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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supportive Faculty And Staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charting The Future While Giving Back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by Oakridge Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

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

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

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

HELICOPTER CRASH EAST COUNTY – UPDATE 01
 

January 15, 2026 – Newport, OR
 

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

More information will be shared as the situation develops.
 

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LINCOLN ALERTS

Emergency Notifications and Time-Sensitive Updates

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

What to Expect

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

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

Flexible Notification Options

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

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

Sign Up Today

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

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

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

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MEDIA CREWS: Arrive by 9:45 am under the covered basketball courts on the corner of NE Fremont and NE 7th to see approximately 300 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. Volunteers expected to pick up trash and recyclables along NE MLK Jr Blvd and the adjacent neighborhoods.

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

Available interviewees: 

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

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

About SOLVE

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

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

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

During the event, guests will:

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

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

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

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

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

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver and is accessible via I-5, I-205 and C-TRAN bus service.

# # #

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve November 5, 2025, Meeting Minutes

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

     Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

a. Emma Todd; DPSST No. 65491

     Basic Telecommunicator and Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certifications

b. Nicole Silbaugh; DPSST No. 52445

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

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

     Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

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

     Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

     Presented by Jennifer Howald

6. Agency Updates

7. Next Telecommunications Policy Committee Meeting: May 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

State of Oregon v. Tyler Holman

Salem Man sentenced to Life for

Murder in the Second Degree

Marion County: 25CR06138

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

Transportation ADA Transition Plan Open House

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

Felida Elementary School, 2700 NW 119th St.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

MCSO fully implemented the IN2WORK program in 2024.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In 2024, MCSO had 18 IN2WORK graduates.

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

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

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

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

Felicity Stone, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

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

Grayson Munoz, 1st Grade at Union Ridge Elementary School

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

McKinlee Robinson, 1st Grade at South Ridge Elementary School

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

Ethan Makohon, 5th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

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

Taylor Page, 8th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

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

Grace Lee, 12th Grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

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

Colin Hutton, 12th Grade at Ridgefield High School

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

Employees of the Month

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

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

Amanda Burgess, 5th Grade Teacher Sunset Ridge Intermediate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Update- Oregon State Police Seeking Public Assistance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets for the exhibition can be reserved at this link.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s New in the 2026 Edition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Direct Benefits for Students and Academic Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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For more than 55 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 17,500 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

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

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

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

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

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EVENT DETAILS

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

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

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

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

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

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

WINTER KIT SUPPLY DRIVE

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

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

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

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

ABOUT KEYNOTE SPEAKER

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

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

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

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

ABOUT CLARK COLLEGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Clark County Historical Society and Museum

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

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

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

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

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January 13, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

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

971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

Meetings occur on the third Wednesday of each month and begin at 4:30 pm. All meetings are open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

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

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

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from January 4 to January 7, 2026, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on January 4 and two oocysts were detected in each of the samples collected on January 6 and January 7. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the sample collected on January 5. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on December 31, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

Case: 23CR16979

Portland, OR                                                                 January 12, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

PROLIFIC PORTLAND AREA TAGGER CONVICTED ON 51 COUNTS

Release date: 11/20/25

Case: 23CR16979

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

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

Our office will ask the court to impose a substant

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

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

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

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

THE FACTS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

                                                                   ###MCDA###

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

ABOUT MID OREGON CREDIT UNION:

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

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2026

Oregon Community Foundation Contact

Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications, Oregon Community Foundation

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

Oregon Humanities Contact

Ben Waterhouse, Communications Director, Oregon Humanities

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

OCF FIELDS FELLOWSHIP INVESTS IN OREGON ARTISTS AND COMMUNITIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Artists

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Oregon Community Foundation

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

About Oregon Humanities

Oregon Humanities connects people and communities through conversation, storytelling, and participatory programs to inspire understanding and collaborative change. More information about our programs and publications — which include Consider This, Conversation Project, Humanity in Perspective, The Detour podcast, Facilitation Training, and Oregon Humanities magazine — can be found at oregonhumanities.org. Oregon Humanities is an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities and a partner of the Oregon Cultural Trust.

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PF&R responds to residential fire with fire victim.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clark County Superior Court operations will remain at the courthouse.

Key information for court users:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by the Seaside Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

January 12, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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12 de enero de 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

January 12, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

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

971-323-3831

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional resources:

Two-page summary of the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes from youth who received tuition assistance through YEHP partnerships:

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

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

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on January 22, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 am. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

    Presented by Marie Atwood

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

Administrative Announcement

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

Información en español

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 24, 2026. 

