Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver Police Department Public Affairs Manager/PIO Kim Kapp will be unavailable December 22-January 2.  Deputy Chief Erica Nilsen will be handling PIO duties on these dates. She can be reached at ica.nilsen@cityofvancouver.us">erica.nilsen@cityofvancouver.us during regular business hours.

As always for after-hour inquiries, members of the media should contact CRESA on the media line and request a return call from an on-duty Sergeant. Any emails sent to Deputy Chief Nilsen outside of regular business hours may be returned on the next business day.

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MEDFORD, Ore.— Four Mexican nationals unlawfully residing in the United States made their initial appearance today after allegedly making false statements on their application to purchase firearms and for illegally possessing firearms.

Samuel Rodrigo Melo Santos, 27, Samuel Amador Ortega, 23, Aldo Melo Amador, 23, and Oscar Amador Ortega, 21, have been charged by criminal complaint with alien in possession of a firearm and making false statements on ATF Form 4473.

According to court documents, in July 2025, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigators, as part of a compliance inspection, began reviewing ATF Form 4473, known as the Firearms Transaction Records, of a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Cave Junction, Oregon. ATF Form 4473 must be completed by the person who is purchasing a firearm. During the inspection, investigators observed repeated sales of the same make and model of firearm by a group of individuals sharing the same address in O’Brien and Medford, Oregon, indicative of firearms trafficking.

As of July 22, 2025, O. Amador Ortega, has purchased 25 firearms from the FFL in Cave Junction and two other FFLs located in Southern Oregon. Since April 4, 2025, S. Amador Ortega has purchased a total of 16 firearms from this FFL. Melo Amador began purchasing firearms from the FFL in March 2024 and his last purchase was on June 14, 2025. In total, Melo Amador purchased 36 firearms from this FFL, and five other firearms from two other FFLs located in Medford. Since May 2024, Melo Santos has purchased 91 firearms from this FFL.

On ATF Form 4473, defendants wrote “Mexico” for place of birth and checked the box next to the United States for country of citizenship. An immigration query into Melo Santos, S. Amador Ortega, Melo Amador, and O. Amador Ortega concluded they have no legal status in the United States and are residing unlawfully in the United States.

Melo Santos, S. Amador Ortega, Melo Amador, and O. Amador Ortega made their first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

ATF is investigating the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper 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.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Dec. 18, 2025 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has expanded statewide flood response capabilities with the distribution of five additional high-capacity sandbagging machines through the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program. 

With this latest round of SPIRE investments, Oregon now has seven sandbagging machines strategically located across the state, strengthening local and regional capacity to respond quickly to flooding and other water-related emergencies. 

The new recipients include: 

• Malheur County Emergency Management 
• Harney County Emergency Management 
• Crook County Sheriff’s Office 
• North Bend Fire Department 
• City of Portland 

Harney County previously borrowed a sandbagging machine during the 2025 floods. Through this SPIRE allocation, the county now has a machine of its own, improving readiness ahead of future high-water events. 
 

High-Capacity, Mobile Flood Mitigation Equipment 

The machines distributed through SPIRE are Sandbagger Model II units with motorized augers, designed for rapid, large-scale sandbag production during emergencies. 

Each unit: 

• Fills four sandbags simultaneously 
• Can produce up to 1,600 sandbags per hour 
• Requires four people to fill bags and one operator to maintain the hopper using a front-end loader 
• Is lightweight and truck-portable, but comes with a trailer for easier deployment 
• Features a hydraulic, bi-directional auger and agitator to keep wet materials flowing 
• Includes four filling stations, safety grid and shield, auger and agitator, gas engine, and hydraulic motor 
• Is manufactured in the United States 

The sandbagging machines were purchased directly from the manufacturer and OEM partnered with the State of Oregon State and Federal Surplus Property warehouse for delivery, ensuring safe unloading and efficient distribution to local jurisdictions. 

Active Coordination and Pre-Positioning Underway 

In addition to expanding inventory, OEM and local partners are actively coordinating equipment movement to support current and potential flood operations across the state.

The Baker County/Halfway sandbagging machine is being deployed to Hood River County to support ongoing flooding operations. To maintain readiness in Eastern Oregon, Malheur County is moving its SPIRE-funded sandbagging machine to Baker County to stage, ensuring capacity remains available should additional resources be needed or units require movement west.

“Pre-positioning resources before impacts occur is one of the most effective ways to protect lives and property,” said Tabetha Daugherty, Eastern Regional Coordinator for Preparedness and Response at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “By coordinating equipment movement across regions, we’re ensuring communities have access to critical tools when and where they’re needed most.” 

This coordinated staging demonstrates how SPIRE equipment supports real-time operational needs while maintaining regional coverage. 

“From day one, jurisdictions have been stepping up to help each other — sharing equipment, staff, and expertise,” Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman, said. “That collaboration is critical when conditions are changing quickly, and communities are facing rising water.” 
 
Partner Engagement and Demonstration 

OEM highlighted the sandbagging machines at a recent Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) Council meeting on November 20th, giving partners an opportunity to view the equipment, discuss regional coordination, and plan for mutual aid use during flood and severe weather events. 

SPIRE investments are designed to enhance life safety, protect property, and support coordinated response efforts across Oregon. 

For more information about SPIRE or emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

Clark County Community Rallies for Housing + Homelessness Advocacy Day:
SWACH Charters Two Buses for Greater Vancouver Residents

VANCOUVER, Wash. (Dec. 18, 2025) — On Monday, January 26, 2026, advocates from across Clark County will travel across the state of Washington together to Olympia to raise their voices for safe, stable, and affordable housing during Housing + Homelessness Advocacy Day (HHAD) 2026, coordinated by the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance (WLIHA).

Council for the Homeless (CFTH), in partnership with Odyssey World International Education Services (OWIES), SW Washington Accountable Communities of Health (SWACH), and the SW Washington Equity Coalition (SWEC), is organizing a collective Clark County effort to ensure local voices are represented at the state capitol. This is a consistent commitment for the organizations and SW Washington to show up year after year. Two charter buses will depart from Vancouver, carrying community members, service providers, people with lived experience, and advocates committed to advancing affordable housing and homelessness solutions statewide.
Participants will rally on the Capitol steps and meet directly with legislators to advocate for strong policies and investments that address homelessness, expand affordable housing, and promote housing stability for all Washingtonians.

“HHAD is a powerful opportunity for our community to come together and speak directly to decision-makers about the urgent need for bold, compassionate housing policies,” said CEO Sesany Fennie-Jones, who is scheduled to address the crowd at the rally. “By traveling together, we’re demonstrating that Clark County is united and engaged in shaping solutions at the state level.”

Group registration for Clark County is open; register here. Those who sign up do not need to register separately with WLIHA as CFTH will submit a group registration. Space is limited, and seats on the charter buses will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

“This coordinated effort reflects a shared commitment among regional partners to uplift community voices and advocate for equitable housing systems across Southwest Washington,” said Heather Sheppard, Equity & Collaborative Impact Manager at SW Washington Accountable Community of Health.

HHAD Preparation & Day of Action — Monday, January 19, 2026; 12 – 3:00 p.m.

In observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, SWACH will host a Day of Action to prepare for HHAD, located at 311 W. 11th St., Vancouver, WA 98660. This community service event will bring together advocates throughout the community to identify shared policy priorities, create scarves and buttons to show collective support, and prepare participants to effectively share their stories with legislators.

For more information, to sign up for HHAD, and/or to learn more about the Day of Action, please email Maggie Bernetich, Annual Giving & Events Manager for Council for the Homeless, at mbernetich@councilforthehomeless.org.

# # #

About Council for the Homeless: Council for the Homeless (CFTH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County, Wash., by providing community leadership, compelling advocacy, and practical solutions to solve homelessness on an individual and community level. Founded in 1989, CFTH serves as the lead agency and coordinated entry for delivery of homeless services through the Continuum of Care for Homeless Services in Clark County, Wash.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County residents who are among the millions of people buying natural Christmas trees this holiday season can utilize local options to recycle their trees, giving them a new purpose after the holidays are over.

Recycled Christmas trees are chipped into mulch, which is a natural and low-cost product that can help conserve water and beautify garden beds and landscaping. When organic waste, like trees, rots in landfills, it creates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Before recycling a natural tree, all lights, tinsel, wire, ornaments and stands must be removed. Flocked and artificial trees cannot be recycled and should be disposed of in the garbage. Artificial trees in good condition may be donated to thrift stores or through buy-nothing groups on social media.

Waste Connections will accept natural trees from customers subscribed to yard debris or organics collection service. Taller trees must be cut into pieces no longer than five feet. Customers can place tree pieces inside of or next to their yard debris or organics cart for pickup on their scheduled service day. An additional fee applies if the tree is in addition to a full yard debris or organics cart.

Residents can also recycle natural trees of any size for a small fee (typically $5 or less) at the following locations:

• Central Transfer and Recycling, 11034 NE 117th Ave., 360.256.8482 
• City Bark, 2419 NE Andresen Road, 360.253.8461 
• H&H Wood Recyclers, 8401 NE 117th Ave., 360.892.2805 
• McFarlane’s Bark, 8806 NE 117th Ave., 360.892.6125 
• Triangle Resources, 612 SE Union St., Camas, 360.834.7253 
• West Van Materials Recovery Center, 6601 NW Old Lower River Road, 360.737.1727

Scouting America will collect trees for recycling in many areas of Clark County on Saturday, Jan. 4. The service is free, but donations are accepted. Flyers will be distributed in neighborhoods where this service will be offered. The Scout Tree Recycling website also has information about neighborhoods where pickup service will be available.

Waste Connections customers who do not have yard debris or organics service can put cut trees next to their garbage carts for disposal, and will be charged for an extra 32-gallon collection. Trees collected with garbage will be sent to the landfill and won’t be recycled.

More information about holiday waste and disposal is available on the Clark County Green Neighbors website.

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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A beloved holiday tradition returns with the Nathan Olsen Trio and Abiqua Academy Choir

Salem, Ore., December 18, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College invites the community to celebrate the holiday season with The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas on Saturday, December 20, at 7:00 p.m. The concert will take place in the Chemeketa Auditorium (Building 6), located at 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE in Salem, with parking available in the Purple Parking Area. 

Now in its third year at Chemeketa, this annual holiday favorite features the Nathan Olsen Trio—Nathan Olsen on keyboards, Andrew Kallenberger on bass, and Mark Powers on drums and percussion—and is joined this year by the Abiqua Academy Choir for a very special Christmas performance. The concert honors the spirit of Vince Guaraldi’s iconic 1965 soundtrack, blending faithful renditions with creative re-imaginings, rich sonic textures, extended musical explorations, and a few surprises along the way.

“This concert has become a cherished holiday tradition at Chemeketa,” said Auditorium Coordinator Stephen Munshaw. “We are proud to welcome back the Nathan Olsen Trio and to share this joyful collaboration with the Abiqua Academy Choir as we celebrate music, community, and the season together.”

Join Chemeketa for an unforgettable evening of jazz, holiday spirit, and timeless music that continues to delight audiences of all ages. Tickets are available through Eventbrite: www.eventbrite.com/e/the-music-of-a-charlie-brown-christmas-tickets-1770260690379?aff=oddtdtcreator

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For more than 50 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 17,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).
Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.

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

Hood River County has declared a local state of emergency in anticipation of current and upcoming significant weather events. Current weather forecasting anticipates heavy rainfall through this evening (12/18) and through Friday (12/19) morning, creating moderate to major flood risk for low-lying areas throughout Hood River County.

Safety is a top priority for our community. Please anticipate winter driving conditions (freezing rain, fallen trees, and slick roads) and only travel when necessary. Expect significant travel delays and visit Trip Check for current travel advisories. Do not drive through flooded areas.

Residents and business owners in low lying areas are asked to be aware that creeks, streams, and rivers are anticipated to rise. Monitor expected flood zones at weather.gov/portland under the rivers and lakes tab.

Hood River County will share more information as it becomes available. Make sure that you are signed up for county emergency alerts at Oralert.gov and monitor the Hood River County website and social media for updates.

WINTER WEATHER AND POSSIBLE LOCAL FLOODING
 

Heavy rainfall and winter weather are impacting Lincoln County and surrounding areas.  
 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for the Siletz River in effect from Thursday, December 18th to Friday, December 19th. Current estimates show the river is expected to rise above flood stage (16 feet) this evening and crest around 24.3 feet later tonight. It is expected to fall below flood stage Friday morning.
 

With heavy rain, debris, and rising river levels, roads may become unsafe. Significant rainfall and wind may cause hazardous conditions including local flooding and possible landslides.
 

Suggestion actions:

• Take appropriate preventative actions for possible winter weather, power outages, and flooding.
  • Winter Weather preparedness: www.ready.gov/winter-weather
  • Power Outage prepared: www.ready.gov/power-outages
  • Flooding preparedness: www.weather.gov/safety/flood
• Continue to monitor local conditions and alerts
  • Siletz River Level Monitoring: water.noaa.gov/gauges/SILO3
  • Other River Levels Monitoring: www.co.lincoln.or.us/757/Hazards-Flooding-River-Monitoring
  • Lincoln Alerts – Receive local emergency alerts:  member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
  • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Media Releases: flashalert.net/id/LCSO
  • LCSO Facebook Pages:  https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/ or www.facebook.com/lcemergencymanagement/
  • Weather conditions at weather.org
  • Road closures: tripcheck.com/
  • ODOT News Releases: www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx
  • ODOT Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/OregonDOT

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(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Tyler Shoop.

Tyler Shoop, age 15, is a child who went missing from went missing from Clackamas on Dec. 10. He was found Dec. 17.

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

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

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Testing to see how you get an email and alert through the app on your phone.  

December 18, 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 

Tips for a safer holiday season

PORTLAND, Ore. - The holidays can be a challenging time for people with substance use disorders. Here are some tips to make the season safer and brighter:

• Plan ahead: Prepare for potential triggers. Schedule healthy activities and avoid social situations that may lead to substance use.  
• Set boundaries: Practice declining substances with a trusted friend. Plan to be around safe and sober friends to avoid unwanted offers of substances.
• Stay connected: Maintain connections with support groups or support people during the holiday season.
• Engage in self-care: Prioritize mental health and well-being. Plan activities that promote relaxation and stress relief.
• Be prepared: Be familiar with your recovery plan and have a backup plan to handle any challenging situations that may arise.

Remember you are not alone - help is available.

Reach out for support:

• 988 Oregon: Call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1) or text 838255: Call 800-923-4357
• Alcohol and Drug Helpline: Call 800-923-4357
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• FindSupport.gov
• FindTreatment.gov

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December 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Brownlee Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Brownlee Reservoir in Baker County.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 8.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Brownlee Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected may still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs. Pet owners should therefore keep their pets away from areas that have the appearance of a cyanobacteria bloom.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Media hotline: 503-813-6018 

Pacific Power is prepared to respond to weather-related outages ahead of forecast storms

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 18, 2025) — Pacific Power is monitoring stormy weather for parts of Oregon and Washington in the coming days. The forecast indicates the potential for gusty winds and heavy rain, which could cause power outages.   

Pacific Power’s meteorology team is closely monitoring the approaching storms and crews are ready to respond to any weather-related outages.  

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.  

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:    

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.  
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.  
• Restock your outage kit.  
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.  
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.  
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.   

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.  

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas.   

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.   

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About Pacific Power 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Corbett Fire District’s Famous “Christmas Chicken” to Fly Again in East County

Corbett Fire District
Corbett, Oregon 97019
December 17, 2025

Only in Corbett will you find a chicken delivering Christmas gifts.

In the 1970s, the Corbett Fire District planned to rent a Santa Claus costume. However, they discovered that all Santa suits had already been rented. As a result, Nev Scott, the wife of the fire chief, rented a chicken costume instead. Originally, firefighters used the chicken to deliver gifts to the children of firefighters. Today, the program has evolved to assist families in need throughout the Corbett community during the Christmas season. In recent years, the community has donated as much as $6,000 to support the Christmas Chicken.

Each year, the Corbett Fire District responds to nearly 500 calls for assistance and often encounters families who could use extra support. Donations collected through the Christmas Chicken program are placed into a “community fund” that supports multiple families at Christmas, as well as other community initiatives such as the Sandy River life jacket program, a scholarship program for service-oriented youth, and an emergency assistance fund.

The Christmas Chicken will appear at the Corbett School campus on December 18, attending a school assembly. In the afternoon, the Chicken will visit CAPs classrooms in Springdale alongside the Corbett Cardinal.

Donations may be made at Country Coffee (located at the Scenic Highway and Lucas Road), Springdale Tavern, and Corbett Country Market. Checks may be made payable to Christmas Chicken and mailed to PO Box 1, Corbett, Oregon 97019. Donations may also be made via Venmo @CorbettFireAssociation.

The final flight of the Christmas Chicken will take place around Christmas, delivering gifts to families throughout the Corbett area. However, since the Corbett Fire District is the only fire district with a chicken on duty 24/7 year-round, it remains ready to deliver Christmas cheer at any time.

Contact: Jasmine Zimmer-Stucky  503-929-5950

VANCOUVER, WA — Vancouver Firefighters are proud to announce the success of the 2nd Annual Vancouver Firefighters Toy Drive, which collected more than 650 toys to help children in need across six elementary schools within the Evergreen Public School District this holiday season.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the community, donated toys were distributed to students at multiple schools, helping ensure that hundreds of local children experienced joy and excitement during the holidays. This year’s toy drive supported families at Image Elementary, Riverview Elementary, Endeavour Elementary, Mill Plain Elementary, Sunset Elementary, and York Elementary.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to donate,” said Vancouver Firefighters. “These toys represent more than gifts, they represent hope, kindness, and the reassurance to kids that their community cares.”

A special thank you goes to Bill Dunlap and Fire District 6, whose contributions went above and beyond. In addition to donating bicycles, safety equipment, skateboards, and scooters, Bill generously volunteered his time to help distribute toys directly to students at Image Elementary School, creating memorable moments for families and staff alike.

Vancouver Fire also extends heartfelt appreciation to Vancouver Firefighter/Paramedic Christian Vazquez and Vancouver Firefighter Zachary Day, who took time out of their busy schedules to assist with toy distribution and help make children’s holidays a little more magical.

Vancouver Fire would also like to thank I.A.F.F. Local 452 for their continued support and partnership, which played a vital role in making this year’s toy drive possible.

Toy drives play a critical role in supporting families facing financial hardship, especially as the need continues to grow. Rising costs of living have left many families struggling to meet basic needs, often making holiday gifts unattainable. Community-led efforts like this toy drive help fill that gap, ensuring children can still experience the joy and excitement of the season.

“Each year, we’re seeing increased need across our schools,” said Evergreen Public Schools School Resource Officers. “These drives are not just about toys, they’re about dignity, compassion, and strengthening the connection between first responders and the community we serve.”

Attached photos from Image Elementary, Riverview Elementary, and Endeavour Elementary highlight the impact of this year’s toy drive and the smiles created through this collective effort. Pictured are Vancouver Firefighter/Paramedic Christian Vazques and Vancouver Firefighter Zachary Day assisting with toy distribution.

Vancouver Fire wants to thank all donors, volunteers, and community partners for making the 2nd Annual Vancouver Firefighters Toy Drive a resounding success. We look forward to continuing this tradition of service in the years to come.

Just prior to 9 am this morning 12/18, crews from Vancouver Fire Department (VFD) responded to reports of a male that jumped into the Columbia River off the 205 bridge towards the Washington side.  Vancouver Fire Boat 1 (FB1) and Port of Portland Rescue Boat 80 (RB80) spotted and pulled the male out of the 50 degree water at 9:15. CPR and advanced life support was initiated once on board.  The unidentified patient was taken to Marine Park where AMR transported to Peace Health SW.

Picture of FB1 is taken at Marine Park with VFD and Port of Portland personnel onboard.  Both boat crews worked flawlessly together in treacherous weather and water conditions.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Shawn Hamilton died the morning of December 18, 2025. Hamilton was incarcerated at Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution (EOCI) in Pendleton and passed away in a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death. 

Hamilton entered DOC custody on June 26, 2023, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of January 4, 2030. Hamilton was 57 years old.

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

EOCI is a medium custody prison located in Pendleton. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Two Romanian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States made their initial appearances yesterday after being indicted by a federal grand jury for their role in a conspiracy to steal more than $160,000 of benefits from low income and food insecure individuals and families.

Alexandru Telescu, 29, and Aramis Manolea, 35, have been charged in a 26-count indictment with conspiracy to defraud the United States, access device fraud, possession, production, and trafficking of device-making equipment, and aggravated identity theft.

“We are deeply grateful to our partners for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the integrity of essential programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Those who steal these sacred funds will be held accountable, and we will ensure that these vital programs continue to serve the communities that rely on them.”

“This scheme effectively took food from the dinner tables of struggling American families,” said Carrie Nordyke, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Seattle Field Office. “We’re proud to help our law enforcement partners expose abuse of the SNAP Program and keep government assistance available for those who need it.”

“We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and IRS-CI for their steadfast work on this impactful investigation,” said Shawn Dionida, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA OIG) Special Agent-in-Charge.

According to court documents, beginning in April 2025, Telescu and Manolea, along with others, conspired to use stolen Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) account information and PINs to fraudulently purchase SNAP-eligible items, like infant formula and energy drinks. The defendants, along with their co-conspirators, also conspired to possess and use electronic devices to steal EBT account information and PINs from point-of-sale terminals in Oregon and elsewhere. The conspiracy used the EBT benefits at grocery stores in Oregon, Washington, and California. The stolen goods were packaged in storage units and loaded into vans and trucks for shipment to California.

For example, from July 4, 2025, through October 13, 2025, Telescu and co-conspirators used a Sam’s Club account in California to conduct approximately 231 fraudulent SNAP transactions using victims’ EBT accounts totaling approximately $102,000. From September 5, 2025, through September 9, 2025, Manolea and a co-conspirator used 10 separate EBT accounts in Oregon retail stores to steal approximately $8,739 in SNAP funds. On September 23, 2025, Telescu and co-defendant Andy Perovici installed a skimming device on a retail point-of-sale terminal in Tigard, Oregon, with the intent to capture EBT card account data and customers’ PINs.

Telescu and Manolea made their initial appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending trial.

The USDA OIG and IRS-CI are investigating the case with assistance from the United States Marshals Service for the District of Oregon, Eastern District of California, and the Central District of California, and the Oregon Department of Human Services. Geoffrey A. Barrow and Nicholas D. Meyers, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, are prosecuting the case.

