Today at 9:27 a.m., Albany Fire Department responded to a home on Water Avenue NE with reports of fire.  Crews located fire burning on the exterior and interior of a single-story home.  The sole occupant of the house was not home at the time of the fire.  AFD personnel extinguished the fire by 9:57 a.m. with no injuries to firefighters.

After investigating the cause and origin, crews determined two individuals were sleeping in a tent on a neighboring property.  A propane heater was being used for warmth.  The heater caused the tent, tarps and exterior of the neighbor’s home to ignite.  The occupants of the tent had minor injuries and refused transport to a medical facility.

Space heaters and heating stoves account for nearly half of heating equipment fires and seven out of ten deaths caused by heating equipment.  Heaters need at least 3 feet of space, away from anything that can burn.  Equipment that uses propane should never be used indoors or in confined spaces due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.  For more home fire safety tips, visit Albany Fire Department

Albany, OR – January 17, 2026

The Albany Police Department is investigating a tragic incident that occurred on the evening of January 16, resulting in the death of a 16-year-old Albany resident.

At approximately 10:08 p.m., officers responded to a report of a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash on SE 19th Avenue near SE Tudor Way. The pedestrian, identified as Paige Michael Charlene McClintock, sustained severe injuries and was transported to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center by Albany Fire Department personnel. Despite lifesaving efforts, Paige later passed away.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of the involved vehicle—a white 2005 Nissan Altima—was Paige’s older sister, 18-year-old Kirah Kristine McClintock. Kirah was located nearby and cooperated with investigators. At this time, impairment does not appear to be a contributing factor.

According to investigators, the collision occurred as Paige and another sibling were pushing a rolling tool chest in the roadway when the vehicle struck the toolbox and Paige. Kirah was following her sisters with the vehicle at a slow, walking speed.  The Nissan Altima has been seized under a search warrant for further analysis.

This is an unimaginable tragedy for this family and our community, and our hearts go out to everyone affected. We ask for patience and support for the family, friends and first responders as we work to understand the circumstances.

Paige McClintock attended Albany Options School where she was an amazing student.  Greater Albany Public Schools (GAPS) will have counselors and support team available as we navigate this tragedy together when students return next week.

The investigation remains ongoing. Please contact Albany Police Department Sergeant Eric Tress if you have information about the incident.  541-917-7680  APD Case Number 26-00274.

Beaverton, OR – The Beaverton Police Department is continuing to investigate an attempted murder that occurred Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Comfort Inn & Suites located at 13455 SW Tualatin Valley Highway.

Shortly before 1:00 p.m., Beaverton Police Officers responded to a report of a shooting at the hotel. The victim, a 37-year-old female from Portland, suffered one gunshot wound to the chest and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. She remains hospitalized at the time of this release and is listed in stable condition.

The suspect has been identified as Robert Halvorsen Walsh, age 44, of Portland, who is believed to be the victim’s boyfriend.

On January 13th, 2026, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted Walsh on the following charges:

• Attempted Murder
• Assault in the First Degree
• Assault in the Second Degree
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon

This remains an active investigation. Additional details are not being released at this time.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective Christoper Crosslin with the Beaverton Police Department by calling 503.526.2261 or ccrosslin@beavertonoregon.gov.
 

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Beaverton, OR - The Beaverton Police Department is investigating a burglary case involving the theft of a rare Nike shoe collection from a Public Storage facility located at 5353 SW 107th Avenue in Beaverton.

Detectives determined that the suspects began renting a storage unit at the facility in December 2025, which allowed them authorized access to a secured storage building. After gaining access, investigators believe the suspects entered additional storage units by traveling through the ceiling space above the units.

At least 10 storage units are believed to have been burglarized. While one unit contained a high-value Nike shoe collection, other units were also illegally entered and additional valuable property was stolen. The total estimated loss to victims is more than $100,000.

The suspects were identified as Dustin Kosmecki, age 47, and Corey Schmidt, age 45, both of Portland, Oregon. Kosmecki and Schmidt have been arrested and lodged at the Washington County Jail in Hillsboro, Oregon.

Detectives believe there may be additional victims who have not yet reported losses. Anyone who rented a unit at this location and believes their property may have been stolen is encouraged to contact the Beaverton Police Department.

Public Storage has been cooperative throughout the investigation and has assisted detectives with access records and surveillance information.

This investigation remains ongoing.

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The Sandy Fire District Board of Directors will hold a regular board meeting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items include monthly division reports and an Operation Santa presentation.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, please sign up by completing the Sandy Fire District Public Meeting Comments form by Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

The public may attend either via remote video conference or in person at the Sandy Fire District Station 71 Annex (17459 Bruns Ave., Sandy, OR 97055). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Sandy Fire’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://sandyfire.org/about/board. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 16, 2026

Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District Board Refers Local Option Levy to May 2026 Ballot

ST. HELENS, Ore. — The Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District Board of Directors approved Resolution 26-01, referring a local option levy measure to the May 19, 2026, primary election ballot.

The measure proposes a five-year levy of 29 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value to support the continued operation of 9-1-1 emergency communications services throughout Columbia County.

If approved, the levy is expected to generate an estimated $10,914,819 over five years, based on current assessed property values, with projected annual revenues as follows:

• Year 1: $1,997,354
• Year 2: $2,086,125
• Year 3: $2,178,841
• Year 4: $2,275,679
• Year 5: $2,376,820

Revenue from the levy would be used to maintain current 9-1-1 services and address ongoing operational needs, including system reliability, technology upgrades, and supporting infrastructure for emergency communications.

“The proposed levy would help the district maintain existing 9-1-1 operations and plan for continued system and technology needs,” said Jeremy Hipes, Executive Director.

The Board also authorized the Executive Director to submit the required ballot title and explanatory statement to the Columbia County Elections Office. Voters will decide on the measure during the May 19, 2026 primary election.

RELEASE DATE:               Jan. 15, 2026
CASE NUMBER:                26-02155

Gresham, Ore.

Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 14-year-old who was last seen leaving Gresham High School with a friend, in the 1200 block of N Main Ave.

Annabella Wimberly left school at 12:40 p.m. today and has not returned. She is described as a White female with brown hair, is 5-feet and 4-inches tall and weighs 140 pounds.  Annabella was last seen wearing a light-colored hoodie and was wearing a teal polka dot backpack. Annabella’s family is concerned about her well-being without supervision.

If anyone has information about Annabella’s whereabouts, they are asked to call 911.

#30

January 15, 2026 – Newport, OR
 

On January 15, 2026, at approximately 08:37am, The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received reports of an unknown crash near the 2800 block of Moonshine Park Rd in Logsden, OR. While enroute, Deputies learned the incident involved a helicopter, which crashed into a cow pasture. The crash did not physically harm nearby structures, individuals, or livestock. There is no ongoing threat to the community.

Responders contacted the pilot onsite, who was the sole occupant of the commercially operated Bell JetRanger helicopter. The pilot suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported for further evaluation and treatment.

The cause of the crash is still unknown and under investigation. The investigation has been turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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HELICOPTER CRASH EAST COUNTY – UPDATE 01
 

January 15, 2026 – Newport, OR
 

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is aware of a helicopter crash near Milepost 3 on Moonshine Park Rd (east Lincoln County). Our team and partnering agencies are currently on-site. The scene is contained and there appears to be no danger to the community. Community members are asked to stay clear of the area while responders  assess the situation.

More information will be shared as the situation develops.
 

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LINCOLN ALERTS

Emergency Notifications and Time-Sensitive Updates

You can stay informed about emergencies and important community alerts by signing up for Lincoln Alerts, an emergency notification system coordinated by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office through Oregon’s OR-Alert system. These alert messages can be sent by Public Safety, City, Tribal, and County Officials. You can also subscribe to automated alerts like weather alerts, air quality advisories, flooding alerts, and more.

What to Expect

Lincoln Alerts sends time-sensitive messages on topics such as:

• Severe weather
• Distant tsunamis
• Evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods due to emergency events
• Available resources during and after a disaster

Flexible Notification Options

Subscribers can choose how they receive alerts. Notification options include phone calls, emails, text messages, and mobile app notifications. Alerts are sometimes sent only to affected areas. Be sure to include the address of your home, work, and school in your account to receive notifications for those areas. Regardless of your subscription, you can always view Lincoln Alert messages on the Member Portal.

Alerts are sent out in order of your preferred contact. Subscribers may receive multiple alerts depending on how quickly they confirm the notifications, or if their contact information is listed on multiple accounts. 

Sign Up Today

It is recommended that each household member create their own account with personal contact information to receive alerts during an emergency. Emergencies and disasters can happen anytime and anywhere. Keeping yourself and your loved ones connected to emergency alerts is one step you can take to stay safer and better prepared.

• Sign up for a Lincoln Alerts account: www.member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/new   
• Update an existing account: www.member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/login  
• Member Portal can be viewed here: https://member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif

More information about Lincoln Alerts: www.co.lincoln.or.us/789/Lincoln-Alerts

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on January 13, 2026, at 4:09 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received multiple 911 calls from residents located in the 41700 block of Upper Berlin Drive, outside of Sweet Home, for a disturbance.  It was reported that there was a physical fight, and one male was shot in the head. 

Linn County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and the Lebanon Fire Department were dispatched to the location where they contacted Jordan Nathaniel Stewart-Bennett, 23, and Joshua Arnold Storms, 50, both residents of the location.  Nathaniel had a gunshot wound to his head and was transported to the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and is in critical condition.      

Joshua Arnold Storms was taken to the Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital for a medical evaluation prior to being lodged in the Linn County Jail for Attempted Murder, Assault in the First Degree, and Unlawful Use of Weapon.    

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Detective Dakotah Hinrichs at (541) 967-3950.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) had 29 adults in custody (AIC) graduate from the Aramark IN2Work program in 2025.

“IN2WORK and MCSO are focused on preparing people to reenter our community with skills that translate into purpose,” said Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “When we equip adults in custody with life skills, we are strengthening our communities, working to reduce recidivism, and creating pathways to stability, while supporting public safety.”

“IN2WORK is an opportunity to help transform lives, and create opportunities for our graduates,” said Eddie Climber, district manager for Aramark’s western region.

IN2WORK was founded on a simple but powerful belief that providing meaningful education and hands-on training can help break the cycle of recidivism.

MCSO fully implemented the IN2WORK program in 2024.

Through MCSO’s partnership with IN2WORK, participants are offered education and food safety training and certifications for a path to success both during and post-incarceration. The program provides AICs with the sense of working in a team environment.

After completing the program, many of the participants are given pathways to sustainable employment and community reintegration upon release through Aramark’s job placement component program.

AICs are selected based on a comprehensive screening process. Eligibility is contingent upon being fully sentenced, meeting work program standards, maintaining medical clearance for food service, and demonstrating both the educational aptitude and the long-term commitment required to complete the curriculum.

Of the 29 AICs who graduated in 2025, 15 earned ServSafe certifications from the National Restaurant Association.

“We do not believe a person’s time in custody should define their outcomes,” said MCSO Chief Deputy Stephen Reardon, who oversees the MCSO Corrections Division. “IN2WORK supports our belief that people can leave our custody better prepared than when they entered.”

“Education and training inside our facilities create real opportunities to change lives,” said MCSO Programs Unit Manager Steve Ciccotelli. “IN2WORK empowers adults in custody to build confidence, gain practical skills, and prepare for a future where success is possible. Every step toward readiness helps individuals achieve stability and lowers the likelihood of returning to custody.”

MCSO hosted four classes in 2025, which resulted in 64 hours of prep time for program instructors and deputies.

In 2024, MCSO had 18 IN2WORK graduates.

Nationwide, Aramark’s IN2WORK program has empowered over 14,000 incarcerated individuals with career-ready certifications, transforming lives and offering hope through food safety, warehousing, workforce training and post-release employment opportunities.

Media interested in interviews related to the IN2WORK program should contact the MCSO Public Information Officer (PIO).

Aramark provides food services and facilities management to hospitals, universities, school districts, stadiums, and other businesses around the world.

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Yamhill County, Ore. (Jan. 15, 2026)- On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 8:43 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 154, near milepost 6, in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Kia Spectra, operated by Marcel Israel Benavides (35) of Dayton, crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and struck a northbound International commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Jose Armando Perez Torres (26) of Salem. 

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

The operator of the International (Perez Torres) was reportedly uninjured.

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

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

# # #

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

Lane County, Ore. (Jan. 15, 2026)- On Monday, January 12, 2026, at 8:57 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepost 40, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Ford F-250, operated by Aaron Henry Longton (64) of Port Orford, lost control and rolled in the ditch. The roll event ejected the operator and sole occupant of the vehicle.

The operator of the Ford (Longton) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by Oakridge Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

Coos County, Ore. (Jan. 14, 2026)- Springfield assault suspect taken into custody.

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:46 a.m., Oregon State Police received information regarding a possible sighting of Marcquis Andrew Lee White (33) who was wanted in connection with an assault that occurred on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Springfield. Bandon Police Chief Cory Dhillon was first to arrive at the location, near milepost 7 on Seven Devils Road, and identified where White had fled down a steep embankment into the brushline. Chief Dhillon was able to direct responding personnel from the Oregon State Police, Bandon Police Deparment, Coos County Sheriff's Office, and Oregon State Police SWAT team, to White's last known location. Oregon State Police SWAT personnel were able to locate White and take him into custody without incident.

White was transported to a medical facility for evaluation and will be transferred to the custody of the Springfield Police Department, and ultimately lodged in the Lane County Jail for crimes associated with Monday's assault.

OSP would like to thank our law enforcement partners in Coos County and the United States Coast Guard for their dedication and persistence over the last 60 hours that led to the successful apprehension of White.

For information related to Monday's assault, contact the Springfield Police Department.

# # #

  
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. 

Update- Oregon State Police Seeking Public Assistance

Oregon State Police is requesting any witnesses to the fatal crash that occurred on January 10, 2026, between 11:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m., contact investigators to provide any information related to the incident. The pedestrian, who is deceased, was associated with a gray or aluminum Dodge Grand Caravan that was parked at the crash scene. The vehicle involved in the crash was a silver Ford Explorer. Investigators are looking for any information related to the vehicles prior to and at the time of the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP’s Northern Command Dispatch Center at 800-442-0776 or by dialing OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-010591.

Jefferson County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:43 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 97, near milepost 101, in Jefferson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Explorer, operated by James Edwin Legore (63) of Sandy (UT), was on the shoulder of the roadway and began to merge into the northbound lanes when it struck a pedestrian, Jared Elijah Cooper (38) of Madras, while reentering the highway.

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

# # #

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

Clatsop County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 1, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Subaru Forester, operated by Smith Ward Humphreys (47) of Warrenton, crossed into the eastbound lanes to pass westbound vehicles and struck an eastbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Daysy Vanesa Camarena (37) of Whittier (CA).

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

The operator of the Toyota (D. Camarena) and passenger, Joshua Zeke Camarena (33) of Whittier (CA), suffered reported serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Seaside Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

Klamath County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Friday, January 9, 2026, at 6:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 228, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford F-450, operated by Douglas Alan Fordyce (61) of Caldwell (ID), was stopped westbound on Silver Lake Road at the intersection with Highway 97. The Ford attempted to enter the highway and was struck by a southbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Sebastian Mercado Juarez (29) of Fresno (CA), causing a side impact collision.

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

The operator of the Freightliner (S. Juarez) and passenger, Christian Mercado Juarez (31) of Fresno (CA), suffered reported minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by Chiloquin Fire and Rescue, Chemult Rural Fire District, and ODOT.

# # #

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

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (12 January 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking the public’s assistance to identify the person(s) responsible for dumping salmon along the shoulder of Highway 224 east of SE Tong Road in Clackamas County.

The salmon were discovered by a nearby property owner around December 19, 2025.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number #SP25-517721.

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.

PF&R responds to pedestrian struck by freight train

At just before 7 PM Portland Fire & Rescue responded to reports of a freight train striking a pedestrian alongside the Union Pacific railroad tracks in the NE Portland Wilkes Neighborhood. Union Pacific officials connected with BOEC dispatchers to generate a response to the area of NE 158^th and Rose Parkway which was the closest identifiable location to the possible incident. Initially the incident was categorized as a railway derailment but was quickly confirmed to be a pedestrian struck reducing the response by nearly 50%. Reports from the train conductor of the eastbound train were there was a belief someone was struck around the area of NE 158^th but by the time the train was able to come to a stop, the locomotive was already 23-30 blocks to the east and there was no visible confirmation of a victim which makes location a challenge as the stopped train prevents the ability to safely access the opposite side of the tracks for responders and vehicular travel is very limited along this section of the railroad tracks forcing a hike from either the East or West.

Gresham Fire Engine 74 traveling westbound on I84 was the first response vehicle on scene followed by Portland Fire Engine 30. The victim was visible from I 84 lying on the south side of the railroad tracks and was seen moving indicating this was not a fatal event. Crews used a 24’ extension ladder to descend from the freeway the 12’-15’ to the level of the railroad tracks and made access to the patient, a houseless adult (mid-40’s – gender unknown) and performed appropriate medical care in this traumatic event. The victim complained primarily of hip pain leading to crews performing appropriate interventions for this and all other treatments given the mechanism of injury.

While medical interventions were taking place alongside the tracks, other crews on scene repositioned the ladder to the full 24’ extension providing for a very slight angle from the freeway down to the level of the railroad tracks. This permitted crews to use this ladder as a safe pathway up to the waiting AMR ambulance for transport to the hospital. Crews used the specifically designed low angle rope system as both a safety and assistance device to move the patient up the ladder along with members ensuring the backboard carrying the patient advanced in a slow, safe, controlled manner to the freeway. The patient was in critical condition and was entered into the trauma system, so the appropriate medical team was ready to properly treat the patient upon arrival at the medical facility.