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
January 12, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This investigation remains ongoing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Español a continuación

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

McFarland said it left a lasting impact. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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Español

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

McFarland dijo que esta experiencia le dejó una huella imborrable. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Event Details

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

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

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

About SOLVE 

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Announcement made during the Jan. 8 Board Work Session

• Retirement effective July 2026 following 19 years of service

• Board to launch national search for next General Manager

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

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

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

A Legacy of Community Connection

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

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

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

Transition and Search Process

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

About Cherriots

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

For more information, visit www.cherriots.org.

Water Distribution staff will be flushing water mains in the affected area and collecting bacteriological samples. We will inform you when tests show no bacteria are present and you no longer need to boil your water. We should have the bacteriological results by early Monday, January 12, 2026.

This boil water advisory is a precaution. To limit risk to health, customers should follow the instructions contained in this advisory.

For more information, go to or contact Lacey Goeres-Priest, Water Quality Supervisor at Salem Public Works, 503-932-6270 or LGoeres@cityofsalem.net. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by contaminants in drinking water are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or the Oregon Health Authority, Drinking Water Services at 971-673-0405.

Reckless Driver Arrested Following Pursuit

January 10, 2026 – Newport, OR

On January 10, 2026, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received information regarding a vehicle being operated recklessly through an active construction zone near Milepost 106 on Highway 101, nearly hitting workers and running over traffic cones.

At approximately 8:37am, a deputy located the vehicle entering Newport city limits at a high rate of speed, traveling in the oncoming lane. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver failed to yield. Assisted by the Newport Police Department and the Oregon State Police, deputies pursued the vehicle south bound through Newport and the community of Seal Rock. The driver, later identified as Jonathan Grimm, continuously operated the vehicle at speeds between 90 and 110 MPH.

Grimm turned off the highway near NW Fox Creek and continued to attempt to elude police until arriving at a residence. Grimm fled on foot and was quickly apprehended without further incident. Lincoln City Police assisted in the investigation and confirmed the vehicle which endangered highway workers was the same vehicle Grimm was driving. Grimm was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on charges of Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, Reckless Endangerment of Highway Workers, and Attempt to Elude.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all partnering agencies in this apprehension.
 

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Hidden Costs, Withheld Documents, and a $17 Billion Question: Why the Interstate Bridge Replacement Demands Immediate Oversight

Recent reporting by Willamette Week and the Oregon Journalism Project has revealed that the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Program possessed a significantly higher internal cost estimate for the I-5 bridge replacement project—potentially approaching $17 billion—after recently informing Oregon and Washington lawmakers that updated cost information was not yet available. The existence of these concealed cost estimates raises serious concerns about transparency, governance, and the stewardship of public funds. Economist Joe Cortright obtained the internal cost estimate through a public records request, confirming that the documents were produced as part of the publicly funded Interstate Bridge Replacement program and had not been disclosed to legislators or the public.

This disclosure is not an isolated incident. Independent engineers, advocates, and community organizations—including Neighbors for a Better Crossing—have repeatedly been forced to file public records requests to obtain basic project information, including dimensional data, cost assumptions, and technical studies. Retired civil engineer Bob Ortblad has documented multiple instances in which IBR provided incomplete, misleading, or selectively presented information to advance a predetermined outcome. Such practices have significantly eroded public trust, and IBR’s credibility, caling into question whether decision-makers are receiving accurate and complete information.

Equally troubling is IBR’s continued dismissal of the immersed tube tunnel (ITT) alternative. Independent engineers have demonstrated that an ITT could be constructed at a lower cost, in significantly less time, and with fewer environmental and community impacts than the proposed bridge—while also being expandable to accommodate future traffic demand. By contrast, the current bridge proposal provides the same number of general-purpose vehicle lanes as the existing bridge, offers no expandability for future traffic needs, and locks the region into a fixed, high-cost configuration for generations. The ITT concept has been acknowledged by the U.S. Coast Guard as a viable bridge replacement alternative from a navigation standpoint, yet IBR planners dismissed it using flawed data inputs rather than a rigorous, independent evaluation. This is not the first time IBR’s credibility has been challenged; as Bob Ortblad has publicly stated, repeated misrepresentations have raised serious questions about whether the program’s actions reflect incompetence, institutional bias, or deliberate deception.

Given that the IBR project relies on public taxpayer funds, federal grants, and future toll revenues, there is no legitimate justification for withholding cost estimates, technical analyses, or alternatives evaluations from lawmakers or the public. A project of this magnitude and consequence demands the highest standards of transparency and accountability. 

That expectation was clearly articulated during the December 15 bi-state legislative meeting with IBR, when Oregon Rep. Thuy Tran pressed project leaders for concrete cost information, stating: “I’m hoping you can get us a budget estimate in January, so we have something to go by. I’m not expecting you to have a finite budget plan, but you can’t punt this down the road. … I want a date, and I want a report. Otherwise, I would say your team is not doing its work.”

