The 2025 Metro Advanced Wildland School (MAWS) live fire exercise is set for Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7, in Molalla, Oregon.

MAWS offers Oregon structural firefighters a hands-on opportunity to complete critical wildland performance objectives for Firefighter Type 1, Engine Boss, and Strike Team/Task Force Leader qualifications. Training will include:

• Firing and aerial operations
• Engine drafting and mobile attack
• Weather assessment and its operational impact
• Structure triage and preparation
• Hard line construction
• Crew supervision in live fire environments

Smoke will be visible near Pierce Road and Sawtell Road. Residents are urged not to call 911 unless there is an actual emergency.

Media Invitation – Friday, June 6

Media are welcome to observe Friday’s training operations, which will provide excellent opportunities for photos, video footage, and interviews.

All media personnel entering the fire ground must wear appropriate wildland PPE, including:

• Closed-toe boots
• Nomex pants
• Nomex shirts
• Wildland-rated helmet

To schedule a media tour or for more information, please contact:
Sandy Roberts, Public Information Officer
? 541-979-4096 | 541-917-7734

The Board of Directors for Clackamas Fire District will hold a regular board meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The agenda for the meeting will include the regular monthly division reports and a presentation to Civil Service Commissioner Dille in recognition of his years of service.

If you would like to provide public comments during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, May 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/.

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at Station 5 (9339 SE Causey Ave., Happy Valley, OR 97086). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Clackamas Fire District’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/.

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“The only constant is change”.

It’s a quote that really resonates with us this week as CCFD6 Fire Chief, Kristan Maurer, has resigned her commission and is moving on to other challenges and opportunities. It’s a big adjustment for the District, considering that Kristan has worked here in some capacity for 26 years—starting as a line Firefighter in June of 1999.

In her final memo to District personnel Chief Maurer wrote “I am proud to have served our community and deeply appreciate the ongoing support they provide the District every day,” says Maurer. “I am extremely proud of where this department stands today and humbled to have played a role in its journey.”

Chief of Staff Darryl Hebert, will be the interim Fire Chief. “Chief Maurer’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting legacy on our organization and the community we serve,” says Chief Hebert. “I look forward to working alongside each of you as we continue our mission of protecting and serving our community.” District activities will continue as scheduled, including the annual Open House at Station 63, set for Saturday June 7th from Noon to 3 p.m.
 

On May 7^th, 2025, the Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) was involved in a deadly use-of-force incident. One deputy was placed on Critical Incident Leave. The Washington State Office of Independent Investigations (OII) is investigating the incident. 

Following a deadly use-of-force incident, the Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) will release body-worn camera (BWC) video at the Sheriff's discretion. The release of these videos will be separate from the OII’s investigation. 

In compliance with WAC 139-12, Clark County Sheriff’s Office personnel will not be involved in the independent investigation. CCSO will conduct its administrative investigation/review after the OII investigation is completed.  

The Critical Incident Video can be viewed on the CCSO Body-Worn Camera Page. 

The Sheriff's Office cannot comment on the video release or the ongoing investigation. The video's release is meant to provide visual context of the incident, as CCSO understands it to have occurred, according to the BWC video.  

Please be aware that the video contains graphic imagery, and viewer discretion is strongly advised. 

Following suppression efforts, firefighters encountered a strong sewage ordor. . Corbett Fire notified both Multnomah County Sanitarian and Oregon DEQ

Corbett Fire and AMR will provide over 100 free life jackets in both child and adult sizes at Lewis and Clark Park, Glenn Otto Park in Troutdale, and Dabney Park.  Each location will have signs (English, Spanish, and Russian) explaining how to borrow and return the lifejackets.

May 16, 2025

Media Contact:

Crystal Patterson, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6937/ cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

POLICE RESPOND TO SEVERAL CALLS INVOLVING THREATS OF VIOLENCE

The Corvallis Police Department has arrested three persons threatening violence in a 24-hour period.

At approximately 10:12 a.m. on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, officers were dispatched to the Wal-Mart grocery store for a subject who threatened staff with a fishing pole after being asked to leave the premises. While officers were responding to the complaint, one of the employees was struck in the face. The suspect fled on foot and was not located that day. Officers canvassed the area and shared suspect information with other local businesses. On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, a community member recognized the suspect and called in his location. Keevion Rodrigues, 27, of Eugene, was arrested on charges of Attempted Assault II, Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Disorderly Conduct II.

At approximately 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, officers were dispatched to Fred Meyer for the report of a subject threatening loss prevention staff with a knife after being stopped on suspicion of shoplifting. Prior to officer arrival, the suspect fled on foot. Arriving officers located Isiais Ramirez Rodriguez, 31, of Jefferson, a short distance away and safely took him into custody. Ramirez Rodriguez was booked into the Benton County Jail on charges of Robbery in the First Degree, Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Theft in the Third Degree, Attempted Theft in the Second Degree, Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree, and Identity Theft.

Later that same day, at approximately 7:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to an active menacing call at the Dutch Bros on NW 9^th St. It was reported that a male subject was actively threatening an employee with a knife. Officers arrived on scene and arrested Alexander Wall, 42, of Vancouver, WA, for Menacing and Unlawful Use of a Weapon after investigation revealed he had threatened to stab an employee in the parking lot.

If you feel threatened or witness violent or concerning behavior, call 9-1-1 or 541-766-6911 to report to law enforcement.

PRESS RELEASE 2

A25-10969

SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

MAY 15, 2025

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office Detectives have arrested a second juvenile suspect related to the shooting incident that occurred in the 1800 block of West Side Hwy on May 9, 2025.  This suspect was booked into Cowlitz County Juvenile Detention on charges of Assault 1^st Degree and Drive-By Shooting.

This investigation is ongoing – no further details are available for release at this time.

The Sheriff’s Office requests anyone with information about this incident to call Detective Kris Moore at 360-577-3092, reference case A25-10969.

Gresham, Ore.— Shortly after 1:30 a.m. on April 27, Gresham Police responded to a shooting inside an apartment in the 4700 block of SW 11th St.  Multiple shots went through walls into a neighboring apartment, fatally wounding 13-year-old Liam Spahnle-Bailey.  Spahnle-Bailey attended Rowe Middle School and planned to go on a snowboarding trip with his father on the day of the shooting.  Another person who was struck by gunfire was transported to a local hospital.  They have since been released from the hospital.

Gresham detectives have been leading the investigation into the shooting, assisted by detectives from the East County Major Crimes Team.  Investigators have identified three suspects involved in the murder of Spahnle-Bailey and obtained warrants for their arrest.  “Since the shooting, our officers, detectives and law enforcement partners have worked tirelessly to identify the individuals responsible for Liam’s death.  We now need the community’s help to find them and bring them to justice,” said Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg.  Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said, “Our office is dedicated to obtaining justice for the victim and his family.”

Police are asking for assistance from the public locating the following individuals: 

• Anthony C. Hunter Jr.

  Age 20, 5’9” tall, 150 pounds

• Xavier Hirsch

  Age 20, 6’1” tall, 140 pounds

• Terrell Coy

  Age 16, 5’9” tall, 165 pounds

Hunter, Hirsch, and Coy are all wanted for Murder in the Second Degree and additional crimes.  They should be considered armed and dangerous.  Anyone who sees them should call 911. 

Anyone with information about their location can contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Martin Daly at Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov.

RELEASE DATE: May 15, 2025
CASE NUMBER: 23-52228

Gresham, Ore. — Traffic investigators have identified a person of interest connected to a serious hit-and-run crash that occurred on New Year’s Eve 2023 in Gresham. Investigators are asking for the public’s assistance with locating Salomon Martinez Gonzalez, 35, formerly of Gresham.

As previously reported, on Dec. 31, 2023, at approximately 10:30 p.m., officers and medical personnel responded to a collision involving a red Chevy Sonic and a motorcycle at SE Division St. and SE 202nd Ave. The driver of the Sonic rear-ended the motorcycle, knocking the rider to the ground, then ran over the victim before fleeing the scene. The rider was hospitalized in critical condition and remained in the hospital for over a month.

Gresham Police have remained in contact with the victim’s family throughout the investigation. With their support, investigators are now releasing a video of the crash, hoping it will generate renewed public interest and assist in locating the person of interest.

A receipt from a local liquor store was found in the suspect vehicle, and investigators obtained surveillance footage of a man making a purchase shortly before the crash. That individual has now been identified as Salomon Martinez Gonzalez. He unexpectedly abandoned his apartment just days after the incident and may have fled the state or country.

“We are urging anyone who knows Salomon’s whereabouts to come forward,” said Officer Adam Oblack, the lead investigator on the case. “This case has deeply impacted the victim and his family. Identifying Salomon is a step forward, but we need help from the community—and possibly the online community—if he has fled the area.”

If you have any information about Salomon Martinez Gonzalez or his current location, please contact Officer Oblack at lack@greshamoregon.gov">adam.oblack@greshamoregon.gov or call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503.618.2719.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crimestoppers of Oregon at www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or via their mobile app.

###30###

RELEASE DATE:               May 14, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-19228
 

Gresham, Ore. — Gresham Police detectives have arrested two 16-year-olds in connection with the shooting that occurred early Tuesday morning in the 3500 block of SE Richey Rd.

Just before 4:00 a.m., on May 13, officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they located shell casings in the street and a nearby residence that had been struck by bullets. No injuries were found at the scene.

A short time later, a local hospital notified police that an individual with a gunshot wound had arrived in a private vehicle. That vehicle, a silver 2009 Subaru Impreza with Oregon license plate 737LQM, left the hospital before officers could make contact. Investigators have since determined the Subaru was reported stolen. The vehicle may have a black wheel on the rear driver’s side. The individual remains in critical condition.

Following an investigation, the two 16-year-old suspects were taken into custody and lodged at the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Center. Both face multiple charges, including:

• Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (8 counts)
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Conspiracy

Detectives believe these incidents are connected, and the investigation remains ongoing.

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

###30###

A Troutdale man has been arrested for murder in the shooting death of Ahanu Johnson.  Gresham Police found Johnson shot to death in the 2600 block of NE 201^st Ave on May 5th.  Investigators identified 21-year-old Quincy Teklehiamanot as the suspect in Johnson’s death and obtained a warrant for his arrest.  East Metro SWAT arrested Teklehiamanot at a residence in Troutdale early this morning.  Teklehiamanot has been charged with Murder in the Second Degree. 

Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact Detective Tyson Conroy at oy@GreshamOregon.gov">Tyson.Conroy@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Isaac Hibbs at bs@GreshamOregon.gov">Isaac.Hibbs@GreshamOregon.gov.

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police are investigating an overnight traffic crash that left one person dead.  Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on W Powell Blvd near NW Bryn Mawr Way shortly after 11 p.m. Tuesday.  The lone occupant of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Officers believe excessive speed was a contributing factor to the crash.  Detours on W Powell Blvd around the crash scene will be in place for several hours. 

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 3500 block of SE Richey Rd just before 4 o’clock Tuesday morning.  Arriving officers found shell casings in the street and a nearby home that had been struck by gunfire.  Officers did not find anyone injured at the scene.  

A short time later, a local hospital reported a person suffering from a gunshot wound had arrived in a private vehicle.  The vehicle, a silver 2009 Subaru Impreza with Oregon license plate 737LQM, left the hospital before officers arrived.  The Subaru may have a black wheel on the left rear tire.  The person who was shot remains in critical condition.  

Investigators believe these incidents are connected.  Anyone with information regarding the shooting or the current location of the Subaru Impreza is asked to contact Gresham Police Detective Huffman at Frederick.Huffman@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Snider at Tim.Snider@GreshamOregon.gov.

The Keizer Police Department will be closing River Rd. N. on Saturday, May 17^th, 2025 for the annual Keizer Iris Festival Parade.

Lockhaven Dr. N. will be closed at 6:45 a.m. to all traffic between River Rd. N. and McClure St. N. to establish the parade staging area.  Parade entries will not be allowed to travel westbound on Lockhaven Dr. N.  Those needing to enter the staging area must take Chemawa Rd. N. to Windsor Island Rd. N., then proceed north to Lockhaven Dr. N. where entry can be made to designated staging points.

River Rd. N. will be closed to all north and southbound traffic starting at 9:45 a.m. from Plymouth Dr. N.E. to Lockhaven Dr. N.  Northbound River Rd. traffic from Salem will be diverted to Cherry Ave. N.E. via Plymouth Dr. N.E.  This traffic will be routed back to the Salem Parkway where they may continue northbound travel via Verda Ln. N.E.  Southbound River Rd. N. traffic from north Keizer will be diverted eastbound onto Lockhaven Dr. N.E.

Before the parade and other events begin, traffic will periodically be allowed to cross River Rd. at Chemawa Rd., Dearborn Ave., and Manbrin Dr. Vehicles will not be allowed to travel north or south on River Rd during this time.

The parade will begin at 10:20 a.m. with a children's parade that proceeds south on River Rd. N. from Lockhaven Dr. and ends at Chemawa Rd. The full parade will begin at Lockhaven Dr. at 10:30 am. The parade will end at the intersection of River Rd. and Glynbrook St. N.  It is expected that River Rd. will begin to re-open around 12.30 p.m. as the end of the parade proceeds southbound on River Rd.

Parade signs advising of the street closures have been posted along River Rd. advising citizens of the forthcoming closure.

For those preparing parade space ahead of time by placing chairs on the sidewalk, please remember to leave an adequate travel path of at least three feet for use by our wheelchair-bound citizens.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department was awarded the Gold Plaque Award from LEXIPOL, a policy management and training program designed to enhance employee knowledge and standardize department procedures. The Gold Plaque is the highest level of achievement awarded by LEXIPOL to agencies that complete daily training and regularly update their policies.

In receiving this award, the Lincoln City Police Department has shown a dedication to updating our policies and procedures, as well as training our employees. It is important for law enforcement agencies to keep up-to-date with the most recent case law, criminal procedures, and ethical standards, and using the LEXIPOL program is one of the ways we keep current in these areas.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to recognize Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn, who spearheads the LEXIPOL program at our department by creating and updating our policies on a regular basis. He is also instrumental in ensuring LCPD employees are completing their training, and our department would not have achieved this award without his dedicated effort.

OUTDOOR GRILLING SAFETY 
 

Grilling season is here and there's nothing like grilling outdoors on nice day. A BBQ or grilling party can be the perfect way to celebrate or bring the neighborhood together. There are many different types of grills and some unique tips for each. For your next cookout, use these tips from the National Fire Protection Association.

• Propane and charcoal grills should ONLY be used outdoors. They should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and overhanging tree branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area. This helps prevent grills from being knocked over and helps prevent burns and other injuries.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and trays below the grill.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using your grill each year. You can do this by applying a light soap and water solution to the outside of the hose. If there is a leak, the gas will cause it to release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, turn off the grill. If the leak does not stop, get it serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If you smell gas while you're cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do NOT move the grill.
• If you use starter fluid with your charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid; always keep it out of the reach of children and pets and keep it away from heat sources.
• When you are finished grilling, let the charcoals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. Do not put hot coals in your garbage bin or another container. This can start a fire.
• Most importantly: NEVER leave your grill unattended.

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 original release indicated a typo for charges

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, shortly before 10:00 a.m., law enforcement personnel from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 3100 block of Tierra Dr NE in Salem after a 911 caller reported hearing gunshots.

Within minutes, deputies arrived on scene and located a 48-year-old male who had sustained gunshot wounds. He was transported to Salem Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office detectives have arrested Emily Smith (27), of Keizer, as the suspect in this investigation. She has been charged with Attempted Murder, along with additional charges. Smith is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Court Annex.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police for their assistance and all deputies and detectives involved for their dedicated investigative work.

All further inquiries will be handled by the Marion County District Attorney's Office.

On Monday May 12^th, 2025 at 9:16 am Officers from the Newport Police Department were dispatched to Walmart on a report of a male subject pointing a firearm at another person.

After an investigation it was determined that 68-year-old Lincoln City resident, Dee Helm, got into a verbal altercation in the Walmart parking lot with another driver over a driving complaint. After exchanging words with the other driver, Helm exited his vehicle and retrieved a handgun from the back of his vehicle, pointing it at the occupants of the other vehicle as they began to drive away. Helm then began following the vehicle, on foot, while still in possession of the firearm. The vehicle Helm was pointing the firearm at was occupied by two adults and two children, ages 2 and 10 months old.

Helm was stopped and detained by Newport Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies, who responded to assist, as he was attempting to leave the parking lot. A search warrant to search Helm’s vehicle was obtained and a firearm was recovered from within. Helm was taken into custody and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the following charges:

Menacing X2

Unlawful Use of a weapon X4

Pointing a firearm at another X4

Reckless Endangering X4

Disorderly Conduct II

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information regarding the case, please contact Officer Grippin of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

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

Update After multiple requests, Chief of Police Shaun Davis will be available for media interviews at 1:00pm today at OCPD - 1234 Linn Ave.  Oregon City

On 05/16/2025 at approximately 5:00am, officers with the Oregon City Police Department and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office responded at an address in the 13300 block of Clairmont Way in Oregon City regarding an incomplete 911 call and subsequent domestic disturbance.  Once on scene, officers encountered an adult male subject involved with the disturbance in the street.  The man was armed with a gun and shot at an officer.  That officer returned fire, and the man subsequently shot himself.  The man was declared deceased at the scene.  No police officers were injured during the incident.

Detectives with the Clackamas County Major Crimes Team are currently investigating in conjunction with the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office.  The officer involved has been placed on critical incident leave, as standard protocol.

 The Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office will release additional information in the coming days, as appropriate.

Update: Animal care specialists continue assessing animal welfare at West Coast Game Park Safari

A complete inventory and forensic assessment of animals is continuing today and seized animals will be transported to appropriate, reputable facilities where they will receive specialized veterinary care. The preplanning for the operation accounted for the relocation of all seized animals.

Veterinarians and staff with the Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Oregon Department of Agriculture evaluated animal welfare on scene. This assessment includes an animal’s physical condition, food quality, water supply, sanitation, enclosure conditions, and care sufficient to preserve their health and well-being.

Animal care has been a primary consideration during the investigation. Teams of veterinary staff evaluated dietary needs of the animals and supplied fresh feed for each species. The Oregon Humane Society purchased food and staff from all agencies are assisting in animal feeding.

During initial assessments on Thursday, May 15, one camel was diagnosed with multiple serious medical conditions and suffering. Onsite veterinary staff determined the animal’s condition was sufficiently grave and treatment or transportation would likely result in death. Unfortunately, humane euthanasia was the appropriate option.

This operation is the result of extensive planning and collaboration with multiple agencies. The delicate and complex nature of the investigation and search warrant operation required significant cooperation between the involved agencies, veterinary professionals, and numerous facilities that are accredited and/or permitted to care for these animals.  

Media: B-Roll Video

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COOS COUNTY, Ore. 15 May 2025 – This morning, May 15, 2025, the Oregon State Police, in coordination with local, state, and federal partners, served multiple search warrants at the West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon.

The search warrants are the result of a lengthy criminal investigation into the facility’s operations. Investigators are searching the property for additional evidence related to the investigation, including animal care and welfare, permitting, licensing, and business practices.

Oregon State Police is working in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Coos County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon Department of Justice, and the IRS Criminal Investigation. Participating agencies provide regulatory oversight or bring specialized expertise in animal care to assist investigators with evaluating evidence gathered during the property search. 

Limited information is available for release during the ongoing criminal investigation. OSP is the primary contact for questions regarding today’s search warrants.
 

The park is closed while police activity is present. Community members and visitors are encouraged to avoid the facility.    

A follow-up news release is planned for Friday, May 16, 2025. 

# # #

  
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. 

Jackson County, Ore. 16 May 2025- On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 10:56 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 25, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound BMW 3S, operated by Justine Castaneda (20) of Medford, was traveling northbound in the fast lane when a northbound Honda Accord, operated by William Clifton Gann (45) of Yreka (CA), approached it from behind at a reported high rate of speed. The BMW attempted to move to the slow lane when it was struck by the Honda causing the Honda to roll and eject it's operator.

The operator of the Honda (Gann), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the BMW (Castaneda) reportedly suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Phoenix Police Department, Jackson County 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.

Jackson County, Ore. 16 May 2025- On Monday, May 12, 2025, at 3:23 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 4, in Jackon County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford F-150, operated by Michael Kevin Kasser (69) of Issaquah (WA), left the lane of travel and struck the trailer of a parked Volvo commercial motor vehicle, occupied by Mohamed A. Baioumy (62) of Morena Valley (CA).

The operator of the Ford (Michael Kasser) and passenger, Linda Elaine Kasser (68) of Issaquah (WA), were declared deceased at the scene.

The occupant of the Volvo (Baioumy) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Cal-Fire, Ashland Fire and Rescue, 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.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. 13 May 2025 – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help in identifying a person involved in the unlawful take and waste of a wild steelhead on the North Umpqua River at John P. Amacher Park in Douglas County. Wild steelhead retention is prohibited on the Umpqua system.

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, a father and son were contacted in the parking lot at Amacher Park. A wild steelhead was later found stashed in bushes where one of the individuals had been fishing. The individuals were not positively identified during the contact and fled the scene before the steelhead was found.
 

They were driving a gray or silver SUV, similar to a Toyota Highlander. They may be from the Springfield area and sometimes fish the Dollar Hole on the Main Umpqua.
 

Anyone with information is asked to call the TIP hotline at 800-452-7888 or contact Senior Trooper Kyle Bachmeier through OSP’s Southern Command Center at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677). Please reference case number SP25-152261. Callers can remain anonymous.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Wallowa County, Ore. 12 May 2025- On Friday, May 9, 2025, at 7:22 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 82, near milepost 43, in Wallowa County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Subaru Impreza, operated by Andrew Victor Singer (50) of Wallowa, crossed the center line and struck a westbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Jeffrey Michael Stein (38) of Elgin, head-on.

The operator of the Subaru (Singer) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Toyota (Stein) suffered reportedly serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Wallowa County Sheriff's Office, Wallowa 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.

Fraudulent Letters Sent to Portland Residents Regarding Illegal Burning

It has been brought to the attention of Portland Fire & Rescue that letters are being mailed to residents within the City of Portland accusing residents of illegal burning on their properties. The letters state that these illegal burning violations could lead to fines of $1500, along with the claim that failure to act may lead to the “involuntary” forfeiture of properties. PF&R wants the community to know that these letters are not official communications from PF&R and have not been sent from our offices.

These letters have the PF&R logo centered at the top of the page rather than the official letterhead of Portland Fire & Rescue. This logo is also present on the envelope used in these mailings in the return address area of the envelope. Along with the use of the logo in place of the official PF&R letterhead, there are a few other errors in these letters. First, the ordinance referenced within the body of the letter addresses tree removal and not illegal burning; second, this same ordinance is cited in reference to the potential of property forfeiture; third, the signature on the letters is not Interim Chief AJ Jackson’s signature; and lastly, PF&R does not have an 800 number used for our communications. The 800 number in the letter directs recipients to an adult content phone line.

Portland Fire & Rescue has not sent out these letters claiming you must contact a toll-free phone number or pay a fee that must be mailed to PF&R, nor has PF&R threatened any property owners with “involuntary” property forfeiture. PF&R would like to remind Portlanders to never provide any financial information over the phone or by mail to an unknown or unverified source.

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A motorcyclist is deceased following a crash in Southeast Portland.

On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at approximately 2:00 p.m., East Precinct officers responded to the area of Southeast 80^th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard on reports of a crash involving a motorcyclist and a van. When they arrived, officers located an adult male motorcyclist suffering from serious injuries. The individual was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the van stayed at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team is responding to investigate. Several blocks of Southeast Powell Boulevard will be closed to traffic during the investigation.  

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attention Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 25-125041.

###PPB###

The Portland Police Bureau has identified and contacted the woman involved in Tuesday morning's incident. The initial investigation suggests that no crime was committed. 

PPB wants to thank the community, but is no longer asking for the public's assistance with this case.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau needs the public’s help in locating a female and a van involved in a possible abduction.

