The Beaverton Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance as detectives investigate a stabbing that left one man critically injured last Tuesday morning.

On August 4, 2026, at approximately 5:15 a.m., officers responded to the area of SW 107th Avenue and SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway following reports of a stabbing.

The preliminary investigation indicates a 30-year-old man was stabbed after a confrontation with an individual associated with a silver van. The associated van is believed to be an early 2000’s silver colored Honda Odyssey.

The victim was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries . The victim is still hospitalized at the time of this writing.

Detectives are working to identify the suspect and are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the vehicle involved to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Brian Loose at 503-526-2280 or loose@beavertonoregon.gov">bloose@beavertonoregon.gov.

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Camas Police Investigate Drowning – Round Lake       (Camas, Washington):

Yesterday evening at 7:34 PM, Camas police and fire units were dispatched to a water emergency at the south side of Round Lake in Lacamas Park.  The 911 caller reported a male was struggling to swim after jumping off the rope swing near the Lacamas Creek Dam.  

Witnesses made substantial effort to try to help the swimmer but were unable to get him to shore.  Vancouver Fire Department’s Heavy Rescue Team responded but the victim was not located.  Divers from the Clark County Sheriff Office - Search & Rescue Underwater Recovery Team searched the lake until 3:30AM but were unable to find the victim.  Visibility was low and obstructions in the water made the mission difficult.

Efforts resumed early Saturday morning.  The Underwater Recovery Team was assisted by their human remains detection K9.   The body of a 19-year-old Camas resident was recovered today at approximately 11:50 AM. 

The City of Camas extends our condolences to the victim's family and asks the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

No additional details will be released at this time. 

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A meeting of the Board of Directors of Douglas County Fire District No. 2 will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday August 17, 2026 at 5:30 pm. A supplemental budget adjustment will be considered at this meeting. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 pm on Monday August 17, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1.  Monthly Financials

   2.  Auditor Communication During Planning

   3.  SB1068 Annexation Approval Request for Property ID: R64154

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-673-5503.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Central Douglas Fire & Rescue Authority will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday August 17, 2026 at 5:30 pm. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 pm on Monday August 17, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1. Monthly Financials

   2. Auditor Communication During Planning

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-673-5503.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Winston Dillard Fire District will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St., Winston, OR on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. A supplemental budget adjustment will be considered at this meeting. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-679-8721 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 p.m. on Monday August 17, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1. Monthly Financials

   2. Auditor Communication During Planning

   3. SB1068 Annexation Approval Request for Property ID: R65800

The meeting location is accessible to person with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-679-8721.

Update 8/11/26: Correction on age of Jacob Orr. He was born 3/30/89 making him 37 years old. Not 27 years old as inititially reported. 

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On August 8, 2026, at approximately 6:47 p.m., deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported shooting near the 8000 block of NE 142nd Avenue.

Deputies contacted a victim who had a grazing wound. Deputies learned that an argument had occurred in the neighborhood regarding juveniles riding dirt bikes on the street. The initial investigation suggests only one bullet was fired.

Twenty-seven-year-old Jacob Orr was identified as a suspect. He was detained during a traffic stop as the vehicle he was in left the neighborhood. When Jacob was taken into custody, he had a .380-caliber pistol. A .380-caliber shell casing was also located at the scene.

Jacob was booked into the Clark County Jail on multiple charges, including first-degree assault, felony harassment, and reckless endangerment.

The investigation remains active, and additional information is not being released at this time.

On Monday, August 10, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m., deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to assist Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue and AMR with a small, single-engine aircraft crash south of Daybreak Airport, near the 4400 block of NE 290th Street in La Center, Washington.

A 911 caller inside the aircraft provided initial information about the crash. Two people were aboard the aircraft at the time of the crash.

Due to the remote location of the crash site, it took responders more than 20 minutes to reach the aircraft. Both occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to local hospitals. One occupant was transported by Life Flight, while the other was transported by AMR.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has responded and will conduct an investigation.

No other injuries were reported.

Minutes before 1:00 p.m., CRESA received a 911 call reporting an aircraft accident in the Daybreak area. The caller indicated that a small airplane had crashed with two occupants on board, both conscious and breathing. Clark‑Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR), AMR, and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) were immediately dispatched.

Initial information suggested the aircraft was located at the north end of the Daybreak airstrip near the river. Responding crews approached from multiple directions and began searching the area. With no flames or smoke visible, a drone was requested to assist in locating the aircraft, and crews prepared for the possibility that a raft might be needed for access.

Further questioning by the CRESA call taker clarified that the aircraft was actually at the south end of the airstrip, surrounded by trees with limited visibility of nearby roads. CCFR captains located the plane overturned, a detail confirmed by the caller. Due to the likelihood of a prolonged extrication, Life Flight was placed on standby.

Access to the crash site proved challenging. Crews had to carry EMS and rescue equipment on foot across uneven terrain and a shallow portion of the river. One occupant had self‑extricated and was found sitting on the wing with injuries. The second occupant remained trapped inside the aircraft. Homeowners in the area assisted responders by helping transport equipment while crews worked to establish a safe route across the river.

Rescue personnel cut and peeled back portions of the aircraft’s structure to reach the trapped patient. Once freed, the patient was secured to a backboard and transported across the river using a raft to reach awaiting medical units. One patient was transported by ground ambulance, and the other was airlifted by Life Flight to local hospitals.

At this time, no further information is available regarding the patients’ conditions.

Due to the extreme fire danger, recreational fires will be prohibited throughout the Cities of La Center, Ridgefield and Woodland in addition to unincorporated Clark County.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in locating 52-year-old Jeffrey Alan Hawks of Drain who was reported missing to deputies on Tuesday evening. 

Hawks was last seen on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at approximately 7:00 a.m., when he departed Murphy Plywood, located at 2350 Prairie Road in Eugene. Hawks was expected to return to his residence in the 13000 block of Upper Smith River Road in Drain, but there are no indications he ever arrived. 

Hawks has not contacted family or friends and has missed several days of work. His cell phone is currently powered off or out of service range. 

Hawks is described as a white male, standing 6 feet, 3 inches tall, weighing approximately 275 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair. 

He is associated with a white 2005 Toyota Sequoia bearing Oregon license plate 216HMS. 

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office and DCSO Search and Rescue teams are actively searching for Hawks with the assistance and coordination of Lane County Sheriff's Office and LCSO Search and Rescue. 

Anyone with information regarding Hawks' whereabouts, or who may have seen him or his vehicle is asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at (541) 440-4471 or by email dcso.pio@douglascountyor.gov. Please reference DCSO Case #26-2518.

EUGENE, Ore. August 9, 2026. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a second alarm fire that destroyed a vacant home and damaged several businesses in West Eugene Sunday evening.

Just before 6:30 p.m., firefighters were called to a report of a possible house fire in the area of Highway 99 and Barger Drive. Responding crews could see a large column of smoke from the area and arrived to find a fully involved house fire on the east side of the railroad tracks, behind Emerald Pool and Patio in the 1800 block of Highway 99.

Firefighters were met with a large volume of fire that had spread from the property into overgrown blackberries and other dry vegetation between the railroad tracks and businesses along Highway 99. Due to challenging access and the advancing fire, incident commanders called for a second alarm, bringing additional crews to the scene. Two additional engine companies and support staff were also requested.

The fire completely destroyed a vacant home on the east side of the railroad tracks that appeared to be used for storage and caused varying degrees of damage to three businesses along Highway 99.

Emerald Pool and Patio sustained fire damage to the rear and roof of the building, as well as exterior displays and vegetation. A nearby storage building also sustained exterior damage. Firefighters were able to prevent fire from making it to the interior of the buildings. A neighboring car dealership sustained fire damage to the exterior of its office building, while a small engine repair business to the south sustained damage to grass, old lawnmowers and other items outside the business.

No injuries were reported.

This was the third fire in the Eugene area along railroad tracks within a 12-hour period. One near Franklin and Walnut around 7:30 AM and another in Lane Fire Authority’s jurisdiction on Hwy 99 N of Beltline.

In all, eight engine companies, two truck companies, one ambulance, support staff and additional command level personnel responded to the incident. 

Highway 99 was shut down for a period of time to allow firefighters to access additional water supply. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation by ESF Deputy Fire Marshals. 

Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a house fire in SE Springfield early Saturday morning.  Fire crews were alerted to the fire just after 4 AM on August 8th. Callers were reporting fire coming from the back porch and extending above the roof of a home in the 3700 block of Jasper Rd.

Battalion 3 and Tower 3 arrived to find a large volume of fire from the home and threatening another home.  Crews got to work searching the home to ensure everyone was out while simultaneously working to suppress the fire.  Additional resources were requested to assist due to fire spreading through vegetation threatening the 2nd house.  

The fire was contained to the primary residence with no other homes damaged. There were no injuries reported and the fire is under investigation. 

At 12:18am on Sunday August 9th, Forest Grove Firefighters were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 3100 block of Lavina Drive. Crews arrived to find heavy fire conditions from the garage and spreading above to the main portion of the split level house. Firefighters began fighting the flames in the garage while additional firefighters worked on accessing the main area of the house. Access to the living area of the house was made difficult due the house being built on a hill, with a stair way and deck to the front door being blocked off from heavy fire as well as items stored in the area to include over a dozen bikes, with several being E-Bikes. Firefighters had to climb a five foot tall retaining wall to get to the front door to access the main portion of the house with ladders put in place later in the incident. Due to the increased amount of fire, additional crews were needed to the scene and a Second Alarm was dispatched at 12:33am.

After approximately 35 minutes on scene, the fire was deemed under control. Crews then spent over an hour checking for hot spots. During this process, a firefighter from Cornelius Fire Department had a piece of debris fall onto them, they were transported to a local hospital with for further evaluation. At time of release, there is not an update on them. 
 

The fire caused heavy damage throughout the structure. The sole resident was able to safely evacuate. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Cornelius Fire Department, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Gaston Fire District, Banks Fire District, AMR Washington County and Forest Grove Police Department.

# # #

On August 7, 2026, at approximately 7:09 a.m., Grants Pass Police officers responded to the 1600 block of NE 6th Street following reports of a male attempting to break into a vehicle.

During the incident, the suspect displayed a firearm. He then struck the victim’s head with the body of the gun, commonly called “pistol whipping.” After the confrontation, the suspect fled on foot, running south on NE 7th Street.

While en route to the original scene on 6th Street, responding patrol officers observed a male matching the suspect's description on Midland Avenue, just west of NE 7th Street. The officers were operating clearly marked Grants Pass Police patrol vehicles, and each officer was wearing a standard Grants Pass Police uniform with "POLICE" clearly displayed on the front of the uniform.

During the encounter, the suspect pointed a firearm at the officers. Faced with what they perceived to be an imminent threat of death or serious physical injury, three officers discharged their duty firearms.

The officers' use of deadly force was in response to the immediate threat posed by the armed suspect. At the time of the encounter, the officers were also attempting to prevent the suspect from causing further harm to members of the public following the reported armed assault that had occurred moments earlier.

Immediately following the use of force, the involved patrol officers rendered emergency medical aid to the suspect, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Officers continued providing care until relieved by American Medical Response and Grants Pass Fire/Rescue.

The suspect was transported to Rogue Regional Medical Center for medical treatment. He continues to receive medical care at the time of this release.

Grants Pass Police Major Crimes Unit detectives and Josephine County Sheriff's Office patrol deputies responded to the scene to secure the area, confirm that no other individuals had been injured, and preserve evidence pending the arrival of independent law enforcement investigators. All the officers with our Department are safe and physically uninjured.

The investigation into this officer-involved shooting has been assigned to the Oregon State Police. The Oregon State Police are being assisted by the Josephine County District Attorney's Office, detectives with the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, and the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division.

Investigators are working to identify the suspect.

The Oregon State Police are conducting an independent investigation into this officer-involved shooting to ensure a thorough and transparent review of the incident. The Grants Pass Police Department is committed to maintaining public trust and accountability and believes an independent investigation is essential to providing the community with an objective assessment of the facts and the officers' actions under Oregon law.

The Grants Pass Police Department appreciates the public's patience and cooperation in avoiding the area during the investigation. The incident required significant road closures and affected access to nearby businesses while investigators processed the scene.

Further information regarding this incident will be provided by the Oregon State Police and the Josephine County District Attorney's Office as the investigation progresses and additional details can be released.
 

RELEASE DATE:           Aug 11,2026  

CONTACT PERSON:    On Duty PIO

CASE NUMBER:           26-35737

Gresham, Ore.— Detectives are releasing the identity of the victim of a shooting after she died as a result of her injuries.

On Monday, Aug 4. 2026, just before 12:40 a.m., Lacey Mouser aka: Lacey Clayton, 45 was shot in the 700 block of SE 185^th Avenue and transported to a local hospital.

On Sat., Aug 10, 2026, Mouser died from her injuries. The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death a homicide.  Mouser’s family has been notified of her death and is requesting privacy at this time.

The East County Major Crimes Team (MCT) continues to investigate the shooting.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact Detective Hawley at tin.daly@greshamoregon.gov">mark.hawley@greshamoregon.gov Detective Pick at justin.pick@greshamoregon.gov  and reference case number 26-35737.

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Multi-Agency Response to Vegetation Fire Near Forks Park / Westside Road

Illinois Valley Fire District
 

August 10, 2026

On Sunday, August 9, 2026, the Illinois Valley Fire District (IVFD), along with numerous local, state, federal, and private partners, responded to a reported vegetation fire in the area of Forks Park and Westside Road.

The initial dispatch was for a reported vegetation fire within the park. As responding units were going en route, a significant column of smoke was visible from the incident. Recognizing the potential for rapid fire growth and the need for additional resources, Illinois Valley Fire Chief John Holmes upgraded the incident to a second-alarm vegetation fire while units were responding. The second-alarm assignment brought additional resources from Rural Metro Fire and Grants Pass Fire to the incident to assist with fire suppression and structure protection efforts.

Upon arrival, a coordinated incident command structure was established with IVFD working alongside the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). Battalion 89 and additional crews were diverted to the Westside Road area to provide structure protection as fire conditions continued to develop. Chief Holmes assumed Structure Branch, coordinating structural fire resources and protection needs in the affected area. Due to the terrain, fire conditions, and resources necessary to effectively control the incident, the assignment was subsequently upgraded to a third alarm.

As the incident continued to develop, additional resources were requested through Rogue Valley II, including a Wildland Task Force consisting of resources from Fire District #3, Fire District #5, Medford Fire, and Ashland Fire. These resources were initially requested for an emergency response to the incident. As conditions improved and resources already on scene made progress, the incoming response was downgraded. Those resources then assisted by providing station coverage in the Grants Pass area until they were released from the assignment.

Working in close coordination with ODF, firefighting aircraft were assigned to the incident along with ODF hand crews. Ground resources from local, state, federal, and private firefighting organizations worked together throughout the incident to suppress the fire, protect structures and the surrounding area, and support the overall operation.

This incident also demonstrated the importance of maintaining adequate local staffing. The Illinois Valley community was fortunate to have approved the recent levy, which allows the District to maintain firefighters on shift and ensures personnel are available to respond when emergencies occur. During a rapidly developing incident such as this one, having firefighters immediately available is critical to initiating an effective response, protecting structures, and coordinating incoming mutual-aid resources. IVFD sincerely appreciates the continued support and trust of the community.

The Illinois Valley Fire District would like to recognize and sincerely thank the numerous agencies, organizations, dispatchers, firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement personnel, support staff, and others who contributed to the response:

Illinois Valley Fire District; Rural Metro Fire; Grants Pass Fire; Oregon Department of Forestry; U.S. Forest Service – Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest; Bureau of Land Management; Grayback Forestry; American Medical Response (AMR); Josephine County Sheriff’s Office; Fire District #3; Fire District #5; Medford Fire; Ashland Fire; Grants Pass 911 Communications/Josephine County 911; and Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon.

IVFD also extends a huge shoutout and special thank you to Shop Smart for stepping up at the last minute to provide food for our crews. With power out in the area and firefighters committed to an extended incident, their willingness to quickly help feed personnel was greatly appreciated.

IVFD would also like to recognize and thank City of Cave Junction Mayor Jesse Dugas for the tremendous support he provided to the community throughout the day. With the fire incident and power outage affecting the area, Mayor Dugas' efforts to assist and support community members were greatly appreciated. It takes more than emergency responders to successfully manage the impacts of an incident, and yesterday was another example of our community coming together when it was needed.

The combined efforts demonstrated during this incident are an example of the level of service and cooperation committed to protecting the communities of Josephine County and Southern Oregon. From the initial dispatchers receiving the call, to the firefighters and equipment responding from throughout the region, to aircraft and hand crews working the fireline, to agencies providing station coverage so emergency services remained available elsewhere, this was truly a coordinated regional effort.

The Illinois Valley Fire District especially recognizes its career and volunteer members who responded and worked alongside our mutual-aid partners. Incidents of this size require significant coordination, resources, and teamwork, and we are grateful for the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by everyone involved.

Thank you to all of our responding agencies, cooperating partners, dispatch centers, community partners, and community members for supporting the mission of protecting lives, property, and our communities.

Illinois Valley Fire District

JCSO Case 26-4106

EAGLE POINT, Ore. – A structure fire in rural Eagle Point has tragically claimed the lives of a mother and her three children under the age of 10. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the victims. At this preliminary stage of the investigation, the fire is believed to have been a tragic, non-criminal accident.

On Sunday, August 9th at 12:47 PM, Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon 911 Dispatch received a call for a structure fire in the 600 block of Leafwood Drive in Eagle Point. Before first responders arrived on scene, the fire had fully engulfed a fifth-wheel camper with four family members trapped inside. Tragically, a mother and three juveniles under the age of 10 died as a result of the fire. One surviving family member was able to escape with minor injuries.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies along with Jackson County Fire District 3 (FD3), and Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) firefighters responded to find the fire spreading to nearby structures and wildland. FD3 and ODF firefighters extinguished the fire before it could spread to nearby forest lands. Southern Oregon Public Safety Chaplains responded to provide support services.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. This case is open and ongoing pending autopsies and forensic identification. Due to the nature of this case, victim information will not be released. There is no further information available at this time.

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RELEASE DATE: August 12, 2026

INCIDENT: FLOCK Contract Cancellation

REPORTING DEPUTY: Sheriff Dave Daniel

DETAILS: 

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has been in contract with an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) company named FLOCK.  A contract for 10 cameras was entered into to increase the ability to identify/locate stolen vehicles, wanted or missing subjects associated with a specific vehicle and in general enhance the ability to investigate crimes.

In recent months some of the equipment and technology has been targeted and vandalized.  There has been a great deal of public concern over this technology and its potential infringement of Constitutional 4^th Amendment rights. Many jurisdictions across the United States have run into the same situation of theft, damage and social concern resulting in numerous cancellations of contracts with FLOCK.  Josephine County is no different.  While the technology has been beneficial in solving crime and overall public safety, it is clear much of Josephine County is not ready or willing to accept the use of ALPR technology.

We at the Sheriff’s Office work for the public and we are listening to you.  As a result, I have requested Josephine County Legal Counsel to send a “contract termination for convenience” letter to FLOCK.  Effective immediately, FLOCK ALPRs are no longer activated in rural Josephine County and the contract with the Sheriff’s Office has ended.  While some of the equipment is still in the field, it is not being used.  It is unknown when FLOCK will remove their equipment at this time.

Thank you for your continued support of the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office.  We will continue to “Protect with Courage and Serve with Compassion”.

RELEASE DATE: August 10, 2026

INCIDENT: Drowning / Reid Litwack Recovery  

INCIDENT DATE / TIME: 08/07/2026, 11:14am  

REPORTING DEPUTY: Undersheriff Snyder 

On Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 1:16pm, 911 received a message from a Garmin GPS device stating there was a rafting accident at Wildcat Rapid in the Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River, and they were unable to locate the rafter. It was reported that 65-year-old Reid Litwack, was in an inflatable raft when it got pinned in the rapid where he was swept underwater and never surfaced. Garmin was able to assist dispatchers with communicating with the rafting party while Josephine County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Search and Rescue (SAR) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) personnel developed a plan to rescue the rafting party.

At 5:30am the following morning, Deputies and BLM personnel made their way out to the rafters’ location, hiking for several hours to reach them.  The party was able to hike themselves out of the area, and BLM made arrangements to float their belongings and equipment further down river and placed it in safe keeping to be retrieved at a later time.  Between the time of the initial report and the rescue, Reid never resurfaced.

On Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:14am, 911 received a message from another GPS device stating an unrelated rafting party had discovered a body in the river downstream from the initial incident. Deputies, SAR and BLM began a recovery mission putting a raft in at Grave Creek.  BLM was able to skillfully and quickly navigate the river and reach the location after a 2-hour float where they and Deputies attempted to find the body based off information relayed in the text message.  Unfortunately, markers left to assist them were no longer there and after an extensive search of the area, they were unable to locate the body.

On Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 10:46am, Deputies once again put in Grave Creek to search.  At 2:01pm, Dispatchers received a satellite text from our Deputies that the body had successfully been located and recovered. SAR was notified and met Deputies at Black Bar Lodge to assist with transportation.

Investigators believe this to be Reid Litwack, however, confirmation will still need to be completed with the assistance of the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office.  Next of kin have been notified.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Reid during this difficult and sad time.

We would like to recognize and thank our BLM partners along with our SAR Volunteers and Black Bar Lodge for their assistance in coordinating this recovery.

This is a reminder that when rafting or enjoying the river, please make sure you are prepared for medical emergencies and have alternate forms of communication in rural areas.  Additionally, share your routes and expected return time with someone before leaving. 

ORIGINAL INFORMATION:

Date of Report: 8/4/26

Case: 26-21169

Name: Reid Litwack

Age: 65

Sex: Male

Race: Caucasian

Height: 5'4"

Weight: 140

Hair: Red/Grey

Eyes: Blue

Information: Ried was last seen on Tuesday August 4th at Wild Cat rapid in the Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River while on a rafting trip. Reid was last seen wearing a red long sleeve shirt with a hood and green pants. The photo was taken during the rafting trip. If you have any information as to his whereabouts, please contact the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, 541-474-5123. 

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office has canceld the Level 1 (Be Ready) evacuation notice for neighborhoods in southeast Springfield related to yesterday's grass fire. 