Despite an explicit legislative request, critical cost information is still being withheld. This is not a scheduling issue—it is a breakdown in transparency and oversight. Requests have failed. Lawmakers must act decisively and immediately suspend further advancement of the project until all transparency failures are fully addressed and withheld information is disclosed.

Neighbors for a Better Crossing therefore calls on Oregon and Washington legislators to immediately require:

• A full independent forensic audit of IBR finances, cost estimates, and consultant expenditures
• A third-party, independent evaluation of the immersed tube tunnel alternative conducted by experts with no financial or institutional ties to IBR
• Immediate disclosure of all internal reports, cost estimates, and technical analyses related to project scope, costs, and alternatives
• A pause on further advancement of the project until these reviews are completed and publicly vetted

The public, affected communities, and elected officials deserve honest information before committing to a project that could burden the region for the next century. Transparency is not optional when billions in public dollars—and the future of regional mobility—are at stake.

Health officials warn public about two locations where affected individuals spent time

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Linn County public health officials are investigating two cases of measles and want people to know about locations where they may have been exposed to the highly infectious virus.

The affected individuals developed measles symptoms—rash, fever, cough and runny nose—on Jan. 5. OHA is not identifying the individuals’ gender, age or county of residence.

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

• Lebanon Community Hospital Emergency Department, between 8:53 p.m. Jan. 6 and 7 a.m. Jan. 7.
• Albany General Hospital Emergency Department, between 4:59 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. Jan. 7.

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

“Measles is here in Oregon and rates are increasing nationally, which is why we encourage everyone to make sure they’re protected by talking with their providers about being up to date on vaccinations,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

Facts about measles

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

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.

The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

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

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

Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman pleaded guilty yesterday for engaging in sexual contact of an unaccompanied minor under the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement.

Teresa Valdovinos-Godinez, 34, pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact.

According to court documents, between September 12, 2023, and October 8, 2023, Valdovinos-Godinez engaged in abusive sexual contact with an individual in federal custody while she was working as a counselor at Morrison Mi Futuro, a residential facility for unaccompanied minors in Portland.

On August 12, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Valdovinos-Godinez with abusive sexual contact.

Valdovinos-Godinez faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release. She will be sentenced on April 2, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Valdovinos-Godinez has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victim.

The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Rochat and Pamela Paaso are prosecuting the case.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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New Advanced Manufacturing Center addresses growing workforce demand

RIDGEFIELD, Wash. — Clark College officially marked the opening of its newest location, Boschma Farms, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 8. College leaders, community partners, and elected officials gathered in front of the building for opening remarks from Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards, Board of Trustees Chair Marilee Scarbrough, and Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole. Tanisha Harris, representing Senator Maria Cantwell’s office, was also in attendance and read a statement from the senator.

Located on a 10-acre property in Ridgefield, Boschma Farms houses the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC), a 49,000-square-foot facility designed to support hands-on learning and workforce development. Following the ribbon-cutting, partners and guests toured the AMC, including the Learning Lab, where attendees viewed demonstrations of the state-of-the-art equipment used in Clark’s advanced manufacturing program.

Advanced manufacturing is one of the fastest-growing industries in the Pacific Northwest, shaping the regional economy and driving demand for highly skilled workers. According to JobsEQ, more than 230,000 people are employed in advanced manufacturing in Washington state, including nearly 13,000 in Clark County. The Portland-Vancouver metro area currently offers nearly 3,800 job openings in the field.

“Today's official ribbon-cutting signifies a new beginning for the college and the community,” Dr. Edwards said. “As the need for an advanced manufacturing workforce in our region continues to grow, we recognized the opportunity—and the responsibility—to meet it head-on. The Advanced Manufacturing Center is a direct response to those regional and national needs.”

With more than $3 million in federal support, the AMC expands Clark College’s ability to train advanced manufacturing technicians, modernize labs with clean energy technology, and increase STEM degree completion for low-income students. “The Center will provide more opportunities for Southwest Washington residents to gain the skills they need to land good-paying jobs and will help attract more high-tech businesses in the region,” U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell said in her statement.

Advanced Manufacturing at Clark College offers pathways through stackable degrees and certificates with multiple entry and exit points, including certificates of achievement, certificates of proficiency, and an Associate of Applied Technology degree. Graduates can pursue careers across a variety of fields, including mechatronics, programming, welding, and renewable energy.

“We talk a lot about affordability and cost of living, and a major solution is to create opportunities for better wages and improved livelihood through a quality education,” said Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole. “If we want people to live, work, and thrive here, we have to make sure workforce training is accessible, modern, and aligned with the realities of our region. That’s why this campus matters—serving northern Clark County, and strengthening the regional workforce while keeping opportunities close to home.”

Construction for the facility began in June 2023. The first cohort of advanced manufacturing students started classes at Boschma Farms during the fall 2025 term. In addition to the advanced manufacturing program, the campus also hosts general education classes and Community and Continuing Education courses, as well as meeting spaces for community groups. 

