On Thursday, April 9, 2026 the Albany Police Department conducted a multi-agency law enforcement operation in Albany. We identified significant compliance issues among registered sex offenders during a coordinated sweep targeting 182 individuals. The effort, conducted by local, state, and federal partners, found that 105 offenders were in compliance, while 40 were non-compliant and 37 could not be located. When combined with additional administrative checks, a total of 285 compliance reviews revealed 149 compliant offenders, 99 non-compliant, and 37 with unknown status. Investigators also determined that many individuals were no longer in the area, including those who were deceased, incarcerated, or living out of state.

The operation resulted in 21 enforcement actions, including arrests, citations, warnings, and warrants served. Officials noted particular concern with inaccurate address reporting, especially among individuals listing a local shelter as their residence. The sweep focused on higher-risk offenders, including repeat offenders, those with prior violations, and individuals not previously checked in earlier operations, with the goal of improving registry accuracy and enhancing public safety.

Every effort is made to confirm sex offenders are in compliance with the law and ensure offenders are complying with the condition of their registration requirements. We would like to thank our partners, the United States Marshals Service, Oregon State Police Albany and Springfield Offices, the Sex Offender Registration Section and the Linn County Parole & Probation Office for their assistance and collaboration in making our community a safer place.

                                                                     #   #   #

The Board of Directors for Clackamas Fire District will hold a regular board meeting on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items for the regular board meeting will include the regular monthly division reports, Budget Committee Member interviews, a request for board approval of grant-funded emergency communications equipment purchase, and the appointment request of two applicants to the Clackamas Fire Budget Committee. 

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, April 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/. 

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Clackamas Fire Training Center (15990 SE 130^th Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Clackamas Fire District’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/. 

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Telecommunicators Recognized During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Columbia 9-1-1 highlights the critical link between callers and emergency response

ST. HELENS, Ore., Apr. 2026 — The Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District proudly recognizes its team of public safety telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (NPSTW), observed April 12–18, 2026. This annual observance honors the unseen but essential first responders who serve as the critical link between the public and emergency services.

Every day, telecommunicators at Columbia 9-1-1 answer calls for help, coordinate emergency responses, gather vital information, and provide lifesaving instructions before first responders arrive at the location of the emergency. These professionals work around the clock, remaining calm in crisis, supporting responders in the field, and delivering steady service to people across Columbia County.

“National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize the extraordinary service our dispatchers provide,” said Jeremy Hipes, Executive Director. “They are the steady voice in moments of crisis, and our community depends on their skill, compassion, and professionalism every single day.”

Throughout NPSTW 2026, the District will recognize staff through internal appreciation efforts and community outreach to increase awareness of the essential role emergency telecommunicators play in public safety.

The Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District extends its deepest appreciation to all telecommunicators for their continued commitment to serving the public and supporting first responders.

About the Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District
The District provides emergency call-taking and dispatch services for law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services across Columbia County. Established in 1989, it serves approximately 53,000 residents over 678 square miles and handles about 80,000 calls each year for 17 public safety agencies. The District remains committed to delivering reliable, professional, and compassionate service to the community.

Media Contact:
Jeremy Hipes
Executive Director
Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District
JHipes@Columbia911.com

PRESS RELEASE

A25-247 MISSING PERSON INVESTIGATION

APRIL 15, 2026

On April 12, 2026, Cowlitz County residents were hiking on Weyerhaeuser property near Rose Valley Rd and the 1600 line. During their hike they came across clothing and 2 bones. They notified authorities and a photo of the bones was sent to a forensic anthropologist who identified the bones as human.

Detectives from the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office attempted to reach the remains that night but due to the location and late hour, they could not. On April 13^th Detective James Hanberry coordinated a search with the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office and Cowlitz County Search and Rescue. One of the men who had found the remains led the search party to the area. Nearly complete skeletal remains were located as well as multiple items of clothing and personal belongings.

This location was in the middle of an area that Det. Hanberry had identified, through diligent investigation and interviews, as an area of interest in the disappearance of Hailey Athay. Prior searches had been conducted near this area, but no evidence had been recovered.

The remains were turned over to the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office. An analysis by a forensic anthropologist will be completed to determine the cause of death.

A forensic odontologist examined the recovered skull and compared the teeth to dental records for Athay. The odontologist was able to make a positive comparison and identified the remains as those of Hailey Athay.

The exact location will not be released at this time as this remains an active investigation pending cause and manner of death.

Undersheriff Troy Brightbill

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

The FBI has updated images of persons of interest in an ongoing investigation into the breach and damage caused by rioters at the Federal Building in Eugene, Oregon, on January 30, 2026. 

UPDATE: GERALDINE PARKER HAS BEEN LOCATED

RELEASE DATE:               April 15, 2026
CASE NUMBER:                 26-16297
 

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for assistance from the public with locating a missing 74-year-old woman, Geraldine Parker.  Staff at Geraldine’s assisted care facility reported she left at 6 p.m. yesterday, using a rideshare service to visit her son. The care facility is located in the 3900 block of SE 182 Ave. Staff is concerned because Geraldine has dementia, is missing her critical medication, and they have been unable to reach Geraldine’s son.

Geraldine is described as a White female who is 5-feet and 4-inches tall and weighs 175 pounds. She has gray hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing a light blue shirt and blue jeans.  

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

#30

RELEASE DATE:               April 15, 2026
CASE NUMBER:                 26-16297
 

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for assistance from the public with locating a missing 74-year-old woman, Geraldine Parker.  Staff at Geraldine’s assisted care facility reported she left at 6 p.m. yesterday, using a rideshare service to visit her son. The care facility is located in the 3900 block of SE 182 Ave. Staff is concerned because Geraldine has dementia, is missing her critical medication, and they have been unable to reach Geraldine’s son.

Geraldine is described as a White female who is 5-feet and 4-inches tall and weighs 175 pounds. She has gray hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing a light blue shirt and blue jeans.  

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

#30

Cascade Locks, Ore. – The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the remains of Kenneth Martin, Barbara Martin, and Barbie Martin following DNA analysis by Othram, Inc. of remains located in the Columbia River within the wreckage of the Martin family car. The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its investigation, having found no evidence of a crime.

The Martin family originally disappeared in December of 1958 while reportedly visiting the Columbia River Gorge to collect Christmas greenery. The remains of Virginia (13) and Susan (11) Martin were found downstream months later, but the parents, Kenneth and Barbara, and oldest daughter Barbara (“Barbie”, 14) were never found despite extensive searching and diving.

In 2024, a private diver located what he believed to be the Martin family car in a catch-basin area within the original locks in Cascade Locks, Oregon. In early 2025, the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office contracted a crane to attempt to pull the vehicle out of the river. Due to the extent to which the vehicle had been encased in sediment, only the frame and some of the attached components were able to be pulled from the water. Analysis of those items along with other items retrieved by the diver allowed investigators to conclude that this was in fact the Martin car.

Later in 2025, the diver located human remains, which were turned over to the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office, and subsequently to the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office.

To assist with identification, the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office and the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Othram Inc., a forensic genetics laboratory specializing in advanced DNA analysis. Othram uses the identity inference method, which allows scientists to identify individuals from DNA evidence even when no direct comparison sample is initially available. Recovered forensic evidence from the case was submitted to Othram’s laboratory in The Woodlands, Texas.

Othram scientists developed DNA extracts from the remains and generated a comprehensive Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) profile for one of the unidentified individuals. SNPs are the most common type of genetic variation and are commonly used in forensic genetic genealogy. Unfortunately, the other two DNA profiles were too degraded to be fully sequenced.

The successfully generated profile was directly compared with family reference standards obtained from known relatives of the Martin family. This comparison enabled investigators to evaluate biological relationships with a high degree of accuracy.

Through this process, Kenneth Martin was positively identified and based on the totality of the circumstances in which the remains were recovered, and the anthropological assessment of the remains, Barbara Martin and Barbie Martin were also identified.

This identification reflects a sustained coordinated effort, scientific partnership, and continued advancements in forensic genetic genealogy. We appreciate the work of Othram Inc. in conducting the specialized testing, the Research Triangle Institute (RTI) for supporting the analyses.

Following the successful identification, the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office notified next of kin, who wish for privacy and have requested no media contact.

The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office for their support with locating relevant records to assist with the investigation. We would also like to thank the members of the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Team and the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division for their support. For the identification efforts, special thanks goes out to the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office, Othram, Inc., and the Research Triangle Institute, as well as to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System for their financial assistance in funding the genetic testing.

SPRING SCAM REMINDER

April showers bring May flowers but scams are always in-season. Ever year Oregonians fall victim to scams from criminals disguising themselves as legitimate organizations or businesses. They are quite savvy in getting you to provide your personal information and create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly.

One popular scam we see in Lincoln County is via phone call. Scammers pretend to be from our agency or another organization calling regarding jury duty, an outstanding fees, etc. Then they pressure you to pay a fine or bail money, often in Bitcoin, gift cards, or other non-traditional payment forms. You should know our office will NOT ask for payment over the phone. Before you share any information with the caller, collect their name, agency, and reason for calling. Then hang up and look up the organization’s real contact information to confirm the call is legitimate. Save our contact information below so that you can quickly verify someone from our office calling.

Protect yourself from scams:

• Use caution, especially with those you are not familiar with.
  • When you receive unexpected contacts from people or businesses, over the phone, by mail, email, in person, or on social media, always consider the possibility that the interaction may be a scam.
  • Remember to call or log on to the organization’s real website to verify the information you’ve been given is accurate.
  • Verify the caller is from a legitimate organization before sharing any information. If you have trouble verifying an organization’s phone number or website, consider stopping by their office to speak with someone in person.
• Protect your passwords and personal information.
  • Always use password protection.
  • Don’t share access with others.
  • Update security software and back up content regularly.
  • Protect your Wi-Fi network with a password.
  • Avoid using public computers or Wi-Fi hotspots to access online banking or other personal information.
• Ignore unfamiliar attachments or links.
  • Don’t click on links, open attachments, attempt to unsubscribe, or call any telephone number listed in suspicious messages.
  • Do NOT give any money, credit card info, or other personal details.
  • When in doubt, look up the organization’s website or phone number and contact them directly.
     
• Save contact information from official organization’s ahead of time.
  • Anytime you open a bank account, work with a company, etc., save that organization’s phone number, website, and address so that you can reach out to them if you receive something suspicious or have questions about someone from their agency contacting you.
     
• Know what an organization will and won’t ask for over the phone or through email.
  • The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office will NOT ask you for payment over the phone.
  • Most government agencies will not ask for sensitive information such as social security numbers, passwords, etc. over the phone.
     
• Help friends and family learn how to spot a scam.
  • Protect others by helping them learn and follow scam prevention tips.
  • Encourage loved ones of all ages to tell you about or otherwise report suspicious calls, texts, emails, and social media messages. Remind them to verify the person or organization sending the message before they reply back, provide information, or click on any links.

How to know if information is really from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office:

• It is on our official website: lincolncountysheriff.net/
• Our staff can verify the information is true. Give us a call at 541-265-4277 if you have questions about a service or need to connect with someone in our Office.
• It comes directly from our Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, NOT a third party or a comment from another Facebook user.
•  It comes from one of our other Facebook accounts: Lincoln County Animal Shelter or Lincoln County Oregon Emergency Management

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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ANIMAL SHELTER NEW FACILITY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BEGINNING APRIL 14

After years of planning, dedication, and community support, the brand-new Lincoln County Animal Shelter building will officially open its doors to the public on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Our communities got a sneak peak of the new facility during our ribbon cutting in March and our team is excited to now be able to open the doors and in-person services next week.

Come explore our facility in Waldport, designed to give furry friends the comfort, care, and love they deserve. Whether you’re looking to adopt your new best friend, volunteer, or simply stop by to say hello, our shelter has a chance for you to be part of something special.

Some things you can expect at the new facility:

• Adorable adoptable pets ready to meet their forever families
• In person service for dog licensing
• Opportunities to sign up for volunteering and fostering
• A warm, welcoming team excited to meet you

Shelter details:

• Location: 220 SW Dahl Ave. Waldport, OR 97394
• Open Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Interested in scheduling a shelter tour or have other questions? Contact Shelter Manager Marie Gainer at mgainer@co.lincoln.or.us or 541-265-0725

Looking for ways to help your Lincoln County Animal Shelter?  

• Make a donation 
  • Monetary donations may be mailed or brought to: 
    • Lincoln County Animal Shelter
      P.O. Box 1390
      Waldport, OR 97394
    • Lincoln County Animal Shelter
      220 SW Dahl Avenue  
      Waldport, OR 97394 
  • Call 541-265-0720 to make a donation over the phone. 
• Shop our wish list on Amazon.  

• Become a volunteer and enrich shelter life for the animals in our care! Dog walkers, cat socializers, foster homes, and more are needed. Learn more about volunteering and submit a volunteer application today! 

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MALHEAUR COUNTY, Ore. (15 April 2026) – On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 10:03 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 95 near milepost 101 in Malheur County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Honda Accord, operated by Rohit Ror (27) of Frensno (CA), was traveling southbound on Hwy. 95 near Jordan Valley when it entered the northbound lane for an unknown reason. The Honda collided head-on with a northbound silver Dodge Ram towing a utility trailer, operated by Gary Albert Diederich (74) of Greencreek (ID).

The operator of the Honda (Ror) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Despite lifesaving attempts by a passing motorist, the operator of the Dodge (Diederich) died at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Jordan Valley EMS and Humboldt County (NV) EMS. OSP would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the passing motorist who tried to save Mr. Diederich’s life.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact the OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26122543.

# # #

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.

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (15 April 2026) – On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 11:51 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal on Interstate 84 near milepost 87 in Wasco County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an Oregon Department of Transportation attenuator vehicle, operated by Tristan David Service (42) of The Dalles, was supporting a mobile brooming operation sweeping along the center median on I-84 near The Dalles. The attenuator vehicle was positioned and stationary in the left lane as a safety barrier for the sweeper ahead when it was struck from behind by a black Harley-Davidson motorcycle, operated by Ryan Christopher King (38) of West Richland, Washington.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (King) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The ODOT vehicle operator (Service) was not injured.

OSP was assisted by the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, The Dalles Police Department, Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue, and ODOT.
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in 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.

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (15 April 2026) – On Friday, April 10, 2026, members of the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Medford, Oregon State Police (SWAT, Patrol and Major Crimes), Grants Pass Police Department (SWAT), Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol (Northern Division) concluded a six-week-long drug investigation in Oregon and California by executing three residential search warrants in Wolf Creek, Oregon, and one residential search warrant in Corning, California. During the investigation, RADE and the DEA identified a drug trafficking organization operating out of Wolf Creek that was being supplied with methamphetamine from Corning.

On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the investigation led to a traffic stop on Marshall Clifford De La Garza (39), who was found to be transporting approximately 90 pounds of methamphetamine destined for Josephine County, Oregon, from Corning, California.
 

The three residential search warrants executed in Wolf Creek led to the seizure of multiple firearms and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Three individuals were arrested: Johnny Dean Davis Jr. (43), Daniel Cody Green (44), and Stephen Ray Higgins (56). Davis, Green, and Higgins were all lodged at the Josephine County Jail and charged with multiple crimes, including racketeering, delivery of methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine.
 

Additionally, Jesus Fernando Vega (53) was arrested and booked in Corning, California, by the CHP. The search warrant executed at Vega’s residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 58 pounds of methamphetamine, 6 kilograms of cocaine, $227,752, a stolen pistol, a revolver, a hunting rifle, and a MAC-10–style machine gun.
 

The RADE team is a multijurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts and dismantles local, multistate and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multiagency, prosecutor-supported approach. RADE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), composed of members from the Oregon State Police, Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Community Corrections, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)-sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including RADE.
 

There is no additional information available at this time.

# # #

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

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the OSP-DHE Initiative.

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (14 April 2026) – Following a grand jury indictment, Oregon State Police made an arrest today in a Grants Pass sex abuse case involving a Grants Pass school support staff member.

On February 6, 2026, the Oregon State Police began an investigation into Highland Elementary School educational assistant Joseph Deley (64), for potential sexual abuse crimes against a female student. The investigation led to the discovery of three additional female Highland Elementary student victims of Deley, during the school years of 2018, 2022, and 2024, for a total of four identified victims.

The investigation was referred to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office. On April 9, 2026, Deley was indicted on six counts of sexual abuse in the first degree by a Josephine County grand jury, and a warrant was issued for Deley’s arrest. This morning, Deley was arrested and lodged at the Josephine County Jail without incident.

Anyone with additional information is requested to contact the OSP Southern Command Center dispatch center at (541) 664-4600 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-042392.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. (14 April 2026) – On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 7:06 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 30 near milepost 48 in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Subaru Outback, operated by Ronald Craig Powers (69) of Longview (WA), was traveling westbound on Hwy. 30 near Rainier when it crossed into the eastbound lane colliding head-on with a red Ford Focus, operated by Randy Charles Bloom (62) of Scappoose.

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

A passenger in the Ford, Shana Jean Bloom (59) of Scappoose, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Subaru (Powers) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.

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

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Rainier Police Department, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia River Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

# # #

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.