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

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Donations mark another record-breaking year of giving for OnPoint, which supported more than 350 nonprofits in 2025

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon’s largest credit union donated an unprecedented amount to 350+ nonprofits across Oregon and southwest Washington. This year’s giving totaled more than $4 million, and focused on food and shelter, youth services, financial education, and environmental stewardship.

“The holiday season reminds us of what communities can accomplish when we come together,” said Rob Stuart, president and CEO of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “These nonprofits are feeding families, helping people stay housed and giving children a safe place to sleep. We are honored to advance their missions.”

The support comes at a critical time, as one in eight people in the region is experiencing food insecurity, according to Feeding America. $110,000 of OnPoint's total 2025 donations were earmarked specifically for food and shelter support services via an annual employee giving campaign.

OnPoint’s Employee Giving Campaign

Every year, OnPoint employees receive $50 each to allocate to the food or shelter nonprofit of their choice. The campaign, now in its ninth year, resulted in just over 1,270 OnPoint employees contributing a combined $53,085 to 225 nonprofits. Eight of those organizations received an additional $60,000 match from OnPoint to further advance their critical missions. The funds will be divided equally among the following groups:

• Centro Cultural: Provides culturally-specific free food to approximately 500-600 families and individuals weekly in Cornelius, Oregon.
• Path Home: With more unsheltered families in Oregon than any state in the nation, Path Home empowers families and children to get back into housing and stay there long-term.
• Marion Polk Food Share: Distributes nutritious food for individuals and families to more than 100 local partners, including food pantries and meal sites. It also delivers Meals on Wheels and operates an urban farm.
• Looking Glass Community Services: Provides comprehensive services to teens in crisis, including emergency shelter for homeless youth.
• J Bar J Youth Services: Provides shelter, transitional living, family mediation, and counseling for homeless youth.
• Council on Aging of Central Oregon: Provides meals for adults ages 60 and older through Meals on Wheels and Community Dining in Central Oregon.
• FISH of Vancouver: Provides emergency food boxes to those in need through its food pantry.
• YWCA of Clark County: Dedicated to empowering women, preventing violence and eliminating racism and other forms of oppression. It is the only Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter in Clark County.              

“At Marion Polk Food Share, $1 donated provides 3 meals in our community, which means that the employees of OnPoint Community Credit Union have provided more than 22,000 meals for the people in Marion and Polk counties this holiday season,” said Rick Gaupo, president & CEO, Marion Polk Food Share. “All we can say is thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for shortening the distance between families and the nutritious food they need to thrive."  

To learn more about OnPoint’s charitable giving, visit onpointcu.com/community-giving.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, with assets of over $9.5 billion and serving more than 631,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 18, 2025 | Audio available at 10:00 AM

CONTACT INFORMATION: ah.E.CUNNINGHAM@employ.oregon.gov">Sarah Cunningham, Projections Economist, (503) 871-0046

Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 6% by 2034

The Oregon Employment Department projects Oregon’s total employment to grow by 141,000 jobs between 2024 and 2034. These employment projections reflect modest job growth in the economy, although many additional job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations.

In 2024, there were 2.2 million jobs in Oregon. The projected 6% increase in employment between 2024 and 2034 includes private-sector gains of 125,500 jobs, growth of 7,700 jobs in government, and an additional 7,400 self-employed Oregonians.

All broad sectors in Oregon are expected to add jobs by 2034, except for federal government, which is projected to decline by 3% (-1,000 jobs). The private health care and social assistance sector is projected to increase the fastest, growing by 13%. Private health care and social assistance is also projected to add the largest number of jobs over the next 10 years (+40,400 jobs). This growth is attributed to the aging of the state’s population, longer life expectancies, and an expected rebound in the state’s long-term population growth.

The construction and professional and business services sectors are projected to grow at the second-fastest rate, gaining 10% each. Growth in construction can be attributed to construction of buildings (+11%) and specialty trade contractors (+11%), which includes establishments that perform specific construction-related activities such as site preparation, plumbing, painting, and electrical work.

Growth in professional and business services is expected to be primarily driven by professional and technical services (+15%), which includes architectural and engineering services (+23%), computer systems design and related services (+10%), and legal services (-3%).

Many of the fastest-growing occupations are associated with jobs in the health care industry. Nine of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations by 2034 are in health care. They include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical and health services managers, and psychiatric technicians. Computer and mathematical occupations comprise three of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations, as demand increases for workers who can model, interpret, and analyze data in addition to demand for the development of AI solutions and their integration into business practices. They include data scientists, information security analysts, and operations research analysts.

A broad variety of career opportunities will be available across all sectors, as well as all job types. Four out of 10 job openings will require education or training beyond high school, but applicants will require education beyond high school to be competitive in six out of 10 job openings.

Occupations with the most job openings that typically require a high school diploma or less include fast food workers, stockers and order fillers, retail salespersons, cashiers, and home health and personal care aides. Those requiring a postsecondary certification or associate’s degree include bookkeepers, truck drivers, nursing and medical assistants. Occupations with the most job openings requiring at least a bachelor’s degree vary from general and operations managers to registered nurses, other educational instruction and library workers, project management specialists, and all other business operations specialists.

All areas of Oregon are expected to see job opportunities in the coming years due to economic growth and the replacement of workers leaving the labor force. The two areas projected to grow faster than Oregon's rate of 6% are the Portland tri-county area (7%) and Central Oregon (7%). Slower growth is expected in the Columbia Gorge, Northwest, South Central, Southwestern Oregon, and the Eastern Six Oregon counties with 5% growth each.

Additional Information

More information on 2024-2034 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at www.qualityinfo.org/projections. 

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

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

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Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
December 18, 2025

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR 2026 IRIS AWARDS HONORING WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Award recipients to be celebrated at the Iris Awards Luncheon, a signature event of GVC’s Inspire HER Conference

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with Presenting Sponsor Riverview Bank, announces that nominations are now open for the 2026 Iris Awards, one of southwest Washington’s most distinguished honors recognizing women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, philanthropy, and community impact.

Originally launched in 1985 as the Women of Achievement awards and reintroduced as the Iris Awards in 2012, this long-standing program continues to uplift women whose influence strengthens the region’s economy, nonprofit sector, and communities.

Award recipients will be celebrated at the Iris Awards Luncheon on Thursday, March 12, 2026, held during GVC’s Inspire HER Conference, a premier leadership event dedicated to celebrating and empowering professional women across all industries.

“Each year, the Iris Awards shine a light on women whose leadership, vision, and service strengthen the fabric of our region. These honorees remind us what’s possible when passion meets purpose. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and to invite our community to help us recognize the women who make southwest Washington a better place to live, work, and thrive,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO at the Greater Vancouver Chamber.

Nominations for the 2026 Iris Awards are open to the public, and submissions may be made online at VancouverUSA.com/Iris-Awards. The nomination deadline is Saturday, January 31, 2026. To explore past honorees and learn more about the program’s legacy, visit VancouverUSA.com/Blog/Iris-Award-Honorees-1985-Present.

The 2026 Iris Awards Luncheon is presented by Riverview Bank, with support from Award Sponsors Legacy Health and OnPoint Community Credit Union. For event details, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket information for the Inspire HER Conference and Iris Awards Luncheon, visit VancouverUSA.com/Inspire-Her.

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About the Iris Awards

Wanting to recognize women of achievement in southwest Washington who exemplified leadership, philanthropy and community service was the inspiration for what is today the Iris Awards. This recognition program was launched in 1985 as Women of Achievement. For 40 years, the southwest Washington community has nominated outstanding women for recognition. The Iris Award was held to commemorate National Women’s History Month, to recognize International Women’s Day, and to honor volunteer efforts and community leadership of women in Clark County. 

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. 

DEER AND ELK WINTER MIGRATION

The Central Oregon Coast is experiencing its seasonal cold weather. Although the weather slows down our daily commute, we are not nearly as affected as wildlife, specifically elk and deer.

Natural food sources are lean in the upper elevations in the coast range during the winter as snow falls, covering the ground. This time of year with snow accumulation in the coast range and freezing temperatures periodically down to sea level, elk and deer may move to even lower elevations to find adequate food.

These additional movements often mean that the animals are crossing major roads both day and night which creates hazards to motorists. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like motorists and spectators to be mindful of the animal movements. If you see one deer cross in front of you, chances are there is another one behind. 

Please take into account that the animals are often stressed due to additional migration in search of food. When spectating please keep a minimum distance of 100 yards from wildlife. If the animals begin to move from your presence, don’t follow them. Oregon Revised Statute 498.006 does protect the chasing or harassing of wildlife.

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

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Beginning on December 18, 2025, the Lincoln County Jail will now offer access to video visitation in the lobby. The addition of video visitation access in the lobby allows those individuals who do not have internet, or access to a smartphone to video visit adults in custody. The lobby kiosk is an extension of our long-standing video visitation service provided by Turnkey Corrections. Video visitation fees are charged at a per minute rate.

Established visitors can use the lobby kiosk to log directly into their existing account, while new users can create an account onsite.

Lobby visitation is available daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adult in custody availability may vary based on housing location and scheduling.

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is pleased to announce the award of nearly $1 million in grant funding to support a range of robust and innovative local veteran service efforts and key projects to help improve veteran outcomes and provide critical services across Oregon.

The Legislature approved $972,653 for the Veteran Services Grant program for the 2025-27 biennium, which was first established following Oregon voters’ overwhelming support of Measure 96 in 2016 dedicating 1.5 percent of Lottery net proceeds to fund veteran services. ODVA received proposals from across Oregon totaling more than $3.6 million in requested funds. Of these, 16 organizations were selected to receive awards, which range from approximately $10,500 to $145,000 for the one-time grants.

The awards include projects and services focusing on veteran homelessness and housing insecurity, transportation access, education and training, employment opportunities, and other critical services in communities across the state. The grant awards will benefit veterans and their families living in rural, urban and Tribal communities.

The projects were evaluated by a committee composed of members of the Veterans Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, representatives from various veteran service organizations, as well as other provider partners from across the state.

“This grant isn’t just about dollars — it’s about investing in people, communities, and ideas that help veterans build stable, fulfilling lives here in Oregon,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels. “Through the power of these locally driven, community-led solutions, we’re strengthening partnerships and building resilient systems that support the diverse needs of veterans across our state. The work of the Veteran Service Grant Program helps ensure that every Oregon veteran has the opportunity to thrive, no matter where they live.”

The ODVA Veteran Services Grant recipients for the 2025-27 cycle are:

• American Military Encouragement Network (AMEN)
• Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
• Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
• Fort Kennedy
• Housing Our Veterans
• Lake County Senior Citizens Association
• Linn County Veterans Services
• Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments
• Paws Assisting Veterans
• Reveille and Retreat Project
• Solid Ground Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy Center
• St. Andrew Legal Clinic
• VetREST
• Wallowa Valley Center for Wellness
• Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services
• Wheeler County Community Transportation

To learn more about the Veteran Services Grant or other grant opportunities available through ODVA, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odva/agency-programs/grants/Pages/Veteran-Services-Grant.aspx.

Veterans and families seeking claims and benefits assistance are encouraged to contact their local county or Tribal veteran services office. To find services near you, visit www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/default.aspx.

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

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The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA), Oregon's only trade association dedicated to the banking industry and its customers, along with the OBA Education Foundation (“Foundation”), elected its board officers and directors during a joint annual meeting held on Dec. 12 in Portland.

New OBA officers include:

• Chair: R. Shane Correa, SVP – Retail Strategy & Market Development, Banner Bank
• Chair-Elect: Joshua Lyons, Market President – Oregon & SW Washington, KeyBank
• Secretary-Treasurer: Kate Salyers, EVP & Chief Credit Officer, Citizens Bank
• Immediate Past Chair: Ryan Dempster, President & CEO, Willamette Valley Bank

Newly elected OBA directors:

• Nic Bley, EVP & Chief Operating Officer, Heritage Bank
• Lance Nunn, President & CEO, Oregon Coast Bank

In addition to the newly elected officers and directors, the OBA membership re-elected the following directors to new three-year terms:

• Ted Austin, SVP & National Director of Trust Administration, U.S. Bank
• Denise Portmann, President & CEO, Bank of the Pacific
• Kate Salyers, EVP & Chief Credit Officer, Citizens Bank

These new and re-elected directors join the following individuals currently serving terms on the OBA board:

• Jeff Bailey, President & CEO, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• R. Shane Correa, SVP – Retail Strategy & Market Development, Banner Bank
• Ryan Dempster, President & CEO, Willamette Valley Bank
• Ron Green, President & CEO, Oregon Pacific Bank
• Jeff Lang, Executive Director – Banking, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Medford
• Joshua Lyons, Market President – Oregon & SW Washington, KeyBank, Portland
• Nicole Sherman, President & CEO, Riverview Bank
• Dee Dee Smallwood, SVP & Global Public Policy, State Government Relations, Bank of America
• Jason Wessling, President & CEO, Pacific West Bank
• Ex-Officio Officer and Synergy by Association Chair: Trey Maust, Executive Chairman, Lewis & Clark Bank

New OBA Education Foundation officers include:

• Chair: Lisa Fajardo Faust, EVP & Chief Banking Officer, Pacific West Bank
• Vice-Chair: Neal T. McLaughlin
• Secretary-Treasurer: Scott Bruun, President & CEO, Oregon Bankers Association

Newly elected Foundation directors:

• Becky Kindle, EVP & Chief Operations Officer, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Brad Webster, EVP & Chief Banking Officer, Citizens Bank

Re-elected Foundation directors:

• Stuart B. Allen, Chief Executive Officer, Allen Trust Company
• Elise Bouneff, SVP & Relationship Banking Officer, Heritage Bank
• Joan Reukauf, President & CEO, Pacific Coast Banking School

These elected officers and directors join the following individuals currently serving terms on the Foundation board:

• Lisa Fajardo Faust, EVP & Chief Banking Officer, Pacific West Bank
• Neal T. McLaughlin
• Linda Navarro, Director, Citizens Bank
• Becky Tymchuk, Board Member, Northwest Regional ESD
• Ex-Officio Director & OBA CEO: Scott Bruun, President & CEO, Oregon Bankers Association
• Ex-Officio Director & OBA Penultimate Past Chair: Ted Austin, SVP & National Director of Trust Administration, U.S. Bank

“Oregon’s banking industry is strongest when leadership reflects the full breadth of our industry,” said OBA President and CEO Scott Bruun. “OBA’s new officers and directors bring perspectives from community banks, regional institutions, and larger banks alike, and that diversity of experience strengthens the OBA and our ability to serve banks across the state.”

Bruun also thanked outgoing OBA chair Ryan Dempster for his leadership during his one-year term, noting his steady guidance and dedication to the association. In addition, Bruun expressed deep appreciation to Rich Brown, who recently retired from the OBA Education Foundation board after serving as chair since the Foundation’s founding in 2013. “Rich’s vision, commitment, and leadership were instrumental in shaping the Foundation and advancing its mission for more than a decade,” Bruun said.

Legacy executives are under fire for refusing to meet and bargain in good faith with frontline healthcare providers. 

(Portland, Ore.) – Oregon elected officials are coming out in support of striking advanced practice providers (APPs) and urging Legacy executives to “work around the clock” to reach a fair agreement that addresses healthcare providers’ concerns and ends Oregon’s first APP strike.

The group of 10 Oregon representatives and a state senator shared their concerns in an open letter to Legacy CEO Dr. George Brown Dec. 17 saying:

“Oregonians cannot afford further delays, disruptions or missteps when it comes to their healthcare. Every day without an agreement adds stress to an already-fragile healthcare system. We are calling on Legacy to act responsibly and sit down with APPs immediately to resolve this dispute and ensure local healthcare is accessible, affordable and delivers on Legacy’s mission ...”

Legislators echoed APPs’ concerns about, “deteriorating working conditions, inequitable compensation, unpaid labor and repeated refusals by Legacy to engage in good faith bargaining” and reiterated the need to restore stability and affordability throughout the healthcare system.

• Click here to read the full letter from Oregon state legislators.

The APPs, including nurse practitioners, physician associates and clinical nurse specialists at Legacy hospitals and clinics, began an open-ended strike Dec. 2 after Legacy executives refused to continue contract negotiations. APPs have offered to meet with Legacy executives every day since Nov. 20 in an effort to reach a fair agreement. But Legacy has refused to bargain until recently.

The only bargaining dates currently scheduled are Dec. 18 and 22.

Oregon’s elected leaders aren’t the only ones siding with striking APPs. Recently, two new groups of Legacy providers voted to join the strike. APPs at Legacy Go Health clinics will hold a two-day strike alongside striking hospital and clinic APPs on Dec. 21 and 22. Legacy Pediatric APPs will also hold a solidarity strike with their APP colleagues Dec. 22 and 23.

The expanding strike and support from elected leaders reflects widespread frustration with Legacy’s bargaining approach and with APPs' working conditions systemwide.

APPs at Legacy’s hospitals and clinics have been working for more than a year and a half to try to reach a contract agreement with Legacy executives. They are demanding a fair contract that raises standards for patients, gives frontline providers a voice in their workplace, and stems turnover through competitive compensation.

The 140 (APPs) at Legacy Health are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). ONA represents more than 3,500 frontline healthcare providers at Legacy.

Strike lines are located at Legacy Good Samaritan and Legacy Emanuel hospitals from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check ONA’s social media feed for the latest schedule updates.  

Community members can visit OregonRN.org/RespectAPPs to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the APPs, and stay informed about the impact of the strike.  

A reminder to patients from APPs:   

If you are sick, please do not delay getting medical care. Patients who need hospital or clinical care immediately should go to receive care. We would prefer to provide your care ourselves, but Legacy executives’ refusal to continue meeting with APPs has forced us to strike to advocate for you, our communities, and our colleagues. Going into a hospital or clinic to get the care you need is NOT crossing our strike line. We invite you to come join us on the strike line after you've received the care you need.  

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The Oregon Department of Revenue (DOR) will open the application period in January 2026 for the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit.

Paying overtime to agricultural workers became a requirement of employers in Oregon as of January 1, 2023. In 2025, agricultural workers are paid overtime after they work 48 hours in one work week. If an employer paid overtime, they may qualify for a refundable personal or corporate income tax credit, regardless of the size of the business.

The tax credit for employers is a percentage of overtime premium pay paid as wages.

All applications must be submitted no later than February 2, 2026. 

The 2025 filing period marks the third year since eligible employers have been able to apply for the tax credit.

Applications can only be made through the department’s Revenue Online website. Qualifying agricultural employers who have not applied for the tax credit previously need a Revenue Online account to apply during the application period. No paper applications will be accepted. We have published a new video to help customers with their Revenue Online applications.

DOR encourages employers to prepare in advance to ensure an easier and faster filing experience. DOR’s webpage provides guidance for how to apply, documentation you may need, program information, and frequently asked questions to help employers apply for the tax credit.

For general questions about the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit, email: time@dor.oregon.gov">Ag.Overtime@dor.oregon.gov.

Tax practitioners with other tax or customer account questions are encouraged to contact a dedicated practitioner specialist by email at ac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov" target="_blank" title="mailto:prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov">prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov, or by phone at 503-947-3541.

Tigard Public Library operations will shift temporarily to Tigard City Hall early February to receive needed updates to the building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

During this intensive phase of construction, the library building will be closed to allow large equipment, such as a new chiller unit, to be installed on the library’s roof. Workers will then integrate the new unit into the building’s duct system.

“We are grateful to the City of Tigard for investing in this new HVAC system and Public Works team for managing this project that will make our building a more comfortable, efficient, resilient space for years to come” said Halsted Bernard, Director of Library Services at Tigard Public Library.

Construction is planned to be completed by May 2026. Services will return to the library building once this phase is complete.

Accessing Library Services During Construction

Tigard Public Library will provide express library service on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at Tigard City Hall, 13125 SW Hall Blvd, throughout the construction period.

Express services include books for checkout, programs such as storytimes, assistance from staff for finding books, library accounts or other information, access to Wi-Fi and computers, and technology help. Library teammates will also provide services at partner events and spaces.

Community members continue to have access to library services at any of the 15 Washington County Cooperative Library Service (WCCLS) member locations and online at wccls.org.

“We are committed to providing library services to the Tigard community, and we will meet these challenges with community members as our top priority,” added Director Bernard.

Visit www.tigard-or.gov/library for service updates and details about this project.

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PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting five free guided hikes at Tryon Creek State Natural Area on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes in partnership with America’s State Parks to offer free guided hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hikes hosted at Tryon Creek State Natural Area is below:

• Join our forest exploration hikes. Choose from 5 hikes of varying lengths. All hikes 2 miles and longer will traverse natural surface trails with root heaves and have moderate elevation gain. 
  • 9 a.m. — 5-mile hike over varying terrain and difficulty levels, relatively fast-paced on rustic and minimally maintained trails. This will be an exercise hike.
  • 9:30 a.m. — 4-mile hike along multiple trails and varying terrain.
  • 10 a.m. — 3-mile hike along multiple trails and varying terrain. 
  • 10:30 a.m. — 2-mile hike along multiple trails and varying terrain.
  • 11 a.m. — .25-mile hike on the fully-paved Trillium trail. No elevation gain but occasional root heave.
• Meet at the Friends Circle in front of the Nature Center for all hikes, 11321 S Terwilliger Blvd., Portland. Parking is limited at Tryon Creek. Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your hike to allow time for parking.
• Friendly dogs are welcome on six-foot leashes. 
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes appropriate for rain and bring water and snacks. 
• For more information, call 503-636-9886. 

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Hugh Davis, 503-636-9886. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1. 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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BUXTON, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host a free guided First Day Hike at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

OPRD is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park:

• Join us for a New Year's guided hike at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park! Highlights include forest ecology, scenic views, photo opportunities, and a fire pit at the meeting location.
• The hike starts at 9 a.m. Meet at the Hilltop Day-use area picnic shelter. 30380 NW Hwy 47, Buxton, OR 97109.
• 3-mile round-trip hike through the forest over easy to medium difficulty trails, moderate elevation gain. The route is a compacted dirt trail that is narrow in certain sections, making it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
• Leashed dogs are welcome. Please bring water for your companion. No bicycles on the hike.
• Dress for the weather, wearing hiking boots or comfortable shoes with good traction. We will hike regardless of rain or snow, so bring warm, breathable clothes, gloves, and a windbreaker or raincoat. Pack a water bottle and snacks, and feel free to bring your phone or camera for photo opportunities along the way.

For more information call 503-324-0606.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation in the hike at Stub Stewart State Park, please get in touch with Park Manager Aaron Raines at 503-324-0606. Requests must be submitted at least three days before January 1. 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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SILVERTON, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host two free guided hikes at Silver Falls State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

OPRD is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day.

