HILLSBORO, Ore- On May 9, 2025, Ryan Michael Hancock, age 23, was convicted of rape in the first degree, unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, sexual abuse in the first degree, and three counts of sexual abuse in the second degree. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted the defendant before Judge Erik Buchér.

On August 20, 2020, the 18-year-old defendant met the first victim, a 15-year-old girl, at a party. The defendant gave the teenager alcohol, and she became extremely intoxicated. Later that night, the defendant took the victim to his car where he raped and sexually assaulted her. She told him no several times but was too impaired to stop the attack. She disclosed the abuse to her friend the next day and disclosed to loved ones and Hillsboro police in 2021.

In March of 2022, the defendant drove to the second victim’s house and convinced her to get into his car. He and a friend drove the 17-year-old victim to a park and forced her to drink alcohol and smoke marijuana despite her repeated objections. She became intoxicated. The defendant sexually assaulted her and refused to let her leave. The victim was able to text a friend for help. The friend went to the park and saw the victim get out of the defendant’s car in a state of undress. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Investigators fear there could be additional victims. Anyone with information about Mr. Hancock should contact law enforcement.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for their bravery in reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the work of the Hillsboro Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 30, 2025.

The Portland Police Bureau is releasing a second photo of Joan Ivan in hopes that it will help in locating the missing endangered woman. In the photo, Joan is wearing glasses and detectives believe she was wearing the glasses when she left her residence.

Since Monday afternoon, there have been three possible sightings of Joan in the Cully and Old Town Neighborhoods. PPB would like to thank the community for phoning in those tips. In addition, PPB is renewing its plea to the community to remain vigilant and call 911 if they spot Joan. 

Anyone with information that is not time sensitive is asked to contact detectives at missing@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-130789.  

Photo description: Joan Ivan wearing glasses

Photo description: Joan Ivan’s DMV photo

###PPB###

Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau is requesting the public’s help in locating a missing endangered woman.

On the morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, the Portland Police Bureau received a call about a missing woman identified as Joan Ivan. Officers determined the 81-year-old left her residence near Northeast Stanton Street and North Williams Avenue between 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16 and 9:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19. Detectives are concerned about Joan because she has dementia.

Joan is described as a Caucasian female, 5’5” tall, and 110 lbs. While it is unclear what she is currently wearing, Joan was last seen in glasses, a long sleeve shirt, a Columbia rain jacket, and black and white leggings. Joan is known to frequent Dawson Park and the nearby New Seasons.   

Anyone who sees Joan is urged to call 911. Anyone with information that is not time sensitive is asked to contact detectives at missing@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-130789.

Photo description: Joan Ivan’s DMV photo

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VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Tuesday, May 20, community members, students, and Vancouver Public Schools Leadership celebrated the opening of the Endeavour Technical Trades Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Hudson’s Bay High School.

Date: May 20, 2025

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Hudson’s Bay High School
                1601 E McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver, WA

The state-of-the-art building, made possible by The Endeavour Fund, is an additional 7,500 square feet of workspace for Vancouver Public Schools’ students to learn and engage in hands-on training in areas like foundations, framing, plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, and other fundamental construction skills. In the new building, the students will be able to use simulators for forklifts, mobile cranes, and other heavy equipment. 

Eighty students will pilot the program in the upcoming 2025-26 school year, and the program will expand to 100 students in the 2026-27 school year. 

The dedication plaque, unveiled at the event, highlights the vision that made this a reality: “This building stands as a testament to the vision and commitment of our donors and community partners - empowering students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to build fulfilling careers and enrich our community for generations to come.”

For Media: photos and videos from the event can be found here.

For this initiative, the Foundation for VPS played a vital role by leading collaboration with donors, community partners, and district staff, achieving a 100% donor-funded project, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of The Endeavour Fund and the district’s generous community and business partners. Thank you to all who made this building possible:

The Endeavour Fund

Quail Homes

Building Futures Foundation

Bunch Construction, Inc

Cascade Wire Works, LLC

Cascade Electrical

CEG Engineering, Inc

Christenson Electrical

Covalent Architecture, LLC

First Impressions Concrete, LLC

Frontier Metal Fabrications

Greenwood Painting, LLC

Jack’s Overhead Door, Inc

JNB Mechanical, Inc

Legacy 6, LLC

MacKay Sposito

Meteor Education

MJS Contracting, Inc

Nucor

Patriot Fire Protection, Inc

PBS Engineering & Environmental 

Point Monitor Corporation

Pro Property Services, LLC

River City Enterprises, Inc

Steward Mechanical, Inc

Stoner Electric Group

Westmore Construction, LLC

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

(Salem, OR) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) announced that Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner accepted a position with Casey Family Programs as Senior Director of Strategic Consulting. The new role will allow her to continue the work of improving the well-being of children and families, but at a national level, while also giving her more flexibility to take care of family needs. Flint-Gerner’s last day at ODHS will be June 20.

During her tenure, Flint-Gerner expanded the Child Welfare leadership team to better support investments in data-driven improvements, safety practice and workforce development.

“I am grateful for Aprille’s strong leadership over the past two years as Child Welfare Director. In her new role, I know she will continue to lead needed changes in child welfare that will positively affect children and families nationwide,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. 

Rolanda Garcia, a leader with nearly three decades of experience within ODHS, will serve as interim Child Welfare director. Garcia has held a variety of leadership roles in both Child Welfare  and ODHS’s Self-Sufficiency Programs, focusing on improving the experience of people served by the agency. She is known for building strong community partnerships to better serve Oregonians and data-driven decision-making.

“Rolanda brings a deep knowledge of Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency Programs, as well as a strong commitment to advancing Child Welfare’s priorities of keeping children safe within their homes and communities. I am confident her strong management and business operations background will benefit Child Welfare,” Director Fariborz Pakseresht said.

Flint-Gerner, who joined ODHS Child Welfare as Deputy Director of Equity, Training and Workforce Development in 2020, served as director for the past two years. Flint-Gerner championed a wide-reaching child safety initiative this year and oversaw the successful rollout of a program designed to better support families and prevent a possible Child Welfare intervention. Child safety and family support programs have contributed to a decline in the number of children in Oregon’s foster care system, from a high of 7,908 in 2018, to 4,481 at the close of 2024.

“We have a strong foundation in Child Welfare thanks to Aprille’s leadership and the team she built around her,” Pakseresht said. “Rolanda’s combination of broad and deep experience will enable her to build upon the progress underway to improve the lives of children and families in Oregon.”

About the Oregon Department of Human Services
The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

5/20/2025 – Lincoln County, Or
 

To help meet changing community needs, our office establishes a new strategic plan every four years. This process is one way we continue to find ways to improve and grow with our communities. Although each plan may look a little different, we remain committed to our mission to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve quality of life. 

Considering our communities’ dynamic and varying needs, three overarching areas rose to the top: team growth and development, organizational excellence and customer service, and community safety and collaboration.

The three goals in this plan are:

• Enhance team safety, growth, and retention by creating a safer, more engaging and wellness-focused environment.
• Foster organizational excellence, earn and maintain public trust, and deliver outstanding service through continuous improvement, transparency, and  prioritizing community needs.
• Enhance community safety and improve quality of life for residents and visitors through proactive law enforcement, collaboration, and innovative solutions.

Our team takes serving our community seriously. We will work tirelessly to meet community expectations and achieve our mission, while using this strategic plan as a roadmap for the next 4 years. Together we can continue to build a safer, pro-active community where all are treated with respect.

View the full strategic plan here: www.co.lincoln.or.us/DocumentCenter/View/4940/STRATEGIC-PLAN-2025---2028---Final?bidId=
 

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The Portland Police Bureau held their annual Police Memorial Ceremony today, Tuesday, May 20, at 12:00 p.m. at the Portland Police Memorial, located in Waterfront Park. The memorial service included the Portland Police Honor Guard, music from the Portland Police Highland Guard, a 21-gun salute, and a water display from Portland Fire & Rescue. Mayor Keith Wilson, Chief Bob Day, Portland Police Association President Aaron Schmautz and Assistant Chief Amanda McMillan spoke at the ceremony.

This year a new officer’s name was added to the Portland Police Memorial: Patrolman Andrew James Laugeson, who was killed in the line of duty on May 12, 1917, after he was thrown to the pavement while trying to board a moving streetcar.

Patrolman Laugeson’s name was discovered when Portland Police Historical Society board members were researching historic news articles about Portland officers killed in the line of duty.  They discovered that Patrolman Laugeson was one of nine fallen officers recognized in the 1920s, but that his name was not included on memorial walls. Through their exhaustive research efforts, they were able to verify and document the way he died for submission and inclusion to local, state and national police memorial walls. Today, Chief Bob Day presented the Memorial Flag to the great-grandson of Patrolman Laugeson.

Since 1870, 30 Portland Police officers and two police canines have been killed in the line-of-duty in service to the City of Portland.
 

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. Due to scheduling conflicts, the Portland Police Memorial Ceremony was held this week.
 

The Portland Police Memorial was built through the efforts of the Portland Police Historical Society and was dedicated during National Police Week in May 1993 by President George H.W. Bush. To learn more about the Portland Police Historical Society, visit:   https://www.portlandpolicemuseum.com/

Photo description1: Portland Police Chief Bob Day salutes presents the Memorial Flag

Photo description: The great-grandson of Patrolman Andrew Laugeson participates in adding the streamer with Honor Guard

Photo description: Honor Guard performing the 21-gun salute

Photo description: Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Boat display

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Lane County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Monday, May 19, 2025, at 7:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepost 18, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota Hilux, operated by Martin Tammekivi (37) of Oregon City, was approaching slowed traffic when it entered the eastbound lane and was struck on the passenger side door by an eastbound Dodge 2500, operated by Benjamin Norman Myles (28) of Eugene. 

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

The operator of the Dodge (Myles) suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by Lowell Rural Fire, Dexter Rural 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.

As the region gears up for another busy summer on local rivers and waterways, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R) is inviting media representatives to a water rescue demonstration on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The event will spotlight TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the life-saving operations that keep our waterways safe.

With warmer weather driving more people to swim, paddle, and float, water safety becomes a top concern. TVF&R’s demonstration will feature real-time watercraft deployment, rescue simulations, and interviews with rescue technicians, giving media a firsthand view of the challenges rescue teams face.

TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team is made up of two highly trained, 4-person firefighter crews. Each team member is cross-trained in advanced rescue techniques and water-specific hazards such as swift currents, shifting depths, and underwater obstacles. The teams are based at Station 59 (West Linn) and Station 20 (Newberg)—both positioned for rapid response on the Willamette River.

As part of the Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium, TVF&R works collaboratively to respond to water-related emergencies across the region. The multi-agency team covers about 50 miles along the Willamette River from Salem to the lower Willamette toward Portland, including all of Clackamas County and roughly 50 miles of the Clackamas River. Additional waterways include large areas of Washington County, including 38 miles of the Tualatin River, a portion of Yamhill County, Molalla River, and the Pudding River.

According to data from Oregon Bureau of Vital Statistics and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the second leading cause of death for Oregon children aged 0 to 4 and the fourth for those aged 5 to 18. With summer fast approaching, TVF&R is using this event to emphasize the importance of water safety, life jacket use, and safe recreation practices around rivers, lakes, and pools.

Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Willamette River Oregon City Boat Launch - 1701 Clackamette Dr, Oregon City, OR 97045
Media Check-in: Begins at 9:30 AM (Life jackets provided)

Please RSVP to pio@tvfr.com.

Klamath County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2:54 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 1, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Dodge Durango, operated by Forrest Clinton George Fairchild (40) of Klamath Falls, struck a disabled Honda CRV that was partially blocking the eastbound lane. The Honda was occupied by Kaylee Rae Volpe (18) of Klamath Falls and a male juvenile (17) was in front of the vehicle attempting to diagnose the failure. The male juvenile was thrown over a bridge barrier and into the Klamath River.

The operator of the Dodge (Fairchild) suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Jeep (Volpe) was reportedly uninjured.

The passenger of the Jeep (male juvenile) was declared deceased after being recovered from the Klamath River.

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

OSP was assisted by the Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath County Fire District #1, Klamath County Fire District #4, Klamath County Dive Rescue, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Curry County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 6:21 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 101, near milepost 300, in Curry County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Jeep Patriot, operated by Wylie Joe Summerlin (62) of Port Orford, attempted to avoid a deer in the roadway, swerved off of the highway, and struck a tree. 

The operator of the Jeep (Summerlin), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased after being transported to a nearby hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Port Orford Fire Department, Port Orford Police Department, Curry 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.

Update: Operation concludes as investigators depart facility

On May 18, just before 10 p.m., investigators concluded their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari and cleared the area. As a result of the search, 310 animals were seized and relocated to accredited and/or permitted animal sanctuary or rescue facilities. No animals were released into the wild or unattended as a result of the search warrants.

Unfortunately, due to their physical condition, a chicken and a kinkajou were euthanized. This is in addition to the camel that was euthanized on the first day of the search and is not the young camel featured in the previously distributed photograph.

Investigators are now processing all of the evidence obtained during their four-day search of the property. Due to the ongoing investigation and future adjudication of the case, no further information is available for release.