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (13 April 2026) – On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3:48 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 220 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Kia Forte, operated by Mark Evan Simpson (48) of Portland, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 97 when it entered the scene of three-vehicle non-injury crash. The Kia crossed the center line and proceeded through the southbound travel lane and collided head-on with a Volvo 760 commercial motor vehicle, operated by Das Balbir (59) of Richmond of British Columbia, pulling onto the shoulder to avoid a disabled vehicle from the first crash. As a result of the collision, the Kia spun back across the northbound lanes and came to a rest against a tree off the northbound shoulder of the highway.

The operator of the Kia (Simpson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Volvo (Balbir) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Chemult Rural Fire Protection District, Chiloquin Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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.

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (13 April 2026) – On Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 6:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 34 near milepost 14 in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Hyundai Elantra, operated by Rebecca Estelle Fonseca (55) of Sweet Home, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 34 when it hydroplaned and crossed into the eastbound lane. The Hyundai collided head-on with an eastbound blue BMW 32L, operated by Ashley Sue Fraley (31) of Lebanon.

A passenger in the Hyundai, Kayla Marie Fonseca (35) of Sweet Home, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the BMW (Fraley) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Hyundai (Rebecca Fonseca) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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.

Clackamas County, Ore 12 Apr 2026- Oregon State Police and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office involved in officer involved shooting.

On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 6:55 p.m., Oregon State Police contacted an impaired motorist at the intersection of Highway 26 and East Brightwood Loop Road, in Clackamas County. When the trooper contacted the suspect, he fled the scene in a vehicle. OSP and Clackamas County pursued the suspect eastbound before the vehicle was stopped near the Barlow Trail Roadhouse.

The traffic stop culminated in a deadly use of force. A single suspect was struck by gunfire and declared deceased at the scene. 

No law enforcement or other community members were injured during the incident.

In accordance with standard protocols, the investigation is being led by the Clackamas County Major Crimes team in coordination with the Clackamas County District Attorneys Office.

Future news releases will come from the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (10 April 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual or individuals suspected of contaminating a pond near the White River Wildlife Area in Tygh Valley.

On March 26, 2026, multiple cans of spray foam were located in a small pond bordering the White River Wildlife Area. The cans had been compromised, causing the foam to leak into the water. It appeared that the cans and foam had been there for several days prior to their discovery.

Information leading to the identification and citation or arrest of the individuals could yield a reward of $300.

Anyone with information may email a tip to TIP@osp.oregon.gov​ or contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 800-442-2068 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-100289.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

For more information visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

On Saturday night at 10:42pm Portland Fire crews were dispatched to a house on fire. Rescue 19 was first on scene and stated they had fire through the roof and that it was going to take a minute to make access as the building was surrounded by fencing.  The building was an approximately 100’x300’ L shaped apartment building under construction. The body of the fire on arrival was contained to the single story portion of the apartment building. 

A second and eventually third alarm were called as more apparatus and crews were needed to provide the number of resources necessary to both control and extinguish the fire. Ladder pipes were placed into action as crews fought the fire defensively from the exterior of the structure. Once they were able to control the fire, crews were sent interior with handlines to ensure the fire remained in the single-story portion of the structure.  The early use of ladder pipes enabled crews to save some of the structure from fire damage. 

Crews had the fire controlled and mostly extinguished within an hour of the dispatch.

The fire was recalled at 11:44pm keeping several truck companies on scene with their ladder pipes up. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. There were no injuries, and no one will be displaced as the building was still under construction.

PFR units on scene: 31

Fire Ops Personnel: 99

The Tigard Police Department is sad to share that K-9 Rico passed away recently, after nine years of service to the community.

Rico celebrated his 10^th birthday earlier this year, and due to his age, he was expected to retire from police work in July. However, his health took a sudden turn for the worst and he died on Tuesday, April 7.

Rico arrived at the Tigard Police Department in April 2017 as a 15-month-old puppy. He completed 400 hours of training with the Oregon Police Canine Association and worked with two handlers over the course of his career, Officer Rivera (2017-2020) and Officer Suyama (2020-Present).

Over the course of his career, Rico worked nearly 3,000 hours (2,965) searching for criminal suspects, articles of evidence, missing people or in training. He worked on more than 1,000 (1,049) police calls, including 392 tracks, he found 121 articles of evidence, completed 116 building searches and helped capture 114 criminal suspects. In addition to supporting Tigard patrol officers, he also helped on police calls for neighboring agencies throughout his career.

With K-9 Rico’s passing, we now have two K-9s, Cooper and Ranum. As of now, we plan to continue supporting patrol operations with our two K-9s and do not plan on replacing Rico.

His personality, energy, love for playtime, devotion to his handlers and connection with the Tigard community will be deeply missed. A video of K-9 Rico over the years is available here: https://youtu.be/6hHUZgozi7I.

###

April 14, 2026

Just before 9:00 p.m., crews from Vancouver Fire and Clark County Fire District 3 were dispatched to a reported structure fire at 9304 NE 227th Avenue.

A resident called 911 to report a rapidly developing kitchen fire, forcing the family to evacuate the home. While units were enroute, dispatchers relayed critical information that multiple pets remained trapped inside the burning structure.  First-arriving crews were met with heavy smoke conditions and immediately initiated an aggressive interior attack. Firefighters entered the smoke-filled home to bring the fire under control while simultaneously conducting a primary search for the missing animals. During the search, firefighters located and rescued two dogs and two cats from inside the residence. All four animals were quickly removed from the structure, and crews began emergency resuscitation efforts on scene. Despite the rapid response and lifesaving efforts of personnel, three of the animals succumbed. One dog was successfully revived and survived (pictured).

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office.

City of Vancouver Fire Department Welcomes New Engine 5 with Traditional “Push-In” Ceremony at Station 5

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver Fire Department proudly marked the arrival of its newest apparatus, Engine 5, with a traditional “Push-In” ceremony at Fire Station 5. Firefighters, mechanics, and department personnel gathered to officially place the new engine into service, celebrating both a significant investment in public safety and a longstanding fire service tradition.

Engine 5, manufactured by KME, a member of the REV Group, brings advanced technology, modern safety systems, and enhanced operational capabilities to the department. This state-of-the-art apparatus will support firefighters in delivering faster, safer, and more effective emergency response to the Vancouver community.

The “Push-In” ceremony honors a tradition dating back to the 1800s, when horse-drawn fire engines had to be manually pushed into the station after returning from calls. Today, departments across the country continue the practice as a symbolic connection to the fire service’s rich history and enduring values.

“Today’s ceremony connects us to our past while celebrating an important step forward for our department,” said Captain Egan. “Engine 5 strengthens our ability to protect lives and property, and the ‘Push-In’ tradition reminds us of the generations of firefighters who built the foundation we stand on today.”

In a meaningful reflection of teamwork, firefighters were joined by the department’s fleet maintenance technicians—who are based at Station 5—in pushing Engine 5 into its bay for the first time. The moment highlighted the essential role these skilled mechanics play in ensuring every emergency vehicle is maintained to the highest standards.

“This engine represents more than new equipment—it reflects our community’s commitment to safety and resilience,” Captain Egan added. “Our fleet technicians are a vital part of our fire department family. Their expertise and dedication ensure our apparatus are ready to respond at a moment’s notice, and we are proud to recognize their contributions today.”

The City of Vancouver Fire Department extends its sincere appreciation to community members and city leadership for their continued support in strengthening emergency services and public safety.

Media Contact:
City of Vancouver Fire Department
Public Information Office
Phone: (360) 869-3914
Email: cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
Website: www.cityofvancouver.us/departments/fire-department/

Contact:
Captain Raymond Egan
raymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us
cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
Work Cell: (360) 869-3914

  Update

The suspect in this investigation is Tyrell E. Peters. He was arrested for Murder I. 

The Clark County Medical Examiner will release the identity, cause and manner of death of the victim. 

Nothing additional is being released at this time. 

Vancouver, Wash. – On April 9, 2026, at around 11:30 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to a residence in 10400 block of NE Oakbrook Circle for the report of an assault. Officers located a 33-year-old female with significant knife wounds who was deceased and a 30-year-old male with self-inflicted, life-threatening wounds. The male was transported to an area hospital for treatment of his injuries and remains hospitalized.  

The Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit is investigating and nothing additional is being released at this time.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – On April 11, 2026, at around 2:30 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to 500 E 13^th Street (The Hudson) for the report of a brandishing. A resident reported that another resident pointed a firearm at them and then retreated inside their apartment.

Due to the proximity of the complex to I-5, the southbound lanes of the freeway were shut down while members of the SWAT team attempted contact with the suspect.  

After an extended standoff, SWAT members took the suspect into custody. Shortly after that, I-5 was reopened. Upon search of the apartment, multiple firearms were located.

The suspect, Terry Meyers, 58 years old, was booked into the Clark County Jail for Assault II (X2) and Assault III.

Nothing additional is being released at this time.

###

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies and volunteer reserve deputies conducted a compliance mission to identify retailers selling alcohol to minors. Deputies monitored 18-20-year-old Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) cadets as they attempted to purchase alcohol from 42 local retailers.

During the mission, cadets would enter a location that sells alcoholic beverages and attempt to purchase alcohol using their real Oregon Driver License, and are instructed to be truthful if asked questions about their age.

In most cases, retailers did not sell alcohol to minors and were thanked for complying with Oregon’s liquor laws. Five retailers sold alcohol to the minor cadet. At each of the five locations, the sales clerk was issued a citation for furnishing alcohol to a minor.

The five locations that sold alcohol to minors were:

• Cedar Mill Liquor Store
• Green Light Food Mart
• Safeway on Cornell Road
• The Booze Barn
• Target on Beaverton Hillsdale Highway

The Sheriff’s Office periodically conducts alcohol compliance missions to stem the sales of alcohol to minors and is grateful for the retailers who refuse to sell. 

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, at about 5:48 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies attempted to contact 29-year-old Rafael Ortiz near the 4900 block of SW Greensboro Way in Beaverton. Ortiz was wanted for multiple felony warrants and was associated with a domestic violence assault case from March 28, 2026.

Ortiz fled on foot into the Westside Trail and hid in blackberry bushes. Corporal Sam Terry responded with K9 Griff and located the suspect hiding along the trail near SW 160th Avenue. After Ortiz ignored commands to stop, K9 Griff apprehended Ortiz.

Ortiz sustained puncture wounds, and was treated at a local hospital prior to being lodged at the Washington County Jail for the following charges:

• Assault in the fourth degree – Felony
• Coercion
• Escape in the third degree
• Harassment
• Violation of a release agreement
• Nine other outstanding warrants.

K9 Griff is a 6-year-old German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix. He is a certified patrol dog through the Oregon Police Canine Association and has been partnered with Corporal Terry since April 2021. The team has 146 captures.

If you witnessed this incident or have security camera video and have not yet spoken to investigators, please contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing WCSO Case# 50-26-4258.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported brush fire along NE Studio Rd this morning just after 10am. Crews arrived to find a 40-foot strip of ornamental juniper brushes on fire in front of a house. The occupant was attempting to stop the fire with a garden hose, but the wind kept the fire going. The first arriving fire engine was able to extinguish the fire quickly and prevent it from spreading to the house and other juniper bushes. There was no reported property damage outside of the brush. Studio Rd was closed for a short time as crews extinguished the fire. 

The fire was caused by the occupant using a weed burner to clear material from his driveway. While weed burners are allowed in the rural areas while burning is open, they are not allowed in the city limits as they are considered debris burning. City ordinance bans all debris burning within the city limits of Bend. The occupant was provided a warning as this was a first offense. 

This is a good reminder of why debris burning will be closed down a month early this year compared to last year. Even with the rain and snow over the past week vegetation is still very dry and can easily ignite and spread. If you are finishing up burning this spring, we ask that you be extremely careful while doing it. Ensure all preparations are done before burning such as having water on hand, clearing combustibles away from the burn and having tools ready to go. Call the burn information line before burning outside the city limits to ensure it is open that day as well because if we see that winds are too strong, we can shut it down on a daily basis. All debris burning will be closed throughout Central Oregon at the end of the day on 4/30/26. 

Bend Fire & Rescue, in conjunction with the Central Oregon Fire Chiefs Association, announce that outdoor debris burning will close at the end of April for the Bend area.

Outdoor debris burning will be open as conditions allow in the rural areas surrounding Bend until midnight on Thursday, April 30. Debris burning is not allowed within Bend city limits, per City of Bend Ordinance.

This closure comes a month earlier than normal because of increased risk shown by local drought declarations and the seasonal fire outlook.  

Backyard fires, which include warming fires, campfires and cooking fires are typically allowed year-round in the city of Bend and the surrounding areas covered by Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2, when following Bend Fire & Rescue burning regulations. Additional restrictions can be placed on campfires during peak temperatures to reduce fire risk.

Please check restrictions every time you burn by calling the Bend area information hotline at 541-322-6335. Learn more about burn regulations and permitting at bendoregon.gov/burninginfo.

As temperatures continue to rise, please remember that wildfire is a threat in Central Oregon. Protect your home from wildfire by clearing flammable vegetation and creating defensible space. More information about simple actions you can take to prepare for the upcoming fire season can be found at bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Outdoor Burning to Close April 30^th Due to Increased Wildfire Risk

April 13, 2026 REDMOND, OR — Due to increasing wildfire risk and the onset of an early wildfire season, all outdoor debris burning within Redmond Fire & Rescue’s District will close at midnight on April 30, 2026 and a burn ban will take effect.

Unseasonably warm and dry conditions, combined with declining fuel moisture, have significantly increased the potential for wildfires across the region. These conditions elevate the risk that escaped debris burns could quickly spread and threaten life, property, and natural resources.

Effective midnight April 30th, all forms of outdoor burning—including yard debris burning—will be prohibited until further notice. This closure is intended to reduce the likelihood of human‑caused wildfires during a period of heightened fire danger.

As a reminder, the closure of outdoor debris burning prohibits all of the following:

1. Backyard or open burning (branches, yard debris, etc.). This includes burn barrels.

2. Agricultural burning (agricultural wastes, crops, field burning, ditches etc.).

3. Any other land clearing, slash, stump, waste, debris or controlled burning.

4. Bonfires

At this time the burn ban does not include;

1. Small outdoor cooking, warming or recreational fires at residential properties. These include portable or permanent fire pits, fire tables, and campfires, with a maximum fuel area of three feet in diameter and two feet in height in a safe location away from combustibles or vegetation and are fully extinguished after use.

2. Barbeque grills, smokers and similar cooking appliances with clean, dry firewood, briquettes, wood chips, pellets, propane, natural gas, or similar fuels.

If conditions change, additional restrictions may be put in place. Residents can follow Redmond Fire & Rescue’s website, Facebook and Instagram pages for current information.

Redmond Fire & Rescue urges residents to take wildfire prevention seriously by fully extinguishing campfires, properly disposing of smoking materials, ensuring spark‑arresting equipment is maintained, and complying with all fire restrictions. Alternative disposal options, such as chipping, hauling, or composting yard debris, are encouraged.

Public cooperation is critical to preventing wildfires and protecting Central Oregon communities during this early fire season. Updates on fire restrictions and wildfire conditions will be provided as conditions change.

While outdoor burning is still open, residents are required to check Redmond Fire & Rescue’s website daily, www.rdmfire.org, to obtain a burn permit as burning conditions can change on a daily basis.

SALEM, Ore. – Eight members of the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) Support Detachment were recognized during a mobilization ceremony at Camp Whitycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, as they prepare to deploy to the Middle East in support of the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations.

The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions.

“I want everyone in the room to understand something. That number (eight) does not reflect the mission's importance or the impact this unit will have downrange. Some of the most critical work in any military operation is accomplished by a small team,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard and the Presiding Officer for the ceremony.

These soldiers calibrate and repair the diagnostic testing equipment that all other units rely on. They support aviation, communications, medical, CBRN, and weapons systems. Their work ensures instruments measure correctly, so diagnostic tools give reliable readings. This helps keep the equipment that soldiers trust with their lives safe and dependable.

“To the members of the 150th TMDE, you carry Oregon with you and carry over 25 years of history from the Balkans, to Iraq, to Europe, and now the Middle East,” Gronewold said. “That’s a legacy worth honoring, and you are adding to it today.”

The origins of the unit date to 1999, when it was established as Detachment 4, 1241st Ordnance Team, to provide precision calibration support for Army systems. Currently, the 150th SMDE Support Detachment remains a critical contributor to Army readiness, supporting both domestic and overseas missions.

