PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR SUB-COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Investigator Sub-Committee of the Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee for the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Private Investigator Summit Survey Results

Presented by Suzy Herring

3. Agency Update

4. Round Table

5. Next Scheduled Meeting - TBD

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 Private Security/Private Investigations 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.

POLICE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 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 at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 19, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

    a) Jonathon Anderson; DPSST No. 64195

              Basic Police Applicant

    b) Jalen Yoder; DPSST No. 54967

Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Police Certifications

4. Tyler Anderson, DPSST No. 49648; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Derek Lizotte, DPSST No. 61672; LaGrande Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Corey Budworth, DPSST No. 55392; Portland Police Bureau

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Criminal Justice Fee Implementation

Presented by Chris Enquist

8. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0085

Codifying Board Approval of the Revisions to the Basic Police Course Subject and Hour Breakdown

Presented by Jennifer Howald

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

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

Presented by Jennifer Howald

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

Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

Presented by Jennifer Howald

11. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

12. Agency Updates

13. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – August 20, 2026, at 10:00 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 Police 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.

ASTORIA, Ore. — Clatsop County and the Fair & Expo Board invite community members to attend a second public open house for the Fair & Expo Strategic Plan update process on Wednesday, May 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Boyington Building in Astoria.
 

The open house will provide an opportunity for the public to review draft recommendations developed through the strategic planning process and provide feedback before the plan is finalized.

“The open house is a great opportunity for community members to see how the feedback and ideas shared through the survey and earlier outreach efforts are being reflected in the draft recommendations,” said Fair Board Chair, Abigale Goodman. “We encourage anyone who participated in the survey as well as anyone interested in the future of the Fair & Expo to attend, ask questions, and continue the conversation before the plan is finalized.”

The Fair & Expo Strategic Plan update is the first comprehensive update since 2009 and is intended to help guide future decisions related to fairgrounds facilities, programming, and community use.

Attendees may drop in at any time during the event to learn more about the proposed recommendations, ask questions, and share comments with project representatives and Fair & Expo Board members.

The strategic planning process has included public outreach, stakeholder discussions, facility and programming review, and community feedback gathered through a public survey and open house held earlier this spring.

The Strategic Plan is expected to be completed by June 30, 2026.

On May 12, 2026, at approximately 1:40 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to reports of a structure fire at the Central Picnic Shelter located in Lewisville Park, 26411 NE Lewisville Highway, Battle Ground, Washington.

Clark County Fire District personnel responded and were able to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading further. Despite those efforts, the shelter was deemed a complete loss.

The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office are actively investigating the fire as a possible arson.

Additional details regarding the investigation, including any potential suspects, are not being released at this time.

A Tigard man has been indicted by a Washington County Grand Jury on 14 charges relating to sex crimes against a minor, including 12 charges that are Measure 11 crimes.

Sithideth Boualywath, age 54, is now in the Washington County Jail.

The Tigard Police Department first learned of this case in March 2026. Detectives who conducted an investigation believe Boualywath repeatedly committed horrific acts against a minor over the course of more than three years.

On April 27, 2026, a judge signed a search warrant for Boualywath’s home. On April 28, 2026, officers preparing to serve the warrant saw Boualywath drive away from the home. Officers conducted a high-risk traffic stop to take Boualywath safely taken into custody, and the warrant was served on his home that same day.

On May 4, 2026, a Washington County Grand Jury heard the case and indicted Boualywath on the following charges:

• Sodomy in the first degree (x2)
• Sexual abuse in the first degree (x8)
• Rape in the first degree
• Unlawful sexual penetration in the second degree (x2)
• Using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct

Details about the identity of the survivor or the relationship to Boualywath will not be disclosed. Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Unit would like to commend the survivor for the bravery shown throughout the investigative process and court process to date. We’d also like to thank our partners at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Forest Grove PD and Beaverton PD for their assistance in the investigation.