Information about the 9 a.m. hike and 11 a.m. hike at Silver Falls State Park is below:

• Join us as we explore the new North Rim Trail that opened in summer 2023. The hike is 1.5-miles, round trip through the forest. We’ll stop at the spectacular North Falls Viewpoint before our return trip.
• The theme for the 9 a.m. hike is Lichens of Silver Falls and visitors will get a chance to explore the amazing diversity of lichens found at the park. The theme for the 11 a.m. hike is Sense and Sensibility and will focus on using all of the senses during the hike and learning how to prepare for a trip in the outdoors. 
• Meet at 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. at the North Canyon trailhead, near mile point 28 on Highway 214. The parking lot is 3 miles north of the South Falls day-use area. GPS directions may not be accurate for this location.  When you arrive, look for "First Day Hike" signs leading you to the meeting point.
• The trail surface is compacted gravel, and the trail is 6 feet wide and has a 5% slope or less. Most mobility devices can navigate this trail.
• Leashed dogs are welcome.
• Participants in both hikes should dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear shoes appropriate for the activity and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 503-689-5122.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Matt Palmquist at 503-689-5122. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1. 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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ESTACADA, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will offer two free guided First Day Hikes at Milo McIver State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

OPRD is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided hikes at parks across the state on New Year’s Day. Milo McIver State Park will host two hikes, one at 10 a.m. on the Dog Creek Trail and the other at 1 p.m. on the Maple Ridge Trail. 

Dog Creek Trail hike at 10 a.m.:

• On this half-mile hike, the guide will share the ecology of the park, including the Mt Hood watershed, clean drinking water and future healthy salmon and steelhead populations. Learn about the significance of the Pacific Yew tree and many other tree species and native plants found in the park as well as the role state parks play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
• Meet at 10 a.m. at the Dog Creek Trailhead - Riverside Day-use Area parking lot, 24101 S Entrance Road, Estacada.
• The hike terrain is generally flat aside from a few bridge crossings and a slight gain in elevation. The dirt and compacted trail surface is accessible to wheelchairs with assistance in some areas.
• No dogs allowed.
• Participants should dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear shoes appropriate for the activity and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 503-630-7150.

Maple Ridge Trail hike at 1 p.m.:

• This 1.5-mile, moderate hike passes through an older forest. We’ll explore winter ferns, mossy canyons and expansive big-leaf maple groves.
• Meet at 1 p.m. at the Maple Ridge Trailhead - Riverbend Day-use Area E parking lot, 24101 S Entrance Road, Estacada. The trailhead is at the far end of the lot.
• The approximately one-hour hike will loop through the Cedar Knoll Trail and return to the same trailhead.
• No dogs allowed.
• Participants should dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear shoes appropriate for the activity and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 503-630-7150.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please get in touch with Park Ranger Matthew Nelson at 503-630-7150. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1. 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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TROUTDALE, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host a free guided hike at Guy Talbot State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

OPRD is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at Guy Talbot State Park:

• Join us on a 0.4-mile hike on a paved/hardscape trail along the creek and underneath a historic 1914 bridge to the base of Lower Latourell Falls.
• Weather permitting, rangers will host an outreach table at Guy Talbot Shelter. They will share facts about the area and distribute coffee. Visitors can choose to take a self-led hike or join a ranger-led hike to Lower Latourell Falls. Ranger hikes will be limited to groups of fewer than 15 people. If weather conditions make hiking unsafe, we will switch to hosting an outreach table at the Vista House at Crown Point, where we'll discuss the creation of the Gorge and the Vista House.
• Meet at 9 a.m. Guy Talbot SP picnic shelter: 42746 NE Latourell Rd, Corbett, OR 97019
• Trail has a slight elevation gain and minor obstacles like root heaves and un even terrain. The trail is not wheelchair friendly.
• No dogs allowed in the Vista House.
• Participants should dress in layers, be prepared for rain, wear walking or hiking shoes and bring water and snacks.
• For more information call 503-695-2261.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Elika Paki at 503-928-0077. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1. 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at the Vista House at Crown Point State Scenic Corridor. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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WASCO, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is offering a free guided First Day Hike at Deschutes River State Recreation Area on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at Deschutes River Recreation Area:

• Join us on a ranger-led, three-mile hike on the historic Deschutes River Trail through the Deschutes River Canyon. The hike will start on the Deschutes River Trail and continue onto the Blackberry Trail, where you will be able to walk along the river’s edge to view the area’s natural flora and fauna.
• Registration required.
• This hike is on flat, packed with dirt and gravel terrain. Expect a relatively flat trail with some moderate hills.
• The hike starts at 9:30 a.m. and begins at the Oregon Trail Kiosk at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy hiking boots and gloves and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Expect cold weather conditions.
• No pets allowed.
• For more information, call 541-739-2322.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation in the hike, please contact Cottonwood Canyon Park Ranger Abby Fatland, 541-739-2322. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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WASCO, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is offering a free guided First Day Hike at Cottonwood Canyon State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at Cottonwood Canyon State Park:

• Join us for a 3-mile, out-and-back hike on the Pinnacles Trail. The trail follows the John Day River canyon through stunning geologic formations in a natural desert landscape. Look closely for mule deer, red-tailed hawk and our resident herd of California bighorn sheep.
• This hike is on flat, packed dirt and gravel terrain. Expect some narrow and sloping trail sections. Not ADA accessible. Strollers are not recommended.
• The hike starts at 10 a.m. and begins at the Experience Center. The Experience Center will be open after the hike for visitors to warm up and visit.
• Friendly dogs on a six-foot leash are welcome.
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy hiking boots and gloves and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Expect cold weather conditions.
• For more information, call 541-394-0002.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation in the hike, please contact Cottonwood Canyon Park Ranger Asa Miller, 541-394-0002. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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TIERRA DEL MAR, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area:

• Join a park ranger for a 2.5-mile guided hike through Sitka Sedge State Natural Area. Experience birdwatching on the Sandlake Estuary, hike through a coastal upland dune forest, and take a stroll along the beach. The hike provides scenic views of the estuary, and the ranger will identify plants and animals while answering any questions.
• Registration required.
• The 12 p.m. hike will begin at the trailhead parking area at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area located off Sandlake Road, north of Pacific City and south of Sandlake. If the main parking lot is full, there will be overflow parking across the street.
• The first half mile of the trail features compacted gravel and has a slight slope, but it is otherwise flat, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. After this section, the trail narrows and the surface becomes softer.
• Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome.
• Dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call (503) 812-2403.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Supervisor Travis Korbe, (503) 812-2403. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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MANZANITA, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at Oswald West State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the Oswald West State Park hike:

• Join us for a First Day Hike with a park ranger and a guest from the North Coast Land Conservancy at Oswald West State Park. Explore the old-growth forest and discover the natural and cultural history of the oldest state park on the north Oregon Coast. We will also be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Cape Falcon Marine Reserve.
• Registration is required.
• The hike starts at 10 a.m. and begins at Oswald West State Park’s main parking lot near Short Sands Beach Trail Head, 41575 Oregon Coast Hwy, Nehalem, OR 97131.
• The approximately 1-mile hike will be relatively level with few ups and downs. Surfaces will include compacted gravel, sand, dirt, root intrusions, potholes, and possibly mud.
• Participants should dress in warm layers and pack rain gear. Sturdy, closed-toed shoes with ankle support are recommended. Bring pen and paper, water, and snacks for yourself along the hike.
• Contact the park office at 503-812-0650 for more information.

If you have questions about access, please contact Park Ranger, Nathan Emmett at 503-812-0650.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park office.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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ASTORIA, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at Fort Stevens State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike at Fort Stevens State Park:

• Join us for a 1-mile and learn about the history of Fort Stevens, Battery Russell and the WWII Japanese submarine attack. There will also be opportunities for birding, wildlife viewing and plant/fungi identification.
• Meet at 10 a.m. in Battery Russell parking lot.
• Trail is mostly natural surface and paved bike trail along a moderately steep hill.
• Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome. Strollers are not recommended due to terrain.
• Dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear sturdy shoes and bring water, snacks, a camera, or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 503-861-3170.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Dane Osis, 971-388-9030. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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NEWPORT, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Paddle at Brian Booth State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the paddle at Brian Booth State Park (Beaver Creek):

• This is a two-hour guided kayak paddle on the Beaver Creek Marsh, where paddlers will soak in the beautiful flora and fauna of the area.
• Registration required
• The 10 a.m. tour departs from the Beaver Creek boat launch, just east of Hwy 101 on N Beaver Creek Rd., directly across the highway from Ona Beach.
• The water will be calm with no tidal influence or rapids. Moderate physical exertion: a brief tutorial is provided. Using a kayak paddle will require upper body strength and the use of two hands to wield the paddle for two hours. Previous kayaking experience is recommended but not required.
• This is a drug and alcohol-free event. No pets allowed.
• Please bring water to drink, shoes that can get wet, and whatever else will make you comfortable while paddling on the water for 2 hours in potentially inclement weather. We recommend a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and clothes that can be layered.
• Kayaks, paddles, and personal floatation devices are provided; no personal equipment is allowed.
• Single kayaks may be operated by anyone age 16 and up. Tandem kayaks may be operated by anyone aged 18 and up, accompanied by a passenger aged six and up. Kayak weight limit is 400 pounds.
• This program is weather-dependent. If winds of 20 miles per hour or more are forecasted for the day of the event, it will be cancelled. If necessary, cancellation will occur 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
• For more information, call 541-265-6949.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Becca Givens, 541-272-7394. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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This year, Oregon Lottery’s holiday Scratch-it tickets are available in five festive designs, ranging from “Make It Merry” to “Sleigh Ride Riches.” The tickets, priced from $2 to $30, make popular stocking stuffers and can be found at Oregon Lottery retailers across the state.  

Scratch-its are a fun, last-minute gift idea since there’s no concern about choosing the right size or color. But there is one important consideration – make sure lottery tickets are only given to those 18 years old and up.  

“Oregon Lottery Scratch-its are an ideal adults-only gift: simple to give, packed with possibility, and guaranteed to add a touch of excitement to every celebration,” said Stacy Shaw, who leads Oregon Lottery’s Safer Play program.

Throughout the year, the Oregon Lottery and lotteries worldwide partner with the National Council on Problem Gambling to promote gifting lottery tickets responsibly. The Oregon Lottery has been part of this annual campaign for over a decade. In addition, Oregon Lottery helps fund free, confidential, and effective counseling and treatment programs statewide. Visit OPGR.org for more information.

For those over 18 picking up Scratch-its, winning tickets range from a few dollars to the “Holiday Wishes” top prize of $200,000. Use the Oregon Lottery mobile app to see if you won and enter non-winning tickets into the free Second Chance drawings. Regardless of the outcome, lottery games help fund programs that Oregonians care about.

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. Since 1992, $155 million in Lottery dollars has been directed to fund problem gambling treatment and awareness in Oregon. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

SALEM, Oregon— Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday Jan. 1.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1^st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, LaPine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike's webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With collectively more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 900 million people annually, state park systems across the country are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more about America’s State Parks at stateparks.org.

Media Resources: photos available at this link.

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This morning at 5:10, Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported water rescue near NW Highway 47 between Oak Street and Sunset Drive. An individual called 911 and stated they were in water and couldn’t walk out. The call was dropped and dispatchers were unable to reconnect with them for further details.

Units from the sheriffs office arrived on scene first and were able to make verbal contact with the patient. They began to walk into the marsh area being guided in by talking to the patient. They had to go through thick vegetation as well as water that was said to be 4 feet deep.

Once access was made, approximately 100 feet from the highway, the deputies with assistance from our firefighters were able to walk the patient out to the highway. Once on the highway, the patient was assessed by AMR and then transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

To verify no one else was still out in the area, deputies utilized a drone with thermal camera to check the area. No one else was found. It is unknown why or how the individual made it to the location.

While there were several emergency vehicles on scene, the highway remained open during the incident.

We were assisted on scene by Washington County Sheriff's Office, AMR Washington County and Oregon Department of Transportation.

• Rainfall of 2-3 inches could fall over 24 hours
• At times, rain could fall at a rate of ¼ inch per hour
• Watch https://hww.onerain.com/ for current conditions

Salem, Ore. — Heavy rain and winds are expected in Salem and the surrounding areas Dec. 18-20. The heaviest rain is expected between 4 a.m. Dec. 18 and 4 a.m. Dec. 19. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Northwest Oregon, including the Mid-Willamette Valley, beginning late evening Dec. 17 through late evening Dec. 19.

The National Weather Service has described this system as a high-impact, strong atmospheric river event with significant rain and wind.

We are continuing to monitor the situation and have three sandbag locations in central, south and west Salem locations. Please visit the City's Sandbag Map for up-to-date information on sandbag locations. 

The Willamette River could rise to 22 feet overnight Dec. 19-20, prompting preparations for potential flooding in City parks along the Willamette River. Those who use Minto-Brown Island Park and Wallace Marine Park should be cautious of flooding.

Salem’s large creeks and urban streams — Mill Creek, Mill Race, Shelton Ditch and Lower Pringle Creek below Winter Street Bridge — are also forecast to rise quickly through Dec. 18 and into Dec. 19, with the highest flows for Salem’s smaller streams cresting overnight Dec. 18 into Dec. 19.

For Mill Creek, the crest is expected early Dec. 19 south of Cascade Gateway Park, and midday for areas north of Cascade Gateway Park, including Shelton Ditch. In addition, forecasted rainfall rates are high enough to potentially cause issues throughout the storm drainage system, causing excess high water and flooded roadways.

Our High Water Watch webpage https://hww.onerain.com/ features up-to-the-hour information on Salem stream levels and local rainfall amounts. Sandbag filling stations are available at several locations. Salem residents are encouraged to visit Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage to see up-to-date information about stream levels, current road conditions, and additional high water safety tips to protect your home.

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report high water or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Washington man was sentenced to federal prison today for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and endangering the welfare of a minor.

Guadalupe Escamilla, 63, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and 12 months in custody and one year of supervised release for endangering the welfare of a minor, to be served concurrently.

According to court documents, in December 2023, Escamilla transported a minor victim from Washington to Oregon and checked into a hotel room with her at the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). On December 4, 2023, the Umatilla Tribal Police Department found drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine on the minor victim. The minor victim reported that Escamilla told her to hold onto the drugs. An additional search of her belongings revealed two small bags of rainbow-colored fentanyl pills, also attributable to Escamilla. Officers also found approximately 95 gross grams of methamphetamine in the hotel room that Escamilla and the minor victim were staying in.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant on Escamilla’s Facebook account and phone, finding numerous messages involving selling fentanyl and methamphetamine in Eastern Oregon and Washington.

On April 8, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Escamilla with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On September 10, 2025, Escamilla pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and endangering the welfare of a minor.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Umatilla Tribal Police Department with assistance from the CTUIR Department of Children and Family Services and the CTUIR Tribal Prosecutor Victim and Witness Assistance Program. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady A. Adams.

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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has virtually activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in response to an incoming atmospheric river expected to bring heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and increased landslide risk across western Oregon. The ECC will be supported with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication, coordination, and resource support for impacted communities. 

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall is expected Thursday and Friday, with conditions shifting south over the weekend. Saturated soils and steep terrain, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires, may lead to landslides and debris flows. This will be accompanied by high wind gusts along the coast, in the coastal mountains and some inland areas. 

Stay alert and take precautions: Turn Around, Don’t Drown 

• Be aware of limbs that may have come loose in the windstorm and be cautious of falling branches. Make sure outdoor furniture and decor is secured. 
• Listen for unusual sounds such as cracking trees or rumbling rocks. 
• Watch for sudden changes in water flow or color. 
• Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised. 
• Do NOT drive or walk through flood waters. There are unseen hazards like open storm drains and metal debris, and cars can be swept away in even a few inches of water. 
• Understand the additional burn scar risks. 
• The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office urges you to be careful using alternative power sources during power outages. 

Stay Informed 

OEM also reminds Oregonians to prepare for future flooding and landslide risks: 

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on mobile devices. 
• Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr. 
• Create and review your evacuation plan and understand the evacuation levels (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!). 
• Stay informed through trusted sources like local emergency managers, county sheriffs’ offices, and public land agencies. 
• Check road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511.  
• Check out OEM’s Real-time Assessment and Planning Tool for Oregon (RAPTOR) and GIS to see up to the minute hazard updates. 
• See flooding inundation maps for your area on the NOAA website. 

Stay Connected 

Sign up to receive the latest updates from OEM and explore preparedness tips, including how to Be 2 Weeks Ready for any disaster, at Oregon.gov/OEM.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On December 16, 2025, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Theodore Sims found Brandon Drew Falsetto, age 29, guilty of two counts of luring a minor and one count of private indecency in a bench trial. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant was known to the victim’s mother and provided childcare to the child while the mother worked. While babysitting, he showed the victim a video of himself having sexual intercourse with a woman. On a different day, he brought the victim to a sauna at their condominium complex and masturbated in front of the child.
 

The defendant, who was on probation for unlawful use of a weapon and assault 4 domestic violence convictions, jumped from his third-floor balcony when law enforcement attempted to speak with him about these allegations. He was arrested and taken to the hospital.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting this abuse. This office also thanks the Hillsboro Police Department for its work on this case.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 4, 2026. The defendant will remain in custody pending sentencing.

MEDFORD, Ore.—An Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for embezzling more than $250,000 from her employer and evading over $50,000 in federal taxes.  

Notja Michelle Brower, 53, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $310,106 in restitution to her victims.

According to court documents, in July 2018, Victim Business 1 (VB1) hired Brower as a bookkeeper and office manager. Within one month of her hire, Ms. Brower began defrauding VB1 by issuing herself unauthorized company checks and pocketing thousands of dollars in cash payments. She then altered VB1’s business records to conceal her thefts as business expenses and payroll draws. Brower also fraudulently opened a credit card in the personal name of a VB1 owner and used that card to purchase over $20,000 in travel, casino, restaurant, and exotic car rental expenses. Brower then made payments to that credit card using VB1’s business checking account.

Also, for tax years 2018 and 2019, Brower willfully failed to report the embezzled funds as income, resulting in over $250,000 in unreported income and a total tax due and owing of $57,705.

On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a twelve-count indictment charging Brower with bank fraud, wire fraud, unauthorized use of an access device, aggravated identity theft, and tax evasion.  

On March 10, 2025, Brower pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of tax evasion.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.  

# # #

SALEM, Ore. — At about 1 a.m. Dec. 17, an overflow of untreated sewage into the Willamette River occurred in the 100 block of Union Street NE. The incident was resolved by 1:30 a.m. About 1,700 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled.

This sanitary sewer overflow resulted from a power outage at the Union Street Sewer Lift station caused by the overnight winter windstorm.

To protect public health, signs have been posted advising residents to avoid contact with the water in the Willamette River due to potentially elevated bacteria levels. Water quality testing is underway and will continue until results confirm the issue has been resolved. Any bacteria introduced into the river should naturally flush out within the next few days.

If you notice an overflowing sewer manhole or want to report a spill, please contact the Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311.

You can help prevent sewer backups and overflows by keeping fats, oils, rags and grease out of the sewer system. Learn more about preventing sanitary sewer overflows and the City of Salem’s efforts to reduce these events by visiting https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/household/water-utilities/wastewater/how-to-prevent-sewer-back-up.

For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6311 or email us at vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

12/17/2025 3:30 PM

Media Contact:

Lieutenant Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6556 / cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – UPDATE

Corvallis, OR – December 17, 2025

This release serves as an update to information previously provided regarding the incident that occurred on December 16, 2025, in the 800 block of NW 23rd Street.

At approximately 8:30 a.m. on December 16, 2025, law enforcement personnel responded to the 800 block of NW 23rd Street to execute a warrant related to a stolen firearm. During the execution of the warrant, the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Corvallis resident Jacob Jaeger, barricaded himself inside a room in the middle of the residence. Jaeger stated he was armed with a handgun and refused repeated requests to exit the residence.

Over the next approximately three and a half hours, law enforcement personnel from the Corvallis Police Department, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, and the Linn County Regional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team utilized telephone communication, loud hailing, and drones in an effort to achieve a peaceful resolution.

At approximately 11:50 a.m., SWAT team members defeated a locked door, allowing limited access to the room where Jaeger reported he was located. Jaeger was subsequently found deceased inside the room as a result of an apparent drug overdose. Life-saving measures were immediately attempted by law enforcement personnel and Corvallis Fire Department medics; however, those efforts were unsuccessful. A loaded handgun was found in proximity to Jaeger.

The incident remains under investigation. No further information will be released at this time.

Tualatin, OR – The City of Tualatin is proud to announce that work is continuing on the six acres that will make up the new Riverfront Park off Boones Ferry Road, located across from the Tualatin Public Library and downtown Tualatin. The currently unnamed Riverfront Park is being imagined as a peaceful nature escape that will provide easy access to the Tualatin River.
 

The public may notice that City staff have begun clearing invasive species and restoring a portion of Hedges Creek. In addition, the three houses currently on the new park land are scheduled to be removed within the next few weeks. The property was sold to the City by Maggie Robb, who resided there for 50 years.
 

Looking ahead, staff are in the process of bringing in consultants to assist with the next phase of Riverfront Park, with plans to begin community engagement in summer 2026. The City worked with the University of Oregon’s SCYP Timber Tectonics program in the fall of 2025 to begin visualizing the park.
 

For more information about the City of Tualatin’s parks and trails, visit tualatinoregon.gov/recreation. This park is made possible by the Parks and Trails Bond passed by voters in 2022.

Klamath County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 6:40 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 255, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Gordon Travis Gilmer (37) of Sacramento (CA), lost control, entered the northbound lane, and struck a Toyota Hilux, operated by Triston Charles Morrow (26) of Chiloquin, head-on.

The operator of the Toyota (Morrow) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Gilmer) and passenger, Christian Octavio Rodriguez (28) of Rosamond (CA), suffered reported minor injuries. A second passenger of the Chevrolet, James Devon Cozart Jr. (19) of Rancho Cordova (CA) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by Chiloquin 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.

A Tualatin company intentionally kept a faulty system in place for storing raw materials, exposing employees to struck-by and crushing hazards, an inspection by the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has found.

Avalon International Aluminum, a maker of metal door and window framing, willfully violated a safety rule by refusing to follow the installation and maintenance requirements set by the manufacturer of its industrial storage racks.

The decision allowed hundreds of pounds of raw materials to sit atop unanchored cantilever storage racks, some with damaged or upside-down baseplates, rising as high as 18 feet. The situation left employees, who reached the raw materials by hand and forklift, exposed to potential bodily harm.