-30-

Released Imagery:

260415-Z-CH590-1056: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers of the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260415-Z-CH590-1123: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, 821st Troop Command Battalion, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment as they are mobilized on April 15, 2026, for assignment in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260415-Z-CH590-1083: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment as they are mobilized on April 15, 2026, for assignment in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260415-Z-CH590-1046: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard (right), greets Soldiers assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment, at the conclusion of the unit’s formal mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260415-Z-CH590-1013: Members of the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment and members of the official party stand for the playing of the National Anthem during their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260415-Z-CH590-1019: The unit Guidon for the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment is presented to those in attendance at the unit's formal mobilization ceremony on April 15, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

VIDEO B-roll of ceremony: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1002748/150th-tmde-mobilization-ceremony

GOVERNOR'S COMMISSION ON THE

LAW ENFORCEMENT MEDAL OF HONOR

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Governor's Commission on the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor will hold a virtual meeting at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Alexander at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.alexander@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be available for living viewing using the following link:

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NmEwYmMyOTEtZDczYy00Y2Q4LThhY2UtMTE3N2U2YjEzYTkw%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2254943e19-2b2a-42ce-a366-c28304ab9e00%22%7d

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Minutes for January 26, 2026, Meeting

3. Michael Snyder, DPSST No. 60486; Reedsport Police Department - Nomination for Medal of Honor

     Presented by Phil Castle

4. Next meeting - TBD

Administrative Announcement

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

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 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 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 4, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

4. Criminal Justice Fee Implementation

     Presented by Chris Enquist

5. Review of Telecommunications Curriculum Advisory Committee Membership

     Presented by Chris Enquist

6. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0300 and 259-008-0310

     Denial and Revocation Processes for Professional Standards Cases Involving Student Dismissals or Employment Arbitration Findings

     Presented by Jennifer Howald

7. Review of Public Comments for Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0005, 259-008-0290, 259-008-0300, 259-008-0310, 259-008-0320, 259-008-0340, and 259-008-0400

     Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

     Presented by Jennifer Howald

8. Agency Updates

9. Next Telecommunications Policy Committee Meeting: August 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

Approve the January 22, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair

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

A. Clifton Booher, DPSST No. 13925; Albany Fire Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 25, 2026.

B. Kyle Clark, DPSST No. 44945; Irrigon RFPD – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 25, 2026.

C. Steven Eubanks, DPSST No. 41031; Scio RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on November 19, 2025.

D. Request for Fire Policy Committee Review of Fire Certifications

Adoption of Standards and Issuance of Fire Certifications

E. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-009-0005, 259-009-0062, and 259-009-0065

Minimum Standards on Professional Qualifications for NFPA Airport Firefighter

F. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

Ryan Gregor – Central Oregon Community College. Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Nicholas Hunter, Chair

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

A. Sefiu Ballam, DPSST No. 59203; Marion County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote with one (1) recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

B. Robert Bingham, DPSST No. 38928; Washington County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote with one (1) recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

C. Mileena Edwards, DPSST No. 61544; Warm Springs Police Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 4, 2026.

D. Louis Martin, DPSST No. 45897; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

E. Alexander Navruzov, DPSST No. 64946; DOC/Columbia River Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

F. Ryan Reid, DPSST No. 48586; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

G. Austin Wilcox, DPSST No. 64231; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

H. Sabrina Whittaker, DPSST No. 51116; Oregon State Police – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 19, 2026.

I.  Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

• • Gregory Rice – Oregon Sheriff's Jail Command Council. Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.
  • Josh Aldrich – Oregon Sheriff's Jail Command Council. Re-appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 28, 2026.
  • Michael Mays – Non-Management Corrections Officer. Appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 25, 2026.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

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

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

A. Casey Pitney, PS No. 105268

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

B. Ronald Riebel, PI No. 038063

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

C. Wayne Yu, PS No. 077282

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

D. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0125

Adopting Rule Changes for Private Security Professional Applicants with Prior Law Enforcement Experience (House Bill 2183)

E. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee

• • James Odd – Private Investigator Recommended by the Oregon State Bar. Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.

6. DPSST Recommendations (The following items to be ratified by one vote each)

a. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527

     Presented by Michael Holsapple

b. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527/Senate Bill 300

    Presented by Michael Holsapple

7. Annual Director's Evaluation – Chair Codding 

8. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle

9. Next Meeting Date: July 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on April 23, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 am. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 2 and March 4, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Kathy McAlpine

4. Sergeant Brian Gaunt (DPSST #37820); Beaverton Police Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

   Presented by Kathy McAlpine

5. Sergeant Andrew Borland (DPSST #33715); Linn County Sheriff's Office; Initial Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

6. Next meeting – July 23, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

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, April 22, 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 February 25, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Jose Prado Nuci, DPSST No. 67179; Malheur County Sheriff's Office

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – May 20, 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.

Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed April 12–18, 2026, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Oregon, recognizing the dedicated 9-1-1 professionals who serve as the first point of contact during emergencies and help save lives every day.

During this week, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) proudly recognizes the state’s public safety telecommunicators, call takers and dispatchers who support Oregon’s statewide 9-1-1 system behind the scenes.

Often called the first first responders, telecommunicators provide calm, clear guidance during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives—whether helping someone perform CPR, coordinating emergency response to wildfires, or ensuring help reaches rural communities during severe weather.

Highlighting OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program Team

OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program plays a critical role in supporting Oregon’s 40 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which provide 9-1-1 coverage across all 36 counties.

Behind every answered call is a network of professionals who help ensure the system works seamlessly. OEM’s 9-1-1 team:

• Distributes Emergency Communications Tax funding
• Manages the statewide 9-1-1 network infrastructure
• Supports technology upgrades at local 9-1-1 centers
• Provides coordination, financial support and technical assistance
• Works with telecommunications providers to ensure calls are routed correctly
• Supports modernization of Oregon’s emergency communications systems

Their work ensures that when someone dials 9-1-1 anywhere in Oregon, help can be reached quickly and reliably.

Supporting 9-1-1 Through GIS and Technology

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play an increasingly important role in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system. Accurate mapping data helps ensure emergency calls are routed to the correct 9-1-1 center and provides responders with better situational awareness.

OEM works closely with GIS professionals and local jurisdictions to improve location data, mapping accuracy, and system integration as part of the state’s emergency communications modernization efforts.

GIS supports 9-1-1 operations by helping:

• Improve caller location accuracy
• Support faster call routing
• Enhance emergency response mapping tools
• Strengthen situational awareness during disasters
• Support Next Generation 9-1-1 capabilities

Modernizing Oregon’s 9-1-1 System

Oregon continues to invest in modernization efforts to prepare for the future of emergency communications through the transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1).

Oregon 9-1-1 centers presently receive text messaging this transition will allow 9-1-1 centers to eventually receive additional data types such as images, video, and improved location information, helping telecommunicators and responders better understand emergencies as they unfold.

OEM’s State 9-1-1 Program continues to support PSAPs through this transition by coordinating network upgrades, supporting equipment replacement, and helping local agencies prepare for emerging technologies.

A Legacy of Service

Oregon’s State 9-1-1 Program was established by the Oregon Legislature in 1981 to ensure uniform and efficient access to emergency services statewide.

Oregon began to implement statewide Enhanced 9-1-1 service for wireline communications in 2000, allowing call takers to receive Automatic Number Identification (ANI) and Automatic Location Identification (ALI) information. This advancement significantly improved emergency response by providing callback numbers and caller location data.

Today, OEM continues building on that legacy by supporting wireless, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and emerging communication technologies to ensure reliable access to emergency services.

Answer the Call: Careers in 9-1-1

Oregon is also actively assisting in the recruitment of the next generation of 9-1-1 professionals. The state’s 40 PSAPs regularly have career openings for individuals interested in serving their communities in this critical role.

Being a 9-1-1 dispatcher requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. It is a challenging and rewarding career where professionals make a real difference every day.

Those interested in exploring careers in Oregon’s 9-1-1 system can learn more at https://www.oregon.gov/oem/911/pages/911-jobs.aspx

Thank You to Oregon’s Telecommunicators

During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, OEM encourages all Oregonians to recognize the vital contributions of the professionals who answer the call—24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion help keep Oregon communities safe.

To Oregon’s public safety telecommunicators: thank you for answering the call.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) announced today that it has issued an order of supervision to ATRIO Health Plans, Inc., because of concerns over ATRIO’s financial condition. The company has suffered excessive operating losses over the past 12 months. Additionally, the financial condition of the company has created a claims backlog that has caused provider payments to go unpaid. As the solvency regulator, this situation has caused DFR to take this action.

As of March 2026, ATRIO enrolled a total of about 35,340 Oregonians in its Medicare Advantage plans. The enrollees are in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill counties.

An order of supervision allows DFR to have a representative on site and in control of all financial decisions to ensure that consumers are protected. The order prohibits ATRIO and its directors, officers, agents, employees, and others affiliated with the company from taking several actions, including withdrawing from any of ATRIO’s bank accounts; lending or investing any of ATRIO’s funds; transferring any of ATRIO’s property; incurring any debt, obligation, or liability of behalf of ATRIO; merging or consolidating with any other insurer or person; approving any new premium or renewing any policies; terminating, surrendering, forfeiting, converting, or lapsing any insurance policy, certificate, or contract, except for nonpayment; and releasing, paying, or refunding premium deposits, unearned premiums, or other reserves on any insurance policy, certificate, or contract.

The supervision order is available here.

DFR took this action because of ATRIO’s excessive operating losses, and inadequate capital and surplus. Capital and surplus is the amount a company’s assets exceed its liabilities.

Consumers with questions about Medicare can find help from the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or at shiba.oregon.gov. More information can be found on DFR’s website.

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been made aware of the order and more information for enrollees may be forthcoming from that federal agency. DFR regulates the financial condition of carriers, while CMS is responsible for operating the Medicare Advantage program.

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

Tillamook State Forest, Ore.—Oregon’s state forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife including two threatened bird species, the northern spotted owl and the marbled murrelet.  As part of the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) compliance with the federal and state endangered species acts, ODF surveys where these species are and develops a plan to protect and enhance their habitat.

“Right now, we use call-back surveys to determine where spotted owls are,” said Mike Davis, an ODF state forest biologist. “As the name implies, we go out in the forest and broadcast owl calls and wait for them to respond, following a protocol accepted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).” The USFWS administers the Endangered Species Act and monitors compliance with it.

Most of the field call-back survey work is done by contract biologists and has some limitations.

“For owls, the surveys are conducted at night and typically for just that one night at each location,” said Davis. “There are safety concerns too: driving dark gravel forest roads, hiking into the mature forest stands where owls typically are without any trails, and traversing steep, rugged terrain. Then standing or hiking for hours, oftentimes in the rain.  It is not easy work nor a fun experience some nights.”

Another recent concern that limits the effectiveness of call-back surveys is the encroachment of the invasive barred owl into traditional spotted owl areas.

“The barred owls are basically bullying the northern spotted owls out of their preferred habitat,” said Davis. “We are seeing spotted owls at atypical higher elevations now and calling back less and less because that call alerts barred owls to their location.”

This makes the call-back protocols less effective and had ODF looking for better methods to survey the birds.

“In 2022 we started experimenting with Autonomous Recording Units (ARUs),” said Davis. 

ARUs are devices that automatically record environmental sounds such as bird calls, frog choruses, or other wildlife vocalizations over extended periods without the need to have a human present.

“ARUs have many advantages,” said Davis. “They can be left out in the field several weeks or more, set up and retrieved from the field anytime, record multiple species, and can be analyzed back in the office.”

The units are designed similar to a trail camera, but instead of a camera they have a microphone. They also run on batteries and have removable memory cards.

 “We bring the cards back to our office and run specialized software that processes the audio recordings,” said Davis. “It converts the sound waves into spectrograms, which are visual representations of frequency over time. Each species’ calls produce distinct patterns on these images, allowing software to identify and differentiate vocalizations.”

ODF is optimistic ARUs could save on survey costs too.

“We spend roughly $2 million a year on northern spotted owl surveys and another $500,000 on marbled murrelets,” said Corey Grinnell, Biological Support Unit Manager for ODF’s State Forest Division. “ARUs with rechargeable batteries, memory cards and the software costs are coming in the $600-$700 range per device.”

ODF currently has 23 ARUs but plans to deploy more and move away from sole reliance on call-back surveys.

“We are waiting for the USFWS to approve a final protocol for using ARUs,” said Grinnell.  “Once that happens, we can integrate them more into our management plans.”

Another big change for the biologists will be state forests moving to a new Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) that is expected to be approved by the USFWS and NOAA Fisheries later this year after a several years-long development and approval process. The HCP will give ODF 70 years of certainty in how ODF manages for 17 terrestrial and aquatic species, including northern spotted owls and marbled murrelets, as it manages state forests.

“The entire point of the HCP is to keep this working forest working,” said Grinnell.

The HCP combined with improving technology has the potential to give managers better data to better manage the forests. State forests by law must provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to Oregonians.

“Our goal is to create healthy productive forests, high-quality habitat for native fish and wildlife, clear cool water, benefits and revenues to rural communities and timber related economies, as well as recreation and educational opportunities,” said Grinnell. “To do that we embrace cutting edge technology to improve our data in the most cost-effective way.  “ARUs are one tool to do that. We are always on the lookout for better, faster, cheaper ways to get biological data to help us make the best management decisions.”

For more on Oregon’s state forests see: Oregon Department of Forestry : State forests : Forest resources : State of Oregon

FAIRVIEW, Ore. –The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) announced this month that the City of Fairview has become Oregon’s newest Tree City USA community. ODF administers the Tree City USA program in Oregon, which is sponsored by the national Arbor Day Foundation.

The program recognizes cities that manage public trees according to best practices and work to improve their urban canopy. To qualify, towns must meet four core standards: maintaining a tree board or department, establishing a tree care ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry activities, and celebrating Arbor Day. Over 3,600 communities nationwide are recognized, including 69 in Oregon.

Located in eastern Multnomah County just east of Gresham, Fairview has about 11,000 residents. Incorporated in 1908, the community has transitioned from farming to mainly residential and commercial. Almost one in four residents speaks a language other than English at home. About one resident in eight is foreign born.

Fairview Mayor Keith Kudrna said of earning the designation, “The City Council is excited to put the Tree City USA designation into action by supporting the care and planting of our public trees, including street trees. We see this less as a recognition than a commitment to enhance our city’s tree infrastructure for the long-term benefit of our community.”

ODF Community Assistance Forester Allison O’Sullivan said Fairview’s city staff have worked diligently to meet the qualifications to become a Tree City USA.

“They have a very active Community Development Department and supportive City Council, who understand the importance of looking after and expanding their tree canopy to ensure a healthy, thriving community and to work towards resiliency in the face of a hotter, drier climate and new pests and diseases,” said O’Sullivan.

She cited these examples:

The City of Fairview’s Tree Technical Work Group is working in collaboration with ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) team to review and update Fairview’s tree lists and tree ordinance.

This effort is being led by Sarah Selden, Fairview’s Community Development Director, in an effort to make the tree lists more accessible and the tree ordinance more aligned with urban forestry best management practices, such as growing a diverse urban forest.

“Any community can apply to become a Tree City USA, and any school or college can apply to receive Tree Campus Higher Education recognition, programs hosted by the Arbor Day Foundation nationally and administered by the Oregon Department of Forestry locally,” said O’Sullivan. “They can email me at allison.osullivan@odf.oregon.gov and I can answer any questions they might have and walk them through the process.”

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The auto-generated credential functionality for the annual training required for journalists to gain unescorted access to natural disaster scenes is now live. The free, one-hour online training course is provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

If you haven’t renewed your training credentials for this calendar year, complete the training at https://odftraining.thinkific.com/courses/media-access-2026. After you pass the quiz at the end of the course, the system will automatically generate a completion certificate that serves as your proof of training.

Journalists are encouraged to print two copies of their credentials—one to display in their vehicle and another to keep in their wallet—and to save an electronic copy to their phone or computer, just in case.

House Bill 4087 (2022) granted journalists access to certain natural disaster scenes even if a public safety organization escort is unavailable. The bill’s access provisions apply specifically to natural disaster scenes on non-federal public lands that are also closed to the public due to the disaster.

The HB 4087 guidelines created by a joint committee of public safety and media representatives provide additional important information including personal protective equipment requirements and circumstances when access may be denied.

For more information about HB 4087 and media access to natural disasters in Oregon, check out these resources from the Safe Media Access to Disaster Sites Committee and the Oregon Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. 

Oregon taxpayers have until midnight Wednesday, April 15, 2026 to file their tax year 2025 federal and state personal income tax returns and the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to remind taxpayers of information and options that can make the last-minute filing experience less stressful.

You must file a return to get your kicker

In 2026, Oregon is returning $1.41 billion in revenue above projections to taxpayers in the form of a “kicker” tax credit. The kicker is a refundable credit that will either increase a taxpayer's Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using the What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.

Where’s my refund?

Through Friday, the Department of Revenue has processed 1.5 million of an expected 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns.

Taxpayers can check the status of their Oregon state income tax refund using Revenue’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department recommends logging in to your Revenue Online account to access enhanced tool features.

Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website.

Filing last-minute paper returns

Due to changes to US Postal Service processes in recent years, taxpayers dropping paper returns into a US Postal Service mailbox at this late date can’t be certain that their returns will be postmarked by the due date.

Taxpayers who want to mail their return can take their return to a USPS office during regular business hours no later than April 15, 2026 and make an in-person request to have their return manually postmarked at the counter before mailing it.

Revenue staff will be on hand in the lobby of the Revenue headquarters building in Salem to accept and date stamp returns for taxpayers 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Tax Day, Wednesday, April 15. Taxpayers can also hand deliver their returns to DOR Regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland during regular business hours. For federal returns, taxpayers should seek a hand-stamped postmark at their local post office.

After hours, paper Oregon personal income tax returns can be deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Salem office; on the west side of the Portland State Office Building; or outside the DOR offices in Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box inside DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.

The department doesn’t recommend using the state drop boxes for federal returns. Paper federal returns should be sent to the IRS. Federal returns dropped in the DOR drop boxes are date stamped and forwarded to the IRS, but the Department of Revenue can’t guarantee that the IRS will accept them as having been filed on time.