If you or someone you love is being abused, you can report it by calling police dispatch at 503-629-0111, the Family Peace Center at 503-430-8300 or the Centralized Child Abuse Reporting Hotline at 855-503-SAFE to reach the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) directly.

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Photos and videos from the early morning fire at Lewisville Regional Park are available in this folder, for media use. Please do not share the folder link with the public. Please use “Clark County” in your photo credits.

More videos will be uploaded this afternoon.

While the park is closed, there is no media access to the Central picnic shelter. We are unable to host a press pool during the investigation.

TACOMA, Wash., May 12, 2026 — Columbia Bank has been named the “Outstanding Lender of the Year” in Washington (Seattle District) by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This marks the fifth time since 2020 the SBA has recognized Columbia Bank for excellence in SBA lending and its commitment to delivering capital to a growing number of businesses across the state.

According to Amy Davis, Director of Business Banking and SBA Production at Columbia Bank, this year’s recognition reflects the bank’s focus to ensure SBA financing goes to the businesses that need it most and to supporting their continued, long-term success.

“This honor speaks volumes about Columbia Bank’s commitment to get working capital to the small businesses that power Washington’s economy,” said Davis. “Small businesses truly are the lifeblood of our communities. I couldn’t be prouder of our entire SBA team for all they do to help entrepreneurs and owners across our footprint turn their vision into reality.”

For fiscal year 2025, Columbia Bank provided nearly $27 million in SBA financing to support the growth of 252 small business owners, helping fund job creation, expansion and economic growth throughout the region.

In fiscal year 2026, Columbia Bank currently ranks as the #15 SBA lender nationally, including:

• #1 in Washington and Oregon
• #3 in Idaho
• #13 in California

The recognition also adds to a growing list of honors Columbia Bank has received so far in 2026.

Columbia Bank’s 2026 honors include:
 

• Crisil  Coalition Greenwich Awards: Best Bank – Satisfaction in Cash Management for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West); Best Bank – Satisfaction with Relationship Manager for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)
• Forbes: America's Best Banks
• Global Finance: Best Bank for Small and Midsize Enterprises, West
• Global Finance: Best Trade Finance Partner, West

Learn more about the solutions Columbia Bank offers to small businesses at www.ColumbiaBank.com.

About Columbia Bank

Columbia Bank is an award-winning preeminent regional bank with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. It combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management. 

• Firing and aerial operations
• Engine drafting and mobile attack
• Weather assessment and its operational impact
• Structure triage and preparation
• Hard line construction
• Crew supervision in live fire environments

• Closed-toe boots
• Nomex pants
• Nomex shirts
• Wildland-rated helmet

Gresham-Barlow School District to hold reunification exercise at Gresham High School on May 20

Exercise will allow staff to practice reunification in the event of a school evacuation

On Wednesday, May 20, the Gresham-Barlow School District (GBSD) will hold a reunification exercise at Gresham High School (GHS). The exercise will allow school staff to practice safely and efficiently reuniting students with their parents.  

Neighbors near Gresham High School can expect to see:

• Increased traffic

• Emergency vehicles

• Staff in high-visibility vests

Please do not be alarmed, this is a planned part of the exercise.

Time of exercise: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Students from Dexter McCarty Middle School will participate in the reunification. They will be transported to GHS by bus during the exercise.

GBSD is directing DMMS families to park at the old Kmart on the corner of NW Eastman Parkway and Burnside. A shuttle bus will take families to and from the site (GHS).

Questions or concerns? Call the GBSD at 503-261-4550 or email gbsd@gresham.k12.or.us.

Thank you for your support as we conduct this safety training.

About Reunification

In the event of a real emergency—such as a natural disaster or a building safety issue—students may need to be moved to an alternate location to be reunited with their families. GBSD’s plan is to use one of its large schools as a reunification site.