Oregon OSHA issued a citation to the company for two violations: one “willful,” involving the storage racks, and the other “serious,” for failing to guard a belt sander at a nip point where hands and fingers could get mangled or cut off. The violations amounted to a total penalty of $28,478. The company remains under an order by Oregon OSHA to correct the willful violation. During the inspection, the company corrected the belt sander violation.

A willful violation occurs when an employer knowingly violates a workplace safety or health requirement. It is a type of violation rarely cited by Oregon OSHA.

“Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, employers are responsible for understanding and following the safety and health requirements that apply to their industries,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “To knowingly disregard those requirements can only be described one way: inexcusable.”

A complaint prompted Oregon OSHA to open the inspection of Avalon International Aluminum. Oregon OSHA completed its inspection in November. The division’s examination of the company’s operations included interviews with employer representatives and employees, conversations with a manufacturer of the storage racks, walk-throughs of the company’s warehouses, measurements, and photo documentation. Among the findings: an estimated 40 baseplates for the storage racks were unanchored to the concrete floor; an estimated four baseplates were damaged; and an estimated three baseplates were installed upside down.

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal. Avalon International Aluminum filed an appeal of its citation. Oregon workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions. They have a right to speak up when those conditions are lacking or absent. Employers must create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces. Oregon OSHA offers nonenforcement resources to employers that want help with improvements or that have questions about requirements:

Consultation services – provides free help with safety and health programs including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Oregon OSHA also offers free online training services and publications in English and Spanish, and key information for workers and employers.

###

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.

Deschutes County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 5:34 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 127, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler Pacifica, operated by William Longhway Sargent (79) of Bend, crossed into the northbound lanes for unknown reasons and sideswiped a northbound Landrover Range Rover, operated by John Bowman Browning III (18) of Redmond, and a Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Joseph Anthony Russo (25) of Terrebonne, before striking a northbound Freightliner commercial motor vehilce and trailer, operated by Johnny Edward Jantzen Jr. (61) of Red Bluff (CA), head-on. 

The operator of the Chrysler (Sargent) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Landrover (Browning III), Chevrolet (Russo), and Freightliner (Jantzen Jr.) were reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes 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.

Josephine County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:53 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 9, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Econoline, operated by Dakota Mcleod Palmer (27) of Ashland, lost control of the vehicle, left the roadway, and struck a utility pole. 

The operator of the vehicle (Palmer) was transported to an area hospital with reported minor injuries.

A passenger of the vehicle, Kyle Dewayne King (50) of Elgin (TX), was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Rural Metro 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.

PR 16-25                                                           

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025

CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 971-207-8390

BPA responding to widespread weather-related outages
Region-wide weather system posing challenges on lower-voltage BPA lines, utility distribution lines

Portland, Ore. – Bonneville Power Administration experienced over 40 transmission outages across its service territory due to extreme weather experienced in the early morning of Dec. 17.

Bonneville crews are at various stages of identifying outage causes and making repairs as needed with several points of delivery serving BPA’s utility customers out of service.

On Tuesday night, a strong cold front collided with much warmer than average air, resulting in widespread gusty winds that coupled with already saturated soils and trees.

Impacts to BPA’s electric grid were mostly felt in lower voltage ranges of 115-kilovolt lines and below. BPA crews are responding to outages across our service territory, with a heightened focus on outages impacting communities along the Oregon northern coast and southwestern Washington, including Driscoll, Astoria, Tillamook and Forest Grove. BPA is working in conjunction with PacifiCorp and local impacted utilities such as Wahkiakum Public Utility District, Tillamook People's Utility District, City of Forest Grove, Western Electric Co-op and others.

BPA crews have identified numerous off-right-of-way trees in both transmission and distribution lines across our service territory.

To enable as many resources and crews as possible in response to this event, BPA suspended all non-critical, life-safety related maintenance outages across its service territory. Additionally, any lines that were out of service for routine maintenance were returned to service to ensure transmission capacity and availability to reroute power as needed.

Many of BPA’s customer utilities are experiencing significant impacts on their own distribution systems, and BPA is actively working through mutual assistance aid agreements to provide help where needed.

About BPA: BPA is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, affordable and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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Hello Discovery Families,

We are planning to use FlashAlert as a tool this inclement weather season to send emergency communication to our Discovery Families in the event of an emergency closure.   These alerts may come to you prior to a post to Facebook or updating the Website.  We are adding this tool because FlashAlert can send email updates as well as push notification alerts (similar to text messages) to Android and iOS devices.

To sign up for these alerts and stay up-to-date in emergency situations, please use the following instructions:

1. Go to: OMEGA Gymnastics News via Flashalert.net

2. Enter your email address and click the blue Subscribe button.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions from there to verify your email address.

Once you have created your account, you can download the app on your mobile device and attach your new account to receive push notification alerts on your mobile device (SMS alerts to phone, etc):

a. Download the Android app by clicking here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flashalert.messengers

b. Download the iOS app by clicking here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/flashalertmessenger/id6741482087

How to Attach a Messenger Account to the App Once you have created a Messenger account, you can attach it to the app so you will receive push notification alerts on your mobile device:

1. Open the app and click Account Settings.

2. Then, click LOGIN/CREATE ACCOUNT.

3. Enter your email and password.

4. Click Attach My Existing FA Messenger Account.

5. If your mobile device asks to approve the app for notifications, make sure to approve the FlashAlert app for all notifications if you want to receive alerts. 

We are just starting to use this tool as an organization to be able to get text messages out to families.  We strongly recommend both parents and any family members that are responsible for drop-off and pick-up sign up with Flash Messenger on their phones and subscribe to OMEGA Gymnastics.   Please note that you won't be able to reply to alerts sent from FlashAlert as they are sent from a service, not us directly.  Let us know if you have questions.

Sincerely,

Inetha 

Inetha Fleming, Operations Manager

Columbia County, Ore (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:42 P.M., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 47, near milepost 58, in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Ram, operated by Todd Alan McCarthy (60) of Vernonia, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck a utility pole and trees before coming to a rest off the roadway.

The operator of the Dodge (McCarthy) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Vernonia Police Depertment, Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Vernonia 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.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants to fill up to two seats on a fifteen-person board that advises the county on matters related to the county-owned Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

Applicants with railroad or railroad-related experience, or business experience using freight-rail service desired.

Board members serve three-year terms. Terms are anticipated to begin after Jan. 1, 2025. Applications are accepted until the positions have been filled.

Those interested in applying should submit a letter of interest and/or resume to ailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov">PWRailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov or by mail to 4700 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665.

More information about the Railroad Advisory Board is available on the county website.

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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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – TriMet’s Transit Police Division and the Portland Police Bureau have arrested an 18-year-old man who is accused of threatening a community member with a firearm on a TriMet bus in the Kenton neighborhood.

This investigation began at 8:02 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, when the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received information about a man who reportedly displayed a firearm on a bus.

The circumstances leading up to the incident remain under investigation.

Based on the preliminary information, the suspect, later identified as Michael Sherman,18, got off the bus and boarded a TriMet MAX train at the North Lombard Transit Center, located near North Interstate Avenue and North Lombard Street.

Transit Police approached the MAX train as it entered the Rosa Parks MAX Station. As they did, Sherman is accused of running east – last seen near North Rosa Parks Way and North Maryland Avenue.

Transit Police and Portland Police quickly surrounded the area to contain Sherman to a single square block.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) responded to the scene to conduct a methodical search.

BOEC sent out a community notice using the PublicAlerts system to people inside the perimeter warning them of the police activity and advising them to stay inside.

During the search, law enforcement recovered a firearm in a backyard near North Rosa Parks Way and North Maryland Avenue.

Around 11:30 a.m., PPB located Sherman in the detached garage of a vacant home in the 6400-block of North Maryland Avenue and took him into custody without incident.

There were no reported injuries during the incident and no shots fired.

Sherman will be booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on charges that include menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, interfering with public transportation, disorderly conduct, escape, recklessly endangering another person, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a loaded firearm in public.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Portland Police Bureau appreciate the community’s patience during this incident. Several roads were temporarily closed to facilitate the safe and effective movement of law enforcement.

Photos from the scene are being released. Media may use these photos, crediting the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.

At this time, no additional information can be released.

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change. 

Portland's community notification system is called PublicAlerts. Click here to sign up. PublicAlerts sends information by text, email, and voice message about how to stay safe during an emergency.

About Transit Police:  

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties.

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

About Portland Police SERT:

The mission of the Portland Police Bureau’s Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) is the preservation of life and property during critical incidents and high-risk operations.

SERT provides tactical response and expertise in support of all branches of the organization. The presence of highly trained, highly skilled police officers working in conjunction with a Crisis Negotiation Team and under the direction of a Critical Incident Commander has shown to substantially reduce the risk of injury or loss of life to citizens, police officers, and suspects; and recognizing that a well-managed response to critical incidents typically results in a successful and peaceful resolution.

SERT responds to incidents such as barricaded suspects, hostage events, active shooters, block searches for armed suspects, high-risk arrest or search warrants service, terrorist acts, and other events requiring resources beyond the capability of a typical patrol response. 

(Above Portland Police Bureau photo)

(Above Portland Police Bureau photo)

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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon fire service, road crews, and power companies are busy cleaning up after a strong windstorm that swept across the Pacific Northwest. The storm knocked out power to thousands of Oregonians. The Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the danger of carbon monoxide when heating or temporarily powering your home. The deadly gas can build up quickly in your home.

“Carbon monoxide is a deadly odorless and tasteless gas produced by generators, propane heaters, and other carbon burning sources,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Having working carbon monoxide alarms in your home and taking a few simple steps can mean the difference between life and death.”

Carbon monoxide safety tips:

• Only use heaters intended for indoor use.
• Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Always use generators outdoors in a well-ventilated space, at least 20 feet from any building or opening.
• Ensure proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, and dryers.
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and check for any gaps, leaks, or rust.
• Never leave a car running in the garage.
• Always use barbecue grills outside away from all doors, windows, vents, and any building openings.

Oregonians should also know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:

• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• confusion

If you experience these symptoms, leave the area, get to fresh air, and call 9-1-1.

First responders see an increase in calls related to carbon monoxide during the winter months. It is important to practice these carbon monoxide tips as more storms are forecasted over the coming week. For more tips, please check out the fire safety section of our website at oregon.gov/osfm or the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The Oregon State Fire Marshal works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at about 1:20 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies and officers from the Hillsboro Police Department responded to reports over the radio that deputies were chasing a man running from the courthouse.

24-year-old Elijah Carrillo-Saucedo was out of custody at the time that he appeared before the Washington County Circuit Court on charges stemming from a 2022 assault case. Carrillo-Saucedo was appearing at a probation hearing, and Judge Wipper had just revoked Carillo-Saucedo's probation.  Judge Wipper sentenced him to 51 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections.  Before court security deputies arrived in the courtroom to take Carrillo-Saucedo into their custody, he hugged a family member and ran out the door.

Deputies and Senior Deputy District Attorney John Gerhard chased and caught up to Carrillo-Saucedo within a few blocks of the courthouse near the intersection of NE 3rd Avenue and NE Jackson Street in Hillsboro.

Carrillo-Saucedo was arrested and charged with escape in the second degree.

On December 16, 2025, a Washington County Grand Jury heard evidence supporting the escape charge and issued an indictment.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful that the incident was resolved safely and is thankful for the quick responses from deputies, officers, and the deputy district attorney. 

Testing subscription information for posting OMEGA future weather closures.

On December 13, 2025, at approximately 10:39 a.m., Albany Police officers were dispatched to a residence in the 4000 block of Edgewater Drive NE for a report of a possible fentanyl overdose.

Upon arrival, family members were performing CPR. Officers immediately administered Narcan and took over CPR compressions. Paramedics from the Albany Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter and determined the individual was showing no signs of life. Lifesaving efforts were discontinued.

The victim, Pavel P. Kokhanevich, age 35, of Albany, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

As a result of continued investigation, Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Taskforce (LINE) detectives arrested Austin Wade Floyd Nelson, age 26, on December 14, 2025, at approximately 6:05 p.m. Nelson was arrested on charges of Possession, Manufacturing, and Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl), as well as multiple outstanding warrants.

This investigation remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available and is legally appropriate to share.

                                                                                                                                             #     #     #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Media hotline: 503-813-6018  

Pacific Power crews respond to outages related to overnight storms 

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 17, 2025) — Pacific Power crews are responding to widespread outages across Oregon and Washington related to a storm system that brought high winds and rain to the region, impacting roughly 50,000 customers. 

Field crews are actively working to restore power in several areas, with the most significant impacts in Clatsop County and the mid-Willamette Valley. Due to severe storm damage, some customers in those areas may be without power overnight.  

“Our crews have been working hard around the clock to assess damage and make necessary repairs to get the power back on,” said Erik Brookhouse, vice president of system operations. “We understand losing power can be disruptive and inconvenient and we want to thank customers for their patience as our crews continue their work.” 

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.   

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:     

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.   
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.   
• Restock your outage kit.   
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.   
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.   
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.    

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.   

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines and keep pets far away from those areas.    

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.    

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About Pacific Power  

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

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brittini Lasseigne

CEO, YWCA Clark County

C  509.413.9710

blasssiegne@ywcaclarkcounty.org

Community Nominations Needed for Val Joshua Racial Justice Award

Nominations due by January 5, 2026

Vancouver, WA  — YWCA Clark County and NAACP Vancouver are now accepting nominations for the 2026 Val Joshua Racial Justice Award, which recognizes individuals, groups, or organizations in Clark County who are leading efforts to eliminate racism and promote equity. Nominations are open through January 5, 2026 and available online at ywcaclarkcounty.org/val-joshua.

Now in its 36th year, the Val Joshua Racial Justice Award continues the powerful legacy of Val Joshua, a beloved local leader and lifelong advocate for racial justice, education, and community unity. The award honors those who embody her spirit of courage, compassion, and commitment to creating a more just and inclusive community.

“Every year, this award is a chance to celebrate the people and organizations creating meaningful change right here in Clark County,” said Brittini Lasseigne, YWCA Clark County CEO. “These stories of advocacy and action remind us that racial justice work is ongoing—and that local leadership matters.”

The 2026 recipient will be recognized at YWCA Clark County’s Shine Gala on March 21, 2026, where they will direct a $1,000 gift to an equity-driven organization of their choice or affiliation.

Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals or organizations whose work demonstrates a deep commitment to anti-racism, justice, and equity-building.

YWCA Clark County and NAACP Vancouver have partnered for decades to promote racial justice through education, advocacy, and collaboration. The Val Joshua Racial Justice Award remains a cornerstone of that shared mission—to recognize those lighting the path toward a stronger, more equitable Clark County.

About YWCA Clark County

Founded in 1916, YWCA Clark County began as a lunch counter serving women in the workforce. The organization has grown to provide five core programs to vulnerable populations including the SafeChoice Domestic Violence program which operates our community’s only dedicated shelter and housing assistance options for those experiencing intimate partner violence.  Through community programs and partnerships, YWCA Clark County advances equity, safety, and opportunity for people of all genders and backgrounds. Learn more at www.ywcaclarkcounty.org.

About NAACP Vancouver

NAACP Vancouver, founded in 1945, works to ensure political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights for all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination. Learn more at www.naacpvancouverwa.org.

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December 17, 2025

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

Oregon Health Authority responds to Measure 110 audit from the Oregon Secretary of State

PORTLAND, Ore. — Historically, Oregon’s behavioral health system has gone underfunded and overburdened. Today, with renewed focus and broad alignment, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), is working to change that, reimagining what treatment can look like across the state when accountability meets action. An audit released by the Secretary of State shows that the agency has taken significant steps to strengthen program oversight and ensure responsible, effective use of Measure 110 dollars.

This important work is underway and producing meaningful results. As of today, there are 234 Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) grantees across the state, with one in each county. These services include culturally and regionally specific care that connects or re-connects patients with the communities they call home. With each step taken to improve Oregon’s behavioral health system, lives are saved, bonds are rebuilt, and barriers to care are lowered for those who need it most.

“OHA appreciates the results of this audit and is acting with urgency on the findings,” said OHA’s Behavioral Health Division Director Ebony Clarke. “We are committed to ongoing work to strengthen oversight, responsible stewardship of Measure 110 dollars, and ensuring that every person in Oregon has access to the behavioral health services they need.”

OHA acknowledges initial implementation of Measure 110 was challenged by tight timelines and insufficient staffing. However, in the last year OHA has significantly grown and stabilized the Measure 110 program through improved leadership, management, and staffing.

As noted by the SOS Audits Division, regular legislative changes since 2020 have impacted OHA's ability to establish and stabilize BHRN programming and oversight.

OHA acknowledges past Measure 110 data limitations and has invested in Measure 110 data improvements. The data collected by the 234 grantees and submitted to OHA has increased dramatically. Through implementation of the Strategic Data Plan, OHA is already charting a forward-looking evaluative approach that emphasizes ongoing performance measures and BHRN provider-reported indicators. This method better captures program outcomes through programmatic and client-level metrics collected quarterly. These metrics will be publicly available via the BHRN program quarterly dashboard, which will provide aggregate data on program activities and service level metrics.

History of What Was Audited

Measure 110 was a ballot measure passed by Oregonians in 2020 to expand addiction services and social supports through redirected marijuana tax revenue and law enforcement savings.

As noted by the Secretary of State’s Audits Division, several legislative changes since 2020 have impacted OHA’s ability to establish and stabilize the Behavioral Health Resource Network’s (BHRN) programming and oversight. During its first years, these changes altered timelines, expectations and funding formulas. Most notably, HB 4002 (2024) shifted one of the foundational tenants of the original legal framework by recriminalizing drug possession and changed how people access BHRN services. Declining cannabis tax revenue and criminal justice cost savings have also reduced available funds.

Despite these shifts, OHA remains focused on maintaining statewide access to treatment, harm reduction and recovery services. Even with funding instability for Measure 110’s BHRNs, OHA has ensured available funds are used efficiently and effectively to support essential behavioral health services statewide.

OHA Implementation and Program Improvements

Following two previous audits, OHA continues to take clear action – responding to past findings and addressing key issues raised in the most recent review. From 2022-2025, programs receiving Measure 110 funding reported 3 million encounters with people in need of addiction and social support services. , More than 80% of the funded BHRN providers performed outreach at least once per week and approximately 40% of these providers performed outreach five or more times weekly, resulting in thousands of new clients accessing critical BHRN services.

This work is made possible in part by OHA’s substantial process improvements, including:

Leadership and Structure

• Hiring a dedicated Measure 110 Executive Director (October 2024), program manager (February 2025) and additional leadership staff (2025).
• Expanding the M110 program team from three to 18 full-time positions, providing stability and expertise.
• Embedding project management, grant administration and cross-division coordination into daily operations.

Governance and Oversight

• Reorganizing the program to ensure alignment with the OHA Director, Behavioral Health Division Director and Governor’s Office priorities and strategies.
• Successfully completing the 2025 grant process and incorporating lessons learned for the upcoming funding cycle.
• Preparing for the shift of grant-making authority from the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC) to OHA in 2026 under Senate Bill 610 (2025).

Data and Accountability

• Launching enhanced Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) grant reporting in 2025, including client-level reporting.
• Implementing standardized expenditure and staffing reporting to ensure the responsible use of every Measure 110 dollar.
• Utilizing a public facing dashboard to ensure robust data is collected and shared, including plans for additional data reporting for the current grant cycle.

Additionally, while the Audits Division recommends OHA conduct a baseline study to determine the impact of Measure 110 funded services, data limitations and the availability of appropriate data comparisons significantly hinder OHA’s ability to conduct such a study, possibly to the point of rendering it impossible. However, OHA has invested in many data improvements that will allow the agency to report out on BHRN program impact and client outcomes by 2027.

Work to Improve Access to Behavioral Health Services Continues

“We have built a responsive high performing team overseeing M110 implementation to help build a system that is coordinated, evidence-based and responsive,” Clarke said. “OHA is committed to collaborating with partners to ensure we are leading with stability, collaboration and compassion.”

OHA continues to advance the equity goals at the heart of Measure 110 by improving culturally specific services, strengthening funding processes and ensuring that communities disproportionately harmed by past drug policies have access to care.

Substance use disorder is a long-term public health challenge. OHA will continue strengthening Measure 110 implementation and ensuring that public funds are used effectively to support treatment and recovery to reduce harm and save lives across Oregon.

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Portland, OR — December 17, 2025 — Santa Claus is coming to the Oregon Historical Society this weekend! All are welcome to visit Santa from 1pm to 3pm on Sunday, December 21. Visitors of all ages are invited to take their own photos with St. Nick inside the popular Meier & Frank Santaland display, which is on view through December 31. Admission to OHS’s downtown Portland museum is free all day (12pm to 5pm).

Generations of Oregonians have fond memories of the downtown Portland Meier & Frank department store’s Santaland. A ride on the iconic monorail and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap became a Christmas tradition for many families.

Following the closure of Macy’s downtown store (which purchased Meier & Frank in 2005), a small number of items from Santaland were donated to OHS, which have been displayed annually since 2018. Come share in the holiday cheer with a visit to this nostalgic display, featuring Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the beloved monorail. The well-remembered Cinnamon Bear costume from Lipman’s holiday traditions will also be on display. Plus, a new “Easter egg” is added to the display each year; go behind-the-scenes in the making of OHS’s Santaland in this blog post and see if you can spot the new addition when you visit!

The museum galleries will be open from 12pm to 5pm. In addition to Santaland, featured exhibitions include:

• She Flies with Her Own Wings, a look at Oregon’s golden age of aviation in the 1930s that shares how flight reshaped lives and technology.

• June Drake: Preserving the Past to Shape the Future, a retrospective of photographer June D. Drake’s work documenting life in Silverton, Oregon, and surrounding areas and the evolution of rural Oregon over six decades.

• The Yasui Family: An American Story, which shares one Oregon family’s experiences of racism, incarceration, and their unwavering commitment to justice, reflecting broader civil rights struggles in America.

• “We Were All Living a Dream”, a photographic exhibition of Donna Pollach’s intimate portraits of feminist and lesbian communities in 1970s Portland, chronicling their activism, camaraderie, and challenges.
   

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 17, 2025
MEDIA CONTACTS

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Public Information: LCSheriff@co.lincoln.or.us
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management:
  licinfo@oem.oregon.gov">oem_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov. 971-304-3310
• Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries: dogami-info@dogami.oregon.gov

___________________________________________________________________________ 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as landslide hazards increase across western Oregon, particularly in Lincoln County, where a significant landslide event continues to pose serious safety risks.

The landslide, which began on December 12, has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The ground remains highly unstable, and the approaching atmospheric river is expected to worsen conditions. Oregon Department of Transportation geologists and engineers have been conducting aerial assessments using LIDAR and drone technology but have not been able to safely enter the site due to ongoing ground movement.