Portland Fire would like to remind you that walking alongside an active railroad line is extremely dangerous and encourages everyone to refrain from such activities. Transit along sidewalks or properly designed safe walking paths is a far better option.

Portland Fire would like to thank the officials of Union Pacific, our partners at Gresham Fire, the dispatchers at BOEC, the transporting crew of AMR, and Portland Police for their assistance in this emergency incident.

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PF&R responds to residential fire with fire victim.

At 6:56 AM Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a residential fire in the Piedmont Neighborhood of NE Portland. Reports were possible structure fire with flames seen in the front room. Engine 14 arrived to confirm light lazy smoke wafting out from under the porch overhang of a 1 ½ story home with a basement and directed the crew to make entry for investigation.

Upon forcing the door, a dose of fresh oxygen caused a quick burst of fire growth of the smoldering fire located in the front room. Although thick smoke was banked down from the ceiling and evident that the entire second level was filled with smoke, the fire was easily visible under the layer of smoke. A water supply was established from the hydrant located to the north while crews extended hose lines into the structure and applied water on the fire. The fire was quickly extinguished and fire crews pulled ceiling in the front room for any possible fire extension upward into the second level. Clean lath boards used in the ceiling indicated no upward extension of the flameshad occured in this instance. Further checks for extension were made to the immediate area and the basement showed no signs of fire activity nearly confirming the fire was exclusively located in the front room area of the 2061 square foot residence.

Truck crews were directed to perform a search of the structure and located an adult female fire victim on the second floor in an upstairs bedroom and brought her downstairs and out to the front for medical care. Fire crews and AMR personnel performed medical interventions on scene prior to transporting the fire victim in critical condition to the hospital for elevated care. (The condition of the fire victim is not known by PF&R at the time of posting.)

The suspected cause of this fire is use of an extension cord on an auxiliary space heater. Any large appliance, including portable space heaters and air conditioners should always be plugged directly into a grounded wall outlet and never into a power strip or extension cord.

Additionally, working smoke detectors save lives. No audible smoke alarms were activated or noticed upon the arrival of fire crews. These audible alarms are designed to alert occupants of a potential fire danger increasing survivability in a fire emergency.

Lastly, the home was heavily cluttered which makes it difficult to search and move hoses throughout the interior of the home. Additionally, this clutter is very difficult navigate for anyone, occupants included, when the presence of smoke prevents clear visibility. Taking time to eliminate clutter in your home or the home of a loved one can be very helpful if there is ever a need for an emergency response to the location.

Portland Fire would like to thank the BOEC dispatch center for their assistance in this emergency as well as the volunteers from TIPS NW who responded to assist in addressing the emotional impact of this incident on the immediate neighbors of this emergency incident.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Vancouver Fire Department Honors Firefighter Jeremiah Frenz with Procession

Vancouver, WA — January 16, 2026 — Today, the City of Vancouver Fire Department solemnly honored Firefighter Paramedic Jeremiah Frenz, age 32, with a procession marking his transport from the Office of the Coroner in Clark County to Brown’s Funeral Home in Camas, Washington.

Firefighter Frenz joined the Vancouver Fire Department on March 16, 2020. He proudly served the Vancouver community on Truck 5 and was a member of the regional Technical Rescue Team. He was a deeply respected and valued member of the department.

Firefighter Frenz passed away off duty on January 13, 2026. He was escorted with honor and respect by members of his fire service family. The procession included Truck 5, Engine 5, a Vancouver Fire Department Chaplain, and several fire engines positioned on overpasses along the route. Riding in the apparatus were members of Jeremiah’s crew from Fire Station 5, where he served on B Shift.

This procession served as a visible expression of gratitude, respect, and brotherhood for a firefighter and paramedic who dedicated his life to serving others. Jeremiah’s adventurous spirit, infectious smile, and steadfast professionalism left a lasting impression on his fellow firefighters and the countless community members he served throughout his career.

The Vancouver Fire Department remains united in grief and remembrance, standing alongside Jeremiah’s family, friends, and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy of service, dedication, and camaraderie will endure within the department.

Details regarding memorial services will be shared when they become available. The Vancouver Fire Department respectfully asks that the privacy of Firefighter Frenz’s family be honored as they mourn their loss.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Vancouver Fire Department Mourns the Off-Duty Passing of Firefighter Paramedic Jeremiah Frenz

Vancouver, WA — January 14, 2026 — The Vancouver Fire Department is deeply saddened to announce the off-duty passing of Firefighter Paramedic Jeremiah Frenz, who tragically passed away on January 13, 2026.

Firefighter Frenz was assigned to Fire Station 5, B Shift, where he proudly served the Vancouver community on Truck 5. He began his career with the Vancouver Fire Department on March 16, 2020, following prior service in Oregon as both a firefighter and a paramedic.

Jeremiah was a dedicated public servant and a revered member of the Vancouver Fire Department family. His professionalism, commitment to service, and camaraderie made a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him. His loss is deeply felt across the department and the community he served.

“This is an extremely difficult time for our department,” said Vancouver Fire Chief John Drake.  “Jeremiah was a revered member of our VFD team who left us far too soon.”

The Vancouver Fire Department extends its heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Jeremiah’s family, friends, and loved ones. Department members are encouraged to support one another during this period of mourning and to seek support as needed.

Details regarding memorial services or additional arrangements will be shared when available. The department respectfully asks that the family’s privacy be honored during this difficult time.

Vancouver, Wash. – On November 15, 2025, Vancouver Police responded to a call involving a rideshare driver whose vehicle had been rammed multiple times by a male the female passenger knew as K Lodge Lodge. The driver and her passenger were able to flee from the male and drove to a Vancouver Police precinct to seek help.

Since the incident, Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Domestic Violence Unit and the Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force have attempted to locate Lodge without success.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of K Lodge Lodge is asked to contact Detective Corporal James Porter at ter@cityofvancouver.us">james.porter@cityofvancouver.us.

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Following a record-setting year for underground utility locate requests in Oregon, a new rule aimed at reducing damage has adjusted the ticket life for excavation projects from 45 days to 30 days.

Oregon set an all-time record in 2025 with 382,441 locate requests. It was fitting to reach this milestone on the 30th anniversary of the Oregon Utility Notification Center, more commonly known as Oregon 811. The Oregon Legislature created the agency back in 1995 to prevent damage to underground utilities and promote safe excavation.

“Each locate request represents a contractor or homeowner doing the right thing and using our free service to know what’s below before digging,” said Josh Thomas, Executive Director for the Oregon Utility Notification Center. “Whether you’re working on a small project or a large one, hitting a utility when digging can range from a minor annoyance to a life changing catastrophe – and in most cases it is avoidable.”

People planning to dig should request locates at least two business days in advance. Whether they call 811, request locates through Oregon811.com or use its free iPhone and Android apps, the service is quick, easy and costs nothing to use. The Oregon 811 system uses no tax dollars and is funded by more than 1,000 utilities statewide.

Starting this month, a new change is being implemented that could impact those working on large and long-term excavation projects. The life of an excavation ticket in Oregon has been reduced from 45 days to 30 days. This new deadline is noted on the dig tickets, and excavators are encouraged to consider this in their project planning.

“By reducing the ticket life from 45 days to 30 days, we’re ensuring that excavation projects are supported by the most accurate and up-to-date information,” said Melanie Lewis, Chairperson of the Oregon Utility Notification Center Board of Directors. “This enhances safety, minimizes risk, encourages communication, and helps protect underground infrastructure and the communities we serve.”

Oregon's previous 45-day ticket life deviated from industry best practices as an outlier compared to most other states. Especially in the winter and spring, rainy weather can cause locate paint marks to fade or wash away. The board approved the change after two years of meetings, testimony, and deliberations, which amended OAR 952-001-0010 (23).

For details on the status of related rule changes, visit digsafelyoregon.com/rulemaking.

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In 1995, the Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC) to establish a statewide notification system to reduce damages to underground facilities and to promote public safety related to excavation issues (ORS 757.547). The free service ensures that operators of underground facilities are notified of proposed excavation so the utilities can be located and marked in advance. For more information about the OUNC or the statewide notification system, go to Oregon811.com.

The January Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Meeting will be held Wednesday January 21, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting remotely or in person, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on January 21, 2026.

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

About TVWD 

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

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

• Announcement made during the Jan. 8 Board Work Session

• Retirement effective July 2026 following 19 years of service

• Board to launch national search for next General Manager

SALEM, OR — January 12, 2026 — Last week, during a public Work Session of the Salem Area Mass Transit District (Cherriots) Board of Directors, General Manager Allan Pollock announced his intent to retire this coming July. His departure will conclude a 19-year tenure—one of the most transformative leadership periods in the District’s history.
 

Pollock, who became General Manager in 2007, cited his pride in the evolution of the agency and the dedication of "Team Cherriots" while making his announcement:

"Serving as the Cherriots General Manager these past 19 years has been one of the greatest honors of my career," said Allan Pollock. "We have accomplished much because of the great people who work here as part of Team Cherriots. I thank all of them for their loyalty and commitment to this organization. While there is still much to do in the coming months, I am committed to ensuring we continue to move forward and are prepared for the changes ahead."

A Legacy of Community Connection

Under Pollock’s leadership, Cherriots navigated a period of unprecedented modernization. His tenure saw the successful rebranding of the agency, the restoration of weekend and late-night services, and a pivot toward sustainable, zero-emission transit solutions.
 

Maria Hinojos Pressey, Board President, expressed the Board’s commitment to a steady future:

"Allan has been a cornerstone of this organization and the community for nearly two decades," said Hinojos Pressey. "His stewardship in Cherriots paved the way for a thriving system. His care and intention has created a strong organization and a highly capable team. The Board is committed to a thoughtful transition process that builds on this progress while preparing for the next chapter of mobility in the Salem-Keizer community."

Transition and Search Process

The Cherriots Board of Directors will begin a recruitment process for a new General Manager in the coming weeks. Pollock expressed his intent to lead the District through July to ensure a seamless leadership transition once a successor is selected.

About Cherriots

Established in 1979, Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) is a special district covering 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the district provides vital service to more than 450,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. SAMTD maintains a total of 124 transit vehicles across its various services and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips annually.

For more information, visit www.cherriots.org.

(Salem, Ore.) — The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is pleased to announce the release of the 2026 Veterans Benefit Magazine, now available online and in print. This annual free publication is one of Oregon’s most widely used resources for veterans and their families, connecting Oregonians with the full range of state and federal benefits they have earned through their military service.
 

What’s New in the 2026 Edition

The 2026 Veterans Benefit Magazine includes comprehensive updates and resources such as:

• Updated contact information for all 36 county Veteran Service Offices, Oregon Tribal Veteran Service Offices and special advocacy
• 2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates
• Updated veteran license plate information including the new motorcycle/moped plates
• Veteran-focused behavioral health and suicide prevention resources, including BeyondTheMilitaryUniform.com
• 2026 ODVA Veteran Home Loan Program rates and program details
• Locations for VA Medical Centers, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers
• State and federal resources on health and dental care, transportation, employment, education and more

This magazine is designed for veterans at every stage of life—from those who have recently transitioned out of the military to long-time community members seeking updated benefit information or support. This magazine serves as a trusted starting point and ongoing guide to the state and federal veteran benefits veterans have earned through their service to our nation. It also serves as a helpful reference for families and survivors, caregivers, service providers, and community partners.
 

The 2026 edition is available here: 2026 Digital Veteran Benefit Magazine and can also be accessed on ODVA’s website: www.oregon.gov/odva.

Printed Copies Available: Veterans, service organizations, community partners, and any member of the public can order free printed copies online at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/VeteransBenefitMagazine.

The digital version may be downloaded for offline use and shared freely.

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, January 22, 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 October 23, 2025, 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. Christopher Wade, DPSST No. 30403; Christmas Valley RFPD – Revoke

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

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Jennifer Cameron, Vice-Chair

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

A. Shane Bond, DPSST No. 59946; DOC/Union County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on December 16, 2025.

B. John Deardorff, DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

C. Mark Farmer, DPSST No. 55203; Multnomah County Sheriff's Office – No Action

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

D. Emily Fisk, DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

E. Jesus Gutierrez, Sr., DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

F. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

G. Erica Hurley, DPSST No. 29900; Portland Police Bureau – No Action

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

H. Bonnie Kessell, DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

I. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

J. Jonathan McNichols, DPSST No. 60995; Salem Police Department – Revoke

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

K. James McQueen, DPSST No. 55471; Hillsboro Police Department – Revoke

Seven (7) to two (2) vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

L. Kathleen Williams, DPSST No. 43028; Bureau of Emergency Communications – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on August 12, 2025.

M. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

• • Anel Ceric – Non-Management Law Enforcement. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Michelle Duncan – Oregon State Sheriffs' Association. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Warren Hensman – Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police. Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective January 22, 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. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0120, 259-060-0135, 259-060-0136, 259-060-0300, 259-060-0310, 259-060-0320, and 259-060-0380

Related to Emergency Suspension

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

a. Advisory Discussion of Upcoming Changes to the Basic Police Program

b. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Registration to Regional Training Courses

c. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Use of DPSST Facilities

d. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0001

     Recommended Repeal

e. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-030-0005

    Relating to the Authority of the Director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training

f. Workgroup/Rules Advisory Committee Request

    Related to Law Enforcement Officer Certification Maintenance Requirements Per OAR 259-008-0065

g. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527

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

7. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle 

8. Next Meeting Date: April 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.

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 teleconference meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 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.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Minutes for August 19, 2024, 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, February 4, 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 November 5, 2025, Meeting Minutes

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

     Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

a. Emma Todd; DPSST No. 65491

     Basic Telecommunicator and Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certifications

b. Nicole Silbaugh; DPSST No. 52445

     Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Telecommunicator, and Basic Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certifications

4. Mileena Edwards, DPSST No. 61544; Warm Springs Police Department

     Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

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

     Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

     Presented by Jennifer Howald

6. Agency Updates

7. Next Telecommunications Policy Committee Meeting: May 6, 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.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on January 22, 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 October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

4. Officer John Christopher Kilcullen (DPSST #35147); Eugene Police Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

   Presented by Marie Atwood

5. Battalion Chief Michael Merlino (DPSST #08324); Sutherlin Fire Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Marie Atwood

6. Next meeting – April 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. 

Información en español

Workers and consumers in Oregon now have a new guide for understanding and using their rights to work safely and to protect against fraud thanks to the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) and its partners.

The free publication – “Your Safety and Rights: A Guide for Oregon Workers” – is available online in Spanish and English, with more languages planned. Printed copies may be ordered by email: esource@dcbs.oregon.gov">osha.resource@dcbs.oregon.gov. Oregon OSHA is working with its partners to distribute the guide in communities across the state.

The guide shows workers and consumers the common workplace safety and health hazards, and fraudulent schemes they may face; explains what their employers must do to protect them; illustrates how they can take action to protect themselves; and provides more resources, including a directory of community organizations, regulatory agencies, and services.
 

“We created this guide to be evergreen, available to workers and consumers whenever they need it,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “It includes everything from how to protect yourself from workplace hazards and tips shielding you from financial harm to resources that connect workers and consumers to helpful programs and services.”

Oregon OSHA is a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). The department’s mission is to equitably protect and empower consumers and workers while maintaining a predictable yet innovative regulatory environment for the businesses we regulate. The department’s divisions and programs include the Building Codes Division, Division of Financial Regulation, Multicultural Communications Program, Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, Small Business Ombudsman, Workers’ Compensation Division, and Workers’ Compensation Board.

The guide enhances public education and training efforts by DCBS and its partners in labor, government, business, and insurance.

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

Portland, OR – DOGAMI and other state permitting agencies have issued draft permits for the Grassy Mountain gold mine project and will hold a public hearing for the draft permits on January 29, 2026, from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm PST (5:00 pm – 7:00 pm MST) at the Vale Senior Citizens Center, 100 Longfellow St S, Vale, OR 97918. People can make comments in person at the hearing or submit written comments prior to February 6, 2026, as previously outlined in the draft permit public notice.

The public notice, meeting agenda, and related documents are available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/mlrr/Pages/Calico-GrassyMtn_projectDocuments.aspx

For further information, contact the DOGAMI Albany office at (541) 967-2083 or email: mation.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov">information.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov.

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A pilot program that provides cash and other supports to Oregon youth experiencing homelessness made a significant contribution to their ability to secure stable housing. The supports also enabled youth to achieve independence, according to a report issued by researcher Young People to the Front.  

The Direct Cash Transfer Plus (DCT+) pilot program operates through a partnership between Point Source Youth and the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program (YEHP) within the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). It pairs cash support with housing navigation, education on managing personal finances and other supportive services that are provided through three community partners   ̶   the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), Antfarm and JBarJ Youth Services.

The study by Young People to the Front included 63 of the pilot program’s first 120 participants who completed a series of surveys during the two years they received support. Of those, 94 percent self-reported that they were housed at the end of the program. 

“We are very encouraged by the early results showing that Direct Cash Transfers help youth move beyond survival mode and toward building more stable, independent lives,” said YEHP Program Manager Matthew Rasmussen. “By creating space for emotional stability, financial skills, and rental history, this approach significantly reduces the likelihood of chronic adult homelessness."

The cash support is essential as it helps youth overcome common barriers to stable housing such as a lack of credit history and sufficient income, Rasmussen added. It can be used for rent, deposits, furniture and transportation.