ST. HELENS, Ore., May 12, 2026 — Columbia County Parks will begin switching to a new online reservation system, Firefly, on Wednesday to provide campers and park visitors with an easier way to book campsites online.

As part of the transition, online camping reservations will be unavailable for approximately three days while the new system is set up. Parks staff are working closely with both providers to help ensure a smooth transition and reduce disruptions for visitors.

The new Firefly system is designed to make it easier for visitors to search for campsites, make reservations, and manage their stays online.
“We know online reservations are an important part of planning camping trips, and we appreciate everyone’s patience while we make this change,” said Riley Baker, General Services Director. “Our goal is to make the process simpler and easier to use moving forward.”

Visitors with immediate reservation needs are encouraged to complete their reservations before Wednesday.

Columbia County Parks will continue sharing updates and information through its website and social media channels during the transition.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for southwest Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 19 at the OSU Extension – Auditorium, 1134 SE Douglas Ave., Roseburg. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Agency updates
• Abandoned roads inventory
• Forest Practices Technical Guidance update
• Fish survey protocol
• Perennial stream model development
• Committee discussion topics

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

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

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

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
May 12, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OPENS NONPROFIT REGISTRATION FOR 2026 GIVE MORE 24!

Southwest Washington’s largest one-day online giving event returns on Thursday, September 24, 2026

Vancouver, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is excited to announce that nonprofit registration is now open for Give More 24!, Southwest Washington’s largest 24-hour online giving event, taking place on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

Nonprofits serving Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties are invited to register now at GiveMore24.org and participate in this regional fundraising initiative.

Since its launch in 2014, Give More 24! has helped local nonprofits raise more than $18.3 million in support of programs and services that strengthen communities across Southwest Washington.

Designed to make charitable giving easy, engaging, and impactful, Give More 24! connects donors with causes they care about while equipping nonprofits with valuable fundraising tools and resources. Beginning at midnight on September 24, supporters can give throughout the day while watching the community’s collective impact grow in real time.

Participating nonprofits receive access to a secure fundraising platform, marketing and social media toolkits, peer-to-peer fundraising resources, and training opportunities to help maximize visibility and donations. In addition, early giving opens September 8, giving organizations extra time to engage supporters and build momentum ahead of the big day.

Nonprofits interested in participating must complete registration by Friday, July 31, 2026. A sliding-scale registration fee ensures organizations of all sizes can take part and benefit from the event’s extensive promotional and fundraising support.

“The generosity across Southwest Washington is truly remarkable,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “Bringing back Give More 24! last year was an incredible success, demonstrated by the more than $2.3 million raised and the support of over 4,600 individual donors throughout our region.”

“We’re looking forward to growing the impact even further this year by welcoming more nonprofit organizations to participate,” McDonagh added. “We’re already hearing from businesses, donors, and community members eager to support local nonprofits, and we encourage organizations of every size to join us for another inspiring day of generosity.”

Give More 24! is proudly supported by Founding Sponsor Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, along with additional sponsors Davidson & Associates Insurance, Chevron, The Columbian, and IDM Companies.

As the countdown to Give More 24! begins, nonprofits, businesses, donors, and community members are encouraged to get involved and help strengthen Southwest Washington through collective giving.

For more information and nonprofit registration details, visit GiveMore24.org.

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About Give More 24!

Give More 24! is a day of giving dedicated to those who love southwest Washington and the incredible nonprofits that help us thrive. Created by the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington in 2014, Give More 24! equips nonprofits with tools to inspire generosity and raise funds during a 24-hour campaign. To date, nonprofits have raised $18.3 million and engaged thousands of donors through the Give More 24! platform.

In 2024, the Greater Vancouver Chamber began powering Give More 24! as part of its efforts to support the nonprofit community and plans to grow the impact of southwest Washington's largest day of giving.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

Media Assets
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1vzCmW6rdhSKreVCpwk0NqCOQvkHgSlIc?usp=sharing

Scholarship program has awarded more than $180,000 to 43 students since 2019

“These six students represent the very best of Oregon, demonstrating excellence not only in the classroom and athletic competition, but through leadership, perseverance, and service,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We are proud to support their next steps and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their communities and beyond.” 