On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at approximately 10:45 a.m., East Precinct officers responded to the 800 block of Southeast 162^nd Avenue on reports of a possible abduction. Officers determined that just before 10:00 a.m., a white van pulled up next to a female who was walking down the street. A person exited the vehicle and approached the female before ushering her into the van and driving off. The vehicle was last seen at 10:01 a.m., driving northbound on Northeast 162^nd Avenue from Northeast Glisan Street.

The vehicle PPB is attempting to locate is a white van with a damaged front and rear bumper. It also has distinctive hubcaps and a broken back window that is taped over. The female was wearing a black or white shirt, a grey jacket, green pants, and a black backpack.

Anyone who spots this female or vehicle, or knows anything about this case, is urged to call 911 immediately and reference case number 25-124871.

Photo description: Van

Photo description: Van

Photo description: Female and van

###PPB###

The man killed in the homicide that occurred in Old Town on Sunday, May 11, 2025, is identified as Froilan Ortiz, 49, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death and they are requesting privacy at this time.

The Oregon State Medical Examiner determined that Ortiz died of homicide by gunshot wound. The investigation is continuing, and no further information is being released at this time.

Photo descriptions: Portrait of Ortiz in gray hat; Oritz poses with a red guitar

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A man died following a shooting on Northwest Naito Parkway in the Old Town Neighborhood, and the case is under investigation by the PPB Homicide Unit.

On Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 7:03 a.m., Portland Police Officers from Central Precinct responded to a report of shots fired at Northwest Naito Parkway near the Steel Bridge. When they arrived, they located a deceased person, believed to be an adult male, in the street.

The suspect or suspects left the scene, and no immediate arrests were made.

Portland Police Homicide Unit Detectives are responding to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, Northwest Naito Parkway is closed both directions between Northwest Everett Street and Northwest Ironside Terrace.

If anyone has information about this case, please contact Detective Calvin Goldring at ing@police.portlandoregon.gov">calvin.goldring@police.portlandoregon.gov , 503-823-0256; or Detective Eric McDaniel at ic.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov">eric.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov 503-823-0833. Please reference case number 25-122918.

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

###PPB###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: May 12, 2025

One in custody after shooting and burglary

Salem, Ore. — Jimmy James Santos of Salem was arrested on May 11 on charges related to a shooting incident and a burglary.

Just after 1:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, officers were called to the scene of a gunshot wound in the 4100 block of Campbell DR SE. The suspect fled the scene before officers arrived. The 37-year-old male victim was transported for medical care with a non‑life‑threatening injury.

At approximately 3:45 p.m., a homeowner in the 4000 block of Cranston ST SE reported returning home to a break-in, with the burglar asleep inside the residence. Officers arrested the burglary suspect, Santos, without incident.

The initial investigation by the Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit determined Santos, who is acquainted with the gunshot victim, was involved in the shooting. Detectives also discovered that the handgun used in the shooting was stolen from the home that Santos burglarized. Several thousand dollars in cash was also taken in the burglary.

Santos was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Attempted murder, second-degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Burglary, first-degree
• Aggravated theft, first-degree
• Theft, first-degree

The 25-year-old Santos faces arraignment proceedings today at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex on the above listed charges, as well as five outstanding warrants in other cases.

# # #

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

At 5:34 A.M. on May 12, 2025 Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a reported fire at Abhiruchi Indian Cuisine at 233 N.E. Chkalov Dr. in Vancouver.  The first arriving fire engine arrived four minutes after dispatch and reported flames coming from the structure, including through the roof.  The fire was contained within 12 minutes of arrival of the first engine company. Five fire engines, three ladder trucks, one squad and two battalion chiefs responded to the fire for a total of 34 personnel working on scene.  Mutual aid was provided by Camas Washougal Fire Department.  The building was unoccupied at the time and no injuries were reported.   The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office. 

On May 15, 2025, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office conducted a child predator sting where investigators used multiple dating applications, social media sites, and other online platforms to pose as underage boys and girls. The people contacted the profiles online and offered to meet a person they believed to be a child for sex. When individuals arrived to meet the child, they were instead contacted by law enforcement and arrested.

During the mission, several individuals immediately terminated their conversations when they realized they were speaking to someone who explicitly provided their specific age and identified as a minor.

The following people were arrested for luring a minor and online sexual corruption of a child:

• Raymi Calla-McFarlane, 24, of Portland
• Karl Bawden, 45, of Hillsboro.
• Glen Guthrie, 65, of Gladstone
• Josue Romero-Lopez, 25, of Beaverton
• David Vichi, 49, of Wallowa

Detectives believe there may be more victims of these individuals.

In early April, investigators with the Hillsboro Police Department began investigating Vichi after an actual minor came forward with concerning information regarding inappropriate contact. This investigation led Sheriff’s Office investigators to include Vichi in this child predator sting.  Anyone with additional information about any of the people is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700.

The Sheriff’s Office regularly conducts undercover operations, both full-scale stings and day-to-day chats, targeting child predators. The Sheriff’s Office receives thousands of child abuse reports each year, and these proactive missions are designed to identify and contact people before they victimize an actual child.

Parents are encouraged to help their children be safe online and to be aware of the websites and mobile applications their kids are using. The Sheriff’s Office provides online safety education for parents and community organizations upon request.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Beaverton Police Department for assisting with the sting.

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 9:42 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a disturbance with a weapon involving a firearm near the 7000 block of NW Abigail Terrace in North Bethany.

911 callers reported hearing a gunshot and people running from the location. Responding deputies contained the area and discovered a man had been shot in the face. The injured person was transported by ambulance to an area hospital.

The shooter surrendered to deputies without incident.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) responded to assist with the investigation. Additional information will be released as the investigation progresses.

If you were a witness to the incident and have not spoken to investigators, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 503-846-2700 and reference case number 50-25-6739.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, at approximately midnight, the Oregon State Police, supervising the AMBER Alert system, worked with investigators from the Sheriff’s Office to initiate an alert.

The alert went statewide and crossed over into the adjoining states of Washington, California, and Idaho. The initial notifications went to all law enforcement agencies, highway road signs controlled by the various Departments of Transportation, and on social media channels. The audible alert tone sent to mobile devices was scheduled to alert at 7:00 a.m., when commuter traffic would be on the roadways with the best visibility.

On Tuesday, May 13, at about 02:21 a.m., a trooper with the Washington State Patrol (WSP) located the stolen Mazda CX-5 at a rest area nine miles east of George, on Interstate 90, in Grant County, Washington. The trooper attempted a traffic stop on the Mazda as the driver returned to I-90, but they fled. A pursuit ensued for seventeen miles heading westbound on I-90.

The 29-year-old driver, Adan Osman Abdi, exited the interstate and slowed enough for the trooper to initiate a pursuit immobilization technique (PIT), successfully stopping the vehicle. With the help of a Grant County Sheriff’s Office deputy, Abdi and the adult passenger, Trayviana Shoulders, were arrested. The children, ages two and three, associated with the AMBER Alert, were safe inside the vehicle and placed in protective custody.

Abdi was charged in Washington State with felony elude and taking a vehicle without permission in the second degree, and a warrant for arrest out of Oregon for two counts of custodial interference in the first-degree.  Shoulders was held on a warrant for arrest out of Oregon for two counts of custodial interference in the first-degree, and for violating the terms of her release agreement. Additional charges may follow.

We are grateful to the Washington State Patrol, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the Moses Lake Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the community for their efforts in resolving this incident. Most importantly, we are relieved that the children were safely located. 

Media Release Update: Abducted Children Located

Early this morning, Washington State Patrol located the stolen Mazda in Grant County, Washington. Trayviana and Adan were arrested. Both children were taken into protective custody and are safe.

Additional information will follow as it becomes available. We would like to thank the Washington State Patrol and the community for their efforts in resolving this incident. 

Update: AMBER Alert Issued for Two Abducted Children

As of 11:57 p.m., in coordination with the Oregon State Police, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office has issued an AMBER ALERT for the two abducted children.

If you have any information about their whereabouts, please call 911 or the AMBER Alert hotline at 503-846-2665.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported kidnapping occurring at the Vista Hills Arms Apartments, located at 3560 SW Vista Drive in the West Slope neighborhood.

Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit responded and determined that 26-year-old Trayviana Shoulders took her two children–3-year-old Zimaya Moore and 2-year-old Michael Qualls–from their legal guardian. Shoulders does not have custody rights, and the children are believed to be in endangered.

Trayviana left the area with the children in a blue 2016 Mazda CX-5, Oregon license plate 423PDT, which was being driven by an unidentified male.  

Zimaya was last seen wearing yellow shirt and pink shorts. Michael was last seen wearing blue shirt and blue shorts.

If you have any information, or if you see the vehicle described, please call 911 or Washington County dispatch at 503-629-0111.

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Sheriff’s Office Foundation, will host the 18^th Annual Washington County K9 Trials at the Hillsboro Stadium, located at 4450 NE Century Blvd, Hillsboro, OR. This fun event offers families an exciting opportunity to learn more about the incredible law enforcement K9 units dedicated to protecting our communities.

Competition events include area search, agility course, suspect apprehension, fastest dog, and handler protection. Gold, silver, and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three dogs in each event based on their fastest times. The overall winner will receive first place based on a point system for each event.

In addition to the thrilling and fast-paced competition, spectators can look forward to the community and vendor fairs, and a meet-and greet with the K9s after the competition. The community and vendor fairs open at 10 a.m., and the K9 competition begins at 11 a.m. 

Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Family and friends of all ages are encouraged to join us in celebrating our dedicated K9 units, but please leave pets at home (service animals are welcome).

For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/K9Trials. 

WOODBURN, OR – The City of Woodburn is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Millican as the new Chief of Police for the Woodburn Police Department. Chief Millican brings more than 27 years of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to public safety, leadership, and community service.

Chief Millican began his career with the Woodburn Police Department in April 1998 as a patrol officer. Chief Millican has held a variety of positions from K9 officer to Acting Chief of Police.  Chief Millican held command positions which included Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Deputy Chief.

In addition to his operational experience, Chief Millican brings strong academic and leadership credentials. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Western Oregon University. He is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (Session 274), the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the International Public Safety Leadership & Ethics program.

Chief Millican is a member of the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association, and serves on the board of the Northwest Accreditation Alliance, underscoring his commitment to professional development and best practices in policing.

“Chief Millican has deep roots in both the department and the Woodburn community. He brings high ethical standards, a strong commitment to diversity, and a demonstrated record of service, leadership, and community engagement,” said Scott Derickson, City Administrator, City of Woodburn. “He is experienced and qualified to lead the department into the future with integrity and vision.”

• Menacing
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
• Interfering with a Police Officer
• Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree

Get ready to walk, bike, roll and celebrate healthy, active living on the open streets of Southwest Portland as Portland Sunday Parkways, Presented by Kaiser Permanente, kicks off the first of four events from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 18.

Join us for our 18th year as founding and presenting sponsor of the city’s biggest family street party, where we encourage neighbors to come out and celebrate good fun and good health. This beloved free community event promises a day of fun-filled activities for all ages along two scenic routes through Southwest Portland: a 2-mile bike, walk or run route and a 3.6-mile walking route connecting Gabriel Park, Spring Garden Park, and Multnomah Village.

“As a health care organization, we know there is a strong link between physical activity and health and mental wellness,” said Wendy Watson, president of Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “Our sponsorship represents our commitment to promote civic pride, support local businesses, and encourage people-powered modes of transportation. Encouraging people to walk, ride and bike Sunday Parkways with friends and family is a great way for everyone to get out, get active and get to know their neighbors, while also allowing us to improve community health."

Interviews Available: 

Media are invited to the Kaiser Permanente “NOURISH” booth in front of Thinker Toys in Multnomah Village (7784 S.W. Capitol Hwy.) from 11 a.m. to noon for interviews with Wendy Watson, President of Kaiser Permanente Northwest. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule or stop by.

Visuals:

• People enjoying fresh produce samples in the NOURISH booth at Multnomah Village. 
• Community members painting a large-scale mural in the Multnomah Village CONNECT booth, supporting mental health. The finished piece will be donated to a local school or nonprofit. 
• Children and adults playing life-size Jenga, Connect Four, and bean bag toss in the PLAY booth at Gabriel Park. 
• Heart-healthy strength training demonstrations at the MOVE booth in Spring Garden Park. 
• Families participating in the popular Kaiser Permanente Sticker Hunt — those who visit all four Kaiser Permanente booths and collect every sticker win a prize. 
• Portlanders walking, biking, and rolling along two beautiful Southwest Portland routes, while enjoying live music, food, and family-friendly fun.​

“Sunday Parkways represents everything that’s great about Portland, said Watson. “Friends and neighbors of all backgrounds interact in ways they may not otherwise, and people of all ages and abilities enjoy moving their bodies in a safe environment. We’re proud to partner with the City as the Founding and Presenting Sponsor of Sunday Parkways for the 18th year and continue providing fun, healthy and memorable experiences for our Portland communities.” 

Save the date for all four day-long celebrations in 2025 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: 

• Sunday, May 18 in Southwest Portland 
• Sunday, June 29 in Northeast Cully 
• Sunday, July 27 in East Portland 
• Sunday, September 14 in Downtown Portland 

During each event, Portland's streets will be transformed into accessible, family-friendly routes closed to car traffic. This creates a safe space for everyone to explore neighborhood greenways, parks and community spaces — while sampling food, enjoying live entertainment, and discovering new ways to move and thrive. 

More Information: Visit kp.org/sundayparkways for route maps and details. 

May 15, 2025

For Immediate Release                                   For  more information:

                                                                                            James Taylor

james@vanportjazzfestival.ccsend.com

Tickets on sale for Portland’s Vanport Jazz Festival!                                                                   

About: Portland’s own Vanport Jazz Festival is August 1-2, 2025. The event is named after the then 2nd largest city in Oregon built to accommodate the World War II ship builders.

Thousands of people, including many African Americans, migrated to Oregon for work. During This time, Portland’s jazz scene was vibrant and alive. Though the city is gone due to a flood, the Vanport Jazz Festival pays homage to this era by hosting a modern-day jazz festival with national-caliber talent and local up and coming artists.  

Where: University of Portland, outdoors, 5000 N. Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR

When: August 1-2, 2025, 6 pm – 9 pm Friday and on Saturday Noon – 9 pm

Artists: (Friday)  Leela James, Jon B  (Saturday)  Norman Brown, Kim Waters, Avery Sunshine, Kayla Waters, Jazmin Ghent

Ticket information: Tickets are general admission or VIP. To purchase:  Vanport Jazz Festival

Vancouver, Wash. – PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center has named Michael Skehan as Chief Operating Officer (COO). He assumes his new role on May 19, 2025.

Known for his highly collaborative and interactive leadership style, Skehan has successfully led numerous projects to increase revenue, reduce operating expenses, drive growth and improve quality and safety during his 20+ years in healthcare.

In his new role, Michael will serve as a member of the hospital’s senior executive team and will focus on clinical excellence, regulatory compliance, operational efficiencies, and leading a LEAN culture.

For the past two years, Michael has served as the Chief Operations Officer/Deputy Director for Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare in Warrenton, Oregon. There, he provided strategic and operational oversight for all clinical operations and business/administrative services.

Prior to that, Michael spent eight years in various leadership roles with a system that is now part of Intermountain Health, most recently as the Chief Operating Officer for Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado, a 410-bed hospital. Michael had direct responsibility for all surgical and procedural services, cancer service line, cardiovascular service line, respiratory services, all ancillary and support services, and a 12-provider surgical practice.

“Michael brings a wealth of healthcare experience and has driven impactful improvements around patient satisfaction, quality and safety, growth and operational effectiveness” shares Cherelle Montanye, Chief Hospital Executive for PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. “I am confident he will align well with our mission of providing quality care to our community.

Skehan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wabash College and  Master of Public Administration from University of San Francisco.

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About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

A fire destroyed a food truck in the early morning hours of May 12th, at approximately 1:00 AM at the 19000 block of 7th Ave in Tumalo.  Bend Fire & Rescue and Deschutes County Sheriffs's Office responded to the incident and found flames coming through the food truck roof.  The fire was quickly extinguished and a fire investigation is currently underway for origin and cause.  At this time the cause of the fire appears to be accidental in nature, but still under investigation.  The food truck was unoccupied at the time and no injuries were reported during fire operations.  The fire did an extensive amount of damage and is considered to be a total loss to the food truck and contents.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

PacifiCorp Opens Lewis River Recreation Sites for the 2025 Summer Season

ARIEL, Wash. (May 16, 2025) —PacifiCorp’s Lewis River recreation parks and sites will be open to the public for the 2025 summer season.

Starting Friday, May 23, 2025, all Lewis River recreation parks and sites will be open. However, Beaver Bay Park and Campground will remain closed for the entire 2025 recreation season due to a park renovation project. Camping opportunities for Summer 2025 are available at Cresap Bay Campground, Cougar Campground and Swift Forest Camp. 

Reservation is also available for designated dispersed shoreline sites on Yale and Swift Reservoirs (boat-in access only). You can review further details on our website.

PacifiCorp does not allow campfires at the dispersed shoreline campsites due to the remote nature of these campsites and the risk of wildfire. Campers are responsible for managing their own sanitation as these sites are primitive with no restroom facilities.

For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, please follow all recreation site rules and watch for changing conditions of reservoir elevations and streamflow. For a full description of the company’s Lewis River recreation sites and amenities, please visit our website.

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving two million customers. The company operates as Rocky Mountain Power in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming and as Pacific Power in California, Oregon and Washington. PacifiCorp provides safe and reliable service through a vast, integrated system of generation and transmission that connects communities as the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power to host customer forum on wildfire prevention

Bend, OR (May 14, 2025) – Pacific Power will host a public forum in Bend on Thursday, May 15 to discuss our efforts to protect customers and communities against the threat of wildfire. During this conversation, company representatives will detail the important steps we take during wildfire season to keep customers and communities safe. This forum is an opportunity to learn about our comprehensive wildfire mitigation plan in Oregon.

Topics of conversation: 

• Our ongoing work to strengthen our system.
• Our advanced weather monitoring capabilities.
• Our enhanced vegetation management practices.
• Our enhanced safety settings for wildfire season.
• Our emergency de-energization procedures during active wildfires.
• How Public Safety Power Shutoffs work – an important tool when wildfire risk makes it necessary to turn off power to ensure customer and community safety.

Event details:

    Thursday, May 15 – 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

    Riverhouse Lodge   

    3075 N Highway 97

    Bend, OR 97703

Livestream:

Webinar Registration - Zoom

ASL and Spanish translation services will be available for this event.

Protecting our customers and communities while providing safe, reliable power is our highest priority. If you have any questions or would like to request a reasonable accommodation to attend this event, please contact us at 1-888-221-7070.

About Pacific Power 

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net. 
 

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Pacific Power to describe wildfire protection efforts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Released photos:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portland, Ore. —On May 15, fire restrictions will go into effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as warmer, drier weather is forecasted around the Pacific Northwest. 

These fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. Starting May 15, the use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns will be prohibited. 

“The number of human-caused fires has only increased over the years,” said BLM Oregon and Washington State Fire Management Officer, Jeff Fedrizzi.  

Grasses and other fuels dry out quickly in the summer months, making them highly susceptible to catching fire. It just takes one spark. 

“Our first responders, local communities, and public lands will be safer if everyone follows fire restrictions and practices fire safety while out on public lands,” he continued. 

Those who violate the prohibition may be fined up to $100,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 12 months. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression. 

For the complete order and more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire. 

May is also ‘Wildfire Awareness Month’. Visit NIFC.GOV for wildfire prevention tips: https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/fire-prevention-education-mitigation/wildfire-prevention. 

To learn more about fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, please see https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/state-info/oregon-washington/careers. 

-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.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – On May 17, 2025, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site will launch a new self-guided tour to connect dog owners to local history in Vancouver, Washington.

Explore Fort Vancouver with Your Pup on the New BARK Ranger Tour!

Dogs have been a part of Fort Vancouver’s story from the very beginning. They were not only companions but also working animals for Indigenous peoples, fur traders, soldiers, and settlers. Now, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is celebrating that legacy with a fun new way for you and your furry friend to explore the park together.

Starting May 17, bring your dog and enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds designed for pups and their people. The tour begins at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, where you can take a handout that includes:

• A park map with five marked stops.
• Easy questions to answer along the way.
• A certificate to celebrate your adventure.

How It Works

Each stop on the map has a QR code. Scan the code to read a short story about the role of dogs in the park’s history. Then, answer the related question in your handout. Complete the first six questions (that’s only three stops!) and you’ll earn your certificate.

Along the way, you’ll learn about some of the amazing dogs that have left their paw prints on Fort Vancouver’s past.

Bonus for Dog Lovers

Want a special souvenir? The Friends of Fort Vancouver are offering unique BARK Ranger dog tags for sale in their bookstore, also located at the Visitor Center.

Whether you're a history buff, a dog lover, or just looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors with your pup, this tour is a great way to connect with the past while making new memories.

“We’re excited to launch this new tour for our visitors and their four-legged friends,” said Park Ranger Ada Gonzalez. “We know how much people enjoy bringing their pets to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and we hope this will be a fun, meaningful way for them to connect with the park’s history. It’s also a great opportunity to share tips on how to explore the site safely and responsibly with dogs.”

The BARK Ranger program is a nationwide National Park Service program that encourages park visitors to follow the “BARK” rules:

• Bag and dispose of your pet’s waste in trash cans located throughout the park.
• Always leash your pet.
• Respect wildlife.
• Know where you can go.

In addition to learning historical stories of dogs at Fort Vancouver and Vancouver Barracks, tour participants will learn how to follow these rules at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Learn more about how to follow the BARK Ranger rules at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site at https://go.nps.gov/PetsAtFOVA.

BARK Ranger Ambassador Caroline Krause states, “Since I first learned about the BARK Ranger program – which started at Olympic National Park in 2016 and has now spread to parks all over the country – I have taken my pups Harley Quinn and Louis on numerous adventures to explore and enjoy each site responsibly. We come to Fort Vancouver every week to walk the grounds. As a volunteer and official BARK Ambassador, I have supported the development of the new self-guided tour. This park is perfect for dogs and their humans to enjoy the paths and trails together on leash, so I’m sure it’s going to be a big hit!”

The Friends of Fort Vancouver’s bookstore at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center sells an assortment of dog-related books and handmade accessories like bandannas and blankets. Don’t forget you can purchase a BARK Ranger tag to remember your visit!

What: Launch of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site BARK Ranger self-guided tour.
When: Saturday, May 17, 11 am to 1 pm.
Where: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, 1501 Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661
Cost: The self-guided tour handout and certificate are free. BARK Ranger dog tags are sold by the Friends of Fort Vancouver for $4.95.

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will host the state’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 26, at the Oregon World War II Memorial, located on the grounds of the Oregon State Capitol in Salem (intersection of Cottage and Court Street NE).

This solemn event brings together Oregonians from across the state to remember and reflect on the sacrifices of our nation’s fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice service to the United States. Held in the heart of Oregon’s capital, the ceremony provides a space for community members, families, veterans, and civic leaders to pay tribute to those who served and never returned home.

The event will feature remarks from ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, along with other veteran leaders, state officials, and honored guests. The program will include ceremonial elements such as the national anthem, presentation of colors, and a moment of silence.

“Memorial Day is a sacred day of remembrance — a time to reflect on the cost of our freedoms and to honor the courage and selflessness of those who laid down their lives in service to our country,” said Dr. Daniels. “We invite all Oregonians to join us in this moment of unity and gratitude.”

This year’s Memorial Day ceremony holds the significance of falling on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The Oregon World War II Memorial, dedicated in 2014, honors the more than 3,700 Oregonians who lost their lives during WWII.