“Oregon’s results confirm what we saw in New York: When you cover the real cost of shared housing directly for two years—and pair it with support—young people stay housed,” said Larry Cohen, co-founder and executive director at Point Source Youth. “This isn’t complicated. Stability takes time, and flexible cash gives young people the breathing room to build it.”

Other findings from the first two years of the pilot program include:

• 72 percent of participants were working or enrolled in school. 
• The number of youth achieving high school diplomas increased by 8.1 percent over the course of the program.
• Participation in financial literacy workshops increased by 23 percent. 

Combined, the supports offer youth an opportunity to change the trajectory of their lives.

“DCT helped me move from survival mode into a place where I could heal, grow, and plan for a sustainable future,” said Gabrielle Huffman of Bend, who participated in the program. “Just one year after completing DCT, I’m in my own place, halfway through a business degree, focused on building a stable, secure foundation for my daughter and myself, and working toward becoming a nonprofit leader who supports her community.”

Direct Cash Transfer Plus operated in Multnomah, Clackamas and Deschutes counties during the initial pilot. Jackson County has since been added for the second group of 120 participants.  Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 24 when they apply for support for a two-year period.  The second group of 120 participants have been selected and the pilot program is not currently accepting new applications. 

Youth in the program work with a case manager to establish self-directed goals that contribute to their long-term housing stability and overall well-being needs. Cash support is provided for up to two years to help meet their ongoing needs as they work to establish stable housing.

Funding for the initial pilot program was provided through an interagency agreement between ODHS and Oregon Housing and Community Services. To help support the second group of participants who are in the current pilot, YEHP received a $1 million philanthropic donation and some funding through Senate Bill 5526.  

Direct Cash Transfer Plus is just one of a variety of services offered through YEHP. 

YEHP is committed to helping young people, ages 14–24, who are experiencing homelessness through a network of community partnerships. These partnerships connect youth to critical resources and services, build trusted relationships, provide access to everyday essentials such as showers, laundry facilities, and academic and employment support, and offer temporary shelter and housing opportunities.

YEHP’s tuition and fee waiver assistance support is also delivering results. From fall of 2023 to current, YEHP has approved 267 tuition and fee waivers for eligible youth experiencing homelessness through partnerships with Oregon’s public universities and community colleges. The universities and colleges agree to waive the tuition and fees for qualifying youth. 

YEHP continues to expand its focus on prevention strategies and housing stability initiatives. The program’s goal is to help youth avoid entering homelessness in the first place and to secure and maintain stable housing, reducing the likelihood of future homelessness as adults.

Learn more about YEHP and other programs and services for youth in Oregon.

Additional resources:

Two-page summary of the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program

Contact ODHS Communications (see above contact) for photos of:

Matt Rasmussen, Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program Manager with the Oregon Department of Human Services

Larry Cohen, co-founder and executive director at Point Source Youth

Gabrielle Huffman, Direct Cash Transfer Plus participant in the initial pilot 

Other quotes from youth in the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program:

“The DCT program is how I'm still alive. If I did not have such support in the beginning of the program I would still be stuck in a homeless pit. DCT gave me a very reliable resource it was the reason I could eat … and had a slice of freedom at the end of the night.”

“I have been able to completely change my life, graduate college, support my family, buy a car, build savings habits and financial literacy.” 

“I left sex work and I was able to focus on healing myself, pay for school expenses, and begin putting the work in starting a small beaded earring and art business.” 

“Without this program I would still be a homeless single parent, struggling to provide even the basics for myself and my child.” 

“Honestly, it just gave me valuable time to be able to figure out my life as a young adult. I don’t know how else to put it. DCT has been a tremendous help.”

Quotes from youth who received tuition assistance through YEHP partnerships:

“I want to thank you again for your help with registering me for the YEHP. I’m excited to share that I’m currently maintaining an A average in both of my property management classes and am hoping to secure an internship by winter to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting. [This] support has given me access to academic opportunities I wouldn’t have been able to afford on my own, and I’m truly grateful for that.”

"I am currently facing a lot of positive change. My job promoted me to case manager for my county. I am super honored and excited for this opportunity, and with it I will be having a larger workload. Along with my promotion, I am attending community college to get my associate [degree] in general studies then transfer to a university to obtain a political science degree. The YEHP Tuition and Fee Waiver helped me with this path."

OHA, Clackamas County confirm new measles case 

January 13, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

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

971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, January 30, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb 13, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@OHA.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">BHRN@OHA.oregon.gov or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

# # #

January 12, 2026

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

State Urges People of Oregon to Act Before Open Enrollment Ends and Beware of Health Coverage Scams

Salem, OR — TK Keen, Oregon’s insurance commissioner, is reminding the people of Oregon that open enrollment for health coverage ends Jan. 15, 2026, and is urging residents to act now to avoid gaps in coverage and protect themselves from scam websites and misleading health plans.

“Quality, affordable health coverage is essential to the well-being of every person in Oregon and their families,” Keen said. “As open enrollment comes to a close, I want people to have accurate information so they can enroll with confidence and avoid being taken advantage of by scammers.”

As the enrollment deadline approaches, state officials warn that fake websites, aggressive sales tactics, and so-called ‘junk’ health plans often target consumers searching for coverage. These plans may appear affordable but frequently do not meet federal standards, offer limited or no coverage for essential services, and can leave people with unexpected medical bills.

People looking for health coverage should watch out for warning signs, including:

• Websites or sales calls claiming to offer “free” or “guaranteed” health insurance
• Requests for payment or personal information before confirming eligibility
• Plans that do not cover essential health benefits such as prescriptions, mental health care, or preventive services
• Short-term or limited-benefit plans marketed as comprehensive insurance

State officials emphasize that the only way to be sure you are enrolling in legitimate, comprehensive coverage is to use trusted sources and trained insurance experts.

“People in Oregon deserve coverage that actually works when they need it,” said Keen. “If a plan sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Residents who miss the open enrollment deadline may have to wait until the next enrollment period unless they qualify for a special enrollment period due to a major life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, or changes in household size.

Help is available. Free, unbiased assistance is offered to help people compare plans, understand financial assistance options, and enroll before the deadline.

For accurate information and enrollment assistance, visit OregonHealthCare.gov or call 855-268-3767 (all relay calls accepted).

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12 de enero de 2026

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

El estado insta a la población de Oregon a actuar antes de que termine la inscripción abierta y a tener cuidado con las estafas de cobertura de salud

Salem, OR — TK Keen, comisionado de seguros de Oregon, recuerda a la población de Oregon que la inscripción abierta para la cobertura de salud termina el 15 de enero de 2026, y insta a los habitantes a actuar ahora para evitar interrupciones en la cobertura y protegerse de sitios web fraudulentos y planes de salud engañosos.

"Una cobertura de salud asequible y de calidad es esencial para el bienestar de cada persona en Oregon y sus familias", afirmó Keen. "A medida que la inscripción abierta llega a su fin, quiero que la gente tenga información precisa para poder inscribirse con confianza y evitar que los estafadores se aprovechen de ellos."

A medida que se acerca la fecha límite de inscripción, las autoridades estatales advierten que sitios web falsos, tácticas de venta agresivas y los llamados planes de salud 'basura' suelen dirigirse a los consumidores que buscan cobertura. Estos planes pueden parecer asequibles, pero con frecuencia no cumplen con los estándares federales, ofrecen cobertura limitada o ninguna para servicios esenciales y pueden dejar a las personas con facturas médicas inesperadas.

Las personas que buscan cobertura de salud deben estar atentas a las señales de advertencia, incluyendo:

• Sitios web o llamadas de ventas que afirman ofrecer un seguro médico "gratuito" o "garantizado"
• Solicitudes de pago o información personal antes de confirmar la elegibilidad
• Planes que no cubren beneficios esenciales de salud como recetas, atención de salud mental o servicios preventivos
• Planes a corto plazo o de prestación limitada comercializados como seguro integral

Las autoridades estatales enfatizan que la única forma de asegurarse de que te inscribes en una cobertura legítima y completa es utilizar fuentes de confianza y expertos en seguros capacitados.

"Las personas en Oregon merecen una cobertura que realmente funcione cuando la necesitan", dijo Keen. "Si un plan suena demasiado bueno para ser verdad, probablemente lo sea."

Los habitantes que no alcancen la fecha límite de inscripción abierta pueden tener que esperar hasta el próximo periodo de inscripción, a menos que cumplan los requisitos para un periodo especial debido a un evento importante en su vida, como perder otra cobertura, mudarse o cambios en el tamaño del hogar.

Hay ayuda disponible. Se ofrece asistencia gratuita e imparcial para ayudar a las personas a comparar planes, entender las opciones de asistencia financiera y inscribirse antes de la fecha límite.

Para obtener información precisa y ayuda con la inscripción, visita CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov o llama al 855-268-3767 (se aceptan todas las llamadas de retransmisión).

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January 12, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

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

971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority, Fora Health expand recovery housing in southeast Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) joined Fora Health and community organizations at a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 9 for a new supportive housing development made possible by state investments that expand where people can get care. When completed in 2027, the new facility, near Fora Health’s outpatient treatment center, will provide 46 new recovery housing beds in 23 rooms.

Ashley Thirstrup, chief of staff for Oregon Health Authority, delivers remarks during the groundbreaking for Fora Home on Jan. 9 in Portland. OHA provided $4 million in funding for the housing complex, which will support people in recovery from substance use disorder.

“Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires stability, dignity and a real chance to rebuild,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This project at Fora Health brings together housing and treatment in a way that meets people where they are and supports long-term recovery. By investing in supportive housing like this, Oregon is strengthening our behavioral health system and helping more people transition from treatment to lasting stability in their lives and in our communities.”

“Stable housing is essential to recovery and to the overall health of our communities,” said OHA’s Behavioral Health Director Ebony Clarke. “This supportive housing facility represents exactly the kind of investment we need—one that expands housing capacity, creates accessible pathways through the behavioral health continuum and supports people at a vulnerable transition point. OHA is proud to support Fora Health on a project that offers hope, dignity and real opportunity for long-term recovery.”

Fora Home, a new supportive housing development will be located near Fora Health’s outpatient center at 10230 SE Cherry Blossom Drive in southeast Portland.

Fora Health Chief Executive Officer Devarshi Bajpai said the project addresses both the addiction and housing crisis at the same time.

“This facility will give people completing treatment a safe, supportive place to live while they continue their recovery journey,” he said. “With stable housing and access to clinical care, peer support and community resources, individuals can build stronger foundations for their futures and successfully reintegrate into the community.”

Ashley Thirstrup, chief of staff for Oregon Health Authority, joins dignitaries for the groundbreaking of Fora Home located in southeast Portland. The facility will give people a supportive place to live while on their recovery journey. The housing facility is expected to open in 2027 and will provide 46 new recovery housing beds.

OHA is providing funds through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and is part of a multi-partner collaboration. The 20,000-square-foot development is supported by a coalition of partners including Multnomah County, OHA, Portland Clean Energy Fund, Centene Foundation, Trillium Community Health Plan and the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, as well as a recovery house developed in partnership with Transcending Hope.

The new facility is at 10230 SE Cherry Blossom Drive in southeast Portland.

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The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via zoom at 9:00 a.m. on Jan. 26. Its agenda includes program updates and review and discussion of the draft 2026 Statewide Oregon Heritage Plan.
 

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

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

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

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

Salem, OR – The Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) is part of Oregon’s statewide land use planning system that is intended to facilitate housing production, affordability and choice to meet housing needs for Oregonians statewide, outlined by House Bill 2001.

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services published the Office of Economic Analysis’ 2026 Production Targets and Adopted Methodology. The report presents both the final methodology and the initial statewide and regional results. The OHNA report will be updated and released annually by Dec. 31.

For more information on OHNA, visit the Office of Economic Analysis webpage.

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Chris McFarland stands outside his office at the Benton Health Center in Corvallis, Ore. McFarland works as a counselor, supporting individuals with serious mental illness through community-based care. (Photo courtesy of Benton County)

 

Chris McFarland’s path to public service was shaped by hardship, resilience and a deep understanding of what it means to live on the margins. 

 

Today, McFarland is a certified alcohol and drug counselor I and qualified mental health professional with the Benton County Health Department, Behavioral Health Division. He serves on the Assertive Community Treatment team, providing intensive, community-based behavioral health and substance use disorder services to individuals with serious mental illness—many of whom are experiencing homelessness and repeated contact with crisis and emergency systems. 

 

The work is demanding and deeply personal. For McFarland, it hits close to home. 

 

Clients allow ACT team members into the most vulnerable parts of their lives, McFarland said, sharing fears, losses and hopes that are often hidden from the rest of the world. He said one of the things he is most proud of is when clients tell him they finally feel heard, respected and treated like a person, not a diagnosis or a case file. Hearing that, he said, is a reminder that showing up consistently and leading with empathy are what truly matters. 

 

McFarland joined the U.S. Army in 1986 as a “homeless 17-year-old high school dropout”, hoping to find direction and stability. With limited options, he served as a light infantry soldier with the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division. He completed basic and advanced infantry training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was stationed at Fort Drum, New York which is known for some of the Army’s toughest training conditions.

 

McFarland said it left a lasting impact. 

 

“The military taught me how far I can push myself, physically and mentally,” he said. “It taught me discipline, how to focus, how to take care of the person next to you, and that ‘no’ or ‘I can’t’ isn’t an option when something needs to get done.” 

 

After leaving the Army, McFarland’s life took a difficult turn. He spent more than a decade cycling through homelessness, substance use, incarceration and violence, ultimately serving time in prison from 1997 to 2000. Those experiences, he said, now inform how he approaches his work on the ACT team. 

 

“I’ve lived the chaos that many of our clients are living,” he said. “I know what it’s like to be stigmatized, discarded and forgotten. Those experiences didn’t break me—they shaped me.” 

McFarland initially pursued a degree in psychology, later shifting to public health, believing he did not want to work as a counselor. That changed during an internship at a residential drug and alcohol treatment facility for adolescents. 

 

“That experience changed everything,” he said. “I realized I didn’t just enjoy counseling. I was good at it. More importantly, I realized I could use my lived experience to support people who felt invisible.” 

 

On the ACT team, McFarland works where clients are, be that in shelters, on the street, in hospitals or navigating court and crisis systems. The model emphasizes relationship-based care, harm reduction and long-term engagement. 

 

Meghan Carlson, a qualified mental health professional with the ACT team, said McFarland’s lived experience and openness about his journey have had a lasting impact not only on clients, but on the team itself. 

 

“Chris’s willingness to share his lived experience with us as clinicians has really changed how many of us approach client care,” Carlson said. “He has helped reshape how our ACT team functions, and in my 12 years working with this team, I can honestly say it’s been for the better.” 

 

That impact is reflected in how he works with clients day to day. 

 

“Chris meets people exactly where they are,” said Carlson. “He listens without judgment, shows up consistently and never loses sight of the person behind the diagnosis.” 

 

County Administrator Rachel McEneny, who has spent time in the field observing McFarland as he worked directly with clients, said his approach reflects the values Benton County strives to uphold. 

 

“Spending the day riding along with Chris and his colleagues in the field was a powerful and important experience for me as county administrator,” said McEneny. “Their work takes them everywhere from the correctional facility to city parks, the hospital and the Corvallis Daytime Drop-In Center. The experience underscored the difficulty and complexity of the roles Chris has to juggle. It requires unique skills, compassion and understanding.” 

 

McFarland said working for Benton County feels like a culmination of everything his life has taught him. 

 

“After living so many years in survival mode, being able to serve my community and help people find stability and dignity is incredibly meaningful,” he said. “This work feeds my soul. I honestly believe this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.” 

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De la supervivencia al servicio: Chris McFarland aporta su experiencia personal al equipo ACT del Condado de Benton 

Chris McFarland posa frente a su oficina en el Centro de Salud de Benton en Corvallis, Oregón. McFarland trabaja como consejero, dando apoyo a personas con enfermedades mentales graves a través de servicios de atención comunitaria. (Foto cortesía del Condado de Benton) 

 

La trayectoria de Chris McFarland en el servicio público ha estado marcada por las dificultades, la resiliencia y una profunda comprensión de lo que significa vivir al margen de la sociedad.

 

Actualmente, McFarland es profesional de salud mental y consejero certificado en alcoholismo y drogadicción de nivel I en la División de Salud Mental del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton. Forma parte del equipo de Tratamiento Asertivo Comunitario (ACT por sus siglas en inglés), que brinda servicios intensivos de salud mental y tratamiento de trastornos por consumo de sustancias en la comunidad a personas con enfermedades mentales graves, muchas de las cuales se encuentran sin hogar y tienen contacto frecuente con los sistemas de crisis y emergencia. 

El trabajo es exigente y profundamente personal. Para McFarland, definitivamente es algo personal. 

 

Los clientes permiten que los miembros del equipo de ACT conozcan los aspectos más vulnerables de sus vidas, explicó McFarland, compartiendo miedos, pérdidas y esperanzas que a menudo ocultan al resto del mundo. Dijo que una de las cosas que más le enorgullecen es cuando los clientes le dicen que por fin se sienten escuchados, respetados y tratados como personas, no como un diagnóstico o un expediente. Escuchar eso le recuerda que estar presente de forma constante y actuar con empatía es lo que realmente importa para él. 