The area included in the canceled Level 1 (Be Ready) notice is:

• Homes from the intersection of Holly Street and Booth Kelly Road east to South 55th Street between Mt. Vernon Road to the south and Booth Kelly Road to the north

Searchable evacuation map: https://bit.ly/LCEvacMap

More information about evacuation levels and what they mean for you: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/Evacuation

Residents are encouraged to sign up for Lane Alerts to receive emergency notifications via phone call, text or email. 

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Sheriff’s deputies and partners evacuated homes north of the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Jasper roads along Ivy Street, Pinehurst, 54^th, 55^th, and Holly Street. Conditions are being closely monitored in case responders need to increase the evacuation area.

Mt. Vernon and 57^th Street are closed to all traffic in that area.

Fire personnel are on scene and working to protect homes and contain the fire.

People are asked to avoid area so that responders can work safely.

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At approximately 1615 hours on August 10, 2026 Lebanon Fire District Medic 31 was traveling back toward Lebanon after an interfacility transfer to Albany General Hospital, when the crew noticed a small fire burning along Highway 34 near Steckley Road.

The crew stopped and requested an engine from Lebanon Fire District. They attempted to stop the fire with the ambulance's fire extinguisher, but the fire had already grown too large. At that point, the fire was approximately 30 feet by 30 feet and spreading rapidly.

BC31 upgraded the incident to a first alarm, bringing additional engines, brush trucks, and firefighters to the scene.

By the time Engine 31 arrived, the fire had grown to approximately 75 feet by 30 feet and was rapidly moving toward a nearby house. Through the quick actions of the firefighters on Medic 31 and Engine 31, they were able to stop the fire in its tracks within just a few minutes and prevent it from reaching the residence.  Additional crews assisted with mop up the fire and ensured it was completely extinguished.

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind you to check your trailer chains before you hit the road. Dragging safety chains can strike the pavement and create sparks capable of starting a wildfire. Take a few seconds to make sure your chains are properly secured and not dragging on the roadway.  A small spark can become a fast-moving wildfire in a matter of minutes.

Lebanon, Oregon — August 8, 2026

At approximately 1438 hours on August 8, Lebanon Fire District was dispatched to the 40,000 block of Hilltop Drive for a reported mobile home fire. With the dry weather and high fire danger, there was significant risk that this fire would spread to the nearby vegetation.

Due to the rural location and lack of fire hydrants in the area, Battalion Chief 31 requested two additional water tenders to assist with water supply operations.

Upon arrival, BC31 found a fully involved double-wide mobile home with wind-driven fire rapidly spreading uphill through heavy brush toward another structure approximately 500 feet away.

Lebanon Fire District, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and mutual-aid fire crews immediately began a direct attack on the fire using engines and brush vehicles. At the same time, additional personnel, including the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, began evacuating the 18 residents from homes at the end of Hilltop Drive.

As the fire continued to spread, a second and then third alarm was requested to bring additional firefighters, apparatus, and water resources to the incident.

Firefighters faced several significant challenges, including narrow dirt roads, steep terrain, extreme heat, and thick blackberry bushes and brush that made access and movement difficult. Firefighters initially responded in structural firefighting gear for the mobile home fire but with the rapidly spreading vegetation fire, they had no time to change into wildland attire until after the fire was knocked down.

Approximately 20 minutes after BC31 arrived on scene, firefighters were able to stop the forward progress, preventing it from reaching the threatened structure. Crews continued to battle flare-ups and cool hot spots throughout the afternoon.

ODF responded with a dozer, which established a fire line around the entire fire, helping crews secure the perimeter.

Evacuations remained in place while firefighters worked to eliminate remaining threats. At approximately 1736 hours, evacuations were lifted after crews determined the immediate threat had been controlled.

Firefighters remained on scene until approximately 2000 hours completing overhaul and mop-up operations.

The only structure lost in the incident was the original mobile home. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

This incident required a significant regional response due to the rapid spread of the fire, challenging terrain, and lack of hydrants.

Lebanon Fire District was assisted by:

• Sweet Home Fire and Rescue
• Brownsville Fire District
• Halsey-Shedd Fire District
• Albany Fire Department
• Scio Fire District
• Tangent Fire District
• Oregon Department of Forestry
• Linn County Sheriff's Office

In total, the incident brought together 8 brush vehicles, 4 engines, 2 medic units with their assigned firefighters, 7 water tenders, 2 chief officers, and one dozer.

While Lebanon crews were committed to the incident, Albany Fire Department provided an engine and two medic units to Lebanon Fire District to maintain emergency response coverage within the district.

Fast-moving wildland fires like this one require a tremendous number of firefighters and resources to stop the fire's spread while simultaneously protecting threatened homes and evacuating residents. The coordinated response from fire agencies, ODF, and law enforcement was critical in stopping the fire before it reached additional structures.

Lebanon Fire District thanks all the responding agencies and firefighters who worked together to protect the residents and homes in the area.

Photo credit goes to Corbin Henderson

ENCOUNTERING BEARS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Recently, there have been an increase in the number of bear encounters in our communities. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) urges Oregonians to respect wildlife and do their part to ensure that wildlife, including black bears, and people coexist. A bear's strongest sense is smell. This means everything from trash cans to grill drippings can bring them to your property.

Bears also have a great memory when it comes to food. They remember where they have found food before, including trash. Female bears will also pass this knowledge down to their young. Intentionally or accidentally feeding bears can negatively affect multiple generations of bears.

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

Living responsibly with black bears is possible and it's up to everyone to do their part to keep people safe and bears wild. Follow these tips:

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

Share these tips with your neighbors, friends and family. A community effort is vital to preventing problems with bears and situations like the one in Cottage Grove. One person who feeds or attracts bears, intentionally or not, can pose a risk to everyone in the neighborhood.

Find out more about living responsibly with black bears at https://myodfw.com/articles/help-keep-bears-wild.”

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

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FIRE PREVENTION, PREPAREDNESS MONTH 
ANNUAL LINCOLN COUNTY READINESS FAIR

August is Fire Prevention Month, and September is National Preparedness Month. With heightened wildfire risks across Oregon, now is an important time for individuals and families to review and update their emergency plans. Preparedness is a shared responsibility—working together with relatives, neighbors, and community partners strengthens readiness and helps protect lives and property during wildfires or other disasters.

To support community preparedness, Lincoln County Emergency Management, NW Natural, and the City of Newport will host the annual Lincoln County Readiness Fair. The event is free, open to the public, and requires no registration. NW Natural will provide lunch for the first 300+ attendees and there will be raffles for preparedness kits and gear every 30 minutes.

Event Details

Saturday, September 12, 2026

11:00am - 2:00pm

Newport Recreation Center

225 SE Avery St, Newport, OR 97365

Raffles held throughout the event

This year’s raffle includes a variety of practical preparedness items, thanks in large part to funding from the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contributions Fund. Prizes include a pet go‑bag, vehicle emergency kit, LifeStraw® water filtration system, bucket toilet setup, portable emergency alert radio, and more. A Grand Prize drawing for a 72‑hour, two‑person go‑bag valued at $629 will take place at 2:00 p.m.

Exhibitors & Activities

Local and state public safety agencies and preparedness partners will be on site to answer questions, demonstrate emergency readiness techniques, and provide examples of kits, tools, and information. Attendees can:

• Bring a NOAA Weather Radio and learn how to program and operate it
• Sample emergency food options for your own go‑bag
• Explore water purification and sanitation solutions for post‑disaster scenarios
• Learn hands-on bleeding‑control techniques through Stop the Bleed
• Connect with volunteer organizations supporting disaster preparedness and response

For Local Media and Community Partners:

Media outlets and community organizations are encouraged to visit the

Lincoln County Readiness Fair website and National Preparedness Month website for outreach materials and information to assist in promoting preparedness efforts.

PREVENCIÓN DE INCENDIOS, MES DE LA PREPARACIÓN FERIA ANUAL DE PREPARACIÓN DEL CONDADO DE LINCOLN

Agosto es el Mes de la Prevención de Incendios y septiembre es el Mes Nacional de la Preparación. Con el aumento de los riesgos de incendios forestales en todo Oregón, este es un momento importante para que las personas y las familias revisen y actualicen sus planes de emergencia. La preparación es una responsabilidad compartida: trabajar juntos con familiares, vecinos y socios de la comunidad fortalece la preparación y ayuda a proteger vidas y propiedades durante los incendios forestales u otros desastres.

Para apoyar la preparación de la comunidad, la Oficina de Gestión de Emergencias del Condado de Lincoln, NW Natural y la ciudad de Newport organizarán la Feria Anual de Preparación del Condado de Lincoln. El evento es gratuito, abierto al público y no requiere inscripción. NW Natural ofrecerá almuerzo a los primeros 300 asistentes y habrá sorteos de kits y equipo de preparación cada 30 minutos.

Detales

Sábado, 12 de septiembre de 2026
11:00 a. m. - 2:00 p. m.
Centro Recreativo de Newport
225 SE Avery St, Newport, OR 97365

Se realizarán rifas durante todo el evento

La rifa de este año incluye una variedad de artículos prácticos para la preparación ante emergencias, gracias en gran parte al financiamiento del Fondo de Contribuciones Caritativas de la Tribu Siletz.

Los premios incluyen una mochila de emergencia para mascotas, un kit de emergencia para el auto, un sistema de filtración de agua LifeStraw®, un kit de baño con cubeta, una radio portátil de alerta de emergencia y más. El sorteo del gran premio, una mochila de emergencia para dos personas con provisiones para 72 horas valorada en 629 dólares, se llevará a cabo a las 2:00 p.m.

Expositores y actividades

Las agencias locales y estatales de seguridad pública, así como los socios en materia de preparación, estarán presentes para responder preguntas, demostrar técnicas de preparación para emergencias y ofrecer ejemplos de kits, herramientas e información. Los asistentes podrán:

•    Traer una radio meteorológica de la NOAA y aprender a programarla y usarla

•    Probar opciones de alimentos de emergencia para su propia mochila de emergencia

•    Explorar soluciones de purificación de agua y saneamiento para situaciones posteriores a un desastre

•    Aprender técnicas prácticas de control de hemorragias a través del programa “Stop the Bleed”

•    Conectarse con organizaciones de voluntarios que apoyan la preparación y respuesta ante desastres

Para los medios de comunicación locales y los socios comunitarios:

Media outlets and community organizations are encouraged to visit the

Lincoln County Readiness Fair website and National Preparedness Month website for outreach materials and information to assist in promoting preparedness efforts.

Se invita a los medios de comunicación y a las organizaciones comunitarias a visitar el

sitio web de la Feria de Preparación del Condado de Lincoln y el sitio web del Mes Nacional de la Preparación, donde encontrarán materiales de divulgación e información que les ayudarán a promover las iniciativas de preparación.

QUARTERLY COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY – LINCOLN CITY

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM for a cup of coffee at Pioneer Joe Coffee Company’s 51^st street location (869 SW 51st St., Lincoln City, OR 97367).

More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
 

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
 

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Lincoln County, — August 8, 2026 — This morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office by mobilizing Task Force 62 in support of the Brewer Fire - Rowe Creek Complex – West, in Central Oregon. located approximately 11.5 miles East of Madras, in Crook and Jefferson Counties, in Central Oregon.

Task Force #62 is comprised of units from Lincoln, Tillamook, and Yamhill Counties with the following resources.

Depoe Bay Fire (Lincoln Co.) - HB21 - (Type 3 Engine) (3 Firefighters)
Netarts-Oceanside Fire (Tillamook Co.) - E62 - (Type 3 Engine) (3 Firefighters)
Dayton Fire (Yamhill Co.) - BR6 - (Type 6 Engine) (2 Firefighters)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - BR16 - (Type 6 Engine) (2 Firefighters)
Siletz Valley Fire (Lincoln Co.) - WT52 - (Water Tender) (2 Firefighters)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - C-11 - (Task Force Leader) (1 Firefighter)

Personnel from Central Coast Fire are assisting by filling positions on various apparatus assigned to Task Force 62. The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Chief Cody Heidt of North Lincoln Fire Rescue.
Task Force 62 departed Lincoln County this morning at 06:30 hours and is currently en route to the staging area in Prineville, Oregon. The task force is expected to arrive at approximately 12:00 hours and will be assigned to operational duties upon arrival.

The Brewer Fire – Rowe Creek Complex, which started on July 15, 2026, is one of several significant wildfires currently burning across Oregon. The complex is estimated at more than 357,895 acres, with structures threatened and additional resources continuing to support suppression efforts. Firefighters are expected to encounter challenging conditions, particularly as temperatures increase and dry conditions persist.
Task Force 62 may remain deployed for up to 14 days, depending on fire activity, operational needs, and the needs of the incident.

This deployment marks the sixth request for resources from Lincoln County fire agencies by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) during the current period of heightened wildfire activity. The firefighters and apparatus assigned to Task Force 62 join personnel from across Oregon who are working to protect lives, property, communities, and natural resources as the statewide wildfire response continues.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I want to recognize and thank the firefighters and partner agencies that continue to answer these requests for assistance. Their willingness to leave their home communities and serve wherever they are needed reflects the dedication and professionalism of our firefighters and the strength of Oregon's mutual aid system.

Even as Lincoln County resources are deployed throughout the state, our local fire agencies remain committed to maintaining emergency response capabilities here at home. At the same time, we ask residents and visitors to help reduce the potential for additional wildfire starts. Outdoor debris burning remains prohibited throughout Lincoln County, and everyone should use extreme caution with any activity that could produce a spark or ignite dry vegetation.

During periods of elevated fire danger, even a small spark can have significant consequences. Every preventable wildfire places additional demands on firefighting resources that are already heavily committed across the state. Every wildfire prevented helps protect our communities while allowing available resources to remain focused on the incidents already threatening lives and property.

The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board appreciates the continued support of our communities as our firefighters assist our fellow Oregonians. By remaining vigilant, following current fire restrictions, and taking personal responsibility for wildfire prevention, residents and visitors can make a meaningful difference.

Please keep the communities affected by these fires in your thoughts, particularly those who have been displaced or whose homes and livelihoods are threatened. We also ask you to keep the firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, incident management teams, and support personnel who continue working long hours under difficult conditions in your thoughts as they work to protect communities across Oregon.

Lincoln County, — August 7, 2026 — On Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 05:00 am, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office to pre-position Task Force 52 to Sutherlin, Oregon, in Douglas County to bolster response in the area due to Red Flag warnings in the area.

Task Force #52 is comprised of units from Lincoln & Tillamook Counties with the following resources.

North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - E-15 - (Type 3 Engine)
Central County Fire (Lincoln Co.) - HB-73 - (Type 3 Engine)
Newport Fire ( Lincoln Co.) - BR-31 - (Type 6 Engine)
Seal Rock Fire (Lincoln Co.) - BR-62 - (Type 6 Engine)
Tillamook Bay Fire (Tillamook Co.) - WT-71 - (Water Tender)
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.) - C-1 - (Task Force Leader)

The deployment is being led by Task Force Leader Chief Rob Dahlman of North Lincoln Fire & Rescue.

Task Force 52 departed Lincoln County early Thursday morning at 05:00 hours and arrived at its pre-positioning location in Sutherlin at approximately 09:00 hours. The task force was initially assigned to pre-position in the area, allowing resources to respond rapidly to any new wildfire starts with the goal of containing incidents while they are still small and before they can threaten communities. Pre-positioning assignments are typically a 72-hour commitment.

However, during the second day of the assignment, Task Force 52 was redirected from its pre-positioning mission to assist with the Wrights Spring Fire in Klamath County.
The Wrights Spring Fire experienced rapid growth following its start on August 5, 2026. Significant fire activity over the past day has increased the need for additional firefighting resources. The fire is currently estimated at 8,772 acres, and firefighters continue to face challenging conditions as suppression operations move forward.

With Task Force 52 now committed to the Wrights Spring Fire, what began as a 72-hour pre-positioning assignment may now extend to up to 14 days, depending on fire activity, incident needs, and operational requirements.

Task Force 52 represents the fifth deployment of Lincoln County fire resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) this week. What began as a pre-positioning assignment has now transitioned into an active wildfire deployment, adding Lincoln County firefighters and apparatus to the growing statewide response. These personnel are working alongside firefighters from across Oregon to protect lives, property, communities, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I extend my sincere appreciation to the firefighters and agencies that continue to answer the call to assist our fellow Oregonians. Their willingness to leave their home communities and serve wherever they are needed demonstrates the professionalism and dedication of our firefighters and the strength of Oregon's mutual aid system.

As wildfire activity increases across the state, we ask residents and visitors to remain vigilant and use extreme caution with any activity that could start a fire. Avoid operating equipment that may produce sparks during the hottest and driest portions of the day, fully extinguish campfires where they are permitted, and never discard smoking materials on the ground or from a vehicle.

We also continue to remind everyone that a debris burning ban remains in effect throughout Lincoln County. These restrictions are an important part of reducing the risk of preventable, human-caused wildfires during this period of elevated fire danger.

We are grateful for the continued support of our communities as Lincoln County personnel assist with wildfire response efforts across Oregon. While our firefighters are answering the call elsewhere in the state, each of us can do our part here at home by following current fire restrictions and taking precautions to prevent additional wildfire starts.

Please keep the residents and communities affected by the Wrights Spring Fire, as well as the firefighters, emergency responders, and incident support personnel working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts as suppression efforts continue.

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on August 9, 2026 at 5:41 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing person at Lewis Creek Park in Sweet Home. It was reported that Shuaib Ahmed Mubarak, 37, of Corvallis, was visiting the park with family and friends and had not been seen for approximately one hour. 

While deputies were responding to the park to conduct a search for Mubarak, two swimmers reported seeing a person submerged in approximately 10 feet of water within the enclosed swimming area of the park.  Personnel from the Sweet Home Fire Department and members of the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team responded and pulled the person from the water.  The person was confirmed to be Mubarak, who was confirmed to be deceased.  Mubarak was transported to Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.  Our thoughts are with Mubarak’s friends and family during this difficult time.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information on this incident, or who may have seen Mubarak at the park, is asked to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 967-3950 and reference case number 26-03091. 

Stayton, Ore. - Marion County Sheriff's Office deputies were looking for a wanted suspect at a residence in the 400 block of W. Locust Street in Stayton.

As deputies set up in the area, the suspect fled from the residence and was apprehended several blocks away. There was a strong law enforcement presence in the area during the incident; however, the suspect is now in custody and there is no danger to the community.

We would like to thank the Stayton Police Department for their assistance.

The suspect had outstanding warrants, and additional charges are pending.

No additional information will be available this evening.

Incident: Attempt to Elude and Reckless Driving

Location: NW 6^th Street & N Hwy 101, Newport

Date/Time: August 9^th, 2026 @ 0042 hours

Details: On August 9^th, 2026, at around 0040 hours, Newport Police arrested SHATAHA BEGGS 19, of Siletz, after she attempted to elude police in her vehicle. The event started when a Newport Officer observed a 2000 Toyota Camry with no license plates traveling through Newport at a high rate of speed. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle and as they did, the vehicle failed to yield and continued driving. The vehicle turned eastbound on Hwy 20, running through a red light at the intersection at a high rate of speed. Newport officers and Deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office pursued the vehicle eastbound on Hwy 20 towards Toledo as the vehicle reached speeds around 90 MPH and was passing slower moving vehicles.

An Officer from the Toledo Police Department responded to assist and effectively deployed spike strips near the Hwy 20/ Business Hwy 20 West Junction, disabling the front passenger tire of the suspect vehicle. The vehicle continued driving into the City of Toledo even as one of their tires was deflated. The vehicle ultimately was disabled and came to a stop on SE Butler Bridge near SE East Slope and Beggs and two other occupants of the vehicle were detained.

Officers observed evidence that Beggs was impaired. Officers located a usable quantity of cocaine and a loaded handgun concealed underneath the driver’s seat.

Beggs was arrested at the scene and lodged in Lincoln County for the following charges;

SHATAHA BEGGS, 19

• Reckless Driving
• Recklessly Endangering Another Person
• Attempting to Elude Police Officer (Felony)
• Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants
• Unlawful Possession of Firearm
• Unlawful Possession of Cocaine

The incident remains under investigation.  If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Mangum 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. Bales, 541-574-3348

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UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Oregon State Police came upon a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 395 and Interstate 84 in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Honda CRV, operated by Jeffrey Downer McGowan (51) of Woodinville, Washington, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 84 near Pendleton when the vehicle left the freeway for an unknown reason. The vehicle entered the median, became airborne, and landed in the center of Hwy. 395, where it caught fire and became engulfed in flames. Responding troopers were able to extricate the driver from the vehicle.

The passenger in the Honda, Riley Finnegan McGowan (21) of Woodinville, Washington, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Honda (Jeffrey McGowan) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Highway 395 was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Pendleton Police Department, Pendleton Fire & Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  
 

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

GILLIAM COUNTY, Ore. (13 August 2026) – On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 2:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 123 in Gilliam County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound red Land Rover LR4 hauling an Airstream trailer, operated by James Thomas Raugust (77) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had pulled onto the right shoulder of the interstate with a flat tire. An Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) white Ford F550 maintenance truck, operated by Roger Vincent Birkeland of Arlington, had stopped to assist the disabled vehicle. The ODOT vehicle was parked behind the disabled vehicle blocking the right lane of travel with a large electronic reader board alerting oncoming traffic to move over. A westbound white Toyota Highlander, operated by Burke Lloyd Oneal (48) of Vancouver, Washington, struck the rear of the ODOT truck, lost control, and struck Raugust and Birkeland as they changed the flat tire.

The operator of the Land Rover (Raugust) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the ODOT maintenance truck (Birkeland) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.

A passenger in the Land Rover, Melodie Marie Raugust (80) of Ocean Shores, Washington, had reported minor injuries.

The operator of the Toyota (Oneal) had reported minor injuries.

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

The crash remains under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department, Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (12 August 2026) – On Sunday, August 9, 2026, at approximately 12:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 101 near milepost 352 in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a black Triumph motorcycle, operated by Louis Henry Vowell III (36) of Sisters, was traveling northbound on Highway 101 near the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint at a high rate of speed when it attempted to overtake multiple vehicles in a passing lane. When the motorcycle entered the passing lane, it collided with the rear of a gray Mazda CX-5, operated by Russell Keith Moore (56) of Pulaski, Arkansas, which was turning westbound into the Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint. The rider was thrown from the motorcycle and subsequently struck by a gray Mercedes Sprinter van, operated by Jeffrey Alan Ludwick (58) of Rogue River.