Limited seating will be available. Attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs or blankets for the park setting. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as the ceremony will take place rain or shine.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed beginning at 11 a.m. on ODVA’s Facebook page at facebook.com/odvavet and YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/UCAQVavs9KmvDeJ42ySFtY8A.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

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PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for May 20, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.

The next Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee meeting is scheduled for August 19, 2025, at 1:30pm.

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve March 26, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Jeffrey Borton, DPSST No. 66135; Lincoln County Community Corrections

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Informational Only

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – June 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

2025 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled before the end of the year! The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com

• One member who is a sheriff recommended to the Governor by the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association
• One member representing Non-Management Law Enforcement 
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One individual who is a member of the OSFFC recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by June 20, 2025.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• Public Member

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing persons who monitor alarms
• One person who is a private investigator licensed under ORS 703.430, and is recommended by the Oregon State Bar (will also serve on the PI Sub-Committee upon appointment)
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing recommended by and representing the Oregon State Police
• One member recommended by and representing the EMS and TSP of the OHA

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

Salem, Oregon – As third and fourth graders at Forest Grove Community School began a project studying Oregon, their teachers discovered a wonderful teaching tool: the Oregon Cultural Trust’s Celebrate Oregon! artwork. Now each of the 52 students is recreating a section of the artwork to build a new school mural that will be showcased at a “Celebration of Learning” on Tuesday, May 27.

Created by artist Liza Mana Burns, the Celebrate Oregon! artwork is a rich tapestry of Oregon geography into which are woven 127 symbols depicting the state’s history, people and diverse cultural traditions. An interactive narrative shares the stories behind each of the symbols.

Media please note: Mana Burns will visit the school from 1:40 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, to meet the students and view the mural.

“We explored the Celebrate Oregon! artwork as a part of a project related to Oregon State,” said teacher Erin Morgan. “It’s so lovely watching them put their own personality into the art and listening to them exchange knowledge about their symbols. I can see how exploring this artwork has elevated kids' identity as Oregonians."  

Quotes from the students, who range in age from eight to 10, reveal their engagement and perspectives on the project:

"My square has a suitcase and is about how people came to Oregon from different places. My grandparents came from Mexico!"

"I hadn't heard of any of the symbols on my square before I started drawing! It's cool that all of this is about our state."

"My favorite symbol is the word bubble because it reminds me of talking to my friends."

"I like that my square includes a Native American symbol, like when we learned about Oregon's tribes last year."

"This is the first time I've made a mural. I can't believe how many details it has. It must have taken the artist so long to make!"

Students were invited to select the section of the artwork they wished to recreate and are now coloring it on eight-by-eight cardstock squares. When completed, they will be combined to create the new school mural.

During the May 27 event classrooms will be open for students to give their families tours of the mural and their "Oregon Visitor Center," which features other exhibits about geography and culture across the state. This event is free and open to community members.

Forest Grove Community School, a public charter school, was founded in 2007 to provide an educational alternative to families looking for a small school that offered student-centered education focused on project-based, experiential learning.

The Celebrate Oregon! artwork was created in 2021 to mark the Cultural Trust’s 20^th anniversary. It is featured on Oregon’s cultural license plate, whose proceeds support promotion of the Cultural Tax Credit. Oregonians who participate in the Cultural Tax Credit add to a pool of funds that supports annual grants to cultural nonprofits and partner agencies, in addition to growing the Trust’s permanent fund – now valued at approximately $47 million.

# # #

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

Salem – Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has selected Sean O’Day as acting director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS).

O’Day is currently the deputy director for DCBS, the state’s largest consumer and worker protection and business regulatory agency. He will replace Andrew R. Stolfi, who was recently confirmed by the Oregon State Senate to be the director of the Oregon Employment Department.

Stolfi is presently serving as both the DCBS director and the Oregon insurance commissioner. TK Keen, the deputy insurance commissioner and administrator of DCBS’ Division of Financial Regulation, will take on the duties as acting insurance commissioner.

“Sean and TK are both true public servants with decades of experience leading teams and their knowledge of the people and issues that make up DCBS will be invaluable during this time of transition,” Stolfi said. “They have also demonstrated time and again their commitment to consumer and worker protection, which is at the core of our mission. Oregonians are in great hands moving forward in this interim period.”

O’Day has been the DCBS deputy director since March 2023. He previously served as the deputy director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. He has more than two decades of public service in Oregon and has worked at a variety of government entities providing regulatory and business services. Before he joined Veterans’ Affairs in 2020, Sean served as the executive director of Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments, general counsel for the League of Oregon Cities, deputy city attorney and deputy city manager for Salem, deputy legal counsel to the Office of the Governor, and law clerk to the chief justice of the Oregon Supreme Court.

O’Day also serves as a reserve judge advocate in the United States Army Reserve. He is the commander of the 6th Legal Operations Detachment (LOD), a unit comprised of highly trained legal professionals who provide on-demand legal services and operational support across the globe. A combat veteran, he has served two tours of duty in the Middle East and also participated in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

He received his law degree from the Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College in Portland, and his bachelor’s degree from Central Washington University. He also has a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College.

“I am honored to serve as the acting DCBS director,” O’Day said. “Oregon has long been a leader in worker and consumer protection, and I am excited to continue working with our talented employees and agency partners in service to the people of Oregon.”

Keen started as administrator of the Division of Financial Regulation in August 2020 and has been the deputy insurance commissioner since 2014. He previously served in the division as deputy administrator (December 2014 to August 2020) and senior policy advisor (October 2012 to December 2014). 

Keen has led several National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ working groups on topics such as pharmacy benefit manager regulation and consumer protection on mandatory arbitration clauses. He has also led national groups that focused on consumer protections for financial product offerings. 

Before joining the division, he practiced law as a sole practitioner in Washington, focusing on employment law cases. During law school at Lewis & Clark College, he worked for the Oregon Department of Justice, the Hon. Elizabeth L. Perris of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, and the Portland State University Office of General Counsel.

"It is an honor to serve as acting insurance commissioner. I look forward to continuing the approach of protecting consumers, dealing with the complex issues around wildfires and insurance, and ensuring we have stable and healthy insurance markets statewide,” Keen said. “Also, we will continue to be leaders on innovation, transparency, and responsive regulation." 

O’Day and Keen will start in their roles June 23.

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) is preparing to conduct an open recruitment for the next director of DCBS this summer. At the close of the recruitment process, Gov. Kotek will nominate the DCBS director, who is subject to state Senate confirmation. The Oregon insurance commissioner falls under DCBS and is appointed by the DCBS director.

DCBS and the insurance commissioner play an important role in the state’s regulatory landscape and are responsible for overseeing the insurance industry and protecting consumers.

###

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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Nickolas James Beaumont, died shortly after midnight May 14, 2025. Beaumont was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at the facility. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Beaumont entered DOC custody on December 13, 2018, from Klamath County with an anticipated release date of November 8, 2026. Beaumont was 29 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

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

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Tillamook State Forest, Ore.—More than 60 adults in custody (AICs) capped off a week of classroom wildland fire training with a hands-on field day at South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC) in the middle of the Tillamook State Forest this week.

The AICs rotated between four stations to demonstrate and improve critical skills they will use this summer when many of the 10-man crews deploy to battle wildfires and help protect people, buildings and forests, mainly in western Oregon. The training was conducted by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) staff from SFFC, Tillamook and Forest Grove offices.

The four stations included: digging handline and proper use of wildland firefighting hand tools, laying hose and using a Mark 3 water pump, mop-up operations on the perimeter of a fire, and deployment of a personal emergency fire shelter.

“This group of 60 finished the initial entry level training course today,” said Dana Turner, Oregon Department of Forestry’s assistant camp manager. “Another 60 finished the refresher training course, called RT-130. So, all together we will have approximately 120 AICs ready for fire season.”

Those 120 AICs account for nearly everyone currently assigned to the camp. South Fork Forest Camp, which is jointly operated and funded by the Oregon Departments of Corrections and Forestry, is the only institution of its kind in Oregon and has been going strong for 74 years. To get to this fenceless minimum-security facility, AICs go through a selection committee while they are at other correctional institutions and need to have less than five years remaining on their sentence. The camp’s maximum capacity is 200.

In addition to firefighting, South Fork AICs work hard in Oregon’s state forests helping ODF with reforestation, maintenance on trails and campgrounds, road maintenance, construction projects, trash clean up and many other activities. However, it’s fire season many of the AICs look forward to.

“Being on a hand crew fighting a fire is a lot of work but very rewarding,” said Flynn Lovejoy, an AIC at the camp who is ready for his second fire season. “Whether it’s initial attack or mopping up while preforming well with your crew, it’s something you are proud of. Just knowing you are making a difference.”

South Fork crews did make a difference during last year’s fire season as they responded to 18 incidents and contributed 1,500 man-days fighting wildfires. 

Making a difference for the men who complete their sentences is also an important goal of camp staff.

“The skills and experience they get here help them now and in the future,” said Turner. “They can tell their kids they are firefighters and not just doing time. Then when they leave here, they have more opportunities. For example, we have multiple former AICs that went through South Fork that are working for ODF this year as seasonal firefighters. Others are also set up for success in finding jobs in other companies that use the skills they get here.”

And it’s not just the practical skills taught at South Fork, but the soft skills that help former AICs have a successful future.

“They have a unique opportunity to aid people in need and rebuild a connection to community while here,” said Jason Hanson, DOC superintendent of SFFC and the Columbia River Correctional Facility. “Whether it’s protecting communities from wildfire or using their CPR skills to help someone having a medical emergency in the forest, this sets the stage for them to not only leave institutional life but leave and reestablish successfully back in their communities.”

Hanson contributes SFFC’s success to both departments’ people.

“We have a great partnership here,” said Hanson. “The relationship between both departments is strong, as we strive to understand each other’s mission and work together all for the benefit of setting up the AICs for success after they leave here.”

For more on SFFC see: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/forestbenefits/pages/rehabilitation.aspx

https://www.oregon.gov/doc/about/pages/prison-locations.aspx

For wildfire prevention information see:

https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/fireprevention.aspx

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for eastern Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 22 at the WorkSource Oregon, 408 SE 7th Street in Pendleton. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division and agency updates
• HCP status
• Compliance Monitoring Project update
• Operator of the Year Program revisions
• All streams crossing technical guidance review & technical guidance update

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

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for southwest Oregon will meet at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20 at the ODF Office, 87950 Territorial Hwy in Veneta. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division and agency updates
• HCP status
• Operator of the Year Program revisions
• Compliance Monitoring Project update
• All streams crossing technical guidance review & technical guidance update

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

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for northwest Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 16 at in the Clatsop Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division and agency updates
• HCP status
• Compliance Monitoring Project update
• Operator of the Year Program revisions
• All streams crossing technical guidance review & technical guidance update

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

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire prevention experts are urging everyone to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring. There have already been 32 escaped debris burns reported on ODF-protected land in 2025, nearly double the amount compared to this time last year. The average size of a spring escaped debris burn is about one acre, or the size of a football field, and generally requires suppression from the local fire protection agency.

Over seventy-five percent of wildfires in Oregon are human caused, with escaped debris burns topping the list. With forecasters becoming increasingly confident that this season will be hotter and drier than normal, now is the time to practice wildfire prevention. As grass and vegetation begin to dry out, the risk of a fire creeping away from a debris burn pile increases. Make sure to weigh your options and have all of the fire prevention tools in place before lighting the burn pile or incinerator.

Besides burning, preferable options for brush removal include composting or recycling. Check with your local disposal company for recycling options.  

But if burning now is the only option to dispose of yard debris, fire prevention specialists ask people to follow safe burning practices.

• Call before you burn—Regulations vary by location. Call your local district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit.
   
• Know the weather—Burn early in the day and never burn on windy days, because fires can spread out of control more easily.
   
• Always have water and fire tools nearby—When burning, have a shovel and charged water hose or a bucket of water on hand to put out the fire.
   
• Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile—Make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.
   
• Keep burn piles small—Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, maximum of four feet by four feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.
   
• Burn only yard debris—State laws prohibit burning materials, treated wood or trash that create dense smoke or noxious odors.
   
• Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.
   
• Stay with the fire from start to finish—NEVER leave your debris burn unattended. State law requires monitoring debris burn piles at all times, until it is out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.
   
• Put the fire out cold/completely—Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cool to the touch.
   
• Recheck burn piles—Return to the burn site periodically over several weeks to check for heat or smoke and refrain from adding new yard debris on top of old ashes. Burn piles can retain heat for several weeks and rekindle when the weather warms up and winds blow.
   
• Costs of run-away debris burns—State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as the damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.

As the summer fire season quickly approaches, consider putting off any burning until next fall or winter, when conditions are more favorable. Just cover a portion of the pile with plastic, such as a tarp, to keep dry until you decide to burn. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and prevent spring holdover fires.

More tips on wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website. Find public use restrictions for Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands before your burn.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Darryn “Codia” Vargas, age 16, a child in foster care who went missing from Eugene on May 6. Codia is believed to be in danger.

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

Codia is suspected to be in the Portland area.

Name: Darryn “Codia” Vargas
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: Sept. 26, 2008
Height: 5-foot-6
Weight: 120 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Codia has a septum piercing and often wears a chain necklace and a red velvet, long sleeved, button up shirt.
Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Case #25-07270
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2035940

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

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

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Salem, Ore. -- If you missed the April 15 tax filing deadline you can still file your taxes. There is no penalty for filing if you are due refund money. In fact, now is an excellent time to get free tax filing help because, now that the big rush is over, there are many open appointments.  

Thanks to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Tax Infrastructure Grant Program free tax filing help is available through mid-October. The program funds community organizations throughout the state to offer free tax filing help for people who qualify. See below to pick the best location for free tax help.

Some taxpayers choose not to file a return because they don't earn enough to be required to file. But if you don’t file, you may miss out on receiving money back due to potential refundable tax credits. Examples include the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Kids Credit.

Help is also available to anyone who may have received a letter from the Department of Revenue or the Internal Revenue Service about their tax filing. Letters asking to validate the taxpayer or a child’s ID are common and can be confusing. Taxpayers may also receive letters about a change to their return or an amount owed. Free tax filing organizations can help with the appropriate response to these letters, including translating them if necessary.

The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds culturally relevant or culturally specific organizations, Tribal governments and rural community organizations to help educate and provide free tax filing help for people with low incomes. Help is available in multiple languages. The grant money is also used to increase the number of certified tax preparers in Oregon.

Where to get free help filing taxes

• 211Info: Call 2-1-1 or email help@211info.org for a list of all the free tax filing help.

• Oregon State University (OSU); vita@oregonstate.edu; 541-737-3371; Corvallis, Bend, Eugene OSU VITA website: https://business.oregonstate.edu/volunteer-income-tax-assistance  
• Western Oregon University (WOU); wouvita@wou.edu; 503-751-4132; Monmouth, Independence, Falls City; WOU VITA website: https://wou.edu/business-economics/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.
• CASH Oregon: info@Cashoregon.org; 503-243-7765; Portland, Beaverton, Gresham
• Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO); TAX@irco.org; 971-427-3993; Portland, Ontario       
• Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos; biec@Centrodspc.org">debbiec@Centrodspc.org; 503-982-0243; Woodburn        
• Latino Community Association; info@latinocommunityassociation.org;

541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond               

• Moneywise Oregon; dan@moneywiseoregon.org; 541-670-5054; Coos Bay, Roseburg

# # #

(Salem, OR) – Older Americans Month is celebrated every May and is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of older Americans and reaffirm commitments to meeting the needs of older adults in our communities. The 2025 Older Americans Month theme is Flip the Script on Aging, which focuses on shifting common perceptions of aging and explores ways people stay active and engaged in their communities as they age. 

“We must challenge the outdated narratives that can limit older adults' potential, recognize the many contributions being made by older adults, and support opportunities for people to thrive in their communities in ways that are meaningful to them,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D., Director of the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) within the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

As Gov. Tina Kotek’s proclamation of Older Americans Month highlights, “Older Oregonians continue to be active, engaged, and influential members of our community, participating in volunteer activities, mentoring, and contributing to the workforce.” The proclamation also notes that Oregon is home to more than 1.5 million people over the age of 50, and people over age 65 make up more than 19 percent of the state's population. Estimates indicate that by 2034 there will be more people 65 and over than under 18. ODHS is looking ahead to ensure this growing population has and continues to have equitable access to programs that support and promote independence, health and safety, food security, employment, and connection through several initiatives. Recent accomplishments include:

• Implementation of several projects to provide free technology to help reduce social isolation and loneliness. Eligible older adults and people with disabilities have been offered opportunities to receive free laptops, GrandPads, iPads and tablets to foster social connection such as video calls with friends, online cooking and exercise classes and listening to music. To date, hundreds of older adults and adults with disabilities have accessed and benefitted from these programs.
   
• Recruitment efforts to help grow the in-home care provider workforce, hire more case managers and encourage people to become licensed adult foster home providers. These valuable in-home and community-based service roles help older adults and people with disabilities maintain independence and navigate resources available to them.
   
• Regular meetings with the LGBTQIA2S+ Subcommittee of the Governor’s Commission on Senior Services to improve support of older adults who are part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This committee was formed as a result of Senate Bill 99 (2023).
   
• Implementation of Oregon Project Independence - Medicaid (OPI-M) as an addition to the state’s traditional OPI program to give more options for support so people can remain in their own homes. OPI-M uses Medicaid funds to pay for services, expanding access to more Oregonians. It also offers more service hours than some other in-home care options and there is no estate recovery requirement for people in this program. OPI-M has successfully approved more than 1,000 individuals since its launch, addressing the needs of many Oregonians who were previously on a waitlist for services or lacked other care options.
   
• Continued support for home-delivered meals and congregate meal sites throughout Oregon to provide opportunities for older adults to connect with others in their community. In 2024, the federally funded Senior Nutrition Program supplied healthy home-delivered and congregate setting meals for more than 23,000 people aged 60 and older. To find a meal site, contact the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or visit https://adrcoforegon.org.
   
• Increasing outreach on Adult Protective Services ensuring older adults and their family and friends know about elder abuse and how to report potential abuse.

Resources:

People who need help with long-term care needs, food programs or other supports can contact their local APD office or office serving older adults and people with disabilities. A list of office locations and contact information is available on the ODHS office finder web page. 

Free help and resource information is also available through the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Oregon. Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit the ADRC website at https://adrcoforegon.org.

About the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities:

APD’s vision is to ensure Oregon’s older adults, people with disabilities and their families experience person-centered services, supports and early interventions that are innovative and help maintain independence, promote safety, wellbeing, honor choice, respect cultural preferences, and uphold dignity.

Salem, OR— Oregonians who filed for an extension instead of filing their federal and state income taxes last month should go ahead file their tax year 2024 returns as soon as they can, the Oregon Department of Revenue said this week.

“The extension deadline is October 15, but for a lot of people who sought an extension just before the April 15 deadline there’s no reason to wait until the fall,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Department of Revenue’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division.

So far in 2025, the department has processed almost 2 million of an expected 2.2 million returns. That leaves approximately 200,000 Oregon taxpayers who still need to file their tax year 2024 returns.

Several free filing options and in person tax assistance remain available during the summer months, including Direct File Oregon.

People file for an extension for all kinds of reasons. Some are waiting on additional information or documents. Others are experiencing hardship in the days before the deadline and have to direct their attention elsewhere. Some people just put it off or forget.

“Whatever the reason, as soon as they have what they need, they should file,” Denison said. Some people may not have filed because they didn’t have money to pay what they owe, but an extension to file is not an extension to pay any tax owed. Those who didn’t file and haven’t paid are only racking up additional late payment penalties and interest by waiting.

“Even if they can’t pay the full amount they owe, they should pay what they can as soon as they can,” Denison said. For those who can’t pay all they owe, filing a return offers them the opportunity to set up a payment plan with the state.

For some taxpayers, filing can mean receiving a refund.

“Some tax situations are complex and require extra time—even months—to prepare, but most aren’t,” Denison said. “Filing as soon as you can makes good sense. It can save money and provide some peace of mind.”

Taxpayers with questions can 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), the department accepts all relay calls.
 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 14, 2025

CONTACT INFORMATION:
umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 4.7% in April

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.7% in April and 4.6% in March, after rising gradually over the past year from 4.1% in April 2024. Oregon’s 4.7% unemployment rate was 1.1 percentage points higher than the recent low of 3.6% during spring 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in both March and April.

In April, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 1,200 jobs, following a revised gain of 6,200 jobs in March. April’s gains were largest in leisure and hospitality (+3,300 jobs) and professional and business services (+900). Declines were largest in transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-1,300 jobs) and other services          (-600). None of the other major industries had a change of more than 400 jobs.

Leisure and hospitality had a larger-than-expected increase in seasonal hiring in April, adding 3,300 jobs. The April jobs total of 212,700 was 5,600 jobs, or 2.7%, above its average during the prior two years. Its component industry arts, entertainment, and recreation added 500 jobs in April, to reach a record high of 30,200. During the past two years it has expanded consistently. Meanwhile, the other component industry—accommodation and food services—is estimated to have grown rapidly this year, adding 2,800 jobs in April and 5,000 jobs so far this year, following slight declines over the prior two years.

Construction employment slipped by 200 jobs in April to a total of 114,600 jobs, continuing a gradual downward trend. Since reaching a peak of 119,000 jobs in June 2023 construction has shed 4,400 jobs, or -3.7%.

Transportation, warehousing, and utilities cut 1,300 jobs in April, following a gradual gain of nearly the same amount during the prior 12 months. Most of the April loss occurred in couriers and messengers which cut 800 jobs in April and shed 1,200 jobs since April 2024.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the April county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, May 20, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for May on Wednesday, June 18.

May 16, 2025

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

Oregon overdose deaths are down, CDC data shows

OHA continues to focus on programs with proven impact to get at root causes of addiction, address behavioral health needs across Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon’s overdose deaths decreased 22% between December 2023 and December 2024, a trend similar to that experienced nationwide, according to provisional Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data.

“It is heartening to see this decrease in deaths due to overdose in Oregon, but the total still remains far too high, impacting families and communities across our state,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at the OHA Public Health Division. “We must continue to work together to keep people safe and build treatment and recovery supports for people struggling with substance use disorder.”

The count is still much higher than pre-pandemic years, with 1,480 deaths within that one-year time span, CDC data show. The preliminary data signify a decrease in fatal and nonfatal overdoses in Oregon from 2023 to 2024.

The decreasing trend is likely due to a combination of factors, including strengthened substance use treatment infrastructure, naloxone distribution and education, prevention programs, and changes in the illicit drug supply with less fentanyl overall.  This is good news, officials say, but work to reduce drug use and overdose is as important as ever.

While a decrease in overdose deaths is notable, Oregon’s substance use and overdose rates represent an ongoing and complex public health crisis created by multiple social, economic and systemic factors. Implementing a population health approach includes both upstream and downstream initiatives that can decrease substance use initiation and promote improved quality of life and well-being among Oregonians.

Some specific investments that are contributing to Oregon’s decrease in overdoses include the following:

Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse

• The Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse works with any organization that wants support in responding to the fentanyl crisis. The Clearinghouses began with six agencies and now works with more than 380 agencies across the state. All these agencies are locally oriented. These partnerships are with diverse groups that meet members of the community in a wide range of settings and circumstances.

Opioid treatment programs

• Oregon has been steadily increasing the availability of opioid treatment programs (OTPs). There are 27 full-service OTPs in Oregon, two OTP medication units, and four mobile OTP units. This includes nine new OTP sites over the last biennium.
• Oregon also expanded telehealth for medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and removed of prior authorizations for MOUD.

Residential treatment capacity

• In June 2024, OHA published a landmark study on the state’s residential treatment capacity. That study has been the foundation for immediate and long-term investments to increase residential capacity across the state. Currently, 260 beds dedicated to SUD treatment are in development and 41 beds dedicated to withdrawal management are in development.