Oregon State Police thanks our partners and the multiple animal sanctuary and rescue organizations who assisted during the multiday incident. These efforts would not have been possible or successful without their continued assistance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media: B-Roll Video

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Oregon State Police

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

TriMet Seeks $190M-$290M for Interstate Bridge Light Rail Vehicles 
Charging Taxpayers up to $15M per vehicle—Triple its $4.5M Cost

[Vancouver, WA] – Washington State Representative John Ley has issued a stark warning to Clark County taxpayers regarding Portland’s TriMet transit agency’s escalating demands for the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program. According to Ley, TriMet is attempting to overcharge taxpayers for new MAX light rail vehicles, with costs soaring far beyond previous contracts.

In a recent statement on X, and an opinion piece in Clark County Today, Rep. John Ley criticized TriMet’s actions, declaring, “TriMet is trying to fleece taxpayers with inflated costs for light rail vehicles tied to the I-5 Interstate Bridge Replacement project.” A public record request uncovered that four months before the Washington and Oregon governors revived the failed Columbia River Crossing (CRC) project in 2019—a project that collapsed in 2014 when the Oregon Legislature refused funding—TriMet had ordered 26 new Siemens light rail vehicles (LRVs) for $147 million. According to Ley, this averaged under $5 million per vehicle, including parts, manuals, and training. TriMet later paid $4.5 million each for four additional vehicles for its Better Red project under the same 2019 contract.

However, Ley found a significant discrepancy in TriMet’s current demands for the IBR project. “TriMet officials have been telling the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program the cost for 19 new vehicles they demand will be between $190 million and $290 million, or $10 million to $15 million each,” Ley emphasized the need for transparency. “They’re demanding 19 new vehicles at a price that’s more than double what they paid just a few years ago—taxpayers deserve transparency.” 

The IBR program itself has seen significant cost escalations. In December 2022, IBR Administrator Greg Johnson updated the project’s cost estimates to a range of $5 billion to $7.5 billion, targeting $6 billion, with the transit component’s high-end cost reaching $2 billion. As part of this, TriMet is demanding Clark County contribute annually to support operations and maintenance for a 1.8-mile MAX Yellow Line extension into Vancouver, alongside the 19 additional light rail vehicles. Ley argues these vehicles are unnecessary for the short extension. 

TriMet’s financial stability and ridership trends further fuel Ley’s concerns. The MAX Yellow Line recorded only 10,611 weekday riders in 2024—70% below the projected 35,320 by 2020. System-wide, TriMet provided 62.3 million boardings in fiscal year 2024, a 29.7% decline since 2014, with MAX light rail ridership dropping 37.7%. The agency reported an $850 million operating loss last year, prompting warnings of a “fiscal cliff” by 2031 without significant bailouts. “Committing Clark County taxpayers to a struggling transit system with questionable financial management is a risky proposition,” Ley cautioned.

Rep. Ley urges the C-TRAN Board and Washington legislators to reconsider long-term financial agreements with TriMet, especially as the Oregon Legislature faces a multi-billion-dollar shortfall for transportation projects. He advocates for prioritizing a third Columbia River bridge, conducting and independent study on an Immersed Tube Tunnel, or replacing the light rail component with cost-effective bus rapid transit to better serve the regions needs.

About John Ley

John Ley is a Washington State Representative serving the 18th Legislative District. A vocal advocate for fiscal responsibility and efficient transportation solutions, Ley focuses on protecting Clark County taxpayers from costly and unsustainable projects.  
 

About Neighbors for a Better Crossing

A grassroots coalition of concerned residents and businesses from Oregon and Washington, united in advocating for an Immersed Tube Tunnel (ITT)—an innovative solution that will save billions in taxpayer dollars, eliminate the need for tolls, safeguard the Columbia River’s delicate ecosystem and marine life, and preserve the historic I-5 Bridge as a car-free gateway for tourism, pedestrians and cyclists between Oregon and Washington. We are urging legislators to convene an independent commission to evaluate the ITT alternative before locking taxpayers into a $9 billion+ financial disaster.

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Registration is open; register by June 27

This summer, Portland’s Safe Blocks program is helping neighbors host parties in their neighborhoods through the Party On, Portland! event from August 1 through August 14. These parties are a great way to meet your neighbors, discover local resources, strengthen community bonds, and celebrate safety and unity.

Interested in hosting a party? Register by June 27 at https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/pop. You can get a free permit to close off your street, receive a free noise variance, have Portland safety partners visit your party, and much more!

Questions? Contact Safe Blocks at safeblocksprogram@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-4064.

If you are looking to host an event with Night Out for Safety and Liberation or another national organization, please register through those organizations.

The motorcyclist killed in a crash on May 13, 2025, has been identified as David A. Dahlen, 55, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death.

Anyone with information about this crash, who has not spoken with police, is asked to contact imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attention Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 25-125041.

This is the ninth traffic-related fatality of 2025.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A motorcyclist is deceased following a crash in Southeast Portland.

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

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

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

###PPB###

Advanced Precision Anodizing is committed to the safety and health of its employees, so much so that the Wood Village company has completed its first year in Oregon OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP).

SHARP, primarily set up to help small- and mid-sized employers, coaches employers on how to effectively manage workplace safety and health. The program encourages Oregon employers to work with their employees to identify and correct hazards and to continuously improve. In turn, companies are recognized for their success in reaching specific benchmarks during the five-year program. An employer may graduate from SHARP after five years of participation.

Advanced Precision Anodizing is a family-owned business that provides protective and decorative finishing services, including anodize, chromate, passivate, bead blast, graining, and laser marking. With guidance from Oregon OSHA consultants, the company has achieved first-year SHARP status, a reflection of its dedication to going beyond minimum safety and health requirements, involving its employees in safety and health decisions, and building a culture of safety and health – among other improvements.

Advanced Precision Anodizing joined SHARP with a focus on growing its safety and health program and with a history of improvement: The company experienced zero injuries from 2022 to 2024. The company celebrated its first-year SHARP award in April.

“Our company is excited to be part of the SHARP program,” said Adriana Baehr, environmental chemist and environment, health, and safety manager for Advanced Precision Anodizing. “Keeping our employees safe is our top priority. When employees know they will go home safe to their families at the end of every work shift, we become more successful overall. It is good for employees, and it is good for management.”

The benefits of the SHARP program, which is part of Oregon OSHA’s free consultation services, include lower injury and illness rates, decreased workers’ compensation costs, increased employee morale, lower product losses, and community recognition.

Learn more about SHARP and Oregon OSHA’s free consultation services, which include hazard assessments, recommendations to control and eliminate hazards, written program evaluations, and hands-on training. Consultations involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties. Oregon OSHA consultants in workplace safety, industrial hygiene, and ergonomics can help employers reduce accidents and related costs and develop comprehensive programs to manage safety and health.

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

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem has initiated an investigation into the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) at the Salem-Willamette Valley Airport, including locations that have historically been used for firefighting foam testing and training, like the Salem Fire Department’s Station 6 on-site training area. This investigation was prompted by the discovery of PFAS in the soil at development site on the south end of the Airport property.

These proactive measures to better understand the risk and exposure in these areas will help the City take steps to further ensure the safety, health and well-being of Fire Department staff, as well as Airport employees, tenants and prospective developers.

“We remain fully committed to working collaboratively and transparently with all stakeholders as we come to better understand what we're dealing with on the Airport property,” said Interim City Manager, Krishna Namburi. “Protecting public health and supporting our firefighters, our airport tenants and the broader community remains our top priority. Together, we will move forward responsibly and do what’s right.”

Next Steps: Soil and Groundwater Samples to Learn More

To better understand the presence of PFAS at the Airport, including at the Fire Station 6 training area, over the coming months, the City plans to:

• Test soil and groundwater samples taken from areas where firefighting foam was used
• Evaluate potential exposure risks to Fire Department and Airport personnel
• Assess possible environmental impacts, potential risks to human health and the environment associated with any identified impacts, and appropriate measures to address those potential risks
• Update City Council, the Fire Department and firefighters, the Airport Advisory Commission and Airport tenants, and developers of new airport projects through regular communications
• Communicate with our community through City channels such as social media, CityofSalem.net, the newsletter, and Council meetings and media
• Coordinate with regulatory authorities to appropriately respond to the investigation’s findings as DEQ and the EPA continue to develop PFAS regulations

PFAS in Aircraft Firefighting

PFAS are used in many commercial products designed to resist heat, water and oil, such as water-resistant clothing, food packaging and nonstick cookware. The Federal Aviation Administration has required the use of aqueous film-forming foam — also called fire-fighting foam — a PFAS-containing substance, in mandated training and testing. Until Sept. 27, 2024, the Salem Fire Department used this foam during its required training exercises at the Airport, particularly at the Salem Fire Department’s Station 6 training area.

The City will continue to share information about its investigation into the use of PFAS at the Airport. For more information, visit the City’s PFAS webpage.

Opening day to feature launch of new “Full Basket” program, singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen, children’s activities & more

Portland, Oregon, May 20, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market opens for the season this Saturday, May 24 at its NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location, 9 am-1 pm.

The market will feature more than 20 vendors, educational programming and an exciting new community-care initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market. Rocky Butte is the first market of the season to launch Full Basket.
 

The new program is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

Opening Day will Feature:

• Live Music by popular local singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen: https://www.brennalarsenmusic.com/
   

• Community Educator Caitlyn Whitcomb will launch the season’s Kids’ Booth activities. Early birds have the best chance of getting a $5 kids token to spend at the market.
   

• Roseway Prepares will be spreading awareness of NET (Neighborhood Emergency Team) at the market’s non-profit booth.
   

• A representative from Multnomah County will be at the market to distribute free Narcan and provide training/answer questions. (https://multco.us/info/overdose-prevention)

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit thanks to Double Up Food Bucks;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike can receive a $5tokens, thanks to the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors to donate directly to Mainspring Pantry. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce and handmade baked goods within the community to ensure that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 am-1 pm through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.
 

2025 Vendor List: 

• Bioenergeteic Balance

• Bread Box

• Delectable Delights

• Fresh Love

• Joyful Sudz

• Klay Arsenault Art & Illustration

• La Comelona Foods

• Mainspring

• Modern Medicinals CBD

• Mr Baklava

• New Deal Distillery

• Oil Slick Coffee

• OneUp Farm

• Pablo Munoz Farms

• Parkrose Greenhouse

• Ripe Fig Farm

• Rowen Forest

• Simpson’s Refill Co.

• Sweetpea’s

• Tres Angelitos y un Colibrí

• TT’s Bakehouse

• Vozee Custom Leather & Dye

• Whisper of Essence

​

Plus more at the community table!

• Vorfreude Dairy Beef

• Under the Pines GF Bread

• Local produce

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Detrash Portland, sponsored by CareOregon

When: Wednesday, May 21, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: 315 SW 5th Ave Portland, OR 97204| Map Link

Event Description: Join SOLVE for a community-driven initiative to prepare Downtown Portland and the SW Waterfront for the annual Rose Festival. Together with CareOregon and the Portland Rose Festival Foundation, volunteers will beautify our public spaces, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for festival visitors, and make a positive impact during one of the city’s most cherished events.

Why: Portland's business districts are the heartbeat of our city and keeping them clean is vital to our economy and the environment. Litter poses a significant threat to our community's well-being, affecting the aesthetics and overall health of our streets, neighborhoods, and waterways. SOLVE's mission is to create opportunities for individuals and businesses to give back to their communities and play a critical role in maintaining the beauty and integrity of our city from the harmful effects of trash. Together, we can create a cleaner, more inviting downtown that reflects our pride in the city and care for our community.

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am outside of the CareOregon offices on 5th Ave to see approximately 100 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 10 am to 12 pm, with volunteers expected to spread throughout the Downtown area and the SW Waterfront.

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

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Kayleen VanDuzer, Senior Community Impact and Events Specialist, CareOregon

Detrash Portland 2025 is presented by The Standard, Fed Meyer, CareOregon, Miller Nash, Swire Coca Cola, and Dunn Carney.

Visit the Detrash Portland page on the SOLVE website or the event registration page for more information.

About SOLVE:

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

CCHM Speaker Series Explores the National Legacy of Fort Vancouver

Special Event Features Curator Meagan Huff at Fort Vancouver Visitor Center – June 5, 2025

VANCOUVER, WA — The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is proud to present a special edition of its Speaker Series, "Fort Vancouver and the Story of America," on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center (1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public, though seating is limited and pre-registration is encouraged.

This compelling evening will be led by Meagan Huff, museum curator at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and a longtime Vancouver resident. Huff will delve into the rich and evolving history of Fort Vancouver, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most significant historical sites. From its beginnings as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post to its modern role as a National Park Service landmark, Fort Vancouver tells a story that reflects the broader American experience.

The presentation will highlight:

• The founding and historical significance of Fort Vancouver
   

• Archaeological discoveries that shed new light on the site’s past
   

• The fort’s role in the broader national narrative of colonialism, migration, and military presence
   

• How our understanding and interpretation of the site have evolved over time
   

Huff has served in museum collections management at Fort Vancouver since 2010. She holds degrees in History, Art History, and Museum Studies from the University of Washington and brings both academic expertise and personal passion to her work.

This special installment of the CCHM Speaker Series is made possible by the generous support of the Historic Preservation Commission, Pomeroy Living History Farm, and Vancouver Sign.

For more information and to pre-register, please visit www.cchmuseum.org or contact Sammuel Hawkins at Outreach@cchmuseum.org or 360-993-5679.