The Triumph operator (Vowell) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Mazda (Moore) and two adult passengers were reportedly not injured.

The operator of the Mercedes (Ludwick) and an adult passenger were reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Cape Ferrelo Rural Fire Department, Brookings Fire & Rescue, Cal-Ore Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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

CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 286 in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Buick Lucerne, operated by Joni Marie Williams (63) of Bandon, was traveling southbound on Highway 101 near Langlois when it crossed the centerline for an unknown reason. The Buick collided head-on with a northbound silver Pontiac Vibe, operated by Hunter Lee Sturgill (18) of Coos Bay.

The operator of the Buick (Williams) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Pontiac (Sturgill) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Bandon Police Department, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, the Sixes Rural Fire Protection District, the Langlois Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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

LAKE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 8, 2026, at approximately 10:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 140 near milepost 56 in Lake County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Dodge Challenger, operated by Juan Luis Perez Garcia (23) of Tule Lake, California, was traveling eastbound on Highway 140 in a remote area of Lake County when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled several times down an embankment.

The operator (Perez Garcia) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A passenger in the Dodge, Cristo Jesus Herrera (20) of Tule Lake, California, was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital with serious injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Search and Rescue, Lake County EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  

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

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (10 August 2026) – On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:56 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 58 near milepost 42 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Toyota 4Runner, operated by Colton Zachary Bias (25) of Springfield, was traveling westbound on Highway 58 near Oakridge when it entered the oncoming lane of travel for an unknown reason. The 4Runner collided head-on with an eastbound white Mack commercial motor vehicle, operated by Collin Mitchell Owens (60) of Springfield.

A 4Runner passenger, Marjorie Rae Spence (40) of Eugene, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the 4Runner (Bias) was transported to an area hospital, where he died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

A 4Runner passenger, Kaylee Dail Cardwell (38) of Westfir, was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The operator of the Mack (Owens) was reported not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Oakridge Fire Department, the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (7 August 2026) – In the early morning hours of August 7, 2026, the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) team, an interagency HIDTA drug task force based in Linn County, in collaboration with the Oregon State Police, Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the West Side Interagency Narcotics (WIN) team, served two search warrants connected to illegal marijuana growing operations on two properties near Hubbard.

During the operation, several individuals were identified as potential victims of labor trafficking and had allegedly been forced to work at the sites. The individuals were given on-site access to resources through Safety Compass, a local non-profit that provides support to victims of human trafficking.

In addition to hygiene kits and emergency food, Safety Compass offered on-site interpreters, confidential advocacy, and connections to resources such as shelter, legal assistance, and victim services, as well as other culturally specific services based on individual needs.

Individuals reported poor living conditions and restrictions on leaving the property. Many reported coming to the properties under the assumption of legal work and said they had received unofficial work contracts.

Of the 17 individuals contacted as part of the investigation, 16 adults were released without charges.

One adult male suspect was cited in lieu of custody for possession of cocaine, and charges of unlawful manufacture of marijuana will be referred to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office. Additional referrals to the District Attorney’s Office include charges against another adult male for unlawful manufacture of marijuana, as well as two property owners for conspiracy to unlawfully manufacture marijuana.

Investigators seized approximately 47,595 marijuana plants, 80 pounds of processed marijuana, a small amount of cocaine, and nine firearms between the two locations.

Superintendent Casey Codding said, “It is deplorable for anyone to be forced to work against their will. Labor trafficking is often intertwined with other forms of illegal activity. Our priority is the safety and well-being of potential victims.” When troopers encounter signs of labor trafficking, OSP works with qualified partners to connect individuals voluntarily with advocacy, services, and other available resources.

OSP is coordinating with the Oregon Department of Human Services and victim-service partners to support voluntary connections to available services and resources.

The operation was conducted in keeping with Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise laws, which prohibit law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement efforts.

This remains an active investigation, and no additional details are available for release at this time.

For 24/7 confidential help finding resources or to report human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “INFO” to 233733. In northwest Oregon, Safety Compass also offers a 24/7 confidential hotline at 971-235-0021.

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About the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) Team
The LINE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. LINE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is composed of members from the Albany Police Department, Oregon State Police, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and Oregon National Guard Counter Drug.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement team.

PF&R Responds to HazMat Chemical Spill

At 5:24 AM Portland Fire & Rescue responded to an emergency incident with reports of a tanker truck with a leak from the tank on Hayden Island, PF&R Engine 17 responded, confirmed active leak in 5000-gallon tank with Sulfuric Acid actively flowing onto the roadway and moving toward storm drains. The Hazardous Materials Team was activated, a safety perimeter established, and sand-absorbent were ordered from PBOT and ODOT for storm drain protection and clean up.

PBOT delivered 2 separate loads of sand with members of PF&R using to put together two independent piles to act as absorbing dams to slow the flow of the liquid into the storm drain. An estimated 100 gallons of liquid entered the storm drain prior to our arrival and damming up of the area with DEQ and BES notified of the spill. The PF&R HazMat Coordinator is working with the contracted clean-up crew to ensure the clean-up procedures are appropriate for the given concentration of Sulfuric Acid being transported.

There are no reported injuries or extended health risks to the community. PF&R would like to thank PPB, ODOT, PBOT, and BOEC for their assistance with this emergency response.

###

14 people were arrested in a recent retail theft mission, which also led to the recovery of stolen merchandise, a stolen car and methamphetamine.

The mission was held on August 5th as part of a national Organized Retail Crime enforcement effort. During these missions, patrol officers and detectives work directly with loss prevention employees at local stores to monitor criminal activity in real time and make arrests on site.

During this mission, officers and detectives recovered about $1,000 in stolen merchandise and made the following arrests:

• Sophie Singleton: theft I
• Joshua Durrant: theft 3
• Diane Nusbaum: theft 3
• Stefan White: theft 3
• Nicholas Parham: arrest warrants x3
• Thomas Smalley: felony arrest warrant
• Garrett Carlson: theft 3, arrest warrants x2
• Gadise O’Donel: theft 3
• Jaylee Kolbe-Williams: theft 3
• Juvenile: theft 3
• Juvenile: theft 3
• Juvenile: theft 2
• Juvenile: theft 2
• Juvenile: theft 3

The Tigard Police Commercial Crimes Unit (CCU) works with regional partners and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office to conduct these proactive retail theft missions at various stores throughout the year to deter theft and other criminal activity. Learn more at www.tigard-or.gov/CCU.

###

Dozens of firefighters responded Saturday afternoon to a fire at a waste management facility in Washington County that sent embers into a nearby 40-acre field of cut grass, igniting a spot fire that grew into a larger brush fire. Approximately 25 acres of the field burned.

At around 4:20 p.m., 911 dispatchers began receiving multiple reports of a large column of black smoke coming from the area of the landfill on Southwest Minter Bridge Road. Firefighters arrived to find a fire at the landfill and soon identified a spot fire caused by embers landing in the dry grass south of the landfill.

The spot fire quickly grew and spread through the nearby field of cut grass. Gusty winds contributed to the fire's spread, allowing flames to move rapidly through the grass and creating additional spot fires.

As the brush fire made a run toward nearby residences, two homes were evacuated as a precaution. Fire crews established structure protection around the homes and successfully prevented the fire from damaging either residence.

Due to the rural location and terrain, firefighters used brush rigs, engines, water tenders and other resources to attack the brush fire from multiple directions.

The landfill portion of the fire covered a little more than one acre. Two bulldozers were used to contain the fire, which consisted of trash and tires.

By the evening, crews had stopped the forward progress of the brush fire and were conducting mop-up operations.

One Hillsboro firefighter working at the landfill fire suffered minor injuries related to overexertion in the heat. The firefighter was assessed on scene.

A fire investigator is working to determine the cause of the landfill fire.

SW Minter Bridge Road was temporarily closed during the response to provide a safe operating area for firefighters and emergency equipment. The Washington County Sheriff's Office assisted with traffic control.

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue was assisted by Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Cornelius Fire Department and Forest Grove Fire & Rescue. The Beaverton Police Department provided a drone to assist with aerial size-up and situational awareness. TVF&R also thanks WCCCA for its dispatch coordination during the incident.

Drone footage and scene video available here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 10, 2026

VANCOUVER, Wash. — At approximately 3:45 p.m. Monday, Vancouver Fire Department crews responded to a fire at 22217 NE 28th Street after several callers reported flames coming from a detached garage or shop.

Firefighters arrived to find the outbuilding fully engulfed in flames. The fire had also begun spreading to nearby brush, and an abandoned house stood approximately 20 feet away. Crews quickly brought the fire under control and prevented it from spreading to the house.

The vacant house was in severely deteriorated condition, including holes in the floors, making it unsafe for firefighters to enter. Crews searched the property from safe areas and confirmed that no one was inside the house or outbuilding.

One nearby resident was evaluated at the scene for possible smoke inhalation. The person did not require ambulance transportation. No other injuries were reported.

Preliminary information indicates the fire began after people staying on or frequenting the property burned trash in the lot. The flames then spread to the outbuilding. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded to investigate the incident and to determine the official cause.

Firefighters remained at the property to extinguish remaining hot spots and ensure the fire did not rekindle. The power company also responded and disconnected electricity to the affected outbuilding.

The Vancouver Fire Department wants to remind the public that outdoor burning can be extremely dangerous and can quickly lead to uncontrolled fires, especially during dry conditions. Residents are urged to properly dispose of waste and debris and to report any unsafe burning or abandoned structures that may pose a fire risk.

Residents are also encouraged to check current burn restrictions and air quality conditions before any outdoor burning activity. Burn bans and restrictions may be in effect depending on weather and fire danger levels. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the following agencies:

-Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA): Responsible for air quality regulations, residential burning rules, and daily burn status updates. View the real-time status map at the SWCAA Interactive Burn Map or call 360-574-3058

-Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office: Issues and enforces local emergency and seasonal fire safety burn bans. Call 564-397-2186 or check updates through Clark County Community Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 10, 2026

VANCOUVER, Wash. — At approximately 4:06 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, the Vancouver Fire Department received multiple 911 calls reporting several vehicles on fire at the Alan Webb Chevrolet dealership.

Vancouver Fire Department units BC1, Truck 5, Engine 5, and Squad 5 were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, crews found multiple vehicles actively burning in the dealership parking lot. 

Firefighters quickly established a water supply and used hose lines to bring the fire under control and extinguish remaining hot spots.

A total of 12 vehicles sustained varying levels of fire damage. No injuries were reported. The total financial loss is unknown at this point.

“Vehicle fires can spread very quickly, especially when multiple cars are parked close together,” said Vancouver Fire Department Public Information Officer Anthony West. “Crews from station 5 worked quickly to contain the fire and prevent further damage throughout the lot.”

The Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene, along with the Vancouver Police Department’s Arson Unit, to assist with the investigation. This incident remains under active investigation. 

VA Portland HCS today announced its participation in a new clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of psilocybin to treat major depression in Veterans, including those with concurrent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The new trial comes after President Trump’s recent executive order on “Accelerating Medical Treatments for Serious Mental Illness.” Among other things, the order aims to increase clinical trial participation and accelerate innovative research models and drug approvals for psychedelic drugs.

“VA Portland is committed to exploring every evidence-based avenue to improve the mental health and well‑being of the Veterans we serve,” said Karla Azcuy Director of The VA Portland HCS “By participating in this trial, our facility is helping advance innovative research into new treatment options that may offer meaningful relief for Veterans, both here in the Portland/Vancouver area and across the country.”

VA’s trial, titled "Psilocybin Intervention for Veterans Overcoming Treatment-Resistant Depression," or PIVOT, reflects VA's commitment to pursuing innovative, evidence-based solutions for Veterans who have not responded to existing treatments.

The randomized, controlled trial will enroll Veterans diagnosed with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, with or without concurrent PTSD, and will compare outcomes between two dosages of psilocybin. The study will measure effectiveness by comparing participants’ levels of depression before treatment and after treatment. It will also assess PTSD symptom severity, tolerability of side effects, and overall patient-reported depression.

The health and safety of Veterans who choose to participate in this trial is VA’s top priority. Investigational treatments will be delivered in a safe, controlled, clinical setting using pharmaceutical-grade drugs under careful quality controls, stringent safety protocols that were developed with FDA, and in a setting that includes psychological support.

Psychedelic drugs are a class of substances that alter consciousness or awareness and can be organically or synthetically produced. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted breakthrough therapy designation to several companies developing psychedelic substances, including MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD, allowing for expedited review of these drugs. Clinical use of these therapies outside of research will only be considered by VA once FDA approval is granted.

VA strongly discourages self-medicating or attempting to replace other mental health treatment options with psychedelics or any other unprescribed substances. Proven, evidence-based treatments, are currently available at VA facilities to treat Veterans with mental health conditions. Veterans should always consult their health care providers before making any treatment decisions.

The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07226232).

For more information, contact Megan Crowley at megan.crowley@va.gov or 503915807.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WVCI Expands Access to Advanced PET/CT Technology to Strengthen Comprehensive Cancer Care Offering

Powerful new PET/CT technology advances WVCI’s commitment to state-of-the-art imaging, coordinated cancer care, and the future introduction of radiopharmaceutical capabilities. 
 

EUGENE, Ore. — [August, 11, 2026] — Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center (“WVCI”) announces the addition of PET/CT imaging technology with the installation of a new Siemens Biograph Trinion PET/CT scanner at its Eugene location this month. The technology provides patients a new, convenient option for advanced imaging and supports a higher level of coordinated cancer care for patients in the Willamette Valley.
 

PET/CT imaging combines PET (positron emission tomography), which shows tumor activity and location, with CT (computed tomography), which shows detailed images of the body’s anatomy, in one advanced scan. Together, these technologies help physicians identify health concerns quickly and accurately, supporting early detection, accurate diagnosis, and confident treatment planning.

By using PET/CT imaging early in the care planning process, WVCI care teams can see where cancer may be present and whether it has spread. This information helps physicians determine the stage of cancer, plan the next steps in care, and monitor how well treatment is working over time.
 

“Our new scanner gives our physicians highly detailed images that can detect exceptionally small areas of concern,” said Tina Nelson, Senior PET/CT technologist at WVCI.
 

The new PET/CT system is also designed with the patient experience in mind. Faster, lower-dose imaging may help shorten the time patients spend in the scanner and limit radiation exposure. Comfort features, including mood lighting and continued communication with imaging staff, are intended to help patients feel informed, supported, and more at ease during the exam.
 

“We want the experience to feel as reassuring as possible,” explains Nelson. “The new features help our imaging team do that by staying connected with patients and fostering a calming environment, which helps minimize clinical anxiety.”  
                                                                             

The PET/CT technology also supports WVCI’s introduction of radiopharmaceutical capabilities later this year. Radiopharmaceuticals are specialized medicines that contain small amounts of radioactive material and may be used to help diagnose and, in some cases, treat certain cancers. As this program develops, WVCI will share additional information with patients, referring providers, and community partners.

“For patients, this is about more than new technology,” Nelson said. “It brings cutting-edge imaging to where our patients are, alongside the cancer care team they already know. It’s helping reduce the physical and emotional burden of traveling to multiple locations for separate appointments.”
 

The new PET/CT scanner is available now for patients of WVCI. Details about future radiopharmaceutical capabilities will be shared as they are finalized later this year.

Patients who would like more information about WVCI’s imaging and cancer care services may call 541.683.5001. 
 

About Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center

The Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center is a member of the US Oncology Network of over 1,200 independent physicians, dedicated to delivering value-based, integrated care to patients – close to home in Albany, Corvallis, Eugene, Florence, Newport, and Springfield.  As part of the Network community, we share expertise and resources to advance local cancer care and deliver better patient outcomes. WVCI also participates in clinical trials through US Oncology Research and Sarah Cannon Research Institute, which have played a role in more than 100 FDA-approved cancer therapies, approximately one-third of all cancer therapies approved by the FDA to date.

Media Contact:
  Christy Curtis
  Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center
  541-632-3156
  Christy.Curtis@usoncology.com

Bend, Ore. -- Most evacuation levels have been lifted for the Hidden Forest Fire, with one Level 3 (Go Now) evacuation area still in place along Forest Service Road 18 near Arnold Ice Cave.

Heavy machinery, engines, and personnel continue working throughout the Level 3 (Go Now) zone. Forest Service Road 18 remains closed for public safety. Please avoid the area until the closure is lifted.

To receive timely emergency and evacuation notifications, sign up for Deschutes Alerts at deschutesalerts.org.

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Bend, Ore. – As of 9:00 p.m., on Friday, August 7, most evacuation notices related to the Hidden Forest Fire southeast of Bend have been reduced or lifted. Fire crews made strong progress throughout the afternoon and have successfully stopped the fire’s forward movement.

Thanks to an aggressive aerial attack using retardant from air tankers and water from helicopter drops, crews were able to slow the fire significantly. Ground resources then built a line around the fire and secured the perimeter.

Reduced to normal status

LAP 569-A and LAP 569-B, South of the 18 Rd.

Reduced to Level 1 (Be Ready).

EAS 702-B Horse Ridge Frontage Rd area.

Remaining in Level 3 (Go Now)

EAS 701 North side of 18 rd between the 1819 rd and Horse Ridge Rd 2015.

Remaining in Level 1 (Be Ready)

EAS 702-A remains in Level 1 (Be Ready) Ft. Rock Rd and Hwy 20 area, West of Spencer well Rd

The Hidden Forest Fire has burned about 297 acres, mostly in sagebrush and juniper trees. Firefighters will remain on scene overnight to strengthen containment lines and monitor for hot spots, but no additional growth is expected.

The August Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Meeting will be held August 12, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on August 12, 2026

The Board meeting agenda and packet and additional information regarding TVWD are available here.

About TVWD 

TVWD serves about 61,000 customers in parts of Washington County, Oregon. Our service area covers more than 41 square miles including portions of Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and unincorporated Washington County.

TVWD is the managing agency for the Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS), an additional water supply for the region which is being constructed in partnership with the City of Hillsboro and the City of Beaverton. The WWSS includes intake facilities, over 30 miles of pipes, a water treatment plant and two storage reservoirs. The system will deliver fresh, high-quality, treated water from the Willamette River to 400,000 Washington County residents and businesses, and is being built to the highest seismic safety standard to recover quickly after a major earthquake. The investments in the system will provide reliable, quality drinking water for generations to come.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Air National Guard activated 44 Airmen Aug. 7, 2026, to support wildland firefighting on the Grasshopper Fire in the Mount Hood National Forest, marking the first time in the organization's history that Air National Guard personnel have led the state's ground firefighting response.

"The Oregon National Guard embodies the very best of Oregon – service, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “This activation today reflects our shared resolve to stand together this wildfire season and safeguard the people and places we love."

Two 22-person hand crews, one from the 142nd Wing at Portland Air National Guard Base and one from the 173rd Fighter Wing in Klamath Falls, mobilized today at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem before heading to a fire camp near the Warm Springs area, though the exact location may shift as the fire's footprint changes.

Col. Ryan Barton, deputy commander of the Oregon Joint Domestic Operations Command, said the Oregon Department of Forestry requested the additional ground teams after its own firefighting resources were nearly exhausted.

"Every year it's a really unique thing for the partnership between Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon National Guard to make sure that we're there to be ready to assist when needed," Barton said. "This year is really unique also because normally we'll have the Army ground teams go out first, but the Oregon Air National Guard is the first two teams out the door."

Barton said the mission is expected to last 14 days, with two additional Air National Guard teams on standby if the fire requires further support, followed by Army National Guard ground teams if the mission continues to grow.

As of Aug. 7, approximately 80 Oregon National Guard members were activated in support of the state's wildfire response, including one HH-60M helicopter supporting search and rescue medevac operations, two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and two CH-47 Chinook helicopters flying water bucket missions. Those aircraft have completed 237 water bucket drops, delivering approximately 256,150 gallons of water on Oregon wildfires.

Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's Adjutant General, addressed the departing Airmen before they left for fire camp, calling the moment a significant one for the state.

"This is one of the worst fire seasons Oregon's had in a long time," Gronewold said. "People are losing their homes and their property, and you are going out there to help protect those Oregonians, protect our citizens, and that's part of our job."

Gronewold said the mission reflects a new milestone for the organization.

"This is huge for Oregon citizens to see their National Guard going out and fighting wildland fires," Gronewold said. "It's probably the first time ever that the Air National Guard has led the way on hand crews. Thank you to both wings for stepping up and doing this."

Command Chief Master Sgt. Brent Cavanias, Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard, told the Airmen their work carries weight beyond the fire line.

"Your presence out there is reassuring to Oregonians," Cavanias said. "There's high confidence and trust in the National Guard, and what you do out there is important."

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1018025/oregon-air-national-guard-hand-crews-activated-fight-grasshopper-fire

Released Photos:

260807-Z-ZJ128-1001
Oregon Air National Guard airmen with the 142nd Wing and 173rd Fighter Wing arrive by charter bus at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, to begin Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration ahead of deploying as part of two 22-person hand crews supporting wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire in the Mount Hood National Forest.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260807-Z-ZJ128-1002
U.S. Air Force Maj. Jon Hotchkiss welcomes Oregon Air National Guard airmen to a State Active Duty personnel briefing during Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, ahead of their deployment to support wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260807-Z-ZJ128-1003
U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Barton, deputy commander of the Oregon Joint Domestic Operations Command, addresses Oregon Air National Guard airmen before a State Active Duty personnel briefing during Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, ahead of their deployment to support wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260807-Z-ZJ128-1005
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, holds up two fingers to signify the two hand crews activated Aug. 7, 2026, while explaining to Oregon Air National Guard airmen how additional Air and Army Guard crews would be composed if further support is needed, during a State Active Duty personnel briefing in Salem, Ore.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

2026 Wildfire-Response.pdf

Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families are invited to attend the 2026 Veteran Benefit Expo, Oregon’s largest statewide veteran resource event, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at Douglas Hall at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Roseburg.

Presented by the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the free event will bring together more than 100 service providers and experts from federal, state, county, Tribal, nonprofit, educational and community organizations to help veterans learn about and access the benefits, services and opportunities they have earned through their military service.

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect one-on-one with benefit specialists and resource providers offering information and assistance on topics including VA health care, disability claims, employment, education, housing, mental health, long-term care, recreation, emergency assistance and more. 

“Navigating veteran benefits can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be,” said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Our Veteran Benefit Expo is designed to be a one-stop shop, making it easier for veterans and their families to get answers, discover new resources and connect with people who are ready to help. Whether you’ve been out of the military for six months or 60 years, we encourage you to come see what’s available to you.”