Behavioral Health Regional Networks (BHRNs)

• BHRNs are funded through cannabis tax revenue, Drug Treatment and Recovery Services Funds. Between 2022 and 2025, $414 million has been allocated to BHRNs statewide.
• BHRNs assess their communities’ needs and tailor programming and services across six core areas: screening and assessment, harm reduction, housing services, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, supported employment and peer support services.
• Engagement across every category of service has grown steadily since 2022, with particularly notable increases for peer support services, SUD treatment, and harm reduction services

Investment in the peer support services and system

• Peer services for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) in Oregon are designed to provide support, guidance and encouragement from individuals who have lived experience with recovery.
• These services foster connection, reduce stigma and empower individuals on their recovery journey.
• Programs supported by the OHA focus on harm reduction, recovery planning and building healthy relationships.
• These services are available in every county.

About Oregon Health Authority:

Oregon Health Authority is committed to advancing health equity, improving the health of people in Oregon and ensuring access to high-quality, affordable health care.

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May 15, 2025

Media Contact:  Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

Mental Health Awareness Month Spotlight: Loneliness line supports seniors

PORTLAND, Ore.– When Carli Cox picks up the phone, she never knows who will be on the other end, but she knows why she’s answering.   As a Crisis Intervention Specialist at Lines for Life, Cox is one of the voices providing support to people facing behavioral health challenges including loneliness.

For Mental Health Awareness Month, Oregon Health Authority is highlighting its partnership with Lines for Life. OHA provides funding for six crisis and support lines, including the Senior Loneliness Line.  This service offers older Oregonians connection and emotional support amid growing concerns about social isolation in aging populations.

“The Senior Loneliness Line is unique,” Cox said. “It functions both as a warm line for friendly conversation and as a space for crisis support when needed. We get calls from people who just want to start their day with a voice on the other end, to others who are dealing with isolation, loss, aging related issues, and sometimes suicidal thoughts.”

About 15% of Oregonians are ages 65 years or older, and by 2030 that number will increase to 20%. This age group is experiencing many behavioral health struggles, with one in five individuals experiencing depression at any given time. Males ages 75 and older have the highest suicide rate of any age group and gender.

With more than three years of experience and 4,000 crisis calls under her belt, Cox plays a critical role in helping the aging population.  Older adults often face stigma seeking mental health support, and Cox wants them to know that no problem is too small.

“Many seniors didn’t grow up in a time when talking about mental health was encouraged. We want them to know this line is here for them—it’s safe, confidential, and there’s no need to be in crisis to call.”

The Senior Loneliness Line sees a wide range of callers, from those facing estrangement from family to those who’ve outlived loved ones. Even a single phone call can bring meaningful change.

“Sometimes, you can hear a shift in someone’s voice by the end of a conversation,” said Cox. “Making that connection is so rewarding.”

If you are a senior or know someone who might benefit from the Senior Loneliness Line, please call 1-800-282-7035 or visit https://seniorlonelinessline.org/. For other mental health needs, call, or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org.

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May 15, 2025

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

Oregon reports record-high nonmedical vaccine exemptions for kindergartners

But most families continue to vaccinate their kids, OHA officials say

PORTLAND, Ore.—A record 9.7% of kindergartners claimed nonmedical exemptions from Oregon’s school vaccination requirements for the 2024-2025 school year, the highest rate ever recorded in the state, Oregon Health Authority announced today.

The increase continues an upward trend from 8.8% in 2024, when Oregon had the fourth-highest nonmedical exemption rate in the United States, behind Idaho, Alaska and Utah, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National data for the current school year are not yet available.

Data from the Oregon Immunization Program at OHA’s Public Health Division indicates 86.3% of kindergartners were fully vaccinated with all required immunizations for the current school year, down from 86.4% last year, marking three consecutive years of declining vaccination coverage among Oregon’s youngest students. These declining rates raise the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in schools, particularly in communities with lower immunization coverage.

Stacy de Assis Matthews, school immunization coordinator at the Oregon Immunization Program, stressed the critical role of high vaccination rates in protecting public health.

“An immunized community is our most effective defense against diseases such as measles,” Matthews said.  “Robust vaccination coverage not only protects individual children but also safeguards those who cannot be vaccinated due to age, medical conditions, or other vulnerabilities, helping protect our communities in Oregon.”

• To view a video of local public health authority representatives from around Oregon sharing their thoughts about vaccine perceptions in their communities, click here.

Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA, expressed alarm at the rising exemption rates.

“The increase in nonmedical exemptions weakens community immunity, creating opportunities for outbreaks of serious diseases that vaccines have nearly eradicated,” he said.

Cieslak cited CDC data reporting 1,001 measles cases in the U.S. as of May 8, 2025, with 96% among unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.

Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at Oregon Public Health, highlighted the importance of sustaining and strengthening public confidence in vaccination programs.

“Vaccines have transformed public health by dramatically reducing the burden of infectious diseases, enabling children to grow up in safe environments,” Sidelinger said. “The growing trend of nonmedical exemptions threatens to undo decades of progress and puts us all at risk. OHA is committed to providing accessible, science-based information to empower families to choose vaccination.”

Despite the rise in exemptions, Matthews emphasized that the vast majority of Oregon families continue to get childhood immunizations. For students across all grades, from kindergarten through 12th grade, 90.4% were fully vaccinated in 2025.

“Parents and guardians recognize the essential role vaccines play in keeping schools and communities free from diseases like measles, polio, and pertussis,” she said. Oregon’s immunization laws help protect more than 650,000 students in schools and child care programs. “Every child’s immunization record is checked yearly, helping ensure equitable vaccine access for all Oregon children.”

Updated kindergarten immunization and exemption rates for the 2024-2025 school year are available at Oregon Immunization Coverage. Spreadsheets detailing immunization rates for individual schools and child care facilities are also accessible, with 2025 updates to interactive maps forthcoming.

Vaccination resources for families: 

• Information on immunization requirements in 17 languages can be found on the OHA website.
• Families seeking vaccines can contact 211 or their local health department. 211Info offers support in English and Spanish, with interpreter services in multiple languages.
• The Vaccines for Children program provides low- or no-cost immunizations for children ages 0-18 who are enrolled in Oregon Health Plan, uninsured, and/or American Indian/Alaska Native. 

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon.

About OHA: Oregon Health Authority is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Oregonians through evidence-based public health initiatives, including robust immunization programs. 

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May 13, 2025

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

Syphilis during pregnancy on the rise, leading to serious health complications for infants

OHA public health physician says coordinated action, increased awareness and commitment to equitable care can help protect those most at risk

PORTLAND, Ore. —Health care providers in Oregon are deeply concerned that congenital syphilis rates continue to rise at an alarming pace, according to preliminary 2024 Oregon Health Authority data. This is despite overall rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Oregon stabilizing in recent years.

In 2014, Oregon recorded two cases of congenital syphilis. By 2024, that number had surged to 45—a staggering 2,150% increase—according to data analyzed by the HIV, STD and TB Section at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“Although rates of syphilis infections in Oregon have decreased in line with national trends, the rate of syphilis diagnosed during pregnancy is increasing, resulting in more infants affected by this preventable disease,” said Pete Singson, M.D., OHA’s HIV, STD and TB medical director.

“Congenital syphilis cases remain concentrated in urban areas, but we’re seeing a growing number of syphilis cases during pregnancy in rural and frontier counties,” Singson explained. “Half of the 2024 congenital syphilis cases were outside the Portland metro area.”

Pregnant people in the Black/African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, and Hispanic/Latino populations in Oregon are disproportionately represented in this epidemic.

Singson said it’s critical to understand that these disparities are not due to race or ethnicity, but rather by the compounded effects of systemic racism, poverty, houselessness and stigma.

The risks of untreated syphilis during pregnancy include miscarriage, growth abnormalities, premature birth and fetal death. In a newborn, nearly every organ system can be affected, and severe cases can result in neonatal death. Providers have limited experience diagnosing syphilis due to its historically low prevalence, Singson said, which makes diagnosis even more challenging.

OHA is encouraging providers to work closely with local public health authorities to ensure patients complete their treatment, and to facilitate the testing and treatment of people with whom the patients have had sexual contact. Singson said OHA is aligned with American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidance in recommending that all pregnant people be universally screened at three timepoints during their pregnancy: their first prenatal visit, at 28 weeks, and at the time of delivery.

Addressing this crisis requires not only a concerted effort to educate providers and communities but also expanding screening, treatment and access to care.

“With coordinated action, increased awareness and commitment to equitable care, we can end this crisis and protect future generations of Oregonians,” said Singson.

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon.

To hear Dr. Singson talk about the dangers of congenital syphilis, click here.

Pete Singson, M.D., OHA’s HIV, STD and TB medical director

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May 12, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539

OHA seeks your help to make health care more affordable

New committees, public hearing provide opportunities to brainstorm solutions

SALEM, Ore. – Are you concerned about paying for a health emergency or routine care? Do you have an idea that could make health care more affordable? Oregon Health Authority (OHA) wants to hear from you.

“Everyone deserves quality health care, but growing medical costs make that increasingly challenging,” said Antonio Germann, M.D., a family physician who is vice-chair of the Oregon Health Policy Board, a citizen-led body that oversees OHA. “We need to tackle this complex issue to ensure our future health, and we’re inviting people to share their personal experiences and expertise with us to help us address it.”

About 83% of Oregon adults worry about being able to afford health care in the future, and 43% have struggled to pay their medical bills, according to a 2024 survey. Concerning statistics like this prompted OHA to make strengthening affordable health care for all a pillar in its strategic plan. It also led the Oregon Health Policy Board to seek the public’s help in identifying a broad range of solutions by serving on committees and participating in a June 10 public hearing.

Oregonians are invited to submit applications to serve on two new committees focused on health care affordability. May 16 is the extended deadline to apply for both committees. Applications and more information are available on the Committee on Health Care Affordability and Industry Advisory Committee webpages. Once their members are chosen, the committees plan to meet beginning this summer. Additional details are below.

The Committee on Health Care Affordability, also simply called the Affordability Committee, is seeking diverse voices. Its members may include people who receive health care, employers that purchase insurance, health economists and health policy experts.

The Affordability Committee will be supported by the Industry Advisory Committee, which also aims to include a variety of perspectives, ranging from health insurers to providers, hospitals and health industry leaders. Health care professionals in small or independent practices, and those who specialize in primary care, behavioral health, oral health or pediatrics are particularly encouraged to apply to the industry committee.

Comment at public forum

Both committees will build on the work of OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target program, which seeks to limit Oregon’s health care cost increases to 3.4% per person annually. Between 2021 and 2022, the state’s health care spending grew by 3.6%, slightly more than the target.

Every year, the Health Care Cost Growth Target program holds a legislatively required public hearing to discuss recent trends in health care spending and highlight what’s driving health care cost growth. The 2025 public hearing will specifically explore behavioral health and pharmacy spending trends and will also focus on policy ideas to improve health care affordability. Information and potential solutions discussed at the event will help inform the new committees’ future work. People are also encouraged to share their personal stories and ideas about health care affordability during the hearing. See below for details on how to participate.

What: Health Care Cost Growth Public Hearing

When: 10 a.m.-Noon PT Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Details: Hybrid virtual and in-person meeting to discuss health care costs in Oregon, including recent trends, their causes and ideas for slowing cost growth.

Get involved: Consumers, clinicians and businesses are invited to share their concerns about and experiences with health care costs. Email written testimony or sign up to provide spoken comment at e.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.

Webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP/Pages/cost-growth-target-public-hearings.aspx

Zoom meeting:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1610883159?pwd=PAveuaEZgsT4KLXVPXm8WduVGatWCa.1

Meeting ID: 161 088 3159

Passcode: 371696

One tap mobile: +16692545252,1610883159# US (San Jose)​

In-person meeting: Salem, Oregon (details will be added to Oregon Health Policy Board meeting webpage)

SALEM, Oregon—Every year Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to its visitors — free camping and day-use parking on State Parks Day.

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their long-standing support of the state park system. It falls on the first Saturday of June, which is June 7 this year.

“We are honored to steward and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. We appreciate their commitment to preserving and maintaining Oregon’s special places. We would not have the park system that we have today without their support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that charge them and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites on June 7. State Parks Day also includes free events at many state parks.

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months getting parks ready for the busier season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage, with as many as 180 downed trees near Nehalem, to moving mountains of muck or sand to re-open camp loops. Now parks are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the busier season.

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• https://omsi.edu/whats-on/">L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI's website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.  
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon's ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

About State Parks Day

State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. It’s one of three days a year that Oregon State Parks waives the day-use parking fees. Other days include Green Friday the day after Thanksgiving and First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day.

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

PORT ORFORD – The Port Orford City Jail is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their February 2025 meeting for its significant connections to Port Orford’s early city governance and its first mayor Gilbert E. Gable. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted this nomination in late April 2025.

Located near Seventh and Jefferson Street in Port Orford, the Port Orford City Jail was constructed in 1939 as the first and only all-new governmental building constructed during the Gable administration. The charismatic Gilbert E. Gable (1886-1941) arrived in Port Orford in 1934. As the head of several commercial ventures, including the port facility in Port Orford, a sawmill, and mining properties, Gable spearheaded Depression-era development in the community. When residents voted to incorporate Port Orford in 1935, Gable was elected mayor and continued in that role until his unexpected death in early December 1941. During his tenure in office, Gable worked constantly to draw attention to the economic needs of Southwestern Oregon. He provided support to the town of Bandon after it was destroyed by fire in 1936. He also tried, but failed, to connect the region to the inland valleys of Oregon through the Gold Coast Railroad, a project that brought Gable attention throughout southern Oregon and northern California. Gable’s work undoubtedly benefited his own companies, but it also made him a popular political figure and by 1941, he was actively touting the frustrations of residents in Curry County and beyond. That fall he began suggesting that Curry County could secede from Oregon, a movement that quickly became known as the State of Jefferson. Within a week of Gable’s death a few months later, the State of Jefferson as an active movement came to a halt, but the ideas behind it remain well into the 21st century.

The Port Orford City Jail was used from 1939 until around 1965, after which time it was sold to a private party. It was later occupied by a novelty shop and then a fish market, before standing unused for many years. The City of Port Orford reacquired the building property in 2007. Although surrounding properties have been redeveloped, the Port Orford City Jail retains its historic appearance that is reflective of the building’s original purpose.

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

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

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

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

MANZANITA, Oregon— Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen day-use areas including trails and the boat launch on May 23, but the campground will remain closed through at least June due to ongoing construction.

“We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the park, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to improve the park experience,” said Park Manger Ben Cox.

The day-use areas opening include the boat ramp, the south day-use parking area, the airport and the multi-use path east of the main entrance road. The main entrance from Garey Street will be reopened to the public at the same time to serve the day-use areas. 

The campground and the Horizon Street entrance will remain closed to the public through June while work continues in the campground. The campground is slated to reopen as soon as July 1 depending on the construction schedule. The park will open campground reservations in the next few weeks for dates starting in July.

Check the webpage for updates.

The construction work at Nehalem Bay includes:

• Upgrading water and electrical lines within the camp loops
• Adding a restroom/shower building to serve increasing visitation and provide more accessible facilities (accessible features include adult changing table for visitors with disabilities)
• Adding an accessible restroom and accessible campsites to the horse camp
• Adding hose bibs to horse camp sites
• Renovating and adding additional accessible campsites and paths
• Repaving the main entrance road
• Adding traffic calming features park entry road from the Garey Street entrance to the airport intersection
• Adding a new day-use fee station near the airport intersection

The work at Nehalem Bay was made possible by GO Bonds, a $50 million investment approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021. It’s one of nine projects at eight parks focused on building capacity, increasing accessibility and maintaining aging park infrastructure. Visit the Go Bond website for a complete list of projects.

SALEM, Ore ­— The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting applications to fill two positions on the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee.

The dealine to apply is May 31, 2025. The 10-member committee allocates funding to public park and recreation projects throughout the state. OPRD is seeking one representative from a city with a population of less than 15,000 people, and a representative of the public who represents an historically under-represented community. Public-at-large positions may be held by a recreation professional or any citizen with an interest or background in outdoor recreation.

The main function of the committee is to read, assess and score grant applications submitted to the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee and attend a three-day grant application presentation meeting to be held in Salem July 29, 30 & 31.  Committee members can attend the meetings in person or via Zoom.  

Expectations and responsibilities are listed on the program webpage: oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx. Interested applicants should submit a Committee Interest Form by May 31, 2025.

Committee members serve up to two consecutive four-year terms.  Members represent the following categories:

• Counties east and west of the Cascade Range
• Cities under 15,000 people
• Cities over 15,000 people
• Park and recreation districts, metropolitan service districts or port districts
• People with disabilities
• Three members of the public including at least one person who represents an historically under-represented community.

If travel is involved, OPRD will reimburse all travel, meals and lodging expenses associated with committee meetings.

The Local Government Grant Program is funded by the Oregon Lottery and currently awards about $14 million annually to outdoor park and recreation projects throughout the state. Eligible applicants to the program are cities, counties, parks and recreation districts, port districts and metropolitan service districts.

OPRD is committed to ensuring that all committees represent the growing age, ethnic and gender diversity of the state. New committee members will ultimately be appointed by the OPRD Director.

For information, contact Mark Cowan at 503-951-1317 or k.cowan@oprd.oregon.gov">mark.cowan@oprd.oregon.gov.

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SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via online meeting on May 27. The meeting will include approval of the 2025 Oregon Museum Grant recommendations. To view the full agenda and/or to register for the virtual meeting 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 members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. 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 celebrations.
 

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 y@oprd.oregon.gov">katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov.  
 

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The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet via online meeting on May 27 at 1:00 p.m. The primary agenda item is approval of the 2025 Oregon Historic Cemeteries grants. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Register for the meeting to receive online access 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. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

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 call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

With the recent dam removals on the iconic Klamath River, this stretch is very technical which means novice and intermediate recreational boaters are not advised to boat in this area in the foreseeable future. Only very experienced whitewater boaters with advanced skill sets for self-rescue should attempt to recreate downstream of the Keno Dam.

Inexperienced boaters are encouraged to go with a registered outfitter guide to experience the river. Rapid classification and traits can change depending on higher and lower water levels. High water can wash out rapids or make them more intense, and lower water can make some rapids more challenging and technical.

The rapids between Keno Dam Access Site to Pioneer Park West are rated Class III, and from Pioneer Park West to Moonshine Falls, the rating increases to Class IV. There is little transition between difficulty ratings. 

The Klamath River Recreation Corporation is working with numerous agencies and organizations in both Oregon and California as part of the approved Federal Energy Regulatory Commission plan, which includes recreation.  

The Marine Board approved grant funding to improve Pioneer Park West and the development of new access at Moonshine Falls.

These facilities are under construction:

• Pioneer Park West will have a partial opening beginning May 15.
• Moonshine Falls will be closed until later this summer. All construction is anticipated to be completed by August 1.

In Oregon, all boaters are required to wear a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for any rivers with a Class III or higher scale of difficulty rating. The Marine Board also encourages helmet wear while whitewater boating.

The Marine Board is developing comprehensive safety information on a web page, along with signage for experienced users at Keno Dam, Pioneer Park West, Moonshine Falls, and Spring Hill Island access sites. 

Learn more about the International Scale of River Difficulty and skill level.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov for more recreational boating safety information and KlamathRenewal.org for Klamath River public notices. 

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Salem, OR – Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist and Michael Kennedy, senior economist of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Economic Analysis (OEA), presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to public review and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is different about this forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the State of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. In May of odd years, OEA’s revenue forecast establishes the anticipated resource levels for the next biennium’s adopted budget.

The May 2025 economic outlook brings more uncertainty and slower growth as risk factors continue to widen. Key points include:

• The national economy was projected to grow 2% for 2025 in the previous forecast; that growth is now projected to be 0.8%, less than half the original estimate.
• The outlook is now characterized as sluggish growth, a significant slowing in economic growth that results in a rising unemployment rate. This is distinct from a recession, which is characterized as a broad-based decline in economic activity. The probability of recession is currently estimated by OEA at 25%.
• Oregon’s economy continues to be bound to national trends for growth and inflation.
• Oregon’s heightened sensitivity to trade has a direct impact on personal income taxes and state labor trends although less of an impact on corporate taxes.

Revenue Forecast

The May revenue forecast projects the 2023-25 General Fund ending balance to be $2.17 billion, with revenues decreasing by $162.3 million.

In the 2025-27 biennium, General Fund revenues decreasing by $337 million from the March forecast.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis within the Department of Administrative Services and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis and recent forecasts visit https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

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

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

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants at Luepke/Marshall Center, 1009 E McLoughin Blvd. from 9 am to 3 pm Friday, May 23.

Exemption specialists will be on hand for another enrollment event on Friday, June 6, from 9 am to 3 pm at the Evergreen Public Schools administrative building, 13413 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive.

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 Commission on Aging’s charge is to provide leadership in addressing the special needs of the aging population and to manage and assist with the implementation of the county’s Aging Readiness Plan.  This month, the Commission focuses on Chapter 2 of the Aging Readiness Plan—Healthy Communities. The COA and their guests will discuss opportunities and programs oriented to older adults and physical fitness. Join us in welcoming representatives from the City of Vancouver’s Marshall and Firstenburg Community Centers.

The meeting will be 4:30 pm Wednesday, May 21, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are currently held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23/323 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

The Commission on Aging, supported by the of the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members.

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a use of deadly force incident involving Clark County Sheriff’s Office on May 7, 2025.

This individual died on 05/08/2025 in Ridgefield, WA.

The name of the decedent: Fogle, Marc   Age: 54 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Clackamas, OR

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple stab wounds of torso

Manner of death:  Homicide

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

Place of injury: Law enforcement building

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

Media release issue date: 05/13/2025

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Animal Protection and Control with support of the Sheriff’s Office facilitated the seizure and rescue of 26 goats, 5 sheep, and 14 chickens. Mohammad Aluauddin has been charged with 45 counts of Animal Cruelty in the first degree. 

The most recent case began back in May of 2023 when Animal Protection and Control started receiving complaints about how several goats appeared malnourished and were living in poor conditions. Over time, conditions worsened, and the number of animals increased. A break in the case came when a neighbor reported one of the goats escaped off the property which provided sufficient evidence to obtain a search warrant. 

Animal Protection and Control officers entered the property on the morning of May 7, with Clark County Sheriff’s deputies and seized 45 animals and removed them from the property. By the end of the day, all animals were relocated and receiving proper veterinarian care and nutrition.   

The owner was arrested and had his first appearance in court on May 8, where the judge ordered that he cannot possess, own, or care for any animals. Animal Protection and Control will perform periodic checks on the property per the judge’s order. The next court appearance for this case is May 21, 2025. 

Animal Protection and Control thanks the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for their support and commitment to hold those accountable for the crime of animal cruelty. The Animal Legal Defense Fund has been instrumental in providing much needed resources and support to Clark County Animal Protection and Control in this case. 

Learn more about the county’s Animal Protection and Control program at https://clark.wa.gov/community-development/animals-and-pets.

Se buscó la participación del público para ayudar a dar forma a las futuras prioridades de salud

ASTORIA, OR — El Departamento de Salud Pública del Condado de Clatsop, el Hospital Columbia Memorial y el Hospital Seaside de Providence están trabajando juntos para comprender mejor las fortalezas, necesidades y desafíos que afectan la salud y el bienestar en nuestras comunidades.

Como parte de la Evaluación de las Necesidades de Salud de la Comunidad (CHNA, por sus siglas en inglés) de 2025, se invita al público a compartir sus perspectivas a través de una breve evaluación en línea abierta desde ahora hasta el 30 de junio de 2025.

La evaluación tarda unos minutos en completarse y ofrece a los participantes la oportunidad de ganar una tarjeta de regalo de Amazon de $ 100. Las respuestas son anónimas y ayudarán a informar las estrategias, servicios y políticas locales que apoyan un condado de Clatsop más saludable.