About the Clark County Historical Museum
The Clark County Historical Museum has served the region since 1964, dedicated to gathering, preserving, and sharing the stories of Clark County and the Pacific Northwest. Through exhibits, public programs, and community partnerships, CCHM fosters a deeper understanding of our shared heritage.

Media Release Update: Two Charged Related to Shooting in Bethany Neighborhood

On May 14, 2025, just before 9:45 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a home in the 7100 block of NW Abigail Terrace in the Bethany community. Multiple people called 911 to report a man had been shot in the face and was in the street.

Deputies were on scene quickly and located the victim nearby and began giving him immediate medical care. Other deputies surrounded the house and the suspect came out, still holding a gun. The man obeyed orders to drop the gun, and deputies arrested him.

Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene. The shooting suspect was identified as 26-year-old Oliver Bracey, who lived at the home.

The bullet struck the victim, a 35-year-old man, in his cheek and exited behind his ear. He was taken to Emanuel Hospital for medical treatment.

Deputies also detained another person who came out of the house, 30-year-old Ella Juarez-Farina. Deputies learned there were four children inside the home at the time of the shooting and another child outside.

Detectives determined Juarez-Farina and Bracey both had guns and threatened the victim. Bracey then shot the man in the face. Prior to the shooting, Juarez-Farina assaulted and strangled the victim. She also assaulted and strangled one of the children inside the home.

On May 19, 2025, a Washington County grand jury heard evidence in this case and indicted Bracey on the following charges:

• Attempted murder in the second degree with a firearm
• Assault in the first degree
• Two counts of unlawful use of a weapon

Juarez-Farina was indicted on the following charges:

• Assault in the second degree
• Three counts of assault in the fourth degree (felony, domestic violence)
• Criminal mistreatment in the first degree
• Three counts of strangulation (domestic violence)
• Five counts of unlawful use of a weapon

If you have information about any of the involved people, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700.

Deputies Respond to Shooting in Bethany Neighborhood (Photo)

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

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

The shooter surrendered to deputies without incident.

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

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

MEDFORD, Ore.— Saul Uriel Nunez-Vega, 24, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Jackson County, Oregon, pleaded guilty today for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, on November 14, 2023, law enforcement responded to an attempted kidnapping and shooting in White City, Oregon, where they recovered a firearm. Surveillance footage showed Nunez-Vega in the area before the shooting occurred and investigators learned that he possessed the firearm prior to its use in the shooting.

On December 15, 2023, Nunez-Vega was charged by criminal complaint with illegally possessing a firearm.   

Nunez-Vega faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 13, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

# # #

DALLAS (OR) – Matthew Alan Luker, 50, has been sentenced to serve 38 months in prison for breaking into a residence outside of Dallas and killing a domesticated goat belonging to the property owners last October.

Luker, of Sheridan, was sentenced today by Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso, after a trial held on May 5, in which he was found guilty of Burglary in the First Degree and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. Luker had previously entered guilty pleas to Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree and Criminal Mischief in the First Degree..

Judge Caso sentenced Luker to consecutive sentences on the Burglary and Animal Abuse charges, specifically finding that Luker had shown “no remorse” for his actions. Luker will also be required to serve a three year term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

Columbia County, Ore. 19 May 2025- On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 9:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 30, near milepost 22, in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Dodge Nitro, operated by Gary E Fowler (70) of Deer Island, was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck the rear of a westbound Lexus R330, operated by Angela Michelle Kornhauser (43) of St. Helens. The collision caused the Lexus to leave the roadway and roll before coming to rest on the adjacent railroad tracks.

The operator of the Lexus (Kornhauser), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The passenger of the Lexus, Christopher Michael Casillas (37) of Everett (WA), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected during the roll event and declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Fowler) suffered minor injuries and was cleared medically from a local medical center. Fowler was lodged in the Columbia County jail for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Manslaughter I, Assault III, and Reckless Endangering.

The highway was impacted for approximately seven hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed and operator impairement are considered the primary contributors to the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Scappoose Police 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.  - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for forecasted population, housing and employment needs through 2045. Selection of a preferred land use alternative is the next step in the update process.

Clark County is holding four open houses to share and discuss the three different land use alternatives being considered. Some of the proposed changes include changes to zoning designations, modifications to development regulations, and some small expansions to Urban Growth Areas (where urban growth is encouraged). The county encourages the public to attend an open house to learn about the county’s ongoing effort to plan for an additional 190,754 people and 88,100 jobs by 2045.

All in-person open houses are 7-8:30 p.m. Staff will be available to answer questions, provide information, and receive comments.

• May 26 – June 30: Online, self-paced option at https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate (available beginning May 26, 2025)
• May 28: Ridgefield High School Commons, 2630 S Hillhurst Road
• May 29: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary School, 8408 NE 25^th Ave.
• June 2: Vancouver iTech Preparatory School, 16100 NE 50^th Ave.

Translation services may be available upon request. Request must be sent to comp.plan@clark.wa.gov by 5-22-25.

Los servicios de traducción pueden estar disponibles si los solicita. Se debe enviar la solicitud a comp.plan@clark.wa.gov antes del 5-22-25.

Услуга письменного перевода может быть предоставлена по запросу. Запрос необходимо направить на адрес comp.plan@clark.wa.gov до 22.05.25.

可应要求提供翻译服务。 请求必须在 2025 年 5 月 22 日之前发送至 comp.plan@clark.wa.gov

Comments can be submitted in the following ways:

• At an open house
• On the county website: https://bit.ly/2025CPComments
• By email: comp.plan@clark.wa.gov
• By mail: Community Planning, Comprehensive Plan Update, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810

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

A few weeks ago, the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) learned that the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office, led by District Attorney Steve Gunnels, had conducted a lengthy investigation into issues involving the truthfulness of Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp.  The investigation found that Sheriff van der Kamp had been untruthful about his educational credentials in multiple criminal cases.  As a result of this investigation, DA Gunnels determined that the DA’s office would no longer use Sheriff van der Kamp as a witness in any criminal trial – a status commonly referred to as being placed on the Brady list.

Upon learning of this information, the OSSA Executive Committee met and determined that, under the OSSA Bylaws, the Board of Directors should decide whether to temporarily suspend or permanently revoke Sheriff van der Kamp’s position as a Director on the OSSA Board.  Sheriff van der Kamp was notified that this question would be presented to the OSSA Board at the Spring Conference, and that he would have an opportunity to address the Board before a decision was made. Sheriff van der Kamp did not appear to address the Board, nor did he submit any written materials for the Board to consider.

On May 14, the Board met and considered the issue.  A motion was made to permanently expel Sheriff van der Kamp from serving as an OSSA Director.  The motion passed unanimously, with 32 Oregon sheriffs voting on the issue. Sheriff van der Kamp was immediately expelled from the OSSA Board of Directors. 

About the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
The Oregon State Sheriffs' Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1916 to provide training and support to Oregon Sheriffs and their offices. 

Tim Svenson, Executive Director
503.364.4204 | tim@oregonsheriffs.org

Portland, Ore. — As wildfire season approaches, the Bureau of Land Management is increasing readiness and bolstering rural firefighting efforts by transferring surplus BLM fire engines to local cooperators. Through the Rural Fire Readiness program, these transfers aim to improve wildfire preparedness, strengthen interagency cooperation, and help protect vital community resources.

The RFR program provides eligible, local cooperators with essential firefighting resources, including training, tools, communications equipment, and vehicles. By supporting these cooperators, the BLM helps expand firefighting capacity across private, state, tribal, and federal lands, particularly in remote and high-risk areas.

By working together, these groups help protect homes and infrastructure that anchor rural communities, as well as important local resources, including grazing lands that support rural economies, recreational areas that draw tourism and outdoor enthusiasts, and critical wildlife habitat.

The BLM recently transferred engines to two departments:

• Lincoln County Fire District 8 (Spokane District) received a Type 6 engine, a nimble vehicle capable of accessing rugged terrain and quickly extinguishing small fires before they grow.
• Juniper Flats Rural Fire Protection District (Prineville District) received a Type 4 engine, ideal for extended attack operations and increased suppression capacity.

On the Juniper Flats transfer, Fire Chief for Juniper Flats RFPD, Eugene Walters, commented, “This engine will help control wildland fires in our community so they don’t become major fire events and will provide greater capabilities to protect local lives and property.”

Through continued collaboration and support, the BLM and its rural fire partners are helping ensure faster, more effective responses to wildfire threats across Oregon and Washington.

“We’re happy to see this truck go to a good partner.  We work on challenging incidents with Juniper Flats most every summer, I hope this truck gives them even more capacity,” said James Purswell, Assistant Fire Management Officer-Preparedness.

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kathryn Howard
Phone: 503.902.8550
Email: Kathryn@portlandfruit.org
Website: https://www.lifturbanportland.org/pledge-crop

Local Campaign Urges Gardeners to Fill the Gap as Federal Food Aid Declines

Portland, OR — [5.19.25] — As federal USDA funding cuts threaten nearly 20% of the food supply distributed through the Oregon Food Bank, a new community-driven campaign is calling on Portland-area residents to step up — from backyard gardeners to fruit tree owners. The Grow to Donate initiative seeks to address food insecurity by encouraging people to pledge their excess harvests to local hunger relief organizations.

“The food I receive from Preston’s Pantry significantly eases our budget… I prefer it because of the fresh fruits and vegetables. I credit the nutritious food from Lift UP with supporting my healing journey,” said Clara, a pantry client, emphasizing the impact of fresh, local produce on individual health and well-being.

The campaign is a collaborative response to federal cuts, which are already causing ripple effects throughout the region’s food assistance network. Grow to Donate is a low-barrier way for individuals to contribute meaningfully during the growing season.

Participating organizations that will benefit from produce donations include:

• William Temple House
   

• Trinity Episcopal Church
   

• PSU Student Pantry
   

• OHSU Student Pantry
   

• Urban Gleaners
   

• Community for Positive Aging
   

• Lift UP

• In partnership with Portland Fruit Tree Project and Black Food Sovereignty Coalition
   

How It Works:

• Gardeners and CSA Members: Anyone with a home garden, farm plot, or produce share can pledge to donate any excess produce this summer — no matter the amount. Early pledges help partner organizations plan and coordinate distribution.
   

• Fruit Tree, Vine, and Shrub Owners: Homeowners with more fruit than they can use are encouraged to connect with Portland Fruit Tree Project, which offers harvest support and ensures fruit reaches those who need it most.

• Don’t have a garden? Volunteer! Pick up/delivery drivers, harvesters, and community outreach volunteers will help expand the reach of this exciting project.
   

Organizers stress that even small contributions can make a big impact when pooled together across neighborhoods.

“We know the power of community in solving local challenges,” said [Spokesperson Name, Title, Organization]. “Grow to Donate is about turning gardens into solutions — fresh food into shared resilience.”- Stephanie Barr, Executive Director of Lift UP.

To make a pledge or learn more, visit https://www.lifturbanportland.org/pledge-crop.

A Blurb About the Campaign

Grow to Donate is a community-powered initiative responding to recent USDA food aid reductions. The campaign mobilizes local gardeners and fruit tree owners to help offset food insecurity by sharing surplus harvests with trusted nonprofit partners across Portland.

Media Inquiries and Interviews Available Upon Request.

In the early morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, Lincoln City Police Officers were dispatched to the area of SW 51st St and SW Ebb Ave on a report of a shooting that had just occurred. Upon arrival, officers located a male adult victim who had who had multiple apparent gunshot wounds. Personnel from North Lincoln Fire & Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance also responded and began providing medical treatment at the scene before transporting the victim to Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital. The victim was later transported to Salem Hospital for additional medical treatment and surgery. The victim’s current condition is unknown at this time.

The suspect in the shooting, identified as 43-year-old Justin R. Schmeidal of Lincoln City, remained on scene and self-reported the shooting before being taken into custody. Lincoln City Police Detectives responded to the scene and began their investigation into the circumstances involved with the shooting. The handgun believed to be used was recovered, and there is currently no further danger to the public as a result of this incident.

Schmeidal was subsequently transported to the Lincoln City Police Department and later transported to the Lincoln County Jail where he was lodged on charges of Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Pointing a Firearm at Another. Additional charges may be considered.

LCPD would like to express our thanks to North Lincoln Fire Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance for their assistance in this incident.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to please contact Detective Lane or Detective Goodman at 541-994-3636.

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

At the end of the Regular Session meeting the Board will meet in Executive Session under ORS 192.600(2)(d) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to carry on labor negotiations.

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

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) continues to actively investigate the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m., the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Dr., reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial information indicated that a woman, described as a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long sleeve black shirt, shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, somewhere south of Lakeside Dr. and north of the city of Monroe. Both individuals have not yet been located, but investigators believe they have left the area.

As a precaution, an emergency notification was issued to residents in the area, advising them to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. The public was also cautioned not to pick up hitchhikers in the vicinity.

The male victim was transported by the Corvallis Fire Department to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, where he continues to receive treatment for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

There are no new developments to report at this time. BCSO personnel continue to investigate the incident, and updates will be provided as they become available.

BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, and Linn County Sheriff's Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-573-8477 (TIPS).

###

The suspect in a homicide in Old Town has been arrested.