 

McFarland se enlistó al Ejército de los Estados Unidos en 1986, cuando era “un joven de 17 años sin hogar que había abandonado la escuela preparatoria”, con la esperanza de encontrar rumbo y estabilidad. Con pocas opciones, sirvió como soldado de infantería ligera en el 1er Batallón del 87º Regimiento de Infantería, de la 10ª División de Montaña. Completó el entrenamiento básico y avanzado de infantería en Fort Benning, Georgia y fue destinado a Fort Drum en Nueva York, un lugar conocido por tener algunas de las condiciones de entrenamiento más exigentes del Ejército. 

 

McFarland dijo que esta experiencia le dejó una huella imborrable. 

 

“El ejército me enseñó hasta dónde puedo llegar, física y mentalmente”, dijo. “Me enseñó disciplina, a concentrarme, a cuidar de la persona que está a mi lado y que ‘no’ o ‘no puedo’ no son opciones cuando hay que hacer algo”. 

 

Después de dejar el ejército, la vida de McFarland enfrentó una etapa difícil de su vida. Pasó más de una década por períodos de falta de vivienda, consumo de sustancias, encarcelamiento y violencia y finalmente cumplió condena en prisión de 1997 a 2000. Esas experiencias ahora influyen en la manera en que hace su trabajo en el equipo ACT. 

 

“He vivido el caos que viven muchos de nuestros clientes”, dijo McFarland. “Sé lo que se siente el ser estigmatizado, marginado y olvidado. Esas experiencias no me destruyeron, me moldearon”. 

 

Inicialmente, McFarland estudió psicología, pero luego se cambió a salud pública, creyendo que no quería trabajar como consejero. Eso cambió cuando trabajó como pasante estudiantil en un centro residencial de tratamiento de drogas y alcohol para adolescentes. 

 

“Esa experiencia lo cambió todo”, dijo.“Me di cuenta de que no solo disfrutaba de la consejería, sino que era bueno en ello. Y lo que es más importante, me di cuenta de que podía usar mi experiencia para apoyar a personas que se sentían invisibles”. 

 

En el equipo ACT, McFarland trabaja donde se encuentran los clientes, ya sea en refugios, en la calle, en hospitales o navegando por los sistemas judiciales y de atención de crisis. El modelo enfatiza la atención basada en las relaciones, la reducción de riesgos y el compromiso a largo plazo.

 

Meghan Carlson, profesional de salud mental cualificada del equipo ACT, afirmó que la experiencia personal de McFarland y su franqueza al compartir su historia han tenido un impacto duradero no solo en los clientes, sino también en el propio equipo. 

 

“La disposición de Chris a compartir su experiencia personal con nosotros, los profesionales clínicos, ha cambiado la forma en que muchos de nosotros manejamos la atención al cliente”, dijo Carlson. “Ha contribuido a transformar el funcionamiento de nuestro equipo ACT y en mis 12 años trabajando con este equipo, puedo decir con toda sinceridad que ha sido para mejorar”. 

 

Ese impacto se refleja en la forma en que trabaja con los clientes a diario. 

 

“Chris se relaciona con las personas tal como son”, dijo Carlson. “Escucha sin juzgar, está presente de forma constante y nunca pierde de vista a la persona que hay detrás del diagnóstico”. 

La Administradora del Condado, Rachel McEneny, quien ha pasado tiempo en el campo observando a McFarland mientras trabajaba directamente con los clientes, dijo que su enfoque refleja los valores que el Condado de Benton se esfuerza por mantener. “Pasar el día acompañando a Chris y sus colegas en el campo fue una experiencia poderosa e importante para mí como Administradora del Condado”, dijo McEneny. “Su trabajo los lleva a todas partes, desde la cárcel hasta los parques de la ciudad, el hospital y el Corvallis Daytime Drop-In Center. La experiencia reveló la dificultad y la complejidad de las funciones que Chris debe desempeñar. Se necesitan habilidades únicas, compasión y comprensión”. 

 

McFarland dijo que trabajar para el Condado de Benton se siente como la culminación de todo lo que la vida le ha enseñado. 

 

“Después de vivir tantos años en modo de supervivencia, poder servir a mi comunidad y ayudar a las personas a encontrar estabilidad y dignidad es increíblemente significativo”, dijo. “Este trabajo alimenta mi alma. Sinceramente, creo que este es exactamente el lugar donde debo estar”. 

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Law Library this week announced the addition of a new self-help kit: Tenant Defense Against Eviction Lawsuit.

“The kit includes forms and instructions for tenants facing an eviction case who have been served with a Summons and Complaint by their landlord,” said Maria Sosnowski, Clark County Law Librarian. “People can download the kit at no cost from the Law Library website.”

This kit was created by the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program using grant funding from Superior Court. 

Information on Clark County Law Library’s wide variety of self-help kits including ordering instructions is available on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/law-library/self-help-form-kits.

The Law Library provides a professional legal collection and is open to the public. The library is located on the first floor of the Clark County Courthouse, 1200 Franklin St. Learn more at https://clark.wa.gov/law-library/law-library-overview. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is updating the ADA transition plan for transportation facilities to meet current standards and comply with requirements of the county’s comprehensive growth management plan update. The purpose of the plan is to provide access to transportation facilities for people with disabilities.

The community is invited to learn more at an open house on Jan. 22.

Transportation ADA Transition Plan Open House

6-8 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 22

Felida Elementary School, 2700 NW 119th St.

Presentation and Q&A begin at 6:30 p.m.

More information about the project can be found at clark.wa.gov/community-planning/ada-transition-plan-transportation-facilities.

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

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

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

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

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will focus its first meeting of 2026 on housing. The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21.

The COA will center their 2026 “Fireside Chat’ series on chapters 3 (Housing) and 4 (Mobility) of the Aging Readiness Plan with guests ranging from government and service organizations to private sector experts.

Meetings occur on the third Wednesday of each month and begin at 4:30 pm. All meetings are 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 Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. − Clark County District Court is pleased to announce that, effective Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, the court will begin operations from its new location at 210 E. 13th St. in downtown Vancouver.

This relocation supports the court’s ongoing commitment to improve public access, modernize services, and enhance operational efficiency for residents, legal professionals, and community partners. The new facility has been designed to better serve the needs of the community and provide a more functional and accessible space for court proceedings and administrative functions.

Construction and preparation of the new building have been completed in collaboration with county leadership and justice partners, and all District Court operations will transition on schedule.

District Court operations at the current courthouse location at 1200 Franklin St. will continue through Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, to ensure continuity of services. After the move, District Court services previously offered at the Franklin Street location will be available at the new 13th Street facility beginning Feb. 2.

Clark County Superior Court operations will remain at the courthouse.

Key information for court users:

• All scheduled hearings on or after Feb. 2, 2026, will take place at the new 210 E. 13th St. location.
• The public counter, records, and related administrative offices will be operational at the new facility on Feb. 2.
• Contact details, phone numbers, and the court’s general mailing address remain unchanged unless otherwise noted on the District Court’s official website.
• On-street, metered parking is available near the new location.

For updates related to the move, changes in procedures, or questions regarding court services, please visit the Clark County District Court website or contact the court’s public service line at 564-397-2424.

ST. HELENS, Ore. [Jan. 15, 2026] — The Columbia County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution formally censuring Commissioner Casey Garrett during a public meeting on January 14, 2026.

The resolution follows prior actions taken by the Board to address conduct-related concerns and reflects the Board’s determination that certain actions by Commissioner Garrett did not align with established expectations for commissioners or with County policies governing staff interaction and governance processes.

The Board’s action affirms its commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace, upholding clear lines of authority, and ensuring that County operations are carried out in accordance with adopted policies and procedures. The resolution took effect immediately upon adoption and has been entered into the official meeting record.

A copy of the resolution is posted on the County’s website and maintained by the County Clerk in accordance with public records requirements.

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SALEM, OR — Marion County has submitted two additional comment letters urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to revise its Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the Willamette Valley System, citing major deficiencies in the agency’s analysis of water quality, local infrastructure impacts, and fish mortality if Detroit Lake is drained below normal levels. This includes the risk of a kokanee salmon die‑off similar to the mass mortality event at Green Peter Reservoir in 2023.

In its January 13 submissions, the County emphasized that the Army Corps’ plans in the SEIS fail to fully assess and mitigate the foreseeable environmental consequences of a draining Detroit Lake. One of the letters focuses on the severe impacts to municipal drinking‑water systems, particularly slow‑sand filtration systems used by the cities of Salem and Stayton. The County warned that the fine sediment released during a “deep drawdown” that drains the lake below normal levels could cause irreversible damage to these systems, potentially shutting down potable water production for entire cities.

A second letter highlighted the severe fish mortality risks associated with draining—risks the SEIS acknowledges but does not prevent. The County pointed to the 2023 Green Peter Reservoir drawdown, where more than one million kokanee salmon were killed due to barotrauma as fish were forced through drastic pressure changes at the dam due to low water levels.

“The Corps’ own fisheries biologists have already documented the catastrophic consequences of deep drawdowns,” the County wrote. “The SEIS must fully account for these impacts before any similar action is taken at Detroit Lake.”

The County also noted that the Army Corps did not evaluate how large‑scale fish death could affect ESA‑listed species that rely on those fish as part of their diet, including the endangered gray wolf, which is a required component of federal environmental review.

“The loss of over a million Kokanee salmon at Green Peter wasn’t theoretical,” said Commissioner Colm Willis, Chair. “It was real, it was catastrophic, and it was preventable.

“Detroit Lake should not be the next site for a preventable kokanee massacre. The Corps should revise its plans to ensure our communities and environment are protected.” 

The Battle Ground Police Department is proud to announce the release of its newly redesigned badge unveiled during the January 5^th City Council meeting.  The new badge reflects both the department’s enduring traditions and its shared commitment to the community it serves.

The redesign was developed with input from every police department employee, making it a truly department-wide effort. From sworn officers to civilian professionals, team members contributed ideas and feedback to ensure the badge represents the values, pride, and identity shared across the organization.

Badge Design

The new badge features a brushed silver finish and incorporates imagery that reflects the local landscape and community identity. The background includes depictions of Mount St. Helens and Battle Ground Lake, framed by a grove of Western hemlocks, the official state tree of Washington.  At the center of the badge, a bald eagle is displayed alongside the United States flag and the City of Battle Ground flag. The badge is bordered by the words “Battle Ground Police,” and includes a banner identifying the officer’s rank and displays the City’s year of incorporation, 1951.

“The police badge carries tremendous significance,” said Police Chief Dennis Flynn. “It is a symbol of public trust, responsibility, and service. Every officer who dons it does so with the understanding that they represent the citizens they serve, and with a vow to honor, every day, what that badge stands for.”

The collaborative effort respects the contributions of past members whose service and dedication helped shape the foundation of the department. The new badge represents a continuation of that legacy and the values carried forward with the next generation of officers.

The Battle Ground Police Department will begin transitioning to the new badge this month (Janaury 2026).

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Fire Department and Marion County Health and Human Services will host a press conference to announce the launch of the REACH (Rapid Engagement, Assessment & Community Health) Team.
 

Date: January 20, 2026
Time: 9 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: Salem Fire Department, Fire Station 1, 370 Trade Street SE

Scheduled speakers:

• Opening Remarks, Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth
• Salem City Mayor Julie Hoy
• Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell
• Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke
• Marion County Behavioral Health Crisis Services Director Debbie Wells
• Closing Remarks, Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth

Following the press conference, members of the REACH Team will be available to discuss the program and participate in photos with the response vehicle and equipment.

New REACH Team: Paramedic, EMT and Mental Health Co-Response

The REACH Team will address the growing number of 911 calls driven by behavioral health, substance use, and other complex social needs that traditional emergency response alone cannot resolve. REACH provides a more appropriate response by pairing medical and behavioral health expertise to engage individuals early, connect them to services, and break the cycle of repeated emergency calls. This approach is intended to improve outcomes for the community, reduce strain on the 911 system, reduce referrals to the emergency room, and help ensure Fire and EMS crews remain available for the most serious emergencies.

Safe Clean and Healthy Initiative

On October 13, 2025, Salem City Council passed a supplemental budget to advance the Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem initiative following four months of City Council, resident, business community, and service provider conversations to enhance safety, cleanliness, and health in the downtown and northeast Salem.  These two areas of Salem experience higher volumes of requests for police support and emergency medical response.

Key efforts of the initiative include:

• Safe
  • Funding two additional Homeless Services Team police officers to expand coverage to seven days per week to better connect people living unsheltered in our community to available services and shelter. The HST officers provide proactive policing and have familiarity working with unsheltered populations
• Clean
  • Expanding cleaning services in high-response areas to further improve health and safety from four to seven days each week, to provide more consistent sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas The Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) team works in response to community reports to ensure health and livability of our outdoor spaces
• Healthy
  • Piloting Salem Fire and Community Health – Co-Response Model, that will deploy integrated teams consisting of a paramedic, EMT and Marion County mental health clinician to incidents involving emotional disturbances, overdoses and other health emergencies while also conducting proactive outreach to prevent emergencies before they occur 

On November 4, 2025, Marion County’s Board of Commissioners approved funding for a mental health associate as part of the community health response pilot program following Council’s October funding action. 

A parking map is attached.

Salem, Ore. — One street south of Capitol State Park will be closed Jan. 19 for a planned event. Travelers and pedestrians are asked to be aware of the closures and plan other routes or schedules if necessary.

Court Street NE between 12^th Street NE and Winter Street NE will be closed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 19. No additional closures are planned.

Drivers traveling west through downtown Salem should expect increased pedestrian traffic and some delays on Court Street NE. Temporary signage indicating road closures and lane restrictions will be in place.

Drivers are asked to plan accordingly and seek alternate routes during the listed event times. Please drive safely and watch for an increase in pedestrians in the area.

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

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is asking the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to include additional safeguards as it continues to plan for annual deep drawdowns of the Detroit Reservoir to improve downstream passage of Endangered Species Act-protected fish beginning later this year. The drawdowns will result in high levels of turbidity, which creates significant risk to the City’s drinking water treatment plant as it draws water from the North Santiam River downriver from the Detroit Reservoir.

The Corps’ current plan addresses many of the concerns City staff have expressed since learning of the planned drawdowns last January, including significant commitments such as beginning the drawdowns closer to late November or early December when the demand on Salem’s water supply is lower, conducting the drawdowns in a series of deeper steps over several years to gauge drinking water impacts, and limiting the drawdowns duration to two weeks.

However, City staff remain concerned about the absence of turbidity triggers — ways to identify corrective actions depending on levels of murkiness in the water. Turbidity will make filtration difficult or impossible. Accompanying action measures are missing from the Willamette Valley System Operations and Maintenance Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement issued by the Corps of Engineers in November 2025.

“The purpose of the turbidity trigger is to protect human health, the City’s residents and businesses who rely on Salem to provide safe drinking water, and to protect the City’s water treatment system,” said Krishna Namburi, Salem city manager. “It is critical that the Corps include a plan of action for how they will adjust their drawdowns if turbidity is too high to provide safe drinking water.”

This recommendation is based on years of operational experience coupled with scientific research conducted over the past year.

“Clear triggers and actions are essential for the City’s operational and contingency planning,” Namburi said in the January 12, 2026, letter. “Establishing mutually acceptable triggers and action measures also represents the best way forward for providing assurances to our current and future regional customers that safe drinking water will continue to be reliably delivered.”

The City of Salem remains committed to working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and others to evaluate and implement measures that support downstream passage of juvenile fish species, protect habitat and water quality, ensure water demands are met, and provide for the many users of the North Santiam River.

The drawdown of Detroit Reservoir is detailed in a Biological Opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service in December 2024 as required by the Endangered Species Act. The opinion directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to lower the elevation in Detroit Reservoir to a level not seen since the dam was built over 70 years ago.
 
The purpose of the deep drawdowns is to improve downstream passage of ESA-protected fish. However, the drawdowns will also result in high levels of suspended sediments — fine particles of clay, silt and other matter — in the North Santiam River downstream of the dam. High levels of suspended sediment over an extended period of time present a significant risk to the operation of the City’s water treatment plant, which draws water from the North Santiam River at its location on Geren Island.
 
High levels of suspended sediment in the intake water will require the City to stop using river water at its water treatment plant, possibly for several weeks. During this period, the City will use other water sources to meet the anticipated demand. These alternative sources include existing and new groundwater wells on Geren Island, the Aquifer Storage and Recovery facility in South Salem, and an emergency supply of drinking water through a connection with the City of Keizer. These sources should meet the expected water demand during the drawdown and recovery period in 2026.
 
Over the past year, the City has taken several steps to prepare for the drawdowns. These include declaring an emergency in July 2025 to allow staff to expedite the construction of additional groundwater wells at Geren Island, adding an additional pump station connection with the City of Keizer and accelerating filter re-sanding to better withstand above-normal turbidity.

New measures will not only increase our alternate supply for the drawdown, but also will make our drinking water system more resilient in the face of other disruptions, such as the recent flooding.
 
Learn more about Salem’s Drinking Water at CityofSalem.net/drinking-water.

• Installation of new downtown trash receptacles will occur in stages between January and February. Installation began January 12, 2026.

Salem, Ore. – The installation of new trash receptacles in downtown Salem began this week. These will replace receptacles installed over 20 years ago that are worn and unable to handle the current trash disposal needs.
 

“This project comes at a crucial time as we strive to enhance the cleanliness of downtown, directly addressing the concerns raised by our businesses and visitors,” said Dana DeKlyen, Urban Development Assistant Director.

The new, improved trash receptacle design will eliminate the ability to display trash on the exterior, feature a larger opening, a chute for disposal and a flat, smooth surface that will be easier to clean. The new design will also allow the possibility of a future art wrap, much like the downtown utility box wraps.