“Moments like this remind me why community colleges matter,” Chair Scarbrough said. “This facility is not just a building—it is a promise to students that we are investing in their futures here in Southwest Washington. What happens here will ripple outward, strengthening families, businesses, and the regional economy for years to come.”

At the heart of the AMC is the Learning Lab, a highly visible, hands-on instructional space featuring mills and lathes, water jet cutters, robotic welders, press brakes, and 3D printers.

Led by construction partners, Mortenson Construction and Henneberry-Eddy Architects, the Advanced Manufacturing Center at Boschma Farms has earned a LEED Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Design features include high-speed fans for air circulation, natural light supported by skylights and daylight-harvesting sensors, and bird-safe frit patterns on the windows to reduce bird run-ins with the glass. Additionally, portions of the building’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are exposed, offering future learning opportunities for students.

During her speech, Dr. Edwards referenced one of her favorite aspects of the building’s design—a flowing basket-weave pattern incorporated into the walls, symbolizing the interconnectivity of threads, histories, and perspectives, and how diverse backgrounds and stories shape the Clark community and the region. “I am eager to see how this building will create new opportunities, transform lives, and impact our region in the coming years—by teaching the skills needed for a growing industry and helping students build a future right here in Southwest Washington.”

Learn more:

• Clark College’s AMC at Boschma Farms location

• Clark College’s Advanced Manufacturing Program

• Video preview available here

About Clark College 

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

Clark College’s main campus is located in Vancouver’s Central Park, with classes also held at Washington State University Vancouver, Columbia Tech Center, and the new Advanced Manufacturing Center in Ridgefield, Wash.

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The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. 

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236.

The public and guests may join in person or virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

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Public comment will be limited to a total of 30 minutes per meeting. Individuals wishing to address the Board will be required to submit their request and topic via the online form at least 24 hours prior to the start of the regular business meeting.  For more information regarding this process, please visit our website at www.csd28j.org.

Note: The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet in executive session, after their regular business meeting, pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(k) - to consider matters relating to school safety or a plan that responds to safety threats made toward a school. Access is limited to designated staff only.

The full board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page. The meeting agenda may be updated as needed and additional board meeting documents may be added as they become available. 

For information about the agenda email dan@csd28j.org">melissa_grindle@csd28j.org or oard@csd28j.org">board@csd28j.org.

Clackamas County, Ore. (Jan. 9, 2026)- On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 35, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford Escape, operated by Jacob Robert Brugman (29) of Vancouver (WA), was passing a Ford F-250, operated by Gary James Beebe (55) of Prineville, in a passing lane when the F-250 merged into the Escape as it passed. The contact caused the F-250 to lose control, crash through a guardrail, and roll down an embankement into trees. The Escape was able to stop after the vehicular contact.

The operator of the F-250 (Beebe) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Escape and passenger, Kassidy Brugman (27), were reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Hoodland Fire Department and ODOT.

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

Clackamas County, Ore. (Jan. 9, 2026)- On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 12:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 205, near milepost 15, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford Aspire, operated by Jack Jay Lewis (64) of Molalla, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck an ODOT sign, and rolled. 

The operator for the Ford (Lewis), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Fire and ODOT.

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

Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto is seeking applicants for seven open positions on the volunteer Animal Protection and Control Advisory Board. All the openings are for terms that begin immediately.

The positions are for Clark County residents that represent:

• Veterinarian or veterinary technician
• No domestic animals
• Animal welfare
• Dog owner
• Facility or animal professional
• Livestock owner
• At large

Currently, advisory board members meet every other month at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month. Meetings are currently being held in person or virtually using the Microsoft Teams platform.

Functions of the 10-member board include:

• Reporting to the County Council at least once a year on general operations of the Animal Protection and Control Program
• Recommending potential changes to services modifications to code that will promote animal welfare and the most efficient animal services possible
• Promoting the program, including its licensing of all dogs and cats.

Applications and a résumé can be mailed to Animal Protection and Control, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810 or emailed to jacqueline.hoffman@clark.wa.gov.

For more about the board or to download an application, please go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/animal-control-advisory-board.

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. 

SW Arthur remains open to traffic. Drivers can avoid the area by detouring to SW Fourth Ave or by taking the SW Naito Parkway exit from SW Kelly Ave.
 

PORTLAND, OR – Portland Water Bureau crews have closed SW First Avenue north of SW Arthur Street to SW Sheridan Street to respond to a broken water main (pipe). SW Arthur Street remains open to traffic.

Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians should use caution while traveling in the area. Please keep a safe distance from crews, give flaggers plenty of space, and slow down when traveling through the work zones.