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Central Precinct officers and Homicide detectives arrested 55-year-old Sean B. Gunton in connection to the shooting death of Froilan Ortiz. The victim’s family has been notified of the arrest. Gunton was transported to the Multnomah County Detention Center and lodged on the following charges: Murder in the Second Degree, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Anyone with information about this case, who has not spoken with police, is asked to contact Detective Calvin Goldring at ing@police.portlandoregon.gov">calvin.goldring@police.portlandoregon.gov , 503-823-0256; or Detective Eric McDaniel at ic.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov">eric.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov 503-823-0833. Please reference case number 25-122918.

###PPB###

Original Messages Below

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

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

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

###PPB###

Original Message Below

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

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

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

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

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

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

###PPB###

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is proud to announce the return of its annual Veteran Benefit Expo, the state’s largest veteran resource event, on June 16th at the Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St. NE.

This marks the first in-person Expo since 2019 and will also feature a special 80th Anniversary Celebration of ODVA beginning at 10 a.m.

Organized by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs and presented in partnership with the Oregon Lottery and the Oregon Military Department, the Veteran Benefit Expo is a one-of-a-kind event and a one-stop shop for Oregon veterans of all eras and walks of life to learn about and access the full range of their earned benefits and local resources.

More than 65 participating agencies, nonprofits and service providers will be on hand to provide in-depth information and direct services across a wide range of benefit areas, including health care, disability claims assistance, housing, emergency assistance, long-term care, mental health, education, business, recreation and more.

“We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of ODVA by doing what we’ve always done: showing up for Oregon veterans and their families,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels. “The Veteran Benefit Expo is more than an event — it is the heart of our mission brought to life: bringing vital resources and earned benefits into the communities where veterans live and work, and making sure they know they’re seen, valued, and supported.”

This year’s Expo will also celebrate ODVA’s eight decades of service to Oregon’s veteran community, kicking off with the 80th Anniversary Ceremony at 10 a.m. on the Armory Auditorium stage, which will be immediately followed by a cake cutting and the opening of the Expo. The public is invited to attend.

Space is limited, but there are still openings for state or local organizations who provide direct benefits to veterans and who are interested in being an exhibitor at this year’s Expo. Registration is free but is subject to approval by ODVA based on space and other considerations. To register, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/orvetexpo25vendors.

The Veteran Benefit Expo was first held in 2015 at the Salem Convention Center in honor of ODVA’s 70th anniversary and has grown to become the agency’s signature outreach event, drawing an estimated 500 to 600 veterans each year. Since its inception, the Expo has traveled to different regions of the state, with plans to continue rotating in future years to ensure broad access to benefits by the state’s diverse veteran population.

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

For Media Only: Media partners are welcome to attend and cover or conduct interviews before or after the 80th Anniversary Ceremony or during the Expo. For assistance, please contact Tyler Francke at tyler.francke@odva.oregon.gov or 971-239-6640.

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Portland, OR — On April 19, nearly 230 middle and high school students gathered at Willamette University in Salem for the 2025 Oregon History Day competition. Students traveled from Ashland, Jacksonville, John Day, Portland, Beaverton, Creswell, Grants Pass, Mount Vernon, and other cities across the state to present their documentaries, exhibits, papers, performances, and websites inspired by the annual theme, Rights and Responsibilities in History.

After having their projects evaluated by volunteer judges, 47 students qualified for the National Contest, which will take place June 8–12 at the University of Maryland. These Oregon students will join 3,000 competitors from across the nation at this annual celebration of student scholarship.During this trip, Oregon students will have the opportunity to explore museums and historic sites around Washington, D.C., including a special tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon hosted by Mary Lang Bishop. They will also meet with Oregon senator Jeff Merkley and take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building with Senator Ron Wyden’s staff.

Oregon History Day, the statewide affiliate of the National History Day® program, is a student-directed, project-based, interdisciplinary learning program. Creating projects inspired by an annual theme, young historians in grades 6–12 choose topics to explore, conduct historical research, practice critical thinking skills, and analyze primary and secondary sources while considering diverse viewpoints.

Five projects were also awarded special prizes at Oregon History Day for their outstanding research on overlooked histories across Oregon. Award-winning projects include:

Asian History in Oregon Award 
Unearthing the Forgotten: The Erasure and Remembrance of Block 14 (Senior Group Documentary)
Derica T. and Lucas Z., Lincoln High School and Catlin Gabel, Portland

Black History in Oregon Award 
Nature and Society Versus Vanport (Junior Group Exhibit)
Gabriella K. and Lyric L.G., ACCESS Academy, Portland

Indigenous History in Oregon Award 
The Chief and the Shaman: The Governance of the Kalapuya (Senior Individual Exhibit)
Keira B., Westview High School, Beaverton

Women’s History in Oregon Award 
The Struggle for Immigrant Rights: Failures and the Fight for Justice (Senior Group Website)
Aashritha A. and Yatee B., Westview High School, Beaverton

Maritime History Award 
The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972: The Right to Live Undisturbed and Our Responsibility to Protect Marine Mammals (Senior Individual Website)
Pranav R., Westview High School, Beaverton

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.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet in a special session on Friday, May 23, from 12:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (PT). This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/Board_agenda_5_23_2025.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

SALEM, Oregon— The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, May 27 to discuss governance structure and trail segment agreements.

The virtual meeting is open to the public and attendees can online via Microsoft Teams or by phone.

STIA was established to plan the development and maintenance of the proposed Salmonberry Trail.

The proposed tail is an 86-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range. More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

Join Online:

Platform: Microsoft Teams
Meeting ID: 274 742 371 743 9
Passcode: WK2So668
Phone conference ID: 503-446-4954, 887422481# (if dialing in)

To submit public comments for board members to review during the meeting, please send comments to Mike Cafferata at ata@odf.oregon.gov">mike.j.cafferata@odf.oregon.gov at least three days prior to the meeting.

Lincoln County, Ore 19 May 2025- On Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 4:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 26, in Lincoln County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota Camry, operated by Anthony Joel Estrada (37) of Toledo, crossed the centerline and struck an eastbound Ford F-250, operated by Rylee James Demarre (18) of Canby, head-on. 

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

The operator of the Ford (Demarre) and passengers, Dylan Joel Makana Kaopuiki (23) of Salem and Kener De Jesus-Ajanel (30) of Tumwater (WA), reportedly suffered minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment.

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

OSP was assisted by 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.

PGE Parks celebrates 75-years with a summer-long photo contest for park and campground guests

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts!  PGE’s Parks and Re-creation Photo Contest invites participants to travel back in time for a chance to win a free stay at a PGE park or campground and celebrate PGE’s 75-year history of preserving and protecting Oregon’s natural resources. Snap the best shot, and you could win!

Starting Memorial Day weekend, PGE campers and park goers can join the fun by recreating one of three vintage photos taken at PGE parks in the 1950s with one submission per person. While the photos capture a historic period of time, PGE campers and visitors are encouraged to use a creative, modern-day spin.

Participants have all summer to get involved. Three winners will be chosen after Labor Day and sent a certificate to waive the fee for a two-night consecutive stay at PGE’s Promontory Park in Estacada or Pelton Park in Madras during the 2026 camping season.

PGE is dedicated to protecting Oregon’s natural resources while producing clean renewable energy for PGE customers. Since the 1950’s, PGE has worked to preserve and protect Oregon’s natural beauty through its park and recreation operations with many PGE parks and campgrounds home to renewable hydropower resources.

“For more than 75 years, we’ve welcomed visitors from near and far to our campgrounds and parks,” said PGE senior parks education specialist, Dorothy Brown-Kwaiser. “Our Parks & Re-creation Photo Contest is a fun way to celebrate PGE’s long-standing history of protecting shared green spaces — and thank the millions of people who have visited over the decades.”

Participants can recreate the photo of their choice at any of PGE’s more than a dozen parks and campgrounds. From Round Butte Overlook Park's spectacular views of the Deschutes River Canyon and Perry South Campground’s easy access to Lake Billy Chinook in Central Oregon, to Promontory Park’s family-friendly campground near Portland, there’s a wide variety of locations to choose from.

Entries will be accepted from Monday, May 26, 2025, through Monday, September 1, 2025. Submissions must be made online at PortlandGeneral.com/photocontest.

For contest rules and to find a PGE park or campground near you, head to PortlandGeneral.com/photocontest.

PGE Parks and Campgrounds:

• Balancing Rocks Overlook
• Clackamas River Boater Access Sites
• Faraday Lake
• Lake Harriet
• Monty Campground
• Pelton Park & Wildlife Overlook
• Perry South Campground
• Promontory Park
• Round Butte Overlook Park
• Timber Park
• Timothy Lake
• Trojan Park
• Trout Creek Ranch

ST. HELENS, Ore. [May 19, 2025] — Columbia County Public Works will begin its 2025 pavement preservation season with a road widening and asphalt overlay project on Bennett Road to Hazen Road, starting this month.

The project area spans approximately 0.52 miles—from roughly 0.2 miles west of Bachelor Flat Road (just west of the newly installed box culvert) to Hazen Road at the intersection with Stone Road.

Preparatory work will continue throughout May. Paving operations are expected to begin in the first half of June, depending on weather conditions. The work will be performed by Columbia County road crews.

The road will remain open to the public throughout the project, but travelers should expect traffic control and occasional delays. There is no designated detour for this project.

A project map is available at: https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/media/Public Works/2025Bennett-HazenPavingMap.jpg.

This overlay is the first of several planned surface treatments that will improve the safety and durability of county roads this summer.

Columbia County thanks residents and travelers for their patience and cooperation during this important infrastructure improvement effort.

# # #

Salem, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) joins Oregon Department of Forestry and other local, statewide and national partners in recognizing May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

Campfires are a beloved tradition when visiting Oregon State Parks, and staff encourage visitors to enjoy them safely when and where permitted.

The first step is to check campfire restrictions before you head out. If campfires are allowed, please follow these safety tips and rangers’ instructions to reduce the risk of wildfires where campfires are allowed.

Seven tips for safe and enjoyable campfires:

1. Check campfire restrictions at Oregon State Parks as well as public fire restrictions statewide.
2. Only build campfires in the existing fire ring in your campsite. Fire rings are placed in areas with buffer zones and away from vegetation.
3. Maintain campfire flames at or below knee height (about 2 feet high) to reduce the risk of ash and embers drifting into the trees or dry vegetation.
4. Always keep water close by to safely put out campfires. Douse the flames with water and stir the embers to make sure everything is wet. The stirring step is important: ash and wood debris often maintain heat.
5. Build beach campfires only where permitted on open sand and away from driftwood or vegetation. Slowly pour water on your beach fire to put it out. Pouring water too quickly can cause hot sand to fly. Don’t use sand to put out a beach fire, which insulates the coals and keeps them hot enough to burn someone even days later. Learn more at beach fire rules at Oregon State Parks website.
6. For propane fire rings, use in areas without vegetation or overhanging branches. Rules for propane fire rings may vary depending on local conditions. Check with park staff.
7. Make sure everyone in your campsite is familiar with campfire safety, including children. Always keep an eye on your campfire; accidental fires can start even when campers leave their fire unattended for “just a minute.”

Campfire regulations are outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action?ruleVrsnRsn=322968

Education is the top priority for rule enforcement, but rangers also have the option of issuing a Class A violation for significant violations or for multiple violations with a presumptive fine of up to $400.

In addition, explosives and fireworks are not allowed in state parks or the ocean shore because they pose a danger to visitors, wildlife and the landscape. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas.

Resources:

• Oregon Department of Forestry’s wildfire information website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery: https://wildfire.oregon.gov/
• Department of Environmental Quality Oregon Smoke Information: https://www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Oregon Department of Transportation Tripcheck for road conditions: https://tripcheck.com/
• For breaking news and information, follow the Twitter accounts and Facebook pages for Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION
Northern Willamette Valley Nonprofits Share $643,000 to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

SALEM, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the Northern Willamette Valley’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $643,000 in the work of 24 Northern Willamette Valley organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact  

One of those nonprofits is the Marshallese Women's Education and Health Network, which provides bilingual help to immigrants from the 1,200 islands and islets of the Marshall Islands.

"We try to be a useful house where we help Marshallese women get the training and resources they need to succeed in the new world," said Josephine Hunter, Executive Director. "We want to help them get out of the shadows and get out of the margins."

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Capital Community Television

$15,000
Salem
Contact: Alan Bushong, Interim Executive Director, alan@ccmediasalem.org
https://www.capitalcommunitymedia.org/

Marshallese Women’s Education and Health Network
$40,000
Contact: Josephine Hunter, Executive Director/Board Chair
kannonjowwan@yahoo.com
https://www.mwehn.com/

Silverton Area Community Aid

$40,000

Contact: Sarah DeSantis, Executive Director, ah@silvertonareacommunityaid.org">sarah@silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Titus 3
Dallas
$40,000
Contact: Diana McGowan, President, titus3housedallas@gmail.com
https://titus3house.org/

Zero Waste McMinnville

McMinnville

$23,000

Contact: Ramsey McPhillips, President, owastemcminnville@gmail.com">zerowastemcminnville@gmail.com

https://www.zerowastemcminnville.com/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

  ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION
North Coast Nonprofits Share $242,112 to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

PORTLAND, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the North Coast’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $242,112 in the work of 14 North Coast organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact  

One of those nonprofits is Sande School of Horsemanship, which uses horses to teach life skills and provide therapeutic services.

“Our county has a severe shortage of mental health providers. This summer, we're completing a new mental health wing with space for two more full-time providers,” said Kassi Euwer, founder and Executive Director. “Oregon Community Foundation was the first funder to get on board with this expansion, leading the way for other foundations to support this important work.”