The OnPoint Scholar Program honors graduating students from OSAA member schools who have earned a 3.50 and above unweighted grade point average (GPA) and have either earned a varsity letter in an OSAA-sanctioned sport or competed in an OSAA-sanctioned activity. The program awards two $10,000 scholarships and four $5,000 scholarships.

$10,000 Scholarship Recipients 

Natalie Kawaguchi 

Mountainside High School, Beaverton School District 

Kiana Cynthia McNeil 

Waldport High School, Lincoln County School District 

Kiana Cynthia McNeil is a standout student-athlete and 2026 valedictorian who has demonstrated exceptional leadership through service and resilience. On the basketball court, McNeil mentors the next generation by officiating youth games, providing individual instruction and organizing a youth basketball camp in partnership with her school’s National Honor Society. In the classroom, she has earned numerous Student of the Year honors while maintaining top academic standing despite the demands of a rigorous schedule. During her senior season, McNeil faced personal adversity when her father was diagnosed with cancer. Despite this, she continued to lead her team to success, recording a quadruple-double, surpassing 1,000 career points and earning first-team all-league honors.

$5,000 winners 

David Villanueva 

David Villanueva is a first-generation Mexican-American student-athlete who emerged as a leader through humility, service and example. Villanueva is a standout in cross country and track and field where he set a school record in the 5,000 meters, qualified for the state championships, and drew interest from Division I programs. He has played a key role in growing participation among Latino students in distance running by mentoring teammates and fostering a strong sense of community within his program. Villanueva also plays the saxophone in band and shares his culture through traditional folk dance performances. In the classroom, he is known for his accountability, collaboration and self-advocacy while managing a rigorous schedule. 

Klamath Union High School, Klamath County School District 

Enterprise High School, Enterprise School District 

Quin Gohr 

Quin Gohr is an exceptional student-athlete and leader who has excelled in academics, athletics, and community involvement. He is a 4.0 student and class valedictorian who is also earning his Associate of Arts through Clatsop Community College. Gohr has served as senior class president, a school board representative and a coordinator for his school’s freshman transition program, demonstrating a commitment to leadership and mentorship. Gohr is a three-sport athlete in football, basketball, and track and field. He has served as a team captain in all three sports, becoming Astoria’s all-time leading scorer in basketball and a state champion in the 400 meters. He also has contributed to community initiatives, helping raise funds for local nonprofits. Gohr plans to study engineering at Oregon State University. 

All graduating seniors who participated in OSAA activities were eligible to apply for a scholarship. Recipients were selected based on letters of recommendation, academic achievement, personal essays highlighting their leadership, community involvement and the impact of OSAA activities on their goals. 

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) wants employers to know that scammers are trying to steal money from them through tactics of misrepresentation.

Oregon OSHA has learned of several recent cases of fraudulent activity involving two types of scams. We are providing information about them to help employers protect themselves. One type of scam involves people calling employers that just had an Oregon OSHA inspection opened. The callers, saying they represent a consultation firm, tell employers they will make sure the inspection results in no violations if the employers send them money. The other type of scam involves people calling employers and falsely claiming to represent Oregon OSHA. These scammers tell employers they can settle an enforcement penalty for them at a reduced amount and to just send them the lower payment.

None of this reflects how Oregon OSHA conducts its programs, services, and processes under the Oregon Safe Employment Act. Likewise, there has been no data or security breach. The scammers are apparently using a publicly searchable federal OSHA enforcement database to locate employers and to commit fraud.