There are no current plans to reduce the number of downtown receptacles, instead they will be redistributed for broader accessibility.

This project is made possible by Urban Renewal funding dedicated to Riverfront Downtown capital projects and is part of the multi-year Downtown Salem Streetscape project.

# # #

Bacteriological analysis of drinking water samples collected Jan. 10 confirm the water is free from coliform bacteria and is safe to drink.

A Portland General Electric power outage in the S4 water pressure zone in South Salem caused a temporary loss of water pressure when a safety device at the Davis Road Water Pump Station shut down the pumps. Although the emergency generator started as designed, the pumps did not restart until City staff reset the safety system. Because a loss of pressure can allow contaminants to enter the water system, the Oregon Health Authority requires the City to issue a precautionary boil-water notice in such situations. This notice applied only to the affected homes in the S4 pressure zone.

Oregon Health Authority rules require a Boil Water Notice be issued as a precautionary measure if system pressure is lost. This notice was distributed directly to the homes affected.

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 January 4 to January 7, 2026, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on January 4 and two oocysts were detected in each of the samples collected on January 6 and January 7. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the sample collected on January 5. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on December 31, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two 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. Tyler Holman

Salem Man sentenced to Life for

Murder in the Second Degree

Marion County: 25CR06138

Salem, OR – January 14, 2026 - Today, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Channing Bennett sentenced Tyler Holman (age 40) to life in the Oregon Department of Corrections with a 25-year minimum before parole eligibility. On January 5, 2025, Holman had pled guilty to Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm before Marion County Circuit Cout Judge Jodie Bureta pursuant to a settlement negotiation with the state.

In the early morning hours of January 27, 2025, Holman was involved in a single vehicle crash in Polk County. Polk County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the scene, and during their contact with Holman, they concluded that he was intoxicated. Holman was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. A tow truck responded to the scene to remove the defendant’s overturned vehicle, and the driver of the tow truck discovered a body wrapped in plastic which had been flung from the defendant’s vehicle during the crash.

An investigation by the Oregon State Medical Examiner later identified the body as the defendant’s ex-wife, Ashley Gandalfi (34), who is also the mother of Holman’s child. The Medical Examiner determined that the cause of her death was a gunshot wound to the head and not the traffic crash.

The Salem Police Department conducted the investigation, and after securing a search warrant to search the defendant’s home they found plastic wrap, bloody paper towels, and the pistol used by the defendant. Surveillance camera security footage revealed the victim entering the defendant’s house, and early the next morning being carried out, wrapped in plastic, by the defendant and his friend.

Holman’s friend was Logan Lowery Wilkens.  Based on his assistance, he was charged with one count of Abuse of a Corpse in the Second Degree and one count of Tampering with Physical Evidence.  Wilkens pled guilty to both counts on March 3, 2025, and his sentencing is scheduled on January 22, 2026, also before Judge Bennett.  (Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR07441).

Both cases were prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy who said, “thanks to a thorough investigation by the Salem Police Department, we were able to hold a violent offender accountable for an atrocious crime in this community.”  The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank all the investigators in this case, specifically Detective Mike Vega, for their excellent investigation in this matter.

Holman and the victim had a mutual daughter, who is currently 8-years-old.  She is currently living with family. Through a statement read by an adult friend, their daughter made a victim impact statement at sentencing.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank Liberty House for their assistance at many stages during this investigation.  Law enforcement and the victim’s family needed guidance on how to appropriately notify the victim’s daughter of the death, which was provided by Liberty House; Liberty House conducted a forensic interview with the child and offered significant on-going support; finally, Liberty House assisted the District Attorney’s Office in preparing the child for the emotional and complex court process, a trauma the child will no longer have to experience with today’s sentencing.  “I am very appreciative of Liberty House for its collaboration in difficult cases such as these” Murphy said.  “With Liberty House’s on-going support, I have enough experience to know that this little girl has the tools she needs to get past this horrible, avoidable tragedy. I hope the victim’s family finds the peace they deserve.”  

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

###

January 16, 2026

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County Jury found two men guilty of sodomy and rape for an attack they committed in the Portland area back in the year 2000. It's the second time the men have been tried and convicted for the crime. 

The defendants are Michael Lavon Rhone and Mathew Charles Monhead.

They were charged with Rape in the First Degree and Sodomy in the First Degree.

The original trial in 2001 found them guilty  but with a split jury verdict of 10 guilty and two not guilty. The split verdict was allowed under law at the time and the men went to prison.

However, The Ramos v. Louisiana decision by the US Supreme Court in 2020 found that non unanimous verdicts for felony cases violated the Sixth Amendment of the constitution. The subsequent outcome of the Watkins v. Ackley Oregon Supreme Court case in 2022 meant that anyone convicted of a felony by a non unanimous jury was entitled to a new trial, which the men requested.

Deputy District Attorney Quinn Zemel led the new trial for the state. After the conviction he said:

“I am proud of the work of law enforcement that made this re-trial possible. This verdict will allow the defendants to continue to be held accountable and provides a continued sense of justice for the victim.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Sergeant Jason Sery with the Beaverton Police Department. He was a Portland Police Officer at the time of the crime. He spotted the attack underway and arrested both defendants. Sgt. Sery returned to court to testify in the case. Afterward he said: “I’m incredibly grateful for all the hard work and investigation that went into this retrial.”

THE FACTS:

On August 9th, 2000 a woman was walking home in the Portland area and was attacked in an alley by the defendants who were 17-years-old at the time. Both were strangers to her. The two restrained, raped and sodomized their victim. After being convicted in 2001 the defendants served their 200 month prison sentences. As a result they face no new jail time from this verdict. 

                                                          ###MCDA###

1/16/26 

Portland, OR-

Portland police assisted investigators from the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Auto Theft Task Force in arresting a man accused of being a prolific utility trailer thief on January 15, 2026.

Nickolas (spelled in some court documents as Nicholas) Alexander Edwards faces multiple charges and multiple cases in the criminal justice system in Multnomah, Washington and Marion Counties in Oregon and Clark County in Washington. 

Edwards was arraigned in Multnomah County court January 16, 2026 and held on $100-thousand-dollars bail. 

The current set of cases in Multnomah County were investigated by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Auto Theft Task Force in collaboration with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the PC Affidavit in case 25CR17473, Edwards stole a utility trailer on March 4, 2025, from a victim while on GPS monitoring. He was being monitored as part of an earlier case filed against him in Clark County. 

The charges in case 25CR23196 stem from a Clark County investigation from February of 2024. Notably, in 2023 and 2024, Clark County had linked Edwards to dozens of trailer thefts totaling losses close to $200,000 between loss of property and items taken from community members’ trailers.

For months he is alleged to have stolen multiple community members’ trailers and posted those stolen trailers for sale online through OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace. Edwards also is alleged to have entered other peoples’ property to commit thefts. The investigation revealed that the defendant established a pattern of selling stolen trailers for cash and then subsequently stealing the same trailer from the person to whom he sold it. 

In case 26CR03172, Edwards is accused of stealing a cargo trailer worth $6,000 on October 19, 2025 from the area of SE 122nd. According to the affidavit, the owner later found his trailer advertised on OfferUp under an account associated with Edwards. Edwards’ GPS tracker showed him at the location during the theft. 

According to the affidavit, that same trailer was sold to someone in Beaverton and then stolen again on October 25, 2025. The affidavit states that Edwards’ GPS tracker showed him at the location selling the trailer and also at the location when the trailer was stolen in Beaverton on October 25, 2025.

On November 3, 2025, another victim reported their utility trailer, a Wells Cargo 2001 trailer worth $4,000, was stolen. According to the affidavit Edwards’ GPS again showed he was at the location at the time of the theft.

On November 10, 2025, another victim reported their utility trailer stolen. It had a reported value of $6,000. Investigators checked Edwards’ GPS tracker which showed him at the address of the stolen trailer at the time it  was stolen.

Edwards is also accused of stealing a utility trailer January 14, 2026 from a residence on NE Prescott in the Portland area. Investigators checked his GPS and found he was at the location when the trailer was stolen.

Investigators were able to locate Edwards and arrest him after he recklessly eluded police and committed a hit and run with a stolen cargo trailer attached to his vehicle.

Anyone who thinks they might be a victim of similar thefts, please email us at:

DA@MCDA.US

MCDA Auto Theft Task Force would like to thank our law enforcement partners who worked these cases including Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police East Precinct, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

                                                           ###MCDA###

Case: 23CR16979

Portland, OR                                                                 January 12, 2026

This morning Judge Christopher Ramras sentenced Jacob Abel Ramos to 48 months in prison after his conviction on 51 crimes relating to graffiti and the defacing of public property around the city of Portland. 

After the sentencing, Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Bijal Patel said:

“Vandals engage in graffiti without regard for the damage to property and the community. This prison sentence sends a loud warning to vandals that there are serious consequences for these crimes. We are grateful that this defendant was held accountable.”

Ramos is pending sentencing January 26, 2026, for his convictions related to a ghost-gun manufacturing operation discovered during a search warrant execution at his residence for the graffiti crimes.  

Here is our earlier release on the case when Ramos was convicted:

PROLIFIC PORTLAND AREA TAGGER CONVICTED ON 51 COUNTS 11/19/25

PROLIFIC PORTLAND AREA TAGGER CONVICTED ON 51 COUNTS

Release date: 11/20/25

Case: 23CR16979

Portland, OR- A Portland man who defaced murals in the city with his graffiti tag “BIER”, was found guilty on dozens of counts of criminal mischief on Wednesday November 19, 2025.

Judge Christopher Ramras found Jacob Abel Ramos guilty on five counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree and 46 counts of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree.

Our office will ask the court to impose a substant

ial prison sentence pursuant to the repeat offender statute under Oregon law.

The case was prosecuted for the state by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Bijal Patel. After the convictions she said:

“The defendant caused significant damage to community property and was particularly vindictive toward local artists and businesses. This verdict reflects our commitment to protecting local businesses and public spaces from vandalism. This prosecution was a community effort; we thank the victims for their support and cooperation.”

 The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Officer Nathan Kirby-Glatkowski and Officer Amelia Flohr for their dedication to justice and their hard work on this case.

THE FACTS:

On April 27, 2022,  two graffiti vandals spray painted tags over murals on the front of Platinum Records Lights and Sound at 104 SW 2nd Ave in Portland. An initial investigation identified one of the suspects. A second person was eventually served with a search warrant and evidence found on her phone led to the identification of Jacob Ramos as the second person involved in tagging Platinum Records Lights and Sound.

Ramos used the tag “Bier” which law enforcement was tracking across numerous locations through the city as a recurring graffiti tag.

Investigators found text messages on the phone which included a discussion that they will continue to tag and encourage graffiti peers to join in the continued tagging.

On April 11, 2023 officers executed a search warrant on the defendant’s home.

In the garage investigators found more than 60 partially used cans of spray paint, dozens of spray canister caps and a glass framed photograph hanging on the wall showing an abandoned building vandalized with the tag “Bier” on the front.

Officers also found numerous gun related materials and firearms and a 3D printer which appeared to be paused as it was making a gun part.

Ramos is a felon and could not legally own firearms. He was separately tried and convicted on those charges.

                                                                   ###MCDA###

MEDFORD, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for attempting to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine purchased from the dark web.   

Dominick Jeffrey Aragon, 32, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in February 2025, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) task force intercepted a parcel addressed to Aragon’s residence containing approximately one ounce of cocaine. In March 2025, they intercepted a second parcel destined for Aragon at the same address that contained two ounces of cocaine.

The investigation continued into April 2025, when USPIS and RADE seized two additional parcels addressed to Aragon at an acquaintance’s residence that contained controlled substances.

At the time of these offenses, Aragon was on federal supervised release after completing a 15-month federal prison sentence for distributing cocaine.

On September 29, 2025, Aragon pleaded guilty to attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.

This case was investigated by USPIS and RADE. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Olivia Mendez, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.  

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

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for felon in possession of a firearm after absconding from supervision for sixteen months.

Alfredo Terrero-Ortega, 28, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on January 31, 2023, Terrero-Ortega was released from the Oregon Department of Corrections to post-prison supervision in the community. In June 2023, within five months of his release, Terrero-Ortega threatened to kill a woman and shoved her to the ground while she was holding her baby. He also strangled her. She reported the incident, and he absconded from his post-prison state supervision. On November 7, 2024, the U.S. Marshals found and arrested Terrero-Ortega in Portland. When arrested, Terrero-Ortega, had a black satchel containing a loaded 9mm pistol, methamphetamine, zip lock baggies, a phone, handwritten credit card information, and documents linked to Terrero-Ortega’s girlfriend.

On December 17, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a single-count indictment charging Terrero-Ortega with felon in possession of a firearm.

On October 2, 2025, Terrero-Ortega pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.

The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah K. Bolstad prosecuted the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— A man from Delhi, India, was sentenced to federal prison today for conspiring with others to export controlled aviation components and a navigation and flight control system to end users in Russia, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act.

Sanjay Kaushik, 58, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison and 36 months of supervised release.

“This was no lapse in judgment. It was a calculated, profit-driven scheme involving repeated transactions, substantial gains, and coordination with foreign co-conspirators, including sanctioned Russian entities,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “This defendant sought, on multiple occasions, to undermine safeguards critical to U.S. national security and foreign policy for his own personal gain.”

According to court documents and following today’s sentencing, beginning in early September 2023, Kaushik conspired with others to unlawfully obtain aerospace goods and technology from the United States for entities in Russia. The goods were purchased under the false pretense that they would be supplied to Kaushik and his Indian company, when in fact they were destined for Russian end users.

In one such instance, Kaushik and his co-conspirators purchased an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS), which is a device that provides navigation and flight control data for aircraft, from an Oregon-based supplier. Components such as the AHRS require a license from the Department of Commerce to be exported to certain countries, including Russia. To obtain an export license for the AHRS, Kaushik and his co-conspirators falsely claimed that Kaushik’s Indian company was the end purchaser and that the component would be used in a civilian helicopter. Kaushik and his co-conspirators obtained the AHRS – which was ultimately detained before it was exported from the United States – on behalf of and with the intention of shipping it, through India, to a customer in Russia.

Kaushik was arrested in Miami, Florida, on October 17, 2024, pursuant to a criminal complaint and arrest warrant and has remained in custody since then.

On November 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Kaushik with conspiring and attempting to export products in violation of the Export Control Reform Act and the Export Administration Regulations, specifically attempting to illegally export a navigation and flight control system from Oregon to Russia through India, and false statements in connection with an export.

On October 9, 2025, Kaushik pled guilty to count one of the indictment, conspiring to sell export-controlled aviation components with dual civilian and military applications to end users in Russia.

The sentencing was announced by Scott E. Bradford, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the National Security Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and Special Agent in Charge Brent Burmester of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), San Jose Field Office.

BIS Portland investigated the case, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Gregory R. Nyhus, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Brush Prairie, Washington, woman pleaded guilty yesterday and was sentenced for mail theft while working as a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employee.

Darcy Rae Nolan, 57, pleaded guilty to the information charging theft of mail by an officer or employee. Nolan was sentenced to two years of probation. The court ordered Nolan to pay restitution.

According to court documents, from February 2024 through December 2024, Nolan, as a city carrier for the USPS Parkrose Station Post Office, stole medications from the mail on at least 15 occasions by manipulating USPS records regarding parcels or opening parcels and stealing the medications. A search of Nolan’s purse and vehicle recovered approximately 137 pills and capsules that were later identified as five different types of prescription amphetamines.

On November 10, 2025, Nolan was charged by information with theft of mail by a postal employee.

The USPS Office of Inspector General investigated the case. First Assistant United States Attorney William M. Narus and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Trisotto prosecuted the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man has been charged with possessing multiple firearms as a felon and eluding police officers after a high-speed chase.

Edward Francis Jones, 32, has been charged by criminal complaint with felon in possession of a firearm and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.

“Running from justice puts lives at risk and threatens the safety of everyone around us,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “I am grateful to our federal and local law enforcement partners for their commitment to protecting the community by locating and removing this dangerous fugitive from our streets.”

“The U.S. Marshals Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force is thankful to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department, Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon State Police for arresting Jones,” said Acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Oregon Pete W. Cajigal. “The unwavering dedication, relentless hard work, and steadfast diligence of these agencies stand as a powerful testament to the exceptional caliber of law enforcement that safeguards and serves our communities.” 

“Our community is safer because of our partnerships with local, state, tribal, and federal agencies, said Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Shark. “Those partnerships allowed us to take both weapons, and a felon in possession of those weapons, off our streets.”

According to court documents, on November 6, 2025, Warm Springs Police officers were patrolling on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation when they observed a Hyundai sedan that matched the description of a stolen car. As the officer checked the license plate, the driver placed the car into drive and drove at a high speed into a field. As the officer activated his overhead lights and sirens, the car came to a sudden stop after hitting something. A male, identified as Jones, exited the car and began running. Officers attempted to chase Jones but lost sight of him.

Inside the stolen car, officers found a loaded 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number sitting on the driver’s seat. Officers also found alcohol, fireworks, a backpack containing a bag believed to contain methamphetamine, a baggie of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and approximately 94 rounds of ammunition. A second backpack was found inside the vehicle with mail belonging to Jones.