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Central Coast Food Web
Newport
$30,000
Contact: Jim King, Executive Director, jim@centralcoastfoodweb.org

https://centralcoastfoodweb.org/

Necanicum Watershed Council
Seaside
$20,000
Contact: Sarah Walker, Executive Operations Director,

ector@necanicumwatershed.org">executivedirector@necanicumwatershed.org
https://www.necanicumwatershed.org/

Sande School of Horsemanship
Warren
$19,887
Contact: Kassi Euwer, Executive Director, kassi@sandeschoolofhorsemanship.org
https://www.sandeschoolofhorsemanship.org/

WildFlower Play Collective
St Helens
$15,000
Contact: Emilia Ponti, Executive Director, playcollective@gmail.com">wildflowerplaycollective@gmail.com
https://www.wildflowerplaycollective.org/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

  ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION

Portland Area Nonprofits Share $2.5 Million to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

PORTLAND, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the Portland region’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $2.5 million in the work of 90 Metro Portland organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact

One of those nonprofits is El Jardín Recovery Centers, which received a $40,000 Community Grant.

“We work really hard to make sure that everyone who is seeking recovery can find it within a community that understands that intrinsic, deep part of them,” said Diana Aleman, Data and Development Manager. “It's easier for someone to start their recovery when they understand that the other person knows how they feel.”

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Black Community of Portland
Portland
$40,000
Contact: Michelle Yemaya Benton, Executive Director, myemaya@bcppdx.org

https://www.facebook.com/BCPpublic/ 

Ground Score Association
Portland
$40,000
Contact: Taylor Cass Talbott, Co-Director, taylor@groundscoreassociation.org

https://www.groundscoreassociation.org/

Sarah Bellum’s Bakery & Workshop
Portland
$30,000
Contact: Michelle Kinsella, Board Secretary, michellek@sarahbellumsbakery.org

https://www.sarahbellumsbakery.org/

Northwest Instituto Latino Addicciones (El Jardín Recovery Centers)
Portland and Hillsboro
$40,000
Contact: Sunny Briscoe, Deputy Director, riscoe@eljardinrecovery.org">sbriscoe@eljardinrecovery.org

https://www.eljardinrecovery.org/

Portland Tennis & Education
Portland
$30,000
Contact: Campbell Garonzik, Executive Director, ell@ptande.org">campbell@ptande.org

https://www.ptande.org/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

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Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval June 27, 2025.

Both meetings will be online via Zoom.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant Review Committee will meet May 28, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

The Preserving Oregon Grant Review Committee will meet June 3, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Clark’s first bachelor of science degree program begins fall 2025

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Clark College is offering a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science. The first cohort will start in fall 2025, with students graduating in spring 2027. 

Although Clark College offers five bachelor of applied science (BAS) degrees, this is Clark’s first bachelor of science (BS) degree. 

Clark College currently offers a two-year associate’s degree in computer science. Previously, graduates of Clark’s two-year program who wanted to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science had to transfer to a four-year institution. Beginning in fall 2025, computer science students can earn their associate’s degree followed by their bachelor’s degree entirely at Clark College. 

Graduates of this program will be qualified for a wide range of computer software development opportunities across many industries. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $105,990 in May 2024, which was more than double the median wage for all occupations, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [source]. Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow by 26% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations [source]. 

Izad Khormaee, director and professor of computer science at Clark College, explained how the new Bachelor of Science degree program will prepare graduates to step into a variety of fields in the computer industry. He said, “Our program focuses on preparing students to be productive on their first day of their career. Students may choose to specialize in Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Mobile Application Development and imbedded systems programming. Demand for graduates with a BS in computer science is growing. Our graduates will be prepared to enter promising careers offering excellent pay and enormous opportunity for growth.”

Background: During the 2020-2021 legislative session, Washington State legislators passed Substitute Senate HB 5401, which permits community and technical colleges to offer a bachelor of science in computer science degree, subject to approval by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. Clark is among a dozen Washington community colleges to offer a BS in computer science. The closest is South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia, which is 105 miles from Clark College. 

“Clark College always strives to meet local and regional industry needs. The industry of computer and information technology is growing exponentially, and is expected to continue growing,” Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards said. “Our Bachelor of Science degree in computer science will prepare students to assume current and future positions in this high-demand field.”

Learn more about Clark’s new BS in computer science here: https://www.clark.edu/academics/programs/dept/cse/

More about Clark College bachelor degrees: https://www.clark.edu/academics/degrees/bas.php

• Applied Management
• Cybersecurity
• Dental Hygiene
• Human Services
• Teacher Education

About Clark College 

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

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Yesterday, Saturday, May 17, 2025 at about 11:00pm Silverton and Woodburn Police arrested Kenneth Kolarsky, 58, of Portland who had an outstanding arrest warrant for felony hit and run which stemmed from a deadly incident that occurred in Woodburn on December 26, 2024.  See link for initial incident information: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AP32pBJjP/

Kolarsky, who is an employee at Silverton Hospital, was located outside the facility and arrested without incident. Kolarsky was transported and lodged at Marion County Jail.

Please contact Marion County District Attorney with questions on this case.  

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, at approximately 12:40 a.m., deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a person not breathing following a single-vehicle rollover crash in the 14900 block of NW Gillihan Road on Sauvie Island.

Upon arrival, deputies located a juvenile female who was deceased at the scene. She had been a passenger in a side-by-side utility task vehicle (UTV). The crash occurred on private property.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team responded to conduct a comprehensive investigation. As a result of their preliminary findings, the driver of the UTV, 18-year-old Ayden Heard, was taken into custody. Heard was initially transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Following his discharge, he was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on multiple offenses including Manslaughter in the Second Degree. Full booking information can be viewed here.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. No further details are available at this time.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT) consists of specially trained law enforcement members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. VCT investigates serious and fatal vehicle crashes and crimes in Gresham, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, Wood Village and unincorporated Multnomah County.

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

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

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

Interviews Available: 

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

Visuals:

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

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

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

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

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

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

On May 17th, 2025, at 9:12 p.m.  Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 4613 E. 18th St. #23.  The first fire unit arrived within 3 minutes of dispatch and found smoke coming from a two-story townhouse.   The fire was quickly knocked down within seven minutes of the first engine arriving and was called under control within 23 minutes.  Four fire engines, two ladder trucks, one squad and two battalion chiefs responded for a total of 26 personnel working on scene.  One person was transported to Peace Health Southwest by AMR. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office.  

During the last three months, the Portland Police Bureau continued directed patrol efforts along Northeast 82^nd Avenue and Northeast Sandy Boulevard in response to ongoing community complaints and observed nuisance and livability activity related to sex trafficking. These were collaborative efforts among the Human Trafficking Unit, East and North Precinct Priority Projects, Central Precinct, Detective Division, Special Resources Division, Victim Services Unit, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, Multnomah County Parole & Probation, and Safety Compass.  

 
The following individuals were arrested or cited for ORS 167.008 Commercial Sexual Solicitation (CSS) and/or Portland City Code 14A.40.50 Unlawful Prostitution Procurement Activities (UPPA), and any other noted crimes: 

Brian Aldous, 46, Salem, OR       

Abdo Alzukhri, 42, Portland, OR

Agustin Baltazard-Diego , 18, Gresham, OR          

Jonathan Berry, 29, Vancouver, WA       

Isaac Cid Rodriguez, 33, Vancouver, WA

Mario Cotoc-Sop, 21, Portland, OR         

Logan Escalante-Fellows, 25, Vancouver, WA     

Taylor Feiereisel, 37, Beaverton, OR       

Abner Francisco-Juan, 19, Gresham, OR

Teklebrhan Gebrehiwot, 32, Happy Valley, OR   

Jeffrey D. Hall, 40, Portland, OR

Jorge Hernandez Ramirez, 27, Gresham, OR       

Abdikadir Hussein, 27, Portland, OR (Additional firearm related charges)

Christopher Jacobs, 48, Portland, OR      

Bradley Juhl, 35, Portland, OR   

Dustin Larriva, 44, Portland, OR

Melquiades Lopez Mendoza, 43, Gresham, OR (Additional controlled substance related charges)

Abelardo Lopez Ramirez, 28, Portland, OR           

Adrian Martinez Rosales, 23, Vancouver, WA     

Jolied Mendez Daza, 57, Happy Valley, OR          

Guillermo Ochoa-Hernandez, 62, Vancouver, WA            

Pranay Parvathi, 29, Portland, OR           

Jesus Perea, 37, Portland, OR (Additional firearm related charges)

Kevin Perez-Chavez, 21, Aloha, OR          

James Peterson, 71, Woodland, WA       

Collin Rin, 25, Portland, OR        

Tarekegn Sheko, 26, Portland, OR           

Alexander Tarton-Jutzuy, 25, Beaverton, OR       

Marco Vazquez Martinez, 23, Clackamas, OR      

Clifford Whitlow, 58, Dundee, OR           

During this timeframe, six vehicles were towed, and additional information was gathered related to other suspected buyers, suspected traffickers, and ongoing trafficking investigations. Twenty-six providers were contacted and offered services through Officers or advocates. HTU continues to utilize the partnership of PPB’s Victim Services Unit and Safety Compass for street level outreach for provider contacts.

Safety Compass is a non-profit organization that offers advocacy services to individuals under the age of 25 who identify as survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Approximately 25 providers were contacted and offered assistance or connection to resources.

 
HTU cases are complex with several identified barriers such as repeated traumatic exposures, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation. The survivors in these cases are often reluctant to come forward, make a report, and/or continue through the criminal justice process. HTU continues to offer trauma-informed, victim-centered services, in conjunction with PPB Victim Services Unit advocates and community-based partnerships like Safety Compass.
 
If you know or suspect someone is being trafficked, please call 911, PPB’s non-emergency line 503-823-3333, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888. Non-emergency Portland related tips can also be reported to: afficking@police.portlandoregon.gov" target="_blank">humantrafficking@police.portlandoregon.gov.  

Last May, the Portland Police Bureau offered an episode of the Talking Beat features a discussion on the Human Trafficking Unit in Portland, emphasizing collaborative efforts to combat juvenile sex trafficking, support victims, and hold offenders accountable while prioritizing a victim-centered approach. You can listen to the podcast here.

You can subscribe to The Talking Beat Podcast here.

And in 2023, PPB debuted a video on the problem and devastating impacts of sex trafficking. Watch it here.

###PPB###

Armed Forces Day at Rees Training Center

HERMISTON, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard hosted an Armed Forces Day celebration on May 17, 2025, honoring current military members and veterans of the United States military during a community event held at the Rees Training Center near Hermiston, Oregon.

“The Oregon National Guard has a long history of supporting Armed Forces Day celebration,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon. “Being able to support events like these makes the Oregon National Guard the Service of Choice for Oregonians.”

This was the first time that the Oregon National Guard had hosted an Armed Forces Day celebration at the Rees Training Center. Activities include a vast array of static displays of military vehicles, local food and community vendors, a climbing wall, as well as music provided by the Hermiston High School Band.

Welcoming those in attendance to open the celebration was Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees, who served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Training, Readiness and Mobilization from 2014 to 2019, and as the Adjutant General of Oregon. He also served as the director of the Army National Guard and acting chief of the National Guard Bureau during his distinguished career.

In September of 2022, the Umatilla Chemical Depot was officially renamed the Raymond F. Rees Training Center in his honor and for his contributions to the Nation and State.

“This is certainly an opportunity to thank all our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen for their service,” Rees said. “I also want to thank the contributions of the Oregon Army and Air National Guard on this day, for their dedication and contributions to the security of the people of Oregon.”

Umatilla County Commissioner Cindy Timmons also gave opening remarks, saying, “I just want to ask you to have fun today and enjoy visiting the vendors and recruiting attractions.”

The annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match,’ took place from May 15 to 17 at the weapons ranges of the Rees Training Center, where the best marksmen in the Oregon Army and Air National Guard competed. Gronewold seized the opportunity to present the winners in each category during a late afternoon ceremony.

“Whether you're in the National Guard, active duty, or Reserves, when called upon, those who wear our nation’s uniform rise to the occasion and challenge,” Gronewold said.

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

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Released images:

250517-Z-CH590-1791: Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees delivers the opening remarks to welcome those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Rees, who served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Training, Readiness, and Mobilization from 2014 to 2019, also held the position of Adjutant General of Oregon. He further distinguished himself by serving as the director of the Army National Guard and acting chief of the National Guard Bureau during his esteemed career. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-1841: Umatilla County Commissioner Cindy Timmons delivers opening remarks to welcome those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-2140: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Gronewold described the history of Armed Forces Day and the responsibilities of those who currently serve in the military, as well as thanking those who have served in the past, during an afternoon awards ceremony for the annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match.’ (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-2172: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (back row, left), pauses for a group photo with those who won individual and team awards during an afternoon ceremony for the annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match,’ held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon on May 17, 2025. The TAG Match concluded on Armed Forces Day, and the winners were highlighted during the day’s events. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3692: Local food vendors serve lunch to those attending the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3713: An Oregon Army National Guard helicopter was just one of the many military static displays open to the public at the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3794: Oregon Army National Guard recruiters help kids enjoy a climbing wall while attending the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is actively investigating a shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

At approximately 5:30 a.m., the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Dr, reporting someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

The initial information is a woman described as a short Hispanic female with long hair, wearing a long sleeve black shirt, had shot a male in the vehicle.