Limited water service impacts

The Water Bureau is working to determine water service impacts in the area. Currently, about 13 properties are impacted, including some multifamily apartment communities. Due to the large size of the main break, impacted properties could be without water service until late tonight or early tomorrow, January 10. Main breaks can cause water pressure to change, which can result in water discoloration. If you are experiencing discolored water, the Water Bureau is here to help. Report discolored water to the Water Quality Line. 

About the break
Crews were dispatched to the area before noon on Friday, January 9. The horizontal break in the 16-inch water main has caused about 80 feet of the road surface to lift. Crews are also seeing localized street flooding.

We are working to assess next steps to fully repair the main and the street, but do not yet have an estimate on when repairs will be complete.

The public is encouraged to follow the Portland Water Bureau on Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram for updates.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to more than 750,000 people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

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

Access and translation

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – On Jan. 1, the City launched a new Rental Registration System designed to improve transparency, support healthy housing conditions, and strengthen communication between the City, renters and rental housing providers.

The system creates a comprehensive inventory of rental properties across Vancouver. It will better track rental housing stock, help the City respond more efficiently to safety concerns, and share timely information with rental housing providers about inspections, code updates and tenant protections. Over 800 units have been registered to date.

“This is an important first step toward ensuring safe, well-maintained rental housing throughout Vancouver,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “Having accurate information allows the City to be more proactive, equitable and effective in how we support both renters and property owners.”

Under the new system, owners of residential rental properties are required to register their units with the City every year and can do so at https://www.cityofvancouver.us/rentalregistration. Property owners will be asked to provide basic information about their rental units, including ownership and contact details.

The program will roll out in phases to better support rental housing providers in meeting the new requirements. Early 2026 will focus on education, outreach and technical assistance to help property owners understand the registration requirements and successfully use the system. Fees are waived through March. Beginning April 1, the registration fee is $30 per rental unit. Property owners are encouraged to register early and reach out with questions.

Over the coming months, the City will host community information sessions and continue working with tenants, housing providers, and community partners to refine and improve the program.

Learn more at cityofvancouver.us/rentalregistration or by calling 360-487-7928 or emailing entalregistration@cityofvancouver.us">rentalregistration@cityofvancouver.us.

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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell presented two MCSO deputies with the agency’s inaugural National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Service Award.

Friday, January 9, 2026, is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.

“This is a day to pause, reflect, and to thank our law enforcement professionals here in Multnomah County and across the country,” said Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell. “Public safety is a daily commitment, carried out with care and accountability by those who understand the weight of their authority and the immense trust placed in them.”

The work of the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) extends far beyond its patrol function. Our deputies provide other essential services, such as civil enforcement, investigations, search and rescue, and river patrol. MCSO operates two corrections facilities.

At the core of what MCSO does every day is to protect our neighborhoods and to operate safe and efficient jails, Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell said.

In 2025, through focused patrols, thorough investigations, and proactive enforcement – MCSO Deputy Jeffrey Wass and Deputy Kyle Beam recovered nearly 60 firearms by themselves, which is truly remarkable.

In addition to the firearms they seized, Deputy Wass and Deputy Beam have returned an estimated $400,000 worth of stolen property. They have also seized multiple sets of body armor and more than 10 pounds of controlled substances. These outcomes reflect MCSO’s workforce that is dedicated to the safety of everyone served.  

In 2025, MCSO deputies responded to 219 calls for service that ended with a firearm being lodged into the MCSO property room. Of those 219 calls for service, MCSO deputies lodged 415 firearms, which is about a 6% increase from 2024. Collectively, over the past five years, MCSO deputies have seized about 2,700 firearms.

Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell added that the impact of Deputy Wass and Deputy Beam’s work in 2025 is rooted in collaboration – whether that is with the District Attorney’s Office, other police agencies, or within MCSO itself. Both Deputy Wass and Deputy Beam are passionate about supporting other deputies when it comes to investigating firearm-related offenses, stolen property, and drug crimes.

“Each firearm removed from illegal possession represents potential harm avoided, a conflict interrupted, and a life possibly saved,” said Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell.

MCSO’s National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Service Award recognizes a member, or members, of MCSO for exemplary public safety service.

In December 2025, the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association also recognized Deputy Wass for his work and presented him with an award at the OSSA winter conference.

Both Deputy Beam and Deputy Wass are lateral hires to MCSO – meaning they came to MCSO with active police accreditation from another agency.

Several photos are being released from today’s ceremony.

Media may used these photos with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Video from today’s event and a 2025 patrol shift ride along will also be provided to media.