Since launching in 2015, the Veteran Benefit Expo has become ODVA's signature annual outreach event, traveling to communities across Oregon to improve access to earned benefits while strengthening connections between veterans and the organizations that serve them. 

The Oregon Lottery returns as the Expo's presenting partner. Since voters overwhelmingly approved Measure 96 in 2016, more than $184 million in Lottery funding has been allocated to veterans’ services in Oregon,  helping expand programs and services that improve the lives of Oregon veterans and their families throughout the state.
“We’re proud to support events like this in our local communities so veterans can access important benefits and resources,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “In fiscal year 2025, a total of $191,824 in Lottery revenue went to Douglas County.”

The Veteran Benefit Expo is free and open to the public. No registration is required to attend.

For additional information, visit expo.oregondva.com, or contact ODVA at LIC_INFO@odva.oregon.gov">ODVA_PUBLIC_INFO@odva.oregon.gov. 

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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The third quarterly meeting of 2026 for the Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will be held virtually and in person on Wednesday, September 9, in the College Union Crater Lake Complex at the Oregon Institute of Technology, located at 3201 Campus Drive in Klamath Falls. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a town hall meeting at 11:30 a.m., which is open to the public.

Established in 1945, the Advisory Committee holds a distinct and fundamental role in advising the director and staff of ODVA. The nine members of the committee are military veterans from all corners of the state, appointed by the governor to serve and act as advocates for veteran issues and veteran concerns across Oregon.

Following every quarterly business meeting, the committee holds a town hall inviting the public to raise questions or concerns about broad veteran issues or to share information with the committee and agency director.

Members of the community are also invited to submit written public comments to the committee by emailing odva_vaac@odva.oregon.gov. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the first Wednesday of March, June, September and December.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Please register at https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/2bbb86dc-82be-45fd-b9e6-e2affb3e1d63@aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf to attend the business or town hall portion of this meeting.

Attendees will be allowed to participate during the town hall portion only and will be invited to turn on their camera and unmute mics during a recorded meeting that will be posted online at a later date.

More information about the Advisory Committee and meeting materials can be found online at www.oregon.gov/odva/Connect/Pages/Advisory-Committee.aspx.

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 services office online at oregon.gov/odva.

# # #

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, August 26, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve July 22, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Juan Gonzalez, DPSST No. 67518; DOC/Two Rivers Correctional Institution

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – September 23, 2026, 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.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 19, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Darryl Fink, PS No. 058027

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Joseph Sanchez Sr., PS No. 086458

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

5. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0015, 259-060-0030, and 259-060-0145

   Relating to Interpretation of a Reasonable Request

   Presented by Jennifer Howald

6. Sub-Committee Appointments

• Ryan Loosli - Private Investigator, Appointment to the Private Investigator Sub-Committee, 1st term effective August 18, 2026.

7. Agency Update

8. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – November 17, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

PRIVATE SECURITY ENTITY RULES ADVISORY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The Private Security Entity Rules Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., in Conference Room A234 at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at (503) 551-3258 or jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be recorded and posted on the DPSST official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Review of Draft Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 259 Division 59, the Private Security Entity Licensing Program

Carried over from July 23, 2026, OAR 259-059-0100 through 259-059-0440

3. Review of Discussion Topics

Carried over from July 23, 2026

           a. General Liability Insurance Coverage Requirements

           b. Tax Compliance Certification Requirement

           c. Surety Bond or Deposit Amounts for Proof of Ability to Pay Wages Requirements

           d. Rule Placement of Record Keeping Requirements

           e. Additional Discussion Topics as Needed

4. Next Workgroup Meeting – August 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos 48 horas antes de la reunión.

POLICE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be livestreamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 21 and June 23, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

    a) Kevin Berry; DPSST No. 55941

              Basic and Intermediate Police Certifications

    b) Kelly Valentine; DPSST No. 59128

Basic Regulatory Specialist Certification

    c) Timothy West; DPSST No. 37586

Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Certifications

4. Douglas Kitzmiller, DPSST No. 33965; Canby Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Terry Rowan, DPSST No. 22921; Umatilla County Sheriff's Office

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Matthew Walker, DPSST No. 50518; Cottage Grove Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Approval for Changes to the Basic Police Curriculum

Presented by Chris Enquist

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

Codifying Board Approval of the Revisions to the Basic Police Course Subject and Hour Breakdown

Presented by Jennifer Howald

9. Basic Police Curriculum, Upcoming Changes to Legal Course Alignment, Informational Only

Presented by Gerod Rayburn

10. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0005, 259-008-0290, 259-008-0300, 259-008-0310, 259-008-0320, 259-008-0330, 259-008-0340, and 259-008-0400

Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

Presented by Jennifer Howald

a. Review of Revisions to the Proposed Rule Changes

b. Review of Public Comment for Proposed Rule Changes to OAR 259-008-0310 (8), Professional Standards Cases Involving Employment Arbitration

11. Agency Updates

12. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – November 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

MEDIA CONTACT: Department of Agriculture, Andrea Cantu-Schomus, ea.cantu-schomus@oda.oregon.gov">andrea.cantu-schomus@oda.oregon.gov | 503.881.9049 

SALEM, ORE. — As drought conditions impact communities across much of Oregon, the State of Oregon reminds eligible public bodies, Tribes, nonprofit organizations and small businesses of the financial and technical resources available to support drought mitigation, water system improvements and economic recovery.

State and federal partners are offering multiple programs that help communities address declining water availability, improve local water infrastructure, and offset drought‑related economic losses. Some programs also have provisions applying to those affected by fire.

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants

These U.S. Department of Agriculture grants support rural communities experiencing significant declines in water quantity or quality.

Who may apply:

• Public bodies in rural areas
• Nonprofit organizations
• Federally recognized Tribes
• Applicants must document that a major decline in water quality or quantity has occurred within the last two years or is imminent.

Eligible areas:

• Rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or fewer
• Tribal lands in rural areas

How funds may be used:

• Water transmission line grants (up to $150,000): Waterline extensions, repair of breaks or leaks, and necessary maintenance to restore supply.
• Water source development grants (up to $1,000,000): Construction of new wells, reservoirs, transmission lines, treatment plants, or other water‑source infrastructure.

WaterSMART Drought Response Program

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART program supports projects that strengthen drought resilience through long‑term planning and infrastructure improvements.

Who may apply:

• States, Tribes, irrigation districts, and water districts
• State, regional, or local authorities with water or power delivery responsibilities
• Other qualified organizations with water or power delivery authority

How funds may be used:

• Development of drought contingency plans
• Water management decision‑support tools
• Infrastructure to improve water storage, distribution, and supply diversification
• Planning and implementation measures that help communities prepare for and respond to drought conditions

Well Abandonment, Repair, and Replacement Fund (WARRF)

The Oregon Water Resources Department’s Well Abandonment, Repair, and Replacement Fund (WARRF) provides financial assistance to low-to-moderate income homeowners or members of a federally recognized Tribe in Oregon experiencing well water supply issues. Grants assist with dry wells and wells damaged or destroyed by wildfire. A majority of program funding is dedicated to applications from state drought-declared counties or for wells impacted by wildfire.

Who may apply:

• Qualifying low-to-moderate income homeowners or members of a federally recognized Tribe
• Homeowners with a well connected to their home that can no longer provide enough water for essential in-home use including drinking, cooking and bathing

How funds may be used:

• Reimburse up to $40,000 for work by a licensed professional and materials associated with and necessary to abandon, repair, or replace eligible wells

How to apply:

• Application and more information on qualifying and important instructions can be found at owrd.info/warrf
• Funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis to qualified applicants

OWRD encourages reporting of all dry wells via the state’s Dry Well website at owrd.info/drywell.

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for eligible small businesses and private nonprofit organizations impacted by the drought in Oregon.

• For drought in the following counties beginning March 24 and continuing: Benton, Clackamas, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Polk, Wasco, Wheeler, and Yamhill.
• For drought in the following counties beginning April 1 and continuing: Baker, Clackamas, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Lake, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wasco, and Wheeler.

You can apply online and read more details on the MySBA Loan Portal. Application deadline for Economic Injury Disaster Loans is March 1, 2027.

Who Can Apply:

• Small businesses
• Private nonprofits & faith-based organizations
• Small agricultural cooperatives & nurseries
• Small aquaculture enterprises

Key Details – Economic Injury Disaster Loans (working capital for operational expenses):

• Up to $2 million in loan funding
• Loan terms of up to 30 years
• No interest/required payments during the first 12 months after disbursement
• Interest rates as low as:
  • 4% for small businesses and
  • 3.625% for private nonprofit organizations

Applicants may call the SBA Customer Service Center with questions regarding their application at (800) 659-2955 or email customerservice@sba.gov." style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(59, 100, 64); text-decoration-style: solid; text-underline-offset: 0.3em; transition: text-decoration-color 0.3s; text-decoration-thickness: 0.1em !important; text-decoration-color: inherit !important;">disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Resources for Agriculture Producers

Agriculture producers affected by drought are encouraged to connect with their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) for information on drought disaster relief assistance. To find a Service Center near you, use the USDA FSA locator at farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator.

• Prepare: The FSA encourages farmers and ranchers to create a Login.gov account. Full FSA access requires identity verification, which can take 7 to 10 business days for new customers. Login.gov is the secure, single sign-on account that gives you direct access to FSA services including disaster payments, farm program benefits, and loans quickly. Acting right away is important because worsening drought, wildfires, heat waves, and smoke have already caused big losses to crops and livestock.
• Setting up a Login.gov account takes about 10 minutes. Once registered, you can use many U.S. federal and state government websites, including FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). You need an email address and a phone number for extra security. If you want to also access services like Social Security or Veterans Affairs, you’ll need ID documents, such as a state ID or Social Security number.
• USDA offers a suite of programs to help producers recover losses from drought as well as protect their operations from the impacts of drought.  

These programs include:

• The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash leased land.  
  • FSA maintains a list of counties eligible for LFP and makes updates each Thursday.  
• The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) provides eligible producers with compensation for above-normal costs of hauling water and feed to livestock as well as transporting livestock to forage or other grazing acres.
• The Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) provides financial assistance to producers of non-insurable crops when low yields, loss of inventory, or prevented planting occur due to natural disasters including qualifying drought (includes native grass for grazing). Producers must have obtained NAP coverage for the crop year in which the loss occurs.
• The Tree Assistance Program (TAP) provides assistance to eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers for qualifying tree, shrub and vine losses due to natural disasters including excessive wind and qualifying drought.  
• The Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP)  provide landowners and forest stewards with financial assistance to restore damaged farmland and conservation structures or forests, including implementing emergency water conservation measures. This program may also help with damage to farmland due to natural disasters such as wildfire.
• Emergency and non-emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres may be authorized to provide relief to livestock producers in areas affected by a severe drought.
• USDA Farm Loans provide a variety of direct and guaranteed farm loans, including operating and direct emergency farm loans, to producers unable to secure commercial financing. Loans can help producers replace essential property, purchase inputs like livestock, equipment, feed and seed, cover family living expenses, or refinance farm-related debts and other needs.
  • Additionally, FSA has a variety of loan servicing options available for borrowers who are unable to make scheduled payments on their farm loan debt to FSA because of reasons beyond their control.

U.S. Drought Monitor

The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) is an online map showing the location, extent, and severity of drought across the United States. The USDM provides producers with the latest information about drought conditions where they live, enabling producers to best respond and react to a drought as it develops or lingers.

USDA uses the Drought Monitor to determine a producer’s eligibility for certain drought assistance programs, like LFP and Emergency Haying or Grazing on CRP acres.

The USDM incorporates varying data – rain, snow, temperature, streamflow, reservoir levels, soil moisture, and more – as well as first-hand information submitted from on-the-ground sources such as photos, descriptions and experiences.

The USDM categorizes drought conditions and intensities as follows:

Drought Intensity Categories

• D0: Abnormally Dry - used for areas showing dryness but not yet in drought, or for areas recovering from drought
• D1: Moderate Drought
• D2: Severe Drought
• D3: Extreme Drought
• D4: Exceptional Drought

Drought or Dryness Types

• S: Short-term, typically less than 6 months (agriculture, grasslands)
• L: Long-term, typically more than 6 months (hydrology, ecology)
• SL: Area contains both short- and long-term impacts

Landowners and producers can contribute their observations to the USDM process using the Condition Monitoring Observer Report (CMOR) system.

• The CMOR system is also mobile friendly, and a corresponding mobile field app is available for download.
• It’s recommended that photos are submitted each month or each season, to provide an ongoing comparison of wet, dry and normal conditions. Of course, more frequent submissions are also welcome.
• Reporting regularly can help people see what normal, wet and dry conditions look like in specific areas of the country.
• The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) authors may consult the CMOR map to help identify areas that need more attention.

Intertribal Agriculture Council

The Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC) maintains a Technical Assistance (TA) Network that provides direct on-the-ground assistance with USDA program access and supplemental resource identification through conducting outreach, assessing program applicability and eligibility, supporting interface with USDA and partners, advising on contract implementation, and growing tailored support networks. Visit indianag.org for more information and to identify your technical assistance specialist.

Additional Resources

• County and Individual Resources
• Tribal Resources
• National Drought Mitigation Center CMOR Fact Sheet

State options available for water right holders

Water right holders in counties with a Governor-declared drought may have certain short-term tools available. See Oregon Water Resources Department's Drought Emergency Tools document or contact your watermaster for more information. Examples include:

• Temporary Transfer: Apply to change the type of use, place of use, or the location of the diversion under an existing water right. A temporary drought transfer takes place under an expedited process and is in effect for the duration of the drought declaration or up to one year, whichever is shorter.
• Temporary Instream Lease: Convert all or a portion of a water right to an instream use for a period of one year or the term of the drought declaration, whichever is shorter.
• Temporary Emergency Water Use Permit: An approved emergency water use drought permit allows a water user to temporarily replace water not available under an existing water right.
• Temporary Substitution: Any person holding both a primary right originating from a surface water source and a supplemental right from a groundwater source may apply to temporarily use the supplemental right instead.
• Temporary Exchange of Water: The Water Resources Commission can approve a temporary exchange of existing rights, such as using stored water instead of a direct-flow surface-water right.
• Special Option Agreements: A water-right holder can enter into an agreement that authorizes the use of water at locations, from points of diversion, and for uses other than those described in the water right. Interested parties must first work through the scoping of the need and propose it to the watermaster before ultimately submitting it to the Department for analysis and review. Once approved by the Water Resources Commission, these agreements would be usable the moment a drought declaration under Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 536 is signed by the Governor and do not require approval each season.

Supporting Oregon Communities in Drought

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and Water Resources Department (OWRD) continue working closely with federal partners and local communities to coordinate resources, share information and support preparedness efforts.

“Drought impacts every region of Oregon differently, but the message is the same everywhere: help is available,” said Erin Zysett, OEM Public Information Officer. “We encourage communities, water managers, and small businesses to review these programs and apply as soon as they are able.”

For additional drought information, planning resources, and situation updates, visit:

• Oregon Department of Emergency Management: oregon.gov/oem
• Oregon Water Resources Department: oregon.gov/owrd

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Complex Incident Management Team (CIMT) 3 to the ODF Central Oregon District to manage the Bologna and Cottonwood Fire near Kimberly, Oregon.

The Bologna Fire originally began July 16 and reignited yesterday. The Cottonwood Fire began last week and has been managed by a Type 3 Central Oregon Fire Management Service Team. Both fires are currently under investigation. ODF CIMT 3 will in brief today at 7 p.m. and will transfer command of the two fires at 6 a.m. tomorrow morning.

Additionally, ODF has mobilized ODF CIMT 2 to the Rowe Creek Complex, which is also in ODF’s Central Oregon District and covers a large area of land between Prineville and Fossil, Oregon. A partial team has already arrived at the complex to support suppression efforts and the remainder of ODF CIMT 2 will arrive at the end of the week.

The Rowe Creek Complex has been an ongoing incident since July 15. As Southwest CIMT 2’s assignment ends, the fire is still in need of management support and ODF CIMT 2 is happy to fill that need. Transfer of command will be at 6 a.m. on Sunday, August 16.

“As a district, we’ve been spread incredibly thin this season, so we are happy to have the support of the complex incident management teams on these fires,” said Rob Pentzer, ODF Central Oregon District Forester.  

The fire information as of today is as follows:

• Rowe Creek Complex: 371,549 acres, 84% contained
• Bologna : 3,860 acres, 30% contained
• Cottonwood: 723 acres, 45% contained

Evacuations are in effect for these fires. Follow the local county sheriff’s office for more up-to-date evacuation information and sign up for emergency alerts at ORalert.gov.

“This has been a rough season so far and we’re not even halfway” said Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief. “It is so important right now that every Oregonian please do their part and prevent the next human-caused fire.”

As firefighters continue to work to suppress wildfires, reduce the strain on firefighters by preventing new human-caused fires. Follow local regulations currently in place: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx. Remain aware and informed.

A series of rulemaking advisory committee meetings has been scheduled to discuss updates to the smoke management rules.

The committee’s focus will be to discuss regulated areas. This will include multiple work sessions and public comment.

The first meeting took place July 15, view the meeting video. The second meeting took place July 29, view the meeting video. The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 12. More may be scheduled in the future. All meetings will be held virtually and are open to the public.

To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

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

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Jayc Priest, Jariq Rupert and Jerriyah Rupert.

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. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected 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.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This corrects a typo made for the hotline phone number sent in a July 30 press release. Please note the correct hotline number is 1-833-669-0554.

(Salem) - People anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-669-0554, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:

• Lost a home or property
• Evacuated and have ongoing needs
• Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
• Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
• Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire

The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.

This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.

People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.

The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.

Hotline information

• Call: 1-833-669-0554
• Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
• Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
• Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911

###

EDITOR’S NOTE: ODHS does not have a photo of Jerriyah Rupert. Pictures of Jayc Priest and Jayriq Rupert are attached.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Program, asks the public to help find Jayc Priest, age 12; Jayriq Rupert, age 9; and Jerriyah Rupert, age 4; who went missing from Prineville on Aug. 4. They are believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Jayc Priest, Jayriq Rupert, and Jerriyah Rupert and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see them.

They are suspected to be in Central Oregon.

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. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected 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.

Child Legal Name: Jayc Priest

Child Preferred Name:

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 12

Hair color: Brown

Prineville Police Department report #26000887

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2097536

Date Missing: Aug. 4, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Prineville, OR, Bend, OR, and Stillwater, OK

Child Legal Name: Jayriq Rupert

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 9

Hair color: Brown

Prineville Police Department report #26000887

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2097536

Date Missing: Aug. 4, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location: Prineville, OR, Bend, OR, and Stillwater, OK

Child Legal Name: Jerriyah Rupert

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 4

Hair color: Brown

Prineville Police Department report #26000887

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2097536

Date Missing: Aug. 4, 2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Prineville, OR, Bend, OR, and Stillwater, OK

For immediate release: Aug. 12, 2026

Media Contact: communications@employ.oregon.gov

Media Advisory

WorkSource Oregon invites job seekers to a manufacturing and warehouse job fair in Tigard

WHO: WorkSource Oregon – Tigard

WHAT: Manufacturing and Warehouse Job Fair

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, 10 a.m. to noon

WHERE: 11950 SW Garden Place, Suite 100, Tigard, OR 97223

Tigard, Ore.  —  WorkSource Oregon invites job seekers to attend a manufacturing and warehouse job fair at its Tigard location on Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon. More than nine local employers will share more information on these positions:

• Machine operators
• Assembly workers
• Production workers
• Ramp agents
• Glassblowers
• And more

The event is free to attend and open to the public. The media are also welcome to attend. Advance registration is recommended but not required. Job seekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes and come prepared to discuss their skills and experience with employers.

Job seekers can also visit QualityInfo.org to explore skills, wages, and career pathways for in-demand occupations and industries in Oregon.

“This is a great opportunity for people to learn about a variety of career options throughout the Portland Metro area and connect directly with employers,” said Jim Pfarrer, director of Workforce Operations with the Oregon Employment Department. “Job seekers should come ready to make a strong impression.”  

WorkSource Oregon staff will also be on site to offer resources for career exploration, as well as resume and interview guidance. 

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon partner with businesses and employers across the state to help connect them with qualified workers. Employers interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about WorkSource Oregon employer services can contact Services@oregon.gov">EmployerServices@oregon.gov.

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

Need help?

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 844-808-9675. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to Services@oregon.gov">EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

¿Necesita ayuda?  

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 844-808-9675. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a Services@oregon.gov">EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

###

August 13, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Wildfire smoke and evacuation threats can take a toll on mental health

Staying connected, taking breaks from the news and seeking support can help people cope during wildfire season

PORTLAND, Ore - Wildfires can affect more than the air we breathe. The uncertainty of an approaching fire, evacuation warnings, disrupted routines, loss of property or community, and prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can create stress, anxiety, grief and other emotional responses.

As wildfires and smoke continue to impact communities across Oregon, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding people that supporting mental health is an important part of wildfire preparedness and recovery.

“It's completely understandable to feel uneasy when wildfires are threatening our communities or when smoke is affecting the air we breathe,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., OHA health officer and state epidemiologist. “These conditions can take a real toll on our physical and mental health. Taking care of ourselves, staying connected with others and knowing where to turn for support can help us cope during these difficult times.”

Wildfire stress can affect anyone.

People may experience a range of emotions during and after a wildfire, including fear, sadness, anger, grief, helplessness, trouble sleeping or difficulty concentrating. Children and teens may also have strong emotional reactions, even when they do not directly experience a fire or evacuation.

People who have experienced previous disasters or wildfire losses may find that a new fire or smoke event brings back difficult memories.

OHA recommends several ways people can support themselves and others:

Check in with neighbors, friends and coworkers

A simple conversation can help people feel less alone. Reach out to people who may need additional support, including older adults, children, people with disabilities and those who may have difficulty evacuating or accessing resources.

Create space to express emotions

Give people permission to talk about what they are experiencing at their own pace and without judgment. This can be especially important for children and teens.

Encourage rest and recovery

Healing takes time. Maintaining routines when possible, getting enough rest and reconnecting with people and activities that bring comfort can help restore a sense of stability.

Take breaks from the news and social media

Staying informed is important during an emergency, but continuously monitoring wildfire coverage can increase stress and anxiety. Check trusted sources for updates, then give yourself permission to step away.