Free e-filing options and tax preparation help

Taxpayers can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and then use Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state through Revenue Online. Other free electronic filing options are available for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.

Public computer kiosks for filing taxes with Direct File Oregon and free fillable forms are available in department regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland.

From IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites to Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) or AARP Foundation TaxAide locations, Oregon taxpayers needing free assistance can find free tax assistance sites near them on the Department of Revenue Department’s interactive map or through the United Way’s MyFreeTaxes program.

Filing an extension.

Individuals who are not able to file by midnight Wednesday can file an extension directly with the Oregon Department of Revenue or with the IRS. If the IRS extension is granted, the Oregon extension is automatically granted. A timely filed extension moves the federal tax filing deadline and the Oregon filing deadline to October 15, 2026.

Taxpayers should only request an Oregon extension if they:

• Don’t have a federal extension,
• Owe Oregon taxes, and
• Can’t file their return by April 15, 2026.

Remember that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay any tax owed. Taxpayers who can’t pay the full amount they owe should pay what they can to avoid late payment penalties.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026

Contact Information:

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

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged at 5.2% in February

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in both February and January. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.4% in February and 4.3% in January.

In February, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 5,400 jobs, following a gain of 1,600 jobs, as revised, in January. February’s gains were largest in financial activities (+800 jobs). Losses were largest in transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-1,600 jobs); leisure and hospitality (-1,500); and professional and business services (-1,300).

Financial activities added 800 jobs in February, which was a rare monthly gain for the industry after persistent declines over the past three years. It employed 99,800 in February, which was down 1,100 jobs, or -1.1%, since February 2025.

Transportation, warehousing, and utilities employment was choppy in recent months, cutting 1,600 jobs in February following a gain of 1,500 in January. It employed 78,400 in February, which was 400 jobs, or 0.5%, above its year-ago level and close to its average employment throughout much of the past five years.

Leisure and hospitality cut 1,500 jobs in February following a gain of 1,200 in January. During the prior three years, it was remarkably steady, averaging just over 207,000 jobs.

Professional and business services continued its downtrend of the past three years, cutting 1,300 jobs in February and another 2,000 jobs in January. In the most recent 12 months, it cut 8,700 jobs, or 3.4%. Since February 2025, each of its three component industries contracted by more than 2%: administrative and waste services (-4,200 jobs, or -4.3%); professional and technical services (-3,200 jobs, or -2.9%); and management of companies and enterprises (-1,300 jobs, or -2.7%).

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the February county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Tuesday, April 21, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for March on Friday, May 1. 

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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April 16, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Gresham college setting becomes latest measles exposure location

Health officials urge people who were at the location during exposure period to talk to a health care provider

PORTLAND, Ore.—A new measles exposure location has been identified in Gresham, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah County public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following location at this date and time: 

• Mt Hood Community College, Gresham Campus Academic Center Building 17, main level, 26000 SE Stark St., Gresham, between 10 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. Monday, April 13.

People who were at this location during this date and time period should immediately contact a health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine whether you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment.

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with 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 can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.  The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household 

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they: 

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptoms of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).

Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.

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April 16, 2026

Contact: Amy Coven, 503-943-0164, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace Annual Report Highlights Coverage Trends and Affordability for 2026

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace released its 2025 Annual Report today, highlighting new insights into affordability trends for 2026 marketplace coverage.

Among the report’s key findings, average monthly premiums after financial assistance increased significantly to $426, compared with $272 in 2025. At the same time, individuals receiving financial assistance in 2026 received an average of $525 per month in premium tax credits, slightly lower than the $531 average in 2025.

These changes reflect shifting affordability dynamics for consumers and underscore the continued importance of financial assistance in maintaining access to coverage, particularly as premiums rise.

The report also notes that overall enrollment and the number of individuals receiving financial assistance declined in 2026 compared to 2025. This decrease is largely attributed to the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, which had previously helped lower costs and expand access to coverage.

The full Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace 2025 Annual Report is available at orhim.info/2025Report.

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What is the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace?

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov. For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

16 de abril de 2026

Contacto: Amy Coven, 503-943-0164, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov

El Reporte Anual del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon Destaca las Tendencias de Cobertura y la Asequibilidad para 2026 

SALEM, Ore. – El Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon publicó su reporte anual de 2025 destacando nuevos datos sobre las tendencias de costos para la cobertura del Mercado en 2026.

Entre los hallazgos principales del reporte, las primas mensuales promedio después de la ayuda financiera aumentaron significativamente a $426, en comparación con $272 en 2025. Al mismo tiempo, las personas que recibieron ayuda financiera en 2026 obtuvieron un promedio de $525 al mes en créditos fiscales para las primas, un poco menos del promedio de $531 en 2025.

Estos cambios reflejan el cambio en la dinámica de la asequibilidad para los consumidores y subrayan la importancia que sigue teniendo la ayuda financiera para mantener el acceso a la cobertura, especialmente a medida que aumentan las primas.

El reporte también indica que la inscripción total y el número de personas que reciben ayuda financiera disminuyeron en 2026 en comparación con 2025. Esta reducción se debe en gran parte al vencimiento de los créditos fiscales mejorados para primas, los cuales previamente habían contribuido a reducir los costos y a ampliar el acceso a la cobertura.

El reporte anual completo del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon de 2025 está disponible en orhim.info/2025ReportSP.

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¿Qué es el Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon?

El Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon, que forma parte del gobierno estatal, ayuda a las personas a obtener un seguro de salud cuando no tienen cobertura en el trabajo y no califican para el Plan de Salud de Oregon (OHP) u otro programa. El Mercado es el socio a nivel estatal de CuidadoDeSalud.gov. Para obtener más información visite CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov.

April 14, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA adds date to Centennial Middle School measles exposure list

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah County public health officials have identified another date on which people may have been exposed to measles at Centennial Middle School in southeast Portland.

People might have been exposed to measles if they were at Centennial Middle School, 17650 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Friday, April 3. Public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed.

The other exposures at Centennial Middle School occurred between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the following dates, as OHA reported earlier today:

• Wednesday, April 1.
• Monday, April 6.
• Tuesday, April 7.
• Wednesday, April 8.
• Thursday, April 9.
• Friday, April 10.

People who were at this location during these dates and time periods should immediately contact your health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine whether you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.

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EDITORS: For video clips of Dr. Dean Sidelinger, state health officer and epidemiologist, discussing measles, visit OHA’s media kit page, or the YouTube recording of OHA’s April 3 media briefing.

April 14, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon City health setting is latest measles exposure location

Health officials urge people who were at location during exposure periods to talk to a health care provider

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Clackamas County public health officials have identified a new measles exposure location at a health setting in Oregon City and are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following location at these dates and times: 

• Legacy GoHealth, 1900 McLoughlin Blvd., Suite 67, Oregon City, between 9:09 a.m. and 12:22 p.m. Friday, April 10.
• Legacy GoHealth, 1900 McLoughlin Blvd., Suite 67, Oregon City, between 1:12 p.m. and 3:48 p.m. Saturday, April 11.

People who were at this location during these dates and time periods should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine whether you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.

OHA has been made aware of news outlets that have recently shared inaccurate information about measles exposure locations, including listing locations where exposures have not taken place. Visit OHA’s measles website for the current, accurate list of exposure locations.  

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with 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 can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal. The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).

Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.

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April 14, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Measles exposure location confirmed at Centennial Middle School in southeast Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. – A new measles exposure location has been identified, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah County public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following location at these dates and times:

• Centennial Middle School, 17650 SE Brooklyn St., Portland
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 1.
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, April 6.
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 7.
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 8.
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, April 9.
  • Between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. Friday, April 10.

People who were at this location during these dates and time periods should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine whether you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment.

OHA has been made aware of news outlets that have recently shared inaccurate information about measles exposure locations, including listing locations where exposures have not taken place. Visit OHA’s measles website for the current, accurate list of exposure locations.

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with 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 can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal. The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1.Have a measles-like rash, or

2.Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).

Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.

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April 10, 2026

Contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539

Oregon organizations awarded federal funding to improve rural healthcare

Future Rural Health Transformation Program opportunities include May 26 proposal deadline

VIDEO: OHA Health Policy & Analytics Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel discusses the latest from Oregon's Rural Health Transformation Program.

SALEM, Ore. – A dozen projects – offering training for healthcare professionals, mental health and substance use prevention at schools, support for people managing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and much more – are the first in Oregon that are expected to receive federal Rural Health Transformation Program funding.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is also preparing to release additional funding in the coming months. Details on future funding opportunities – including one that has a May 26 proposal deadline – are provided below.

“Where you live shouldn't determine whether you get quality health services," said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi. “These projects show what's possible when rural communities lead, and OHA is committed to helping them turn homegrown solutions into lasting impact."

The 12 projects are expected to collectively receive up to $6.5 million this year. To quickly bring much-needed support to promising, ready-to-go projects, OHA is directly providing this specific pool of rural health funding, which OHA has named Immediate Impact Awards. The organizations that are expected to receive this direct funding are listed below. OHA expects to determine the exact funding for individual projects by May, after budget negotiations are completed.

“These early projects will help Oregon's Rural Health Transformation Program succeed in its first year, building a solid foundation upon which we can meaningfully improve rural healthcare access for years to come," said OHA Health Policy & Analytics Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel.

The Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon are also expected to receive a total of $21.7 million this year through the program's Tribal Initiative, which aims to improve Tribal healthcare access and health outcomes in rural and remote Tribal communities based on each individual Tribe's identified needs. OHA partnered with Tribal representatives to create this initiative while honoring Oregon's government-to-government relationship with the Tribes.

Project proposals accepted through May 26

Through May 26, eligible organizations can also propose their innovative projects for a competitive Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program funding pool known as the Catalyst Awards. OHA expects to grant a total of about $80 million per year for up to two years, pending federal approval, toward Catalyst Award-supported projects. Up to 80 proposals will be funded by early July through this opportunity.

Catalyst Awards will be given to projects that are ready to launch within two months of receiving funding and address at least one of the following areas: maternal and child health; co-occurring behavioral health conditions; aging in place; and chronic disease. More information about the application process is on the OHA Rural Health Transformation Program webpage

In addition to the Catalyst Awards, OHA plans to further award federal funding to hospitals, health clinics and local public health authorities to help rural Oregon improve access to critical services during a time of tremendous change and challenge in healthcare. To further support the Rural Health Transformation Program's goals, OHA expects to direct a total of $50.4 million this year by late summer.

• Each of the state's 35 rural hospitals can receive direct grants, with a total of $35 million expected to be provided this year.
• Each rural health clinic can receive direct grants, with a total of $10 million expected to be provided this year. Oregon currently has 100 certified rural health clinics.
• Each of the state's 33 local public health authorities – most of which are county health departments – can receive funding, with a total of $5 million expected to be provided this year.

OHA also plans to partner with the Oregon Office of Rural Health to support this statewide effort by facilitating regional collaboration and providing technical assistance to organizations that are planning or implementing rural health projects.

Community-driven improvement

The Rural Health Transformation Program was created by U.S. House Resolution 1, a federal tax and spending bill that became law in July 2025. While the law will cut an estimated $15 billion in federal funding for Oregon programs that provide health insurance, food benefits and more, it also created this federal program. The Rural Health Transformation Program will distribute a total of $50 billion nationwide between 2026 and 2031. The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services oversees the program.

Oregon is receiving a total of $197.3 million in 2026 and could receive more in the following four years. If the federal government approves Oregon for similar amounts in future years, the state could receive an estimated total of $1 billion through the program. While each state's 2026 funding was announced in late 2025, much of Oregon's funding was restricted and could not be spent until the federal government gave approval on March 19, 2026.

OHA is investing this federal funding in community-driven projects that improve healthcare access, boost chronic disease management and prevention, grow and sustain the healthcare workforce, and expand the use of health technology and data in Oregon's rural and frontier communities. 

Oregon's Rural Health Transformation Program efforts are divided into two phases. In 2026 and 2027, OHA will swiftly support ready-to-go projects while also helping rural-serving organizations strengthen partnerships for the next phase. Between 2028 and 2030, OHA plans to award larger, competitive grants for longer-term regional projects that transform the healthcare system.

# # #

The Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $197,271,577.67, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents of this release are those of OHA and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.

SALEM, Oregon – Individuals, organizations and projects that have made outstanding contributions to preserving Oregon’s heritage will receive Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards April 29 in Mt. Angel.
 

“The Award recipients are representative of efforts and activities that are exemplary and go above and beyond for an individual, organization, and project, serving as a model for heritage preservation work in Oregon,” said Katie Henry, Coordinator for the Oregon Heritage Commission. “This year we had several nominations focused on the work of documenting, preserving, and sharing a more complete story of Oregon’s history.”
 

2026 Oregon Heritage Excellence Award recipients are:

• Oregon Historical Society’s The Yasui Family: An American Story for work spanning years of meticulous preservation, translation, and research culminating in an exhibition and accompanying programs, online resources, and curricula, offering unparalleled windows into the lives of Japanese immigrants and their families in the decades before and after mass incarceration in WWII.
   

• Kathleen Sligar for her outstanding contributions to statewide heritage preservation efforts demonstrating resourcefulness, selflessness, and her deep commitment to supporting and developing the statewide heritage preservation community through mentorship and service.
   

• Mark Prairie Historical Society’s Mark Prairie Schoolhouse Restoration Project, a volunteer led project that took over 4 years and $1.2 million resulting in a restoration that honors the community’s past and authentically showcases the building’s architectural integrity.
   

• Oregon Nisei Veterans WWII Memorial Highway and Historical Marker Project for its grassroots collaboration that culminated in the dedication of a 41-mile stretch of Highway 35 from Government Camp to Hood River as the Oregon Nisei Veterans WWII Memorial Highway and a state-sponsored historical marker telling the story of more than 430 Oregon Nisei who served in World War II, even as many of their families were incarcerated under Executive Order 9066.
   

• Paul Falsetto, a Portland architect with three decades of service, for his quality of rehabilitation work, depth of preservation knowledge, and exemplary dedication to the field of historic preservation in Oregon.
   

• The Japanese American Museum of Oregon’s Japanese American History in Oregon Traveling Trunks project for serving as a critical resource for educators with standards-aligned lessons, primary resources and artifacts, and biographies to bring this essential American story to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for the resilience and contributions of Japanese Americans.
   

• Tim Hills, lead Historian for McMenamin’s, for his dedication to uncovering history and his love of storytelling that made history a foundational pillar of McMenamins. His research and community partner collaboration has influenced the preservation, design, and use of historic buildings and has inspired a culture of appreciating and preserving the past.
   

• Jim Proehl for his dedication to preserving and promoting the history of Bandon through his service to the Bandon Historical society in the forms of leadership, education, communication, collection care, fundraising, and beyond.
   

• Watershed Rock Opera project that went beyond traditional interpretation by transforming lived experience, cultural knowledge, and ecological insight into an original, multimedia rock opera.
   

• Rob McIntyre for his community centered approach and dedication to the preservation and restoration of Athena’s historic Gem Theater and Star Saloon ensuring it will continue to educate, entertain, and inspire for generations to come.
   

• Rainier Oregon Historical Museum for exemplifying the power of volunteerism, vision, and community dedication in the ten years of establishing their organization through partnerships and community outreach resulting in recent completion of a brand new museum building.
   

• Paul Quarino (1942-2024) for his 44 years serving as steward and caretaker of Coos Bay’s Egyptian Theatre’s Mighty Wurlitzer, ensuring that the magic of this 1925 organ – the only theater organ in Oregon in its original location – could be shared with future generations.

Award recipients will be honored and presented with their award on April 29, 7pm-9pm, at the Mt. Angel Festhalle, 500 Wilco Hwy NE, Mt Angel, OR 97362. The Awards Presentation and Dinner is part of the 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference events. Those wanting to attend the Awards event must purchase tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased here.
 

The physical awards presented to recipients are designed and created by Eastern Oregon artist, Alethea Brewer. This year’s awards artist selection process was done in partnership with Crossroads Carnegie Arts Center in Baker City.
 

In addition to the 12 recipients of a 2026 Oregon Heritage Excellence Award, the Oregon Heritage Commission will also be recognizing 12 Standout Heritage Volunteers from heritage organizations across the state and their critical contributions to heritage preservation efforts in Oregon. Learn more about this year’s Standout Heritage Volunteers by visiting www.oregonheritage.org.
 

Following the awards presentation on April 29, videos of the recipients will be available online at www.oregonheritage.org.
 

The Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards are a program of Oregon Heritage. Oregon Heritage is a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department that includes the State Historic Preservation Office and four State Commission/Committees: Oregon Heritage Commission, State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation, Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries, and Historic Advisory Review Committee. 
 

For more information, contact Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or y@oprd.oregon.gov">katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

# # #

WOODBURN, Oregon – The Oregon Heritage Commission and the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet in person and online during the 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference in Woodburn. Both meetings are open to the public and include an opportunity for public comment:

• Oregon Heritage Commission will meet on May 1, 9:30am, at the Woodburn Public Library, 280 Garfield Street in Woodburn and online. Business includes review and adoption of the 2026-2033 Oregon Heritage Plan, review and action on two applications for the Heritage Tradition designation (the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene and the Bandon Cranberry Festival), and a presentation from the OSU Special Collection and Archives Research Center on work related to addressing harmful content in their collections. The full agenda and meeting information can be found here.
   