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Curious what call types and how many your Milwaukie Officers responded to and initiated in 2025? 

https://milwaukieoregon.gov/departments/police/about/calls_for_service_data.php

Other notable activity so far in January:

On 1/2, A Milwaukie Patrol Officer observed a male seated in a vehicle parked suspiciously in the Ardenwald neighborhood. The Officer contacted the male who had visible drug paraphernalia. Upon further investigation the Officer arrested the male for a number of charges and transported him to the Clackamas County Jail, subsequently following up on other related criminal activity after seizing a large quantity of narcotics, a stolen firearm and other contraband. After a Clackamas County Grand Jury indictment, Michael K. Gregory, 55 of Milwaukie faces charges of; Manufacturing of a Schedule I Controlled Substance, Distribution of a controlled substance, Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, Cocaine. Possession of the afore mentioned substances in substantial quantity including mushrooms, Felon in possession of a firearm, body armor, restricted weapon. MiPD Case 26-16

On 1/4, Milwaukie Officers responded to an apartment complex in the Island Station neighborhood after an alert neighbor reported a suspicious vehicle. Officers located a Toyota 4-runner with abnormal alterations to the ignition and steering column. Officers learned through follow-up investigation the vehicle had been stolen from a repair shop in Washington State and the owner was unaware. Officers contacted the occupant, Taylor E. Thomas, 28 of Oregon who was wanted and arrested him for possession of a stolen vehicle/unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon and his three active arrest warrants. A pistol was lodged in evidence at the Milwaukie Police Department.  MiPD case 26-61

On 1/7, Milwaukie Officers were called to the Milwaukie Historic Neighborhood on report of a male who had urinated on the side of the road while facing a local private school which was in class at the time. While contacting the male who had entered the Ledding Library of Milwaukie, Officers recognized him and learned he was wanted for various probation violations and after exiting the library and trying to avoid police, he was taken into custody and transported to jail. 

On 1/8 an Officer was dispatched to a local retailer who reported a patron trying to use a fraudulent $100 bill. After examining the bill and investigating the circumstances, the bill was indeed counterfeit, and the female was cited on Forgery charges. If you suspect a bill is counterfeit and a Milwaukie retailer or resident of the City, contact Milwaukie Police. 

Non emergency 503-786-7500,  emergency call text 911

City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

Woodburn, OR:  Woodburn is a safe city, a place with a richly diverse cultural history, where people raise families, work hard, retire, practice their faith, and truly care for one another. 

The continued presence of federal immigration operations in Woodburn has harmed our families and children, imposed fear, and is destabilizing the public safety we enjoy amongst all facets of our community. Families, small business owners, and farmers are suffering the economic consequences.

I watched in horror the killing of Renee Good in Minneapolis by ICE. We stand with the residents of Minneapolis and pray for the family of Renee Good. And may justice be served.

The escalation of violence and aggressive tactics used by federal agents against peaceful, hard-working people and those exercising their protected constitutional rights is unacceptable and demands accountability.

In order to maintain peace and public safety, and to protect our local economy, today I am joining other Oregon officials in demanding that ICE immediately cease all operations in Woodburn and throughout Oregon.

WORKING SESSION

• Strategic Plan & Goals update

REGULAR SESSION

The Gervais School District #1 School Board, Gervais, Oregon, will convene in a Working Session at 5:30 p.m. at the District Office Conference via ZOOM on Thursday, January 15, 2026, following the Working Session will be a Regular Session (start time 6:15 p.m.). The agenda for the Regular Session meeting includes, but is not limited to, the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

• Policies Second Reading

CPA-AR:  Layoff and Recall for Administrators

GCBD/GDBD:  Sick Leave – Personal Illness and Injury Leave

JFCEB:  Personal Electronic Devices

JFCEB-AR:  Request for Personal Electronic Devices Exception

• Approval of Integrated Plan Grant Agreement
• Approve Transfer Number from 130 to 150
• OSBA Board Election Position 11

Discussion Items:     

• Bond Update
• Policies First Reading

KL-AR(2):  Appeal to the Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction 

• 2026-2027 School Calendar

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WORKING SESSION

• Strategic Plan & Goals update

REGULAR SESSION

The Gervais School District #1 School Board, Gervais, Oregon, will convene in a Working Session at 5:30 p.m. at the District Office Conference via ZOOM on Thursday, January 15, 2026, following the Working Session will be a Regular Session (start time 6:15 p.m.). The agenda for the Regular Session meeting includes, but is not limited to, the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

• Policies Second Reading

CPA-AR:  Layoff and Recall for Administrators

GCBD/GDBD:  Sick Leave – Personal Illness and Injury Leave

JFCEB:  Personal Electronic Devices

JFCEB-AR:  Request for Personal Electronic Devices Exception

• Approval of Integrated Plan Grant Agreement
• Approve Transfer Number from 130 to 150
• OSBA Board Election Position 11

Discussion Items:    

• Bond Update
• Policies First Reading

KL-AR(2):  Appeal to the Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction 

• 2026-2027 School Calendar

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CORVALLIS, Ore. - On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at about 10:50 AM, Albany Police Department officers responded to a North Albany residence on a report of an older brother holding a knife against his younger brother. Officers approached the door of the residence, where they saw through the door window, at least one man holding a knife. The officers gave loud verbal commands. Officers were in close proximity when a man holding a knife opened the door and quickly began to exit towards the officers. Two officers fired multiple shots from their duty pistols, striking the man multiple times. Officers immediately began rendering aid to the man and continued to do so until medics arrived on scene.