Prepare for evacuation

Having a plan can reduce some of the uncertainty that comes with a wildfire threat. Know your evacuation zone and routes, sign up for emergency alerts, keep important medications and documents accessible, and have a go-bag ready.

Protecting mental health during smoke events

People do not have to navigate the emotional effects of wildfire alone.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support.
• Lines for Life: 800-923-HELP (4357) provides emotional support and help connecting with resources. Oregon's wildfire recovery resources also direct people to Lines for Life for emotional support, with interpreters available.
• YouthLine: Young people can call 877-968-8491 or text teen2teen to 839863 for support.
• The AgriStress HelpLine is a free, 24/7 hotline for Oregon's agricultural and forestry communities, including farmers, ranchers, fishermen, foresters, and their families. Call or text: (833) 897-2474. Helpline operators are trained to understand the unique stressors and situations of agriculture, forestry, and fishing. All calls are answered within 30 seconds.

People affected by a wildfire who need help finding food, shelter, health care, emotional support or other services can also connect with 211 for local resources.

Support for children and teens

Parents and caregivers can help children feel safer by providing reassurance, maintaining routines when possible and giving children opportunities to ask questions and express their feelings.

During a wildfire or evacuation, children may need additional reassurance and opportunities to reconnect with familiar people and routines. Adults can model healthy coping behaviors by taking breaks, getting rest, talking with others and asking for help when needed.

Additional resources:

• Wildfires and smoke: Oregon Health Authority wildfire resources
• Crisis and trauma resources: OHA Resources for Crisis and Trauma Response
• Wildfire recovery assistance: Oregon Department of Human Services – Get Help After a Wildfire
• Oregon wildfire preparedness and evacuation information: Oregon Department of Emergency Management

###

August 13, 2026

Contact: Larry Bingham, ry.Bingham@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Larry.Bingham@oha.oregon.gov, 971-239-6499.

OHA statement: West Coast Health Alliance continues to endorse AAP-recommended child, adolescent immunization schedules

PORTLAND, Ore. — The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) bases its recommendations for vaccinations on guidelines from trusted professional medical and health organizations representing millions of healthcare providers, reflecting a broad consensus on the safety and benefits of the recommended immunizations.  The Executive Order (EO) issued by the White House regarding childhood vaccine schedule recommendations does not change the WCHA’s position on evidenced-based vaccine guidance.

Earlier this year, the WCHA endorsed the 2026 Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics. This evidence-based schedule reflects the most current science-based safety and benefits of immunizations that protect children and adolescents from infectious diseases and have saved millions of lives in the United States.

The WCHA also endorses the 2026 Maternal Immunization Schedule issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which recommends routine vaccination during pregnancy to protect pregnant people and infants from serious illness. These immunizations are the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection and complications for both parent and child.

The WCHA believes that immunization guidance from trusted healthcare organizations should continue to serve as the foundation for routinely recommended immunizations and guide conversations between healthcare providers and families. The WCHA also believes that coverage of vaccines, particularly through government programs, is important to allow choice. Our communities deserve vaccination recommendations based on the best available evidence, reviewed by experienced health and science professionals and access to those recommended vaccines.

If you have questions about childhood vaccines and best practice for your family, we encourage you to seek information from your child’s doctor. For more information about immunization guidance, please visit: 

• American Academy of Pediatrics
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 
• American Academy of Family Physicians 
• Vaccine Integrity Project

###

August 12, 2026

Contact: Larry Bingham, ry.Bingham@oha.oregon.gov" id="menur72h" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="mailto:larry.bingham@oha.oregon.gov">Larry.Bingham@oha.oregon.gov, 971-239-6499.

Oregon Health Authority releases statement on Oregon State Hospital change of leadership

Salem, Ore—Oregon Health Authority releases the following statement:

After careful consideration, Oregon Health Authority Interim Director Pakseresht has made a leadership change at the Oregon State Hospital (OSH) and will not move forward with Sean Murphy’s trial-service period. OHA leadership will resume recruitment for a permanent superintendent.

Effective immediately, Jim Diegel will resume serving as interim superintendent. Jim previously served in this role, has led in implementing positive changes and improvements to patient care at OSH, and will provide continuity and stability while OHA searches for the hospital’s next permanent superintendent while protecting the important progress underway at Oregon State Hospital.

Oregon State Hospital is a uniquely complex and important institution. It requires strong, trusted, accountable leadership, particularly given the needs of patients, families, employees, and the public. Because of this, superintendents are held to the highest standards possible. OHA’s focus is on ensuring that an institution as important as the Oregon State Hospital has the leadership it needs to fulfill its mission and serve patients safely and effectively.

###

Coordinated care organizations see financial improvements

Oregon Medicaid investments to preserve quality healthcare access pay off, but financial challenges remain

SALEM, Ore. – The financial stability of most local insurers that facilitate Medicaid benefits in Oregon – also known as coordinated care organizations, or CCOs – improved in 2025, according to new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) analysis. However, individual CCO operating margins varied last year and were collectively lower than historical averages.

The 16 CCOs that operated in Oregon last year earned a net operating profit of $67 million, resulting in an operating margin of 0.8% in 2025. The year before, the same CCOs nearly broke even with a smaller net profit of $129,000 and a profit margin of just 0.001%.

“While the overall financial picture for Oregon’s coordinated care organizations is varied, additional government financial support helped them make a small profit in 2025,” said OHA Chief Financial Officer Rochelle Layton. “OHA is committed to partnering with CCOs to ensure they can meet Medicaid members’ health needs far into the future.”

The vast majority of the approximately 1.4 million people in Oregon who are enrolled in Medicaid have their care managed by CCOs. Medicaid is a joint state-federal program that provides health coverage to adults with lower incomes, children, older adults, and people with disabilities. CCOs were established to lower the overall cost of healthcare through better outcomes and care.

Eleven CCOs operated at a net profit in 2025, while four had a net loss. That’s an improvement from 2024, when nine operated at a net profit and seven had a net loss.

Individual CCO financial performance in 2025 ranged from a high profit margin of 5.39% to a low negative margin of -3.42%. PacificSource Community Solutions did not renew their Medicaid contract in Lane County in 2025 due to financial losses. Another CCO, Trillium Community Health Plan, remains in Lane County and migrated former PacificSource members into their network. PacificSource continues to serve Medicaid members in other areas of the state.

Additional funding buoys CCOs

CCOs collectively spent 9.0% more in 2025 to cover services for their Medicaid members in comparison to the year before. As has long been the case, CCOs’ largest expense category in 2025 was hospital services, which made up 31.8% of all spending on member services. Increased use of mental health and substance use disorder services – which accounted for 22.5% of all member service costs in 2025 – also drove CCO spending.

CCOs fared better in 2025 because OHA was able to provide $149 million in additional funding, $30 million of which came from state general funds while the remaining $119 million came from federal funds. The Oregon Legislature approved the additional state funding in June 2025 as part of the regular budget process after it became clear continued increases in utilization were further straining CCO budgets. In total, this additional funding accounted for about 1.73% of all CCOs’ overall operating revenue last year.

OHA compensates CCOs in two ways: a flat monthly rate for each person whose benefits a CCO coordinates and an annual incentive bonus for improving care quality for CCO members. The monthly payments, also known as capitation rates, are updated annually.

OHA recognized CCOs were facing financial challenges while it was developing 2026 capitation rates last year. To protect quality healthcare access for the state’s Medicaid members, OHA increased 2026 CCO capitation rates by about 10%.   

Looking to the future

To develop 2027 capitation rates, OHA is factoring in CCOs’ 2025 financial performance as well as their available financial and claims data for 2026. OHA will finalize 2027 capitation rates by the end of this year.

Preliminary data collected so far this year suggests most CCOs have experienced further financial improvements because of the higher rates they are receiving. Through March 31, 2026, CCOs collectively spent 88.4% of their total revenue on member services and 9.9% on administrative services, leaving a 1.7% profit margin.

Historically, Oregon CCOs have collectively had profit margins as high as 7.5% in 2014, when the Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid eligibility criteria, and as low as -0.3% in 2017, when the eligibility of some Medicaid members was redetermined after OHA completed a comprehensive review of Oregon Medicaid enrollment.

###

Measles is very contagious and you could give it to someone in a waiting room. If you believe you've been exposed, it's important to tell your doctor or clinic that you have symptoms of measles before you go. They will give you instructions for what to do so that you don't spread measles.

August 11, 2026

Contact: Larry Bingham, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center is latest measles exposure location

August 10, 2026

Contact:

• Kim Lippert, Oregon Health Authority, 971-323-3831, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov
• Karin Holton, Oregon Family Support Network, (503) 363-8068, inh@ofsn.net">karinh@ofsn.net

Crisis to Care Guide to help families navigate emergency department visits

SALEM, Ore.–When a child or teen experiences a behavioral health crisis, parents are often forced to make life-changing decisions with little information and support. A behavioral health crisis is a critical, acute situation in which a person’s thoughts, emotions, or behaviors become so overwhelming that they can no longer safely cope, and there may be risk of harm to themselves or others. Questions like: What happens next? What should I ask? Will my child be safe? These can feel overwhelming during an emergency.

To help answer those questions, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Family Support Network (OFSN) have launched the Crisis to Care Guide, a free online resource to help parents and caregivers understand what to expect before, during, and after a behavioral health-related emergency department visit.

The website was developed by parents, caregivers, and youth, with input from healthcare professionals, behavioral health providers and community partners throughout Oregon. Rather than simply explaining emergency room procedures, the guide is written through the voices of families who have experienced these situations, offering practical advice, encouragement, and reassurance alongside clinical information.

“No parent expects to face a behavioral health crisis with their child,” said Karin Holton, community engagement and development director for Oregon Family Support Network. “Families tell us they want to know what to expect, what questions to ask and how to best advocate for their child and family. The Crisis to Care Guide is an update to an earlier Oregon Health Authority guide with information, guidance, and resources and to remind families that they are not alone.”

The guide contains practical information on:

• Recognizing when a behavioral health emergency may require emergency care.
• Preparing for an emergency department visit.
• What families can expect during evaluation and treatment.
• Communicating with providers and advocating for their child.
• Questions to ask before leaving the hospital.
• Creating a safety plan for returning home and connecting with ongoing supports.
• Caring for yourself while caring for your child.
• Oregon resources, peer support, and community services.

“Families are critical partners in supporting a child’s behavioral health, especially during a crisis,” said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director, Oregon Health Authority. “The Crisis to Care Guide reflects Oregon’s commitment to giving families clear information, practical resources, and compassionate support when they need it most. We’re proud to partner with Oregon Family Support Network to make this updated guide available to families across the state.”

The guide is also intended to support emergency departments, behavioral health providers, schools, pediatricians, mobile crisis teams, and community organizations. Hospitals and providers are encouraged to share the resource with families before discharge and whenever behavioral health support is needed.

In addition to the online resource, print versions are available by emailing admins@ofsn.net.

###

About Reach Out Oregon

Reach Out Oregon, a program of Oregon Family Support Network, connects families with trusted information, peer support and resources to help them navigate parenting challenges, behavioral health concerns, and life’s unexpected moments. Through education, connection and lived experience, Reach Out Oregon helps ensure that no family has to navigate these challenges alone.

About OHA

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) works to improve the lifelong health and well-being of all people in Oregon by expanding access to quality health care, strengthening behavioral health services, advancing public health, and reducing health inequities.

August 7, 2026 

Media contact: Larry Bingham, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Clackamas medical office is latest measles exposure location

Health officials recommend those who were at the location during the specified dates and times – to consider vaccination if they’re not immune.

Salem, Ore. – For the first time this year, Powerball players have a chance to win a $1 billion jackpot. Wednesday’s drawing climbed to $1 billion, ranking as the eighth largest Powerball jackpot ever. 

Since the current jackpot run began on May 3, Oregon has seen 421,519 winners and more than $2,328,700 million in total Powerball game winnings. 

"Anytime the jackpot is this large, it adds extra excitement and attracts new players who don't typically purchase lottery games," said Oregon Lottery's Product Manager Tina Erickson.  

In 2024, Cheng “Charlie” Saephan shared a Powerball jackpot worth $1.3 billion with his wife and a friend. The prize was life changing for Saephan and by far the biggest prize ever won in Oregon. Previously, the largest Powerball prize won in Oregon was a $340 million jackpot in 2005. The biggest Powerball ever won in history was a $2.04 billion jackpot in 2022 by a player in California.

Oregon Lottery retailers that sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, a retail location that sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus. 

Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

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

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling games on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

Warrenton, Ore. — Fort Stevens State Park is hosting a living history and military vehicle event kicking off Friday, Aug. 14 at 10 a.m. This is a chance to look at WWII-era vehicles and learn about the park’s rich history.

The event will include dozens of historic military vehicles on display, interactive living history encampments and weapons from both the Civil War and WWII.

Event days:

• Friday, Aug. 14: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Aug. 15: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Sunday, Aug. 16: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event is hosted by Military Vehicle Collector Club of Oregon in partnership with Friends of Willie and Joe and Living History Group Northwest.

Admission is free. Parking in the day-use areas requires a $10 parking permit per vehicle or you can use an annual parking pass if you have one.

You can find additional details about the event on the event page.

About Fort Stevens State Park

Originally built in 1864 toward the end of the Civil War, Fort Stevens stayed active through the Spanish American war and World War II. All but one of the fort’s nine concrete batteries were constructed between 1897 and 1904. Shortly after World War II, the Army demolished many of the buildings and closed Fort Stevens.

Although the guns have been removed, their concrete emplacements remain. Today, Oregon State Parks preserves these remnants of early 20th-century U.S. military history.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is seeking public comment on Idaho Power’s proposed sale of its Oregon distribution system to Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC). The PUC will review the proposed sale to determine whether it serves customers’ interests, maintains reliable service, and meets all regulatory requirements.

Idaho Power and OTEC have filed an agreement with the PUC that would transfer Idaho Power’s Oregon service territory and distribution system to OTEC. If approved, Idaho Power’s 20,000 residential, irrigation, commercial, and industrial customers in Malheur, Harney, Baker, and Wallowa counties would become OTEC member-owners. OTEC currently serves Baker, Union, Grant, and Harney counties.

This proposed sale has a base purchase price of $154 million and is expected to close in early 2027. As part of the agreement, OTEC would purchase wholesale energy from Idaho Power through a multi-year power supply arrangement to serve customers in the affected Oregon counties.

Following the sale, Idaho Power would no longer serve Oregon electric customers directly but would continue to own and operate generation and transmission facilities in Oregon, including the Boardman to Hemingway (B2H) transmission line.

To support public participation, the PUC is offering several ways for community members to learn about the proposal and share their comments directly to Commissioners and the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) overseeing this case.

Ways to Comment

Members of the public may provide comments by attending an in-person or virtual meeting or by submitting comments through online form, email, phone, or mail.

Comment via Zoom or phone 
Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6 p.m. Mountain Time (5 p.m. Pacific Time) via Zoom or by phone.

This virtual meeting will include an overview of the proposed sale and an opportunity for participants to provide comments. To participate, members of the public must have joined the virtual meeting by 6:30 p.m. MT.

Join the meeting: https://bit.ly/UM2447-PCH

Comment in person – Ontario, Oregon
Monday, August 24, 2026, at 6 p.m. Mountain Time (5 p.m. Pacific Time)

Commissioners and an ALJ will hold an in-person only hearing in Ontario. To comment, please be at the hearing by 6:30 p.m. MT.

Location:  Ontario City Hall, Council Chambers, 444 SW 4^th Street, Ontario, OR 97914

Other ways to comment 
Comments may also be submitted through any of the following methods:

• Online Public Comment Form: https://bit.ly/UM2447-Comment-Form

• Email: licComments@puc.oregon.gov" target="_blank">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov

• Phone: 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (all relay calls accepted)

• Mail:
  Oregon Public Utility Commission
  Attn: AHD – UM 2447 
  PO Box 1088 
  Salem OR 97308-1088 

Stay informed 
Individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents throughout this case. To be added, email ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or call 503-378-6678. Please reference Docket No. UM 2447 in your request.

# # #

The Oregon State Marine Board recognized the tireless efforts of Hood River County Sheriff’s Office Marine Deputy Joel Carmody during its quarterly meeting held in Madras on July 30.

Deputy Joel Carmody received the Oregon State Marine Board’s “Service Excellence Award” for his consistent and exemplary efforts in his marine career, leading through the 2025 boating season.

“Deputy Carmody has consistently gone above and beyond in youth education, community outreach, and public engagement,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “His initiative, dedication, leadership, and passion for marine patrol have made a meaningful and lasting impact on recreational boating safety across our communities. His efforts exemplify the highest standards of service, professionalism, and commitment, and he truly deserves this recognition.”

Carmody served the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years, including 4 years as its Marine Deputy. He embraced his assignment to marine patrol and leapt from a beginner with boat operations to a mastery skill level within months. Carmody’s aptitude was recognized early, and he quickly advanced to a Marine Board instructor, serving in marine law enforcement training for Personal Watercraft (PWC) school and annual two-week Marine Law Enforcement Academy.

The Hood River area and robust windsports community on the Columbia River offer water recreators a mecca of opportunities, beyond boating. Carmody took the initiative to embed within the tourist-driven community to learn from locals, look for education gaps, and find ways to engage with local businesses, schools, clubs, and nonprofits. Never afraid to try new experiences, Deputy Carmody even participated in Wylde Wind and Water programs to learn SUP wing foiling and other windsports to understand the community’s perspectives better. He even volunteered with the Hood River Aquatics Center and Viento y Agua camp, which he continues in his newly retired status, helping kids learn skills to love, not fear -the water.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov for information about the Marine Board’s partnership with 30 county Sheriff’s Offices and the Oregon State Police for on-water marine patrol services.

-End-

View Boating Safety Video from Hood River Sheriff’s Office Marine Deputy Joel Carmody 

Salem, Ore – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian at 503-378-4367 or nelisen@slo.oregon.gov">wendy.cornelisen@slo.oregon.gov. Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in an alternate format 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov.    .

State Library Board Meeting

August 21, 2026

Virtual

Agenda

9:00 a.m.         Approval of the Minutes – May 15, 2026 Meeting                            Deitering

9:05 a.m.         Public Comment                                                        Deitering

9:10 a.m.         Report of the Board Chair and Members                    Deitering

9:40 a.m.         Report of the State Librarian                                                            Cornelisen

9:50 a.m.         Budget Report                                                                                  Cornelisen

10:00 a.m.       Customer Satisfaction Survey Report                         Nielsen,

           Bruton,

           M. Robinson

10:30 a.m.       Break                                                                                                  

10:45 a.m.       Quarterly Statistics                                                                           Cornelisen

10:55 a.m.       Quarterly Strategic Plan Report                                                       Cornelisen

11:10 a.m.       Strategic Planning 2027-2029                                                          Cornelisen      

11:40 a.m.       Board Nominating Committee                                                          Tate

11:50 a.m.       Board Logistics                                                                                 Deitering

12:00 p.m.       Adjournment                                                                                     Deitering

Any person may address the Board on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Board does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any question or issue raised to the State Librarian.

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

Clark County Council will hold Sept. 1 public hearing

Vancouver, Wash. – All comments are welcomed and encouraged regarding the draft Clark County 2025 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). The CAPER details the accomplishments that were completed between July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, through funding received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The full draft CAPER can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/cdbg-and-home-documents.

The Clark County Council will hold a public hearing at 10 am Sept. 1, 2026, to consider the report. Council hearings are held in a hybrid format with both virtual and in-person options for attending. More information is available at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/council-meeting-information.

Comments about the CAPER may be submitted by email to een.Ebrahime@clark.wa.gov">Nooreen.Ebrahim@clark.wa.gov or by calling 564.397.7834.

Comments will be accepted through 11:59 pm Monday, Aug. 31, 2026.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health is investigating a confirmed case of measles in a Clark County child who is unvaccinated.

The person who tested positive for measles was at local health care facility while they were contagious. People who were at the following location at the listed day and times may have been exposed:

• AFC Urgent Care Camas, 180 NE 192nd Ave., Vancouver: Friday, Aug. 7, 2026 from 2 to 6:30 pm

People who were at the clinic and have not been vaccinated against measles or have not had measles in the past are at risk for getting sick and should stay home and out of public places for 21 days. During that time, anyone who believes they have symptoms of measles should call their health care provider before visiting the medical office to make a plan that avoids exposing others.

People who have been vaccinated are well protected. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. People who have questions about the vaccine or are unsure if they’ve been vaccinated should talk to their health care provider. Vaccination records are also available through the state’s MyIR Mobile system.

So far this year, Clark County has had 17 cases of measles. Fifteen of the 17 people were unvaccinated; the vaccination status was unknown for two of the people.

For more information about the measles investigation, visit the Clark County Public Health measles investigation webpage.

About measles

Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious illness caused by a virus. It spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. A person with measles can spread the virus before they show symptoms. The virus also can linger in the air after someone who is infectious has left.

Measles poses the highest risk to people who have not been vaccinated, including infants younger than 12 months. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine provides the best protection against measles. One dose of the vaccine is about 93 percent effective at preventing measles. Two doses are about 97 percent effective.

After someone is exposed to measles, they begin to get sick in about one to three weeks. Measles symptoms begin with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a rash that usually begins at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. People are contagious with measles up to four days before the rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears.

Measles can be serious in all age groups. However, children younger than 5 years old, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant people are at higher risk for complications from measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. Measles may cause pregnant people to give birth prematurely or have a low-birth-weight baby. For every 1,000 children with measles, one or two will die from the disease.

To learn more about measles, visit the Washington State Department of Health website.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will continue their focus on housing and mobility during the August meeting. Regular business will include the annual election of chair and vice chair and discussion about a proposed letter of support.

The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Hearing 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.

Vancouver, Wash.—Due to the extreme fire danger, recreational fires will be prohibited throughout unincorporated Clark County effective immediately.

This recreational fire restriction is in addition to the general outdoor burning prohibition that was implemented on July 15. This ban joins with the ban imposed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources which include campfires. According to Fire Marshal Donna Goddard, this is a necessary preventive measure to help avoid the risk of larger grass or brush fires as a result of escaped campfires. Due to current conditions along with the extended forecast, the ban goes into effect immediately and will remain in effect until further notice.