• Oregon Historic Cemeteries Commission will meet on April 29, 1pm, at the Woodburn Public Library, 280 Garfield Street in Woodburn and online. Business includes a presentation on the compliance program within the State Historic Preservation Office and how cemeteries are involved in state and federal level projects and a presentation on the Shroeder Family Tomb Preservation Project. The full agenda and meeting information can be found here.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For more information about the commissions, visit www.oregonheritage.org.
 

About the Oregon Heritage Commission (OHC)

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

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

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

About the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC)

The OCHC is comprised of seven citizens. It is empowered by the Legislature to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries in Oregon, make recommendations for funding, seek legislative appropriations for historic cemeteries, and assist in the coordination of restoration, renovation and maintenance of historic cemeteries statewide. The commission develops online resources, offers workshops, and promotes the value of historic cemeteries through storytelling.
 

The group meets four times per year in different locations around the state and online. There may be an occasional additional meeting for extra projects, programs, and grant selection. Commissioners are also asked to organize informal meetings in their regions or work on other projects outside of meeting time. Travel costs are reimbursed.
 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about OCHC commission activities or to attend in person, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

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The Oregon State Marine Board will hold its quarterly meeting on April 23, at the Port of Tillamook, 4000 Blimp Blvd., Building #19 in the main conference room, beginning at 8:30 am.

Agenda items include:

• Director’s Report, Informational
• Boating Facility Cycle Two Grant Applications and Grant Cost Increases, Board Consideration
• Siletz Rulemaking, Board Vote                                                                                           
• McGuire Island Pass Through Zone Petition, Board Direction                   
• Legislative Concepts, Board Direction                                                   
• Free Waterway Access Permit Days, Board Direction

Public comments will be accepted in writing or during the meeting’s public comment period before the agenda items. To provide oral testimony, register by 5 p.m., April 21, with Jennifer Cooper at .cooper@boat.oregon.gov?subject=Marine%20Board%20Meeting%3A%20Testimony%20Request">jennifer.cooper@boat.oregon.gov or by mail: Oregon State Marine Board, Attn: Jennifer Cooper, 435 Commercial St. NE, Suite 400, Salem, OR 97301.

Meeting materials and live stream link are available on the agency’s Public Meetings page.

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to an incident on April 9, 2026 in Vancouver.

This individual died on 04/09/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Peters, Naomi Lealani   Age: 33 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple sharp force injuries

Manner of death:  Homicide

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

Place of injury: Decedent’s residence

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

Media release issue date: 04/15/2026

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will continue their four-part series on mobility at its April meeting.  The COA welcomes professionals from the Community in Motion and the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington for a discussion about mobility challenges and solutions for older adults.

The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 20, 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. - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. In addition, the cities of Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Washougal, Woodland and Yacolt are also updating their comprehensive plans.

Three land use alternatives were studied for the cities referenced above and the county in a draft environmental impact statement (EIS) that was the subject of a 60-day review and public comment period which ended on Nov. 30, 2025. The City of Vancouver is also updating its Comprehensive Plan and is preparing separate environmental documentation.

County Council has scheduled a public hearing to take public testimony and select a preferred land use alternative. A final EIS will be prepared on the selected alternative.

The hearing will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 4 p.m. in a hybrid format. The hearing will continue, if necessary, at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor hearing room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex. Information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the council’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.

Proposed mapping and related information is available at https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate. The staff report and related materials will be available 15 days prior to the hearing date on the county's website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update-meeting-and-event-information. Copies are also available by request to Jose Alvarez, Jose.Alvarez@clark.wa.gov, 564-397-4898. For other formats, contact the Clark County ADA Office at ADA@clark.wa.gov, voice 564-397-2322, Relay 711 or 800-833-6388, Fax 564-397-6165.

Written comments for the hearing can be submitted via the county website at https://www.clark.wa.gov/councilors/public-comment. Written public comments may be submitted between 8 a.m. April 10, 2026, and by the end of the hearing on April 28, 2026. Comments can also be read into the record. Instructions are available on the county website at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.

Staff would appreciate receiving written testimony at least 24 hours before the hearing to ensure that it is forwarded to the Councilors prior to the hearing. Written testimony may also be submitted for the record during the hearing.

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate.

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, April 20, 6:00 pm, at Washougal Community Center. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. Agenda.
You can view the agenda and meeting materials at: https://www.fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/ 

GRESHAM, Ore.— The City of Gresham invites the community for a story time reading with Gresham police and firefighters. Enjoy refreshments, explore Fire Station 73, and learn about the ways the Fire and Police Levy is making a positive impact on emergency and public safety services for our community.

What: Gresham Fire Station Open House & Story Time

Where: Fire Station 73, 2301 SW Pleasant View Dr., Gresham, OR 97080

When: Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. – noon

Each story time will feature a picture book for younger audiences, and there will be fun activities for older children. Attendees are also encouraged to check out public safety vehicles and equipment, as well as chat with police and firefighters about what it means to serve the Gresham community.

"We are committed to building as many opportunities for our residents to stay connected with us as possible," says Gresham Fire Chief Jeffrey Hairston. "These open houses are a great way to bring the community together for some fun and allow us to share important updates about their fire and police departments."

This open house opportunity is the third in a series of four engagements the City is hosting at Gresham fire stations through spring 2026. The next Fire Station Open House is currently scheduled for Saturday, May 30 at Fire Station 72. More information on these and other Gresham events can be found at GreshamOregon.gov/events.

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About Gresham:   

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov

GRESHAM, Ore.— After an extensive search and first round interview process led by professional recruitment firm Prothman Company, Mayor Travis Stovall, Council President Cathy Keathley and the Gresham City Council have named two finalists for the City Manager position.
 

To ensure City Council captures the community's voice in this process, the City of Gresham will host a meet and greet event with the finalists on Monday, April 20, from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at Gresham City Hall, located at 1333 NW Eastman Parkway. City staff and the Gresham community are invited to attend this event to meet the finalists in an informal setting, ask questions, and share perspectives.
 

"We are grateful to have had a group of strong, diverse candidates apply and believe we have two very strong finalists that will help us move the city forward," said Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall. "We want this to be a transparent process and, ultimately, have City Council's difficult decision be informed by our community."
 

The finalists for the City Manager position are:

• Teresa Carr: Carr has been with the Port of Portland since 2000. Currently, she serves as the Director of Marine and Commercial Development. Carr’s previous leadership roles with the Port include Director of Commercial Real Estate from 2020-2025, Director of Economic and Business Development from 2017-2020, and General Manager of Real Estate and Progressive Leadership Roles from 2000-2017. Carr has a Master of Public Administration degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations, both from Valdosta State University.
   
• Rachael Fuller: Fuller has more than 20 years of local government experience. Since 2024, she has served in contract and interim assignments, which have included Interim City Manager for the City of Fairview. She was Interim Assistant County Administrator for Washington County from 2021-2023, City Manager for the City of Hood River from 2018-2021, and was with the City of Gresham from 2012-2018, serving as Assistant City Manager for four years. Fuller has a Master of Public Administration degree and a bachelor’s degree in biology.

The City of Gresham began its search for a new city manager in late January, following current City Manager Eric Schmidt's retirement announcement in December 2025. Schmidt will formally retire after more than 28 years with the City on June 30, 2026.

#     #     #

About Gresham:   

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov.

Today, the City of Happy Valley, in partnership with the Oregon National Guard, Clackamas Fire, National Charity League, Boys Team Charity, and dedicated community volunteers, are actively working at Happy Valley Nature Park/Mt. Scott Nature Trail to reduce wildfire risk ahead of the summer season.

This effort is supported by a Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office (OSFM) and focuses on removing hazardous vegetation in steep, densely wooded areas of the park. Crews are clearing invasive species such as blackberries, trimming low-hanging branches, and thinning young trees that create “ladder fuels,” which can allow fire to rapidly climb from the ground into the tree canopy and intensify.

Work is concentrated along the park’s edges near residential neighborhoods, where crews are creating a 15–20 foot defensible space buffer to help slow or stop the spread of wildfire. These proactive measures are designed to better protect nearby homes, improve access for emergency responders, and strengthen the community’s overall resilience during the upcoming wildfire season.

This effort reflects the strength of a community working together, demonstrating how partnerships, volunteerism, and shared responsibility play a critical role in reducing wildfire risk and building a safer, more resilient Happy Valley.

“This is a great example of what can be accomplished when partners and volunteers come together with a shared goal of keeping our community safe,” said Steve Campbell, Director of Public Safety for the City of Happy Valley.  “By taking action now, we are reducing risk and helping ensure Happy Valley is better prepared for the months ahead.”

Media are welcome on-site today to observe the work in progress, capture visuals of crews operating in steep terrain, and speak with project partners about the importance of wildfire preparedness and prevention.  The event will be taking place from 8am-5pm.  

For more information or to coordinate interviews, please contact Steve Campbell at  971-563-4641 or stevec@happyvalleyor.gov.

Events and Activities Celebrate Local History

Salem, Ore. – May is Historic Preservation Month, and the Salem Historic Landmarks Commission is hosting several events and activities to celebrate Salem's history including walking tours, educational events and a historic photo contest.
 

How to Participate

Local Historic Preservation Month activities include:

• Historic Landmarks Commission ‘Hidden History’ Photo Contest Annual city-wide contest invites photographers to photograph buildings, features and places that are important to Salem’s history. Submissions are due by April 30.
   
• April 29 – May 2 Oregon Heritage Conference ‘Weaving Community Heritage’ in Woodburn Conference focuses on all sectors of cultural heritage, such as historic preservation, museums, archives, libraries, Main Streets, historic cemeteries, archaeology, Tribes, genealogy, public history and local, state and federal government. Learn more online.
   
• May 9, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Window Workshop at Pringle Community Hall Workshop focuses on repair and preservation of historic wood windows. Window experts will provide demonstrations and answer questions. Ideal for homeowners, preservation professionals, contractors, or those interested in learning traditional restoration techniques. Free event. Register online.
   
• May 14, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Downtown Walking Tour Informative walking tour of downtown Salem to learn about the hidden history behind Salem’s commercial and theater district. Free event. Register online.
   
• May 27, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Willamette Heritage Center Speaker Series Historical Preservation Presentation by Charles F. Sams II ‘By Understanding Our Past, We Better Understand Ourselves: Preserving Our History & Stories for Generations to Come’. $12/person. Purchase tickets online.
   

Learn More

For more information about historic preservation in Salem, visit the Historic Landmarks Commission web page or call 503-540-2417.

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Key Highlights of the FY27 Proposed Budget

• Long-Term Fiscal Health: In all, the City’s FY27 Proposed Budget represents $816.1 million supporting over 550 specific programs, and is set to begin on July 1, 2026. The budget represents a single fiscal year, developed within the context of the City’s multi-year financial forecast, ensuring our decisions support Salem’s long-term fiscal health. The proposed budget achieves balance through FY 2028 and remains within the City Council’s General Fund balance policy.
• Community Priorities: The voter-approved 2025 Livability Levy continues to play a critical role in restoring and maintaining library services, protecting parks and recreation and supporting senior programs at Center 50+.
• Public Safety Focus: The budget prioritizes emergency services, including Police, Fire and 9-1-1 operations, with an operating budget of $225.8 million, representing 27.7 percent of the total budget.

Strategic Initiatives for FY 2027

1. Pilot Programs: The City is expanding its use of pilot programs to test and refine services on a small scale before expanding. For FY2027, the City proposes extending the Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem pilot; implementing a new approach to reduce substance use and enhance community health through Prevent, Treat and Enforce initiative; and piloting downtown community policing funded by paid on-street parking.
2. Efficiency, Improving Operations and Cost Savings: Building on prior efforts, the City made targeted adjustments and cost containment measures to meet the City Council fund balance policy through FY 2028 by:
   1. Reducing department budgets by a total of $150,000 annually;
   2. Altering positions in the Fire Department to support training capacity and reduce overtime; and 
   3. Adjusting non-represented employee share of health insurance premiums from 5 to 10 percent.
3. Focus on Communications and Community Engagement: To advance City Council priorities and respond to performance audit findings, the City is making thoughtful adjustments to staffing and organizational structure to strengthen communications, Council support and community engagement.

How to Get Involved

April 15, 2026, at 6 p.m. 

• City Manager presents Proposed FY 2027 Budget
• Welcoming and Livable Community, Natural Environmental Stewardship result areas

April 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. 

• Capital Improvement Program public hearing
• Strong and Diverse Economy and Urban Renewal Agency, Safe Reliable and Efficient Infrastructure result areas

April 29, 2026, at 6 p.m. 

• State Revenue Public Hearing 
• Safe Community, Good Governance result areas

May 6, 2026, at 6 p.m. 

• Recommendation of FY 2027 Budget to City Council and Urban Renewal Agency

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Date: 4/15/2026

Megan George
Deputy City Manager
503-691-3065
ge@tualatin.gov">mgeorge@tualatin.gov

Save the Date for Mayor Bubenik’s Final State of the City Address on May 19

TUALATIN, OR — The City of Tualatin invites community members to save the date for the 2026 State of the City event on Tuesday, May 19, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport.

This year’s event will feature Mayor Frank Bubenik’s final State of the City address, reflecting on the many projects, partnerships, and accomplishments achieved during his time in office. The evening will celebrate progress across the community and look ahead to Tualatin’s future.

“Serving the Tualatin community has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Mayor Frank Bubenik. “I look forward to sharing the incredible progress we’ve made together and celebrating the partnerships that continue to make Tualatin such a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and connect.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with neighbors, community leaders, and city staff while enjoying hors d'oeuvres and refreshments.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
• Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm
• Location: The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport
  7265 SW Hazel Fern Road, Tualatin, OR

We look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate Tualatin’s achievements and continued growth.

For more information, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov

More than 1,500 volunteers contributed their time in 2025 to city events, programs, and initiatives.   

Tualatin, OR – City volunteers provide a tremendous benefit to the Tualatin community every year. Volunteers plant trees and remove invasive species, lead storytime at the Tualatin Public Library, and bring the fun factor to many of our beloved community events. In 2025, volunteers contributed more than 14,500 hours of service to this community.
 

On April 13, 2026, the Tualatin City Council recognized April 19 – 25, 2026, as National Volunteer Appreciation Week. They also announced the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers of the Year.
 

Outstanding Adult Volunteer: Rachel Elliot

Rachel is a long-term Tualatin resident, living here for over 20 years. She began volunteering for the city by picking up litter along the Tualatin River Greenway Trail – an area she knows better than most because she walks nearly every day!

Over time, Rachel began focusing her talents and energy on the Tualatin Public Library. Rachel is a member of the Friends of the Tualatin Public Library, which is a nonprofit that supports the library through fundraising and advocacy. The City Council also appointed Rachel to serve on the Library Advisory Committee. Rachel is a vital team member and leader in these all-volunteer groups and volunteered for over 175 hours in 2025.

Outstanding Youth Volunteer: Nestor Sanchez Carmona

Nestor contributed more than 140 hours in 2025 by serving as the youth representative on the Library Advisory Committee as well as at community events like ¡Viva Tualatin! and the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. He has also supported many a storytime in Tualatin’s parks during the summer months. The dedication of time is impressive, but what’s most impressive about Nestor is his genuine love of helping others.

“I’m so impressed by Nestor,” reports Tualatin Library Director Jerianne Thompson. “At every Library Advisory Committee meeting, Nestor showed up, stepped up, and spoke up. He has a friendly, easy-going demeanor and is well liked by other committee members.”

Outstanding Youth Volunteer: Cosimah Slider

You can hardly turn a corner without bumping into Cosi – she is a positive force in our community! Cosi started volunteering with the city in 2023 and has been most active as the youth representative on various committees, including the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access Advisory Committee, Parks Advisory Committee, Downtown Revitalization Community Advisory Committee, and Youth Advisory Council. In 2025, Cosi volunteered for over 90 hours.

Cosi’s most notable feature is her whirlwind energy and determination to make things better for youth in Tualatin. City Councilor Christen Sacco said, “I am honored to have the opportunity to work alongside such an amazing young person. Cosi is engaged and brings informed perspectives and insightful questions to every meeting. Her spirit is infectious and I know she will grow into an extraordinary leader.”

Outstanding Volunteer Group: Teen Library Committee

The Teen Library Committee was created to ensure that teens have a meaningful voice in shaping the programs and activities for teens at the Tualatin Public Library. By empowering youth to take an active role in program development, the committee fosters creativity, builds confidence, and creates a lifelong (we hope!) connection for those individuals and the library.

The committee is led by Teen Librarian Aimee Meuchel. She says, “Working with the Teen Library Committee is one of my greatest joys because of their enthusiasm, creativity, investment in our community, and hard work. They are our future and I’m excited to see the differences they make in their communities.”

The committee is open to teens entering grades 8 – 12. They meet twice a month in the Teen Room at Tualatin Public Library, and each member commits to volunteering an additional two hours per month for events or other library tasks. Collectively, the Teen Library Committee volunteered for over 200 hours in 2025.