Public Safety Warning for Lincoln County:

• Stay out of the landslide area, including the slope above and surrounding terrain. The ground is still settling and may shift without warning.
• Do not approach or disturb debris washing ashore along the Siletz River, Siletz Bay, or nearby beaches. It may be unstable and dangerous.
• If you find debris of a personal nature, please contact local law enforcement via non-emergency lines:
  • Lincoln City Police Department: 541-994-3636 
  • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office: 541-265-0777
• Please follow all evacuation alerts (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!) and know your evacuation routes.

Emergency Response Updates:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners.
• Highway 229 is closed between Milepost 14 and 15. No detour is available. Travelers should avoid the area and check TripCheck.com for updates.

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon: 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall in Oregon will be Thursday and Friday, then will shift further south during the weekend. Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and debris flows, especially in steep terrain and areas affected by recent wildfires. 

Debris Flow Safety Tips:

• Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr.
• Listen for unusual sounds like cracking trees or rumbling rocks.
• Watch water sources for sudden changes in flow or color.
• Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised.

Be Prepared: 

Oregon communities can reduce landslide risks through land use planning and hazard mitigation strategies. Property owners in low lying areas in and around the landslide area may wish to consider purchasing flood insurance, as it is not normally a part of standard renters or homeowners insurance. It is important to note flood insurance applies only in limited cases involving certain debris flows. It generally does not cover landslides. 

However, officials do expect the atmospheric river to cause flooding in parts of Oregon, and it is a good time to make sure you have insurance coverage for both flooding and landslides. Contact your insurance agent, or connect with an insurance advocate at the Division for Financial Regulation’s.(DFR) Consumer Hotline 1-888-877-4894 or visit their Disaster Insurance Resources page.

•  Preparing for Landslide Hazards: A Land Use Guide for Oregon Communities
• Quick Reference Sheet
• Homeowners Guide to Landslides for Oregon and Washington
• DOGAMI landslide publications and maps
• Anyone (whether you rent or own) can obtain a National Flood Insurance Program quote
• Contact your local insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov for additional information on flood insurance.

Stay Informed:

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
  • Sign up for Lincoln Alerts to receive emergency notifications: 
  • Receive County Media Releases
  • Facebook Pages: https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/  or www.facebook.com/lcemergencymanagement/
• Sign up for OEM Press Releases or Alerts in your area at ORAlert.gov
• Stay up to date on road conditions by calling 511 or visiting TripCheck.com.
• Visit DOGAMI’s home page and debris flow page for more information.
• Photos and video of the slide can be found on ODOT’s Flickr Album.

PORTLAND, Ore. (December 17, 2025) – As Oregonians head into the winter holidays, early signs point to increasing flu activity while vaccination rates for both flu and COVID-19 are trailing last year. With millions expected to travel and gather indoors over the coming weeks, Kaiser Permanente physicians are urging people to get vaccinated now to protect themselves and their families.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, flu hospitalizations in the Portland area are beginning to rise, with early-season numbers increasing heading into December. At the same time, both flu and COVID-19 vaccination rates are running below last year’s pace. With flu activity historically building through December and January, and national data showing the virus spreading more quickly in parts of the country, public health experts are urging people to get vaccinated now. Flu shots can also help prevent complications such as ear infections in children, making them especially important for families during peak respiratory season.

“We’re seeing flu cases picking up, but there’s still plenty of time to protect yourself,” said Dr. Kathryn Glassberg, family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “The flu vaccine is one of the simplest ways to prevent severe illness, especially for young children, older adults and people with chronic conditions. Tens of thousands of Americans die from influenza every year, and the risks from the vaccine are very, very low. National experts are aligned in recommending that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot each year, including the two-dose series for infants getting vaccinated for the first time.”

As we head into the holidays, a flu shot now gives your body enough time to build protection before going into crowded airports, classrooms or living rooms, and it can help prevent serious illness, especially in kids, older adults, and people with chronic conditions.

Interviews available:

Dr. Kathryn Glassberg, family medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews on Thursday, Dec. 18 from 10 a.m.-noon. en.a.vitt@kp.org" id="OWAa1fbc7a5-1fbc-5e5b-a111-e85f56fd385c" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(5, 99, 193) !important;" title="mailto:karen.a.vitt@kp.org">Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Glassberg is prepared to discuss:

• The current landscape of flu in Oregon and what to watch for in December and January
• Why flu and COVID vaccination rates are declining and how that affects community health
• How flu vaccines reduce complications and severe outcomes (including ear infections in young children)
• What families should know before traveling or gathering for the holidays
• Healthy behaviors to avoid getting sick this season

About Kaiser Permanente
 Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve nearly 12.6 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, please visit: about.kaiserpermanente.org.

The 105-year-old two-story brick building is currently slated for demolition by the Banks School District.

Banks, Oregon – December 17, 2025 – The Banks Historical Society today announced that a year-long application process for the nomination of the historic Banks Union High School building to the National Register of Historic Places has been accepted for review by the Oregon State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP). The review is scheduled for Thursday, February 19, 2026 at approximately 11:15AM Pacific Time. Public comments are now open – email to SHPO.NationalRegisterProgram@oprd.oregon.gov">ORSHPO.NationalRegisterProgram@oprd.oregon.gov with your comments or to request information to speak at the meeting.

“Acceptance for review by SACHP is the first step to official National Register designation,” said Laurelen Jabbour, president of the Banks Historical Society. “This indicates the significance of this building to our state’s cultural heritage, and it re-asserts the importance of considering the building’s historic status before permitting it to be demolished.”

A private citizen’s group began efforts to save the building in November 2024 and in June 2025 the Banks Historical Society launched a Save the Historic Banks Union High School campaign. Their aim has been to preserve the 105-year-old building – the first Union High School in Washington County and the only remaining original historic brick structure in the city of Banks.

The building is slated to be demolished soon to change the footprint of a new high school campus, however construction of a new school does not absolutely require demolition of the historic building, which could be upgraded for non-school use as administrative or commercial offices.

Separate from the Banks Historical Society’s efforts with SACHP, the private citizen’s group has now launched an effort to put the demolition of the school on the ballot for a district-wide vote. More information on that effort and where to sign the petition can be found HERE.

To learn more, get involved in the National Register effort or to make a tax-deductible contribution toward preservation efforts, please visit bankshistory.org. For more information on the project and ongoing updates, visit the Banks Historical Society Facebook page.

About the Banks Historical Society

The mission of the Banks Historical Society is to preserve, protect, and promote the history and heritage of Banks, Oregon – and all municipalities and rural areas within the Banks School District – through educational programs, exhibitions, community engagement and recognition of local, state and national historic landmarks and resources in the service area. The all-volunteer Banks Historical Society is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, and historical purposes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

PRESS RELEASE

A25-29565 HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

DECEMBER 17, 2025

At 1853 hours of December 16, 2025, Cowlitz 911 received a report of suspicious circumstances in the 3600 block of Old Lewis River Rd, Woodland.  The reporting party stated they had just spoken with a family member, identified as Ricky Dean Miller, age 67, who reportedly said he had killed someone.  Miller resides at the Old Lewis River Rd address and reportedly told the reporting party that the victim’s body was hidden on his property.

Deputies with the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and contacted Miller.  Detectives obtained a search warrant for Miller’s property and located a deceased male subject, who was known to Miller, hidden on Miller’s property. 

Ricky Miller was booked into Cowlitz County Jail on charges of Murder 2^nd Degree and Unlawful Disposal of Human Remains.  The identity of the victim will not be released at this time as the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office is still attempting to contact their next of kin. 

This is an active investigation – no further details are available for release at this time.  The Sheriff’s Office requests anyone with information about this case to contact Detective James Hanberry at 360-577-3092.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

Case: 20CR55526                                                                      December 17, 2025                                    

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Marshall, on December 16, 2025 sentenced Abdikadir Mohamed Osman to 12 years in prison for shooting and killing one man and threatening his brother with the gun.

Following a 6-day trial, the jury convicted Osman on the charge of Manslaughter in the Second Degree with a Firearm, Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm, and Menacing.  In addition, the court convicted Osman of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Multnomah County Chief Deputy District Attorney Todd Jackson and Senior Deputy District Attorney Brian Davidson prosecuted the case.  After the sentencing, Chief Deputy District Attorney Todd Jackson said: 

“This was a senseless act of violence that resulted in the death of Shawn Fujioka.  I hope this outcome will bring some peace and closure to his family.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Travis Law and the Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Detail for their thorough investigation on this case. 

MCDA would also like to recognize the care and compassion shown to the victims by MCDA Victim Advocate Souk Kanhalikham.

THE FACTS:

On October 6, 2020, Shawn Fujioka and his brother drove from their home in Carrolls, Washington to Portland. They came to the city as a belated birthday celebration and shopping trip. The brothers paid for a hotel room that night. Someone they hoped to sell a jacket to came over to the room and also invited many others to join in the party. At one point, the victim and the man he planned to sell the coat to began to fight. It stopped but then began again, which brought the other man’s friend, the defendant over to intervene. He pulled a gun and when challenged by the victim, shot the victim in the chest. He then pointed the firearm at the victim’s brother threatening to shoot him as well.  The defendant fled the scene following the shooting.

                                                     ###MCDA###

 The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) Education Foundation (“Foundation”) presented Roger Busse with the 2025 Financial Education Champion Award during a banking industry event held on Dec. 11 in Portland. Presented every other year, this award honors an individual or organization whose commitment to financial education is strengthening Oregon’s future. Busse’s impact stands out as truly exceptional.

Roger Busse currently serves as the James F. and Shirley J. Rippey Professor of Practice at the University of Oregon’s (UO) Lundquist College of Business—a role he embraced after completing a distinguished 47-year banking career. His industry leadership included serving as president and CEO of Pacific Continental Bank, and in recognition of his contributions to the banking sector and his community, he was inducted into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame in 2018. In addition to his work in education, Busse serves on the board of directors of Citizens Bank in Corvallis, further demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the banking profession.

Since transitioning into education, Busse has devoted his second act to preparing the next generation of bankers. Over the past five years, he has taught more than 1,195 students through the Foundation-supported commercial banking program at the University of Oregon. Demand for his course has surged, with the university now offering two full sections every term and a waitlist exceeding 40 students this fall alone.

His classroom has become one of the most effective banking talent pipelines in the state. More than 28% of his students—over 335 graduates—have gone on to careers in banking, one of the highest career-placement outcomes of any individual course of any size at any university. This level of impact has made Busse’s program one of Oregon’s most reliable sources of emerging bank talent.

Busse’s success stems from intentional collaboration with Oregon banks, ensuring students learn practical, real-world banking skills that translate directly to the workplace. His passion for mentorship has led many students to cite his course as the moment they discovered a calling to the profession. In 2023, his commitment to teaching excellence was recognized with the University of Oregon’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award.

Beyond his work at UO, Busse also extends his expertise to students at Oregon State University and George Fox University, broadening the reach of quality banking education across the state.

“Roger exemplifies everything the Financial Education Champion Award represents,” said OBA President and CEO Scott Bruun. “His generosity, expertise, and deep belief in banking as a community-serving profession are shaping stronger students, stronger communities, and a stronger future for Oregon banking.”

The OBA Education Foundation congratulates Roger Busse on this well-deserved honor.

HIGHWAY 229 LANDSLIDE UPDATE – 03
 

The landslide is still settling and has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The impacted area remains in a LEVEL THREE – GO NOW evacuation order. Due to the dangerous nature of the situation and unstable ground, community members are asked to stay out of the impacted area. Accessing these areas put yourself and first responders at risk. Heavy rains are expected to worsen conditions and carry additional risk.

Local and state partners are monitoring the slide and are making plans for emergency response as the situation develops. Experts are not able to fully assess the full impact of this landslide until it has settled and is stable.
 

Debris from the landslide has entered the Siletz River and is washing up along the riverbanks, Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members should use caution if they choose to climb on, move, or disturb debris. It may be unstable or hazardous. With the loss of two homes, personal items may also begin to appear. Sheriff Shanks commented “Our community members are eager to help comfort those that have lost their homes and are motivated to clean up some of the debris.” During this period of uncertainty with the landslide and expected weather, it is crucial community members remain safe. “We share empathy for those affected and ask that any found personal items or items of value be reported to local law enforcement so we can work on returning meaningful possessions to our community members.” Sheriff Shanks said.

If you discover items with personal identification or items that appear to be personal belongings, please report them to local law enforcement through the non-emergency line:

• Lincoln City Police Department non-emergency: 541-994-3636
• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency: 541-265-0777

There currently no threats to Public Drinking Water Systems positioned downstream from the slide on Hwy 229. Oregon Drinking Water Services through Oregon Health Authority (OHA) continues to monitor the public drinking water system for safety. If your domestic well may have been compromised or you are unsure of your water quality follow these steps from OHA: www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/drinkingwater/operations/pages/shockchlorination.aspx
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s EOC remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners on the developing situation. Updates will be provided as they become available.
 

Additional Information on the Landslide or to Inform Your Safety and Travel Plans:

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
  • Sign up for Lincoln Alerts to receive direct updates: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
  • Media Releases: flashalert.net/id/LCSO
  • Facebook Pages:  https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/ or www.facebook.com/lcemergencymanagement/
• Monitor weather conditions at weather.org
• Follow updates from ODOT:
  • ODOT News Releases: www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx
  • ODOT Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/OregonDOT

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Vancouver, Wash. Clark County Public Works is seeking applicants for multiple open volunteer park host positions. Park hosts live at a county park and perform basic maintenance, operations and security duties. Public Works is currently seeking applicants for:

• A year-round position at Klineline Pond at Salmon Creek Regional Park
  • The host at this location must live in the county-owned residence
  • This host’s duties also include the softball fields area of the park
• A year-round position serving Prairie Fields and Curtin Creek Community Park
  • The host in this position must live in the county-owned residence at Prairie Fields
  • This host’s duties also include the new Curtin Creek Community Park; the host will be reimbursed mileage for use of their personal vehicle to travel between the two park locations
• A seasonal (March through September) position at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park
  • The host in this position must provide their own recreational vehicle to reside in
  • This host’s duties also include Vancouver Lake Regional Park; the host will be reimbursed mileage for use of their personal vehicle to travel between the two park locations

All hosts, whether residing in a county-owned residence or their own recreational vehicle on an RV pad in the park, are provided with basic utilities: water, sewer, electricity, garbage/recycling.

Volunteer park hosts live at their assigned park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Host duties include (but are not limited to): 

• Cleaning park restrooms daily and as needed in response to messes
• Opening park gates by 7 a.m. and closing gates at dusk (one half-hour after sunset) daily
• Notifying park users when the park is closing
• Emptying park garbage cans at least once daily, and as needed
• Picking up litter daily
• Notifying staff of emergencies, urgent maintenance needs or impacts of severe weather
• Helping to identify and respond to safety and security concerns in the park
   

A host may be offered a term for the next calendar year based on results of a performance evaluation performed in the late summer or early fall. 

Applicants offered positions must submit to state and federal background checks and fingerprinting, provide a rental history and proof of renter’s insurance that meets program requirements. Hosts required to drive their personal vehicles to perform duties at another park site must also provide proof of automobile insurance. The program includes requirements regarding pets, guests, absences, etc. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to read the park host policies and procedures, posted on the volunteer program webpage, before applying.

More information about these positions, the volunteer park host program policies, requirements, minimum qualifications, duties, and more can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#volunteer-park-host.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#volunteer-park-host. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Paper applications, translated application materials, interpretation services, and other accommodations are available upon request to Cindy Gonzalez, volunteer program coordinator, at cindy.gonzalez@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.1679.

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

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

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

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

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

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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Today, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received information from the Beaverton Police Department that officers located 58-year-old Kellie Fuller.

Fuller was found while riding TriMet.

Fuller did not appear to be injured but agreed to a medical evaluation at a local hospital.

No further information is being released.

MCSO would like to thank community members and specifically the Beaverton Police Department for their assistance.

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----ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW-----

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 58-year-old Kellie Fuller who is diagnosed with dementia and is unable to care for herself.  Ms. Fuller was last seen around 2:00pm on December 13, 2025 in the parking lot of the Troutdale Safeway, located at 25691 SE Stark St.  At the time of her disappearance, Ms. Fuller was wearing a black jacket, black polo shirt, blue jeans and bright purple Adidas shoes.  Ms. Fuller is a white female, 4’11” tall, weighs 120 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes.

If you see Ms. Fuller, please call 911 immediately.  If you have other information regarding Ms. Fuller’s whereabouts, please call the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office at 503-988-7300 and reference case 25-49169.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE CORRECTION BELOW

Christmas Ships Parade Enters Final Week with 6 Nights of Holiday Magic Remaining

71st Annual Parade Continues Through December 21 on Pacific Northwest Waters

Portland, OR – December 16, 2025 – The Christmas Ships Parade, the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States, enters its final week tonight with six spectacular nights remaining in its 71st season. Over 70 beautifully decorated and illuminated boats continue their journey along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, offering free viewing opportunities for families throughout the Portland metro area.

"We're so excited to share these final six magical nights with our community," said Kelly Marks, Christmas Ships Parade representative. "Whether you've been coming for decades or this is your first time, we can't wait to see you along the shore. There's truly nothing like experiencing these twinkling boats together under the winter sky—these shared experiences, it's what the holiday season is all about."

"The love and energy we feel from everyone watching makes all the hard work worthwhile," said Kat Pettersen, Christmas Ships President. "When we see families bundled up on the docks, hear the kids shouting with excitement, and watch people waving from the shore—that connection is pure magic. We're so grateful to everyone who comes out to celebrate this tradition with us."

REMAINING PARADE NIGHTS: December 16-21

The parade continues visiting multiple locations including North Portland Harbor, the Vancouver Waterfront, Lake Oswego, and areas along both the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Weeknight parades launch from Riverplace Marina on the Willamette and the M James Gleason Boat Ramp on the Columbia.

View the complete schedule with viewing location suggestions at www.christmasships.org/parade-schedule.

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES THIS WEEK

Meet & Greet Open Houses at Riverplace Public Docks:

• SATURDAY, December 20: 8:00-10:00 PM
• SUNDAY, December 21: 2:00-4:30 PM (Final day of season)

Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the annual toy drive benefiting children in need.

ABOUT THE CHRISTMAS SHIPS PARADE

The Christmas Ships Parade is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States. Designated as an Oregon Heritage Tradition (one of only 28 in the state), the parade has been brightening Pacific Northwest waters since 1954.

Notable Facts:

• Travels approximately 345 nautical miles during a typical season
• Passes by more than 80 miles of shoreline each year
• Features boats ranging from 14 to 65 feet, including motor and sail boats
• All participants are volunteers who design and fabricate their own unique displays
• Partners annually with Columbia River Fire & Rescue and Portland Fire Toy and Joy Makers for toy collection

The Christmas Ships Parade is an independent nonprofit organization, not subsidized by or affiliated with any city, county, or municipal entity. All Christmas Shippers are volunteers who receive no reimbursement and pay for their own expenses.

VIEWING INFORMATION

Admission is FREE. The parade is visible from numerous shoreline locations along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Many restaurants, hotels, and businesses offer excellent indoor viewing opportunities. Complete route details and viewing location suggestions are available at www.christmasships.org.

Note: The Christmas Ships Parade does not offer rides on participating boats.

SUPPORT THE TRADITION

As a volunteer-run nonprofit, the Christmas Ships Parade relies on community support to offset operational expenses. Donations can be made at www.christmasships.org.

PRESENTING SPONSORS: Boreas Group, Portland Spirit, RiverPlace Marina

PREMIER SPONSORS: Pacific Lifestyle Homes, Fidelity Investments

SUPPORTING SPONSORS: Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront, The Cove, Fred's Marina, Boat Insurance Agency, Dr. Jared Bowyer, Hotel Indigo, Residence Inn Downtown/RiverPlace, Salty's on the Columbia, Island Style Charters, The Old Spaghetti Factory, Portland River Tours, Scovare Expeditions, Stevens Water Monitoring Systems, The Electric Boat Company, The Courtney Irvin Foundation

SOCIAL MEDIA:
Twitter: @ChristmasShips
Facebook: christmasship.parade
Instagram: christmasships

ABOUT CHRISTMAS SHIPS, INC.
Christmas Ships, Inc. is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit comprised of dedicated individuals who value the uniqueness inherent to humanity. The organization is committed to bringing festive joy to the Pacific Northwest community during the holiday season.

GRESHAM, Ore.— Today, Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall issued a personal, heartfelt message to the community in response to feedback and concerns related to federal immigration enforcement.

“Working alongside my colleagues on City Council, we have taken steps to bring clarity at the local level while continuing to call for real action from the state and federal government,” Stovall says in the statement. “Broad, indiscriminate actions from far away do not make communities safer. Too often, they create confusion, fear, and harm for people who are simply trying to live their lives, work hard, and care for their families.”

Mayor Stovall’s message underscores Gresham City Council’s commitment to identifying and moving forward with helpful local action while encouraging federal leaders to enact meaningful immigration reform.

You can read Mayor Stovall’s full statement at GreshamOregon.gov/news.

#     #     #

About Gresham:  

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

For video of woodstoves in use and battery-backed -up carbon monoxide alarms, click here.

December 16, 2025

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

Oregon Health Authority urges caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning during winter months

Salem, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Oregon Hazards Lab at the University of Oregon (OHAZ) have entered a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formally establishes a statewide collaboration to improve early detection, monitoring, and response to natural hazards across Oregon.

The agreement aligns operations, research, and practices between the two organizations, supporting shared goals of reducing risk, protecting communities, and building a more resilient future for the state. The agreement also represents a direct outcome of the Oregon Wildfire Detection Camera Interoperability Committee that serves Oregon by coordinating a broad consortium of fire agencies, first responders, utility companies, and technology operators.

Under the MOU, ODF and OHAZ will coordinate efforts on legislative strategy and funding pursuits, expand access to emerging tools and scientific expertise, and develop collaborative pilot projects. The partnership emphasizes interoperability, training, exchange of data and best practices.

“This collaboration advances Oregon’s ability to respond to wildfire, seismic threats, floods, and other natural hazards with the best tools and information available,” said Leland O’Driscoll, the Director of OHAZ. “By partnering with ODF, we can strengthen statewide systems that protect lives, property, and natural resources.”

The partnership reflects a broader vision: that clear, coordinated arrangements among Oregon’s public agencies and research institutions enhance transparency, accountability, and reliability during critical events. By integrating scientific innovation with on-the-ground operational expertise, ODF and OHAZ aim to improve hazard monitoring and early detection statewide.