It is common practice when officers use or are involved in the use of deadly physical force, that an outside agency is requested to conduct an investigation. The Benton County District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement agencies operating in Benton County have adopted and approved a Deadly Physical Force Plan for these instances. Albany Police Department Chief Marcia Harnden requested an uninvolved agency, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, investigate both the use of deadly force and crimes occurring between persons inside the home.

Pursuant to the investigation, the individual shot was later identified as Maverick Lyon (age 21). Maverick Lyon is in stable condition and continues to receive treatment for his injuries. Video obtained in the investigation showed Maverick Lyon was held by his older brother, John “Dakota” Lyon (age 27), at knife point prior to law enforcement’s contact. During the event, Maverick Lyon obtained a separate knife at the apparent direction of Dakota Lyon. Maverick Lyon had this knife in his hand at the door when he began to exit. Review of video showed Dakota Lyon also holding a knife.

John Dakota Lyon is charged by the Benton County District Attorney’s Office with Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Coercion, Menacing, and Reckless Endangering of Another Person. Maverick Lyon is the named victim of those alleged crimes. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office submitted a Probable Cause Affidavit to the Benton County Circuit Court summarizing the events and charges against Dakota Lyon. The Probable Cause Affidavit was previously released to the press and is a public document. Additionally, the Benton County Parole and Probation department filed a parole violation against Dakota Lyon for various violations of his parole.

Both the investigation into the use of force and the actions for which Dakota Lyon is charged, are ongoing and will be conducted in cooperation with the Benton County District Attorney’s Office. Anyone who has information regarding these matters is encouraged to contact Benton County Sheriff’s Office to make a report at 541-753-8477.

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Portland, Ore. - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is saddened and deeply disturbed by the shooting of two individuals by federal agents in Portland. We are closely monitoring developments as more information becomes available. Our hearts are with the victims and their families, and we hope for their full recovery.

As frontline healthcare workers, we are entrusted with a fundamental responsibility: to protect life, reduce harm, and provide the highest level of care possible—without exception. While this responsibility most often involves caring for our patient’s physical health, it also requires us to speak out when people’s safety and well-being are threatened.

The presence of federal agents in our communities endangers the safety and well-being of Oregonians. These agencies have demonstrated a troubling pattern of unjustified violence, harassment without accountability, and the detention of individuals without cause. This must stop. Their actions spread fear, cause harm, and put lives at risk.

Oregonians deserve better. Immigrant communities deserve better. No one’s life should be placed in jeopardy by a federal agency, and no one should have to live in fear.

ONA calls on the Department of Homeland Security to listen to local leaders, immediately cease operations in Oregon, and ensure a comprehensive, independent investigation into this shooting. At the same time, we join Oregon’s elected officials in calling for a calm, peaceful response that reflects our shared commitment to justice, dignity, and the power of collective action.

As frontline caregivers, we are rooted in the communities we serve, and we bear witness to the consequences of violence and fear every day. We will continue to stand up for the safety of all people, inside our hospitals and clinics and beyond their walls.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Council is seeking applicants for an open seat on the Clark County Law and Justice council.

The open position is for a resident living in the unincorporated area of the county.

The Law and Justice Council is established by state law to help coordinate activities of the local criminal justice and develop a community corrections plan for local and state corrections services in the county.

Meetings are currently held at 8 am on the second Thursday of every other month in person at the

Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., sixth floor, suite 680 and online via WebEx.

To apply, submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver 98666-5000. Applications can also be emailed to michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.

9 de enero de 2026 – Portland General Electric (PGE) quiere que los clientes estén al tanto de las prácticas engañosas y las estafas relacionadas con los servicios públicos.

Hay informes recientes de personas que se hacen pasar por trabajadores de servicios públicos y utilizan tácticas de presión para entrar en las viviendas o exigir pagos inmediatos. Esta es una táctica que suelen usar los estafadores para engañar a los clientes desprevenidos, e incluye llamadas telefónicas, mensajes de texto, mensajes en redes sociales y correos electrónicos engañosos.

PGE recomienda a sus clientes que siempre pidan ver la insignia de empleado del visitante, y que llamen a PGE (503-228-6322) para verificar que se trata de un empleado o contratista de PGE. PGE siempre ofrece numerosas oportunidades para realizar pagos antes de las desconexiones de servicio.