Creating a defensible space around a home helps prevent wildfires from spreading to a residence, or vice versa. Goddard recommends the following measures in both rural and urban areas:

• Remove fuel
  • Within 3–5 feet of foundations, outbuildings, garages and sheds
  • Within 10 feet of a house
  • Under decks and porches
  • From gutters, eaves, porches and decks
• Cut the lawn if it is brown. Dispose of debris and cuttings.
• Prune trees so lowest branches are 6–10 feet above the ground.
• Landscape with native and flame-resistant plants.

Self-contained camp stoves, which are not banned, are a safe and easy alternative for outdoor cooking.

For more information, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 564.397.2186.

ASTORIA, OR – The Clatsop County Department of Public Health invites the community to gather for a candlelight vigil on Monday, August 31, 2026, in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day.

The event will take place from 6-8:30 p.m. at Barbey Maritime Center, 2042 Marine Dr, Astoria. 

This evening of remembrance is dedicated to honoring the lives lost to overdose, offering support to grieving families and friends, and raising awareness about overdose prevention.

Attendees are invited to bring a photo, poem, or short personal story to share. Those who would like to speak during the event can sign up in advance at clatsop.co/OverdoseAwarenessSpeaker.

“Overdose is a public health issue,” said Darby McNaughton with Clatsop County Public Health. “We want to remind people that overdose can happen to anyone. Our goal is to provide stigma-free education, resources, and empathy to anyone with substance use disorder to help them better their lives.”

Free naloxone, tacos from Monte Alban, community resources and giveaway items will also be available.

For more information, visit www.clatsopcounty.gov/publichealth or call 503-325-8500.

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New podcast episode highlights partnership between law enforcement and behavioral health and the power of planting the seed for recovery

ASTORIA, OR — A new episode of PODClatsop takes listeners inside the Clatsop County Deflection Program, where law enforcement and behavioral health professionals are working together to give people struggling with substance use another path forward.

Clatsop County Deflection Program Coordinator Christina Schulz and Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare’s Isaiah O’Neill join Clatsop County Public Affairs Officer Jenn Benoit to explain what happens when someone is offered Deflection, how participants are connected with treatment and why a person who initially turns away from help may return when they are ready.

During the episode, listeners hear an emotional message from a former participant thanking O’Neill for helping him through his recovery. The participant initially entered the Deflection Program but did not complete it. After another law enforcement contact, he was offered Deflection again.

This time, he was ready.

O’Neill said the earlier relationship mattered. The participant already knew where to go for help and had established trust with the program. He went on to achieve long-term sobriety, reunite with his family and begin considering becoming a recovery coach.

Schulz explains that the Clatsop County Deflection Program offers two pathways to services. One provides an alternative for qualifying people contacted by law enforcement while in possession of a controlled substance. The second allows law enforcement, Parole and Probation and Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare to refer people known to be struggling with substance use even when they are not facing a possession charge.

Once connected with Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare, participants receive an individualized assessment and may be connected with outpatient treatment, withdrawal management, residential treatment, recovery supports and other services based on their needs.

The goal is progress and sustained engagement, not expecting recovery to happen overnight.

“People don’t get sober all at once,” O’Neill said during the episode. “It’s a process.”

As of the recording of the episode, 138 people had been offered Deflection in Clatsop County. Of those, 83 entered the program, 36 had graduated and 18 were actively participating.

One of the strengths of Clatsop County’s program is the broad support it receives from law enforcement, behavioral health providers, the District Attorney’s Office and other community partners.

The episode highlights how those partnerships can translate into tangible changes in people’s lives from reducing substance use to finding employment, reconnecting with family and moving from homelessness into stable housing.

“Whether it’s small strides or big strides, we’re giving them the tools,” Schulz said.

Listen to the latest episode of PODClatsop to hear the full conversation and learn more about how the Clatsop County Deflection Program works.

PODClatsop explores the people, places and programs that make Clatsop County unique.

About the Clatsop County Deflection Program

The Clatsop County Deflection Program connects people struggling with substance use with treatment and support through a coordinated partnership involving law enforcement, Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare, the District Attorney’s Office, Parole and Probation and other community partners. The program emphasizes accountability, engagement and creating opportunities for recovery.

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Kujala joined Gov. Tina Kotek and regional leaders Wednesday in Tillamook to discuss economic development opportunities, challenges facing the North Coast economy and opportunities for stronger partnership with the State of Oregon.

Clatsop County is facing significant economic pressures, including anticipated losses in timber revenue associated with the state’s Habitat Conservation Plan and uncertainty surrounding federal funding for the SAFE fisheries program. Against that backdrop, economic growth remains a top County priority.

“We have sites with the potential to bring family-wage jobs, assessed-value growth and tax revenue to our communities,” Kujala said. “What we need is continued cooperation with the state to address permitting, infrastructure and funding challenges so those opportunities can become reality.”

At the meeting, Kujala identified the North Coast Business Park, Tongue Point, and the Port of Astoria Airport Industrial Park as three of the County’s greatest opportunities for economic growth.

Despite their potential to attract investment, create jobs and expand the local tax base, each of these sites faces barriers that can delay or prevent development, including complex permitting requirements, inadequate infrastructure, and the significant costs of preparing industrial land for investment.

At the North Coast Business Park, continued development depends on coordinated permitting and sufficient wastewater capacity. At Tongue Point and Port properties, additional marine, industrial and federal investment will require infrastructure improvements and sustained coordination among local, state, and federal partners. Addressing these barriers will require state agencies to view economic growth as a shared priority and work alongside local communities to move viable projects from opportunity to development.

“If all agencies are looking through the lens of economic growth, rather than just a narrow focus on a conflicting tapestry of rules and regulations that stifle development, there can be progress,” said Kujala. “Economics are often the last consideration, and it should be an over-arching concern, if we are truly interested in Oregon being competitive with other states across the nation.”

As next steps, Clatsop County will continue providing the Governor’s Office with information about the North Coast Business Park, Tongue Point and Port of Astoria properties. The County requested a back-up plan for funding the SAFE program should the BPA continue to signal that they are no longer funding the program. Chair Kujala also requested a letter supporting expanded Coast Guard investment in Clatsop County and assistance with Warrenton wastewater infrastructure.

“Clatsop County has tremendous economic opportunities, but realizing them requires strong partnerships,” Kujala said. “We appreciate the Governor bringing North Coast leaders together and recognizing that the state has an important role in helping communities move projects forward and create good jobs for the people who live here.”

The meeting was part of the Governor’s outreach related to the Oregon Prosperity Plan and included the chairs of Clatsop, Tillamook and Columbia counties, the general manager of the Port of Tillamook, former Oregon Sen. Betsy Johnson, Rep. Cyrus Javadi, Gov. Kotek and members of her staff.

###

Photo Gov. Tina Kotek and Board Chair Mark Kujala, Wednesday, August 5, 2026 in Tillamook, OR. Provided by Clatsop County

ST. HELENS, Ore., August 12, 2026 — Columbia County Emergency Management, in partnership with local fire agencies and community partners, is updating the Columbia County Community Wildfire Protection Plan and is encouraging residents to participate in community meetings and an online survey.

The Community Wildfire Protection Plan identifies wildfire risks and helps guide efforts to reduce those risks, improve preparedness, and protect people, property, infrastructure, and natural resources.

Residents know their communities best. Public input is a key part of the planning process, and residents are encouraged to share their knowledge and experiences to help guide future mitigation efforts. The update will bring together local agencies, community organizations, and residents to identify wildfire concerns and opportunities to improve preparedness.

Community meetings are planned in the following areas:

• Rainier - September 3, 6:00 pm, 100 W A St, Rainier
• Clatskanie- September 8, 7:00 pm,555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie
• Mist-Birkenfeld - September 12, 10:00 am, 12525 Hwy 202, Mist
• St. Helens -September 17, 6:00 pm, 1054 Oregon St, St Helens 52751 Columbia River Hwy
• Vernonia -September 19, 5:00 pm, 627 Adams Ave, Vernonia
• Scappoose -September 22, 6:00 pm, 52751 Columbia River Hwy, Scappoose
   

Residents who cannot attend a meeting can share their input through an online survey, which will remain open through October 31, 2026. For a printed survey, you may call Columbia County Public Health at 503-397-7247 or email health@columbiacountyor.gov with your request.

Survey information, meeting updates, and additional CWPP updates will be shared through the Columbia County Emergency Management Program's webpage.

Following community outreach, the planning team will evaluate wildfire hazards, review existing mitigation efforts, and develop recommendations to reduce wildfire risk. A draft plan will be released for public review before adoption.

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#columbiacountyor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 7, 2026

MEETING NOTICE

DOUGLAS COUNTY VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting of the Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 3:00 pm in Room 216 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon.  

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting. To view the live stream or post meeting recording, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@douglascountyoregongov.

For additional information about this meeting, please contact the Douglas County Veteran Service Office by calling (541) 440-4219 or by email at ans@douglascountyor.gov">veterans@douglascountyor.gov. The meeting agenda can be found at https://douglascountyor.gov/.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Chief Public Information Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office |

(541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office  a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, August 17, 6:00 pm, at Cascade Park Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. You can view the agenda and meeting materials at https://www.fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/

SALEM, OR — On Monday, Marion County filed a motion outlining the many ways federal defendants violated the law in adopting their new policy of annual deep drawdowns of Detroit Lake. This new policy will devastate canyon communities, endanger drinking water for over 230,000 people living downstream, and even jeopardize the very fish it claims to be trying to save.

In 2023, a court order forced similar deep drawdowns at nearby Green Peter Lake due to a lawsuit from an environmental group. This killed thousands of salmon and caused massive increases in turbidity that harmed downstream water systems.

Photo Credit: Brian Stone Photography LLC; explanatory text added by public commenter who submitted it during SEIS process.

The new policy of annual deep drawdowns would drain the lake below its minimum conservation pool—to its lowest historic level in the first year and to even deeper untested low levels each fall in following years. Dropping water levels in this manner disturbs fine sediment on the lake bottom and causes turbidity (dirty water), which harms all fish and municipal water systems downstream. There would also be water shortages if there is low rain that prevents refill, hurting cities and agriculture. The damage that was caused by the deep drawdown of Green Peter shows a deep drawdown of Detroit could also kill much of a lake’s fish population. All this would harm the tourism-based economy of the local community.

“Risking the drinking water of our communities while harming thousands of fish is patently absurd” said Commissioner Colm Willis, Chair. “Since the Army Corps refused to listen to reasonable requests from the county, cities, and schools, this lawsuit is the strongest means we have to protect our downstream communities as well as recreation at Detroit Lake”

The Army Corps’ own analysis found that the level of low rain that causes water shortages when combined with a deep drawdown occurs one out of every four years. This year will almost certainly be one of those years. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an “81% chance of a very strong El Niño during October-December of 2026 that would rank among the largest El Niño events in the historical record going back to 1950” and “a 97% chance” that El Niño conditions “will persist through early spring 2027.”

“Our residents depend on clean, reliable drinking water,” said Commissioner Kevin Cameron. “The Army Corps should not be gambling with the safety of drinking water in our community.”

“Water management must be grounded in data-backed science with meaningful protections in place for our communities,” said Commissioner Danielle Bethell. “The Army Corps is defying common sense and has not committed to any meaningful safeguards, which is why we will continue this fight to protect our residents from the Army Corps’ devastating policies.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Happy Valley Celebrates the Opening of Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park

The new park offers residents recreational opportunities with a view of Mt. Hood

Happy Valley, OR [August 11, 2026] – Today, the City of Happy Valley celebrated the grand opening of its newest recreational space, Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park located at 10478 SE Hornaday Avenue. The new park features an all-abilities playground, mobility charging station, tennis/pickleball court, picnic shelter, restrooms and walking trails. Additionally, there is a dog park for Happy Valley’s furriest residents.

To mark the occasion, the City of Happy Valley hosted a grand opening celebration. The family-friendly event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, brief remarks from Mayor Tom Ellis and fun activities for kids hosted by the city’s Parks & Recreation staff. Brain Freeze Shave Ice Bar provided shaved ice to attendees.

“Our residents have shown time and time again their love and appreciation for our parks and trails,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “Through their support of our Parks & Recreation Levy, we are able to continue building and maintaining these important community spaces that provide recreational opportunities for everyone.” 

The City of Happy Valley is committed to creating accessible places for all community members. Every city-managed park in Happy Valley features an all-abilities playground, and multiple trails within city boundaries are ADA accessible.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Happy Valley to Celebrate the Opening of Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park

The new park offers residents recreational opportunities with a view of Mt. Hood

Happy Valley, OR [August 10, 2026] – Today, the City of Happy Valley announces an upcoming celebration for the grand opening of its newest recreational space, Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park. The new park will feature an all-abilities playground, mobility charging station, tennis/pickleball court, picnic shelter, restrooms and walking trails. Additionally, there will be a dog park for Happy Valley’s furriest residents.

To mark the occasion, the City of Happy Valley will host a grand opening celebration on Tuesday, August 11 at 10:00 am. The family-friendly event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, brief remarks from Mayor Tom Ellis and fun activities for kids hosted by the city’s Parks & Recreation staff.

“Our residents have shown time and time again their love and appreciation for our parks and trails,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “Through their support of our Parks & Recreation Levy, we are able to continue building and maintaining these important community spaces that provide recreational opportunities for everyone.”  

Event Details:

·       What: Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park Grand Opening

·       When: Tuesday, August 11 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

·       Where: Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park – 10478 SE Hornaday Avenue, Happy Valley

·       Interview Opportunities: Elected officials from the City of Happy Valley

·       Photo Opportunities: Ribbon cutting ceremony, remarks, children’s activities

The City of Happy Valley is committed to creating accessible places for all community members. Every city-managed park in Happy Valley features an all-abilities playground, and multiple trails within city boundaries are ADA accessible.

###

WOODBURN, OR. — Woodburn City Manager Scott Derickson recently informed the City Council about the retention of Thomas Consulting Group, an independent technical advisory firm, to conduct a comprehensive review of the City's existing ordinances, policies, long-term planning framework, utility infrastructure, and environmental regulations. The review will help the City identify whether changes are needed to ensure it is prepared to evaluate any future data center applications, ensuring that public concerns can be addressed and infrastructure protected. 

The City of Woodburn is aware that data center developer, Verrus, has evaluated industrial sites in and around Woodburn.  The City is taking proactive steps to ensure that any future consideration of data center development, should an application be submitted, is guided by clear regulations, sound information, and the community's priorities.  The City does not have any current data center applications under review.

“This work is about making sure the City is prepared and has the right tools and technical expertise available so the City can adequately protect the public interest should a data application be forthcoming,” said Derickson.  “Our goal is to have a clear and transparent process that reflects community priorities and gives decision-makers the information they need to make thoughtful, informed decisions.”

As part of its work, Thomas Consulting Group will evaluate areas that could affect future data center development, including land use and zoning, development standards, utility coordination, environmental regulations, noise requirements, and other municipal regulations. The firm will also identify opportunities to strengthen the City's planning framework and develop practical tools that elected officials and staff can use to evaluate future proposals. Thomas Consulting Group is not advocating for or against a particular project. Its role is to provide the City with an independent, technical assessment and help develop a regulatory framework that supports consistent, transparent, and informed decision-making.

“Most cities encounter large-scale data center development for the first time when a proposal is already on the table and the clock is running. Woodburn's City leaders decided not to wait and are asking the right questions before anyone files an application. That choice puts the city in a much stronger position. Thomas Consulting Group helps local leaders see the full picture, the costs, the tradeoffs, and the questions worth asking, so decisions rest on clear information rather than pressure or a deadline,” said Michelle Thomas, Founder & CEO of Thomas Consulting Group.

“This review is not an endorsement of any particular data center project.  As of today, no applications for review have been submitted. Instead, it is an opportunity to take a step back, evaluate the City's current regulations and infrastructure, and determine whether additional safeguards, standards, or planning tools are appropriate.”, said Derickson.

The City has also issued the required 45-day notice to the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) regarding its intent to consider implementing a moratorium on data center-related development. The notice was issued on July 31, 2026.  Under state law, a city must issue this notice at least 45 days before it can conduct a public hearing and take action on a potential moratorium. This notice initiated the legally required waiting period while the City evaluates whether a temporary pause is appropriate to allow time for technical review and related policy discussions.

The City recognizes that residents have questions and concerns about how potential data center development could affect the community, including infrastructure, utilities, land use, noise, environmental resources, and long-term growth. The City's current work is intended to address those questions with reliable information and a clear regulatory framework before future applications are considered.

---end---

CASES:                                                                                                                         August 11, 2026

25CR17473

25CR23196

26CR03023

26CR03172

Portland, OR-Nickolas Alexander Edwards, 35-years-old, will go to prison after being convicted of stealing multiple cargo trailers from around the greater Portland area. Some of the thefts took place while he was wearing a pre-trial release ankle monitor from a previous arrest in Clark County.

Edwards pleaded guilty to the following charges:

Case 25CR17473 Count 1 Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

Case 25CR23196 Count 1 Aggravated Theft

Case 26CR03023 Count 1 Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

                                       Count 4 Felony Elude

                                       Count 7 Recklessly Endangering Another Person

                                        Count 8 Recklessly Endangering Another Person

Case 26CR03172 Count 1 Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

                                       Count 4 Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle

The defendant has also stipulated to pay a total of $30,874 in restitution to a variety of victims.

Sentencing was set over until August 13, 2026, but the defendant has agreed to a term of 84 months (7-years) in prison.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Cody Linderholm prosecuted the cases for the state. After the guilty plea he said:

“We don’t see a lot of sole trailer thieves in this county but its property crime and it's important to this community that this person is held accountable. Theft like this directly affects livability issues. Our office takes that seriously. Getting a resolution like this with somebody who was so prolific lets the county know we are here. We are going to take property crime seriously. We know this type of crime impacts people and their livelihoods and we are not going to stand for that.”

THE FACTS:

The defendant is a trailer prolific cargo trailer thief. He has past cases that range from Multnomah County to Clackamas County, Marion County and north to Clark County, Washington.

In late 2025, investigators noticed a spike in reported trailer thefts in the Portland area. A Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office investigator began looking into the cases. The defendant was wearing a GPS monitor from an earlier arrest in Clark County. That made it relatively easy for the investigator to place him at more recent trailer thefts in Multnomah County.

                                                                  ###MCDA###

Cases:                                                                                                                                             August 10, 2026

23CR52057

25CR28260

Portland, OR-Jeffrey Thomas Boone, 44-years-old, was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for a violent series of robberies that terrorized multiple communities.

In case 25CR28260, Boone pleaded guilty to four counts of Robbery in the First Degree with a Firearm, Assault in the First Degree, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

In case 23CR28260 he pled guilty to: Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorneys Mackenzie Ludwig and Elena Langer prosecuted the case for the State. After the sentencing Ludwig said:

“This was a horrifically violent crime spree that threatened not only the safety and security of the victims but multiple communities. Mr. Boone’s conduct reflected a disregard for the law and perceived invincibility. The sentence imposed demonstrates that these types of crimes receive harshest punishments.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detective Johnathan Kizzar for his outstanding investigation and unwavering commitment to this case. The DA’s Office would also like to highlight the work of the MCDA Victim Assistance Program for their support of the victims in the case. We extend special thanks to the victims for their patience and cooperation with PPB and MCDA to diligently resolve this case.

THE FACTS:

On February 16, 2025, Jeffrey Thomas Boone went on a violent crime spree that lasted from 5:41pm until 6:56pm. He first robbed a Subway shop at 1740 NE 122^nd Ave. During the robbery he grabbed one worker by the neck and put a gun to the back of their neck, demanding they empty the cash register drawer.

Next, Boone went to a neighboring home where the homeowner had just returned with his children. Boone demanded the car keys from the man, who handed them over. Boone could not start the car, so he ran down the street to another home and entered through the unlocked door.

Boone demanded the keys from the man inside the second home, who worried for the safety of his wife and young child, so he handed over keys. Boone tried to find the right car for the keys but failed. Instead, Boone went down the street until he saw a GMC Yukon SUV driving in his direction.

Boone pointed his gun at the driver and forced him out from behind the wheel. Boone took off driving the stolen Yukon. Police were now on the scene and began to chase Boone. The pursuit quickly became too dangerous and so the officer broke from the chase, instead calling for cover.

At NE 36^th and NE Morris Street, Boone drove the Yukon into another car and then drove in front of that same car to stop it. He jumped out of the Yukon and demanded the woman driving to get out. Boone tried to steal that car, but the woman had the keys in her pocket and ran to a nearby house for help.

Boone continued drive to the 2500 block of NE Killingsworth Street where he approached a woman unloading groceries and again, demanded car keys. Boone hit her in the head with his gun and stole her car.

Boone drove her car into Vancouver, Washington where he is alleged to have burglarized another home before stealing a white pickup truck he used to flee to Marion County, Oregon.

Finally, an Oregon State Police Trooper spotted the pickup and pursued Boone. Boone eventually crashed the pickup, fled on foot, but was caught by law enforcement. Officers found Boone had a gun. Items from the various burglaries and robberies in Multnomah County were found in the pickup truck. The entire crime spree in Multnomah County happened over an hour and 20 minutes total.

                                                                             ###MCDA###

DALLAS (OR) – Chance William Grooms, 25, has been sentenced to serve 75 months (6 years, 3 months) in prison for Sex Abuse in the First Degree arising out of a 2025 incident involving a special needs adult under his care.

Grooms, of Stayton was sentenced after pleading guilty to the single charge before Polk County Circuit Judge Monte S. Campbell. Grooms was sentenced according to Oregon’s Measure 11 mandatory sentencing laws. Consequently, he will not be eligible for any form of early release or sentence reduction. He will also be required to serve a 45-month term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release and register as a sex offender. Grooms has no prior criminal history.

The case was investigated by the Monmouth and Stayton Police Departments. It was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Shannon Clausen of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

DALLAS (OR) – Jacob Allen Tunget, 28, was sentenced today to serve 100 months (8.3 years) in prison for Rape in the First Degree arising out of a 2024 incident which occurred behind the Safeway supermarket in Dallas.

Tunget, a Dallas area transient, was sentenced today after pleading no contest to the single charge before Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso. Tunget was sentenced according to Oregon’s Measure 11 mandatory sentencing laws. Consequently, he will not be eligible for any form of early release or sentence reduction. He will also be required to serve a 140 month term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release and register as a sex offender.