Congratulations to the Teen Library Committee members: Kaiden Edwards, Lauren Ehrhart, Emma Goodell, Percie Horsford, Aspen Lorelied, Daphne Losli, Jay Norris, Olivia Pham, Felicia Rhee, Piper Robbins, Nestor Sanchez Carmona, Kalli Savage, Dhruvika Vadapu, and Olivia Wang.

To learn more about volunteering with the city, visit our website: www.tualatinoregon.gov/volunteers.

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from April 5 to April 8, 2026, two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the sample collected on April 5 and three oocysts were detected in the sample collected on April 7. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the sample collected on April 6 or April 8. Prior to this detection, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on March 31, 2026.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

State of Oregon v. David Rieben

Marion County Circuit Court Case 24CR66847

Salem, OR – April 13, 2026 –  Today, Marion Court Circuit Judge James Edmonds sentenced David Lewis Rieben, Jr., age 58, to 204 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections and 60 months of post-prison supervision for sexual abuse of a household relative.  The abuse occurred between March 2008 and September 2013 when the victim, a minor, was between the ages of 11 and 18-years-old.

After a seven-day trial, on March 31, 2026 a Marion County Jury unanimously found Rieben guilty on three counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, one count of Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the Second Degree, two counts of Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, and a single count of Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office wishes to acknowledge the bravery of the victim for coming forward, as well as the thorough work of the Keizer Police Department - particularly Officer Timothy Lathrop.  The State was represented by Marion County Deputy District Attorney Melissa Roberts.  Due to the sensitive nature of the incident, no additional details will be released.

“Children in our community deserve to feel safe, be protected and cared for.  Especially by their family,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “Thus, family violence will continue to be prioritized by this office.”

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time for communities nationwide to come together and take action to support strong families, thriving children, and healthier communities.  If you have any child safety concerns, please call the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

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Yesterday, a Marion County Grand Jury unanimously found that Marion County Sherriff’s Deputies Rick Kittelson and Benjamin “Ben” Theodoriches were justified in their use of deadly physical force towards Brian Guy Baker (DOB 11/8/1978) of Aumsville, Oregon, on March 29, 2026.  Although Deputies Kittelson and Theodoriches discharged their duty weapons, the Grand Jury ultimately found that Baker died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

In reaching their conclusion, the Grand Jury convened to hear testimony from 10 witnesses, including members of the Salem Police Department who led the investigation.   The Grand Jury reviewed evidence including numerous photographs, scene diagrams, interview recordings, firearm evidence and autopsy conclusions.[1]

The following is a factual summary of evidence found by the Grand Jury:

On March 29, 2026, at 7:08 p.m., the Willamette Valley Communication Center received a 911 call stating that there was a domestic incident at 12393 West Stayton Rd SE, Aumsville, Marion County, Oregon. The caller, who lived at the location (and whose name will not be released), described a physical and verbal altercation by Brian Baker (“Baker”) against his wife, Sondra Baker (“Mrs. Baker”), saying Baker was “not in his right mind”.  The caller also clarified that there were firearms in the residence. At the time of making the call, the caller was outside the home in a nearby vehicle.   

Marion County Sherriff Deputies Theodoriches and Kittelson responded to the scene. Theodoriches has been a Marion County Sheriff’s deputy since August 22, 2021, and Deputy Kittelson has been a Marion County Sheriff’s deputy since June 18, 2018.

The deputies were unable to get an answer from within the residence after approximately 15 minutes of repeated knocking and ringing the doorbell.  By then, the 911 caller had returned to the residence despite the deputies’ instructions not to do so, and he asked the deputies if he could let law enforcement into the residence.  The deputies agreed and they entered the home through the front door, which opens into an interior hallway. 

As they entered the home, deputies heard a female (the victim, later identified as Mrs. Baker) saying that she needed help as she entered the hallway from a bathroom to the left. However, Baker appeared from behind her and placed his left arm over her left shoulder and wrapped his arm around her neck.  Baker then pulled the victim back into the bathroom alcove, out of sight from the deputies. 

Almost immediately, Baker and the victim re-emerged with Baker’s left arm still around her neck; however, he now had a pistol in his right hand, pointed directly at her head.

Deputy Kittelson immediately moved into the living room to his right, in an attempt to flank Baker and/or prevent his escape.  Deputy Theodriches remained in the entryway and described that Baker discharged his firearm into the ceiling.[2]   Baker then pointed the gun at him.  Deputy Theodriches fired directly towards Baker who had ducked and rushed to a doorway down the hallway, deeper into the home. By this time, his victim had fallen to the floor.

Deputy Kittelson also fired several rounds as Baker retreated farther towards the back of the home, through the kitchen.  Baker entered a laundry room area behind the kitchen and went down an interior stairway to the basement.  The deputies did not follow.  Instead, they got the victim out of the residence, along with the family dog.  Additional units, including units from Aumsville and Stayton, responded to secure the residence.  

This sequence of events was corroborated by each witness who testified before the Grand Jury, including family members of the deceased.

Shortly after leaving the residence, the group heard several bangs coming from within the basement/garage area, which they described as “gunshots”. 

Over the next several hours, the Marion County Sherriff’s Office and Oregon State Police coordinated a plan to safely remove Baker from the home. Negotiators with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office attempted to contact Baker numerous times.  However, Baker did not answer his phone.

A Family Service Coordinator from the Marion County District Attorney’s Office also responded to the scene and with the assistance of the Salem Police Department arranged for Mrs. Baker and her family to stay at a Salem hotel. They were provided with food and other immediate necessities while the incident was resolved. 

At approximately 1:47AM on March 30, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart signed a search warrant to enter the home and arrest Baker.  Tactical response teams (“SWAT”) from the Oregon State Police and Marion County Sheriff’s Office utilized numerous methods to prepare for safely gaining entry to the residence, including drones, a robot, and heavy machinery.  Eventually, they knocked down two exterior doors in their attempt to get access to the residence: one sliding glass door in the back of the home, and the rolling garage door at the front.  Shortly after 2AM law enforcement was able to gain entry using an interior drone.  Baker was located in the garage area of the residence, deceased, with a gunshot injury to his head.   At the time of his death, he was positioned on his back underneath a pool table in the center of the one car garage, with a firearm located next to him.

No family members, witnesses, bystanders or deputies were injured during this incident.

Once the scene was rendered secure, investigators from the Salem Police Department took over the scene to conduct an officer involved use of deadly force investigation. Pursuant to Marion County’s Officer Use of Deadly Force Protocol, a non-involved police agency must lead any investigation where law enforcement uses deadly physical force, regardless of whether death occurs.   

Overall, that investigation showed that Deputy Kittelson fired nine times and Deputy Theodoriches fired once. Baker was hit one time in the left forearm.

On March 30^th, Deputy State Medical Examiner Phillip Bennett conducted an autopsy and determined that Baker died from a gunshot wound to the head. The injury to his forearm was not the cause of his death. He ruled the manner of Baker’s death was suicide and his injury was consistent with the weapon found next to Baker.

Baker had nine prior arrests, which was information not presented to the Grand Jury.

Oregon Revised Statute 161.242 describes when a peace officer may use deadly physical force.  The Grand Jury applied the facts of this case to the legal principles dictating circumstances when deadly physical force can be used.  Specifically, the Grand Jury unanimously found that, under the totality of the circumstances known to Deputies Kittelson and Theodoriches they reasonably determined that the use of deadly physical force was necessary as:

• Brian Baker had committed and attempted to commit the violent felonies of Coercion constituting Domestic Violence, Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm and Assault in the Fourth Degree constituting Domestic Violence;

and that,

• deadly physical force was necessary to make a lawful arrest when both officer’s had probable cause to believe a person has committed a violent felony;
• and/or deadly physical force was necessary to defend a peace officer or another person from the use or threatened imminent use of deadly physical force;

and that

• under the totality of the circumstances existing at the time and place, the use of such force was justified.

The Grand Jury further found that all reasonable alternatives, such as verbal de-escalation, waiting, or using other available techniques or resources weren’t feasible as Baker was not responding to law enforcement’s attempts with a reasonable opportunity to comply.

Mrs. Baker and the 911 caller who lived in the residence testified before the Grand Jury.  

The Grand Jury's decision required reviewing all the facts and evidence available and applying them to the legal principles above.  Overall, the Grand Jury concluded that the actions of Deputies Kittelson and Theodoriches were justified and lawful. 

After the Grand Jury’s determination, representatives from the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, including their Family Service Coordinator, met with members of the Baker family to explain the legal determination and answer any questions that they had.

Marion County Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy stated, "I would like to thank the Grand Jury for their careful and thorough review of this dangerous situation.  It is tragic that Mr. Baker felt it necessary to take his own life, as I know that no one wanted this outcome.  Nevertheless, I am thankful no one else was injured, and I am also grateful for the bravery of the Sheriff’s deputies that day.”

Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson added that “Domestic violence situations are some of the most dangerous that we ask our law enforcement professionals to respond to.   We expect them to make split-second decisions in the real world in order to protect victims and our entire community with little regard for their safety.  I am thankful that Deputies Kittelson and Theodoriches were there to protect our community that day.”     

“I further commend the entire investigative team, including the Salem Police and my office’s Family Service Coordinator.  The family’s very difficult night was hopefully made a little easier when we were able to give them a safe place to go as they navigated this terrible event.”

Chief Deputy DA Brendan Murphy stated that: “Marion County continues to fulfill the important requirements of the Marion County Use of Force Protocol with skill, integrity, and transparency.  To all our Law Enforcement in Marion County: We are grateful that you continue to protect and serve."

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to especially thank all the law enforcement agencies who assisted in the resolution and investigation of this incident.  Specifically, the Oregon State Police provided significant assistance with the SWAT response and an excellent investigation by the Salem Police Department, led by lead Detective Stuart Gamble.

The following items from the investigation can be located from the Google Drive link below:

• Photograph of Baker’s gun found in the residence
• Radio traffic of the incident.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Xg0oiVpuvPkVIAjzzZCs_02P5-uFWbGK?usp=sharing

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy presented the investigation to the Grand Jury.  

Please click on the attachment for a report on crime trends and prosecution rates for 2025 in Multnomah County. A turn around is underway. Its happening because of investments in public safety and a lot of hard work by the people involved.

DALLAS (OR) – Peter Nicholas Fles, Jr., age 41, has been sentenced to serve 150 months (12 years, 5 months) in prison for sexually abusing a child under the age of 14 from West Salem. Fles, of Salem, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park, after pleading no contest to two counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree He will also be required to serve a 45-month term of Post-Prison Supervision and register as a sex offender upon his release.

Judge Park sentenced Fles on April 14, 2026, to two consecutive prison terms of 75 months each, pursuant to Oregon’s Ballot Measure 11 minimum mandatory sentencing law. Under that law, Fles is not eligible for any early release or other program that would result in a reduction of his sentence. At the time of his arrest in 2024, Fles was employed as a prison guard at the Federal Correctional Institution in Sheridan.

The Polk County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting the abuse and their bravery throughout the case. This office also thanks the Salem Police Department for their dedicated work on the investigation. The prosecution was led by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Shannon Clausen.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, child abuse or another victimization, April may be a difficult time for you. Below are resources always available to you, should you need assistance or someone to talk to. Center for Hope and Safety: 503-399-7722; Sable House: 503-623-4033; Warriors of Hope: 971-241-3594

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal jury in Portland found Hugo Gomez-Soto, 51, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Oregon, guilty today for distributing fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose death of a Portland man.

“This case highlights the devastating toll of fentanyl in our community. Fentanyl claims too many lives and leaves families heartbroken,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We remain committed to fighting this epidemic and holding fentanyl traffickers in Oregon accountable.”

As presented at trial, Gomez-Soto sold illicit fentanyl in the form of powder and counterfeit pills to a 29-year-old resident of Southwest Portland. The following day, the victim overdosed on the illicit fentanyl, dying just moments after using it, despite life-saving measures, including Narcan, by those on scene. On January 25, 2024, Gomez-Soto was arrested on state charges. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of both fentanyl powder and counterfeit pills containing 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.

Gomez-Soto faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. He will be sentenced on July 10, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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.

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MEDIA PARTNERS INVITED TO GRAND OPENING OF THE FAMILY PEACE CENTER OF WASHINGTON COUNTY

Media Contact:

• Stephen Mayer, stephen_mayer@washingtoncountyor.gov, 971-708-8219

What: Grand opening celebration for the first facility in the nation to offer medical, legal, advocacy, and therapeutic childcare services in one location.

Members of the media are invited to the grand opening of the Family Peace Center of Washington County (FPC). Elected officials, community leaders, and members of law enforcement and community support organizations will be on hand for the celebration. The ceremony will include remarks from key supporters and guided tours of the new facility.

More than 20 partner organizations are now housed at the FPC and are offering integrated support services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, and human trafficking.

This collaborative center is the first in the nation to provide medical services, law enforcement, housing support, mental health care, basic needs support, and a therapeutic preschool for survivors in one location.

Trillium Community Health Plan, a coordinated care organization serving Oregon Health Plan members in the Tri-County area, awarded a $1 million grant to FPC to help fund capital expenses.

When: Thursday, April 30, 2026, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Where: Family Peace Center of Washington County, 1100 NE Compton Dr. Hillsboro OR, 97006

Who: Interview opportunities with:

• Rachel Schutz, FPC Executive Director
• Kevin Barton, Washington County District Attorney
• Suzanne Bonamici, U.S. Representative, 1^st District of Oregon
• Christian Stringer, Special Counsel to the Attorney General, Oregon Department of Justice

About Family Peace Center

The Family Peace Center of Washington County works collaboratively with community partners to provide a single location for prevention, intervention, healing and hope for survivors of violence and abuse in Washington County. Inside the Family Peace Center, more than 20 partner organizations coordinate services to meet the diverse needs of survivors through a seamless continuum of care. For more information, please visit www.fpcwc.org

About Trillium Community Health Plan

Trillium Community Health Plan serves Oregon Health Plan members through the CCO model, which began in 2012. Trillium is a recognized leader for outstanding coordination of care and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), a leading healthcare enterprise dedicated to transforming the health of communities, one person at a time. It was first awarded a contract with the state of Oregon to help manage care for the Oregon Health Plan in 1999. Trillium partners with an extensive group of providers to improve care and access to services for OHP members. For more information, please visit www.trilliumohp.com. 

Hypnatwists Collaborate with Salem Orchestra Members for an Unforgettable Night of Sound and Creativity

Salem, Ore., April 14, 2026  — Chemeketa Community College invites the community to experience an electrifying evening of music on April 22 at 7:00 p.m. as Hypnatwists take the stage at the Chemeketa Auditorium, Building 6 (4000 Lancaster Dr. NE, Salem, OR, Purple Parking Area).

This unique concert brings together Salem’s own garage rock trio, The Hypnatwists, with members of the Salem Orchestra for a performance that blends the raw energy of a three-piece rock band with the rich, live sound of orchestral strings. The result is a bold and dynamic musical experience that highlights the creativity and collaboration within Salem’s local arts community.

The evening opens with a 35-minute set of original music from The Hypnatwists, featuring Ruby on vocals and guitar, Tony on bass, and Zack on drums. Formed after a chance meeting at a Hives concert in Portland, the band delivers a gritty, DIY garage rock sound shaped by driving rhythms, surf-inspired riffs, expressive bass lines, and emotionally charged vocals. Audiences will also get an exclusive preview of five brand-new, unreleased songs.

Following a brief intermission, the performance expands into something truly special. Members of the Salem Orchestra will join The Hypnatwists for a second 35-minute set, adding layered string arrangements that elevate and transform the band’s sound. This collaboration builds on past performances together, including a standout appearance on the main stage at Salem’s Riverfront Amphitheatre during Make Music Day 2025.

Attendees are encouraged to come early and enjoy an evening that celebrates local talent, artistic exploration, and the power of collaboration.

Tickets are available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hypnatwists-tickets-1984823929804?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

Please note: This event may be recorded.

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For more than 55 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves more than 18,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.

Community Members of All Ages Welcome to Celebrate at Free Event

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Clark College invites the community to its free, family-friendly event celebrating children and the Latine culture. Día del Niño (Day of the Child) is from 6 to 9 pm on Friday, April 24, held at Gaiser Student Center on Clark’s main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way.

The annual event celebrates children and families with arts and crafts, dancing, singing, and snacks, and will feature performances by children’s comedian and entertainer Angel Ocasio, traditional Mexican dance group Vancouver Ballet Folklórico, and Forest Grove High School's Mariachi Tradición.

Celebrate Día Del Niño with activities for kids and adults

Join us on Friday, April 24 from 6 to 9 pm to celebrate children, families, reading, dancing, and singing with environmentally friendly games, arts and crafts and snacks.

6 pm      – Enchilades, Taquitos & other traditional foods will be served
                 Environmentally friendly games, arts and crafts

6:55 pm – Mural art unveiling

7:00 pm – Children's juggling and comedy performance by Angel Ocasio

7:30 pm – Mariachi Tradición. Juvenil performance 

8:00 pm – Ballet Folklorico of southwest Washington

8:30 pm – Brazilian Dance performance and open dancing 

See event details here.

All Are Welcome: Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more atwww.clark.edu/nds.