“Oregonians benefit when universities, government agencies, and public partners work from a shared understanding and aligned goals,” said Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief. “This agreement enables meaningful collaboration—from research to real-time operations—to help communities prepare for and respond to hazards more effectively.”

As Oregon continues to face increasing risks from wildfire, extreme weather, and geological hazards, this collaboration will help advance proactive strategies and better equip the state with timely, actionable information.

12/16/2025 2:00 PM

Lieutenant Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6556 / cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

Police Activity in the 800-Block of NW 23^rd St

Corvallis, OR - At approximately 8:30 a.m. today, Corvallis Police Department officers, along with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office entry team, were in the 800-block of NW 23rd Street attempting to serve a search warrant related to a stolen firearm.

During the execution of the warrant, the situation escalated into a barricaded, armed subject situation. Out of caution, nearby residents were evacuated, and law enforcement established a safety perimeter.

For the protection of the community and first responders at the scene, the Linn County Regional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team was requested to assist.

At 12:15 p.m. the situation was resolved. No ongoing threat to the community exists currently.

Investigators from the Corvallis Police Department will remain in the area to conduct follow-up investigation.

Additional information will be released when it becomes available and appropriate.

The future Bull Run filtration facility will eliminate one annual tradition for Portlanders: a harmless seasonal change in the appearance of our drinking water.

As fall rains return and refill the Bull Run reservoirs, some Portlanders are seeing a slight color change in their drinking water. This is a normal occurrence and doesn’t affect the safety of our drinking water. Heavy rains wash organic material like leaves into the streams and reservoirs in the Bull Run Watershed. This can cause a slight tea-like tint in tap water and stain water filters in homes and businesses.

One of the many whys behind filtration

Avoiding seasonal discoloration in our drinking water is just one of filtration’s many benefits. By building a new, seismically resilient filtration facility, we are making an  important investment in improved water quality. The new Bull Run filtration facility will help us treat for Cryptosporidium, storm-related turbidity, emerging climate-related risks, and, yes, the organic material that causes discolored water.

“Filtration will give us a powerful tool for addressing current and emerging risks to our drinking water system. It is a generational investment in the safety and reliability of Portland’s water,” said Water Bureau Operations Director Kimberly Gupta.

If you have discolored water that is not a yellow tint, please report it to the Water Quality Line. Water that is brown or darker than a tint—more like coffee than tea in color—may be caused by something else happening in your neighborhood.

Quicker recovery

The new filtration facility will remove sediment from our water and allow us to safely serve Bull Run water after a fire or extreme weather event. Heavy rains can wash dirt, bits of plants, ash, and other organic material into our streams and reservoirs. This can be more pronounced following a wildfire. The Bull Run is currently unfiltered. Right now, if large amounts of dirt or organic material enter our supply, we can’t safely serve the water.

Once the filtration facility is up and running, our upgraded multistep treatment process will help address turbidity (sediment suspended in water) and other potential impacts to our water supply that can result from a fire, a landslide, volcanic activity, or a large storm.

Filtration will not only provide stronger supply resilience—it will also help Portland comply with federal and state safe drinking water regulations today and in the future. The Water Bureau is required to build the filtration facility to remove the microorganism Cryptosporidium from our water.

The Water Bureau is working under a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority to have the new facility in operation by September 2027.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of 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.

Access and accommodations

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

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is launching the OEM Grants platform on December 16, 2025. This new, statewide system is designed to simplify how organizations approved for grants manage and track Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) funding after disasters. The platform will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in Oregon’s long-term recovery efforts.

Under the new process, subapplicants will continue to use FEMA’s Public Assistance Grants Portal (GP) to apply for funding, upload required documentation for project development, and work through eligibility and requirements with FEMA. Once FEMA approves a project, management will transition to the OEM Grants platform.

Within the new system, grant recipients will be able to:

• Manage projects from grant award through closeout
• Submit and track reimbursement requests
• Track and report grant finances
• Communicate and collaborate directly with OEM staff

“Oregon communities depend on timely and transparent access to disaster recovery funding, and this new platform helps ensure we can meet that responsibility,” Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, said. “By modernizing how we manage Public Assistance grants, we are strengthening our partnerships with certain nonprofits, as well as local and Tribal governments. We are also improving how we support communities throughout their recovery.”

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters regardless of cause. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

December 16, 2025

Media Inquiries: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov  

Oregon reduces barriers to birth control for Medicaid members

Oregon Health Plan members will be able to obtain birth control and emergency contraception without a prescription and at no cost starting Dec. 16

SALEM, Ore. – Starting today, Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid) members will be able to get over-the-counter birth control pills, including Opill, and emergency contraception at no cost at pharmacies in the state. Oregon Health Authority (OHA), in collaboration with the Oregon Board of Pharmacy, made this possible through a standing order, which allows pharmacists to provide these medications to OHP members and bill OHP.

“Access to reproductive health care should not depend on how much money you make or what kind of insurance you have,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This step ensures that Oregon Health Plan families can get timely, affordable birth control. I will keep working to make sure every Oregonian can access the care they need to make the decisions that are right for them.”

In Oregon, these medications are already covered without a prescription for people with private insurance. Federal law, however, requires that all medications for Medicaid enrollees be prescribed by a licensed practitioner who is enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program. Oregon’s new standing order means that OHP members will no longer have to get a prescription to access these contraceptives at no cost.

“This change removes a real and unnecessary barrier to care,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “By allowing Oregon Health Plan members to get safe, effective contraception directly from pharmacies – without a prescription and at no cost to themselves – we are closing a longstanding gap between private insurance and Medicaid and ensuring all people in Oregon have greater control over their own reproductive health.”

Over-the-counter emergency contraception has been widely available for several years, and the FDA approved Opill as the first birth control pill for over-the-counter use in 2023. Previously, however, OHP members were required to pay out of pocket or else seek out a doctor’s appointment for a prescription to get these medicines covered.

Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act (RHEA) requires that many health plans offered in Oregon, including all plans offered through the Marketplace, cover over-the-counter contraceptives at no cost. Some private insurance plans that are not subject to Oregon insurance laws may not include this coverage, so people with private insurance should contact their insurance company for more information about their coverage. Additional information can be found on the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) web page.  

How OHP members can get access:

• OHP members can go to their approved pharmacy and request emergency contraception or Opill, and for it to be covered by OHP.
• Most OHP members get their benefits through a local Coordinated Care Organization (CCO); OHP members can call their CCO and ask which pharmacy to go to.
• OHP members not in a CCO (known as OHP Open Card), or who do not know which CCO they’re in, can call OHP Client Services for help at 800-273-0557. 
• OHP members will need to provide their OHP ID number, which is on their OHP ID card or CCO ID card, or by providing personal information that enables the pharmacy staff to search for and confirm enrollment in OHP. 

Additional information is available on the OHP member webpage.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — For the ninth year, members of the Northwest Attractions Alliance (formerly the Portland Attractions Marketing Alliance or PAMA) will offer reciprocal admission benefits to its members. The program was created as a way to show appreciation for each attraction’s loyal members as well as highlight the important role that cultural organizations play in their communities. The program has grown from 12 participating attractions to now include 29 regional attractions throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

From January through December 2026, membership to one of the participating organizations is the key to free admission for a member and three guests of any age to different featured attractions each month.

Memberships provide critical funding that allows each participating organization to further its mission. Join one (or more!) of the participating organizations to show your support for these immersive educational institutions. Or, purchase a gift membership as the perfect holiday gift!

Mark your calendar for the 2026 reciprocal admission schedule. Offer applies to all membership levels. Valid proof of membership and photo ID required. 

2026 Reciprocal Admission Schedule

January

Albany Regional Museum
Oregon Zoo

February

Clark County Historical Museum

Columbia River Maritime Museum
Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Leach Botanical Garden

March

Cannon Beach History Center
Cascade Locks Historical Museum
Pittock Mansion

April

Deepwood Museum & Gardens
Willamette Heritage Center

May

Architectural Heritage Center
Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education
Two Rivers Heritage Museum

June

Museum at Warm Springs
Shelton McMurphy Johnson House

July

Benton County Historical Society
Hallie Ford Museum of Art

August

Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum
Oregon Historical Society
Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

September

Portland Chinatown Museum

Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals
The MAiZE at The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island

Purchasers of MAiZE tickets in September 2026 will have access to the reciprocal membership program through August 2027; please save receipt as proof of purchase to access participating attractions.

October

Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
World Forestry Center

November 

Oregon Coast Aquarium
Seaside Museum & Historical Society

December

Clark County Historical Museum
Lan Su Chinese Garden

Download press images of participating attractions here. 

About the Northwest Attractions Alliance 

The Northwest Attractions Alliance (NWAA) is a professional organization representing major attractions throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. The group connects regularly to explore partnership opportunities and collaborates with regional destination marketing organizations. Many members of NWAA also participate in the annual reciprocal membership program, which offers free admission for a member and three guests of any age to different featured attractions each month.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The VA Portland Health Care System (VAPORHCS) has earned its fifth Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the highest national recognition for nursing excellence and quality patient care. Magnet recognition distinguishes health care organizations that meet rigorous, evidence-based standards for nursing leadership, shared governance, and superior outcomes.

A virtual site visit was conducted September 15–17, 2025, by ANCC appraisers who evaluated nursing practice, staff engagement, and organizational performance. This is the fifth consecutive year VA Portland has had the opportunity to showcase its nursing excellence during the Magnet evaluation process. VAPORHCS was first designated in 2006.

According to the ANCC, the Magnet Recognition Program is the highest credential a health care organization can achieve. Magnet designation indicates that an organization meets the most stringent standards for nursing excellence and patient care quality. VA Portland previously earned Magnet recognition in 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2020.

As part of the appraisal process, an open session was held with VA Portland employees in mid-September to allow staff to share insights about the facility’s nursing practice and professional environment.

“The Magnet designation for VA Portland Health Care System is a testament to the professionalism and expertise our nursing staff brings to our health care teams throughout our organization,” said VA Portland Health Care System Director Karla Azcuy. “This recognition acknowledges our strong nursing practices and reflects the passion our nursing staff have in providing care to our Veteran community.”

Magnet recognition is an international benchmark for health care organizations committed to delivering exceptional patient care. The program supports nursing leaders as they align strategic goals to improve outcomes, advance professional development, and strengthen collaboration at the bedside. For nurses, Magnet status fosters growth and autonomy. For patients, it represents the highest standard of care delivered by nurses who are supported to perform at their best.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College faculty and students continue to gain national visibility.

This year, instructor Betsy Brandenburg was named a 2025 Innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News, while three PCC-educated designers from the interior and architectural design programs, Allison Hedrick, Bethany Broussard, and Emma K. Winn, also earned prestigious honors from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) as young professional leaders. Hedrick won first place in the NKBA Student Design Competition Kitchen Design category, and Broussard and Winn were named NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 Class of 2025.

Last March, an interior design instructor was awarded the inaugural 2025 NKBA/KBIS Educator of the Year award.

Brandenburg joined PCC’s Interior Design Program in 2023 and has a bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. She brings 30 years design experience from running her own design studio in Portland to her early career in San Francisco as a designer specializing in high-end hotels. The instructor is known for her practical, industry-aligned approach to teaching. 

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a KBDN Innovator,” Brandenburg said. “I want designers to know it doesn’t have to be so hard to deliver projects on time and on budget without losing your mind. This recognition reinforces that it’s a message designers want and need right now.”

In class, she introduces students to the “Design Roadmap System” that she created and they work on practicing project management in real time. By tracking their time and planning their schoolwork using the system all semester long, they learn how to manage a busy workload without the stress.

She said PCC excels at preparing students for real-world practice by connecting coursework directly with industry expectations.

“The curriculum isn’t just academic; it’s rooted in what designers actually need to know,” she said. “This business is also all about who you know, and PCC does a great job helping students build those relationships.”

Faculty regularly join students at industry events, introduce them to working professionals and incorporate hands-on career skills into the classroom. Brandenburg said her students’ enthusiasm strengthens her commitment to the program.

“Their energy is infectious,” Brandenburg said. “They remind me what an honor it is to make a living in this field. I'm so incredibly honored to be able to teach at PCC. The energy and talent is really remarkable.”

For more details on PCC's Interior Design Program, 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.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) proudly announces the induction of Mark Stevenson into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional career in banking, deep community involvement, and unwavering commitment to advancing Oregon’s financial and nonprofit sectors. Induction into the Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed peer-to-peer in the banking industry and honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Oregon banking industry, their communities, and the association.

Mark Stevenson has worked in the Portland banking industry for more than two decades, building a distinguished career marked by leadership, innovation, and community service. He served as president and CEO of Capital Pacific Bank for 10 years before its merger with Pacific Continental Bank. Following the merger, Stevenson continued as executive vice president and chief nonprofit and sustainability officer at Pacific Continental Bank until its acquisition by Columbia Bank. In 2021, he was named CFO of the Year by the Portland Business Journal, highlighting his expertise in financial management and strategic leadership.

After his banking career, Stevenson devoted nearly a decade to Craft3, a nonprofit community development organization, serving as board member, chief financial officer, and new market tax credit director. In these roles, he provided innovative financial leadership, stepped into critical responsibilities as needed, and offered steadfast encouragement and mentorship to colleagues, helping the organization advance its mission across Oregon.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stevenson has been deeply engaged with the OBA, including serving as board chair, and has made a lasting impact on communities throughout Oregon. He has generously given his time, expertise, and resources to numerous nonprofit organizations, demonstrating a personal and professional commitment to civic service. Colleagues and peers describe him as a “genuine, accomplished, and proud banker” whose mentorship and leadership have inspired countless others.

"Mark Stevenson’s career reflects the very best of Oregon banking, combining leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to community,” said OBA President and CEO Scott Bruun. “From his decades of service in the industry to his work supporting nonprofits across the state, Mark has made a lasting impact. We are proud to honor him with induction into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame."

The Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame selection committee unanimously chose Mark Stevenson for this honor, citing his lifelong dedication to banking, innovative contributions to the industry, and enduring community impact.

The Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame is reserved for individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped Oregon’s banking industry, the OBA, and the communities in which they live and work. Mark Stevenson joins a distinguished group of 85 banking leaders inducted into the Hall of Fame since its inception in 1987.

Be alert for landslides and debris flows across Northwest Oregon

Portland, OR—The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Northwest Oregon from late Wednesday night (12/17/2025) through late Friday night (12/19/2025). Heavy rainfall from a forecasted atmospheric river event may result in landslides and debris flows in areas of steep terrain, as well as debris flows in and near burned areas from recent wildfires. The watch area includes all of Northwest Oregon.

Find the latest information here: https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=pqr&wwa=all

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk.

If your home, work, or travel route is in a watch area:

• Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio, or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.
• Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.
• Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

For more landslide and debris flow information: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/landslide/Pages/debrisflow.aspx

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Vancouver, Wash. - The U.S. Treasury Department has ceased minting new pennies for circulation, creating a new challenge for public offices and other organizations that accept cash payments and must provide exact change. The Clark County Treasurer’s Office is responding proactively to ensure continued service to customers while minimizing disruption.

The Treasurer’s Office has confirmed with its primary banking partner, JPMorgan Chase, that a nationwide penny shortage is affecting the bank’s ability to fulfill coin orders at this time.

“While pennies may seem insignificant, the inability to reliably obtain them has real operational impacts for public offices that accept cash,” said Alishia Topper, Clark County Treasurer. “Our responsibility is to manage public funds carefully, communicate clearly with the public, and avoid unnecessary administrative costs or burdens on customers.”

Until additional federal or state guidance, or legislative action, addresses the issue, taxpayers who make cash payments are encouraged to pay with exact change.

In addition to the impact on the Treasurer’s Office, the penny shortage will eventually impact all government organizations that accept cash. Treasurer Topper is recommending two potential approaches:

Request exact change
Requesting exact change for cash transactions is the simplest option, particularly when prices are fixed by statute or external agreement. Organizations choosing this approach should clearly post signage informing customers of the policy. The Treasurer’s Office will adopt this policy and began displaying signage on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.

Round total charges down to the nearest $0.05
For fees established in county code or organizational policy and where no revenue-sharing partners are involved, rounding total charges down to the nearest five cents may be an option. Taxes, including sales tax, must still be remitted to the State of Washington based on the pre-rounded amount. While federal guidance allows rounding up if properly disclosed, doing so can complicate tax and revenue-sharing calculations and impose unnecessary costs on customers. For these reasons, rounding up is not advised. Organizations should consult legal counsel and relevant state partners before implementing any rounding policy.

The Treasurer’s Office also advises against stockpiling pennies. Handling and storing large quantities of coin increases administrative burden and the risk of loss. Any losses, regardless of amount, must be reported to the Washington State Auditor.

“Stockpiling low-value coin creates avoidable risk and administrative overhead,” Treasurer Topper added. “When practical alternatives exist, it is not a responsible use of public resources.”

The Treasurer’s Office will continue to monitor developments and share updates as additional information or guidance becomes available.

For questions or to discuss these options further, please contact the Clark County Treasurer’s Office at 564.397.2255.

This morning, our fire personnel were joined by Forest Grove Mayor Malynda Wenzel, Forest Grove Rural Fire Board Members as well as other city leaders in a brief ribbon cutting ceremony to bring our newest Pierce Quantum fire engine into service.

This new engine, which is jointly purchased by the City of Forest Grove and the Forest Grove Rural Fire Protection District will now be serving the citizens of Western Washington County for the next 20 years (or more). The engine is laid out very similarly to its 5 year old sibling with some added features. One major new feature is the addition of a gantry for our hard suction hose, allowing firefighters to safely remove the large drafting hoses for rural fire operations. The engine fully equipped is a huge investment for the community, costing approximately one million dollars.

Another special note about this unit, is the Pierce Mfg Quantum cab is being discontinued and our engine is rumored to be the last vehicle built with the Quantum cab.
 

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On Friday, December 12, 2025, detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office partnered with local businesses to combat organized retail theft in Cornelius.

During the mission, detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and uniformed patrol deputies collaborated with asset protection staff to identify individuals engaging in thefts at Coastal Farm & Ranch, Fred Meyer, and Walmart stores within the city of Cornelius, Washington County. Ten individuals were taken into custody for theft and trespassing, including one arrest for possession of methamphetamine. Detectives recovered hundreds of dollars’ worth of merchandise from those arrested.

This mission was funded by a grant obtained by the Washington County District Attorney’s Office from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will continue to collaborate with retail and law enforcement partners on additional initiatives to combat organized retail theft and shoplifting in Washington County.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Library will increase its hours of operation beginning Jan. 2, 2026. The new hours will be 9 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. The Law Library previously closed at 2 pm.

The Law Library is located on the first floor of the Clark County Courthouse at 1200 Franklin St. in downtown Vancouver. The Law Library provides a professional legal collection for judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and county and state officials. The collection is available to the public any time the library is open.

A law librarian is available during the library’s open hours to help people find materials and resources.

Learn more about the Clark County Law Library including its extensive online catalog and self-help form kits at https://clark.wa.gov/law-library.

Marion County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 99E, at the intersection with Quinaby Road NE, in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Dodge Charger, operated by Juan Santiago Sandoval (30) of Woodburn, was stopped on Quinaby Road NE at the intersection Highway 99E when it turned northbound onto the highway. The Dodge entered the path of a southbound Yamaha XJ650 motorcycle, operated by Xander Ashton Colter (22) of Kiezer, causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Yamaha (Colter) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) and passenger, Ricardo Alvarez Acosta (27) of Woodburn, were reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. Impairment is considered a primary contributor to the crash. The investigation is on-going.

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Salem Fire Department, and ODOT.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 Contact: Scott Simms, ssimms@ppcpdx.org / 503-595-9770

December 15, 2025

Plaintiffs in federal litigation seek actions that would hobble clean hydropower, drive up electricity costs by $152-$169 million annually, increase the risk of blackouts, and add more harmful carbon emissions – all without proven benefits to fish

PORTLAND, OR — The Public Power Council (PPC), representing nearly 100 consumer-owned electric utilities across the Pacific Northwest, today filed its opposition to the motions for a preliminary injunction in long-running federal litigation over operations of the Columbia River System. PPC has been involved in this case since it was initiated almost 25 years ago, when PPC responded to the original Complaint.

PPC’s filing warns that the relief sought by plaintiffs – expanded spill requirements and tighter minimum operating pool limits at eight lower Columbia and lower Snake River dams – would significantly reduce the region’s most flexible carbon-free electricity resource, impose substantial replacement power and capacity costs on consumers, and increase blackout risk during summer heat and other emergency conditions, all without a quantified showing that the requested operations would deliver meaningful incremental benefits for salmon and steelhead beyond current operations.

“Public power utilities and the communities we serve are fully committed to salmon recovery – and we have been steadily paying for it, year after year,” said Scott Simms, CEO & Executive Director of the Public Power Council. “But this motion asks the Court to mandate sweeping operational changes with immediate reliability and affordability consequences, without a quantified demonstration that the requested spill and reservoir operations will actually improve fish survival beyond what is already in place.”

Experts say electricity cost hikes and reliability risks are measurable, but plaintiffs’ claims of fish benefits are not quantified

PPC’s opposition is supported by sworn declarations, including an independent analysis by Energy GPS’s Joshua Rasmussen that evaluated the plaintiffs’ proposed spill and reservoir constraints by applying them to historical hourly hydropower operations and modeling the resulting impacts. Rasmussen concludes that the proposed injunction would:

• Eliminate approximately 2 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of carbon-free hydropower production each year;
• Reduce available summer hydropower capability by approximately 1,200–1,400 megawatts (MW), with even larger losses during the most critical high-demand hours;
• Increase replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone to approximately $152 million to $169 million, based on forward market prices and study assumptions; and
• Increase carbon emissions by roughly 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026, as lost hydropower is replaced primarily by natural gas generation.

“These losses come at exactly the wrong time,” Simms said. “The Pacific Northwest is already facing tightening resource adequacy margins and rapid load growth. Reducing flexible hydropower during summer heat events materially increases the risk of emergency conditions and higher costs for consumers.”

Meanwhile, Andrew M. Deines, Ph.D., and Managing Scientist at Exponent (and an American Fisheries Society Certified Fisheries Professional), in a separate declaration, explains that plaintiffs’ fisheries expert does not translate the requested operational targets into numerical spill rates, preventing a scientifically robust comparison between current operations and the requested relief. Deines further explains that:

• At today’s already-high spill levels from federal hydro projects, empirical relationships show diminishing marginal returns, meaning additional spill may yield only small incremental biological gains, if any;
• Predictions become increasingly uncertain when extrapolating beyond historically observed operating conditions; and
• Several requested reservoir operations – particularly on the lower Columbia River – would push the system into largely untested operational territory, effectively creating a system-wide experiment.