The shooter is considered armed and was last seen running from the vehicle with another Hispanic female somewhere south of Lakeside Dr and north of the city of Monroe.  The female shooter and the other female have not been located at this time.

As a precaution, BCSO issued an emergency notification to residents in the immediate area, advising them to report any suspicious activity immediately. The public is cautioned not to pick up hitchhikers in the area.

First responders from the Corvallis Fire Department transported the male victim to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis. He is currently being treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Benton County Sheriff’s Office personnel continue to investigate this incident. Future updates may be provided as they become available.

Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips by calling 541-573-8477(TIPS).

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Portland, Oregon, May 17, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market returns for 2025 to its convenient NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location with more than 20 vendors, educational programming & food demos and an exciting new food-sharing initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market.
 

"Full Basket" is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

This initiative comes at a critical time as tariffs are driving up the cost of imported goods nationwide and with the potential for shortages looming, building community and increasing access to fresh, local food is more important than ever. This program will help take care of our Portland neighbors who need assistance through this uncertain period.

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit through the Double Up Food Bucks program;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike receive $5 shopping tokens, through the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors and donates it directly to Mainspring. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce within the community and ensures that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.
 

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 24 through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.

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

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

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

Creative Writing Festival Schedule:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Clark College 

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

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

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

Codia is suspected to be in the Portland area.

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

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

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Billy Henry, Founder & CEO – bhenry@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
805 Broadway St., Ste 750 • Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-448.7254 Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
media@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes Launches Spring Campaign to Celebrate 10 Years of Camp Spark

Gifts made May 19–31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $23,500

Vancouver, Washington — May 16, 2025 — Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) today announced the launch of its Spring Campaign to fund Camp Spark, a week-long developmental sports and life-skills program for children and teens who are blind or visually impaired in Washington and Oregon. Running May 19 – May 31, the campaign seeks to raise $80,000—enough to send 20 campers to this transformational experience. Early supporters have created a $23,500 matching pool, doubling every donation until the match is met.

Now in its 10th year, Camp Spark remains the only program of its kind in the country. Throughout the week, campers explore tandem cycling, beep baseball, swimming, track & field, and more, while also developing vital life skills like meal preparation, personal organization, and goal-setting. The program is grounded in the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), empowering participants to master orientation & mobility, self-advocacy, social interaction, independent living, and recreation—all in a supportive community of peers who share similar experiences.

“Camp Spark is where children and youth who are blind discover that their ambitions are limitless,” said Billy Henry, Founder & CEO of NWABA. “In just ten years, we’ve watched campers rise as confident leaders—heading to college, excelling in their careers, and thriving in every facet of life. Every gift to this campaign isn’t merely a donation; it’s the spark that ignites a lifetime of achievement.”

It costs approximately $4,000 to provide one camper with tuition-free access to Camp Spark, including specialized instruction from credentialed adaptive-physical-education professionals, accessible equipment, lodging, and nutritious meals. By removing financial barriers, NWABA ensures that every eligible child—regardless of income—can participate and thrive.

How to Give: From May 19 to May 31, visit nwaba.org/campspark to make a tax-deductible donation. All contributions will be matched until the $23,500 pool is fully claimed.

About NWABA: 
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that delivers more than 5,000 program and service interactions annually to children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For information: http://www.nwaba.org/campspark or

Contact: Billy Henry, Founder & CEO, henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org

Phone:  1-360-448-7254

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

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

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

• Anthony C. Hunter Jr.

  Age 20, 5’9” tall, 150 pounds

• Xavier Hirsch

  Age 20, 6’1” tall, 140 pounds

• Terrell Coy

  Age 16, 5’9” tall, 165 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

Detectives believe there may be more victims of these individuals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For wildfire prevention information see:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 Contact:
 Sydney Mead
 Downtown Portland Clean & Safe
 smead@portlandalliance.com | 503-358-5773
 www.BloomTourPDX.com

The Central City Comes Alive with Bloom Tour 2025:
A Floral Celebration of Art, Retail, and Community

Portland, OR – May 23, 2025 — Spring is in full bloom in Portland’s Central City as Bloom Tour 2025 officially launches with 47 large-scale floral and artistic installations and six special events designed to engage, inspire, and bring visitors to the heart of the city.

Produced by the Visit Downtown Campaign, the Bloom Tour is a creative placemaking initiative that unites local florists, artists, and small businesses to celebrate the season — and the city — through living art.

"This is the kind of distinctive event that truly showcases Portland's unique character," said Mark Wells, Executive Director for Downtown Portland Clean & Safe. "It simultaneously supports our local businesses, draws visitors downtown, and highlights our incredible creative talent through installations designed to captivate."

From dramatic window displays to elaborate sidewalk installations, each piece is created by a local artist or florist in collaboration with a downtown business. The Bloom Tour is in partnership with the Portland Rose Festival and is meant to be the retail expression of this iconic and celebrated festival. Installations are viewable from May 23 through June 8, 2025, offering plenty of time for locals and visitors alike to check out the Rose Festival offerings, and then explore, snap photos, and experience the magic of the Central City.

Signature Events Include:

• Bloom Tour Kickoff & Botanical Fashion Show – May 23 at 11:30 a.m. in Director Park
• Starlight Wine Walk – May 29 on SW Yamhill & Morrison
• Bloom Tour Bike Ride – Evening of May 29, with free flowers for riders
• Petal & Pose Spring Fashion Showcase – June 1 in Director Park
• Floral Finale Weekend – June 7–8 at featured venues citywide

Participating retailers are also offering special promotions and in-store activities.

A Bloom Tour Launch to Remember
 

The public is invited to kick off Bloom Tour 2025 with a spectacular celebration on Friday, May 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Director Park, hosted by the Pacific Northwest Florist Association and Downtown Portland Clean & Safe. The event will include remarks from community partners and a special appearance by Mayor Keith Wilson, followed by the crowning of the 2025 Bloom Tour Queen by 2024 Rose Festival Queen Kobi Flowers.

The highlight of the launch event is a live botanical couture fashion show featuring acclaimed artist Françoise Weeks’ interpretation of the Met Gala’s “Black Dandyism” theme. The catwalk will feature floral creations by local florists and designers, merging fresh florals with high fashion in a way only Portland can.

Attendees can enjoy music, mingle with designers, and capture incredible photos and video moments throughout the event. The first 100 guests will also receive a complimentary swag bag.

Visit. Share. Celebrate.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the full Bloom Tour map at www.BloomTourPDX.com, share photos on social media using #BloomTourPDX25, and enjoy special in-store promotions available only during the tour.

Whether you’re a long-time Portlander or a first-time visitor, there’s never been a more beautiful time to rediscover Downtown.

About Visit Downtown & Downtown Portland Clean & Safe
The Visit Downtown campaign is a partnership between the Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, the Portland Metro Chamber, and the City of Portland.  It is a year-round effort to support the vitality, safety, and vibrancy of Portland’s Central City through marketing, activations, and partnerships.

Downtown Portland Clean & Safe is a nonprofit working to enhance the downtown experience for all who live, work, and visit.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

PacifiCorp Opens Lewis River Recreation Sites for the 2025 Summer Season

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

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

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

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

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

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About PacifiCorp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

May 16, 2025

Media Contact:

Crystal Patterson, Corvallis Police Department

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

POLICE RESPOND TO SEVERAL CALLS INVOLVING THREATS OF VIOLENCE

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

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

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

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

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

May 16, 2025

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

Oregon overdose deaths are down, CDC data shows

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse

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

Opioid treatment programs

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

Residential treatment capacity

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

Behavioral Health Regional Networks (BHRNs)

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

Investment in the peer support services and system

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

About Oregon Health Authority:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

State Parks Day Events

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

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

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

About State Parks Day

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

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amity High School – 22 recipients
 

Cascade High School – 27 recipients
 

Central High School – 47 recipients
 

Dallas High School – 22 recipients
 

Dayton High School – 21 recipients
 

McKay High School – 32 recipients
 

McMinnville High School – 67 recipients
 

McNary High School – 88 recipients
 

North Salem High School – 43 recipients
 

Silverton High School – 34 recipients
 

South Salem High School – 50 recipients
 

Sprague High School – 48 recipients
 

Stayton High School – 23 recipients
 

West Salem High School – 65 recipients
 

Woodburn High School – 24 recipients

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Battle Ground High School's theater program is excited to present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s musical "Cinderella” for their final production of the year.

"This show is a labor of love and our cast has poured many hours into learning the songs and choreography," said Liz Hix, director and language arts teacher. "I'm also excited about our set. I'm hoping the simplicity of it will capture the magic and nostalgia of listening to a bedtime story."

"I think it's just so magical, and it's gonna really come together," said Lyric Hawkins, a senior participating in the production. "When everyone dances together, it becomes so beautiful," agreed fellow senior Atlas Arnold, a flower girl and ensemble cast member.

"Cinderella" tells the story of a young woman who lives a life of servitude under her stepmother and stepsisters until the king announces a royal ball to find a wife for the prince. With the help of her fairy godmother and animal friends, Cinderella charms the prince, leaving behind a glass slipper as she flees at midnight.

"I think they're gonna be enticed by the magic that we're bringing into it,” said freshman Josh Postupak, who plays The Herald. “And I hope my role gives them lots of laughs." Postupak is a veteran of more than a dozen productions at Chief Umtuch Middle School and Journey Theater group.

Showtimes will be 7 p.m. on Friday, May 23 and 30, and 2:30 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 24 and 31. Tickets are $10 for general admission or $7 for students, available online in advance at https://wa-battleground-lite.intouchreceipting.com/BGDrama or at the door. Performances will be in The Lair at Battle Ground High School, 300 W. Main St., Battle Ground.

Vancouver, WA – Pink Lemonade Project will bring together 650 healthcare and business leaders, community members, and elected officials to celebrate 15 years of education, empowerment, and support for people affected by breast cancer across SW Washington and Oregon.

Today, one in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the Northwest. Pink Lemonade Program began with a dream, a lot of passion, and a small group of founders led by local physicians, Drs. Allen and Cassie Gabriel. Starting with one program called Revive Retreats for women following a breast cancer diagnosis, this program provided emotional healing, an opportunity to build a new community, and offered hope and resilience. Today, Pink Lemonade Project offers a full continuum of care before, during, and after a diagnosis.

“There is very troubling data in breast cancer this year. 2025 projections place the Oregon screening rate at 65 percent – the bottom half of ALL states, and the Washington screening rate at 63 percent – the bottom quarter. And new breast cancer diagnoses are increasing for women under the recommended age of 40,” said Susan Stearns, Chief Executive Officer.

The gala event will highlight Pink Lemonade Project’s humble beginning, the major growth across programs and services over the past few years, and their plans for the next 15 years. “The needs have never been greater than today. We are expanding community and healthcare partnerships to increase screening rates, expand access to survivorship support, and improve quality of life,” said Susan Stearns, Chief Executive Officer.

“The Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Cowlitz Tribal Foundation, and ilani are proud to prioritize support to social service organizations, like Pink Lemonade Project, that provide basic needs and a safety net for the vulnerable individuals and communities. Pink Lemonade Project’s programs close the gaps for individuals affected by breast cancer before, during, and after a cancer diagnosis with educational, financial, and psychological support for those walking through their cancer journey with their caregivers and families,” says Kara Fox-LaRose, President & General Manager, ilani.

“There is no time to waste in reversing these disturbing trends facing breast cancer communities across 42 counties we serve in SW Washington and Oregon. We must come together to work on what’s facing breast cancer patients today and beyond,” said Stearns.

The event has a big fundraising goal, and activities will include a raffle, silent and live auctions, dinner and drinks, a dessert dash, a performance by a quartet from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and a story about a breast cancer patient diagnosed at the age of 26.

The event, on Saturday, May 17, at 6 p.m. in Ridgefield, Washington, is presented by Taylor Transport and hosted by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, ilani Casino Resort, and the Cowlitz Tribal Foundation.

About Pink Lemonade Project

Pink Lemonade Project (PLP), founded in 2010 by Drs. Allen and Cassie Gabriel, was created to educate, empower, and support people affected by breast cancer. Its first program, Revive Retreats, served 40 people in the initial year. In 2024, PLP helped improve the lives of 4,226 people across SW Washington and Oregon who have been impacted by breast cancer, a 32% increase from 2023. PLP offers community education/outreach, retreats, screening/mammograms, financial aid, Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer series, Pink Peer Mentors, virtual/in-person education programs, fitness activities, support groups, and more. Learn more at pinklemonadeproject.org.

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The original release indicated a typo for charges

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

###30###

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

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

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

PRESS RELEASE 2

A25-10969

SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

MAY 15, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 15, 2025

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

Mental Health Awareness Month Spotlight: Loneliness line supports seniors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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May 15, 2025

For Immediate Release                                   For  more information:

                                                                                            James Taylor

james@vanportjazzfestival.ccsend.com

Tickets on sale for Portland’s Vanport Jazz Festival!                                                                   

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 15, 2025

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

Oregon reports record-high nonmedical vaccine exemptions for kindergartners

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vaccination resources for families: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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A Family-Friendly Evening Honoring Lions Keeping the Promise
Early Bird Tickets Available Through July 1

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. — May 14, 2025 — The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) invites families, friends, and community partners to the KTP Summer Soiree: A 100th Celebration of Lions Keeping the Promise, a joyful, family-friendly event taking place Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 PM at The Aerie at Eagle’s Landing in Happy Valley (10220 SE Causey Avenue).