Accommodations: If you need accommodation due to a disability to participate in this event, please contact Office of People and Culture, Melody Williams at MWilliams@clark.edu or (360) 992-2432. Please make requests as early as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

ABOUT CLARK COLLEGE

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.   

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver continues its spring DocArts series with a special Earth Day panel discussion of “War, Ecocide, and Feeding Creative Resistance Through Art.”

The event will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 on campus in the Dengerink Administration Building, Room 110. The event is free and open to the public.

Panelists include:

• Desiree Hellegers, WSU Vancouver English professor, founding member and director of the Collective for Social and Environmental Justice; writer/performer of the web series “How I learned to Breathe Through the Apocalypse,” airing on Open Signal Cable Television; producer with the Old Mole Variety Hour on KBOO Radio; and frequent contributor to Counterpunch magazine
• Derya Ruggles, WSU Vancouver alum in English, former president of the WSU Vancouver Environmental Club, co-director of the web series “How I Learned to Breathe Through the Apocalypse,” co-creator and co-host of “Cool Couv” on Open Signal Cable TV; former soap star on “Days of Our Lives,” and commissioner for the City of Vancouver Transportation and Mobility Commission
• Melissa Salazar, community media cohort facilitator for Open Signal Community Media Center, documentary filmmaker, associate director of the web series “How I Learned to Breathe through the Apocalypse”
• Dan Shea, Vietnam veteran, President of Veterans for Peace, Chapter 172 and member of the national board of Veterans for Peace; international organizer for justice for Agent Orange survivors

The live event will be taped for air on KBOO Radio, KXRW and Open Signal Cable Television.

The DocArts series brings together film and video screenings, artist talks and community conversations throughout the spring term. The series features a diverse group of multimedia artists, activists and public intellectuals working across disciplines and media.

For more information about DocArts events, email desiree.hellegers@wsu.edu.

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.

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio explores the intersection of true crime and classic radio storytelling with, “The Black Museum,” premiering at 1 p.m. April 20.

While the episode takes its name from the infamous Black Museum at Scotland Yard—a collection of everyday objects linked to crimes and murders—it draws from four different mid-20th century radio drama series that used the collection as inspiration for their storytelling.

The original Black Museum, officially known as the Crime Museum of London’s Metropolitan Police, houses artifacts associated with criminal cases. Its restricted access and eerie reputation sparked public fascination, inspiring numerous stories, books and radio programs. Re-Imagined Radio revisits that legacy by sampling and reinterpreting episodes from four series: “Secrets of Scotland Yard,” “The Black Museum,” “Whitehall 1212” and “Fabian of the Yard.”

Each program offers a distinct perspective on crime. “Secrets of Scotland Yard,” dramatizes famous cases; “The Black Museum,” introduced by Orson Welles, focuses on individual objects tied to specific crimes; “Whitehall 1212” presents investigations from the police point of view; and “Fabian of the Yard” recounts memoirs of a former Scotland Yard inspector. Together, these series bring to life true crime stories connected—directly or thematically—to the artifacts of the Black Museum.

Re-Imagined Radio’s new episode weaves selections from all four programs into a single narrative experience, spanning stories from 1874 to the present day. Combining archival material with contemporary sound design, the production highlights how different radio storytellers approached crime, evidence and narrative structure across decades.

“‘The Black Museum’ is not just one program, but a storytelling tradition rooted in the mystery of the collection itself,” said John F. Barber, producer of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “By bringing together four series, we can explore how radio used objects, investigation and memory to tell compelling true crime stories in different ways.”

Listeners will experience a range of storytelling styles—from object-centered narratives to procedural accounts—while reflecting on the enduring appeal of true crime and the power of sound to shape imagination.

Listeners are invited to tune in April 20 to experience this unique episode, which reimagines multiple classic radio series through a single, unifying theme.

About Re-Imagined Radio
Created in 2013 by Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences.

New episodes premiere on the third Monday of each month. Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, and KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm, which also features Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA, offering additional sound-based storytelling between monthly episodes.

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.

The Multnomah Education Service District Budget Committee will meet at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/82815246475?pwd=byjLqs1bLvxuESBhJpWSQMPkbSIob3.1
​​​​​​​Passcode:567514

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Special Session Budget Training on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Budget Committee Training

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.

Hockinson School District Board of Directors Work Session

Date: 4/13/2026

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Zoom

On April 14, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the April 2026 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees! 

Shakira Ilemelong, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Each week, staff members consistently notice Shakira for the way she leads with her heart, her infectious positive attitude, and her deep love for learning. This month, she truly shone as the clear choice to represent our Character Strong trait of Honesty. Shakira’s teachers note that for preschoolers, learning to be a "truth-teller" can be a big challenge. It takes a lot of courage to be honest when things are difficult, but we have watched Shakira blossom into a brave leader. By choosing to tell the truth, she is helping her classroom to be a space where all of her friends feel safe, respected, and trusted. Shakira is so good at showing others that being honest helps solve problems, understand one another, and grow together as a community. As Shakira prepares to head off to elementary school next year, we can say with total confidence that she is 100% kindergarten-ready and that her integrity and her spirit will make her an amazing role model for all her peers. It’s been a joy watching Shakira grow and lead this year.

Lucien Bliss, 2nd Grade at South Ridge Elementary School

Lucian consistently demonstrates an incredible amount of effort and engagement in his academics, and the growth he has shown this year has been truly impressive. It has been especially exciting to watch his confidence develop as he leads calendar time with his peers and continues to make strong progress in reading. Lucian’s persistence is clearly paying off in the classroom. He approaches challenges with determination and a willingness to keep trying, which is helping him grow every day. In addition to his academic success, Lucian is kind and caring toward his classmates, always contributing positively to our classroom and school community. He is a great example of our Three B’s—Be Kind, Be Strong, Be Well—and truly embodies these values through his actions and effort each day. Lucian should be very proud of all he has accomplished.

Amelia Dahlstrom, 4th Grade at Union Ridge Elementary School

Every day, Amelia truly exemplifies the three B’s: Be Kind, Be Strong, and Be Well. Amelia consistently demonstrates kindness, always looking for ways to help others and showing care and consideration to her classmates in the classroom, in specials, at recess, and in the halls. She is also a true self-manager, holding herself accountable to doing the right thing no matter who is around. In addition, Amelia is a strong team player who stays focused, works hard, and approaches new challenges with a positive attitude. She sets a wonderful example for her peers and continues to go above and beyond, as evidenced by her involvement in choir and honor choir this year. Thank you, Amelia, for being such a positive role model for all our Tater Tots! We are extremely proud of you!

Kahena Dudley, 6th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Kahena Dudley consistently shows respect to her classmates and teachers and works hard to do the right thing. Kahena puts strong effort into her assignments and takes pride in the work she completes. She takes responsibility for her learning and wants to truly understand what she is being taught. Kahena isn’t afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification, which shows her commitment to growing and improving. Her focus and determination have helped her become a strong student who takes pride in doing her best. Kahena also sets a positive example for others through her responsible choices, work ethic, and positive attitude. When something is challenging, she stays resilient and keeps working until she understands it. Her responsibility, determination, and kindness make her a great role model in the classroom. Kahena helps make our classroom and school a better place, and we are proud to recognize her as Student of the Month.

Kolton Lightheart, 7th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

Kolton’s commitment to responsibility is evident in the consistent ownership he takes over his daily work. He demonstrates respect by valuing the perspectives of others and fostering a kind, inclusive environment. His resiliency shines through in his ability to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Kolton is a tenacious learner with a hunger for knowledge and a strong desire to do his best. He dives deeply into his learning and works hard to grow his understanding. His hard work is reflected in both his excellent grades and the positive friendships he builds at school. Kolton is also known for his kindness and generosity toward both students and staff. He is a welcoming lab partner who actively involves others and helps bring classmates along in the learning process. In Drama, Kolton is an excellent peer example. He pushes himself to make creative choices and convey meaning on stage, while supporting and encouraging his classmates through his positivity, kindness, and thoughtful ideas. Kolton’s character is something he should be very proud of, and he is truly deserving of this recognition.

Faith Tyrrell, 8th Grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

Wisdom Ridge Academy has been lucky enough to work with Faith for more than two years. She is now in the Spring of her 8th grade year and truly soaring as an excellent Wisdom Ridge Owl. Faith is a creative thinker who uses online tools to incorporate beautiful layouts and graphic design elements into her school assignments. She has a deep background knowledge and interest in children including child development, the importance of play, and how children express their emotions. Faith also has extensive knowledge about animals such as horses and dogs, and she has an amazing understanding of human history, psychology, the Avatar universe, and real estate in Japan. Outside of her school work, Faith volunteers at a daycare and is a junior camp counselor at Camp Tamarack in Oregon. We could not be more proud of Faith as we get ready to launch her off to high school in just a couple months. She has definitely made our school a better place. 

Jace DeShazer, 9th Grade at Ridgefield High School

Jace is an outstanding student who brings a positive spirit, strong work ethic, and genuine enthusiasm to all that he does. As a dedicated member of both the track and cross country teams, Jace demonstrates perseverance, discipline, and commitment. In the classroom, he is equally impressive - quick to grasp new concepts and eager to engage in his learning. His teachers describe him as focused, creative, and highly motivated, often pushing himself to explore new ideas and techniques, particularly in animation. Jace approaches each task with maturity and curiosity, finding ways to stay engaged and make learning meaningful. What truly sets Jace apart is his character. He is consistently polite, respectful and kind, serving as a model of responsibility and integrity. His cheerful and good-natured demeanor contributes positively to the classroom environment, and he approaches each day with a willingness to learn and grow. Outside of school, Jace enjoys reading and cooking. Inspired by his father’s hard work and kindness, he hopes to pursue a future in the culinary field. 

Amber Vesely, Paraeducator at Union Ridge Elementary School

Amber’s kindness and dedication shine through in everything she does. She goes above and beyond each and every day to support our students, offering not only academic assistance but also encouragement and compassion. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Amber brings patience, positivity, and a genuine care for others that make a lasting impact on both students and staff. Our school community is stronger and brighter because of her unwavering commitment and heart.

Lynn Bridge, Paraeducator at the Early Learning Center

Lynn deserves this recognition for many reasons, but her dedication and kindness are what truly stand out. She goes above and beyond, even coming in on weekends to support our preschool. She connects with all students, supports staff with crafts and prep, and treats everyone with genuine respect. Lynn is honest, authentic, and truly makes our school a better place.

Dog Mobility Showcase at Valley Catholic Middle School Highlights Engineering, Creativity, and Compassion

WHO:
Eighth grade students from Valley Catholic Middle School, in partnership with Portland Dachshund Rescue

WHAT:
Media are invited to attend a dynamic Dog Mobility Showcase.
Eighth-grade students will unveil their custom-designed mobility devices for three special dogs with limited mobility. Working in structured “design firms,” students have spent the school year applying engineering, design thinking, and storytelling to develop real-world solutions that improve the lives of rescue dogs.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 15, at 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Valley Catholic Middle School, Eagle’s Gym, 4420 SW Saint Marys Dr, Beaverton, OR 97078 - Check in at the middle school office and we will escort you to the showcase venue. 

VISUALS / PHOTO / INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

• Three of the 15 student teams will present and demonstrate their custom-built dog mobility devices

• Rescue dogs from the Portland Dachshund Rescue interacting with prototypes and (as available) a few dogs to showcase the adopt and foster options available through the rescue. 

• Hands-on displays of design models, materials, and engineering concepts from all 15 teams.

• Student and faculty interviews showcasing innovation, teamwork, and empathy.

• Interviews with members of the Portland Dachshund Rescue

WHY THIS MATTERS:

The Dog Mobility Project is a unique, year-long experience blending STEM education with compassion and community engagement. Students collaborate in teams that mirror professional engineering environments, taking on roles such as Project Manager, Design Engineer, Build Specialist, and Marketing and Media Specialists.

Through this partnership with Portland Dachshund Rescue, students are not only gaining hands-on technical skills—they are making a tangible difference in the lives of animals in need. The project emphasizes leadership, problem-solving, and communication, while fostering empathy and purpose-driven innovation.

BACKGROUND:
The project launched in September 2025, inspired by animal prosthetics featured on Wizard of Paws and reinforced by a live virtual workshop with animal orthotics expert Derrick Campana. The students have since progressed through research, prototyping, testing, and iterative design — culminating in this final public showcase. This project follows their successful work last year to create a prosthetic prototype for Ember, a 16-week-old labradoodle whose back legs were paralyzed as a result of a spinal injury.

Media Access:
Journalists and photographers are encouraged to capture students in action, interview faculty and students, and speak with the Dachshund Rescue director.  Ample parking spaces are available along SW St. Mary’s Drive.

About Valley Catholic Middle School: Valley Catholic Middle School, located in Beaverton, Oregon, is an accredited STEM school that integrates science, technology, engineering, and math across its college-preparatory curriculum for grades six through eight. Through four core academic pillars — Research, Writing, Presentation, and Product — students apply design thinking and problem-solving skills in hands-on, project-based learning experiences, including cross-curricular projects inspired by programs such as the IB Middle Years Programme and SUMMA. Founded as part of the Valley Catholic School community and affiliated with the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, the school reflects a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and service. This innovative approach, combined with a strong foundation in critical thinking and collaboration, equips students to excel academically and to become future-ready leaders in high school and beyond. Learn more at ssmo.org/vcs/schools/middle 

Media Contact:  Brad Hilliard, 615-491-5055, hilliard@ssmoministries.org" style="text-decoration:none;">bhilliard@ssmoministries.org  

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
April 14, 2026

LEMONADE DAY GREATER VANCOUVER OPENS REGISTRATION FOR 2026 PROGRAM

Youth entrepreneurship experience empowers Southwest Washington kids to launch their own businesses

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver is now accepting registrations for its 2026 program, inviting young entrepreneurs ages 6–16 across Southwest Washington to learn how to start, own, and operate their own businesses. Hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), this nationally recognized initiative provides a fun, hands-on introduction to entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

Since launching locally in 2020, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has engaged more than 3,500 youth, equipping them with essential business skills while fostering creativity, confidence, and leadership. Through the My Lemonade Day app and workbooks, participants are guided step-by-step as they develop business plans, set goals, manage budgets, and bring their ideas to life with the support of mentors.

The program culminates in Lemonade Day 2026 on Saturday, June 6, when young CEOs will launch their businesses at the 5th Junior Market, co-located with the Vancouver Farmers Market. To date, participants have collectively generated nearly $140,000 in net income, with proceeds supporting savings goals, reinvestment into their businesses, and charitable giving.

Returning as the Main Squeeze & Presenting Sponsor for the fourth consecutive year, OnPoint Community Credit Union continues to champion the program’s mission of inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“Today’s youth are the future leaders of our community, and it’s critical to support their financial education and their curiosity,” said Tim Clevenger, SVP/chief marketing officer at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We’re proud to sponsor the Junior Market again this year and look forward to seeing the innovative ideas from all the vendors.”

“Lemonade Day is about giving kids the confidence to take an idea and turn it into something real,” said Janet Kenefsky, chief operating officer of the Greater Vancouver Chamber and city director of Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver. “Each year, we see incredible creativity, determination, and growth from these young entrepreneurs. Our goal is to once again reach thousands of participants, each building their own business and making a meaningful impact in our community.”

Lemonade Day is a community-wide effort, and there are many ways to get involved. Participants are encouraged to recruit mentors, investors, and business partners, while community members can support young entrepreneurs by volunteering or becoming customers on Lemonade Day.

To sign up or learn more about Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver and the Junior Market, visit: VancouverUSA.com/Lemonade-Day. For sponsorship opportunities, contact tnerships@VancouverUSA.com" id="link-mailto:Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com-bcc387875bde" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89);" target="_blank">Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com.

Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver is supported by Main Squeeze Investor OnPoint Community Credit Union, with additional support from Burgerville, The Columbian, Colas Construction, When the Shoe Fits, Urban Air Vancouver, First Tech Federal Credit Union, City of Battle Ground, United Precision Corporation, HAPO Community Credit Union, Palm Beach Tan, Unitus Community Credit Union, Grassa, NOVOLEX, Waste Connections, Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries, and the Vancouver Farmers Market.

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About Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver

Since its inception in 2020, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has been rooted in entrepreneurial spirit. Engaging over 3,500 young minds across Southwest Washington, kids ages 6-16 have been learning the essential ABCs of business skills, fueling their creativity, and fostering their understanding of entrepreneurship. We take pride in the fact that 35% of our participants hail from diverse backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and community empowerment. Our initiative has made a SPLASH, generating a whopping $140,000 in net income, directly benefiting charities, and lining the pockets of these budding CEOs! We are more than just a program - we are making a difference one junior-business at a time. For additional details, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/lemonade-day.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 645,000 members and with assets of $9.61 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com.

Media Assets
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bfvMl64JTVPdj4aAzB-Rvz43eNv4KrF3?usp=sharing

Official Program Link
https://www.vancouverusa.com/lemonade-day

My Lemonade Day Participant App, iOs
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-lemonade-day/id1465714143

My Lemonade Day App, Android
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.lemonadeday.mylemonadeday&hl=en_US&gl=US

Lemonade Day Video | Presented by Main Squeeze OnPoint Community Credit Union
https://youtu.be/CPaUIF7Ub5A?si=YxmCwWqrq374laBP

WHAT: The Jefferson Dancers launch their 2026 Spring Concert Series—celebrating their landmark 50th season—with opening night on Thursday, April 16 at the Newmark Theatre.