On January 7, 2026, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputies observed a female known to be affiliated with Jones in a Chrysler 300. Officers initiated a traffic stop for an expired registration. The vehicle did not stop and continued traveling through Madras, Oregon, at extremely high speeds, passing vehicles and driving into oncoming traffic. The car ultimately lost control and crashed. A male exited the driver’s seat and fled on foot. Drone operators from the Prineville Police Department located the fleeing suspect approximately 100 yards east. Officers contacted the suspect, identified as Jones, and took him into custody. Inside the car, officers observed a handgun lying on the driver’s side floorboard. An additional blue pistol belonging to the female occupant was also found on the driver’s side floorboard.

Jones has been wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service since May 29, 2025, for two separate supervised release violation cases with underlying felon in possession charges. Law enforcement has attempted to arrest Jones multiple times. The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Warm Springs Police Department, Hood River Police Department, and Wasco County Sheriff’s Office participated in the search for Jones.

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

The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— An Oregon City, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for selling drugs after an investigation into an overdose death led to his prosecution.

Toren Paul Flom, 32, was sentenced to 140 months in federal prison and four years of supervised release.

“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of this crime. This defendant is a career offender with prior felony drug convictions and was on post-prison supervision when he sold drugs to the victim here,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Drug crimes are not victimless – they tear families apart and weaken our communities as a whole, creating wounds that endure long after the crime itself.”

“Driven by greed, this drug dealer chose to put deadly drugs into our community with no regard for the lives and families harmed,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Flom’s sentence means he can no longer contribute to overdoses or cause more heartbreak for victims and their loved ones. HSI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that profit from this suffering and to protect the safety of our neighborhoods.”

“I’m grateful for the continued collaboration among law enforcement agencies to hold dangerous drug traffickers accountable,” said Portland Police Chief Bob Day. “Cases such as this help reduce the amount of dangerous drugs in our city and the devastating impact they have on so many lives.”

According to court documents, on June 2, 2024, law enforcement responded to an emergency call regarding a deceased victim who had overdosed on multiple controlled substances. The investigation revealed that Flom had distributed multiple controlled substances to the victim prior to his overdose death. Ultimately, investigators were not able to conclusively establish that Flom was the sole source of drugs that caused the victim’s overdose death. Nonetheless, investigators pursued a criminal investigation into Flom’s drug trafficking activities. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Flom’s residence in July 2024 and seized approximately 7.2 gross kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms, 1.29 gross kilograms of ketamine, 1.2 gross kilograms of cocaine, 607 gross grams of MDMA, and 102 grams of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).

On July 23, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Flom with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, LSD, MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine.

On September 10, 2025, Flom pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

HSI and the Portland Police Bureau – Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady A. Adams prosecuted the case.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—Today, the Justice Department announced criminal charges against Luis Nino-Moncada, an illegal alien and known Tren de Aragua (TdA) associate living in the Portland, Oregon area for violently striking a federal law enforcement vehicle. During a targeted enforcement operation, Nino-Moncada is alleged to have repeatedly struck a federal law enforcement vehicle, placing Border Patrol agents in harm’s way and resulting in significant damage to federal property. Nino-Moncada is in the country illegally, having previously been ordered removed by an immigration judge in 2024.

“Anyone who crosses the red line of assaulting law enforcement will be met with the full force of this Justice Department,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man — an illegal alien with ties to a foreign terrorist organization — should NEVER have been in our country to begin with, and we will ensure he NEVER walks free in America again.”

Nino-Moncada has been charged with aggravated assault of a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and depredation of federal property in excess of $1,000. Nino-Moncada is scheduled to make his Initial Appearance today at 1:30 PM PST.

According to the complaint, Border Patrol agents initiated a targeted immigration enforcement operation on a vehicle believed to belong to a female involved in a TdA prostitution ring. The female was sitting in the passenger-side seat of the vehicle at the time of the enforcement operation. This female had previously been arrested by Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas and later failed to report to immigration authorities. According to law enforcement reports, the female is believed to have been involved in a shooting stemming from a bad prostitution deal.

After commanding Nino-Moncada to exit the vehicle, Nino-Moncada is alleged to have placed his vehicle in reverse, colliding with an unoccupied Border Patrol vehicle with enough speed and force to cause significant damage. Nino-Moncada continued the forward and reverse maneuver multiple times, striking the Border Patrol vehicle multiple times. A Border Patrol agent interviewed by FBI special agents described being fearful that Nino-Moncada could strike them and other Border Patrol agents with the target vehicle. After the attack, Nino-Moncada and the female passenger fled the scene in the target vehicle.

Damage to the border patrol vehicle was significant. Serious damage was sustained to the front bumper, resulting in the bumper being torn from the vehicle, both headlights being destroyed, the front driver-side quarter panel being dented, including the fender liner being detached, and the driver side rear-passenger door and quarter panel being dented.

In an interview following the incident, Nino-Moncada admitted to intentionally ramming the Border Patrol vehicle in an attempt to flee and stated that he knew it was an immigration enforcement vehicle.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On January 14, 2026, Wymon Wayne Smith, age 67, pleaded guilty to sex abuse in the first degree and sex abuse in the second degree. Judge Kathleen Proctor sentenced the defendant to 75 months in prison. Deputy District Attorney Matt Wise prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant worked as a teacher at Banks High School. He initiated an increasingly flirtatious and inappropriate relationship with a student. On January 6, 2025, the victim was alone in class with the defendant when he told the student to close the door so he could give the victim a “real hug.” The defendant then hugged the minor and touched the student inappropriately. He admitted to the student that he “shouldn’t be doing this.”
 

The victim reported the inappropriate actions to a friend who alerted an adult. Law enforcement and school staff were then notified. The defendant was immediately placed on leave pending the results of an investigation. He was later terminated from employment and permanently barred from entering campus.
 

After the initial investigation, detectives learned of a second abuse victim, another student at the school. The defendant also initiated an increasingly flirtatious relationship with this student that progressed to explicit sexual text messages and forceful sexual contact over a period of time.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victims for reporting this abuse. This office also thanks the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.
 

In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant will serve ten years of post-prison supervision and must register as a sex offender. He will also lose his teaching certification. 

HILLSBORO, Ore- On December 5, 2025, a Washington County jury found Leo Gabonia, age 49, guilty of five sex abuse-related charges, including sodomy in the first degree, sexual penetration in the first degree, and sex abuse in the first degree. On December 18, 2025, Judge Janelle Wipper sentenced the defendant to 375 months in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant was first convicted on these charges in 2019. The Oregon Court of Appeals ordered a retrial of this case.
 

Forest Grove Police first began investigating Mr. Gabonia in September of 2017 after the victim made disclosures of abuse to a family member. That family member then contacted police, who began the investigation.
 

The defendant was known to the family and used that connection to gain access to the victim. Police learned the abuse began two years prior to the disclosure, with inappropriate touching and kissing, and quickly escalated from there. Based on victim accounts and the expertise from staff at Randall Children's Hospital and CARES Northwest, police gathered enough evidence to move forward with charges against Mr. Gabonia.
 

The Washington County District Attorney's Office would like to acknowledge the work of the Forest Grove Police Department.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On January 6, 2026, a Washington County jury found Andrew Ross Alcante Jr., age 62, guilty of sodomy in the first degree (two counts), attempted sodomy in the first degree, sexual abuse in the first degree (three counts), luring a minor, and using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct (two counts). Two of the counts fall under Jessica’s Law. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case before Judge Kathleen Proctor.

The defendant sexually abused two young children. The abuse came to light in December 2023, when one of the victims reported the abuse to a family member. The second victim came forward after the initial disclosure. Both victims were interviewed by medical experts at CARES Northwest, where they gave additional details.

After the third day of trial, the defendant returned home, where he overdosed on drugs. He survived but was hospitalized, causing a three-week delay in trial proceedings.

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

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 24, 2026. 

Jobs for the Future partnership strengthens education-to-employment pathways for justice-impacted Oregonians

Salem, Ore., January 14, 2026 — Chemeketa Community College is proud to support Oregon’s participation in a new national initiative funded by Jobs for the Future (JFF) aimed at expanding education and workforce pathways for individuals with histories of incarceration.

Oregon was selected as one of four states nationwide to join the Fair Chance to Advance (FC2A) State Action Networks, a multi-year effort focused on aligning education, workforce, and employment systems so justice-impacted individuals can access meaningful opportunities for economic mobility. The highly competitive selection process included applications from more than 30 states.

The initiative is led by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) in partnership with the Oregon Department of Corrections and the Oregon Employment Department, with colleges, workforce providers, and community partners across the state contributing to the work. Chemeketa plays an important role in supporting education, training, and workforce connections that help individuals transition successfully from custody to community.

Over the next four years, Oregon will receive up to $2.1 million in funding, along with technical assistance and access to a national learning network. The work will focus on unifying inter-agency data systems, strengthening reporting and decision-making, expanding education-to-employment pathways, and sustaining and growing in-prison WorkSource Oregon Reentry Centers as a critical bridge to post-release employment.

“Chemeketa’s mission is rooted in expanding opportunity and strengthening communities,” said Holly Nelson, Chief Workforce Innovation and Community Success Officer at Chemeketa Community College. “This initiative reflects what we know to be true: when education, workforce training, and community partners work together, people who have been justice-impacted can build real pathways to family-wage jobs, economic stability, and long-term success. We are proud to support this statewide effort and to help ensure these pathways are accessible, connected, and sustainable.”

The grant builds on several years of coordinated work guided by Senate Bill 234 (2021) and Senate Bill 269 (2023), which established a continuum of education and workforce services for adults in custody. Across Oregon, this work has expanded access to Pell Grant and state-funded education programs, strengthened pathways to college credit, invested in digital learning, and enhanced reentry services that connect individuals to community-based employment after release.

Chemeketa’s ongoing workforce and education partnerships support this continuum by aligning training programs with regional employer needs and helping individuals develop the skills required for in-demand careers.

As part of the FC2A State Action Networks, Oregon will collaborate with Kansas, Maine, and North Carolina and receive additional technical assistance from JFF and the Coleridge Initiative. The effort also emphasizes engaging people with lived experience as advisors and co-designers to ensure systems are responsive and effective.

More information about Chemeketa’s role and opportunities to engage with this work will be shared as the initiative moves forward.

$2 million federal investment expands scholarships, mentoring, and transfer pathways for community college STEM students

Salem, Ore., January 13, 2026— Chemeketa Community College announced today that it has been awarded a significant grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support its Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) project, Supportive Community College STEM Students’ Development, Persistence, Transfer, and Success.

This six-year, $1,999,946 grant is designed to substantially increase the number of low-income students who earn STEM degrees at Chemeketa and successfully transfer to four-year institutions to complete bachelor’s degrees in high-demand STEM fields.

The project addresses the unique academic, financial, and structural challenges often faced by community college students pursuing STEM careers. Through a combination of direct financial assistance and intentional academic and mentoring support, the initiative will strengthen Chemeketa’s role as a key pipeline for the region’s future STEM workforce.

Direct Benefits for Students and Academic Success

The project will award 18–20 new scholarships each year, supporting an estimated 98 unique low-income students over the life of the grant. Scholarships will be available to students planning to transfer in critical STEM disciplines, including Biology, Chemistry, Data Science, Engineering, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science.

Scholarship funding will be paired with a comprehensive support structure focused on persistence, transfer, and completion, including:

• Financial and academic support: Scholarships that reduce financial barriers and allow students to focus on coursework.
   

• Targeted academic courses: A STEM-specific First-Year Experience course and transfer-focused classes aligned with Oregon’s transfer pathways.
   

• Holistic mentoring: Cohort-based learning, peer mentoring, and sustained faculty mentorship.
   

• Career and transfer advising: Specialized counseling, STEM industry guest speakers, and direct connections to university transfer partners.
   

“There is a wealth of potential within the students in our communities. This opportunity will provide access and support for students to pursue their passions in STEM fields while spending their time at Chemeketa as part of a supportive community of like-minded peers and mentors,” said Keith Schloeman and Shannon Othus Gault, co-leads of Chemeketa’s NSF S-STEM project.

“Students will receive not only the financial support needed to participate in higher education, but also wraparound academic support and opportunities that foster their development as STEM students and emerging STEM professionals. We are excited to support students through this program and look forward to seeing their accomplishments.”

“This NSF grant is an investment in the future workforce of our region,” said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. “By removing barriers and providing comprehensive, wraparound support, we are ensuring that talented low-income students have a clear and achievable path to high-demand, high-wage STEM careers. This project is not only about student success, it’s about building a stronger, more skilled community.”

The NSF award reinforces Chemeketa Community College’s commitment to equity, access, and workforce preparation, while advancing opportunities for students to thrive in the rapidly evolving STEM economy.

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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 17,500 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.

Council for the Homeless CEO to Discuss Racial Healing and Housing Equity

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Clark College invites community members to its annual 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration featuring a public discussion forum on racial healing and honoring Dr. King’s legacy. 

Join Sesany Fennie-Jones, CEO of the Council for the Homeless, as she discusses systemic challenges, resources, and opportunities to support those on their journey home.

The observance takes place every year on the Tuesday following Martin Luther King Jr. Day and offers individuals and communities the opportunity to come together to contemplate shared values and inspire collective action. Learn more about this annual event: https://www.clark.edu/about/arts-events/mlk/

EVENT DETAILS

Time: Tuesday, January 20, 1:30–3 p.m.

Location: Gaiser Hall Student Center, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98683

Parking: Green or Red lots—view online map and directions here.

Accommodations: If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu

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

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.

WINTER KIT SUPPLY DRIVE

To honor MLK’s legacy, Clark College invites the community to participate in the Winter Supply Kit Drive. Partnering with the Council for the Homeless, Clark will be accepting donations of the following items:

• Beanies
• Gloves
• Hand warmers
• Emergency blankets
• Ponchos
• Socks
• Snacks (nonperishable, easy to open and eat, high protein)
• Chapstick
• Gallon zip-lock bags

Items may be dropped off at the Gaiser Student Center at the following times:

• Tuesday, Jan. 20 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 21 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Thursday, Jan. 22 – 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

ABOUT KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Sesany Fennie-Jones, Chief Executive Officer of Council for the Homeless, is a transformative leader with more than 20 years of experience in social services and housing insecurity. Known for her ability to build strong relationships and unite people around common goals, her career has been dedicated to driving systemic change that supports society’s most vulnerable.

Sesany’s leadership is shaped by her professional expertise, education, and lived experience, a powerful combination that fuels her compassionate, trauma-informed approach. She has developed and led programs focused on co-occurring treatment, supportive and sober housing, transitional living, and emergency shelters.

Widely respected for fostering collaborative, community-based solutions, Sesany firmly believes housing is a basic human right and works to dismantle barriers such as racial disparities, economic inequality, and untreated behavioral health needs that contribute to homelessness.

Under her leadership, Council for the Homeless continues to drive policy reform, equitable housing strategies, and lasting community impact.

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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PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon’s classrooms are growing more diverse faster than its teacher workforce. In 2024–25, students of color make up 42.5% of K-12 enrollment (per the Oregon Statewide Report Card), but teachers of color are 14.1%, which is a looming gap as districts move toward required implementation of social science standards integrating ethnic studies in 2026–27.

And nationally, 80% of U.S. teachers are non-Hispanic White (2020–21), making educator diversity a nationwide challenge, not just an Oregon one, according to the Pew Research Center.

Chantell Wesley, a Portland Community College alum, single mother and first-generation college student, is positioning herself to help close that gap. Wesley is graduating summa cum laude from Portland State University’s Honors College, applying to PhD programs in Black Studies and Education, and building youth-led research projects that put students’ lived experiences at the center of learning.

Wesley, who was born in Portland and raised in San Francisco, first enrolled at PCC in 2014. A single mother and first-generation college student, she chose an associate’s degree designed for transfer, keeping a long-term dream in view: earning a PhD. Her path is important as there are an estimated 3.1 million undergrad student-parents nationally, nearly one in five, who are following the single-mother pathway.

“I didn’t know exactly how to pursue a PhD, so I took things step by step,” Wesley said. “As a first-generation student, I initially chose PCC because it was the closest school to my mother after I moved back to Portland following my son’s father's passing away. I met with an advisor who recommended a program that suited my goals, and I followed their guidance.”

After time away from school, Wesley returned to PCC in Fall 2022. She soon enrolled in the Critical Educators of Color Pathway (CECP) after being inspired by instructor Gabriel Higuera’s “Decolonizing Education.” The experience reshaped her academic goals and solidified her commitment to becoming an educator and community leader.

Wesley said that completing the CECP program gave her valuable mentorship, practical experience, and insight into what it means to be an educator of color and provided a pathway to be active in the community and work with youth. It also helped her believe that she could apply for a PhD program. 

Supportive Faculty And Staff

“PCC has always felt like home where I found mentors who became like family,” she said. “Instructors like Dr. Higuera, Jess Brooks in the Math Department, and Dr. Clifford Meeks in the Multicultural Center reminded me of my abilities, my worth and my potential.

“They have seen me stress, cry and persevere,” she continued. “Being a single mother striving for a better life, while trying to survive day to day, is beyond challenging. But the community I found at PCC has kept me going, and I’m deeply grateful for that.”

At PCC, Meeks said Wesley displayed academic prowess throughout their many conversations and showcased inquisitiveness of her courses and strategies that would help her successfully navigate them.

“She asks thoughtful, engaging questions that generate philosophical discourse about the past, present and future state of the Black American community,” said Meeks, who oversees PCC’s Multicultural Center. “I am excited to witness her manifest her aspirations into the reality she is actively cultivating for herself and her family."

In 2024, Wesley transferred to Portland State as a dual-enrolled student while completing CECP. She is currently in her final term and will graduate in March 2026. She has applied to nine PhD programs in Black Studies and Education and plans to move directly from her bachelor’s degree into doctoral study.