Realice la evaluación aquí:
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/3c697d7ea69d4c828e86fcb7f7764de5

"Esta es una oportunidad muy importante para que los residentes compartan ideas sobre la salud, la vivienda, la obtención de atención médica, la salud mental, el uso de sustancias y otras cosas que afectan su vida diaria", dijo Jill Quackenbush, subdirectora de Salud Pública del Condado de Clatsop.

La encuesta es solo el primer paso en el proceso de CHNA. La evaluación completa también incluirá entrevistas con líderes comunitarios, grupos focales y un análisis de datos de salud locales para crear una imagen integral de la salud comunitaria.

Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de CHNA o para solicitar una copia impresa de la evaluación, comuníquese con el Departamento de Salud Pública del Condado de Clatsop al 503-325-8500, envíe un correo electrónico a health@clatsopcounty.gov o visite www.clatsopcounty.gov/publichealth.

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Public input sought to help shape future health priorities

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Public Health, Columbia Memorial Hospital, and Providence Seaside Hospital are working together to better understand the strengths, needs, and challenges impacting health and well-being in our communities.

As part of the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), the public are invited to share their perspectives through a brief online assessment open now through June 30, 2025.

The assessment takes a few minutes to complete and offers participants a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card. Responses are anonymous and will help inform local strategies, services, and policies that support a healthier Clatsop County.

Take the assessment here:
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/3c697d7ea69d4c828e86fcb7f7764de5

"This is a very important chance for residents to share ideas around health, housing, getting healthcare, mental health, substance use, and other things that affect their daily lives,” said Jill Quackenbush, Clatsop County Public Health Deputy Director.

The survey is just the first step in the CHNA process. The full assessment will also include interviews with community leaders, focus groups, and an analysis of local health data to create a comprehensive picture of community health.

For more information about the CHNA process or to request a paper copy of the assessment, contact Clatsop County Public Health at 503-325-8500, email health@clatsopcounty.gov  or visit www.clatsopcounty.gov/publichealth.

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The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of trustees will be held on May 19, 6:00 pm, at Stevenson Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. . 

You can view the agenda and meeting materials at: https://www.fvrl.org/board-trustees

A Memorial Day ceremony to honor the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their lives in service to our nation will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the Battle Ground Veterans Memorial located in Kiwanis Park at 422 SW 2nd Avenue in Battle Ground.

The Battle Ground City Council invites members of the community to join them as we remember and pay tribute to the 31-Battle Ground-area men enshrined on walls of the memorial.  

“Each year, as we read the names of our local heroes aloud, we honor their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty in defending our freedom,” shared Mayor Troy McCoy. “The Battle Ground Veterans Memorial stands as a lasting tribute to the service members from our community—and a powerful reminder of the deep gratitude we owe them for their sacrifice.”

The ceremony will include the presentation of the flags by cadets from the Battle Ground High School Air Force Junior ROTC program.  The ceremony will also feature performances by Battle Ground High School Bandmember Rubyee MacPherson (Trumpet) and local musician Logan Gillespie (Bagpipes).

We invite the community to join us in remembering and honoring these heroes, as well as all members of the U.S. Armed Forces who died in service.  Read about the Battle Ground Veterans Memorial, ​at www.cityofbg.org/veteransmemorial.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OREGON CITY PARKS AND RECREATION ANNOUNCES BUSY

SUMMER OF CONCERTS AND EVENTS

Oregon City, ORE. – Oregon City Parks and Recreation is urging residents to get ready for a summer to remember, as the department gets ready to launch a season packed with music, movies, and community celebration.

“From toe-tapping concerts to family-favorite films under the stars, plus the city’s biggest patriotic bash, there's something for everyone to enjoy,” said Taylor Miller, Rental and Events Coordinator with with Parks and Rec.

The annual Concerts in the Park series are always popular with residents, and the lineup this year promises continue that trend. Starting July 10 this year and running every Thursday until Aug. 14, the series once again takes place at the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.

In addition to live music, there will also be local food vendors, and family-friendly activities and a Kids’ Zone to add to the festival-like atmosphere. This year’s lineup includes a wide variety of genres to appeal to all music lovers. Acts include:

• July 10 – Ants In The Kitchen: High-energy Rock, Soul, Blues & Funk 

• July 17 – Band After Midnight: ABBA tribute, glittering costumes & singalongs 

• July 24 – Nate Botsford: Country hits and feel-good classics 

• July 31 – Fighting Foos: Foo Fighters tribute with rock & passion 

• August 7 – Kalimba: Earth, Wind & Fire tribute with dynamic horns 

• August 14 – Hit Machine: The ultimate dance party to close out the summer 

“This event showcases the best of Oregon City – a perfect blend of music, food, and community,” said Miller. “We’re thrilled to continue this summer tradition and look forward to welcoming families and friends to enjoy these magical evenings together.”   

Miller stressed that the concerts are truly a community event, as they couldn’t happen without help from local sponsors.

“Our Presenting Sponsors this year are OnPoint Community Credit Union, Lithia Subaru of Oregon City, South Ridge Center,” he said.

Other community help comes from supporting sponsors Oregon City Brewing Company and Floyd Family Orthodontics. Event sponsors  Hillside Chapel & Funeral Services, Country Financial, Embold Credit Union, Providence, Holman-Hankins-Bowker & Waud and Stone Creek Building. Friend of the Concert Sponsors are Citizens Bank, Oregon City Optimist Club, McLoughlin Neighborhood Association, Oregon City Festival of the Arts.

The venue opens at 4 p.m. with food vendors and Kids’ Zone opening at 5 p.m. before music starts at 6:30 until 8:30 p.m.

Learn more at orcity.news/2025-concerts. 

While the Concerts in the Park have long been a popular event, one new celebration is returning as well.

Last year’s 4^th of July Community Celebration was deemed a huge success, and Parks and Recreation is looking to keep that momentum going. Residents will be able to celebrate Independence Day the Oregon City way—with an evening full of live music, family fun, delicious food, and a spectacular laser light show.

Headlining the event this year is local favorite Johnny Limbo and the Lugnuts, bringing their high-energy brand of classic rock and roll to the stage as part of their farewell tour at 8 p.m. Opening the night is the Schown Slade Band at 6 p.m.

The grand finale will once again be the Laser Light Spectacular, paying tribute to our nation with a break taking light display. This year’s event is made possible by Floyd Family Orthodontics, Citizens Bank, Oregon City Optimist Club, and Oregon City Festival of the Arts.

 Finally, Movies in the Park return as well for more free family fun under the stars. Backed by Water Environment Services, Pex Realty Group, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation Team Bill Clark, Lithia Subaru of Oregon City, and Sunshine Early Learning Childcare Center, four films are planned for this summer starting July 25. This year’s lineup includes:

• July 25 – Despicable Me 4 at Wesley Lynn Park 
• August 5 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 
  (As part of National Night Out, 5:30–8:00 PM at the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center) 

• August 15 – Inside Out 2 at Chapin Park 

• August 22 – Moana 2 at Hillendale Park 

Activities and vendors at each movie begin at 7:30 p.m. with movies starting around 8:30.

• 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 is scheduled from 2-4 p.m. May 17

Salem, Ore. — Street closures for an event near the Oregon State Capitol Mall on Saturday, May 17, will affect midday traffic. Permitted street closures for the event will include parts of Center Street NE between Cottage Street NE and Capitol Street NE from 2-4 p.m.

Drivers will see more pedestrians in the area and may experience delays. Temporary signs will show which roads are closed and where lanes are restricted.  Drivers should plan ahead, take different routes and drive carefully.

Closure Details

• Date: Saturday, May 17
• Time: 2-4 p.m.
• Affected Streets: Center Street NE, Chemeketa Street NE, Court Street NE, Cottage Street NE, Capitol Street NE and Winter St NE, all in the vicinity of the Oregon State Capitol and Capitol Mall.
• Details: Streets inside the area bordered by Center, Cottage, Court and Capitol streets will have full or partial closures. These closures will allow the event to take place and keep participants and visitors safe.
   

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

Those with questions or comments should contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311.

SALEM, Ore. — Drivers who use McGilchrist Street SE should be aware that eastbound traffic is closed through the end of the year between 22nd Street SE and 25th Street SE.

Local access will be available to all residences and businesses in the area. Signs pointing to traffic detours will be in place. Drivers are advised to watch for traffic signs and follow all instructions from crews working in the area.

This work is part of the McGilchrist Complete Street Project, Phase 2 construction. The cost is funded by the voter-approved 2022 Safety and Livability Bond, federal funds, urban renewal and other City funds.

The McGilchrist Complete Street project will transform the current two-lane arterial into a street that provides the necessary elements to support safe movement of goods and people by truck, rail, car, foot and bicycle. People will be able to use this corridor to support economic development in a sustainable manner while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, flooding concerns and improving the water quality for Pringle Creek. Learn more at https://salemor.gov/3ERFbED.

The McGilchrist Street SE eastbound closure will include travel lanes and parking spaces in the construction zone. Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage, and watch for workers in the area.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem: https://public-construction-salem.hub.arcgis.com/.

SALEM, Ore. — Construction activities will impact traffic around the intersection of State and 25^th streets SE through October of this year.

Activities for a Capital Improvement Project began May 12 at that intersection and are expected to continue intermittently through October. Traffic control will be set up to the east and west along State Street and south along 25th Street SE.

The project includes construction of accessible curb ramps and sidewalk, installation of a pedestrian island, modification and extension of an existing median island and signal improvements. This safety-oriented project is intended to reduce vehicle crashes, increase pedestrian visibility and bring the intersection up to current ADA standards.

This project is funded through Oregon Department of Transportation All Roads Transportation Safety Program, with the City’s match share coming from State Gas Tax Revenue.  

For more information about City of Salem Capital Improvements, see https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/shaping-salem-s-future/capital-improvements.

Some night work will be necessary to complete this project. Pedestrians and drivers should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic-control signage.

The City of Tigard is pleased to announce that Scott Edwards Architecture has been selected as the architectural firm for the new Tigard police and public works facility.

Scott Edwards Architecture (SEA) was chosen for this project through a competitive process and brings more than 27 years of experience to the table in delivering public, non-profit and private projects. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, SEA is already familiar with this project and with Tigard, having completed the preliminary site programming work during the due diligence phase.

SEA’s recent projects include the Wilsonville Public Works building and the Oregon City Engineering and Operations Center. Additionally, SEA partners with MWL Architects, which has extensive public safety building experience. The selection panel was particularly impressed by their team-oriented approach and their excitement for the CMGC (construction manager/general contractor) construction delivery method the City of Tigard will be utilizing for this project. The selection was unanimously confirmed by Tigard City Council Tuesday evening (May 13, 2025).

“We are excited to work with Scott Edwards Architecture and see them bring this critical project to life through thoughtful design, innovative technologies and environmentally friendly materials,” said Tigard Mayor Heidi Lueb. “We are looking forward to working with SEA as we continue to move this project forward.” 

Known as Building a Better Tigard, significant work has already been done to move forward with construction of a safe, modern facility for Tigard’s police and public works departments. Currently housed in outdated, undersized and unsafe facilities, completing this project is a top priority for Tigard City Council. This move is strategically designed to enhance efficiency, ensure safety, reduce costs and improve services.

After years of research, the City of Tigard purchased 9.5 acres of undeveloped land for this purpose on SW Wall Street & Hunziker Road in 2024. In early 2025, Otak was selected as the Project Director to oversee the project (read the news release on Otak’s selection here.) The City is asking for the community to support this important project through a bond vote in May 2026. If successfully passed, construction is expected to begin immediately. The City of Tigard Police and Public Works Departments could move into the new combined facility Tigard’s police and public works departments by mid to late 2028.

Learn more about SEA at https://www.seallp.com/ and get updates on the new facility project at www.tigard-or.gov/BuildingABetterTigard.

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TUALATIN, OR –
The City of Tualatin is proud to partner with Hazelbrook Middle School, LAM Research, SOLVE, Friends of Trees, and Tualatin Riverkeepers to host the first-ever Hazelbrook Middle School Cares day of service on Tuesday, May 20. This collaborative initiative supported by the Parent-Student Organization brings together students, families, non-profit organizations, local businesses, and City staff for a day dedicated to service, learning, and community stewardship.
 

An anticipated 880 Hazelbrook Middle School students will participate in volunteer projects across the community. Students and parent volunteers will work directly with LAM Research employees, SOLVE volunteers, Friends of Trees, Tualatin Riverkeepers,  and City of Tualatin staff at Tualatin Community Park, Jurgens Park, and the school campus—making a tangible impact through environmental cleanups, infrastructure education, and stewardship activities.

The day’s activities will feature a mix of educational and hands-on experiences, including:

• Environmental Science Learning: Students will participate in projects influencing stream health and the Tualatin Watershed. Students will identify native plants and remove invasive plants in greenspaces improving forest diversity.
• Civic Responsibility: Students will learn about city assets, city infrastructure, parks, trails and greenspaces and help maintain them for community health, safety and longevity.
• Community Litter Blitz: SOLVE team members and City staff will lead students in a community and campus litter cleanup. Students will explore the environmental and community costs of litter, and learn how they can help and inspire others.

The goal of HMS Cares is to inspire students through meaningful volunteerism alongside family members, while fostering a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility and the role of public service in their daily lives.
 

“HMS Cares Day is a powerful example of what can happen when students, families, non-profit organizations, businesses, and local government come together,” said Jackie Konen, Volunteer Program Manager for the City of Tualatin. “It’s more than a volunteer day—it’s an investment in youth leadership, environmental responsibility, and community connection that we hope will inspire lasting impact.”
 

The City of Tualatin is excited to support Hazelbrook Middle School in this inspiring new tradition that helps students develop a lasting sense of civic pride, environmental awareness, and community connection.
 

Join Us
The City of Tualatin is grateful for every volunteer who donates their time and talent to make our community stronger. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov/volunteers.

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Vancouver, Wash. – On Monday, May 12, Vancouver City Council passed a resolution to award $11.15 million from its Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) to help create or preserve 330 affordable rental homes with a focus on seniors, people with disabilities and individuals exiting homelessness.

“This funding is an essential tool in our continuing effort to address the affordable housing crisis in our community,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “The important projects supported by this investment will help ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors have access to safe, stable and affordable homes, fostering a more inclusive and resilient community.”

After review by the Housing Advisory Committee, five projects were recommended totaling $11.15 million in AHF awards:

• Community Roots Collaborative – C-Roots Mill Plain Tiny Homes: $1.05 million supporting 20 new units (permanent supportive housing for households exiting homelessness)
• Palindrome – Artifact at Vancouver Heights District (site C): $4.1 million to support 109 new units (new mixed-income development with units for people with disabilities)
• Mid-Columbia Manor – Smith Tower preservation: $2 million to support preservation of 170 existing units (rehabilitation of iconic senior apartment building to improve life/safety features)
• Vancouver Housing Authority – Vancouver Heights District site P (senior housing): $1 million forward commitment to support 51 new units (new senior housing with on-site services and community amenities)
• Vancouver Housing Authority – Vancouver Heights District site P (family housing): $3 million forward commitment to support 80 new units (new family housing with supportive services and outdoor space)

These projects will create or preserve rental homes serving households earning 30% - 60% of the area median income. They were prioritized by community need, project readiness and project feasibility.

The application process for the AHF remains open on a rolling basis, with quarterly review periods throughout the year.

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UPDATE 9 P.M. Sunday, May 11, 2025: Lane closure expected to remain in place until Friday, May 16.

Drivers advised to use detour for westbound travel on NE Airport Way and the southbound right turn lane on NE 148th Ave to Airport Way.

PORTLAND, OR – Portland Water Bureau crews will continue working well into this week to repair a main break at NE Airport Way and NE 148th Avenue.

The City advises drivers to avoid the area. Flaggers will direct drivers to follow signs to a detour around the intersection. Westbound travel on NE Airport Way and southbound traffic in the right turn lane on NE 148th Avenue are impacted.

Drivers should use caution while driving in the area. Bureau crews working to repair the water main have families just like you; please keep your distance from crews at work and slow down when traveling through work zones.

Water service is not impacted at this time.

Crews are responding to a leak in a valve attached to a 48-inch steel water main that was originally installed in 1983. The soil condition in the area and the depth of the water main are complicating the repair. The first team on-site worked to stop the flow of water, address flooding, and pinpoint the location of the break. Crews are working to reach a valve that must be turned to reduce the flow of water and allow workers to access and repair the damaged main.

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.

PRESS RELEASE                                                        FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MAY 14, 2025

CASE: 23CR27928

Portland, OR - On May 8, 2025, Multnomah County Judge Andrew Lavin sentenced Michael Panarites to 50 years prison for multiple crimes tied to the rape, sodomy, assault, solicitation, and attempted murder of his former intimate partner with whom he shared a child.

A Multnomah County jury in February of 2025 found Panarites guilty of the following:
 

Attempt to Commit Any Degree of Murder or Aggravated Murder

Solicitation of Murder

Stalking

Two counts, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Six counts, Unlawful Use of a Global Positioning System Device

Harassment

Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Two counts, Coercion

Assault in the Fourth Degree

Harassment

Sodomy in the First Degree

Two counts, Rape in the First Degree

Two counts, Sodomy in the First Degree

Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorneys Kenzie Ludwig and Reid Schweitzer prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing, Ludwig said, “I’m forever grateful to the survivor for trusting us to handle the case against her abuser. This sentence not only reflects the severity of his conduct, but it also serves a greater purpose of keeping her, her loved ones, and the community safe from his criminal behavior.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Gresham Police Department Detectives Adam Wright and Lindsay Friderich, Gresham Police Officer John Heer, and Portland Police Bureau Officers Karina Robles and Julian Drury for their extensive investigation and dedication to this case through the years.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would also like to highlight the kind and compassionate work done by MCDA Victim Advocates Karla Juarez along with Chelsea Hickok and Karma Prajzler. 

Judge Lavin stated there were two primary reasons for why he agreed with the State’s recommended sentence. First, this was a long, continuous course of conduct that involved terrorizing the victim in every way possible - emotionally, physically, sexually, mentally, verbally, and financially. That has had an immeasurable impact on the victim’s life along with those who were also affected. The second consideration is that despite the numerous court issued orders on the civil and criminal side, nothing stopped Panarites from harassing those who were cooperative with law enforcement.

THE FACTS:

From at least December of 2020 until his arrest May 29, 2023, Michael Panarites physically, sexually, and psychologically abused the victim at various times. He was responsible for sexually and physically assaulting the victim before she fled the home in July 2022. After obtaining a restraining order, Panarites continued to stalk her by hiring a private investigator and placing multiple tracking devices on her vehicle to monitor her. His behavior continued to escalate when he solicited his parents on numerous occasions to assist in killing her and her mother. When confronted initially by police, Panarites fled from police, crossed state lines, and obtained stolen firearms and other weapons. 

Finally, on May 29, 2023, Portland Police stopped Panarites’ car because he had stolen license plates on it. Officers found 100+ rounds of ammunition, multiple loaded magazines, stolen loaded/functioning firearm, machete, axe, crossbow, bolts, and numerous stolen license plates. And on his car keys, police found a handcuff key. All of these items were documented by police as they were tools and weapons he described to his parents he would use to murder of the victim and others. 

                                            ###MCDA###

PRESS RELEASE                                                                                                                              FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Case: 24CR00332

Portland, OR- On Thursday, May 8, 2025, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Christopher Marshall sentenced Dylan Levi Rhoads to 90 months in prison for shooting at a man who confronted Mr. Rhoads over Mr. Rhoads harassing a flock of peacocks roaming a southeast Portland neighborhood.

Rhoads pled guilty to Attempted Murder in the Second Degree With a Firearm and Unlawful Use of a Weapon With a Firearm and resolved 8 different cases against him.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Eric Palmer prosecuted the case for the state.

After the sentencing he said:  “This defendant had a clear pattern of escalating, dangerous, criminal behavior. And yet he was repeatedly released after being arrested for his earlier crimes. 

I believe the system failed here- failed both the victims and the defendant.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the work of Detective Sara Clark, of the Enhanced Community Safety Team within the Portland Police Bureau, for her dedicated work to this case. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank MCDA Victim Advocates Amina Dureti and Nang Dunn for their compassionate care shown to the victims in this case. 

THE FACTS:

On September 29, 2023 Mr. Rhoads’ victim was leaving his wife and kids at his home and heading to work. When he stepped out of his house, he noticed the defendant and another person harassing peacocks across the street. He asked them to stop. They had a violent response to him including saying “bock, bock, bock you next” and “We can bang right now.”

The victim disengaged, went back into his home and let them drive away. When he thought it was clear, he went back out to his car to leave and made it a couple blocks to the next intersection and saw that they were waiting for him there. The driver shot at the victim from the driver’s seat of their vehicle. Investigators found five shell casings in the intersection and multiple bullet strikes to the victim’s car. 

Bullets grazed the victim but fortunately he did not suffer serious injuries, in part because he had installed a special, heavy duty seat in his vehicle which stopped one of the bullets from hitting him.

Police used a Ring camera video to get a good picture of the defendant’s vehicle and found the vehicle within days, connecting the car to the defendant.

                                                                                           ###MCDA###

PRESS RELEASE                FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Case #  (main cases) 24CR37703  and 24CR37704

May 11, 2025

Portland, OR-Multnomah County Judge Christopher Marshall sentenced Samantha Faye Smith and Delone Dominque Kelley on May 9th, 2025, to significant prison sentences resulting from an avoidable fentanyl overdose which caused serious physical injury to their son. The victim, who was three years old at the time, is now five years old. He remains significantly impacted by those injuries.

The plea agreements allowed the defendants to remain out of custody pending sentencing in order to get their affairs in order. Both defendants were warned that if they failed to appear at the original sentencing date, their prison sentences would be substantially increased. Neither defendant showed up for sentencing on April 4th as required by Judge Marshall. 

Smith was sentenced to a total of 56 months in prison for the crimes of Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree and Assault in the Third Degree. She also pled guilty to the crime of Failure to Appear in the First Degree.

In consideration of the fact that she did eventually turn herself in, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office asked Judge Marshall to take four months off of Smith’s sentence (which would have otherwise been 60 months prison).

Similarly, Judge Marshall sentenced Kelley to 75 months in prison (instead of 80 months prison) at the State’s request because he turned himself in.

Kelley previously pled guilty to Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree and Assault in the Third Degree. Like Smith, he also pled guilty to Failure to Appear in the First Degree. 

Both will be eligible for Alternative Incarceration Programs. In Oregon, the Alternative Incarceration Program (AIP) is an intensive prison program for select adults in custody to address criminal risk factors. Alternative incarceration was established by the 1993 Legislature with House Bill 2481, creating the Summit program. Ten years later, the 2003 Oregon Legislature authorized the Department of Corrections to establish residential AIPs that emphasize intensive alcohol and drug treatment (House Bill 2647).

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Afton Coppedge prosecuted the case for the state.

After the sentencing she said:

 “This case matters because there is a fentanyl epidemic in our community. We often think about fentanyl in the context of open air markets, people using on the streets and how it impacts individuals experiencing homelessness. But the reality is that there are children across this county who are living with fentanyl in their homes. And they are ingesting fentanyl at small levels and toxic levels. Kids need to be safe at home just like they need to be safe in the community. And so, we will hold people accountable even when that’s parents.”

Coppedge also commented on why the state asked the judge to reduce some of the extra prison time the parents agreed to before the original sentencing.

“It is a tragic case all around. There is no doubt in my mind that these parents love this child and that he loves them. Mr. Kelley and Ms. Smith knew the consequences of not showing up at the original sentencing and made that choice. I think that while the state wants to hold people accountable- we also recognize that when people ultimately make the right decision to turn themselves in as they did here, that there should be some acknowledgement for making good choices.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit of the Portland Police Bureau for their hard work and persistence investigating this case, and for their exhaustive efforts to locate the defendants when they failed to appear at sentencing. We would also like to recognize the work of MCDA Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera for her compassion and care offered during this case.

THE FACTS:

On June 25, 2023 a three year old boy woke up in his home in Multnomah County excited to watch cartoons with his grandmother. His parents had made the decision to bring fentanyl into their home. The child ingested some of it which led to a life altering brain injury.