A free student matinee follows on Friday, April 17, welcoming nearly 900 Portland Public Schools students. This longstanding tradition prioritizes Jefferson High School feeder schools, Title I schools, and schools with dance programs—offering many students a rare opportunity to experience live, professional-caliber dance.

This anniversary season is especially meaningful, with every performance featuring choreography and performances by Jefferson Dancers alumni—underscoring the program’s enduring legacy across five decades.

The concert series features nine new works, many choreographed by alumni. Audiences will experience a dynamic range of styles—from classical ballet to contemporary and high-energy hip-hop—reflecting 50 years of artistic excellence.

Friday evening’s performance will include four special alumni interludes, bringing dancers from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010+ eras back to the stage in a powerful celebration of the program’s history.

Also featured are two student works recently selected for the Outstanding Student Choreography Showcase at the National High School Dance Festival:

Through by Piper Bott
Semi-conscious by Harlow

WHEN & WHERE:

Public Performances:
Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 P.M. (Opening Night)
Friday, April 17 at 7:30 P.M. (Featuring Alumni Interludes)
Saturday, April 18 at 2:00 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.

Student Matinee:

Friday, April 17 at 11:00 A.M.

VENUE:

Portland’5 Newmark Theatre
1111 SW Broadway, Portland, OR

VISUALS & COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES:

• Nearly 900 students attending a live performance
• Alumni dancers from multiple decades returning to the stage
• Dynamic choreography by alumni and student artists
• Interviews with Artistic Director Steve Gonzales, dancers, and choreographers
• Behind-the-scenes access to one of Portland’s longest-running youth arts programs, now in its 50th season

GET TICKETS TO PUBLIC PERFORMANCES:
$27 adults / $12 students & seniors
https://www.portland5.com/newmark-theatre/events/jefferson-dancer

ABOUT THE JEFFERSON DANCERS:
The Jefferson Dancers are the elite performance company of Jefferson High School’s nationally recognized dance program. Now in its 50th season, the company has trained generations of Portland’s most advanced young dancers, ages 14–18, across multiple dance disciplines. This milestone year highlights the program’s deep alumni network, with choreography and performances that celebrate its lasting impact. The Spring Concert remains a signature event showcasing the passion, artistry, and exceptional talent of Portland’s next generation of performers.

The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is hosting adaptive training events in the Portland/Vancouver region this spring, supporting athletes who are blind or visually impaired as they prepare for upcoming triathlons.

Media are invited to attend this Sunday’s Run/Walk event at Captain Clark Park in Washougal (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) to capture the training in action and interview an NWABA spokesperson and athlete preparing for a triathlon.

The digital media kit for triathlon training is available here. 

Please let me know if you plan to attend or would like additional information.

Haley Ellison 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local Athletes Who Are Blind Train for Triathlons in Portland and Vancouver

VANCOUVER, WA — April 10, 2026 — Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is bringing its adaptive sports programming to the Portland/Vancouver region this April, supporting athletes who are blind or visually impaired as they train for upcoming triathlons.

Now in its fourth year participating in regional triathlons, NWABA continues to expand opportunities for athletes to build confidence, independence, and community through sport.

From April through July, NWABA will host a series of training events, including runs and walks, tandem biking, and hiking, to prepare athletes for the Columbia River Triathlon on August 8, hosted by Why Racing Events. Athletes are supported by volunteers who serve as guides, helping participants safely navigate each activity.

“What makes these programs so powerful is the partnership between our athletes and volunteer guides, and the community that forms around them,” said Billy Henry, Founder and CEO of NWABA. “Our athletes show incredible determination and courage, and our guides are right there beside them as teammates. Together, they create an environment where athletes can push boundaries and accomplish goals they may not have thought possible.”

Training for the Triathlon Experience

NWABA’s programming is designed to prepare athletes for the full triathlon experience, building endurance, learning new skills, and gaining confidence across multiple disciplines. From swimming and cycling to running and hiking, athletes are supported every step of the way by trained staff and volunteers.

Each training session contributes to measurable progress while reinforcing the independence and resilience needed to compete.

• 8–10 athletes in the Portland and Vancouver region have completed the triathlon each year, with 11 athletes currently training for 2026

• Each NWABA athlete is supported by a dedicated one-to-one volunteer guide

• NWABA continues to see growing participation year over year across its triathlon program

These experiences go beyond competition, giving athletes who are blind or visually impaired the confidence to redefine what’s possible in both sport and everyday life.

To learn more about NWABA’s programming or find an event near you, visit www.nwaba.org.

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About NWABA

The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides more than 5,000 program and service interactions to children, youth, adults, and military veterans with visual impairments through tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) strongly condemns the federal court ruling on April 14 undermining the Reproductive Health Equity Act—a law that has been critical to ensuring patients across Oregon can access reproductive healthcare without cost barriers or discrimination.

For nearly a decade, the Reproductive Health Equity Act has guaranteed coverage for contraception, abortion care, and other essential reproductive health services without out-of-pocket costs in Oregon. This ruling threatens to erode those protections.

As nurses and frontline healthcare professionals, we see every day what happens when care— including reproductive care—is delayed, denied, or made unaffordable. The consequences are real: worse health outcomes, deepening inequities, and preventable suffering.

While the immediate impact of this ruling is not yet clear and the law remains in effect for now, this decision sets a dangerous precedent that cannot go unchallenged. Oregon has long been a leader in protecting reproductive freedom and advancing health equity, and ONA members have been on the frontlines of that work. We are proud of that legacy and we refuse to go backward.

We stand with our patients. We stand for science-based care. And we call on state leaders to continue fighting this ruling to ensure every Oregonian can access the care they need, when they need it, without barriers.

Let us be clear: care decisions belong to patients and their providers—not courts, not politicians, and not employers—because healthcare is not a privilege; it’s a fundamental human right. 

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Workers are joining ONA to stabilize the hospital and improve patient care. 

(JOHN DAY, Ore.) - An overwhelming majority of healthcare workers at the Blue Mountain Hospital District filed union authorization cards to join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) April 10. The workers include more than 120 local registered nurses, radiology technologists, certified nursing assistants, emergency medical technicians, service and maintenance workers, laboratory workers, and environmental service workers who work at Blue Mountain Hospital and the district’s care center, clinics, labs, offices, and hospice services.

Local healthcare workers are coming together to gain a stronger voice in hospital decision-making, bring stability and transparency back to the district, boost recruitment and retention, and ensure local families have access to high-quality healthcare that’s reliable, affordable and close to home.

“Five years ago we had eight permanent doctors. Today we have none,” said Danielle Hunt, an ONA member and radiology technologist at Blue Mountain Hospital. “Patients shouldn’t have to start over with a temporary provider every appointment. We’re unionizing to make sure every patient has a provider who knows you, your history, and your health.” 

Blue Mountain Hospital District is a public health district that includes Blue Mountain Hospital—Grant County’s only hospital and a critical access facility—the Strawberry Wilderness Community Clinic in John Day, the Blue Mountain Care Center in Prairie City, and other essential local healthcare services. Local frontline healthcare providers and staff in the district care for more than 7,000 people in Grant County and the surrounding region, often building strong bonds and lifelong relationships with the patients they serve.  

“By the time you’ve been here 5 years, everyone who comes through the door is a friend or neighbor. By 10 years, it’s a lot of family too. We owe it to them to make sure we provide outstanding care every step of the way,” said Darol Craig, an ONA member and radiologic technologist at Blue Mountain Hospital.

Caregivers point to years of instability as a driving factor in their decision to unionize. Over the last four years, the district has had four different CEOs and undergone significant changes including care cuts, layoffs and outsourcing. Like many rural healthcare systems, the district has also struggled with looming federal cuts to Medicaid funds. 

Last fall, the Blue Mountain Hospital District laid off 9 staff members, calling it a direct response to “cuts to Medicaid in the One Big Beautiful Bill” along with rising costs and declining use. 

“I love my job and I love my team. They are incredible caregivers who do their best for our patients and community everyday. But if the district keeps going the way it is, I’m not sure we’ll have a hospital much longer,” said Doris Harper, an ONA member and a registered nurse at Blue Mountain Hospital. “We want this hospital to succeed. We want it to be here for our kids and grandkids. We want it to be here to take care of us someday. We can’t afford to sit on the sidelines and hope things improve on their own. We’re rolling up our sleeves and fighting for a voice in our community’s healthcare to make sure local healthcare providers are still here in 50 years, ready to care for the next generation of Grant County families.” 

“This is personal for us. We want the best care for every patient because we know they’re grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends and neighbors. Everybody matters,” said Hunt.

Healthcare providers will now begin preparing for contract negotiations with the district. Workers plan to prioritize transparency and accountability in hospital decisions along with measures to increase recruitment and retention of skilled healthcare staff and ensure sustainable healthcare across Grant County. 

Healthcare workers at Blue Mountain Hospital District are the latest in a wave of Oregon health professionals who have chosen to join ONA in recent years. Over the last 5 years, more than 10,000 nurses and caregivers have voted to join ONA to raise standards for patients, expand access to care, improve working conditions and build healthier communities.    

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrate National Train Day at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Two Days of Steam, History, and Family Fun

PORTLAND, OR — All aboard for a full weekend of steam, history, and hands-on fun as the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) presents its largest-ever National Train Day Celebration, now expanded to two exciting days on May 9 and 10, 2026.

This annual, family-friendly event invites guests to step into the golden age of railroading with immersive experiences, live steam locomotives, and interactive exhibits that bring the Pacific Northwest’s rail history to life.

Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see Portland’s legendary locomotives — Southern Pacific 4449 and Spokane, Portland & Seattle 700 — under steam and on display throughout the weekend. These living, breathing machines are a powerful reminder of the region’s railroading legacy and the volunteers who keep them running today.

But the experience doesn't stop there. Guests can also make their visit even more memorable by riding behind the historic Polson No. 2, a 114-year-old steam locomotive, on a 45-minute scenic excursion along the Willamette River to Oaks Park and back. Trains depart every 90 minutes from 11:00am to 5:00pm.

“This weekend is about more than just trains—it’s about bringing history to life,” said Rick Franklin, President of the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation. “There's nothing quite like seeing, hearing, and riding behind these locomotives. It connects people to the past in a way that books and photos just cannot.”

Event Highlights

• SP 4449 and SP&S 700 under steam
• Cab tours of these legendary locomotives
• Demonstrations of the historic Brooklyn Turntable
• Steam train excursions behind the Polson No. 2
• Model railroad displays from local clubs and enthusiasts
• Food trucks and refreshments
• Family-friendly activities
• Opportunities to explore the museum and rail yard
• And plenty of railroading excitement all weekend long!

Admission & Tickets
General admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for National Train Day is $5 per person, with free admission for children under age 3 and ORHC members. Steam train ride tickets include admission to the Center and start at $25 for adults and $15 for children, with discounted senior, military, and family pass tickets also available. Proceeds directly support the Oregon Rail Heritage Center’s mission to preserve, restore, and share Pacific Northwest railroad history.

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at www.orhf.org. Advance ticket purchase for train rides is strongly recommended, as many train departures are expected to sell out. A limited number of day-of train ride tickets may be available at higher pricing.

Getting There

Limited free parking is available. Guests are encouraged to use TriMet or the Portland Streetcar. The Center is conveniently located across from the OMSI MAX Station.

Event Details
What: National Train Day Celebration

When: Saturday, May 9 & Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 10:00am-6:00pm
Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR, 97214
General Admission: $5.00 (Free for children under 3 and ORHC members)
Train Ride Tickets (Advance): Adult $25 | Senior & Military $22.50 | Child $15 | Infants (under 3) Free | Family Pass $72
Train Ride Departures: 11:00am | 12:30pm | 2:00pm | 3:30pm | 5:00pm

Don't miss one of Portland’s most exciting and historic events of the year — come see, hear, and ride living railroad history.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://orhf.org/blog/national-train-day-returns-may-9-10-2026/.

About the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact
Renee Devereux, Executive Director

Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Phone: (503) 233-1156
Email: devereux@orhf.org">rdevereux@orhf.org
Website: https://orhf.org/

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Contact: 

Monice Wong, Manager of Media Relations 

mwong@portlandalliance.com

MEDIA ADVISORY:  APRIL 16 BREAKFAST FORUM — ADDRESSING ADDICTION AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CHALLENGES ON OUR STREETS, RSVP NOW 

The Portland Metro Chamber presents its monthly Breakfast Forum, which will focus on addressing addiction and behavioral health challenges on our streets. The event will begin with a data driven overview of addiction and recovery trends in the Portland region, followed by a moderated panel of frontline providers who will share their perspectives on what it takes to support recovery and what a more coordinated and effective response could look like. 

Additional details are below. Media are encouraged to attend. Please RSVP with Monice Wong, Media Relations Manager, at mwong@portlandalliance.com.  

WHAT: Presentation and panel discussion on addiction and recovery trends in the Portland region. 

WHEN: Thursday, April 16th, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. 

WHERE: Hilton Portland & Executive Tower, 921 SW 6th Avenue, Atrium Ballroom

WHO: 

• Presenter: Amanda Risser, Chief Medical Officer, Central City Concern 
• Panelists:   
  • Devarshi Bajpai, CEO, Fora Health
  • Beth Epps, Chief Access Officer, Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare
  • Andy Mendenhall, CEO & President, CCC 
  • Tony Vezina, Executive Director, 4D Recovery  

MORE INFORMATION: 

In recent years, addiction to illicit substances has become one of the most visible and complex challenges facing Portland. The impacts are playing out not only in treatment systems but also on the streets, in neighborhoods, and among the region’s unhoused population, where behavioral health needs and substance use disorders often intersect with housing instability. 

For years, Portland’s response to addiction has been shaped by competing impulses: compassion and treatment, harm reduction and accountability, public health and public safety. The result has been a system of policies and programs that has often struggled to keep pace with the scale and complexity of the crisis. 

Now the landscape is shifting. Rising public concern about visible drug use and street level behavioral health challenges has prompted a broader regional reckoning about how Portland responds to addiction, particularly among people living outside and struggling to access stable care. This moment calls for more than cataloging what services exist. It requires a clearer understanding of what recovery actually demands and whether our current systems are equipped to deliver it. 

ABOUT THE PORTLAND METRO CHAMBER:

The Portland Metro Chamber was founded in 1870 and represents the largest, most diverse business network in the region. The Chamber brings together more than 2,200 members represented by dynamic and varied employers from around the region. Grounded in its mission to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the greater Portland and SW Washington region, the Chamber envisions a healthy and resilient business ecosystem where we work together to increase collaboration in governance; engage community; increase civic leadership; and advocate for a vibrant, livable place for all. Learn more at PortlandMetroChamber.com.     

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

Earth Month is in full swing and SOLVE is bringing people together across Oregon and SW Washington for hands-on volunteer events. From neighborhood cleanups and park restoration to creative community activations, these projects offer meaningful ways for community members to care for the places they live, work, and explore. Throughout April, SOLVE is celebrating Earth Month with more than 200 projects, uniting volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Rooted in SOLVE's rich history, this event series merges two cherished events: the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup (1986) and SOLVE IT for Earth Day (1990). It's an excellent opportunity for families, coworkers, and neighbors to bond while preserving our region's stunning locations.

Media are invited to document environmentally engaged citizens and interview SOLVE staff and partners at the following two events:

Lents Park Cleanup with The Portland Pickles, in partnership with Portland General Electric

When: Saturday, April 18, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: 4808 SE 92nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97266 Map Link

Event Description: In celebration of Earth Month SOLVE is inviting neighbors to Lents Park for a fun, family-friendly cleanup, with a special appearance by Dillon T. Pickle, mascot of the Portland Pickles baseball team and Saucy T. Sausage from Portland Bangers FC. Volunteers will collect litter and recyclables around the park and surrounding neighborhood, then gather afterward for snacks and beverages. It’s kind of a big dill, and a great opportunity to meet Dillon, connect with the community, and help keep Southeast Portland clean. More details

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am at Lents Park to see approximately 50 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 10 am to 12 pm, with volunteers expected to spread throughout the Lents neighborhood.

Available interviewees:

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Kristen Sheeran, Vice President of Policy and Sustainability, PGE

Earth Day Cleanup at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, in partnership with Portland General Electric

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

Where: 2 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 Map Link

Event Description: On Earth Day, SOLVE is hosting a scenic cleanup along the Willamette River. This hallmark event, celebrating Earth Day and Volunteer Month, unites volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Volunteers will work together to remove litter and recyclables from one of Portland’s most iconic public spaces. More details

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am at the fountain where the Saturday Market is to see approximately 350 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 10 am to 12 pm, with volunteers expected to spread along the Portland Waterfront and adjacent areas.

Available interviewees:

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Wendy Watson, President, Kaiser Permanente

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

The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2026 is made possible through the partnership with Portland General Electric and the generous support of Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon State Parks & Recreation, The Standard, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Intel, Kaiser Permanente, KOIN6, LAM Research, Lithia & Driveway, National Parks Recreation & Parks Association, and PepsiCo.

For more information or to register, visit solve.org/oregon-spring

About SOLVE:

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. You can follow SOLVEPNW on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or at www.solve.org.