This milestone celebration honors 100 years of service by Lions Clubs across Oregon, and is designed to be a fun, relaxed evening for all ages. Guests will enjoy mini golf, delicious finger foods, refreshing drinks, and engaging activities while learning about the powerful work OLSHF does to support sight and hearing for Oregonians in need. Guests are invited to explore OLSHF’s programs by connecting directly with the program directors, staff, and volunteers who bring them to life.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or discovering the Foundation for the first time, the Summer Soiree is the perfect opportunity to:

• Celebrate the Lions' century of service with fellow community members

• Learn about OLSHF’s impactful programs, such as the School Vision Screening (SVS) Program, Lions Eyeglass Assistance Program (LEAP), ROAR! Hearing Assistance Program, Patient Care Program, and more!

• Discover fun, easy ways to get involved and help Keep the Promise of better sight and hearing

“This event is for everyone — families, friends, Lions, and future OLSHF supporters,” said Kate Mayne, OLSHF’s Marketing & Events Manager. “It’s a chance to celebrate, connect, and make a difference in a joyful, welcoming environment.”

Early bird tickets are available through July 1, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special evening at a discounted rate!

 Get tickets and event details here (olshf.org/ktp-summer-soiree)

About Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation
Since 1959, OLSHF has been transforming lives by providing access to vital sight and hearing services for Oregonians in need. Powered by volunteers, donors, and partners, OLSHF proudly carries forward the Lions’ century-long promise to help people see and hear better.

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

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

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

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

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

Where to get free help filing taxes

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

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

541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond               

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

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Newberg, OR – In the face of continued challenges in the restaurant industry, Social Goods Market, a beloved pizzeria and tap house in Newberg, Oregon, continues to demonstrate the power of community and compassion. Recently, the locally owned business raised $400 in support of the Newberg High School track and field program, helping fund essential uniforms and equipment for student-athletes.

The donation was presented directly to the school's head coach, with hopes that it will play a small but meaningful role in supporting the growing program.

“Even in hard times, we believe in showing up for our youth. They only get these moments once, and if we can be even a small part of their joy and education, we’re all in,” said Robin Sikkens, co-owner of Social Goods.

Since opening its doors in 2016, Social Goods has become more than just a place for pizza and pints—it’s a hub of generosity. The restaurant has proudly supported numerous fundraisers benefiting local schools, churches, and nonprofits, reflecting its deep commitment to giving back.

Whether it’s serving a memorable meal or supporting the next generation, Social Goods continues to live out its mission: creating meaningful experiences inside and outside its walls.

For more information about Social Goods or to get involved in future fundraising efforts, please contact Danny Sikkens at (987) 133-3846 or danny@vinooregon.com.

OUTDOOR GRILLING SAFETY 
 

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

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

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

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It's Free Little Library week, and Oaks Park is celebrating our new Free Little Library, located within the park, with a special offer. 

Bring a family-friendly book to Guest Services between noon and 6 PM on Saturday, 5/17/2025, and get a FREE round of miniature golf!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Council for the Homeless Thanks Winter Shelter Partners for Lifesaving Support

717 Individuals Sheltered Over Winter, Totaling 17,948 Bed Nights (Sleeps)

VANCOUVER, WA (May 15, 2025) — Winter partnerships play a critical role in creating an effective response to homelessness. Through the collective efforts of community partners, Council for the Homeless (CFTH) was able to connect 717 individuals to emergency shelter and housing support over the winter season, providing a total of 17,948 bed nights (sleeps) — each one representing a safe night’s rest for someone without a home.

CFTH extends its deep gratitude to all winter response partners who opened their doors — and in many cases expanded their capacity — to meet the growing need during the coldest months of the year. These services included year-round and seasonal shelters, emergency stays, and warming centers that protected the lives of our unhoused neighbors as temperatures dropped.

“None of this would be possible without the dedication of our partners and volunteers who step up every winter to make sure no one has to endure extreme weather without shelter,” said Sesany Fennie-Jones, chief executive officer of Council for the Homeless. “These partnerships don’t just save lives — they give people the space to begin rebuilding.”

Key shelter partners contributed to the winter response:

1. Year-round shelters — These facilities operate continuously and strive to expand their capacity during severe weather conditions.
2. Winter shelters (November through March) — Hosted at Chkalov Building, Immanuel Lutheran Church, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, St. Paul Lutheran Church, and the Vancouver Arts Center.
3. Severe weather shelters — Open only during declared severe weather emergencies, functioning as overnight shelters or daytime warming centers. Key examples are Living Hope Church and the Salvation Army for overnight stays, and St. Paul Lutheran for daytime warming.

In a key policy shift this winter, CFTH activated 41 Severe Weather Alerts when temperatures fell below 36 degrees, a change from the previous threshold of 32 degrees.  This adjustment allowed more individuals to access emergency shelter earlier and more frequently, providing critical protection from life-threatening conditions.

While winter weather has passed, the need remains. CFTH continues to face ongoing challenges and is currently seeking donations of essential supplies, including hygiene items, rain gear, tents, and blankets. As summer approaches, volunteers will also be needed to assist during extreme heat events.

In alignment with its winter weather response efforts, CFTH has updated its summer severe weather alert threshold.  Alerts will now activate at 98 degrees instead of 100 — another proactive measure to help protect the health and safety of the community’s most vulnerable residents.

Ongoing community support and partnerships are essential to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County. Together, we can provide immediate safety, long-term stability, and hope.

To learn more or support the efforts of Council for the Homeless, visit www.councilforthehomeless.org.

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

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

The committee’s agenda includes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 53,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Release Update: Abducted Children Located

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

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

Update: AMBER Alert Issued for Two Abducted Children

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Released photos:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Children who will be 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2025 are eligible to attend kindergarten next fall. Online enrollment is available now. Parents/guardians are encouraged to enroll their child as soon as possible and participate in kindergarten orientations happening this month.

2025 kindergarten orientation dates:

• Captain Strong: May 20, 4:30 - 6:15 p.m.

• Daybreak: May 20, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

• Glenwood Heights: May 22, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

• Maple Grove: May 22, 5 - 6 p.m.

• Pleasant Valley: May 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

• Tukes Valley: May 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

• Yacolt: May 22, 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Parents/guardians will need proof of their child's birth date (such as a birth certificate) and a signed and completed Washington state certificate of immunization status form or certificate of exemption. Please note that the state of Washington requires that immunization records be medically verified. Families can find out which school their child will attend by using the Clark County Property Information Center or by calling the district boundaries office at 360-885-6577.

Jump Start canceled

Please note that, due to the recent double levy failure and resulting budget cuts, Jump Start Kindergarten is unfortunately canceled for the 2025-26 school year. We understand that this may be disappointing news for families who were looking forward to this opportunity. Please know that we remain committed to helping your child have a successful start to their kindergarten experience. More information will be shared during kindergarten orientations.

Alternative kindergarten options

Battle Ground Public Schools’ K-12 alternative learning experiences also offer early learning opportunities: 

Battle Ground Virtual Academy is an online learning option that uses a web-based curriculum with interactive activities, videos and workbooks. All curriculum is provided and lessons are delivered online. Students receive 30 hours of learning activities per week, as well as one classroom experience per week, either in person or virtually.

River HomeLink offers two half-day in-person kindergarten classes along with three days of at-home instruction. All curriculum materials are provided. Parents are asked to volunteer as a classroom assistant two days per week. 

River also offers PrimeLink, where families can receive weekly advice and assistance on planning, implementing and reporting on their child’s home-based instruction. Parents also have the option of selecting their own at-home curriculum from a list of approved options and taking advantage of a one-time consultation to assist with setting up the at-home learning environment. Students in all ALE programs still have the option of taking elective classes at their neighborhood school.

Before and after-school care

The district has partnered with Right At School to provide before- and after-school care at its primary schools from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day that school is in session.

Preschool options

Battle Ground Public Schools also offers preschool options for early learners. Prairie High School, Battle Ground High School and the BGPS Community Education Department offer tuition-based preschool programs for ages 3-5. Battle Ground Public Schools also offers early intervention programs and services for children ages 3-5 who are identified for special education services. Learn more and compare options.

On May 13, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the May 2025 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Gabriel Mahlberg, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Gabriel is a kind, patient, and deeply understanding young learner who approaches each day with curiosity and wonder. He is always eager to ask thoughtful questions—especially “but why?”—which reflects his genuine desire to understand the world around him. His natural inquisitiveness enriches our classroom discussions and encourages his peers to think more deeply as well. Gabriel also takes great pride in participating in all of our classroom jobs. He completes them not only with enthusiasm but also as a model of responsibility and positivity, inspiring others through his actions. His leadership is quiet yet impactful and rooted in kindness and respect for others. We are truly grateful for Gabriel whose warmth and light brighten every corner of our classroom. He is a joy to teach and a gift to our learning community. 

Oliver McPherson, Kindergarten at Union Ridge Elementary School

Oliver has been a shining star in kindergarten this year! At the start of the year, he was a little shy, but he quickly came out of his shell and showed everyone his kind heart and bright smile. Oliver is always polite, helpful, and ready to jump in — whether it’s sharing his crayons, helping clean up, or cheering on a friend. He works hard on his assignments and takes pride in doing his best. His cheerful spirit and caring nature have helped him make great friends. Oliver's teacher, Andrea McCain, shared, "I am so proud of how much Oliver has grown this year; he truly makes our classroom a happier and fun place to be!" 

Marlon Araujo Burciaga, 2nd grade at South Ridge Elementary School
Marlon deserves to be recognized as South Ridge’s Student of the Month because he works so hard to demonstrate the 3 Rs every day—he is respectful, responsible, and resilient. Marlon approaches each day with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic, giving his best effort to achieve his goals, even when things are hard. He shows true resilience when faced with difficult tasks every day. His determination to grow as a student is especially evident in reading, where his hard work is paying off—he has made remarkable progress and continues to impress with his growth. Marlon is a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated and driven student at South Ridge, and is a joy to have at school!

Holden Crain, 5th grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Holden Crain is a truly inspiring member of our school community. Every day, Holden approaches challenges with determination, joy, and a positive spirit that brightens the lives of those around him. Whether working hard on his therapy bike or using his sit-to-stand device, his perseverance is remarkable. He lights up when greeted, responding with genuine excitement that instantly warms hearts. Holden’s depth of understanding and compassion continually impresses everyone who has the privilege of knowing him. His thoughtfulness is sincere—he often asks about situations he’s heard about, showing a level of care that is truly heartwarming. Holden also loves hearing from his classmates about their activities both in and outside of school, always taking an interest in others' lives. Academically, Holden puts in tremendous effort and eagerly shares his thoughts during group lessons. His love for learning, combined with his enthusiastic participation, makes him a valued member of every classroom he’s part of. Known for his friendly smile and positive attitude, Holden is well-loved by his peers and brings happiness to our school each day. He is a shining example of perseverance, kindness, and community spirit.

Sophia Vasquez, 8th grade at View Ridge Middle School

Sophia's teachers had so much to say about how deserving she is of this recognition. She consistently goes above and beyond in both academics and character. With her outstanding work ethic, positive attitude and unwavering commitment to excellence, she embodies the very best of what it means to be a VRMS student. Mr. Hagensen highlights Sophia’s “incredible energy” in the STEM classroom. He says she’s always asking thoughtful questions, tackling tough problems head-on, and showing true enthusiasm for learning. Her curiosity and strong work ethic make her a standout student. Mr. Broeckel praises Sophia’s academic focus and determination, noting the top-notch quality she puts into every assignment, project, and presentation. Her active participation and insightful contributions in class discussions set an excellent example for her peers. Mrs. Ballman echoes these sentiments, calling Sophia an outstanding student who treats others with kindness and never gives up, even when faced with challenges. She is a wonderful part of our VRMS community. In choir, Mrs. Whetsell commends Sophia for her diligence, commitment, and going the extra mile. Whether it’s staying on task or stepping out of her comfort zone to try for a solo, Sophia brings such a positive attitude and tireless effort to everything she does. Finally, Mr. Kotsovos describes Sophia as both hardworking and kind. Her consistent engagement and maximum effort truly make her deserving of this honor. Sophia, your teachers and the entire VRMS community are proud of you and we celebrate your excellence, leadership, and dedication!

Firefly Krawczyk, 11th grade at Ridgefield High School

Across the many settings within our school—classrooms, clubs, creative spaces, and beyond—Firefly has brought an extraordinary blend of intellect, creativity, humor, and heart. Firefly’s presence at RHS is nothing short of a delight. They have an unmatched talent for connecting course content to their own interests, resulting in work that is both insightful and wonderfully original. As Ms. Lacey shared, “Firefly, your quirky brilliance brought light to every lesson, and you remind all of us that learning can be deeply meaningful and joyful.” Mr. Rinard shared a similar feeling: “Firefly approaches math with a thoughtful calm, always willing to support others while never losing their own sense of curiosity and wonder.” And then, there’s the Firefly that shines outside the bounds of a syllabus—the one who leads with compassion and unshakable integrity. Whether it’s their leadership in Art Club, their problem-solving in technical theatre, or their spontaneous wit that leaves the room smiling, Firefly gives fully of themself in every moment. Their creativity seems limitless, their resilience unwavering, and their sense of justice deeply rooted in love for others. Firefly, you bring joy, insight, and connection into every space you inhabit. Thank you for being a constant source of inspiration, kindness, and light. You will be greatly missed at RHS!