DALLAS (OR) – Brian James Fouse, 37, has been sentenced to serve 22 months in prison for stealing over $200 of lottery tickets during a burglary at the Center Street Market in Dallas last October

Fouse, of Monmouth, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge Monte S. Campbell, after a jury found him guilty of Burglary in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, and Theft in the Second Degree. Fouse will also be required to serve a one year term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

After the sentencing, Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton said, “If you buy a lottery ticket you may win, but if you are caught stealing one in Polk County, you will most definitely lose.”

The case was investigated by the Dallas and Monmouth Police Departments. It was prosecuted and tried by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

DALLAS (OR) – James Michael Madden, of Keizer, has been sentenced to serve 75 months in prison by Polk County Circuit Court Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park after pleading guilty to two counts of sex abuse in the first degree involving a victim under the age of 14. Madden, 46, will also be required to serve a term of 45 months of Post-Prison Supervision and to register as a sex offender upon his release. The victim in this case was five years old at the time of the incident and under Madden’s care.

Madden, who was arrested at the Portland International Airport as he was attempting to flee the country, was in the Polk County Jail during sentencing.  Madden has previously been required to register as a sex offender due to prior convictions for possession of child pornography.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Shannon Clausen of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office and investigated by the Salem Police Department.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A California woman was sentenced to federal prison today for stealing nearly $1.3 million in Covid-relief program funds and failing to pay the IRS more than $700,000 in payroll taxes she collected from the employees of a small business in Salem, Oregon.

Jamie McGowen, 43, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $2,072,860 in restitution to the IRS and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

According to court documents, McGowen was the owner or partial owner of nine separate companies including Salem Outsourcing, Inc., a payroll processing company based in Salem. Between August 2016 and December 2019, McGowen provided payroll processing services to a small business also located in Salem. During this time, she failed to pay the IRS $705,613 in payroll taxes she withheld from the paychecks of the company’s employees. Instead, McGowen kept the money for herself and used a portion of the funds to, among other things, purchase a 100% ownership stake in the same company whose payroll taxes she had stolen.

In a separate scheme, between April 2020 and December 2021, McGowen stole more than $1.2 million from federal relief programs intended to help small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, and Restaurant Revitalization Fund. McGowen made numerous false statements in 15 separate loan applications, including by stating she did not own any other company, inflating the number of employees and revenues, and providing false tax documents. McGowen also falsely claimed on loan forgiveness applications that her companies had used the funds received for payroll. In reality, McGowen transferred the money around her businesses, to her father, and to her personal checking account, and paid off personal credit cards.

On October 12, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging McGowen with wire fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering. On December 11, 2024, she pleaded guilty to one count each of wire fraud and bank fraud, and two counts of money laundering.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG) and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). It was prosecuted by Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—The owner of a local real estate investment company pleaded guilty today for his role in an $18 million fraud scheme, joining his business partner and co-owner of the company who pleaded guilty in March 2025.

Robert D. Christensen, 55, of Sherwood, Oregon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.

Previously, on March 11, 2025, Christensen’s partner and co-owner of the investment company, Anthony M. Matic, 55, of Damascus, Oregon, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

According to court documents, from approximately January 2019 through June 2023, Christensen and Matic devised and carried out a scheme wherein they convinced individual investors to fund the purchase and renovation of undervalued residential real estate properties. After renovating the properties, Christensen and Matic claimed they would rent the properties to generate income and then refinance them to extract their increased value from the renovations. The pair further misled investors into believing they would be repaid their full principal investment along with interest as high as eight to fifteen percent and a large lump sum payout, all within periods as short as 30 to 90 days.

Christensen and Matic’s scheme failed to generate the promised returns almost immediately and they began using new investments to repay earlier investors to keep their business afloat. When they were unable to raise enough money from new investors, Christensen and Matic devised a separate scheme to defraud commercial lenders. By December 2020, the pair began submitting loan applications with false financial information to different commercial lenders and, based on their misrepresentations, received millions of dollars in loans.

In total, Christensen and Matic’s two schemes defrauded individual investors out of more than $11 million and commercial lenders out of more than $7 million.

Conspiracy to commit wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Money laundering in punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Both charges may also result in fines of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense.

Christensen and Matic will both be sentenced on October 14, 2025.

This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Trisotto.

# # #

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Grants Pass, Oregon, man is facing federal charges for trafficking fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm, announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Christopher Smith, 38, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to the complaint, approximately one year ago, investigators with the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) task force and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) obtained information that Smith was actively distributing fentanyl throughout Josephine County, Oregon from his residence in Grants Pass. On May 9, 2025, investigators executed a state search warrant on Smith’s residence where they located and seized approximately 400 grams of fentanyl, two digital scales with fentanyl residue, two 3D printers, two ghost guns, 74 additional firearms, and an unmarked firearm suppressor. Smith was present during the search and placed under arrest.

Smith made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.

This case was investigated by RADE and DEA and is being prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

RADE a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. RADE includes members from Oregon State Police, the Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Probation & Parole, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

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.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A known leader of Portland’s 18^th Street Gang was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison Friday for his leadership role in a local drug trafficking conspiracy and for possessing a weapon while in federal prison.

Noah Herrera, 26, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, Herrera was a second-in-command leader of the 18th Street Gang in Portland, working regularly with the gang’s local leader, Gustavo Torres-Mendez, who was sentenced in May 2024 to 164 months in federal prison. Together, the two men led various gang-driven activities including trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl in the Portland area. During this time, the 18th Street Gang was heavily armed and sold drugs acquired near the Mexico border in California to local buyers in and around Portland.

The government’s investigation exposed several major episodes in the gang’s activities. In August 2022, agents seized nearly nine pounds of methamphetamine after Herrera organized a transaction in Portland. Only weeks later, in early September 2022, federal agents monitoring the two leaders’ activities learned they and subordinate 18th Street Gang members had collected over $126,000 in cash after which Herrera and Torres-Mendez dispatched two members to California to purchase and pick up drugs. Agents monitored the return of the load vehicle, which was stopped near Grants Pass, Oregon, and over 104 pounds of methamphetamine and a smaller quantity of cocaine were seized. The methamphetamine was packaged in 56 separate plastic food containers.

On November 17, 2022, agents arrested Herrera and executed a search warrant at his Vancouver, Washington, home, where they found two loaded Glock pistols, ammunition, additional quantities of drugs, two scales with drug residue, a drug ledger, over $5000 in cash and several cell phones.

Agents also executed a search warrant at a residence in North Portland which had been used by the 18th Street Gang throughout the investigation as a meeting place and stash house. There, agents found and seized ten handguns in locations throughout the main rooms, a short-barreled shotgun, extended magazines, ammunition, body armor as well as additional drug evidence, packaging equipment and scales.

On September 25, 2023, while housed at FCI Sheridan pending trial, prison guards found Herrera in possession of a shiv (a six-inch sharpened piece of metal) prohibited by federal law.

On January 10, 2025, Herrera pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine, and possessing a dangerous weapon in a federal facility.

This case was investigated by the FBI and was prosecuted by Thomas H. Edmonds and Nicole M. Bockelman, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit www.justice.gov/ocdetf.

# # #

HILLSBORO, Ore- On April 30, 2025, a Washington County jury found Teresa Louise Biswanath guilty of criminally negligent homicide. On May 9, 2025, Judge Erik Buchér sentenced the defendant to two years in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case.
 

On August 30, 2022, an 11-month-old child died while under the care of the defendant, who was running an unlicensed in-home daycare. The defendant previously worked at a well-known childcare center where she underwent extensive training, including safe sleeping techniques for infants. That training precluded the practice of infant swaddling, and the defendant told police she followed that same policy at her business.
 

On the day of the child’s death, the defendant was caring for five children, including the victim. During nap time, the defendant squeezed the victim into a swaddle much too small for his size, one designed for newborns less than three months old who could not roll over or crawl as he could. She used straps to bind the child’s arms and put a pacifier with a 6-inch stuffed animal attached into his mouth.
 

The defendant initially tried to get the child to sleep in the same room with the other children, but eventually took him to a bedroom on the second floor of the home. She placed him facedown on the bed with his arms constrained by the swaddle and the pacifier in his mouth. The victim was upstairs for at least one hour as the defendant was in and out of the bedroom. The defendant left to check on the other children and when she returned to the upstairs room, she found the victim blue and unresponsive. She attempted to perform CPR while her husband called an ambulance. First responders were unable to revive the child.
 

Deaths related to an unsafe sleep environment are a leading cause of preventable child fatality nationwide, including in Washington County. To address this issue, the Washington County Child Abuse MDT has partnered with the National Cribs for Kids Program to provide free crib kits to eligible families residing in Washington County. In addition to providing a free portable crib and educational materials, community partners from the Washington County Public Health Maternal, Child & Family Program and the Healthy Families Program will work with eligible families to provide safe sleep education and distribute cribs. Please visit our website to learn more about this effort.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office sends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones.
 

In addition to her prison sentence, the defendant is barred from ever operating a licensed childcare center. She will also serve three years of post-prison supervision and was ordered to have no contact with the victim’s family.

Portland, OR (May 13, 2025) – Point West Credit Union is excited to announce the promotion of Mariely Flores to the role of Vice President of Operations. In just over a year with the credit union, Mariely has quickly proven herself to be a thoughtful and values-driven leader, bringing her extensive experience and deep commitment to cooperative principles into every interaction.

Mariely joined Point West as Remote Branch Manager and immediately stood out for her ability to implement positive change within the call center and lead with empathy. With over a decade of managerial experience in operations with financial institutions, Ms. Flores consistently fosters innovation and operational excellence. Her passion for Point West and its mission is clear, and her leadership has already made a meaningful impact.

“Mariely impressed us throughout every step of our vetting process—not just for her qualifications, but for the heart and commitment she brings to Point West,” says Amy Nelson, President/CEO of Point West Credit Union. “It’s clear she genuinely cares about our members, our mission, and the people behind the work we do. Her leadership helps guide our North Star, and we’re excited to see how she continues to shape the future of our operations and our cooperative.”

“From day one, I knew Point West was different. In the best way.” says Mariely Flores. “I’m honored to step into this leadership role and continue serving our members and staff with compassion, transparency, and purpose. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that not only talks about inclusion and equity, but lives it every day.”

About Point West Credit Union
Point West Credit Union is 100% not-for-profit, member-owned and headquartered in Portland, Oregon. With a bilingual staff ready to help its members achieve financial empowerment, Point West works with its community partners to bring inclusion and equity to the underserved and needed capital to local microenterprise businesses—all with an unwavering commitment to its members and cooperative development. Find out more and join Point West today at https://www.pointwestcu.com/.

Program continues to transform lives by removing financial barriers to higher education

Salem, Ore., May 16, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College is proud to announce the selection of 729 outstanding high school seniors as recipients of the Chemeketa Scholars award for Fall 2025. This prestigious scholarship covers up to two years of full-time tuition at Chemeketa, enabling students to pursue either transfer degrees or career technical education without the burden of tuition debt.

To qualify, students must reside within the college’s district, maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher, and enroll full time at Chemeketa immediately following high school graduation. The scholarship—valued at more than $10,000—was created in 2008 and has since helped thousands of students in the Mid-Willamette Valley achieve their academic and career goals.

“Chemeketa Community College is proud to recognize the academic excellence that these students have achieved,” said Ryan West, Executive Dean of Student Affairs. “We appreciate the investment that our local community has made to Chemeketa Community College, and it is our honor to be able to contribute back to this community by providing these scholarships to these outstanding students.”

This year’s recipients represent a broad spectrum of schools throughout the region, including public high schools, private institutions, charter academies, and homeschooled students. Schools with 20 or more Chemeketa Scholars include:

Amity High School – 22 recipients
 

Cascade High School – 27 recipients
 

Central High School – 47 recipients
 

Dallas High School – 22 recipients
 

Dayton High School – 21 recipients
 

McKay High School – 32 recipients
 

McMinnville High School – 67 recipients
 

McNary High School – 88 recipients
 

North Salem High School – 43 recipients
 

Silverton High School – 34 recipients
 

South Salem High School – 50 recipients
 

Sprague High School – 48 recipients
 

Stayton High School – 23 recipients
 

West Salem High School – 65 recipients
 

Woodburn High School – 24 recipients

By supporting the Chemeketa Scholars program, the college and community partners are investing in a stronger future—one where students can access higher education, gain workforce-ready skills, and graduate with minimal or no debt.

For more information about the Chemeketa Scholars program, visit: go.chemeketa.edu/scholars

####

Free festival culminates in a full day of workshops designed for writers 

VANCOUVER, Wash.— The English department at Clark College hosts its annual Creative Writing Festival from May 27-31. The event, which is free and open to the public, features activities geared for writers and readers at all levels. The festival allows writers to immerse themselves in workshops and readings by renowned authors. It will culminate with the Spring Writing Workshop on Saturday, May 31, with a full day of workshops for writers.

All events will be in the Penguin Union Building (PUB) on Clark College's main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.  Directions and maps are available online.

Creative Writing Festival Schedule:

May 27, 10 am–Noon, PUB258: 
Reading & Conversation with New York Times bestselling young adult and adult fiction author Emiko Jean

May 28, 10 am–Noon, PUB161: 
“The Swift” release party with student readings and a celebration of the publication of the 3^rd edition of Clark's student-run literary journal

May 29, 10–11 am, PUB258:
Columbia Writers Series Fiction Reading: Chelsea Bieker

May 29, 3-4 pm, Cannell Library:
Book release celebration for Clark Professor Gerry Smith’s collaborative project Coyote and Bear Discuss Modern Art

May 30, 11am–Noon, PUB258: 
Yoga for Creativity

May 31, 10 am–5 pm, Penguin Union Building:
Spring Writing Workshop: A full day of writing workshops, readings, and community building. Includes free lunch, coffee, and pastries.  Reserve your free tickets here.

Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds. If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu/.

For a detailed schedule and listing of the Writing Workshop, please check here:

Opening Remarks by Susan Dingle, the current Clark County Poet Laurate. Dingle earned a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is the author of two books: In Pilgram Drag, published by Finishing Line Press and Parting Gifts, published by Local Gems. Dingle earned a Master of Social Work degree at SUNY Stony Brook University and is a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol and substance abuse counselor.

Workshop: Letters and Poems, Poems and Letters with Jeff Alessandrelli, a writer and editor living in Portland. The Kenyon Review called his most recent poetry collection Fur Not Light “an example of radical humility."  Jeff Alessandrelli is the author of the novel  And Yet. In addition to his writing Jeff also directs and co-edits the non-profit record label/book press Fonograf Editions. 

Workshop: Writing with Ghosts in the Archival Machine with Katy Anastasi (she/her), a Reference & Instruction Librarian at Clark College and a graduate student at Eastern Oregon University’s MFA in Creative Writing program. In this generative, open-genre craft workshop, participants will explore various library and archival materials with sensitivity to ghosts in the archival machine. 

Workshop: Writing the Magical, Writing the Real: On Making Magical Stories Believable with Emme Lund, an author living and writing in Portland, OR. She has an MFA from Mills College. Her debut novel, The Boy with a Bird in His Chest (Atria Books, 2022) was longlisted for the First Novel Prize from the Center For Fiction, was a finalist for an Oregon Book Award, was named a best book of the year by Buzzfeed and The Portland Mercury, and was included on lists in The Washington Post, USA Today, People Magazine, The Advocate, Cosmopolitan, and Shondaland. 

Workshop: Talk Short to Me with Elena Passarello, whose essays on performance, pop culture, and the natural world have been translated into six languages. Her recent work appears in the New York Times Book Review, Paris Review, Audubon and Best American Science and Nature Writing.  She is the author of two collections, the most recent of which, Animals Strike Curious Poses, was a New York Times Editor’s Choice. Her next book, about the spotty legacy of Elvis Presley, is forthcoming from Penguin Press in 2027. You can hear Elena every week on the nationally syndicated public radio program Live Wire! This class works through a few of Carson's short talks and closes with a generative prompt to get you started on a Talk of your own.

Workshop: ‘As You Know, Captain…’ Avoiding Infodump in Speculative Fiction with Joe Pitkin. Pitkin has lived, taught, and studied in England, Hungary, Mexico, and at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington. His short stories have appeared in The Boston Review, Analog, Black Static, Cosmos, and other magazines and podcasts, as well as on his blog, The Subway Test. Stranger Bird, his first novel, was published in 2017; his most recent novel, Exit Black, was published by Blackstone last year. 

Workshop: Character Development: A Generative Tarot Writing Journey with Selah Saterstrom, the author of the innovative novels Slab, The Meat and Spirit Plan, and The Pink Institution, as well as two nonfiction collections, Rancher and the award-winning Ideal Suggestions: Essays in Divinatory Poetics. Selah Saterstrom is the co-founder of Four Queens Divination, an online platform dedicated to the intersection of creative writing and divinatory arts, where she offers classes and mentorship. 

Workshop: Zenyatta Mondatta with Ed Skoogm, the author of four collections of poetry, Mister Skylight, Rough Day, Run the Red Lights, and Travelers Leaving for the City. His poems have appeared in The New Yorker, Harper's Magazine, The New Republic, American Poetry Review, and the Best American Poetry series. This generative poetry workshop will focus on how poems can sound amazing and memorable, with language that resonates before it even means. 

Workshop: Poetry and Art: Ekphrastic Poetry with Gerald Donnelly Smith, who has published poems in various literary journals including The Adirondack Review, hummingbird, River Wind, Icon, and Talking Leaves as well as the anthologies War (Green Haven, 2007), The X-Y Experience (2001), and Playing with a Full Deck. He served as the director of the Columbia Writers Series at Clark College for seven years. In this workshop, we will review the different methods for writing poetry about artwork, focusing on painting. We will briefly discuss example poems about Van Gogh's "Starry Night.”  

Workshop: Multidisciplinary Workshop: Reading & Writing with Images by Dao Strom, a poet, musician, writer, and interdisciplinary artist who works with three “voices”—written, sung, visual—to explore hybridity and the intersection of personal and collective histories. She is the author/composer of several hybrid-literary works, including the poetry-art collection, INSTRUMENT, and its musical companion of song-poems, TRAVELER’S ODE, and the forthcoming TENDER REVOLUTIONS/YELLOW SONGS (2025). Recently, she co-edited/co-curated the hybrid-literary anthology + exhibit A MOUTH HOLDS MANY THINGS (2024). Strom’s work encompasses both solo and collaborative art and writing projects, and has received support from the Creative Capital Foundation, NEA, Oregon Community Foundation, and others. 

Workshop: Multidisciplinary Workshop: Reading & Writing with Images by Dr. Tara Williams (she/her), who earned her MFA in Fiction at Fresno State University. She also holds a masters and doctorate in education. Currently she teaches composition and literature courses at Clark. Her literary work has appeared in Southwest Review, Tales of the Fantastic, Fatal Flaw, and other publications, and her short stories have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net. An excerpt from her novel-in-progress won an honorable mention for the Plentitudes Prize, and an audio adaptation of one of her short stories took second place in Sycamore Review’s Deanna Tulley Multimedia Contest. Her work is also included in the climate fiction anthology Fire & Water: Stories of the Anthropocene (Black Lawrence Press, 2021).

Workshop: The Poetry of Memoir by Jane Wong, the author of the memoir Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City (Tin House, 2023), winner of the Washington State Book Award. She also wrote two poetry collections: How to Not Be Afraid of Everything (Alice James, 2021) and Overpour (Action Books, 2016). She is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize and fellowships and residencies from the U.S. Fulbright Program, Harvard's Woodberry Poetry Room, Artist Trust, Hedgebrook, Ucross, Loghaven, the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund, and others. An interdisciplinary artist as well, she has exhibited her poetry installations and performances at the Frye Art Museum, Richmond Art Gallery, and the Asian Art Museum. She grew up in a take-out restaurant on the Jersey shore and is an Associate Professor at Western Washington University. 

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

####

HILLSBORO, Ore. – A collective effort to help youth find their path this summer is underway at Portland Community College. The Washington County Youth Opportunities Summer Summit returns to the Willow Creek Opportunity Center (241 SW Edgeway Drive, Hillsboro) from 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, May 28.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is made possible through a collaboration with WorkSource Oregon, event sponsor Worksystems Inc., and other partners. Organizers will offer students – and prospective students – information on PCC short-term training options, plus, resume workshops, summer jobs, paid internships and introductions to local employers.

“We’re offering a range of exciting opportunities tailored specifically for youth ages 17 to 24,” said DaNene Dwyer, director of the Willow Creek Opportunity Center. “Whether they are searching for a summer job, an internship, or exploring career and technical education, we have resources available to help them make an informed choice.”

This summit was last held before the pandemic in 2019. Organizers anticipate about 200 students from Washington County high schools will attend, along with community members. The event will include a showcase of employers, training providers and career consultants in fields such as health care, technology and manufacturing.

PCC’s Opportunity Centers serve as local hubs that bring together people, employers and community partners to transform lives. The expert team at Willow Creek is committed to helping individuals explore careers, build skills, gain confidence, and succeed in their education and career goals.

For more information, visit pcc.edu/opportunity-center.

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.

###

HILLSBORO, Ore. – That’s a wrap! Literally.

Portland Community College recently unveiled the new livery for its training aircraft – a Bombardier Q400 commercial propeller plane – just in time for the Oregon International Air Show. In 2022, Horizon Air flew the Q400 to the Hillsboro Airport and donated the former commercial aircraft to the PCC Foundation to provide students in the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program with real-world training.

The airplane will be open for tours on both Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18 of the airshow and hosted by PCC and Horizon Air.

Soon, the Q400 will be used for hands-on instruction on modern engine and avionics technologies. The aircraft will provide PCC students with the chance to conduct – system servicing, wheel, brake, and tire changing, turbine engine run/ops check, airframe inspections, power plant inspections, ice and rain protection, air conditioning and pressurization, indicating and recording, autoflight (autopilot systems) and auxiliary power unit operation, inspection, and servicing.

“It is rare for an aviation maintenance school to have such a modern commercial aircraft for training,” said Tom Laxson, faculty chair of the Aviation Maintenance Technology Program. “It exposes students to technologies that are otherwise exclusive to tenured professionals of commercial aviation. Even just the aircraft’s maintenance manuals have had a significant modernizing effect on our offered training.”

PCC, and schools like it in the country, is the primary means by which the aviation industry gains new aviation maintenance workers in the region. The Oregon Employment Department reports Portland area aviation service technicians can earn a starting annual salary of $85,993, and a report by Boeing indicated a dire shortage of trained workers in the field.

“It’s critical to have hands-on experience for our students, and we’re doing that with this donation for aviation maintenance,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “Collaboration and partnership with the community make great things happen.”

The plane’s presence at the airport is a continuation of strong industry and community partnerships PCC has developed to strengthen its career-technical education (CTE) training. In 2020, the college partnered with the Hillsboro School District, Oregon Air Show Charitable Foundation and other key partners to create the dual-credit Oregon Aerospace Careers for Everyone (O-ACE) Program for high school students interested in careers as aviation maintenance technicians, avionics technicians or professional pilots. 

In 2021, AMT entered into a partnership with Horizon Air called the Horizon Technician Development Program, providing students with industry-relevant training and employment opportunities.

“Our relationship with PCC is extremely strong,” said Archie Vega, Director of Line/Base Maintenance and Student Development with Horizon Air.

Wendy Wright, a senior graphic designer for the foundation and a graduate of PCC's Graphic Design Program, created the livery. Her creative design took between 150-200 hours to develop and included a fuselage wrap and a new blue color scheme for the tail.

"People don't realize all of the 'behind the curtain' things that happen to make something so incredibly complex look so simple," Wright said. "I also loved the collaboration that it took to get to this point. This plane not only helps one of our many programs at the college but is a huge gift to the entire college."