Por lo general, estas prácticas engañosas que se informan a PGE están dirigidas a los clientes residenciales, pero las empresas —especialmente los propietarios de pequeñas empresas— también pueden estar en riesgo.

Estos consejos pueden ayudar a los clientes a reconocer las actividades fraudulentas y a protegerse contra ellas.

• Compruebe la identidad de los representantes de servicios públicos que realizan visitas en persona. Si son empleados de PGE, le mostrarán la insignia y la identificación de PGE.
  • Llame a la Policía inmediatamente si sospecha que la persona es un impostor. Llame al 911 si está en peligro físico.
• Sospeche de las amenazas urgentes o de las presiones sobre la desconexión del servicio y el pago de las facturas.
  • Con frecuencia, los estafadores se aprovechan de la incertidumbre y el miedo que genera en la víctima la posibilidad de que le corten la energía para presionarla y que pague de inmediato.
  • Comuníquese con el servicio al cliente de PGE para verificar el estado de su cuenta y las opciones de pago si alguien lo amenaza inesperadamente con una desconexión inmediata.
• PGE nunca pedirá a los clientes que paguen la factura con una tarjeta prepaga, aplicaciones de pago digital, criptomonedas u operaciones directas con instituciones bancarias.
  • Regístrese en línea o descargue la aplicación móvil de PGE para controlar el estado de su cuenta y verificar los métodos de pago aprobados. Los representantes de PGE nunca se comunicarán con los clientes para solicitarles información personal confidencial, como el número del Seguro Social o información bancaria.
• No asuma que el nombre y el número que aparecen en el identificador de llamadas son legítimos.
  • Llame a PGE directamente (503-228-6322) para verificar la información de la cuenta, al número que aparece en la factura mensual o en el sitio web de PGE.
  • No utilice un número que se le brinde en una llamada o visita a domicilio inesperadas de una persona que diga ser representante de PGE.
• Preste atención cuando abra los enlaces en los correos electrónicos o los mensajes de texto.
  • Tenga cuidado cuando abra los correos electrónicos o los mensajes de texto en los que se solicite información de la cuenta o el pago de una factura o se afirme que los envía directamente un empleado de PGE.
  • Revise más de una vez la autenticidad de los enlaces antes de abrirlos, ya que pueden ser parte de una campaña de phishing diseñada para obtener información personal.

Si un cliente cree que su información ha sido expuesta o que ha sido víctima de un fraude relacionado con una cuenta de PGE, debe denunciar el incidente a PGE al 503-228-6322.

Para obtener más información sobre cómo protegerse contra las estafas, visite el sitio web de alerta de fraude de PGE.

Jan. 7, 2026 – Portland General Electric (PGE) wants customers to be aware of misleading practices and deceptive utility scams.

There are recent reports of individuals posing as utility workers using high-pressure tactics for home entry or immediate payment. This is one tactic scammers often use to deceive unsuspecting customers, including making misleading phone calls, texts, social media messages and emails.

PGE encourages customers to always ask to see a visitor’s employee badge, then call PGE (503-228-6322) to verify they are a PGE employee or contractor. PGE always provides multiple opportunities for payment in advance of service shutoffs.

Often these deceptive practices reported to PGE target residential customers, but businesses – especially small business owners – can also be at risk.

The following tips can help customers recognize and protect themselves against fraudulent activities:

• Verify the identity of in-person utility representatives. If it is a PGE employee, they will show a PGE badge and identification.
  • Call the police immediately if you suspect the person is an imposter. Call 911 if you are in physical danger.
• Be suspicious of urgent threats or pressuring language around bill disconnects or payment.
  • Scammers often rely on a victim’s uncertainty and panic over the prospect of a threatened power shutoff to pressure immediate payment.
  • Contact PGE customer service to verify account status and payment options if someone unexpectedly threatens immediate disconnection.
• PGE will never ask customers to pay their bill with a prepaid card, digital payment apps, cryptocurrencies or direct transactions with banking institutions.
  • Register online or download the PGE mobile app to check account status and verify approved methods of payment. PGE representatives will never contact customers and ask for sensitive personal information such as social security numbers or banking information.
• Don’t assume the name and number on caller ID are legitimate.
  • Call PGE directly to verify account information (503-228-6322), using the phone number on PGE monthly bill or from PGE’s website.
  • Do not use a number provided by an unexpected phone call or household visit from someone claiming to be a PGE representative.
• Be aware when clicking links in emails or texts.
  • Use caution when opening unexpected emails or texts asking for account information, bill payment or claiming to be directly from a PGE employee.
  • Double check links for authenticity before clicking on them, they may be part of a phishing campaign designed to obtain personal information.

If a customer thinks their information has been compromised or they have been victim to a scam related to a PGE account, report the incident to PGE at 503-228-6322.

For more information on how to stay safe from scams, visit PGE’s Fraud Alert webpage.