“As a student and peer mentor at PCC, she was deeply committed to learning and supporting others, with a natural ability to connect with students and make them feel seen,” said Jess Brooks, PCC math instructor. “Through mentoring, study groups, and showing up during stressful moments, Chantell helped build genuine community through collaboration.”

While in CECP, Wesley facilitated impactful youth projects at Franklin High School and Vernon Middle School using Youth Participatory Action Research. She also co-organized the Oregon Ethnic Studies Youth Conference, where students from across the state presented research, advocated for change, and led initiatives in their schools and communities.

Charting The Future While Giving Back

“She has positively impacted hundreds of young people's lives in Oregon,” Higuera said. “Chantell's drive, pursuit of knowledge and passion for justice shine in her interactions with others, and are the qualities that will get her to wherever she wants to go."

She assisted with PCC’s Ninth Ethnic Studies Youth Conference, held for the first time on the PSU campus in December. About 400 middle and high school students presented their own research, art and solutions for the critical issues shaping their lives, from environmental justice and healthcare equity to civil rights.

“Witnessing youth use their agency and voice was incredibly inspiring,” she said. “It confirmed that my work belongs in classrooms and community spaces where young people are leading.”

Wesley’s long-term goal is to become a professor and to found a nonprofit for at-risk youth, focusing on emotional development, trauma-informed care and financial literacy. With graduation from PSU on the horizon and doctorate decisions ahead, Wesley said she is committed to continuing the cycle of mentorship and support that started at PCC.

“The community I found at PCC kept me going," she said. "PCC has been foundational to who I am today. These experiences, combined with PCC’s supportive environment, taught me that asking for support, engaging deeply in your community, and building networks are essential parts of creating your path to success.

To learn more about PCC's Ethnic Studies Program or the youth conference, visit its webpage. 

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 57,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College has been selected to receive the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a national recognition awarded by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The classification is valid through 2032.

More than 230 U.S. colleges and universities received the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement (CE) Classification, an elective designation awarded by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching that highlights an institution’s commitment to community engagement. A listing of all the institutions that currently hold the classification endorsement can be found here.

According to ACE and the Carnegie Foundation, PCC’s application demonstrated strong alignment across the college’s mission, culture, leadership, resources and practices that support community engagement. The review cited PCC’s ability to document institutionalized and exemplary approaches to partnership-building, showcasing how the college works alongside community partners to leverage shared assets and create meaningful public impact.

“This recognition reflects the depth of PCC’s partnerships and the commitment of our faculty, staff, students and community collaborators,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “Community engagement is not an add-on at PCC; it is central to how we teach, learn and serve, and we are proud to be recognized for work that strengthens the communities we call home.”

The CE Classification is awarded following a process of self-study by each institution. The classification has been the leading framework for institutional assessment and recognition of community engagement in U.S. higher education for the past 19 years.

In the 2026 cycle, 237 institutions earned the CE Classification, joining the 40 institutions classified in 2024 for a total of 277 institutions that currently hold the designation. Of the institutions recognized in 2026, 48 are receiving the classification for the first time, while 189 have previously held it. The 2026 cohort includes a diverse range of institutions, with 157 public institutions, 80 private colleges and universities, and 81 Minority Serving Institutions represented among the recipients.

“Higher education is a vital economic engine for us all. Our colleges and universities not only fuel science and innovation, they build prosperity in rural, urban and suburban communities nationwide,” said Timothy F.C. Knowles, president of the Carnegie Foundation. “We celebrate each of these institutions, particularly their dedication to partnering with their neighbors — fostering civic engagement, building usable knowledge, and catalyzing real world learning experiences for students.” 

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 57,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites prospective students and their families to attend Preview Day, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24 on the WSU Vancouver campus. The event is free and open to everyone.

Preview Day offers an inside look at campus life and the academic opportunities available at Southwest Washington’s only four‑year research university. Attendees will meet current students, admissions counselors and financial aid experts who can help them navigate their path to college.

During the event, guests will:

• Get insider tips on applying from WSU Vancouver admissions counselors
• Hear from current students about what it’s really like to be a Coug
• Learn how scholarships, financial aid and strategic planning can make college more affordable than many expect
• Get a tour of campus and resources available to help students succeed in college
• Have the chance to win fun Coug prizes, including the university’s signature Cougar Gold cheese

“Preview Day is one of the best ways to discover whether WSU Vancouver is the right fit,” said Jason Yi, campus director of admissions. “It’s an opportunity to explore the campus, meet our vibrant community and see how we support students in achieving their goals.”

To register, visit vancouver.wsu.edu/preview.

For event accommodations, call 360‑546‑9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu.

For more information about WSU Vancouver admissions or Preview Day, email van.admissions@wsu.edu or call 360‑546‑WSUV (9788).

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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The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on January 20, 2026.  
The Board will be considering a supplemental budget.

This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/86344815098?pwd=WIfxPoHzicosENO953mY8ztwMQymHZ.1
Passcode:200622

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hillsboro, Oregon — High school seniors in Washington County public schools now have a new pathway to a high-wage, high-demand career through a free commercial driver's license (CDL) program launching this spring.

The program prepares students to safely operate commercial trucks and equips them with the skills needed to enter the workforce shortly after high school graduation. Graduates will be prepared for employment opportunities with local construction, public transit, utility, transportation, energy, and waste management companies.

Thanks to generous community sponsors, the program is free for students. Comparable CDL training programs typically cost an estimated $8,000.

Program Details

• Open to high school seniors who attend public schools in Banks, Beaverton, Forest Grove, Gaston, Hillsboro, Sherwood and Tigard-Tualatin school districts 

• Training begins in March at the regional office in Hillsboro

• Continues through July at Elite Truck School in Hillsboro

• No cost to participate

• Applications available in English and Spanish

Application Deadline: Friday, January 30

Applicants must:

• Provide contact information, including school and parent/guardian details

• Select an educator sponsor from their school

  • Sponsors support students during the application process and provide mentoring throughout the program

• Submit a short essay

• Provide one letter of recommendation (from a supervisor, teacher, counselor, coach, or similar reference)

• Submit a resume

Learn more at nwresd.org/cdl. 

On January 13, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the January 2026 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Felicity Stone, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Felicity shows exceptional gratitude, kindness, and compassion each and every day. She communicates beautifully through her expressive gestures, warm presence, and thoughtful actions. She shows appreciation in her own special way, and her gentle kindness shines through in everything she does. Felicity is a ball of sunshine who lights up the room with her bright smile. She brings joy to her classmates, offers comfort without needing words, and shows compassion in ways that make everyone around her feel seen and cared for. 

Grayson Munoz, 1st Grade at Union Ridge Elementary School

Grayson consistently goes above and beyond to lend a helping hand to both adults and his peers. His kindness, positive attitude, and natural leadership make him a dependable and valued member of the classroom community. He brings a sense of joy and warmth to our school each day and truly is a light to those around him. In addition to his strong character, Grayson is always striving to grow in his education. He approaches learning with curiosity and determination, eagerly taking on new challenges and showing perseverance when tasks become difficult. Grayson takes pride in improving his skills and is always willing to put in extra effort to better himself academically. Grayson’s dedication, growth mindset, and caring spirit make him a wonderful example for others.

McKinlee Robinson, 1st Grade at South Ridge Elementary School

McKinlee (Mac) brings a wonderful sense of kindness and care to our classroom each day. She is thoughtful and aware of the world around her, often going out of her way to help the community by picking up trash that isn’t hers simply because she knows it’s the right thing to do. Mac is also quick to offer help to others, whether a classmate needs support or an extra hand. One of Mac’s greatest strengths is how genuinely happy she is for others. She celebrates her classmates’ accomplishments with enthusiasm and joy, helping create a classroom environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged. She consistently looks for ways to lift others up and make sure they feel supported. Mac’s positive energy is evident in everything she does. Her optimism and kindness have a ripple effect, brightening the classroom and influencing those around her in meaningful ways. She is a caring, considerate student who models empathy and compassion, and her presence makes our learning community a better place.

Ethan Makohon, 5th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Ethan truly shines as a Responsible, Respectful, and Resilient leader in our school. Every day, Ethan is incredibly Responsible—he can be counted on to follow directions, and works hard to do his personal best in every single subject. His sweet, empathetic nature makes him wonderfully Respectful to staff and classmates alike. He is always looking for ways to be a helpful class community member and is a bright role model for all of us. In fact, we recently saw his leadership skills bloom when he gently and respectfully brought his group members back on task during a big project, making sure everyone felt heard but stayed focused on the goal. Finally, while he is an extremely capable student, he shows fantastic resilience by learning to trust himself and confidently embrace new challenges.

Taylor Page, 8th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

Taylor brings a smile to STEM class every single day, listens attentively, and consistently applies herself to every task. Taylor can always be counted on to give her best effort, whether she is working independently or collaborating with classmates, even in challenging group situations. She demonstrates patience, respect, and strong teamwork skills, showing that she can lead as well as support others effectively. Beyond STEM, Taylor has pushed herself outside of her comfort zone in Drama this year. Her motivation to be successful often helps her overcome obstacles and creatively problem solve. In ELA, Taylor is a model student, continuously seeking ways to stretch her abilities and improve her skills. Her writing is a joy to read and reflects her unique voice and creativity. Taylor is incredibly hardworking and driven. Her consistent effort, positivity, and grit make her a role model for her peers and a valued member of our school community. 

Grace Lee, 12th Grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

It has been our distinct privilege and absolute pleasure to work with Grace Lee during the several years at Wisdom Ridge. Grace's journey here has been characterized by exceptional resilience. She has faced formidable personal challenges, yet her response has been one of consistent growth, commitment, and an unwavering determination to move forward and prove what she can accomplish. That monumental effort to build a better future for herself has not gone unnoticed. This academic year, Grace has demonstrated a powerful and visible commitment to her goals. Her attendance has significantly improved, her focus on her studies has sharpened, and her dedication to both her personal growth and her education is unequivocally clear. We understand that this year has been particularly demanding, yet Grace has successfully managed two programs simultaneously: the Transition Program and the challenging coursework required for her graduation from Ridgefield School District. To manage this workload while navigating personal struggles is nothing short of impressive. She has risen above these obstacles and, through her exceptional follow-through, has proven herself to be an incredibly capable and determined young woman. We are incredibly proud of her tenacity. Grace’s story is a profound reminder that progress is not always immediate, but with consistency, perseverance, and heart, it undeniably happens. She proves this powerful truth every single day. Thank you, Grace, for the positive and inspiring strides you have made and for being such an integral part of our school community. 

Colin Hutton, 12th Grade at Ridgefield High School

Colin values the strong sense of community at RHS and the time he spends connecting with friends. Influenced by teachers and coaches like Mr. Brink and Mr. Rinard, Colin has learned the importance of being pushed to grow—both individually and as part of a team. Colin is widely known across campus for his creativity, resilience, adaptability and exceptional work ethic. Teachers consistently describe him as proactive and dependable, whether he is supporting students in the library before the school day even begins or tackling complex challenges in physics, robotics, and engineering-focused coursework. His leadership on the Robotics team stands out, particularly in his role developing CAD training for younger students and serving as a bridge between professional mentors and new learners. Colin doesn’t just participate—he improves systems, anticipates needs, and finds creative solutions that make a real difference. With a positive attitude, strong problem-solving skills, and a “can-do” mindset, Colin brings joy and reliability to every space he enters. He works equally well independently or as part of a team, never making excuses and always striving to do his best. Looking ahead, Colin hopes to attend the University of Washington to study electrical engineering, a goal well matched to his curiosity, determination, and talent. 

Employees of the Month

Tammy Cresap, 6th Grade Science Teacher at Sunset Ridge Intermediate 

Cispus Outdoor School is a huge undertaking every year, and there is an incredible amount of moving parts to keep track of. The organization and planning start before the outdoor week is even over for the following year, and then work goes all through the school year (and summer) to make a successful camp happen. We are so thankful for the work done by Tammy Cresap. She pulled together all of those different elements for another year of adventures for our 5th-grade students. Thank you, thank you!

Amanda Burgess, 5th Grade Teacher Sunset Ridge Intermediate

Amanda Burgess was an instrumental part of the coordinating team that spent so many hours planning, organizing, and creating another year of Cispus Outdoor School for our 5th graders. It's a year-long commitment and includes SO many different parts and pieces behind the scenes. Getting hundreds of humans all going in the right directions (literally and figuratively) is a Herculean task, and we are so thankful for the time and effort put into making this week happen. Thank you, thank you!

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 1/22/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS January 22, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/87931930355
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 253 215 8782, +8 793 193 0355, +1 346 248 7799

Humans for Housing is known for its storytelling-driven approach to housing justice, including the acclaimeddocumentary No Place to Grow Old, which has screened more than 160 times in over 60 cities nationwide, from Portland to Washington, D.C.

Today, Portland Oregon is in a severe affordable housing shortage that has turned into a crisis for many Portlanders. According to Multnomah County’s dashboard, this January over 16,000 Portlanders are living homeless.

“We were intentional about creating a space that feels invitational rather than overwhelming,” said Madeline Iem, curatorof Dear Portland. “This exhibition is about honoring lived experience and holding complexity–grief, love, anger, and hope–while reminding visitors that housing insecurity is not inevitable. It’s the result of choices, and that means we can choose something different together.”

The exhibition opens to the public at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. The Exhibition Launch Day block party will take place from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and include warm coffee and fresh donuts as supplies last, live music, a chance to connect with the curators and moments designed to welcome visitors into the space and the ongoing conversation around housing justice in Portland.

A press preview with light refreshments will take place Thursday, Feb. 5, from 1 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., offering the media aguided walkthrough of the exhibition and opportunities to speak with exhibition coordinators.

Tickets for the exhibition can be reserved at this link.

Additionally, during Portland's First Thursday on Feb 5, the public can attend an exclusive sneak peek event from 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Limited to 30 tickets, this event features the exhibition’s curators and some of the storytellers whosevoices shape Dear Portland. Tickets for this event can be reserved at this link.

MEDIA RESOURCES: Exhibition team available for interviews; images and press materials available here.

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Humans for Housing is a Portland-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing housing justice through storytelling,education, and community engagement. Grounded in the belief that every human has inherent worth and a right to safe, stable housing, Humans for Housing creates narrative-driven projects that center lived experience and inspire collective action. The organization is the creator of the acclaimed documentary No Place to Grow Old, which has screened more than 160 times in over 60 cities nationwide.

SALEM, Ore. – With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.

This past weekend, the Baker City Fire Department responded to two home fires related to fireplaces and chimneys. In Portland, a 64-year-old woman was taken to the hospital after a house fire Monday morning. Portland Fire and Rescue said she later died. Investigators believe the suspected cause of this fire is use of an extension cord on an auxiliary space heater.

“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

• Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
• Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.

In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
 

For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

BEND, OR — With the new year in full swing, the High Desert Museum invites you to explore, learn and celebrate with an array of new and compelling events and programs in January and February.

On January 31 and February 28, everyone can experience the latest exhibitions, dynamic wildlife encounters and more for free during the Mid Oregon Credit Union Free Family Saturdays.

Along with free admission, Museum visitors can look forward to a special Daily Schedule. Guests can meet a nonreleasable raptor in the Museum’s care during the Bird of Prey Encounters happening every hour between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. 

“Our partnership with High Desert Museum continues to be a great value for the credit union, members and the community for over 22 years,” said Kyle Frick, VP of Marketing for Mid Oregon Credit Union. “This is one of the annual high points that we look forward to each year, always getting better as time goes on!”

Free Days are just the beginning of an eventful winter at the Museum. On Saturday, January 24, visitors have a special opportunity to hear from author Linda Meanus (Warm Springs) during an afternoon talk and book signing. Meanus will discuss her recent book My Name is LaMoosh and share stories from her life.

Meanus grew up with her grandmother Flora Thompson and grandfather Chief Tommy Thompson near Celilo Falls and has persevered through life’s challenges to teach broad audiences about Indigenous ways of life and ongoing connections to the Columbia River. Tickets are $5 (20% discount for members) and free for Tribal members. The talk is followed by a book signing. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/linda-meanus-talk.

Then, on Thursday, February 12, a special members-only appreciation night welcomes members and their guests to an interactive, celebratory evening exploring the exhibition Soil Alive! The event includes music, a kid-friendly dinner with non-alcoholic beverages, beer, wine and a themed cocktail for purchase, and down-to-earth fun for all ages. Hands-on activities include soil painting and discovering the tiny wonders of soil through a microscope. The event is free for members and $5 for member guests. Discover more at highdesertmuseum.org/member-appreciation-2026.

Back for another year of 1920s excitement, the annual Prohibition Party returns on Friday, February 20. From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, the Museum steps back in time for a night of suede, silk and fringe. This year celebrating the cowboy and the flapper, the theme A Fringe Affair puts the 1920s in the High Desert. Michelle Van Handel and the Swingin’ Doors will provide live music alongside dancing, a costume contest and a pop-up exhibition to explore objects from 1920s Central Oregon. The Prohibition Party also includes food and drinks for purchase, a movie theater, make-n-take art stations for headpieces and bolos, plus two themed photo booths.

The event is 21 and older only, and costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $50 with two drink tickets or $35 with two non-alcoholic drink tickets. Members receive a 20% discount. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/prohibition-party-2026.

Finally, on Thursday, February 26, the quarterly program Museum & Me takes place. Museum & Me invites children and adults who experience physical, intellectual and/or social disabilities to enjoy the Museum after hours from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, providing a quiet space to discover new exhibitions and revisit favorites. Registration is required but tickets are free for individuals, friends and family. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/museum-and-me-feb-2026.