Kathrynne Williams, 12th grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

It is our honor to recognize and celebrate a remarkable student, Rynne Williams, whose journey over the past year is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and personal growth. Rynne has faced significant challenges in her life—circumstances that could have easily derailed her education and future. But instead of allowing those hardships to define her, she made the courageous decision to take control of her path. Through hard work, reflection, and a deep desire to improve, she has turned things around in an extraordinary way. Not only has Rynne made great strides in taking care of herself emotionally and physically, but she has also shown a renewed dedication to her education. After struggling with attendance in the past, she has made noticeable improvements in this area —showing up, staying committed, and taking responsibility for her future. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Rynne continues to attend Cascadia Tech Academy, where she has been entrusted with additional responsibilities in the form of an internship—a clear sign that her educators and mentors see her potential and trust in her abilities. We are proud of the person Rynne is becoming: someone who is proving every day that she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. Her story is one of hope, perseverance, and the incredible impact of believing in oneself. Rynne is thankful for the WRA staff members who have helped her along the way and plans to work after high school to earn some money and then plan for her next steps. Please join us in recognizing Rynne not only for her academic and personal growth, but for inspiring all of us with her strength and courage.

Jessie Stenhjem, Attendance Secretary at Sunset/View Ridge Middle School 

Jessie is an exceptional attendance secretary who goes above and beyond every day in her dual role supporting both Sunset Ridge Intermediate School and View Ridge Middle School. Her dedication to students and staff across two buildings is nothing short of remarkable. Jessie is always there to offer help—no matter how busy she is, she never hesitates to step in and provide support. She consistently puts students first, ensuring their needs are met with care and attention. Her calm, dependable presence creates a sense of stability and warmth for everyone around her. Jessie’s ability to juggle the demands of two schools while still making each person feel valued and supported speaks volumes about her commitment and character. She is more than deserving of Employee of the Month, and is very appreciated. Thank you, Jessie!

Karen Miller, ParaProfessional at Union Ridge 

Karen is an incredible support to both students and staff, going above and beyond in her role as a paraeducator. She helps manage a student we share from the SLC program, coordinating pickup routines and ensuring he has everything he needs for a successful day. Karen is consistently responsive, creative, and proactive—whether she’s making visual supports, checking in through email, or sharing helpful observations. Her work with some of our highest-needs students is truly a gift. She brings warmth, kindness, and encouragement to everyone around her and always lifts spirits with her positive attitude, even on the toughest days. Karen actively participates in trainings, offering thoughtful questions and insights. She supports not only her assigned students, but others in the classroom as well, making a meaningful difference wherever she’s needed. It’s a joy to work alongside her. Thank you, Karen, for your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power to host customer forum on wildfire prevention

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

Topics of conversation: 

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

Event details:

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

    Riverhouse Lodge   

    3075 N Highway 97

    Bend, OR 97703

Livestream:

Webinar Registration - Zoom

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

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

About Pacific Power 

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

###

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

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

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

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

Resources:

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

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

About the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities:

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

May 14, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Town ‘At the Edge of the World’ Breaks Ground on World-Class Skatepark

By Paige Parker

LAKEVIEW, Ore. — One day, a modest idea rolled into Lakeview: What if we built a skatepark?

Two years later, the southern Oregon town — population 2,400 — is turning that vision into reality. This week, excavating equipment arrived on site to begin digging out an old tennis court and shaping the bowl for what will become a world-class skatepark in the heart of the community.

“They're in there working, digging holes and putting pipes in and everything,” said Rotarian Chuck Kelley. “I'm super pleased. Things are going right along.”

It all started when Kelley noticed many kids were missing out on traditional sports like football and basketball — whether because they couldn't afford the gear, didn’t speak English or didn’t feel like they belonged.

“Those sports don’t catch everybody,” said fellow Rotarian Michael McGowen. “The fear is that the way kids go instead is to the easily available and inexpensive drugs.”

A park geared toward the relatively low-barrier activity of skateboarding seemed like a solution. Rotarians donated $1,500 to get the project started, and a community survey showed strong support.

Small Town, Big Dream

Building a skatepark legally is an enormous undertaking. Community members often fear that a skatepark will attract crime, but research shows that parks in visible places tend to become community assets. Lakeview organizers studied the ins and outs of design, safety and liability with support from The Skatepark Project.

The nonprofit was founded by skateboarding legend Tony Hawk — a kid who didn’t fit into traditional sports and turned to skateboarding after struggling in baseball. Hawk became the first skateboarder to land a 900, a trick that involves revolving two and a half times mid-air. He later retired from professional competition and established his foundation to help build skateparks in low-income areas.

Following the Rotarians’ research, the Lakeview Town Council endorsed the project and leased the public land for the skatepark site to organizers for $1 a year. Councilors didn’t want just any skatepark — they wanted one that could attract competitions and visitors to Lakeview, filling its hotel beds, campsites and restaurants.

“We put out an RFP to six of the best skatepark design firms in the United States,” McGowen said.

Oregon’s own Dreamland Skateparks submitted the winning bid. The Lincoln City firm designed a 13,000-square-foot park suitable for skateboarders, scooter riders, BMX bikers, rollerbladers and wheelchair users. The design includes a deep, kidney-shaped bowl, a chute and a series of mounds, allowing for both park and street styles — the two disciplines that debuted during the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. In park style, competitors ride in a bowl to build speed for aerial moves; in street style, they maneuver over obstacles.

‘We’ll Find a Way’

Despite being located in one of Oregon’s poorest counties, the community has raised more than $500,000 of the $600,000 budget. Organizers cobbled together the funding from in-kind donations, philanthropic support and Rotary Club fundraisers. Kelley is even loaning the construction crew a house he owns in town for the duration of the project.

“Lakeview is at the edge of the world,” McGowen said. “We don’t have much in this town, but one thing we do have is town spirit. We’re so remote that we have to do for ourselves.”

Oregon Community Foundation stepped in early with a $10,000 grant and contributed another $50,000 in 2024. OCF President and CEO Lisa Mensah shared Lakeview’s story at the foundation’s recent annual meeting before an audience of more than 700.

“Asking ‘What if’ can show a community of kids that they’re worth fighting for,” Mensah told the crowd at the Portland Art Museum and those watching across the state on Zoom. “I wonder, what if we all believed in our kids like Lakeview believes in theirs? That takes nerve. That takes backbone. And that’s ‘What if’ at work in Oregon.”

Organizers are already working on ways to give away bikes, skateboards and helmets to kids in need through sponsorships from manufacturers and retailers. They hope to bring in a professional skateboarder to offer a free clinic and teach kids the basics of riding.

“If you worry too much in life, you miss out on opportunities,” McGowen said. “We’ll find a way.”

And it will all happen right in the middle of town — where every child will finally be seen.

Watch Lisa Mensah’s annual meeting speech and learn more about the May 9, 2025, event at the Portland Art Museum.

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation

503-720-3112 | cfogarty@oregoncf.org

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

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

Zoom link:

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

Webinar ID: 886 4394 0753

Passcode: 880056

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

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

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

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Wednesday, May 14, the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools, VPS staff and students, and community partners gathered at Fort Vancouver High School for the groundbreaking of a new technical trades building. 

This new facility, funded by the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, will be utilized for classes teaching students job-ready skills in advanced manufacturing and welding. It greatly expands the capacity of Fort’s existing programs and will provide students with hands-on, experiential training. The center aims to create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to the region’s ongoing economic growth.

The Ed Lynch Technical Trades Center is projected to open to students by January 2026.

“We’re so happy to be able to bridge the gap between our donors’ visions, community needs, and the needs of our VPS students. This pathway for collaboration makes buildings like the Ed Lynch Technical Trades Center possible,” said Timothea Sutton, Interim Executive Director of the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools. “We can’t wait to see the positive impact these highly-trained students will bring to our community.”

Attendees included VPS Superintendent Dr. Jeff Snell and City Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle.

This project is 100% donor-funded, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, a charitable fund of the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington, as well as the district’s generous community and business partners.

For Media only: Photos and video from the event can be found here. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

The Clatsop County Appreciation Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND
 

• Captain Robert Gray School (785 Alameda Avenue Astoria OR 97103)

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. But here’s a recap: 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

Raising Readers Begins at Birth — Nestucca Valley 8-Year-Old Helps Inspire Families, Child Care Providers with Toolkits Featuring Her Artwork

TILLAMOOK – If you ask Aaliyah, an 8-year-old from Nestucca Valley, who inspired her to read, she’ll tell her it was her mom. 

“She gave me courage to read by myself,” Aaliyah says. 

So when her after-school program invited students to participate in a Tillamook County-based art contest all about reading, Aaliyah knew right away who she would draw. 

In the center of her submission is her mom and surrounding her are pink and read hearts with open pages and a stack of books. This aspiring park ranger from this coastal Oregon town was surprised to learn her entry was selected among dozens from her region. Not even her mom knew about it and said later she was so honored her daughter thought of her that way. 

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

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

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

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

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

A Tillamook County Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND
 

• Child Care Resource & Referral Building (1315 3rd Street Tillamook, OR 97141)

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. But here’s a recap: 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

Raising Readers Begins at Birth — Clatskanie High Schooler Helps Inspire Families, Child Care Providers with Toolkits Featuring Her Artwork

ST. HELENS – Grace Hadley, a 15-year-old from Clatskanie, loves reading dystopian, fantasy and historical fiction books. She also loves penning stories — so when she heard about a recent county-wide art contest, she decided to create artwork to go along with one of her stories. 

Using colored pencils, she drew her characters in a bleak forested winterscape. Birds play heavily in her storylines, too. “Hawks represent power and the throne, while owls represent wiseness and magic,” Grace says. 

She was delighted to find out her submission was selected from among dozens of submissions as the winner of the “Inspired to Read Art Contest.” 

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

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

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

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

“We thought it could be so much more powerful to talk about early literacy using children’s own voices,” says Abbey Lutskovsky, who oversees the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub and rolled out the contest in the fall in partnership with school districts and child care providers. “Integrating their ideas and artwork into the toolkits really brought them to life,” she says. 

Abbey and colleagues then teamed up with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to add Little Free Libraries to self-sufficiency offices in Seaside, Astoria, St. Helens and Tillamook. The reading tips and artwork are featured at each little library. 

She also staffed a panel to select high-quality books for every age and has co-hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the student artists in St. Helens and Tillamook. The Clatsop County ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. next Wednesday, May 21 at the Department of Human Services office in Seaside. 

This weekend, along with NWRESD’s Child Care Resource and Referral team, the staff will start distributing toolkits around the region to an estimated 75 child care providers in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties as part of the annual Child Care Appreciation events. 

A Columbia County Appreciation Event Will Be Held 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Following Location - MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND

• Grant Watts Elementary School (52000 SE 3rd Place Scappoose, Oregon 97056) 

More About the Toolkits

The toolkits include posters, trifold brochures, stickers and social media graphics all based on the student art contest winners. These materials will help teach parents, caregivers and child care providers about how they can start building literacy skills in babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The full toolkit is available at nwresd.org/raise-a-reader. 

Top Literacy Tips:
 

• Sing or talk to your child in short, simple phrases — and don’t be afraid to use a higher pitch. Babies love it. 

• Cuddle up and read together — any type of book will do, but babies and toddlers love to look at pictures.

• Ask questions as you read aloud to build comprehension.

Other Resources for Parents and Child Care Providers:

• Sign up for mail delivery of books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

• Visit your local library to check out books or use the Little Free Library locator to find books near you.

• Sign up for Lantern to receive free parenting tips via text.

• Check your child’s progress with a free, online Ages & Stages questionnaire.

• Parenting classes will help you build your skills and confidence and connect with other parents. 

• Use research-backed strategies to help your child learn how to problem-solve, share, take turns, sustain friendships and understand and express their emotions. 

About the Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub

Young children from birth to 5 are learning and developing at a rapid pace — faster than any other time in their lives. The Northwest Regional Early Learning Hub works to ensure young children and their families in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties have the resources and support to thrive. We are educators, health care providers, community advocates, program providers and businesses who believe we can do more for our communities together than we can on our own.

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

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

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

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

To schedule an appointment for the enrollment event, call 564.397.2391 or email eduction@clark.wa.gov">taxreduction@clark.wa.gov. Walk-ins also are welcome. Homeowners interested in attending should bring photo ID, federal tax return, W-2 and/or 1099, and any deduction documentation. 

Learn more about the program and apply online at https://assessor-property-tax-exemption-program-clarkcountywa.hub.arcgis.com/.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PRESS RELEASE                                                        FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MAY 14, 2025

CASE: 23CR27928

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

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

Attempt to Commit Any Degree of Murder or Aggravated Murder

Solicitation of Murder

Stalking

Two counts, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Six counts, Unlawful Use of a Global Positioning System Device

Harassment

Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Two counts, Coercion

Assault in the Fourth Degree

Harassment

Sodomy in the First Degree

Two counts, Rape in the First Degree

Two counts, Sodomy in the First Degree

Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree

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

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

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

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

THE FACTS:

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

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

                                            ###MCDA###

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

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