“We in public power support science-based salmon recovery,” Simms said. “But if plaintiffs want the Court to impose sweeping mandates, they must quantify what they’re asking for and demonstrate the incremental benefit. That showing has not been made.”

Summary of key findings from PPC’s filing

• Significant cost impacts for ratepayers. Energy GPS estimates $152–$169 million in replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone. Public power utilities are not-for-profit and cost-based – meaning increased wholesale costs flow directly to customers.

• Serious grid reliability risks during summer emergencies. The plaintiffs’ requested operations would reduce hydropower’s summer capability by about 1,200–1,400 MW, with impacts reaching as high as roughly 1,700 MW during the most constrained hours analyzed. These reductions occur during the months most exposed to heat-driven scarcity and emergency conditions.

• Higher greenhouse gas emissions. Energy GPS estimates the proposed injunction would increase regional carbon emissions by approximately 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026 through electricity purchases from other power producers, undermining state climate goals while worsening conditions that affect salmon habitat.

• No meaningful showing of incremental fish benefit. PPC’s fisheries expert explains that the plaintiffs’ proposal lacks the numerical spill estimates necessary for standard comparative analysis and relies on assumptions that push into areas of diminishing returns and heightened uncertainty.

Legal and policy context

PPC’s opposition explains that the 2020 Biological Opinion, which governs current Columbia River System operations, was developed through extensive scientific analysis under the Endangered Species Act. PPC argues that plaintiffs have failed to meet the high legal threshold required for mandatory preliminary injunctive relief – particularly given the scale of the requested changes and the substantial reliability and economic impacts identified by PPC’s experts.

“Courts don’t issue mandatory injunctions based on speculation or policy disagreements,” Simms said. “The standard is evidence. The record here does not support imposing sweeping operational mandates with region-wide consequences.”

The filing also underscores that public power utilities already fund one of the largest fish and wildlife restoration programs in the world through Bonneville Power Administration rates.

Advocating for a non-litigation path ahead

Consistent with PPC’s publicly-stated position on this case, the filing urges the Court to deny the requested injunction and encourage a collaborative, science-based path forward.

“After more than two decades of litigation, it should be clear that court-ordered operational mandates are not a durable solution,” Simms said. “The region needs a negotiated approach that supports salmon recovery, respects Tribal treaty rights, protects grid reliability, and keeps power affordable for the people of the Northwest.”

Note to Media: PPC’s news release and filings in pdf form are available upon request at ssimms@ppcpdx.org. For Portland market TV media, PPC can be available with advance notice this week for stand-ups at the Bonneville Lock and Dam:

Bonneville Lock & Dam in North Bonneville, WA United States - Apple Maps

About the Public Power Council

The Public Power Council is a nonprofit association representing consumer-owned electric utilities in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Nevada. PPC members include public utility districts, municipal utilities, and rural electric cooperatives that collectively serve approximately 1.5 million electricity consumers. PPC advocates for reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible power supplies, with a strong commitment to fish and wildlife recovery in the Columbia River Basin.

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As the strike enters week three, and ONA ramps up the rhetoric, Legacy sets the record straight and addresses misrepresentations and disingenuous ONA tactics.

ONA has refused to provide Legacy with a counterproposal for five weeks. In that time, Legacy has made three proposals and remains committed to bargaining in good faith until an agreement is reached.

Portland, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025) – To address the ongoing disinformation shared by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), Legacy Health believes it is imperative to provide key facts and clarity around the Adult Specialty Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) strike and set the record straight about the bargaining process to date and where both sides stand.

Legacy Health has a long track record of productive and collaborative relationships with represented groups and has always been committed to bargaining in good faith to reach a mutually agreeable contract with our APPs. We have met with their bargaining committee over 30 times to try to come to an agreement. As bargaining has progressed, ONA has repeatedly released misleading information and employed increasingly disingenuous and combative tactics that create unnecessary conflict and confusion with employees and the communities we serve.

Below are the facts:

Proposals to Avert a Strike

Since issuing a strike notice on Nov. 20, ONA has not provided a single counterproposal to Legacy. In fact, the union has not submitted a new proposal in more than five weeks, since Nov. 7, even though a counterproposal can be submitted at any day or time. The ball has been in their court for weeks.

Legacy negotiated up to the moment we received ONA’s strike notice on Nov. 20. Our most recent offer included an average 10% increase. ONA indicated they would prepare a response. They did not. Instead, they issued a strike notice.

Even more outrageous, ONA has refused to take Legacy’s most recent offers to its APP members for consideration and a vote. Contrary to what ONA has publicly claimed, Legacy remains ready to review any counterproposal ONA decides to present. The truth is, ONA has walked away from the bargaining table, and we are waiting for them to return. They have the ability to return to the negotiating table at any time and end this strike.

Bargaining and Mediation

Rather than respond to our offers, ONA has escalated tensions, including an incident in which ONA representatives brought a baseball bat to an in-person bargaining session. This is objectively threatening and wildly inappropriate given safety concerns in our hospitals, particularly from healthcare professionals.

On Nov. 20, when Legacy gave the bargaining unit its best and final offer, we made it clear that bargaining could continue, however, if ONA issued a strike notice, bargaining would need to pause so that Legacy could focus on patient care contingency planning. Instead of taking a market-competitive offer to its members, ONA chose to stop bargaining and issue a strike notice.

After the strike began, ONA requested mediation and Legacy immediately agreed, despite ONA publicly claiming that Legacy had refused to engage a mediator. Mediation began on Dec. 8. The federal mediator subsequently scheduled additional sessions for Dec. 15, 18 and 22. Legacy looks forward to participating in each session.

Despite Legacy’s clear willingness to engage a neutral mediator and bargain in good faith, ONA is now reversing course and asserting that a mediator is not necessary. At the same time, they continue to spread misinformation through local and social media, including claims that Legacy is “refusing” to negotiate. These statements are inaccurate and undermine the constructive dialogue needed to reach agreement.

Legacy’s Compensation Philosophy

Our philosophy throughout this process remains unchanged: to reach a fair and market-aligned agreement that supports our employees and the long-term stability of our organization. Legacy Health has offered an average 10% pay increase for all adult specialty advanced practice providers. That means:

• First-year APPs would be offered a salary range of between $151,500 to $165,000, depending on position.
• A provider with 10 years of experience would begin at between $180,000 and $196,000, depending on position.
• The most experienced APPs would earn between $197,500 and $215,000, depending on position.

We understand employees may compare our compensation to other local health systems, yet each system operates within its own financial and economic environment. Legacy’s realities are not the same as others. Our compensation model is based on market data, internal equity and what is financially responsible for our organization given our unique financial challenges. Because the financial ecosystems of local health systems are different, the pay structures are not directly comparable. 

As a safety-net health system, our mission is to care for everyone in our community, including those who rely on Medicaid and other governmental programs. These payers represent a disproportionate share of our patient population, and governmental reimbursement does not cover the full cost of providing care. Despite these realities, the ONA is insisting on 20% to 30% pay increases and refusing to meaningfully participate in the mediation process to try to reach agreement on an alternative package.

Going Forward

Legacy wants to reach an agreement with our valued APPs. We stand ready to bargain in good faith with the ONA and put an end to this strike. We deeply respect our people and are committed to providing them with the resources and tools needed to do the important work they do each day and continue to grow and thrive in their health care careers. 

Throughout this process, we have remained committed to our values and our mission, which extends to providing our people and our community with an accurate and transparent picture of where we are today in this process.

Legacy looks forward to engaging in the next of several scheduled mediation sessions today, Monday, Dec. 15.

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About Legacy Health

Legacy Health is a local nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services — from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children’s care and advanced medical centers — to care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. With an eye toward a healthier community, our partnerships tackle vital issues such as housing and mental health. Legacy strives to help everyone live healthier and better lives, with the vision of being essential to the health of the region. For more information, visit legacyhealth.org.

With Christmas just over one week away and Hanukkah currently underway, Oaks Park has last-minute gift ideas for shoppers in a pinch. Portland's favorite amusement park is making holiday gifting easier—and more exciting—than ever with two limited-time offers perfect for families, friends, and fun-seekers across the region.

Ride Wristband Gift Voucher Sale

For a limited time, shoppers can purchase a 2026 Ride Wristband Gift Voucher for just $29.95. Each voucher is valid for one wristband during the 2026 season, making it an affordable way to give the gift of thrills, laughter, and unforgettable memories at Portland’s beloved amusement park.  Wristbands retail for $49.45 and include unlimited rides.  Vouchers can be redeemed on any standard operating day of the park's 121^st season. Vouchers are delivered instantly by email, making them a convenient last-minute gift option.

Chipper Card Gift Card Bonus Sale

Holiday shoppers can also take advantage of Oaks Park's 15% bonus offer on $50, $100, and $200 Chipper Cards purchased online. The Chipper Card is Oaks Park’s all-around gift card, usable at registers throughout the park—including attractions, games, souvenirs, food and beverages, and more. Funds never expire, and customers can choose to receive a digital voucher instantly or have a physical card shipped to them free of charge.

A Perfect Fit for Every Fun-Lover

Whether gifting a full day of rides or a flexible park-wide spending card, these seasonal specials give families an easy way to share Oregon’s favorite place for fun. Both promotions are available for online purchase only and run for a limited time while supplies last.

For more information or to purchase, visit OaksPark.com.

BEAVERTON, Ore. – Jesuit High School is gearing up for its 57th annual Food Drive, a cherished tradition that mobilizes the school community to provide critical food assistance to families in the Portland area during the holiday season. On Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 2:15 p.m., the Jesuit High School Student Center will transform into a bustling hub where students, faculty and staff will sort and compile food boxes for over 380 families in the Portland area. Any surplus food will be donated to local food pantries to further benefit the community.

The JHS Food Drive has grown significantly since its inception in 1969, when it served approximately 40 families and raised just over $350.  

“As Jesuit High School has grown, so has its Food Drive. The drive not only helps families experiencing food insecurity during the Christmas season but also provides non-perishable foods for local food banks that serve families in need year-round,” said Andrea Casey, Food Drive coordinator.

Over the past two weeks, students have been collecting non-perishable food items and raising funds to purchase perishable goods. Students, faculty, and staff will volunteer through the evening of December 17, sorting and preparing food for delivery on Thursday, December 18, beginning at 12 p.m. The families receiving the food are pre-selected through partnerships with Lifeworks NW, St. Vincent de Paul at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, and several Beaverton elementary schools.  

“We’re not only addressing immediate needs but also raising awareness about the ongoing issue of food insecurity in Oregon,” Casey said. “Our hope is that students understand this is a year-round challenge, not just a seasonal one.”

In addition to the student-led efforts, alumni of Jesuit High School will host their 40th annual Food Drive on December 18-20. Working in collaboration with Lincoln High School, alumni will deliver 2,700 food boxes to families throughout the Portland area. 

“The Alumni Food Drive exemplifies our mission of being men and women for others,” said Kathy Baarts, Jesuit’s Alumni Director. “The need for food continues to grow, and our alumni community rises to meet that need, year after year.”

This longstanding tradition highlights the Jesuit High School community’s dedication to service and compassion, ensuring that hundreds of families experience the joy and relief of a well-stocked table during the holidays.

Food Drive (VIDEO & PHOTO OPP.):

• Wednesday, Dec. 17 @ 2:15 pm – Food collection in student center (Jesuit HS)

About Jesuit High School: Founded in 1956 by the Society of Jesus, Jesuit High School is Oregon's only secondary school in the Ignatian tradition of excellence in education. Our 1,299 students represent a diverse mix of young men and women from the Portland metro area and southwest Washington.

Jesuit High School's mission is to educate "men and women for others.” Our graduates are leaders who are religious, loving, intellectually competent, committed to doing justice, and open to growth. Jesuit is the recipient of two U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Awards, a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Award for its sustainability efforts, and 20 OSAA Cup Awards for outstanding achievement in academics, school activities, athletics, and sportsmanship. More information can be found online at www.jesuitportland.org.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA), in partnership with Oregon Business Magazine, has announced Bend-based real estate developer Brooks Resources Corporation as the recipient of the 2025 Community Applause Award. The award, which recognizes an Oregon business for its significant service and contributions to its community, was presented to Brooks Resources during a banking industry event held on Dec. 11 in Portland.

Founded in 1996, the Community Applause Award invites banks doing business in Oregon to nominate a business customer that gives back to its community in meaningful ways. An independent panel of judges reviews each nomination and selects the winner. Since the award’s inception, 48 Oregon businesses have been honored, including this year’s recipient.

For more than five decades, Brooks Resources Corporation has helped shape the growth and character of Central Oregon through a deep, consistent commitment to community. Each year, the company donates at least 3% of its pre-tax profits and supports hundreds of nonprofit initiatives across social services, housing, arts and culture, education, and environmental stewardship.

What distinguishes Brooks Resources is the intentional, hands-on approach behind its giving. Employees are encouraged to volunteer during work hours, the company matches charitable contributions, and its leadership is actively engaged in community events, board service, and civic initiatives. Even the company’s real estate developments reflect a community-first mindset, incorporating gathering spaces and local partnerships that strengthen connection and sense of place.

The depth of Brooks Resources’ impact is evident in the organizations that championed its nomination. BendFilm credits the company as a founding partner whose two decades of support have expanded artistic access and elevated diverse voices. Family Access Network, MountainStar Family Relief Nursery, and KIDS Center highlight how Brooks Resources’ sustained generosity has improved the lives of vulnerable children and families by helping critical services grow and remain accessible.

RootedHomes points to the company’s essential role in creating new pathways for permanently affordable housing in Bend, while the High Desert Food and Farm Alliance notes Brooks Resources’ unwavering support of local food systems and the farmers who sustain them.

Together, these perspectives paint a picture of a company that is far more than a successful developer. Brooks Resources is a catalyst that helps create stability, connection, opportunity, and a stronger future for Central Oregon.

Brooks Resources was nominated for the Community Applause Award by Lynn Spinoglio, commercial relationship manager at First Interstate Bank. In her nomination, Spinoglio stated, “Brooks Resources exemplifies what it means to care deeply about the place they call home. Their board, leadership, and employees consistently demonstrate thoughtfulness, generosity, and a genuine commitment to making Central Oregon a better place for all.”

As part of the award, OBA provided Brooks Resources with two $500 checks payable to Family Access Network and RootedHomes in its honor. The OBA also produced a video highlighting Brooks Resources and illustrating the impact one company can have when community is truly at the center of its mission.

Update: Direction of Buick LaCrosse changed from westbound to eastbound.

Douglas County, Ore. (Dec. 11, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 38, near milepost 22, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Buick Enclave, operated by David Michael Lawson (48) of Elkton, entered the westbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Kevin Morgan Leiser (65) of Vancouver (WA). The collision caused the Buick Enclave to spin uncontrollably in the roadway, where it was struck by an eastbound Buick LaCrosse, operated by Krystal Richelle Jacks (53) of Elkton, before rolling and coming to rest on its side.

The operator of the Buick Enclave (Lawson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Leiser) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Buick LaCrosse (Jacks) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by Scottsburg Fire and ODOT.

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

Vancouver, Wash. – 2026 annual parking passes for county regional parks are now available for purchase. Daily parking fees are charged year-round at four county regional parks – Frenchman’s Bar, Lewisville, Klineline Pond at Salmon Creek and Vancouver Lake. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the parking fee will be $5 per day, regardless of vehicle type.

The annual county regional park parking passes are $40 and valid from the date of purchase through the 2026 calendar year. County regional parks parking passes are only valid for parking at the four county regional parks. Passes issued by other agencies, such as the Washington State Discover Pass and the city of Vancouver’s Marine Park parking pass, are not valid for parking at the four county regional parks where daily parking fees are charged.

Without an annual pass, the daily parking fee can be paid at the fee booth when fee collection staff are present, via the Flowbird mobile app, self-pay stations or by displaying a valid annual parking pass. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are exempt from the daily parking fee when they present their pass to fee collection staff and display the pass on their vehicle’s dashboard.

County regional parks parking passes can be purchased online at clark.wa.gov/public-works/parking-fees or by calling 564.397.2285 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Additionally, passes will be available to purchase in person in the Bud Van Cleve community room at Luke Jensen Sports Park at 4000 NE 78th Street, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 22, and 29, and Jan. 5 and 12. Passes purchased online or via phone will be sent via mail. Accepted methods of payment include Visa and Mastercard. Passes can be purchased via cash or card at fee booths when staff are present. Passes cannot be purchased via parking meters or with a check.

Parking fees help provide funding to support parks maintenance and impacts of use such as garbage/waste management, restroom cleaning and facilities upkeep. In fall 2025, the Clark County Council approved updated rates for parking fees and facility rentals, to be implemented in 2026.

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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Umatilla County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 5:13 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 395A, near milepost 2, in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Tony James McCorkindale (39) of Pendleton, was struck by a northbound Scion xB, operated by Jose Trinidad Mariano (37) of Hermiston, while crossing the highway in an unlit area.

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

The operator of the Scion (Mariano) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Hermiston Police Department, Umatilla County Fire District 1, 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.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Auto License office will be closed Dec. 26, 2025, and Jan. 2, 2026.

Regular office hours will resume on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026.

The Auto License office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. There are nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County. A complete list of the locations and hours of operation is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview.

Many transactions can be completed online. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview for more information.

Portland Fire & Rescue High Rise Response

Last Monday afternoon, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a potential high-rise fire at the Fox Tower in the downtown core, where most of our high-rise structures are located. Prior to crews’ arrival, 911 callers made multiple reports of heavy black smoke coming out of the building from vents on what appeared to be the 3^rd floor.

Our first arriving engine confirmed smoke in the area as they arrived on scene. The officer on this engine gave a size-up report to all responding companies: “Engine 4 has arrived at a 27-story high-rise building with smoke visible in the area. This is a high-rise incident, announce your arrival and assume your assignment based on your run order.” There is a bit to unpack about the meaning of this size-up that we will address below.

The smoke was found to be caused by a mechanical malfunction of equipment housed in the building and there was no fire problem, no damage to the building, nor was there any threat to the occupants. We have attached an image to show what was seen by the community members who reported this potential emergency.

With the recent tragic multi-building high-rise fire in Hong Kong, PF&R wanted to share a bit about how we address the unique challenges presented by the over 300 high-rise structures in the City of Portland. We also want to share with the community that due to our Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) enforcement of Portland Fire Code and the evacuation and floor warden training our Public Education Office (PEO) provides to building occupants and management, it is very unlikely that we would ever experience a multi-building high-rise fire with so many casualties in the City of Portland.

We define a high-rise building as one that is 7 stories or greater; many of these buildings are tall enough that our 100-foot aerial ladders will not make it to the rooftop. Any fire issues above the 7^th story generally must be addressed from the interior of the building, rather than by utilizing aerial ladders.

Fire prevention and mitigation in a high-rise begins before the structure is even built. The Fire Marshal’s Office has specialized Fire Inspectors embedded within the Portland Permitting and Design (PP&D) Office and these individuals work as a team to ensure that the building design follows fire and building codes that are established for the safety of future occupants of the buildings. Considerations of egress, internal fire suppression systems, communication systems, and materials used in construction along with apparatus access and water supply are all a part of this process. In addition to being involved in the design portion of construction, our Fire Inspectors regularly inspect these buildings once they are constructed and occupied to ensure all safety features are in place and operational. This includes the alarm system, communication system, fire pumps, sprinkler systems, and standpipes.

PF&R’s policies and procedures regarding high-rise fire incidents have evolved markedly over the last decade. With increased awareness of the unique challenges posed by high-rises and after review of high-rise fires worldwide, PF&R Chief Officers formed a committee whose purpose was to update the strategies and tactics used to address these incidents. The result was the formulation of a new high-rise response plan.

The first item that was recognized was that more on-scene PF&R resources are required to sufficiently address high-rise incidents. High rise fires present unique problems to firefighters accustomed to operating at ground level. The common fire problems of access, rescue, fire control, exposure protection, ventilation, and personnel safety are magnified due to the size, height, and potential high occupancy loads present in high rise buildings. This requires more firefighters on scene to address these concerns. PF&R sends 4 engines, 2 ladder trucks, and 2 chief officers to a residential or commercial fire as a first alarm assignment; but if a potential fire incident occurs within a structure categorized as a high-rise, PF&R now sends 7 engines, 3 trucks, a heavy rescue squad, a high-rise focused squad, and 3 Chief Officers.

The initial roll-out of the high-rise plan introduced a task-based assignment system based on the unit arrival order to an incident. These predetermined tasks for each arriving crew allow all firefighters to know exactly what their task is upon their arrival, without any additional direction needed from the incident commander. Because a high-rise can hide significant smoke and fire that may not be visible from the exterior, the predetermined task-based system ensures there are enough people on scene carrying out the necessary actions to address the specific situation at hand. This fosters a safe, effective, and accountable operation that provides the best opportunity to carry out our primary mission: saving lives and property.

PF&R recently revisited the high-rise protocol and determined that by learning from other incidents, we could improve our response plan and as a result, the entire plan was overhauled and revised. In conjunction with these changes, PF&R performed nearly three months of training in 2024, using the US Bancorp Tower. All our crews participated in this training and members of surrounding jurisdictions were invited to participate as well. This mutual aid training not only introduced how we operate to our neighbors, but also was a catalyst to these other fire departments in reevaluating their high-rise plans.

With this new protocol in place, it’s important that our crews continually train until the protocol becomes second nature. When responding to a suspected high-rise fire incident, the chief officers are requiring the entire high-rise protocol be followed until all crews are in their preassigned locations. This “practice as we actually operate” mindset allows us to function effectively should a large-scale high-rise fire incident occur in our response area. Early in the training of our firefighters, we teach our newer members to always expect fire on every call and to never let your guard down; this high-rise protocol and practice is an extension of this lesson.

On top of our constant practice in addressing high-rise incidents, PF&R uses information gathered from other significant events to evaluate how we can better prevent high-rise fires. With the recent 150+ lives lost in the Hong Kong fire, our FMO Prevention Division Training Officer put together a 3-page document with fire prevention lessons learned from this incident. This document included built-in exercises for our Fire Inspectors in the field so they can use this incident to improve the efficacy of their fire inspections in high-rises city-wide.

While we know that all these efforts and training cannot guarantee we won’t experience a high-rise fire incident in Portland, we hope that this information provides some comfort to those that work in, reside in, or occasionally occupy high rise buildings in the City. If there is a desire to do a more in-depth story on our high-rise response, please connect with the PF&R Public Information Officer.

Scholarship supports Lundquist College of Business students who pursue careers in commercial banking

EUGENE, Ore. — A senior accounting major at the University of Oregon’s Lundquist College of Business has been named the recipient of the OnPoint Community Credit Union Scholarship. The $4,000 award will support the senior during the 2025–2026 academic year as they pursue a career in commercial banking. While choosing to remain anonymous, the student shares how the scholarship will help.