Wright's involvement symbolizes how involved the PCC Foundation is with providing resources for CTE programs like AMT. The foundation has three aviation-related scholarships to fund student success and program training, and has collectively awarded $24,400 to AMT students during the 2024-25 academic year.

For more information on PCC's Aviation Maintenance Technology, visit https://www.pcc.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance/ 

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.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 7:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025.  
This meeting will be held in person in the MESD Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle.

There is also a Zoom link available for those that need to attend virtually.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85173688058?pwd=vw7Hec1GueO625F4a9qYCMKYoV7Zbh.1
Passcode:717461

 A public hearing will be held by the Tax Supervising and Conservation Commission on the budget approved by the budget committee for the Multnomah Education Service District, Multnomah County, State of Oregon, for the fiscal year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.  

The hearing will be held May 20th, 2025 at 6:00pm.  This meeting will be in a hybrid format: in person in the Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland, OR 97220 as well as virtually via Zoom.

Zoom link:

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/88643940753?pwd=YwlhJyFm9QQb9Qmyox91spCSFvw6ZQ.1

Webinar ID: 886 4394 0753

Passcode: 880056

The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the budget with interested persons.  A copy of the budget document may be viewed on the MESD website: www.multnomahesd.org/departments/business-services.

The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities.  A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

Public comment will be taken.  For in-person comment, complete the request form on the table outside the Board Room and provide any notes or handouts to the Board Secretary prior to the meeting.  Schedule Zoom comment up through 5:00 pm May 20, 2025 by providing your name, phone number, and address.  All comments are subject to a three minute limit per community member.

For meeting accommodations or to submit or schedule public comment, please contact Heather Severns at 503-257-1504 or hseverns@mesd.k12.or.us.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on May 14, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/81372297812?pwd=6UUOCXHMFJII4oJIibGjSbkOFkZAJu.1
Passcode:582756

Raising Readers Begins at Birth — Seaside Elementary Student Helps Inspire Families, Child Care Providers with Toolkits Featuring Her Artwork

ASTORIA – Mously Mbathie, an eight-year-old from Seaside, was recently selected as the winner of a county-wide art contest. Her submission features her standing among all of her favorite book characters. There’s a bespectacled elephant named Gerald, Raggedy Ann with her bright red hair, Barbie in a pink dress and a vested alligator named Brash. 

“They make me feel like they are always with me,” Mously says about her winning submission.  

Mously was one of dozens of students who entered a county-wide art contest called “Inspired to Read.”  

The contest was part of a wider campaign -- dubbed How to Raise a Reader -- developed by the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub to promote early literacy. Students were invited to share what they love about reading and what it means to them. 

Using the artwork from the contest winners, the hub team developed a toolkit to help parents and child care providers promote early reading skills. 

Brain science tells us children start developing literacy skills the moment they’re born and not once they start going to school as some people might think. That means families and child care providers are the ones helping children develop those early skills that will set them up for success once they reach kindergarten. 

Following these tips is not complicated or time-consuming, but learning to follow them does take practice. 

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

The Clatsop County Appreciation Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND
 

• Captain Robert Gray School (785 Alameda Avenue Astoria OR 97103)

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. But here’s a recap: 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

Raising Readers Begins at Birth — Nestucca Valley 8-Year-Old Helps Inspire Families, Child Care Providers with Toolkits Featuring Her Artwork

TILLAMOOK – If you ask Aaliyah, an 8-year-old from Nestucca Valley, who inspired her to read, she’ll tell her it was her mom. 

“She gave me courage to read by myself,” Aaliyah says. 

So when her after-school program invited students to participate in a Tillamook County-based art contest all about reading, Aaliyah knew right away who she would draw. 

In the center of her submission is her mom and surrounding her are pink and read hearts with open pages and a stack of books. This aspiring park ranger from this coastal Oregon town was surprised to learn her entry was selected among dozens from her region. Not even her mom knew about it and said later she was so honored her daughter thought of her that way. 

The contest was part of a wider campaign -- dubbed How to Raise a Reader -- developed by the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub to promote early literacy. Students were invited to share what they love about reading and what it means to them. 

Using the artwork from the contest winners, the hub team developed a toolkit to help parents and child care providers promote early reading skills. 

Brain science tells us children start developing literacy skills the moment they’re born and not once they start going to school as some people might think. That means families and child care providers are the ones helping children develop those early skills that will set them up for success once they reach kindergarten. 

Following these tips is not complicated or time-consuming, but learning to follow them does take practice. 

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

A Tillamook County Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND
 

• Child Care Resource & Referral Building (1315 3rd Street Tillamook, OR 97141)

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. But here’s a recap: 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

Raising Readers Begins at Birth — Clatskanie High Schooler Helps Inspire Families, Child Care Providers with Toolkits Featuring Her Artwork

ST. HELENS – Grace Hadley, a 15-year-old from Clatskanie, loves reading dystopian, fantasy and historical fiction books. She also loves penning stories — so when she heard about a recent county-wide art contest, she decided to create artwork to go along with one of her stories. 

Using colored pencils, she drew her characters in a bleak forested winterscape. Birds play heavily in her storylines, too. “Hawks represent power and the throne, while owls represent wiseness and magic,” Grace says. 

She was delighted to find out her submission was selected from among dozens of submissions as the winner of the “Inspired to Read Art Contest.” 

The contest was part of a wider campaign — dubbed How to Raise a Reader — developed by the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub to promote early literacy. Students were invited to share what they love about reading and what it means to them. 

Using the artwork from the contest winners, the hub team developed a toolkit to help parents and child care providers promote early reading skills. 

Brain science tells us children start developing literacy skills the moment they’re born and not once they start going to school as some people might think. That means families and child care providers are the ones helping children develop those early skills that will set them up for success once they reach kindergarten. 

Following these tips is not complicated or time-consuming, but learning to follow them does take practice. 

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

A Columbia County Appreciation Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND

• Grant Watts Elementary School (52000 SE 3rd Place Scappoose, Oregon 97056) 

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

Battle Ground High School's theater program is excited to present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s musical "Cinderella” for their final production of the year.

"This show is a labor of love and our cast has poured many hours into learning the songs and choreography," said Liz Hix, director and language arts teacher. "I'm also excited about our set. I'm hoping the simplicity of it will capture the magic and nostalgia of listening to a bedtime story."

"I think it's just so magical, and it's gonna really come together," said Lyric Hawkins, a senior participating in the production. "When everyone dances together, it becomes so beautiful," agreed fellow senior Atlas Arnold, a flower girl and ensemble cast member.

"Cinderella" tells the story of a young woman who lives a life of servitude under her stepmother and stepsisters until the king announces a royal ball to find a wife for the prince. With the help of her fairy godmother and animal friends, Cinderella charms the prince, leaving behind a glass slipper as she flees at midnight.

"I think they're gonna be enticed by the magic that we're bringing into it,” said freshman Josh Postupak, who plays The Herald. “And I hope my role gives them lots of laughs." Postupak is a veteran of more than a dozen productions at Chief Umtuch Middle School and Journey Theater group.

Showtimes will be 7 p.m. on Friday, May 23 and 30, and 2:30 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 24 and 31. Tickets are $10 for general admission or $7 for students, available online in advance at https://wa-battleground-lite.intouchreceipting.com/BGDrama or at the door. Performances will be in The Lair at Battle Ground High School, 300 W. Main St., Battle Ground.

Children who will be 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2025 are eligible to attend kindergarten next fall. Online enrollment is available now. Parents/guardians are encouraged to enroll their child as soon as possible and participate in kindergarten orientations happening this month.

2025 kindergarten orientation dates:

• Captain Strong: May 20, 4:30 - 6:15 p.m.

• Daybreak: May 20, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

• Glenwood Heights: May 22, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

• Maple Grove: May 22, 5 - 6 p.m.

• Pleasant Valley: May 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

• Tukes Valley: May 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

• Yacolt: May 22, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Parents/guardians will need proof of their child's birth date (such as a birth certificate) and a signed and completed Washington state certificate of immunization status form or certificate of exemption. Please note that the state of Washington requires that immunization records be medically verified. Families can find out which school their child will attend by using the Clark County Property Information Center or by calling the district boundaries office at 360-885-6577.

Jump Start canceled

Please note that, due to the recent double levy failure and resulting budget cuts, Jump Start Kindergarten is unfortunately canceled for the 2025-26 school year. We understand that this may be disappointing news for families who were looking forward to this opportunity. Please know that we remain committed to helping your child have a successful start to their kindergarten experience. More information will be shared during kindergarten orientations.

Alternative kindergarten options

Battle Ground Public Schools’ K-12 alternative learning experiences also offer early learning opportunities: 

Battle Ground Virtual Academy is an online learning option that uses a web-based curriculum with interactive activities, videos and workbooks. All curriculum is provided and lessons are delivered online. Students receive 30 hours of learning activities per week, as well as one classroom experience per week, either in person or virtually.

River HomeLink offers two half-day in-person kindergarten classes along with three days of at-home instruction. All curriculum materials are provided. Parents are asked to volunteer as a classroom assistant two days per week. 

River also offers PrimeLink, where families can receive weekly advice and assistance on planning, implementing and reporting on their child’s home-based instruction. Parents also have the option of selecting their own at-home curriculum from a list of approved options and taking advantage of a one-time consultation to assist with setting up the at-home learning environment. Students in all ALE programs still have the option of taking elective classes at their neighborhood school.

Before and after-school care

The district has partnered with Right At School to provide before- and after-school care at its primary schools from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day that school is in session.

Preschool options

Battle Ground Public Schools also offers preschool options for early learners. Prairie High School, Battle Ground High School and the BGPS Community Education Department offer tuition-based preschool programs for ages 3-5. Battle Ground Public Schools also offers early intervention programs and services for children ages 3-5 who are identified for special education services. Learn more and compare options.

Earlier this year, the Washington State Auditor’s Office spent more than 340 hours reviewing Battle Ground Public Schools’ finances. The results of the three audits recently became available. The state auditor confirmed that BGPS followed state laws and district policies approved by elected school board members. Moreover, public funds were well-managed and protected. The audit revealed no fraud, significant errors or misuse of funds.

Accountability audit

As part of an accountability audit, the auditor reviewed activity from Sept. 1, 2023, through Aug. 31, 2024, in the following areas:

• Payroll

• Associated Student Body activities, including fundraising

• Use of restricted funds for professional development

• Use of local levy dollars for enrichment activities

• Compliance with supplemental contracts for enrichment activities

• Compliance with laws for construction projects 

• Compliance with laws regarding public meetings

• Financial condition of the district

The state auditor issued a clean accountability report for the district. This is the 14th consecutive clean accountability report that the district has received since 2010.

Financial statements and federal audits

In addition to conducting an accountability audit, the state also reviewed the district’s financial statements and compliance with federal laws and regulations during the same time period. Auditors found that the district has satisfactory internal financial controls and meets the requirements for financial reporting. 

An analysis of the district’s use of federal grant money, specifically Title I grants and COVID-19 funds, showed that BGPS is in compliance with all requirements. See the full report on the financial statement and federal audits. 

This is the 21st consecutive clean financial statement audit for BGPS since 2005. The district’s last federal grant finding was in 2023, when the state auditor determined that the district unknowingly did not maintain proper records of how it allocated funds from the federal Emergency Connectivity Fund, which helped purchase Chromebooks for students during the pandemic. 

As noted by State Auditor Pat McCarthy, the FCC’s guidance to schools lacked detailed descriptions of the type of records schools should maintain to document their compliance with the grant requirements. BGPS estimated student need for the devices at the time of its grant application, inventoried all Chromebooks and retained data on student use of the devices. 

Since the 2023 finding, the Federal Communications Commission, which administered the fund, reviewed the state audit and the district’s response. The FCC issued a final determination, ruling that Battle Ground did indeed comply with the rules of the fund. The commission will not seek to recover any money and now considers the matter to be resolved. 

Other financial accountability measures

In addition to participating in annual state audits, Battle Ground Public Schools has an audit committee that meets monthly to review expenditures including payroll, timesheets and vendor invoices. The committee includes two board directors. Audit committee findings are presented at regular board meetings, which are open to the public. 

Additional indicators of district financial health

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction also monitors all Washington state school districts’ finances. OSPI recently awarded Battle Ground a score of 3.35 out of 4.0 for the 2023-24 school year, the most recent for which scores are available. The average score for all other K-12 Clark County school districts that year was 2.64. 

The scores are intended to provide a snapshot of a school district’s financial health over time. Higher scores indicate greater financial stability and ability to respond to unexpected expenditures. Learn more.

On May 13, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the May 2025 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Gabriel Mahlberg, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Gabriel is a kind, patient, and deeply understanding young learner who approaches each day with curiosity and wonder. He is always eager to ask thoughtful questions—especially “but why?”—which reflects his genuine desire to understand the world around him. His natural inquisitiveness enriches our classroom discussions and encourages his peers to think more deeply as well. Gabriel also takes great pride in participating in all of our classroom jobs. He completes them not only with enthusiasm but also as a model of responsibility and positivity, inspiring others through his actions. His leadership is quiet yet impactful and rooted in kindness and respect for others. We are truly grateful for Gabriel whose warmth and light brighten every corner of our classroom. He is a joy to teach and a gift to our learning community. 

Oliver McPherson, Kindergarten at Union Ridge Elementary School

Oliver has been a shining star in kindergarten this year! At the start of the year, he was a little shy, but he quickly came out of his shell and showed everyone his kind heart and bright smile. Oliver is always polite, helpful, and ready to jump in — whether it’s sharing his crayons, helping clean up, or cheering on a friend. He works hard on his assignments and takes pride in doing his best. His cheerful spirit and caring nature have helped him make great friends. Oliver's teacher, Andrea McCain, shared, "I am so proud of how much Oliver has grown this year; he truly makes our classroom a happier and fun place to be!" 

Marlon Araujo Burciaga, 2nd grade at South Ridge Elementary School
Marlon deserves to be recognized as South Ridge’s Student of the Month because he works so hard to demonstrate the 3 Rs every day—he is respectful, responsible, and resilient. Marlon approaches each day with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic, giving his best effort to achieve his goals, even when things are hard. He shows true resilience when faced with difficult tasks every day. His determination to grow as a student is especially evident in reading, where his hard work is paying off—he has made remarkable progress and continues to impress with his growth. Marlon is a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated and driven student at South Ridge, and is a joy to have at school!

Holden Crain, 5th grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Holden Crain is a truly inspiring member of our school community. Every day, Holden approaches challenges with determination, joy, and a positive spirit that brightens the lives of those around him. Whether working hard on his therapy bike or using his sit-to-stand device, his perseverance is remarkable. He lights up when greeted, responding with genuine excitement that instantly warms hearts. Holden’s depth of understanding and compassion continually impresses everyone who has the privilege of knowing him. His thoughtfulness is sincere—he often asks about situations he’s heard about, showing a level of care that is truly heartwarming. Holden also loves hearing from his classmates about their activities both in and outside of school, always taking an interest in others' lives. Academically, Holden puts in tremendous effort and eagerly shares his thoughts during group lessons. His love for learning, combined with his enthusiastic participation, makes him a valued member of every classroom he’s part of. Known for his friendly smile and positive attitude, Holden is well-loved by his peers and brings happiness to our school each day. He is a shining example of perseverance, kindness, and community spirit.

Sophia Vasquez, 8th grade at View Ridge Middle School

Sophia's teachers had so much to say about how deserving she is of this recognition. She consistently goes above and beyond in both academics and character. With her outstanding work ethic, positive attitude and unwavering commitment to excellence, she embodies the very best of what it means to be a VRMS student. Mr. Hagensen highlights Sophia’s “incredible energy” in the STEM classroom. He says she’s always asking thoughtful questions, tackling tough problems head-on, and showing true enthusiasm for learning. Her curiosity and strong work ethic make her a standout student. Mr. Broeckel praises Sophia’s academic focus and determination, noting the top-notch quality she puts into every assignment, project, and presentation. Her active participation and insightful contributions in class discussions set an excellent example for her peers. Mrs. Ballman echoes these sentiments, calling Sophia an outstanding student who treats others with kindness and never gives up, even when faced with challenges. She is a wonderful part of our VRMS community. In choir, Mrs. Whetsell commends Sophia for her diligence, commitment, and going the extra mile. Whether it’s staying on task or stepping out of her comfort zone to try for a solo, Sophia brings such a positive attitude and tireless effort to everything she does. Finally, Mr. Kotsovos describes Sophia as both hardworking and kind. Her consistent engagement and maximum effort truly make her deserving of this honor. Sophia, your teachers and the entire VRMS community are proud of you and we celebrate your excellence, leadership, and dedication!

Firefly Krawczyk, 11th grade at Ridgefield High School

Across the many settings within our school—classrooms, clubs, creative spaces, and beyond—Firefly has brought an extraordinary blend of intellect, creativity, humor, and heart. Firefly’s presence at RHS is nothing short of a delight. They have an unmatched talent for connecting course content to their own interests, resulting in work that is both insightful and wonderfully original. As Ms. Lacey shared, “Firefly, your quirky brilliance brought light to every lesson, and you remind all of us that learning can be deeply meaningful and joyful.” Mr. Rinard shared a similar feeling: “Firefly approaches math with a thoughtful calm, always willing to support others while never losing their own sense of curiosity and wonder.” And then, there’s the Firefly that shines outside the bounds of a syllabus—the one who leads with compassion and unshakable integrity. Whether it’s their leadership in Art Club, their problem-solving in technical theatre, or their spontaneous wit that leaves the room smiling, Firefly gives fully of themself in every moment. Their creativity seems limitless, their resilience unwavering, and their sense of justice deeply rooted in love for others. Firefly, you bring joy, insight, and connection into every space you inhabit. Thank you for being a constant source of inspiration, kindness, and light. You will be greatly missed at RHS!

Kathrynne Williams, 12th grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

It is our honor to recognize and celebrate a remarkable student, Rynne Williams, whose journey over the past year is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and personal growth. Rynne has faced significant challenges in her life—circumstances that could have easily derailed her education and future. But instead of allowing those hardships to define her, she made the courageous decision to take control of her path. Through hard work, reflection, and a deep desire to improve, she has turned things around in an extraordinary way. Not only has Rynne made great strides in taking care of herself emotionally and physically, but she has also shown a renewed dedication to her education. After struggling with attendance in the past, she has made noticeable improvements in this area —showing up, staying committed, and taking responsibility for her future. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Rynne continues to attend Cascadia Tech Academy, where she has been entrusted with additional responsibilities in the form of an internship—a clear sign that her educators and mentors see her potential and trust in her abilities. We are proud of the person Rynne is becoming: someone who is proving every day that she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. Her story is one of hope, perseverance, and the incredible impact of believing in oneself. Rynne is thankful for the WRA staff members who have helped her along the way and plans to work after high school to earn some money and then plan for her next steps. Please join us in recognizing Rynne not only for her academic and personal growth, but for inspiring all of us with her strength and courage.

Jessie Stenhjem, Attendance Secretary at Sunset/View Ridge Middle School 

Jessie is an exceptional attendance secretary who goes above and beyond every day in her dual role supporting both Sunset Ridge Intermediate School and View Ridge Middle School. Her dedication to students and staff across two buildings is nothing short of remarkable. Jessie is always there to offer help—no matter how busy she is, she never hesitates to step in and provide support. She consistently puts students first, ensuring their needs are met with care and attention. Her calm, dependable presence creates a sense of stability and warmth for everyone around her. Jessie’s ability to juggle the demands of two schools while still making each person feel valued and supported speaks volumes about her commitment and character. She is more than deserving of Employee of the Month, and is very appreciated. Thank you, Jessie!

Karen Miller, ParaProfessional at Union Ridge 

Karen is an incredible support to both students and staff, going above and beyond in her role as a paraeducator. She helps manage a student we share from the SLC program, coordinating pickup routines and ensuring he has everything he needs for a successful day. Karen is consistently responsive, creative, and proactive—whether she’s making visual supports, checking in through email, or sharing helpful observations. Her work with some of our highest-needs students is truly a gift. She brings warmth, kindness, and encouragement to everyone around her and always lifts spirits with her positive attitude, even on the toughest days. Karen actively participates in trainings, offering thoughtful questions and insights. She supports not only her assigned students, but others in the classroom as well, making a meaningful difference wherever she’s needed. It’s a joy to work alongside her. Thank you, Karen, for your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment!

It’s not every day that a Kindergartener gets to see their art brought to life, but that’s what happened at Cape Horn-Skye Elementary this month!  Students in Mrs. Alice Yang’s art classes at Cape created “monsters” in their art class.  These drawings were brought to life by Yang’s Canyon Creek Middle School Art students!  

Yang first worked on the art project with the younger set of students, with some drawing inspiration from books, games or movies.  Others let their imaginations run wild as they created artwork that depicted a monster they wanted to see made into a tangible stuffed animal. 

Yang said, “I was so happy to see how hard the middle schoolers worked because they didn’t want to disappoint the younger students!  It really brought to light the strong sense of community we have at Cape and Canyon.  The student engagement was incredible.  I had several students sew more than one project and ask to work on them at home as well.”  

The middle school students worked with Yang, who ordered fabric in a number of different colors, learning sewing techniques and strategies for creating the complex designs the younger students imagined.  

CCMS Student Hayley Lomax said that in the art she created, “it was a little challenging to figure out how to make the head stand up, so it is a little floppy.” 

Yang added that, “Something about the real world application of the sewing / crafting - challenge to put skills together to make the art work as a project.” She added, “I love that our middle schoolers are not only connecting with the little artists, but they are also learning how to sew, which is such an important skill. There were several drawings that were challenging to interpret with felt and thread, but the students’ creativity and problem-solving skills shone through.”

Lomax said that “it was cool to create art for someone else; you don’t normally get to see the enjoyment someone else receives when they see or experience art!”

The younger students were amazed by the work the middle school students had done, and were presented both with their artwork that was the inspiration for the stuffed animal, and the new monster that was created just for them.  

Cape Horn-Skye Principal Brook Henley said,  “Our students have such a special opportunity to learn on a Transition to Kindergarten  to 8th grade campus.  The staff’s commitment to ensuring our students are role models to one another is phenomenal.  Mrs. Yang’s project is a wonderful example of utilizing our unique school setup for developing lifelong skills, community mentorship, and memories.”

Visual arts classes and projects like this one are funded by the Washougal School Levy. The levy supports great opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop their talent, and share their passion with our community. 

Newberg, OR – In the face of continued challenges in the restaurant industry, Social Goods Market, a beloved pizzeria and tap house in Newberg, Oregon, continues to demonstrate the power of community and compassion. Recently, the locally owned business raised $400 in support of the Newberg High School track and field program, helping fund essential uniforms and equipment for student-athletes.

The donation was presented directly to the school's head coach, with hopes that it will play a small but meaningful role in supporting the growing program.

“Even in hard times, we believe in showing up for our youth. They only get these moments once, and if we can be even a small part of their joy and education, we’re all in,” said Robin Sikkens, co-owner of Social Goods.

Since opening its doors in 2016, Social Goods has become more than just a place for pizza and pints—it’s a hub of generosity. The restaurant has proudly supported numerous fundraisers benefiting local schools, churches, and nonprofits, reflecting its deep commitment to giving back.

Whether it’s serving a memorable meal or supporting the next generation, Social Goods continues to live out its mission: creating meaningful experiences inside and outside its walls.

For more information about Social Goods or to get involved in future fundraising efforts, please contact Danny Sikkens at (987) 133-3846 or danny@vinooregon.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Kids Curate exhibition shares work of yearlong program with elementary students

BEND, OR — The High Desert Museum invites visitors to experience the culmination of a yearlong program that dove into the diverse perspectives of wildfire in Central Oregon. Explore the artistic voices of young students in Kids Curate, open now through Sunday, June 1.

Every year, Kids Curate integrates art, science and history into classrooms and field-trip experiences with one Central Oregon elementary school over the course of the school year. The program culminates in an exhibition created by the students on the Museum’s walls. Caregivers and families celebrate the students’ work at an exhibition opening event.