Tunget’s ultimate apprehension and prosecution was based on evidence developed through DNA samples obtained from the victim during the investigation. That DNA was linked to a positive match with a sample of the defendant’s DNA that was located in the FBI’s nationwide CODIS DNA bank of convicted felons.

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Honduran national unlawfully residing in the United States was sentenced to federal prison today for distribution of fentanyl resulting in the fatal overdose death of a Portland man and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. Gomez-Soto had more than two prior deportations and a prior drug dealing conviction.

Hugo Gomez-Soto, 51, was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release.

“This case is a stark reminder of the danger fentanyl poses to our community. The defendant was peddling death, and this time it resulted in the tragic loss of a young man’s life.” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family. Fentanyl is deadly and leaves devastation for families in its’ wake. As this case shows, my office will do everything we can to hold these merchants of death accountable for the destruction they cause to the community and pursue justice for the victims and their families.”

“While this sentence is truly justified, no amount of prison time and no amount of restitution will bring back a lost loved one,” said Acting HSI Seattle Special Agent in Charge April Miller.  “We want to thank our Portland Police Bureau partners for their work on this case.  Together, we can make an impact against those like Mr. Gomez-Soto, who harm our communities with fentanyl and other illegal narcotics.”

According to trial testimony, Gomez-Soto sold the victim illicit fentanyl, in the form of powder and counterfeit pills. The following day the victim, a 29-year-old resident of Southwest Portland, used some of the fentanyl and died moments later.

On January 25, 2024, a Portland Police Bureau (PPB) officer used the victim’s phone, pretending to be the victim, to buy drugs from Gomez-Soto. When Gomez-Soto arrived at the deal, he was arrested on state charges. At the time of the arrest, Gomez-Soto possessed both fentanyl powder and counterfeit pills containing fentanyl.

The police referred the case to the Multnomah District Attorney’s Office who charged Gomez-Soto with negligent homicide and multiple counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

On May 5, 2025, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office asked the U.S. Attorney’s Office to review the case for federal prosecution. On May 9, 2025, with the assistance of an Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and PPB, a federal criminal complaint was filed charging Gomez-Soto with the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On June 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Gomez-Soto with distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On April 13, 2026, after a six-day trial, a federal jury found Gomez-Soto guilty of distributing fentanyl that resulted in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was investigated by the PPB Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit with assistance from HSI and the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott M. Kerin and Nicole Bockelman.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— The Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component under the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, awarded over $3 Million in Fiscal Year 2025 to support Oregon’s state, local, and tribal governments in criminal justice activities to keep Oregon communities safe.

The awards, provided through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, represent the nation’s leading source of federal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories. Across the United States nearly $290 million was awarded. For more than 20 years, the JAG program has provided critical funding to support law enforcement’s ability to protect the communities they serve, supporting critical needs such as personnel, equipment and supplies, technology, training, information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings, and other operational priorities. JAG funding also supports a wide range of programs that strengthen crime prevention efforts and enhance the effectiveness of prosecutors, courts, corrections agencies, and services for crime victims and witnesses.

In addition to foundational uses of JAG funds, specific areas of emphasis were included to the JAG funding opportunities highlighting and encouraging state and local jurisdictions to join federal law enforcement in addressing the most pressing public safety challenges. For Fiscal Year 2025, these areas of emphasis included combatting violent crime, immigration enforcement, safe communities, and safe houses of worship.

In Oregon for 2025 many of our cities received grant assistance to support their work in public safety.

All recipients for both state and local JAG awards can be found here.

About the Office of Justice Programs

The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation's capacity to prevent and reduce crime; promote fair and impartial administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its program offices – the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime, and Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking or SMART Office – can be found at ojp.gov.

# # #

HILLSBORO, Ore- On August 7, 2026, a Washington County jury found Vincent Charles Roberts II guilty of burglary in the second degree, aggravated theft in the first degree, theft in the first degree, and criminal mischief in the first degree. Deputy District Attorney Christina Luedtke prosecuted this case before Judge Kathleen Proctor.
 

On December 24, 2023, the defendant broke into the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals in Hillsboro, Oregon. He then used a sledgehammer to smash museum display cases and stole nearly all of the gold from an exhibit.
 

Washington County Sheriff’s Office detectives launched an investigation. They learned that the defendant traveled to Salem and Woodburn in an attempt to sell the items to pawn shops. Shop owners recognized the stolen items from an earlier media release issued by the sheriff’s office and alerted law enforcement. Additionally, the suspect’s DNA was found at the scene. Mr. Roberts also had interactions with officers regarding unrelated incidents and was in possession of gold pieces belonging to the museum and materials needed to melt gold.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Washington County Sheriff's Office on this case. This office also wishes to acknowledge the shop owners for reporting the defendant.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 26, 2026.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On July 30, 2026, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Brandon Thompson found Isidro Martinez-Ramirez, age 51, guilty of five counts of sexual abuse in the first degree and sodomy in the first degree (Jessica’s Law). Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant sexually abused the minor victim in this case dozens of times over a three-year period when she was between seven and nine years old. In 2015, the victim reported this abuse to her mother and law enforcement. Her mother was initially uncooperative with the investigation, and police were unable to locate the defendant.
 

In December of 2021, the victim told a counselor about the abuse. The counselor notified the Forest Grove Police Department and the Oregon Department of Human Services. The victim also met with medical experts at CARES Northwest, where she provided additional details.
 

In 2021, the defendant was convicted of attempted sodomy in the first degree in a separate case after he provided a minor with methamphetamine and sexually assaulted the teen.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 27, 2026. The defendant will remain in custody pending sentencing.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On August 6, 2026, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Erwin sentenced Giovanni Aguilar-Becerra, age 22, to 95 months in prison. This sentencing follows a jury trial in which the defendant was convicted of sexual abuse in the first degree and sexual abuse in the second degree (five counts). Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant sexually abused three minors. Authorities first learned of his criminal behavior in November of 2023 when one of the victims disclosed the abuse to a school counselor. The victim told law enforcement that the defendant provided her with alcohol and marijuana and sexually assaulted her while she was intoxicated.
 

During the course of the investigation, authorities identified a second minor victim who reported similar behavior by the defendant, wherein he sexually assaulted her while she slept. The investigation revealed a third underage victim whom the defendant dated for a period of time before police learned of his ongoing sexual relationship. When confronted with these allegations, the defendant admitted to engaging in sexual activity with all three victims.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victims in this case for their bravery throughout the legal process. This office also acknowledges the work of the Forest Grove Police Department.
 

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

HILLSBORO, Ore- On August 4, 2026, Judge Erik Buchér sentenced William Mark Duyck, age 62, to 450 months in prison. This sentence follows a trial in which a jury found the defendant guilty of six counts of sexual abuse in the first degree. Senior Deputy District Attorney Andy Pulver prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant sexually abused more than one child multiple times over the course of several years. The abuse occurred in the city of Banks, Oregon. Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation and located an eyewitness who confirmed the abuse took place.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victims in this case for their bravery. This office also commends the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
 

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

OnPoint offers practical tips to help families manage higher prices and save on costs throughout the school year

PORTLAND, Ore. – Back-to-school season is putting new pressure on family budgets, with spending expected to reach record levels for the 2026-2027 school year.

According to a National Retail Federation (NRF) survey, families with K–12 students expect to spend an average of $863.86 this year, pushing total spending to a record $43.3 billion. That includes the cost of basic school supplies, clothing and shoes. College students and their families expect to spend an average of $1,437.79, with total spending projected to reach a record $103.5 billion. That includes basic school supplies, clothing, shoes, electronics and dorm furnishings.

“Back-to-school costs can add up quickly, especially when families are already balancing other household expenses,” said Peter Rector, financial wellness manager at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Starting with a clear budget and prioritizing what students need most can help families make thoughtful choices and avoid overspending.”

Six ways to save on back-to-school costs

OnPoint recommends the following strategies to help families and students manage back-to-school costs:

1. Start with a plan and a clear budget. Before you shop, review what your kids already have and compare it with their school supply lists and clothing needs. Reuse backpacks, binders, lunchboxes and other supplies that are still in good condition to avoid buying duplicates. Then decide how much you can comfortably spend and prioritize the items students need most. You may also be able to wait on seasonal purchases, such as winter coats and boots, until better sales arrive.

2. Shop smart by comparing prices and choosing store brands. Search for deals both online and in-store and compare prices across retailers before making purchases. Shopping early gives families more time to find sales, use coupons, and take advantage of loyalty programs. Store brands often offer the same quality as name brands at a lower price. Buying frequently used items in bulk can offer additional savings, especially for households with multiple children.

3. Buy the essentials first. According to NRF, nearly half of shoppers plan to buy only what students need to start the school year and replenish supplies later. A similar share is waiting for better deals, and another 23% are spreading out spending to manage budgets. Focus first on what students need to start the year, then purchase additional supplies, clothing or gear later. This can help families take advantage of sales and avoid putting too much pressure on a single paycheck.

4. Explore secondhand options and local resources. Thrift stores, consignment shops and community exchanges can offer gently used clothing, backpacks and sports gear at a fraction of retail prices. Local nonprofits may also host school supply drives or distribute free supplies to families. Check with organizations in your area to see what support is available.

5. Include kids in budgeting and shopping decisions. According to a Deloitte survey, 59% of shoppers often are influenced by their child to spend more. Back-to-school shopping offers a natural opportunity to teach kids about budgeting. Give older children a spending limit for supplies or clothes and encourage them to make thoughtful choices. Younger kids can help look for sales or compare options between two similar items. Including children in the process teaches financial responsibility and helps them understand the value of money.

6. Budget beyond the first day of school. Costs often continue throughout the year, from school lunches and club fees to field trips and sports gear. Planning for those expenses now can prevent financial surprises later. Consider setting up a small monthly savings fund for school-related needs to stay ahead of unexpected costs.

Back-to-school costs can put added pressure on family budgets, but planning ahead can help make them more manageable. OnPoint offers financial education resources and tools to help families prepare for seasonal expenses, build savings and make informed financial decisions throughout the year. Learn more at https://www.onpointcu.com/financial-education/.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 656,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 33 Oregon counties (Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Drivers should expect overnight lane closures near the George Washington Way and Columbia Point Drive intersection beginning Tuesday, August 11, as crews install new roadway signs associated with the South George Washington Way Intersection Improvements Project.

Work is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Tuesday and continue until approximately 5 a.m. Wednesday, August 12. Crews will install cantilever signs on Columbia Point Drive east of the WinCo driveway entrance and on George Washington Way north of Benham Street.

Crews will also install the Welcome to Richland sign on northbound George Washington Way, south of the Columbia Point Drive intersection, using the existing WSDOT sign bridge.

The work will require temporary lane closures on:

• Eastbound Columbia Point Drive
• Southbound George Washington Way
• Northbound George Washington Way south of the Columbia Point Drive intersection

At least one lane of traffic will remain open in each affected direction during the work.

If crews are unable to complete all sign installation Tuesday night, work will resume at 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 12.

This is expected to be the last major traffic disruption associated with the South George Washington Way Intersection Improvements Project.

Drivers should use caution through the work zone, watch for crews and equipment, and follow all posted traffic control.

More information about City construction projects can be found at richlandwa.gov/SouthGWay.

The City of Richland is advising drivers of an upcoming change to the Horn Rapids Road closure and detour associated with the North Horn Rapids Sewer Extension Project.

Beginning mid-morning Monday, August 10, the contractor will shift the current traffic routing on Horn Rapids Road. The mid-morning transition will allow Framatome employees arriving for the morning shift to use the existing route. Employees leaving later that day will need to use the new route via Kingsgate Way, which will also be the access route beginning Tuesday morning.

Once the traffic shift is in place:

• Horn Rapids Road between Kingsgate Way and the Framatome main entrance will reopen to traffic.
• Horn Rapids Road between the Framatome main entrance and Stevens Drive will close.
• Access to Framatome will be available only from the west via Kingsgate Way.
• Battelle Boulevard will serve as the designated detour route.

The new traffic configuration is expected to remain in place through mid-October while construction continues.

Drivers traveling through the area should follow posted detour signs, allow additional travel time, and use caution around construction crews and equipment.

The North Horn Rapids Sewer Extension Project will extend sanitary sewer infrastructure to support current and future development in the Horn Rapids area.

The City appreciates the public’s patience as this important infrastructure work continues.

More information can be found at richlandwa.gov/Projects.

PORTLAND, Ore. – It wasn't long ago that Portland Community College’s lifesaving CPR and emergency cardiovascular care program was on its last breaths and ready to close its doors. But thanks to dedicated staff, PCC’s American Heart Association (AHA) Training Center has come back to life by earning the American Heart Association’s 2025 All-Star Award. It is one of the first training centers nationwide to receive the honor, recognizing its success in delivering lifesaving education to healthcare professionals, students and community members.

The training center, housed within PCC’s Healthcare and Emergency Professions pathway, was part of the first group of centers to earn the new national recognition. The award honors American Heart Association training centers that consistently provide high-quality CPR and emergency cardiovascular care education, follow rigorous training standards and demonstrate exemplary program compliance.

“This award is a testament to the continued commitment to educational excellence and service demonstrated by our entire instructional team,” said Janeen Hull, dean of PCC’s Healthcare and Emergency Professions Pathway. “These courses ensure that learners are prepared to respond confidently in medical emergencies, directly strengthening overall community safety.”

PCC’s training center is a life-saver, literally and figuratively. It offers courses designed for healthcare providers, students entering medical professions and members of the public who want to develop emergency response skills. Faculty also offer customized training solutions for employers, healthcare facilities, schools, and other organizations. The center provides basic life support, advanced cardiovascular life support, pediatric advanced life support, advanced stroke life support and heartsaver courses that cover CPR, automated external defibrillator use and basic first aid.

"The classes provide foundational instruction, professional upskilling and continuing education for credit and non-credit students. They also help healthcare organizations maintain a qualified workforce by ensuring employees meet certification requirements," Hull said.

Nearly all healthcare providers must maintain basic life support certification, while many nurses, physicians, paramedics and other professionals are also required to hold advanced cardiovascular life support, pediatric advanced life support or advanced stroke life support credentials.

“The demand remains high because healthcare professionals must maintain current certifications as a condition of employment,” said Teresa Parrish, who supports PCC’s American Heart Association training center. “Without these certifications, they may be unable to perform their jobs or provide patient care.”

The American Heart Association evaluates training centers using several performance measures, including certification eCard activity, participant feedback, training quality and adherence to emergency cardiovascular care guidelines. Students and graduates are asked about their classroom experience, course length, required materials, instructor performance and whether they would recommend the course to others.

Many students enrolled in PCC’s healthcare programs must earn American Heart Association basic life support certification before participating in clinical education or entering the workforce. Providing that training directly through PCC makes it more accessible and allows students to complete academic and professional requirements through a trusted institution.

PCC’s recognition carries special meaning for Parrish because the college’s training center has operated for 24 years and has overcome obstacles.

In 2004, the center trained more than 18,000 students. Its enrollment later declined, and the program faced the possibility of closure shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. PCC ultimately maintained the center, while community and healthcare partners, including Life Flight Network, Legacy Health, Just in Time Training and Medical Outreach CPR, helped sustain its work during the pandemic.

The center initially resumed instruction through online coursework before returning to in-person operations. Participation has continued to grow as PCC has rebuilt its training offerings and strengthened connections with internal healthcare programs and external partners.

“I am most proud that we are making a comeback; that we did not give up,” Parrish said. “Being recognized after everything the program has been through shows the dedication of our instructors, partners and students.”

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 57,000 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.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Alecia DeRoo often arrives at Portland Community College’s Sylvania Campus still wearing scrubs from her home-health nursing shift. Then she opens her oboe case and joins a Wednesday-night Symphonic Band class whose musicians range from high school students to people in their 80s.

About 30 players gather each term. Some are building toward a future in music; others are returning to instruments they set aside years, or decades ago. For DeRoo, who has played with the ensemble for about seven years, rehearsal is where a demanding workday gives way to breath, focus and sound.

“This is how I keep on playing,” DeRoo said. “I’ve just been a musician so much of my life, playing flute in college, and then learning oboe."

She is a 2012 PCC nursing alum who is a registered nurse. She is also a former flute minor at Southern Oregon University, but switched to oboe a few years ago and has been taking Matt Farris’ band class for about seven years.

"Coming here feels natural, and it’s stress-relieving,” DeRoo added.

The age span reflects PCC itself. In 2024–25, 53% of the college’s credit students were younger than 25, while 59% of its noncredit students were 30 to 64, and 16% of PCC’s non-credit students were 65 or older.

PCC's Music Program has five performance groups (Voices of Soul Choir, Chamber Choir, Chorus, Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band) along with private lessons and performance sessions. The Sylvania Campus offers two full years of university-transfer-level music coursework as well as general-interest classes, and PCC reports that students have continued at institutions including Portland State, the University of Oregon, Berklee, Eastman and the New England Conservatory.

In Farris’s rehearsal room, those separate demographics become one band. For some students, it is a weekly reset after a long shift at work, a return to an instrument set aside for decades, a link to a life in music or a new community built one rehearsal at a time.

The students’ experiences echo broader research on group music. Studies have found that six months participating in a community choir reduced loneliness and increased interest in life. In a separate randomized study of undergraduates, six weeks of group music therapy reduced self-reported stress and anxiety.

Music's Healing Qualities

The ensemble, based at the PCC Sylvania Campus, is led by an Oregon music educator whose own path began behind a drum set after he fell for the soulful R&B sound of Earth, Wind & Fire as a middle schooler in 1980s Montana. Today, Farris directs a group that brings together lower-division college students and PCC Community Education Program musicians, from high school students to retirees. The band is open to brass, woodwind and percussion instrumentalists, and rehearses every Wednesday at the Sylvania Campus.

“We sight-read, then vote on what we will perform,” Farris said. “From high schoolers to 80-year-olds, we tackle complex, fast-paced and highly dynamic music with a punchy and impactful brass section.”

That mix of challenge and welcome is what keeps students coming back.

For Emily Huber, the band became part of her recovery. After a 25-year break from clarinet, her best friend, also a musician, enrolled her in the class four years ago, partly because Huber was recovering from long COVID.

“The breathing exercise of playing made my physical therapist really excited,” Huber said. “I love playing at this level. Learning from Matt is not what I studied before in junior high, high school or even college.”

Huber said the class is both structured and collaborative. Students practice sight-reading, then help choose the music.

Students Come From International, Hollywood Backgrounds

Farris said that the student voice is central to the class.

“We play marches to more cinematic pieces, both vintage and new scores,” he said. “Students have a say in what we play and choose the group’s challenge piece that we take on to push ourselves.”

Cornet player Gregg McMickle is one of the ensemble’s veterans, with more than 12 years in the band. He brings loyalty and a Hollywood connection to the rehearsal room. A lifelong musician and former film prop master, McMickle worked on “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” the 1995 movie filmed in Portland that celebrated music teachers and the lasting influence they can have on students.

In Farris’ class, that influence is quieter but no less steady. The band currently averages about 30 students per term, with some non-credit students returning year after year. Their consistency gives the ensemble continuity and gives new students a place to land.

“No matter how long it’s been since they have played, we try to meet students where they are,” Farris said. “It’s a great community.”

For Marcos Ferraz, that community is part of a new chapter. Ferraz, who lives in Hillsboro and is originally from Brazil, built a career as a professional bass player. An early member of Silent, a melodic rock band from Rio de Janeiro, he later spent decades as a working musician.

“I was lucky to have one big hit in a band and saved my money,” Ferraz said. “I did not live a rock star’s lifestyle. It allowed me a life as a working musician.”

Ferraz eventually came to Portland for a custom-made cornet. Then he and his wife fell for the city.

“My wife and I loved this area so much we retired here,” said Ferraz, who has played cornet with the PCC Symphonic Band for three terms.

Fun Atmosphere Brings Them Back

Outside PCC, Farris directs the jazz and concert bands at Molalla High School and serves as a sergeant and percussion section leader with the Oregon Army National Guard’s 234th Army Band. His music education work also includes organizing high school honor bands and serving in leadership roles with the Oregon Music Education Association.

But on Wednesday evenings, the focus is the sound in the room: students counting measures, players listening across sections, a brass line finding its punch and woodwinds shaping the melody.

“PCC is a great atmosphere for learning, whether you are taking classes for credit or just for fun,” Farris said.

The friendships often continue after rehearsal, with band members gathering for dinner at nearby Sho Japanese Restaurant, which has welcomed the musicians and even stayed open late for them.

For Symphonic Band participants, the class is a place to breathe, learn, return and belong. It is a musical home.

For more information, visit pcc.edu/music, or to check out the Symphonic Band class's registration page.

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 57,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio marks a major milestone with the premiere of its 100th episode,"RiR 100," at 1 p.m. Aug. 17. The special program celebrates more than a decade of sound-based storytelling by revisiting memorable moments, themes and productions from the series' first 100 episodes.

Since its debut in 2013, Re-Imagined Radio has explored the art of storytelling through sound, presenting dramas, documentaries, soundscapes, comedies, adaptations and original productions that have transported listeners across time, place and imagination. Over 100 episodes, the program has reached audiences locally, nationally and internationally through broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and online archives.

"One hundred times before, we've packaged dialogue, sound effects and music and sent them across the airwaves to create believable worlds on the wide screen of the listener's imagination," said John F. Barber, producer and host of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. "This episode is our opportunity to reflect on that journey and celebrate the people, stories and creative collaborations that made it possible."

The number 100 carries special significance across cultures. Often associated with completeness, achievement, abundance and success, it represents both a culmination and a new beginning. For Re-Imagined Radio, the milestone symbolizes years of creative experimentation, persistence and growth.

Episodes were produced intermittently during the program's early years, from 2013 through 2020. As production evolved into a regular monthly schedule, the collection steadily expanded until reaching the century mark in 2026.

Rather than focusing on a single story, "RiR 100" serves as a retrospective celebration, revisiting highlights from the program's extensive archive. Drawing from approximately 90 recorded productions, the episode offers listeners an opportunity to rediscover favorite moments while introducing newer audiences to the breadth and variety of Re-Imagined Radio's work.

"We're not bragging," Barber said. "But we are proud of this achievement. Reaching 100 episodes required creativity, dedication and the support of listeners, collaborators and broadcast partners. We wanted this program to honor that shared accomplishment."

The centennial episode also marks a transition point for the series. Following August's broadcast, Re-Imagined Radio plans to step away from its monthly production schedule and explore new approaches to audio storytelling. Future programming may include a more experimental series, tentatively titled RiR Workshop, along with guest-produced episodes, original works and other creative collaborations.