“OnPoint’s generosity has made a significant difference in my academic journey, and I am truly honored to receive this scholarship. The support helps ease some of the financial burden; it also motivates me to continue striving for excellence in the field of accounting. I am inspired by OnPoint’s commitment to supporting students like me and hope to one day pay that generosity forward,” said the recent scholarship winner.
 

First-of-its-kind scholarship at the University of Oregon

OnPoint Community Credit Union created the first dedicated commercial banking scholarship at the Lundquist College of Business in 2024. It awards $4,000 annually to an undergraduate student who demonstrates an interest in a banking career.

“At OnPoint, we believe investing in education is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our communities,” said Bob Harding, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Supporting students helps ensure the commercial banking industry continues to thrive with talented, passionate professionals who are ready to make a positive impact.”

Fueling commercial banking education

The OnPoint scholarship aligns with the school’s growing interest in commercial banking. Enrollment in the university’s commercial banking courses has experienced significant growth since 2020, offering students training in financial skills such as risk analysis, loan structuring and ethics, along with providing networking opportunities with industry executives.

2026-27 Applications Are Open

The scholarship application for the 2026–2027 school year will open on December 15 and close on February 16, 2026. The Lundquist College of Business oversees the application and selection process, which includes a personal statement, resume, and committee review. Recipients are selected based on financial need and the student’s interest in pursuing a career in banking.

# # # 

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 631,000 members and with assets of $9.56 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis and Skamania) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

The Thompson Elk Fountain is making its return to Downtown Portland, and we’re as excited as you are. But bringing back this historic piece of public art isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Join the Portland Water Bureau for a Q&A about the restoration process and the complex underground water system that brings the fountain to life. Receive project updates directly from the architects, engineers, conservators and builders working to bring this beloved piece of the city’s history back home.

What:   Get the latest status on the elk’s return, directly from the project’s engineers, conservators and builders

When:  Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon

Where: The Thompson Elk Fountain site, SW Main Street between Third and Fourth Avenues

Read more about the elk’s progress here.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of 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.

Access and accommodations

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

SEASIDE, Ore. – December 14, 2025 – At approximately 6:03 a.m. on December 14, 2025, the Seaside Police Department, along with Seaside Fire & Rescue, responded to a reported motor vehicle crash into the garage of a house in the 1600 block of South Franklin Street.
 

Upon arrival, officers determined that both occupants of the vehicle had already left the scene. The individual believed to be the driver was later located and taken into custody.

The second individual, believed to have been a passenger in the vehicle, has not been located or heard from since the crash. Due to the nature of the collision and possible injuries, there are concerns for his safety. The missing individual is identified as 49-year-old Andrew Paul Sargent of Seaside.

Law enforcement has conducted an extensive search of the area, including coordination with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office for a K9 track and assistance from the Cannon Beach Police Department with a thermal drone sweep. Despite these efforts, Sargent has not yet been located.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Sargent is urged to contact the Seaside Police Department at (503) 738-6311. If you believe you have information related to his immediate safety, please dial 9-1-1.

This is an active investigation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. The uninjured homeowner has been displaced due to the accident.

end of release

Mount Hood, Ore. – The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office has suspended recovery operations for a 26-year-old climber from Bend who was last seen attempting to summit Mt. Hood.

At about 11:30 am on December 13^th, 2025, the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office (HRCSO) was notified of an overdue climber on Mt. Hood.  Matthew Aldridge (26) of Bend was reported overdue by a climbing partner.  A trio of climbers started at Mt. Hood Meadows ski resort and intended to summit Mt. Hood via the Newton Clark Headwall.  Two climbers turned back due to conditions, but Matthew continued his ascent.  When the partners had not heard from him, they called to report him overdue. 

The Sheriff’s Office initiated a search that included a HRCSO fixed-wing aircraft, ground searchers, and cell phone forensics.  The initial search was narrowed to an area near Pea Gravel Ridge above 8400’ in elevation, after phone data suggested a fall.  The first attempt to reach the area with ground searchers was unsuccessful due to darkness and unsafe conditions. 

A larger ground search of the area was resumed in the early morning hours on December 14^th, 2025.  Searchers from the Hood River Crag Rats and Portland Mountain Rescue made it to the likely location previously identified but were unsuccessful in locating any sign of Matthew.  Due to deteriorating weather and treacherous conditions, the Sheriff’s Office made the difficult decision at midday to withdraw searchers and suspend the ground search for Matthew.  Additional efforts may be attempted as conditions allow, but the search has shifted to a recovery mission. 

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Hood River Crag Rats, Portland Mountain Rescue, Mt. Hood Meadows, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Northwest Avalanche Center for their assistance with this challenging mission.

Date:           December 14, 2025

Contact:      Jess Palma, Public Information Officer

                   541-265-0652

                   iff@co.lincoln.or.us">lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us  

HIGHWAY 229 LANDSLIDE UPDATE – 02
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active as we assist with the landslide that closed Highway 229 beginning December 12, 2025. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continues to work with local and state partners to assess the developing situation and local impacts.

The site is still active and can be dangerous. Avoid the impacted and surrounding area. Ten homes were placed on evacuation notice. Occupants that remain in the hazard area were issued additional evacuation recommendations on December 12, 2025.

Three structures, including two homes, have been damaged in the landslide. Community members are encouraged to use extreme caution in and around the Siletz River to avoid risk of injury from debris and dangers associated with the heightened river level.  

There have been reports of debris washing up on the shores of the river, the Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members are encouraged to avoid climbing on or moving the debris. Any discovery of items with personal identification should be reported to local law enforcement.

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has reported it is unknown how long the Highway 229 closure will last and that geotechnical crews need time to assess the slope and determine next steps before a timeline can be established.

Please be aware that there is no nearby detour available. Travelers should avoid the area and plan alternate routes. We'll continue to monitor conditions and will share updates as more information becomes available. Travelers are encouraged to check TripCheck.com for the latest road conditions before heading out.

Additional Information on the Landslide or to Inform Your Safety and Travel Plans:

• Weather: www.weather.org
• Road closures: tripcheck.com
• Lincoln County Emergency Alerts: sign up to receive messages directly - member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
• Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT): www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx

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On Friday, October 24, 2025, at approximately 9:41pm, Keizer Police officers responded to a report of a male with a gunshot wound to the chest in the area of McGee Court NE.  The victim was determined to be 20-year-old Landon Ostrom who, while bleeding, ran to neighbors for help and reported he was shot and robbed inside his apartment by one female and two males, all armed with guns.  The unidentified suspects took the victim's firearms and other personal belongings and fled the scene before police arrival.  Neighbors and responding officers rendered aid to Mr. Ostrom who was then transported to the hospital and, despite having sustained life-threatening injuries, survived the attack.  In their initial response, Keizer PD officers were assisted by the Salem Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff's Office, and the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Keizer Police detectives responded to the scene the same night and continued to tirelessly work the case for weeks, looking for evidence and applying for, obtaining, and serving multiple subpoenas and search warrants.  Detectives were assisted by analysts from the FBI and Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ).

The investigation involved evidence gathering and surveillance operations in multiple counties, and led detectives to Eugene, OR.  As the suspects were identified in the course of the investigation it was determined the home-invasion robbery was a targeted attack, with prior knowledge of the victim and his possessions.

On Friday, December 12, 2025, an apprehension and search warrant execution operation was conducted by Keizer PD detectives and patrol officers, with assistance from detectives from Salem PD, as well as detectives, patrol officers, and SWAT from the Eugene Police Department.  The three suspects—two males and one female—were taken into custody and search warrants were executed at multiple locations.  One firearm was seized during the operation.  The three suspects were transported to the Keizer Police Department and later to the Marion County Correctional Facility.  The males (Daniel Tijerina and Romeo Luna, both 20 years of age from Eugene) were lodged on charges of Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Menacing; while the female (Eugene resident, 19-year-old Franki Salyers-Livingston) was charged with Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Menacing, and Assault in the First Degree.

This investigation remains ongoing, and no further information is available for release at this time. Anyone with information related to this case or the suspects identified is urged to contact the Keizer Police Department Criminal Investigations Division.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on December 16, 2025. 
The MESD Board will review Board Policy IIBGA- Electronic Communications Systems coverage of internet safety for minors in compliance with CIPA (Childrens Internet Protection Act)

This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84042789763?pwd=jYRHNbDhNIIfkfp8o7ZNW9smaWzJJC.1
Passcode:211990

• Free on-street parking downtown from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 13 and Dec. 20, 2025

Salem, Ore. – In celebration of the 2025 holiday season, the City of Salem has temporarily suspended paid on-street parking in the Downtown Parking District on Sat., Dec. 13 and Sat., Dec. 20, 2025. This suspension will be in effect at on-street parking meters from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., supporting local businesses and encouraging community engagement during this special season. Free parking is also available in downtown parkades. Visit downtown Salem this holiday season to shop, dine and play!

"We are excited to announce free parking for the next two Saturdays. We are grateful that our parking meter programmers were able to do some holiday magic just in time to give Salem a gift. Free downtown parking this Saturday and next Saturday,” said Kristin Retherford, Salem Community Planning and Development Director.

Downtown Salem is a vibrant destination filled with unique shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and scenic walking and biking trails. Whether you're exploring on foot or by bike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information about things to do in Salem, go to https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/things-to-do.

Information about parking in Salem is available at www.cityofsalem.net/parking.

# # #

Case: 21CR56098

                                                                                                                        December 12, 2025

Portland, OR- Christian Fitz Henry, 31-years-old, was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for shooting at two Portland Police Officers who were trying to stop him.

Today’s sentences follow guilty verdicts back on March 4, 2025. A jury found the defendant guilty of the following crimes:

Two counts of Attempted murder in the First Degree with a Firearm.

Two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm.

Felon in possession of a Firearm.

In a separate case (22CR02061) Fitz-Henry was sentenced on April 15, 2024 to 10 years in prison after being convicted of Robbery in the First  Degree and Felon in Possession  with a Firearm.

The 20 years given today will begin after those ten years are served, meaning that the defendant is now sentenced to a total of 30 years prison.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Shawn Overstreet prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing today he said:

“The judge issued a sentence today that holds Mr. Fitz-Henry accountable for his cowardly actions. Mr. Fitz-Henry was on the run for a robbery and murder when these brave officers attempted to stop and arrest him. These officers were shot at while simply doing their jobs. The sentence today sends a strong message that these types of crimes will not be tolerated in Multnomah County.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Portland Police Bureau for their thorough work investigating this case.

THE FACTS:

On October 1, 2021 Fitz-Henry used a 9 millimeter gun to rob Joshua Newell in a townhome near SE 128th and Stark in Portland. During that robbery Mr. Newell was shot and killed. Fitz-Henry was charged with the murder but a jury found him not guilty. He was also charged and convicted of the robbery.

While police were working that case, they began looking for Fitz-Henry and found him November 13, 2021. As the officers tried to stop Fitz-Henry in a stolen car he was a passenger in, he fired at both officers, fortunately missing them. He was eventually arrested and charged with trying to kill the officers.

                                        ###MCDA###

SALEM, Ore.--Washington state is currently experiencing major flooding that is impacting multiple communities, and Oregon is stepping up to support its neighbors during this emergency.

At the request of the Washington Emergency Management Division, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) deployed a six-member swift water rescue team from Clackamas Fire District on Dec. 11 to assist with ongoing flood response efforts. The team is on a seven-day mission and is supporting life-safety operations in affected areas.

This deployment was coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or EMAC — a national mutual aid system that enables states to share resources during disasters. EMAC ensures that assistance is coordinated, reimbursable and that responders are properly credentialed. This marks the first EMAC deployment for Oregon’s swift water rescue team.

“Oregon is proud to stand with Washington during this challenging time,” said Kelly Jo Craigmiles, emergency program coordinator with the OEM Response Team. “These highly trained responders are answering the call to protect lives and support communities impacted by flooding.”

In addition to the rescue team, Oregon also has alerted Washington that the 125th National Guard is ready to deploy if needed, and that there are additional drone resources available with county-level pilots prepared to assist with aerial assessments and situational awareness. The drones are part of Oregon's State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program.

OEM extends its gratitude to the responders for their professionalism and commitment, and to state and local partners in both Oregon and Washington for their continued collaboration.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Clackamas Fire District Public Information Officer at 971-204-5944 or cfdpio@clackamasfire.com

GRESHAM, Ore.— The City of Gresham East Multnomah Outreach Prevention Intervention (EMOPI) team is supporting a free “Know Your Rights” training to be hosted by community-based organization Latino Network.
 

What: “Know Your Rights” training
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Register: wikdh20l.forms.app/know-your-rights-event-registration

The training aims to educate attendees about their constitutionally protected rights as they relate to interactions with state and federal law enforcement agencies. The physical address for the training and a link to a virtual option will be provided upon registration.

#     #     #

About Gresham:  

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

Siletz, Ore. December 12, 2025, 1:00 pm
 

There is a highway closure at Milepost 14 of Highway 229 due to landslide, The highway will be closed for an undetermined amount of time. Please use an alternate route. The landslide has impacted roughly a 0.2 mile stretch of road.
 

We are asking the public to please stay out of the impacted area.
 

The impacted area includes up to five residential properties, including substantial impact to at least three residential structures. All known occupants in the impacted area have been accounted for and have been safely evacuated.
 

The slide, including earth debris, structural debris, and possibly vehicle debris has entered the Siletz River. The slide originally occurred on property owned by Weyerhaeuser above Highway 229 and continued down to the properties below the highway and the Siletz River. Their representatives have been notified of the situation and are evaluating their property. Two of the evacuated residents have been connected to the American Red Cross for services.
 

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Oregon Department of Transportation, Siletz Valley Rural Fire Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue responded to the scene.
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Center to assist in response to the slide. State agencies have been notified regarding the river impacts.
 

As always, review www.tripcheck.com before you travel for the most up to date information.

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Announces FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program Grant Applications Open with a Tight Timeline

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is pleased to announce the release of the FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) Applications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This federal grant program is designed to help nonprofit organizations enhance the physical and cybersecurity of facilities that may be at risk of terrorist or extremist threats.

Eligible nonprofit organizations across Oregon are encouraged to submit their application for funding to strengthen their security posture. OEM will provide further instructions to organizations that register and meet eligibility requirements

Key Program Details:

• Maximum Funding: Up to $200,000 per location with no more than $600,000 in FY25 NSGP Funding per organization.
• Application Limit: Up to six locations total, with no more than three in the same designated area: either high-risk Urban Area (UA) or the rest of the State (S).
• Application Deadline: 10 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026
• View a prerecorded application training here.
• OEM will hold more in-depth Q&A sessions in early January. To stay informed about NSGP updates and information sessions, subscribe to the email list.

To Apply:

To be eligible for funding, organizations must register with this form and complete the FY25 Investment Justification Form (IJ form must be downloaded to view).

1. After submitting the registration form, a confirmation message will appear—please take a screenshot for your records. 
2. Then send your completed FY25 Investment Justification Form and the screen shot to shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov.

We recognize this is a short timeline to develop grant applications, we were notified of this deadline on December 12, 2025. We must submit prioritized project proposals to FEMA by Friday January 30, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

More information:

• For federal updates on NSGP and other programs, visit our Federal Actions page.
• For grant questions or assistance, please email: shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will hold a special virtual meeting to discuss the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests on Friday, Dec. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon.  There is no in-person option for this meeting.

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

 Agenda items will include:

• A public comment period.
• Review of the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests.

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – TriMet’s Transit Police Division (TPD) has arrested a 49-year-old man following a dangerous high-speed incident that began on Interstate 84 and ended with a collision in the Lloyd District.

“This incident demonstrates how extreme speeding and reckless driving in an urban area can put innocent bystanders at great risk,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Transit Police members do an excellent job of helping to support public safety beyond just our transit system. They are often the first to encounter dangerous and unlawful behavior and are quick to address it.”

At approximately 11 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, a Transit Police saw a vehicle traveling more than 100 miles per hour westbound on Interstate 84. Another vehicle passed TPD at speeds estimated to be nearly 120 miles per hour.

The TPD unit initiated a traffic stop as the second car took the Lloyd Center exit. The driver initially came to a stop near Northeast 13th Avenue and Holladay Street. While initially cooperative, TPD members saw behavior from the driver that raised safety concerns.

As a precaution, TPD members put down a tire deflation device, which proved intuitive because the driver, identified as Steven Roll, took off just before being asked to step out.

When deployed on a stationary vehicle, the tire deflation device does not damage the vehicle’s tire. However, if the driver leaves during the traffic stop, the device will pop the tire allowing for a controlled air release.

The device functioned as intended, deflating the tire.

Roll turned on Northeast 13^th Avenue before turning west onto Northeast Multnomah Street.

TPD members did not pursue but notified dispatch and other nearby officers.

A short distance later, Roll hit the center median near the well-known Lloyd District clock, causing significant damage to the structure, nearby planter boxes, and ultimately a parked, unoccupied vehicle. At the time of the initial impact, Roll is believed to have been well in of excess the posted speed limit.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported to any TPD members or community members.

TPD members caught up with Roll, who attempted to run from the crash scene, and took him into custody without further incident. Paramedics took him to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies booked Roll into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of reckless driving, attempting to elude by vehicle, attempting to elude on foot, criminal  mischief in the second degree, possession of a forgery instrument, reckless endangerment, driving under the influence of intoxicants, interfering with a peace officer, escape in the third degree, forgery in the first degree, failure to perform the duties of a driver, and possession of methamphetamine.

Charges are only allegations, and every arrested person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

ORS 133.870 generally prohibits the release of jail booking photos to the public unless it is determined that there is a law enforcement purpose.

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change. 

Several photos from the crash scenes are being released. Media may use these with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

 About Transit Police:   

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. 

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. 

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BURGLARY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO VEHICLE PURSUIT AND ARREST
 

December 11, 2025 – Waldport, OR
 

On December 11, 2025, at approximately 9:00 AM, Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a report of a burglary that occurred in Waldport. Surveillance video showed a red Dodge Ram pull up to the business, the male driver then got out of the truck and spray painted over two of the three working cameras, and then proceed to force entry into the business. The male stole an electronic bike and an undisclosed amount of cash before leaving. Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office worked with Coos Bay Sheriff’s Office, Coos Bay Police, and North Bend Police and learned the registered owner of the truck sold the vehicle earlier that morning in the Coos Bay area.
 

At approximately 11:45 AM, Officers with Newport Police Department (NPD) located the red Dodge truck in the Fred Meyer Parking lot in Newport. After attempting to contact the driver of the truck, the driver fled the scene in the vehicle. Newport Police pursued the vehicle North on Highway 101. NPD was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Lincoln City Police in deploying stop sticks on the vehicle. The truck continued North on Highway 101 until it crashed near SE 51^st and Highway 101. The suspect then attempted to run on foot before quickly being subdued by onlookers at the crash site and taken into custody by officers without further incident. The suspect was identified as 33-year-old Tyler Mullen. Mullen was lodged at Lincoln County Jail on charges of Parole Warrant, Attempt to Elude (Vehicle), Attempt to Elude (Foot), Reckless Driving, two counts of Reckless Endangering, two counts of Criminal Mischief II, two counts of Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, Burglary II, Theft I, and Criminal Mischief II.
 

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all its partnering agencies in this apprehension.
 

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The solidarity action will result in a total of 220 APPs striking during a busy holiday season

Portland, Ore. - Advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Go Health clinics and Legacy Pediatrics gave notice to Legacy management that they will strike with the 140 APPs from Legacy’s hospitals and clinics already on strike. The 80 members launching the solidarity strikes are also represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). ONA member leaders say the expanding strike reflects widespread frustration with Legacy’s bargaining approach and with APPs' working conditions systemwide.

On Monday, December 8, Legacy management finally returned to the bargaining table but showed little interest in meaningful mediation and announced they would not meet again with striking APPs until December 18. Legacy has since agreed to additional mediation on December 15 and 22.

Members of Legacy Go Health will hold a two-day strike on Dec. 21 and 22, while Pediatric APPs will hold their strike on Dec. 22 and 23. The official strike notice was issued less than a week after the two bargaining units voted overwhelmingly to stand with their striking colleagues. 

Both groups cited concerns about patient care, staffing, equity across the healthcare system and Legacy management’s refusal to bargain fairly as key reasons for joining the strike line. 

“We didn’t take this vote lightly,” said Sara Lopez, a physician associate (PA) at Legacy Go Health clinics. “Our patients rely on us every day, but we also rely on a system that treats providers fairly and ensures care is safe and sustainable. Standing with our colleagues is the only way to move Legacy toward a solution that supports both providers and patients.” 

“APPs across Legacy provide excellent medical care to Legacy patients but many of us feel that our contributions go unrecognized. We unified to address compensation that is below market value, inadequate staffing, and workload demands that impact patient safety and provider well-being,” said Jordyn Luttrell, DNP, a Legacy Pediatrics APP. “We’re joining the strike because the problems affecting our colleagues today will affect all Legacy APPs tomorrow unless something changes.” 

Striking APPs at Legacy’s hospitals and clinics welcomed the show of unity from APPs at Go Health and Pediatrics. 

“This is what solidarity looks like,” said April Callister, a physician associate who is currently on strike. “Legacy has been counting on divisions between clinics and specialties to maintain the status quo. By standing together, we are sending a clear message: we want a fair contract, safe staffing, and a system that respects the work we do.” 

What is a solidarity strike? 
A solidarity strike is a legally-protected work stoppage in which a group of employees refuse to work in order to support another bargaining unit engaged in a labor dispute. 

Background
Legacy Go Health APPs won their NLRB election in January 2025. The ONA-represented bargaining unit includes about 50 nurse practitioners and physician associates working in immediate care clinics across the state. The Legacy Pediatric APP bargaining unit, which unionized in August 2025, represents about 30 nurse practitioners and physician associates delivering specialized pediatric care in the Portland area and SW Washington.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.   

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from December 7 to December 10, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on December 7 and December 9. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 8 or December 10. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on December 3, 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 

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Salem, OR – The Executive Committee of the State Library Board will meet virtually 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, December 19th, 2025. The committee will use this time to conduct business and set the agenda for the upcoming State Library Board meeting. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. 

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

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department will conduct focused enforcement efforts relating to the crime of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, including the use of our Drug Recognition Expert to detect impairment. This effort will occur throughout the holiday season in December and New Year's Day.  Approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers and we are committed to preventing these tragedies by getting impaired drivers off of the road.  NDPD receives grant funding through the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact to staff additional officers for periodic traffic enforcement operations such as this.