“Students engage with the topic deeply through hands on experiences to better understand many viewpoints throughout the year,” said Bonnie Lee and Oliver P. Steele III Curator of Education and Engagement Molly Wilmoth. “We’re grateful to partner with the educators at a school to provide this intensive and in-depth learning experience.”

Third and fourth graders from La Pine Elementary School in La Pine, Oregon, participated in this year’s project. Months of learning have culminated in a series of artwork. Each of the students’ canvases depicts a unique perspective on wildfire, a phenomenon of particular interest after last year’s Darlene 3 fire in their community. With the help of Museum educators, La Pine teachers and experts, the students explored our complicated relationship with fire in the High Desert.

As a result, more than 100 pieces of art will adorn the walls of the Desertarium Gallery at the Museum. The exhibition is an external representation of the internal process.

Museum educators first met with the students in October 2024 and continued to meet with them every other week. Through different educational disciplines – from science and art to social studies and history – the students learned about wildfire on the landscape and then translated those perspectives into art. This ranged from fire as a threat to fire as a helpful, natural process. Their new understandings of fire are highlighted through the exhibition.

As part of the Kids Curate program, the Museum included two outside voices to help the students in their yearlong learning. Ariel Cowan, regional fire specialist with the Oregon State University Extension Service, helped the students explore fire as both scientists and community members. She took part in the students’ field trip to the Museum in late February 2025, providing information on how fires can damage structures in a community but also spur new forest growth.

Artist Jake Kenobi, also known as Spring Break Jake, visited La Pine Elementary three times during the year to share his techniques with the students. From how he creates his artwork to the incorporation of feelings and emotions onto the canvas, Kenobi invited the students to see fire as more than just heat and combustion.

After gathering materials in the forest at the Museum, Kenobi assisted students in creating “studio potions.” Acrylic paint supplemented with pinecone bits, soil, pine needles and manzanita leaves adorn the canvases on display.

In addition, Kids Curate provides participating students with the pride of publicly and prominently displaying their artwork and the tools needed to continue their artistic practice.

More information about the Kids Curate program can be found at highdesertmuseum.org/kids-curate.

The 2025 Kids Curate program and exhibition is made possible by The Bloomfield Family Foundation, Braemar Charitable Trust/Trust Management Services LLC, the Chambers Family Foundation, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, the PGE Foundation and the Oregon Arts Commission. Additional support comes from Bennington Properties.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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Wednesday, May 14 9:30 – 10:30 am

1616 E. Burnside St., Portland, OR

Central City Concern’s 16 x Burnside Recovery Center

Join Governor Tina Kotek, First Lady Kotek Wilson; Central City Concern (CCC) President and CEO Dr. Andy Mendenhall; Ebony Clarke, Division Director, Behavioral Health, Oregon Health Authority; Skyler Brocker-Knapp, Director, Portland Solutions and other dignitaries as CCC announces the opening of the 16 x Burnside Recovery Center, a new 74 bed residential treatment center. Drug and alcohol free, 16 x Burnside Recovery Center will serve as a culturally responsive and trauma informed treatment center addressing a key care gap in our community.

Speakers will be on hand after the press conference to answer questions.

For more information, please visit https://centralcityconcern.org/blog/meeting-our-regions-need-for-more-treatment-beds/

Vancouver, WA — 5-12-2025— Columbia Play Project, the innovative nonprofit bringing hands-on play and learning to children across Southwest Washington, has officially launched a search for its first paid Executive Director. This new leader will guide the organization through a pivotal moment in its evolution, as Columbia Play Project transitions from its grassroots beginnings into a fully realized children’s museum serving the region.

Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, Columbia Play Project began with at-home play kits and quickly expanded to “Pop Up Children’s Museums in the Park,” reaching more than 5,000 participants in its first year. In 2022, Columbia Play Project introduced the Mobile Children’s Museum (MCM), offering exploratory STREAM-based (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math) experiences to families throughout Clark County. Since then, Columbia Play Project has hosted hundreds of events, reaching over 60,000 children and caregivers through creative, engaging, child-led play.

“I am thrilled that Columbia Play Project is ready to hire its first paid Executive Director,” said Jeanne Bennett, current volunteer Executive Director. “From the beginning of this project, we knew that volunteers would need to get the Columbia Play Project going but someday we would want and need a professional with museum and nonprofit management experience. That day has come, and it couldn’t be more exciting.”

With a $500,000 planning grant, sponsored by Senator Annette Cleveland, from the Washington State Department of Commerce, Columbia Play Project launched its Dream the Museum campaign to create a permanent children’s museum in Clark County. The planning process is nearly complete—including strategic planning, site identification, business planning, community engagement.  The future Executive Director will implement the strategic and business plans, oversee the feasibility process and guide Columbia Play Project’s overall growth and operations.

This is a unique opportunity for a visionary leader with a passion for play, child development, and community building. The ideal candidate will bring experience in museum and nonprofit leadership and management, fundraising, operations, and public engagement.

Applications, including a resume and cover letter, are due by 5:00 pm on June 6, 2025. Materials should be sent to info@columbiaplayproject.org or mailed to PO Box 5797, Vancouver, WA 98668-5797. A full overview of the position and organizational background is available at: www.columbiaplayproject.org.

About Columbia Play Project:
Columbia Play Project inspires wonder, fosters curiosity, and strengthens communities by empowering explorers to discover and learn through STREAM play. Through its Mobile Children’s Museum and seasonal indoor play space, Columbia Play Project removes barriers to access and delivers joyful, hands-on experiences for children and families throughout Clark County.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Council for the Homeless Thanks Winter Shelter Partners for Lifesaving Support

717 Individuals Sheltered Over Winter, Totaling 17,948 Bed Nights (Sleeps)

VANCOUVER, WA (May 15, 2025) — Winter partnerships play a critical role in creating an effective response to homelessness. Through the collective efforts of community partners, Council for the Homeless (CFTH) was able to connect 717 individuals to emergency shelter and housing support over the winter season, providing a total of 17,948 bed nights (sleeps) — each one representing a safe night’s rest for someone without a home.

CFTH extends its deep gratitude to all winter response partners who opened their doors — and in many cases expanded their capacity — to meet the growing need during the coldest months of the year. These services included year-round and seasonal shelters, emergency stays, and warming centers that protected the lives of our unhoused neighbors as temperatures dropped.

“None of this would be possible without the dedication of our partners and volunteers who step up every winter to make sure no one has to endure extreme weather without shelter,” said Sesany Fennie-Jones, chief executive officer of Council for the Homeless. “These partnerships don’t just save lives — they give people the space to begin rebuilding.”

Key shelter partners contributed to the winter response:

1. Year-round shelters — These facilities operate continuously and strive to expand their capacity during severe weather conditions.
2. Winter shelters (November through March) — Hosted at Chkalov Building, Immanuel Lutheran Church, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, St. Paul Lutheran Church, and the Vancouver Arts Center.
3. Severe weather shelters — Open only during declared severe weather emergencies, functioning as overnight shelters or daytime warming centers. Key examples are Living Hope Church and the Salvation Army for overnight stays, and St. Paul Lutheran for daytime warming.

In a key policy shift this winter, CFTH activated 41 Severe Weather Alerts when temperatures fell below 36 degrees, a change from the previous threshold of 32 degrees.  This adjustment allowed more individuals to access emergency shelter earlier and more frequently, providing critical protection from life-threatening conditions.

While winter weather has passed, the need remains. CFTH continues to face ongoing challenges and is currently seeking donations of essential supplies, including hygiene items, rain gear, tents, and blankets. As summer approaches, volunteers will also be needed to assist during extreme heat events.

In alignment with its winter weather response efforts, CFTH has updated its summer severe weather alert threshold.  Alerts will now activate at 98 degrees instead of 100 — another proactive measure to help protect the health and safety of the community’s most vulnerable residents.

Ongoing community support and partnerships are essential to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County. Together, we can provide immediate safety, long-term stability, and hope.

To learn more or support the efforts of Council for the Homeless, visit www.councilforthehomeless.org.

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Wednesday, May 14, the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools, VPS staff and students, and community partners gathered at Fort Vancouver High School for the groundbreaking of a new technical trades building. 

This new facility, funded by the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, will be utilized for classes teaching students job-ready skills in advanced manufacturing and welding. It greatly expands the capacity of Fort’s existing programs and will provide students with hands-on, experiential training. The center aims to create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to the region’s ongoing economic growth.

The Ed Lynch Technical Trades Center is projected to open to students by January 2026.

“We’re so happy to be able to bridge the gap between our donors’ visions, community needs, and the needs of our VPS students. This pathway for collaboration makes buildings like the Ed Lynch Technical Trades Center possible,” said Timothea Sutton, Interim Executive Director of the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools. “We can’t wait to see the positive impact these highly-trained students will bring to our community.”

Attendees included VPS Superintendent Dr. Jeff Snell and City Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle.

This project is 100% donor-funded, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, a charitable fund of the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington, as well as the district’s generous community and business partners.

For Media only: Photos and video from the event can be found here. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Billy Henry, Founder & CEO – bhenry@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
805 Broadway St., Ste 750 • Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-448.7254 Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
media@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes Launches Spring Campaign to Celebrate 10 Years of Camp Spark

Gifts made May 19–31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $23,500

Vancouver, Washington — May 16, 2025 — Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) today announced the launch of its Spring Campaign to fund Camp Spark, a week-long developmental sports and life-skills program for children and teens who are blind or visually impaired in Washington and Oregon. Running May 19 – May 31, the campaign seeks to raise $80,000—enough to send 20 campers to this transformational experience. Early supporters have created a $23,500 matching pool, doubling every donation until the match is met.

Now in its 10th year, Camp Spark remains the only program of its kind in the country. Throughout the week, campers explore tandem cycling, beep baseball, swimming, track & field, and more, while also developing vital life skills like meal preparation, personal organization, and goal-setting. The program is grounded in the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), empowering participants to master orientation & mobility, self-advocacy, social interaction, independent living, and recreation—all in a supportive community of peers who share similar experiences.

“Camp Spark is where children and youth who are blind discover that their ambitions are limitless,” said Billy Henry, Founder & CEO of NWABA. “In just ten years, we’ve watched campers rise as confident leaders—heading to college, excelling in their careers, and thriving in every facet of life. Every gift to this campaign isn’t merely a donation; it’s the spark that ignites a lifetime of achievement.”

It costs approximately $4,000 to provide one camper with tuition-free access to Camp Spark, including specialized instruction from credentialed adaptive-physical-education professionals, accessible equipment, lodging, and nutritious meals. By removing financial barriers, NWABA ensures that every eligible child—regardless of income—can participate and thrive.

How to Give: From May 19 to May 31, visit nwaba.org/campspark to make a tax-deductible donation. All contributions will be matched until the $23,500 pool is fully claimed.

About NWABA: 
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that delivers more than 5,000 program and service interactions annually to children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For information: http://www.nwaba.org/campspark or

Contact: Billy Henry, Founder & CEO, henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org

Phone:  1-360-448-7254

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It's Free Little Library week, and Oaks Park is celebrating our new Free Little Library, located within the park, with a special offer. 

Bring a family-friendly book to Guest Services between noon and 6 PM on Saturday, 5/17/2025, and get a FREE round of miniature golf!

Advocacy Organization Calls on Oregon Lawmakers to Keep Their Promise to Fund Foundational Public Health Programs

PORTLAND, Ore. (May 06, 2025) Oregon’s 33 local public health authorities face severe and worsening workforce challenges, limiting their ability to protect the health and safety of Oregon’s 4.2 million residents. 

Those are the findings from a new report issued by the Oregon Coalition of Local Health Officials (CLHO), the advocacy organization for local public health authorities.

The most significant issues include inadequate pay, chronic understaffing, burnout, leadership turnover and a lack of training, recruitment and retention resources. 

“While these are not new challenges, they continue to worsen because of increased work coupled with drastic public health cuts at the federal level as well as chronic underfunding from all levels of government,” says Sarah Lochner, CLHO’s executive director. Ten years ago, Oregon lawmakers promised to fully fund essential public health programs like disease control, environmental health and emergency preparedness. So far, they’ve committed only half of the funding they promised. We’re calling on lawmakers this legislative session to keep their promise to fund these foundational programs.” 

The new report's findings and recommendations come from surveys and focus groups conducted in 2024 with public health administrators and human resource professionals in 29 of Oregon’s 33 public health authorities. 

“The biggest workforce challenges have been reduced budgets, laying off staff and cutting FTE.”

— Jackson Baures, Jackson County Division Manager

Key findings: 

• While the total number of full-time positions has increased since CLHO’s last workforce report in 2021, there are fewer nurses and epidemiologists, especially in rural counties.   
• Although average wages for many positions, including nurses, epidemiologists and administrators increased, wages in public health are still significantly lower than in the private sector, especially for nurses.
•  Inadequate pay, limited advancement opportunities and burnout are the top reasons public health workers leave their jobs.
• There is significant turnover among public health leadership. Between 2020-21, 16 public health administrators left their positions. Since then, another 17 have left.
• Many new hires lack basic public health training and skills needed to do their jobs.
• Counties struggle to recruit and retain qualified candidates due to limited resources; a lack of measurable diversity, equity and inclusion hiring goals; and a lack of affordable housing.

Key recommendations:

• Invest in competitive, sustainable compensation by increasing state funding and encouraging local investments.
• Fund tuition, scholarship, mentorship and leadership development programs in partnership with educational institutions.
• Expand job outreach by posting openings on culturally specific job platforms and through local and tribal colleges, particularly those serving historically excluded groups. 
• Offer recruitment incentives such as relocation assistance, housing assistance and sign-on bonuses.
• Create and implement a statewide DEI hiring framework.
• Develop a centralized, publicly accessible onboarding “Public Health Essentials Toolkit” that could be adapted to fit the specific needs of the local workforce.
• Build capacity among staff to assume leadership positions.  

The report concludes by stressing the importance of sustained funding increases to ensure that the public health workforce is prepared for the next pandemic, disease outbreak or environmental disaster. 

“We don’t wait until there is a fire to ask for funding for the local fire department. Their funding structure allows them to respond immediately when a fire starts. We should fund public health the same way–if we have to wait for another public health emergency to receive funding for essential programs, more people will suffer and more people will die," said CLHO Chair Philip Mason-Joyner, who oversees public health and health and human services in Clackamas County.

To get a copy of the full report or arrange an interview, please email info@oregonclho.org

CLHO is asking state lawmakers to invest an additional $65.2 million per biennium in local public health. Read about CLHO’s 2025 legislative priorities here.

May 14, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Town ‘At the Edge of the World’ Breaks Ground on World-Class Skatepark

By Paige Parker

LAKEVIEW, Ore. — One day, a modest idea rolled into Lakeview: What if we built a skatepark?

Two years later, the southern Oregon town — population 2,400 — is turning that vision into reality. This week, excavating equipment arrived on site to begin digging out an old tennis court and shaping the bowl for what will become a world-class skatepark in the heart of the community.

“They're in there working, digging holes and putting pipes in and everything,” said Rotarian Chuck Kelley. “I'm super pleased. Things are going right along.”

It all started when Kelley noticed many kids were missing out on traditional sports like football and basketball — whether because they couldn't afford the gear, didn’t speak English or didn’t feel like they belonged.

“Those sports don’t catch everybody,” said fellow Rotarian Michael McGowen. “The fear is that the way kids go instead is to the easily available and inexpensive drugs.”

A park geared toward the relatively low-barrier activity of skateboarding seemed like a solution. Rotarians donated $1,500 to get the project started, and a community survey showed strong support.

Small Town, Big Dream

Building a skatepark legally is an enormous undertaking. Community members often fear that a skatepark will attract crime, but research shows that parks in visible places tend to become community assets. Lakeview organizers studied the ins and outs of design, safety and liability with support from The Skatepark Project.

The nonprofit was founded by skateboarding legend Tony Hawk — a kid who didn’t fit into traditional sports and turned to skateboarding after struggling in baseball. Hawk became the first skateboarder to land a 900, a trick that involves revolving two and a half times mid-air. He later retired from professional competition and established his foundation to help build skateparks in low-income areas.

Following the Rotarians’ research, the Lakeview Town Council endorsed the project and leased the public land for the skatepark site to organizers for $1 a year. Councilors didn’t want just any skatepark — they wanted one that could attract competitions and visitors to Lakeview, filling its hotel beds, campsites and restaurants.

“We put out an RFP to six of the best skatepark design firms in the United States,” McGowen said.

Oregon’s own Dreamland Skateparks submitted the winning bid. The Lincoln City firm designed a 13,000-square-foot park suitable for skateboarders, scooter riders, BMX bikers, rollerbladers and wheelchair users. The design includes a deep, kidney-shaped bowl, a chute and a series of mounds, allowing for both park and street styles — the two disciplines that debuted during the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. In park style, competitors ride in a bowl to build speed for aerial moves; in street style, they maneuver over obstacles.

‘We’ll Find a Way’

Despite being located in one of Oregon’s poorest counties, the community has raised more than $500,000 of the $600,000 budget. Organizers cobbled together the funding from in-kind donations, philanthropic support and Rotary Club fundraisers. Kelley is even loaning the construction crew a house he owns in town for the duration of the project.

“Lakeview is at the edge of the world,” McGowen said. “We don’t have much in this town, but one thing we do have is town spirit. We’re so remote that we have to do for ourselves.”

Oregon Community Foundation stepped in early with a $10,000 grant and contributed another $50,000 in 2024. OCF President and CEO Lisa Mensah shared Lakeview’s story at the foundation’s recent annual meeting before an audience of more than 700.

“Asking ‘What if’ can show a community of kids that they’re worth fighting for,” Mensah told the crowd at the Portland Art Museum and those watching across the state on Zoom. “I wonder, what if we all believed in our kids like Lakeview believes in theirs? That takes nerve. That takes backbone. And that’s ‘What if’ at work in Oregon.”

Organizers are already working on ways to give away bikes, skateboards and helmets to kids in need through sponsorships from manufacturers and retailers. They hope to bring in a professional skateboarder to offer a free clinic and teach kids the basics of riding.

“If you worry too much in life, you miss out on opportunities,” McGowen said. “We’ll find a way.”

And it will all happen right in the middle of town — where every child will finally be seen.

Watch Lisa Mensah’s annual meeting speech and learn more about the May 9, 2025, event at the Portland Art Museum.

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation

503-720-3112 | cfogarty@oregoncf.org

May 12, 2025

Media Contact: 
Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation Welcomes to Board Leaders in Rural Advocacy, Iconic Businesses, Conservation, Law 

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Community Foundation’s Board of Directors has five new members who bring extensive experience in conservation, law, rural community development and leadership of iconic Oregon companies. The five new members were approved by unanimous vote by the OCF Board of Directors. 

“This an all-star group of civic and community leaders will bring a diversity of viewpoints and insight to advance our work,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. "The foundation’s next stage of growth will depend upon our ability to bring Oregonians together to deliver bold solutions.”

Deana Freres advocates for rural communities as founding board member of the Santiam Hospital and Clinics Foundation and co-founder the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund. She served 18 years advocating for children through the relief nursery Family Building Blocks.

"I value the determination OCF shows to connect with communities from all over the state, especially in rural areas," Deana says.  "We share a goal to ensure these communities are vibrant, healthy, and have the resources they need to keep their economies thriving."

Chris Nemlowill is co-founder of fast growing and community focused Fort George Brewery in his hometown of Astoria, where he and his wife are “raising 3 kids playing 6 sports.” In 2024, the company installed the largest private single-building solar array in Oregon, providing more than 70% of the brewery’s electricity.

“I’ve been a promoter of community my whole life, so of course I’m drawn to an organization like Oregon Community Foundation,” he says. “I’ll do anything I can to help our communities remain great places to build a business and raise a family.”

Joth Ricci is former CEO of Dutch Bros., Stumptown Coffee and Adelsheim Vineyards. He co-founded TASTE for Equity, serves as Executive Chair at Burgerville, and teaches at Oregon State University’s College of Business.

“Serving on this board feels like a natural progression for me, after my work in communities all over this state and with organizations like the Oregon Business Council,” Ricci says. “This is an exciting time at OCF. What attracted me was the conversation around innovation, growth and change management that I hope can help drive community development across Oregon.”

Chuck Sams, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, served under President Biden as the first Native American Director of the National Park Service. He currently serves on the Northwest Power and Conservation Council and was on the board of the Gray Family Foundation, an OCF supporting organization.

“OCF represents a value and ethic that resonate with me. In Indian Country, you are measured not by your wealth but by how much you give,” Sams says. “OCF is committed to taking Oregon where it needs to go by spreading the wealth to improve the health of our state in multiple ways.”

Penny Serrurier is an estate planning attorney who has served on the Oregon Business Council and the boards of OMSI, Oregon Zoo Foundation, Oregon Symphony Foundation and Downtown Portland Safe & Clean. She spent 9 years on OCF’s Development and Marketing Committee.

“I am so excited to be joining the board of an organization that has contributed so much to Oregon communities through the years. I believe in the power of philanthropy, and I know that OCF has a critical role to play in the future of our great state. I am honored to be chosen for this leadership role.”

Read their full bios here and below.

About Oregon Community Foundation

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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New Oregon Community Foundation Board Members 2025

Deana Freres

Deana Freres’ volunteer work centers around her passion for rural communities and the economies that lift them. Her advocacy promotes economic development initiatives, leverages the responsible management of natural resources, and ensures families have access to jobs, housing, education and quality healthcare in the communities where they live.

As a founding board member of the Santiam Hospital and Clinics Foundation, Deana plays a pivotal role in advancing rural healthcare initiatives and capital campaign strategies. She also serves on the board of the Stayton Public Library Foundation and is beginning her first term of service as a member of Oregon Episcopal School Board of Trustees. She recently concluded 18 years of service on the board of Family Building Blocks, a relief nursery where she supported child abuse prevention and family support services through legislative advocacy, capital campaigns and program governance.

Deana stepped into an unexpectedly significant role in disaster relief and recovery efforts following the devastating Lionshead and Beachie Creek wildfires in 2020. She co-founded the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund (SCWRF), a nonprofit initiative in partnership with Santiam Hospital & Clinics. As a member of the SCWRF Advisory Committee and president of the Santiam Canyon Long Term Recovery Group, she coordinated survivor recovery grants, supports disaster case management, and organizes ongoing community rebuilding efforts, assisting over 1000 households impacted by the disaster.

Deana studied Management Science Engineering at Southern Methodist University and worked 10 years in project management and process design engineering before dedicating her time in support of nonprofits.

"I value the determination OCF shows to connect with communities from all over the state, especially in rural areas," Deana says.  "We share a goal to ensure these communities are vibrant, healthy, and have the resources they need to keep their economies thriving."

Chris Nemlowill

Chris Nemlowill is the co-founder of Fort George Brewery and Public House in his hometown of Astoria, Oregon.

After earning a marketing degree from Southern Oregon University, Nemlowill knew he didn’t want to work in a cubicle. Instead, he found his passion in home brewing and learned everything he could from mentors in Oregon and Europe. While attending international marketing classes, he was especially inspired by Germany’s community-centered, family friendly beer culture.

Back in Astoria, Nemlowill worked as a barista and developed his brewing craft on the side. In 2007, he co-founded Fort George Brewery and Public House and demand grew quickly. “We couldn’t make beer fast enough,” he says. The brewery eventually transformed a once-dilapidated warehouse — pigeons and all — into a full city block of community gathering space.

Fort George has grown to 150 employees. In 2024, the company installed the largest private single-building solar array in Oregon, providing more than 70% of the brewery’s electricity.

Nemlowill and his wife, Zetty, are raising “three kids doing six sports” while continuing to grow community partnerships in Astoria.

“I’ve been a promoter of community my whole life, so of course I’m drawn to an organization like Oregon Community Foundation,” he says. “I’ll do anything I can to help our state and our community remain a great place to build a business and raise a family.”

Joth Ricci