"Who knows what serendipity might send our way?" Barber said. "More partner stations, more guest artists, more original productions. We're excited to discover what comes next."

Listeners are invited to join the celebration Aug. 17 and experience a journey through more than a decade of innovative sound-based storytelling.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Created in 2013 by John F. Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary, adaptation and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences.

Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, Washington; KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, Oregon; KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska; KAAD-FM in Sonora, California; and Galloway's Star 24 in Galloway, New Jersey. In addition, each station streams its programming globally, helping Re-Imagined Radio reach listeners in more than 60 countries. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver and is accessible via I-5, I-205 and C-TRAN bus service.

# # #

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for a Board Retreat on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. 

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

The public and guests may join in person or virtually via the Zoom App.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88383770625?pwd=usSip--Qtlj0ard2uqJ1xSlPi9QhXg.qVCWj-2bW69czWbZ
Passcode:087920

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

Webinar ID: 883 8377 0625
Passcode: 087920

The full Board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page. The meeting agenda may be updated as needed and additional Board meeting documents may be added as they become available. 

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

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet for their Summer Retreat and Planning session at 9:00 a.m. on August 12, 2026, in the MESD Community Room located at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland OR 97220. 

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive Session and Board Retreat on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at the Parkrose Middle School located at 11800 NE Shaver St, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 3:00pm

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: time with administrators, student board representative interviews, board operations, 26-29 CBA with ECBC, policy updates, resignations, collective focus, advocating for change, legislative advocacy, liaison roles, next steps and board reminders.  

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

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

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

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

What: Washington State University Tri-Cities celebrates the start of the 2026-27 academic year with annual Wave the Flag event. 

When: This event will take place from 8:30–10:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 24. 

Why: This is a great opportunity for photo and video storytelling, with the option of interviewing event volunteers. The flag waving event is the kick-off to WSU Tri-Cities’ Week of Welcome. Showing our Cougar Pride makes new and returning students feel welcomed as they arrive on campus for the first day of classes. 

Who: WSU Tri-Cities faculty, staff, and community members will be volunteering their time and showing their Coug spirit by waving WSU flags and welcome signs along the main entrance road that lead to campus. 

Where: Flag wavers and sign holders will be positioned at the entrances to the WSU Tri-Cities campus at the corner of George Washington Way and Sprout Road in Richland. 

H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Turns Recovery into Community Action

ROSEBURG, Ore. — August 12.  Jesse Barrett, a participant in the graduation phase of the H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program, is giving back to the community through his community project, Brighter Days for Hope, a clothing drive focused on helping low-income and unhoused individuals in Douglas County.

Jesse is collecting new and gently used men’s pants, shirts, and socks through September 15, 2026. While clothing needs exist throughout the community, men’s clothing can often be in especially short supply. Through Brighter Days for Hope, Jesse hopes to help fill that gap and make sure men experiencing hardship have access to clean, comfortable clothing when they need it most.

“Even the hardest day sober is better than the best day in active addiction.” — Jesse Barrett

DONATIONS NEEDED

Community members are encouraged to donate:

• Pants
• Shirts
• Socks
• New or gently used items are welcome

DROP-OFF LOCATIONS

HIV Alliance
647 W. Luellen Drive, Suite 3

Painted Horse Recovery Center
1941 SE Stephens St.

Green Community Church
3777 Carnes Road

Donations will be collected through September 15.

Clothing, Community and a Hand Up

Brighter Days for Hope is intended to provide more than clothing. It is about offering a hand up to individuals who may be struggling with homelessness or limited income, while creating an opportunity for people to participate in caring for the community around them.

Jesse plans to distribute clothing during a Connecting Point event on September 17. Any remaining items will be provided to HIV Alliance to hand out at their discretion.  As part of the project, individuals experiencing homelessness will be encouraged to bring in a bag of collected trash in exchange for new clothing.

The idea behind the exchange is not to create a barrier to receiving help, but to provide an opportunity for participation, contribution and community pride. Picking up trash can help improve shared public spaces while allowing participants to know that they, too, have something valuable to contribute. The simple exchange promotes dignity, responsibility and connection while reinforcing the message that everyone can play a role in making their community better.

It is also an opportunity to shift the conversation from simply receiving assistance to working together. A cleaner community benefits everyone, while clean clothing can provide comfort, confidence and a renewed sense of hope for someone facing difficult circumstances.

Recovery That Reaches Beyond the Courtroom

Community projects are an important part of the H.O.P.E. Drug Court experience because recovery is about more than completing treatment or meeting court requirements. It is also about rebuilding connections, recognizing personal strengths and finding meaningful ways to contribute to others.

Treatment courts bring together the justice system, treatment providers and community partners to help participants address substance use, establish stability and work toward long-term recovery. As participants progress through the program, community projects provide an opportunity to take what they have learned and turn it into positive action.

Projects such as Brighter Days for Hope allow participants to identify a need that matters to them and become part of the solution. They also give the community an opportunity to see recovery in action — through service, accountability, compassion and meaningful change.

For Jesse, reaching the graduation phase represents significant progress in his own journey. His project carries a message that extends beyond donated clothing: people can change, people can contribute, and brighter days are possible.

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program recognizes that when individuals in recovery are supported in becoming healthy, stable and connected members of their community, the positive impact reaches far beyond one person. Families become stronger, community connections grow and hope becomes something that can be shared with others.

HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN HELP

Residents, businesses, churches and community organizations are encouraged to support Brighter Days for Hope by donating new or gently used men’s clothing before September 15, 2026.

A pair of pants, a clean shirt or a new pair of socks may seem simple, but for someone going through a difficult period, it can provide comfort, dignity and one less obstacle to overcome.

Together, small acts of service can help create brighter days and greater hope throughout our community.

Community members are also invited to attend the 114th H.O.P.E. Drug Court Graduation on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Cascade Hall.

For more information or to contribute, community members are encouraged to participate in the listed event.  Graduate flyers and additional information about the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program are available through the Douglas County website via the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court

H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant Merrill Ball turns his own experience into hope for people working to rebuild their lives

ROSEBURG, Ore. — August 10, 2026 — Having once experienced life without stable housing himself, H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant Merrill Ball knows firsthand how much a warm coat, a blanket and a helping hand can mean to someone who is struggling.

Now, as he reaches the graduation phase of the H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program, Ball is using his required community project as an opportunity to give back to the community that helped him rebuild his own life.

His project, “Warm for the Winter — Helping Those in Need,” is collecting new and gently used winter essentials for adults in need throughout the Douglas County community.

“I have been there and just want people to know it gets better and to keep your head up and moving forward,” Ball said.

Ball’s message comes from personal experience. His journey has required strength, resilience and a willingness to make significant changes. He credits his turnaround in large part to the combination of treatment, wraparound services, community support and the structure and accountability provided through the H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program.  For Ball, Warm for the Winter is about more than collecting coats and blankets. It is about reminding people who may currently be struggling that their circumstances do not have to define their future.

RECOVERY TAKES MORE THAN ONE SERVICE

Drug Court is designed to address the issues that often contribute to continued involvement in the criminal justice system by combining accountability with treatment, supervision and support.

Recovery and long-term stability rarely happen through one service alone. Participants may need substance use treatment, mental and behavioral health support, stable housing, transportation, employment assistance, medical care, peer support and other resources as they work to rebuild their lives.

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program works alongside treatment providers, community organizations and other local partners to help participants address those barriers while building the skills and stability necessary for long-term success.

The goal extends beyond sobriety. It is helping individuals establish healthier lives, strengthen relationships, find and maintain employment, secure stable housing, reconnect with their communities and develop the tools needed to continue moving forward.  Ball’s story is an example of what can happen when personal determination is met with accountability, treatment and a community willing to provide support.

Now, he wants to provide some of that support to others.

WARM FOR THE WINTER DONATION DRIVE

Community members are encouraged to donate:

• New or gently used adult coats — all sizes
• Throw blankets
• New socks
• Gloves
• Hand warmers
• Simple hygiene items

Donations will be collected through September 11, 2026.

DROP-OFF BOX LOCATIONS

Clint Newell Motors
1481 NE Stephens Street
Roseburg

Big O Tires
2545 NE Stewart Parkway
Roseburg

MEET MERRILL AT ROSEBURG GROCERY OUTLET

Ball will also be outside Roseburg Grocery Outlet accepting donations and talking with community members on the following dates:

Tuesday, August 11 — 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.  (Removed due to a court meeting)
Tuesday, August 18 — 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 25 — 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 1 — 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Roseburg Grocery Outlet is located at 780 NW Garden Valley Blvd., Suite 150.

A PROJECT ROOTED IN HOPE

Warm for the Winter represents the larger purpose behind community projects completed through the H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program: giving participants an opportunity to recognize their own growth while making a positive contribution to the community.

For Ball, the project brings his journey full circle.

He understands what it feels like to live outdoors, to face uncertainty and to need help getting back on your feet. Today, he is using that experience to help ensure someone else has a coat, blanket, pair of gloves or other basic necessity items when winter arrives.

His message to others is simple: keep going.

With treatment, accountability, wraparound services, community resources and people willing to help, change is possible.

And sometimes, one person’s recovery can become another person’s reason to have hope.  Ball will be handing out items during a Connecting Point location on September 17 and proving the South River Medical Center with any leftover items to hand out at their discretion.

ABOUT H.O.P.E. DRUG COURT

The H.O.P.E. Drug Court Program uses a collaborative treatment court approach that combines judicial accountability, substance use disorder treatment, supervision, incentives, support services and community partnerships. The program works to address barriers that can contribute to continued justice-system involvement while helping participants develop the stability, skills and support necessary to maintain recovery and build productive lives in the community.

Community members are also invited to attend the 114th H.O.P.E. Drug Court Graduation on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Cascade Hall.

The graduation ceremony recognizes participants who have worked diligently to overcome challenges, maintain their recovery and successfully complete the requirements of the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program. The community is encouraged to attend, celebrate the graduates and hear about the accomplishments, perseverance and hard work that brought them to this important milestone.

For more information or to contribute, community members are encouraged to participate in the listed event.  Graduate flyers and additional information about the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program are available through the Douglas County website via the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 10, 2026

J-FELL PRESENTS LAUNCHES TRIBUTE CONCERT SERIES AT THE NEW EVERETT THEATER

Historic Everett Venue to Host Year-Round Lineup of the Pacific Northwest's Top Tribute Artists

EVERETT, Wash. — J-Fell Presents has announced the launch of a new year-round tribute concert series at the New Everett Theater in downtown Everett, bringing many of the Pacific Northwest's most acclaimed tribute bands to one of Washington's most iconic historic venues.

The new series combines the New Everett Theater's historic atmosphere with J-Fell Presents' experience producing tribute concerts and festivals throughout the Pacific Northwest. Throughout the inaugural season, audiences can enjoy tributes celebrating the music of Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, ABBA, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, and more. 

The inaugural season includes:

• September 4 – No Quarter (Led Zeppelin)

• October 16 – Taken By The Sky (Fleetwood Mac)

• October 23 – PWRUP (AC/DC) with Bad Medicine (Bon Jovi)

• November 14 – Eagle Eyes (Eagles) with Classic Ronstadt (Linda Ronstadt)

• November 20 – The Grunge Show featuring tributes to Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, and Stone Temple Pilots

• December 5 – Band After Midnight (ABBA)

Additional concerts will be announced throughout the year as the series continues to grow.

"The New Everett Theater is entering an exciting new chapter, and we're thrilled to be part of it," said Jason Fellman, owner of J-Fell Presents. "The new ownership has made significant investments in the venue, and we believe it's the ideal place to build a destination for tribute concerts. The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the best tribute bands anywhere, and we're excited to bring them to Everett on a regular basis."

The New Everett Theater has recently undergone significant upgrades under new owner Johnny Phan, including the installation of a state-of-the-art LED video wall behind the stage and an interactive LED dance floor, creating an enhanced concert experience while preserving the character of one of the Pacific Northwest's most treasured historic theaters.

"Our goal has been to make the New Everett Theater a place where people can experience unforgettable live entertainment," said Johnny Phan, owner of the New Everett Theater. "The improvements we've made are just the beginning, and partnering with J-Fell Presents allows us to bring an incredible lineup of tribute concerts to our community. We think audiences are going to love what's coming."

Tickets for all announced concerts are on sale now, with additional performances to be announced in the coming months.

For tickets, upcoming shows, and additional information, visit www.everetttheater.org or the New Everett Theater, located at 2911 Colby Avenue, Everett, WA 98201.

About J-Fell Presents

J-Fell Presents is a Pacific Northwest concert promoter specializing in tribute concerts, live music events, and festival programming. The company produces concerts throughout Oregon and Washington and co-produces HAREFEST: The Mother of All Tribute Festivals, along with Capital City Retro Fest, 90's Flannel Fest, and Legends Reloaded. Through partnerships with leading venues and entertainment organizations, J-Fell Presents creates unforgettable live music experiences featuring many of the region's top tribute artists.

Media Contact

Jason Fellman
J-Fell Presents

esents@gmail.com" style="text-decoration:none;">jfellpresents@gmail.com
www.j-fell.com

503-515-2687

SALEM, Ore. – The Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked Friday morning for the Wrights Spring Fire burning southeast of Chiloquin in Klamath County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and six structural task forces. Two of the task forces were prepositioned in Douglas County ahead of forecasted increase in fire danger.

The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has issued level 1 and 2 evacuation notices for the area. Those looking for information about evacuations can follow the sheriff’s office on social media or check the county’s emergency management website.

The Wrights Spring Fire was reported on August 5 in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. The fire grew rapidly overnight pushed by extremely dry and windy conditions. As of Friday morning, it was estimated to be 8,722 acres and 0 percent contained. Federal wildland firefighters and air resources are working to slow the fire.

“We have been working with the local fire agencies and interagency partners since this incident was first reported,” Assistant Chief Deputy Mariah Rawlins said. “This fire has seen extreme growth and at the request of the fire defense board chief and county commissioner we are immediately engaging.”

The National Weather Service has heat advisories in place for the region. Red Flag Warnings have been issued for the Lower Columbia River Basin. Oregonians and visitors should pay attention to these conditions and take steps to prevent sparking an unintended wildfire.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with Northwest Team 8. This is the 12^th time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

Camas Lions Club Helps Deliver Custom 3D-Printed Mobility Trainer to Vancouver, WA Child

CAMAS, Wash. — June 2026 — The Camas Lions Club is proud to announce the successful delivery of a custom 3D-printed toddler mobility trainer to Benjamin, a 5-year-old boy from Vancouver, Washington, through a collaborative partnership with MakeGood and local Lions Club members.

Sunday, August 9, 2026, marks the delivery of the fourth custom mobility trainer provided by the Camas Lions Club, which continues to collaborate with regional organizations, therapy centers, and community partners to reach more children and families throughout the area.

The mobility trainer was designed by MakeGood, 3D printed by Camas Lion Chris Starke, and sponsored by the Camas Lions Club. The custom device was created specifically for Benjamin, incorporating his favorite character, Bluey, into personalized wheel designs. Adding a special touch of comfort and style, Camas Lion Sherry Keene handcrafted beautiful custom cushions designed to match the trainer.

Camas Lion Chris Starke, along with fellow club members, met Benjamin and his family in Vancouver to present the mobility trainer. The moment became a heartfelt celebration for everyone involved, filling the family—and the many Camas Lions members—with genuine joy.

The initiative reflects the supportive and collaborative spirit of the Camas Lions Club. When members first expressed interest in expanding assistive technology projects, the club rallied together, encouraging and supporting the effort just as they do with every community initiative.

As Camas Lions Club President Tim Eubank shared regarding the club’s growing impact, “We are expanding our horizons with every project, every day.” This milestone project highlights a growing movement of community volunteers leveraging modern technology and hands-on craftsmanship to create life-changing assistive devices. Through strong partnerships and local networking, the Camas Lions Club continues to remove barriers and deliver custom solutions through dedicated service to the community.

About Camas Lions Club

The Camas Lions Club is part of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service club organization. Guided by the motto “We Serve,” Camas Lions members volunteer their time and skills to support community needs through service projects, vision and hearing programs, youth initiatives, humanitarian efforts, and innovative partnerships that improve the lives of individuals and families throughout the region.

About MakeGood

MakeGood is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in New Orleans in 2021 with a mission to make life-changing assistive technology accessible to everyone, regardless of income, insurance, or geography. Through collaboration with individuals living with disabilities and their families—known as “Need Knowers”—MakeGood co-designs custom solutions to address real-world challenges. Using consumer 3D printers, MakeGood creates personalized assistive devices at a fraction of traditional costs and delivers them free of charge, making custom assistive solutions accessible to all through community service.

VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Friday, August 14, community members, students, and Vancouver Public Schools Leadership will celebrate the opening of the Ed Lynch Trades Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Fort Vancouver High School.
 

Date: August 14, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Fort Vancouver High School, 5700 E 18th Vancouver, WA 98661
 

The 8842-sq-ft facility will give high school students from throughout the district the opportunity to gain hands-on training in welding, advanced manufacturing, fabrication, precision machining, and emerging manufacturing technologies.
 

The new building features 16 professional welding booths, metal cutting processes, precision lathes, 3D printers, and industry-standard equipment designed to prepare students for high-demand careers.

Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, two advanced manufacturing cohorts will rotate daily, following a hands-on design-to-production learning model. Students will be guided through every stage of the manufacturing process—from concept and design to fabrication and the finished product.  Students will also receive career development opportunities including guest speakers, on-site job training, recruitment events, and paid internships. 

This new building was made possible by the Ed & Dollie Lynch Fund, in-kind contributions from Jon Girod and Dennis Wubben, and the partnership of local contractors. No tax payer dollars were used and the process was facilitated through the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools. 

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Jaclyn Miller
Director of Marketing and Communications
503.953.8104
jaclyn.miller@mowp.org

Media Opportunity: After 21 Years, Beloved MLK Center Leader Hosts Final Senior Photo Shoot Before Retirement

The annual photo shoot offers colorful visuals of older adults dressed in their finest attire as they receive complimentary professional portraits donated by Tony Sibley Photography in the Peninsula Park Rose Garden — portraits that become part of the MLK Center’s beloved “Wall of Fame.”

(Aug. 10, 2026 – Portland, Oregon) – After more than two decades of leading Meals on Wheels People’s Martin Luther King Jr. Center in Northeast Portland, Program Manager David Lomax will retire at the end of August. Before he begins his next chapter, he’ll host one final Senior Photo Shoot, an annual tradition he created in 2015 after noticing many older adults no longer appeared in family photographs.

“As seniors get older, they stop taking pictures,” David says. “As they pass, families are going around asking for photos. ‘Does anybody have any pictures of them?’ So I thought, ‘Let’s do a senior photo shoot!’”

The event offers media the opportunity to capture older adults celebrating their lives through professional portraits, interview David about his 21 years of service, and hear from participants whose lives have been enriched by the welcoming community he helped build.

Media Opportunity

Senior Photo Shoot
Date: Thursday, Aug. 13
Time: 10 a.m. to noon
Location: Peninsula Park Rose Garden, 700 N Rosa Parks Way
Visual Opportunities:

• Older adults dressed in their favorite outfits posing for professional portraits
• David Lomax interacting with longtime participants
• Interviews with David and older adults participating in the photo shoot
• Candid moments of laughter, connection, and celebration in the Peninsula Park Rose Garden

Background

David’s connection to the MLK Center runs deeper than his career. He grew up in Northeast Portland and returned to serve the community that shaped him.

“It’s a blessing to come back and serve in the community I grew up in,” he says.

When David became the MLK Center program manager in 2005, he helped grow the center into a gathering place where older adults feel known and valued. He built relationships with participants, volunteers, neighborhood organizations, and local businesses, creating a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the walls of the center.

One of his most meaningful legacies began in 2015, when David noticed that many older adults stopped appearing in photographs as they aged.

“As seniors get older, they stop taking pictures,” David says. “As they pass, families are going around asking for photos. ‘Does anybody have any pictures of them?’ So I thought, ‘Let’s do a senior photo shoot!’”

What began as a simple idea became a beloved tradition. Each year, older adults dress up, receive complimentary professional portraits, and see their photos displayed on the center’s “Wall of Fame.” This year’s portraits are generously donated by Tony Sibley Photography, continuing a tradition made possible by the generosity of community photographers. The tradition became personal for David, too. His own mother’s portrait hangs on the Wall of Fame — a reminder that every older adult has a story worth preserving.

For David, the heart of his work has always been the people.

“It’s the people. The people we serve. The community. The relationships,” he says. “We try to create a safe place for them. Sometimes we argue. Sometimes we may disagree. In the end, we’re a community.”

He describes many of the older adults served at the center as people who have “outgrown their family and outgrown their friends” — people who need a place where they are recognized, welcomed, and connected.

That sense of belonging is something older adults at the MLK Center have experience every day.

“He’s very concerned about everybody getting something to eat and having a place to go and do things,” says Alfredia Nelson, a longtime MLK Center participant and advisory council member. “I’ve always admired him. I just like the fact that he can ask you something with a smile, and whether you want to or not, you’ll do it. He’s a good organizer. Everything he suggests, I’m right there with him.”

During his tenure, David helped the center grow into a thriving community hub. Today, more than 55 older adults regularly gather at the center for meals, activities, and connection, while volunteers deliver more than 2,700 meals each week to 425 older adults throughout Northeast Portland.

Beyond the center walls, David built deep relationships throughout Northeast Portland. He created the annual Summer in September Jambalaya Festival & BBQ, which grew into a signature community fundraiser, and strengthened partnerships with neighborhood groups, businesses, volunteers, and community leaders.

But the legacy David leaves behind is perhaps best measured in the relationships he built — and the many older adults who know the MLK Center as a place where they belong.

We would love to welcome you to the Senior Photo Shoot to meet David, hear stories from older adults whose lives he has touched, and capture this special tradition before he begins his next chapter.

Media interested in attending or scheduling interviews should contact Jaclyn Miller at 503.953.8104 or jaclyn.miller@mowp.org.

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About Meals on Wheels People

Meals on Wheels People has been changing lives, one meal at a time, since 1970. We provide meals and human connection to thousands of older adults and families in the greater Portland metro and Vancouver areas. Our services alleviate hunger and social isolation and empower older adults to live independently with dignity in their own homes. For more information, visit mowp.org.