Visit highdesertmuseum.org/calendar to explore upcoming programs and events.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

ABOUT MID OREGON CREDIT UNION:

Mid Oregon Credit Union is a full-service, member-owned financial cooperative headquartered in and serving Central Oregonians since 1957. With almost 49,000 members in Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Wheeler, Lake, and North Klamath Counties and almost $759 million in assets, Mid Oregon partners with members to meet their financial needs and to help them achieve their dreams. Mid Oregon was named a Top Workplace in Oregon and Southwest Washington for 2022, 2023, and 2024. It was also ranked the #1 credit union in Oregon by Forbes for 2023 and 2024 and received the Bend Bulletin’s Best of the Best of Bend Community Choice Award in the credit union category for 2023 and 2024. For more information about its services and branch locations in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Prineville, Redmond, and Sisters, please visit midoregon.com.

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Vancouver, WA — The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is pleased to welcome back author and maritime journalist Peter Marsh for the next installment of its popular History on Tap series. Marsh will present “Liberty Factory: A Look at the Kaiser Shipyards” on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Old Liberty Theater in Ridgefield.

In this engaging presentation, Marsh will explore the remarkable story of Henry Kaiser’s World War II shipyards in the Pacific Northwest and their profound impact on the ports and communities of the lower Columbia River between 1940 and 1945. Drawing from rare photographs, personal diaries, and firsthand accounts, Marsh brings to life the region’s vital—yet often overlooked—role in what President Franklin D. Roosevelt famously called the “Arsenal of Democracy.”

Born in 1947 in Greenwich, England, Peter Marsh developed an early passion for boats and maritime history. After emigrating to the United States in 1972, he settled in Portland and built a 20-foot sailboat by hand, exploring much of the Pacific Northwest. These adventures launched a successful career in marine journalism, where Marsh covered regional maritime life from fishing and recreation to commercial shipping.

In 1996, Marsh inherited an extensive archive of papers and photographs from Larry Barber, the late marine editor of The Oregonian. A visit to the D-Day beaches in Normandy inspired Marsh to take a closer look at Barber’s wartime materials, uncovering a rich and detailed record of Oregon and Southwest Washington’s shipbuilding efforts during World War II. Over the past several years, Marsh has shared this research with audiences throughout the lower Columbia River region, helping to revive interest in the area’s critical contribution to the war effort.

History on Tap is presented through the generous support of Old Liberty Theater, Ridgefield Main Street, and Building Industry Association of Clark County. Admission is $5 for the general public and free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel. Registration is required and available at www.cchmuseum.org.

For more information about the Clark County Historical Museum or the History on Tap Speaker Series, please contact outreach@cchmuseum.org, visit www.cchmuseum.org, or call 360-993-5679.

About the Clark County Historical Society and Museum

The Clark County Historical Society and Museum is committed to responsible collections stewardship, innovative collaboration, and inspiring exhibitions and programs that engage the community in exploring Clark County’s past, present, and future. Our purpose is to share an understanding of the past that helps build a better future for generations to come.

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
January 12, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER HOSTS FREE BUSINESS RESOURCE FAIR CONNECTING EMPLOYERS WITH 12 WASHINGTON STATE AGENCIES 

Event offers direct access to state experts on licensing, compliance, workforce, taxes, and more 

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is bringing Washington state agency experts and trusted business resource partners together for a free, in-person Business Resource Fair designed specifically for employers, operators, managers, and decision-makers throughout the region. 

Held on Tuesday, January 27, from 8–10 a.m. at the Clark College Columbia Tech Center, this Chamber-led event will provide southwest Washington businesses with a unique opportunity to receive direct, practical guidance from 12 Washington state agencies - under one roof. 

Businesses regularly navigate complex systems related to licensing, compliance, workforce regulations, taxes, health coverage, and operational requirements. The Business Resource Fair aims to reduce that friction by giving attendees immediate access to agency staff who can answer questions, clarify processes, and identify programs many organizations don’t realize exist. 

“This event is all about removing barriers,” said Janet Kenefsky, Chief Operating Officer at the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “When businesses better understand the systems they work within, they save time, reduce risk, and operate with more confidence.” 

Attendees will be able to engage directly with representatives from the following participating organizations: 

• Governor’s Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA) 
• Small Business Administration (SBA) 
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) 
• Washington Healthplanfinder 
• Washington Secretary of State Corporations & Charities Division 
• Washington State Department of Commerce 
• Washington State Department of Enterprise Services 
• Washington State Department of Labor & Industries 
• Washington State Department of Licensing 
• Washington State Department of Revenue 
• Washington State Employment Security Department 
• Washington State Office of Minority & Women's Business Enterprises (OMWBE) 
• Washington State Small Business Liaison Team 

Whether attending to streamline operations, prepare for growth, or resolve ongoing regulatory questions, business leaders will walk away with clearer pathways for doing business in Washington state. 

Registration is free. Learn more and reserve your spot at https://my.vancouverusa.com/event-information?id=a0lVp000004VgK2IAK.  

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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 more than 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. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2026

Oregon Community Foundation Contact

Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications, Oregon Community Foundation

(503) 720-3112 | ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Humanities Contact

Ben Waterhouse, Communications Director, Oregon Humanities

(503) 241-0543 | .waterhouse@oregonhumanities.org">b.waterhouse@oregonhumanities.org

OCF FIELDS FELLOWSHIP INVESTS IN OREGON ARTISTS AND COMMUNITIES

Four Oregon Artists Each Receive $150,000 Over Two Years

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Community Foundation, in partnership with Oregon Humanities, has named four Oregonians to the Fields Artist Fellowship, which awards $150,000 over two years to Oregon-based artists working to address issues within their communities through creativity and cultural expression.

• Amber Kay Ball (Portland)
• Yanely Rivas Maldonado (Salem)
• Talilo Marfil (Portland)
• Ernesto Javier Martínez (Eugene)

“These four people are amazing changemakers,” said Jerry Tischleder, Senior Program Officer for Arts and Culture at Oregon Community Foundation. “They have deep connections in their communities and are using creativity in vastly different and incredible ways to spark hope, inspiration and connection, and to raise voices that aren’t always heard. These investments come at times that will open doors for them in ways that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. It’s going to be amazing to see what they do.”

The Fellowship will support these creative individuals to advance their artistic practice and honor and sustain their commitment to create social change within their community. In addition to the $150,000 award, fellows will receive professional development, networking and community-building opportunities throughout the two-year term.

Community members across the state reviewed applications and interviewed finalists to select this cohort of fellows. The Fellowship term will begin in May 2026 and run through May 2028.

In addition to the four fellows, these other finalists will also receive a one-time award of $10,000.

• Oluyinka Akinjiola (Portland)
• Micah BlackLight Lael (Ashland)
• Chisao Hata (Portland)
• Anthony Hudson (Portland)
• Jose Antonio Huerta (Springfield)
• Fish Martinez (Siletz)
• Concepcion Samano (Falls City)

Artists of all disciplines and artistic media are eligible for the Fields Artist Fellowship, including writers, filmmakers, visual artists, multimedia artists, culture bearers and performance artists. Eligibility requirements include the following:

• At least five years of professional practice in an artistic discipline or combination of disciplines
• At least three years of residence in Oregon and the intent to reside in Oregon for the majority of the fellowship term (May 2026 to May 2028)
• Demonstrable evidence of artistic practice that can engage with community groups and organizations and/or address community concerns

Oregon Community Foundation, in partnership with Oregon Humanities, administers the program and convenes gatherings for the fellows. Funding is provided by the Fred W. Fields Fund of Oregon Community Foundation. This is the fourth cohort of Fields Artist Fellows, joining twelve previous recipients awarded in 2019, 2021 and 2024.

About the Artists

Amber Kay Ball (she/her) is a Citizen of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. Born in Portland, Oregon, she is a director, playwright, visual artist and community-based advocate. As a contemporary multi-practice artist, Amber uses theater, multimedia and beadwork as mediums for sharing stories, truths, laughter and joy. These mediums allow Amber to critically explore, honor and weave Native pasts, presents and futures in a just and liberated methodology. She is a co-founder of Native Playwrights PDX and works to support multigenerational Native theater-makers in the process of new play creation and direction.

Ball plans to use her Fields Fellowship to invest in time for new play development and creation, as well as share current works around Oregon with community. Her hope is to continue with more playwriting and theater making workshops to support more early career Native theater makers in sharing story and continuing advocating for our communities.

Yanely Rivas Maldonado (she/they) is a working-class printmaker, cultural worker and educator with ancestral roots in the mountains of Michoacán, Mexico — lands traditionally steward by the P'urépecha. Her art practice has been sowed in community and has flourished in the versatile soil of social justice movements and solidarity efforts she’s been a part of over the last decade. Their art is an offering and prayer for a world where we are all beautifully free and interconnected — living in good relationship with the lands, waters and beings that so graciously nourish our hearts. They create artwork to weave us across the continuum of past-present-future and to leave seeds of ancestral memory, resistance, joy and hope along the path back to center — back to home.

Yanely’s primary creative mediums are printmaking, digital illustration and social practice art. Over the last couple of years, she’s been deepening her art practice in traditional cultural arts including basket weaving, natural dyes, beadwork and gourd art.

Yanely plans to use the Fellowship as an opportunity to invest time in foundational arts training and creating a sustainable studio space for printmaking, natural dyeing and traditional crafts. The grant will support her vision to organize art 0fferings in her community and participate in a residency in Oaxaca, Mexico, while strengthening ties with cultural workers and bearers in the U.S. and Mexico.

"Receiving this Fellowship is truly a blessing. It gives me the time and space to go deep into my art practice in a way that I haven't been able to do before and in a way that feels sustainable and life-giving. I'm looking forward to all aspects of the journey and seeing what artistic seeds take root and bloom for me and my community long-term because of this opportunity." ~ Yanely Rivas Maldonado

Talilo Marfil (he/him) is a West Bisayan immigrant, Filipino American hip hop artist and community leader focused on advancing youth voice, cultural preservation and equitable access to creative resources. For over a decade, he has developed and led arts-based programs with marginalized youth, including co-founding Ascending Flow in East Portland and helping develop Keys, Beats, Bars at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority. He is the founder of Peer Tribe Foundation, which supports artists and leaders creating measurable impact in their communities. Talilo’s work centers storytelling as a tool for healing, self-advocacy and change. In the city of bridges, he serves as a bridge between culture, community and creative opportunity.

Through this Fellowship, Talilo will expand his music career while using his platform to attract and reinvest resources through Peer Tribe Foundation. The grant will support cultural exchange in the Philippines, sustain hip-hop workshops for youth in correctional facilities, and launch a portable recording studio project in Oregon.

“Receiving this Fellowship means I can pour back into the communities that shaped me. I’m looking forward to honoring ancestral knowledge, expanding access to creative resources, and creating spaces where young people see their voices as powerful and necessary.”~ Talilo Marfil

Ernesto Javier Martínez (he/him) is a queer Chicano/Puerto Rican writer, educator and filmmaker. He was born in Oakland, California, raised between Mexico and the United States, and currently lives in Eugene. He studied literature at Stanford and Cornell, becoming a university professor at the age of 28. Ernesto pivoted toward artistic work when he collaborated with illustrator Maya Gonzalez, authoring When We Love Someone, We Sing to Them, the first bilingual children’s book published in North America about a boy who loves a boy. This book earned two International Latino Book Awards and was selected for the American Library Association's “Rainbow Book List." He began working as a screenwriter and filmmaker when he collaborated with Director Adelina Anthony, writing and producing his first short film, La Serenata, winner of 11 best film awards and distributed by HBO Max. He later contributed to beloved children’s television programs such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Sesame Street, and Lyla in the Loop, and co-wrote Daniel Visits a New Neighborhood: The Movie (PBS Kids), introducing a new Latinx family to the Emmy-winning franchise.

Ernesto’s work has earned him the Lambda Literary Award, Imagen Award, Spark Award for Oregon Artists, HBO Latinx Short Film Competition Award, and fellowships from the Ford Foundation, Mellon Foundation, and NALIP.

This support comes at a pivotal moment as Ernesto is finalizing his first live action feature film La Serenata and beginning bold new projects that challenge stereotypes and inspire hope. Ernesto plans to produce an animated TV pilot, The Boy Who Became a River, a fantasy adventure that honors migrant struggles and uplifts queer Latinx youth. The grant will help him create sustainable ways to develop content in Oregon, while building a local creative community.

“Receiving the Fields Artist Fellowship is an incredible honor because it affirms the importance of telling stories that center queer Latinx youth. Too often, these voices are marginalized or erased, and this Fellowship gives me the resources and time to create work that celebrates their resilience, complexity and beauty. I’m excited to use this support to build imaginative worlds that inspire hope and belonging for the next generation.”~ Ernesto Javier Martínez

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

About Oregon Humanities

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Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Cleanup, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente & Community Gathering in partnership with Mike Bennett Studios

When: Monday, January 19, from 10 am to 12 pm (Cleanup) / 11 am to 4 pm (Gathering)

Where: 700 NE Fremont, Portland, OR 97212 | Map Link

EVENT DESCRIPTION: SOLVE’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Cleanup invites community members to care for Irving Park and the historic Albina neighborhood, followed by a creative community connection hosted by Mike Bennett Studios. From 10 am to 12 pm, volunteers of all ages will come together to remove litter and recyclables from Irving Park and nearby streets, helping keep this historic neighborhood welcoming while preventing waste from entering our waterways.

Following the cleanup, participants and neighbors are invited to cross the street to Mike Bennett Studios for a family-friendly community gathering celebrating service, creativity, and connection, including SOLVE-themed coloring sheets, warm drinks, snacks, along with an exclusive sneak peek of the first unreleased episode of the Zooquarium Podcast and Q&A with Mike Bennett and co-host Chanel Hason.

WHY: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, recognized as a National Day of Service, is a community-driven initiative paying tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy. It encourages all Americans to volunteer and contribute to making a positive change in their communities. Each year, SOLVE marks this day by hosting volunteer projects that honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy as well as bringing the community together.

SOLVE’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026 is presented by Kaiser Permanente and supported by Swire Coca Cola, the National Recreation and Park Association, Love Your Happy Place, and Portland Parks & Recreation as part of SOLVE’s broader effort to support community-led service projects across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

MEDIA CREWS: Arrive by 9:45 am under the covered basketball courts on the corner of NE Fremont and NE 7th to see approximately 300 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. Volunteers are expected to pick up trash and recyclables along NE MLK Jr Blvd and the adjacent neighborhoods.

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

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Mike Bennett, Portland-based cartoonist & owner of Mike Bennett Studios

Visit solveoregon.org/mlk or the event registration page for more information.

About SOLVE

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

Portland, Ore., January 12, 2026 – SOLVE is partnering with Mike Bennett Studios to bring together environmental service, art, and community connection during a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day cleanup and creative gathering at Irving Park.

Taking place on Monday, January 19, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Cleanup invites community members to care for Irving Park through litter removal, followed by a creative community connection hosted by Mike Bennett Studios. From 10 am and 12 pm, volunteers of all ages will come together to remove litter and recyclables from Irving Park and nearby streets, helping keep this neighborhood welcoming while preventing waste from entering our waterways. Cleanup supplies will be provided, and all ages are welcome.

Following the cleanup, participants and neighbors are invited to cross the street to Mike Bennett Studios for a family-friendly community gathering celebrating service, creativity, and connection. The gathering will feature SOLVE-themed coloring sheets, warm drinks, snacks, and conversation, along with an exclusive sneak peek of the first unreleased episode of the Zooquarium Podcast and Q&A with Mike Bennett and co-host Chanel Hason.

“This collaboration is about more than a cleanup,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “It’s about creating spaces where people come together across backgrounds to care for shared places, connect through creativity, and celebrate community, values that align deeply with Martin Luther King Jr. Day.”

Mike Bennett, Portland-based artist and founder of Mike Bennett Studios, added that partnering with SOLVE felt like a natural fit. “Art, community, and care for place are all connected. We’re excited to open our space as part of this day and celebrate the people who show up for their neighborhood.”

Event Details

• What: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Cleanup & Community Gathering
• When: Monday, January 19, 2026
• Where: Irving Park & Mike Bennett Studios
• Who: Hosted by SOLVE in collaboration with Mike Bennett Studios
• Highlights:
  • Community cleanup (10 am – 12 pm)
  • Creative gathering and Zooquarium Podcast release party (11 am – 4 pm)
• Registration: volunteer.solveoregon.org

The cleanup and community gathering offer a meaningful way to honor Dr. King’s legacy through hands-on service and shared creative experiences. SOLVE’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026 is presented by Kaiser Permanente, and part of SOLVE’s broader effort to support community-led service projects across Oregon and Southwest Washington. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information about the event and to register, visit solveoregon.org/mlk.

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. Learn more at solveoregon.org. 

About Mike Bennett
Mike Bennett is a Portland-based cartoonist and public joy creator who turns his imagination into real-life experiences. A former preschool teacher, he combines his love of art and education to create immersive installations and experiences where curiosity takes center stage.

The Zooquarium Podcast is a new educational podcast for curious kids of all ages who love animals. In each episode, friends from the community ask questions about animals, which are explored alongside invited scientists and artists. Co-hosted by Mike Bennett and Chanel Hason, the podcast blends curiosity, science, and creativity to make learning about the natural world accessible and engaging for all ages. Learn more at mikebennettstudios.com.