If you get a call from someone claiming to represent Oregon OSHA or making assertions about an Oregon OSHA program, service, or process – and you feel suspicious about it – call 800-922-2689 to check it out. Most interactions with Oregon OSHA may be conducted on its website: https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/index.aspx. You may also directly contact a field office if you feel suspicious about a caller: https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/maps.aspx. Information about Oregon OSHA enforcement and appeals is available at https://osha.oregon.gov/rules/enf/Pages/default.aspx.

The only way Oregon OSHA issues a citation, which can carry a civil penalty, is if an inspection identifies violations of workplace safety or health requirements. If no violations are identified by an inspection, Oregon OSHA considers the inspection to be “in compliance.” Employers have a due process right to file an appeal of a citation. Oregon OSHA accepts penalty payments by mail and online. More details about the citation process are available on our website: https://osha.oregon.gov/rules/enf/Pages/citations.aspx#req

It is important to note, too, that Oregon OSHA provides a full range of free services to employers, including safety and health consultations, answers to questions about safety and health requirements, public education and training, publications, and streaming videos.

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

Portland, Ore., May 12, 2006 – SOLVE and Clackamas Water Environment Services (WES) have officially launched the 2026 Waterway Cleanup Series, continuing their long-standing partnership to protect rivers, streams, and waterways through community-powered cleanup events across the region.

Now in its ninth year, the seasonal initiative brings together volunteers to remove litter from shorelines, parks, and natural areas before it can wash into local waterways and ultimately the Pacific Ocean.

The series kicked off on May 6 with a cleanup at Meldrum Bar Park and Dahl Beach in Gladstone, where 22 volunteers removed more than 250 pounds of litter from the area. Alongside commonly found waste like plastic packaging and cigarette butts, volunteers also pulled two tires, a shopping cart, and a pair of boots from the landscape.

Located along the Willamette River, Meldrum Bar Park, and Dahl Beach are popular destinations for paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and summer recreation. Keeping these spaces clean helps protect aquatic ecosystems while ensuring they remain welcoming and accessible for the community.

Trash left on streets, trails, parks, and riverbanks often travels through storm drains and runoff systems into nearby creeks and rivers. Once in the water, litter can harm wildlife, pollute waterways, and degrade habitat throughout the watershed. Community cleanups play an important role in preventing pollution before it spreads downstream.

“The Waterway Cleanup Series is about protecting the places that connect our communities,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Every cleanup helps prevent pollution from entering our waterways while creating healthier spaces for people and wildlife alike. We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with WES and for every volunteer who takes action throughout the summer.”

SOLVE and WES are encouraging individuals, businesses, schools, and community groups to participate in upcoming cleanup events or organize their own local efforts this season. Cleanup supplies, volunteer support, and event guidance are provided to help communities take action in the places they care about most.

The Waterway Cleanup Series will continue throughout the summer and conclude with a wrap-up cleanup event on September 16 at High Rocks Park in Gladstone along the Clackamas River.

In 2025, more than 1,700 volunteers participated in 60 cleanup events, removing over 31,000 pounds of litter from 19 waterways and natural areas across Oregon and Southwest Washington, including Molalla, Clackamas, Rogue, Tualatin, Sandy, Wilson, Siletz, Elk, Willamette, and Columbia Rivers, Sellwood Riverfront, Johnson Creek, Fox Creek, Spring Creek, Abernethy Creek, Pass Creek, Bear Creek, Deer Creek, Griffin Creek, Hammond Marina, and South Umpqua River. Organizers hope to build on that momentum throughout the 2026 season.

Get Involved:
Explore upcoming events or learn how to organize your own waterway cleanup at
solve.org/waterway-series.

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. Visit solve.org for more information or follow SOLVEPNW on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn.

About Clackamas Water Environment Services

Clackamas Water Environment Services produces clean water, protects water quality and recovers renewable resources. We do this by providing wastewater services, stormwater management, and environmental education. It’s our job to protect public health and support the vitality of our communities, natural environment, and economy. Learn more.

Vancouver, Wash. – Early on Tuesday, May 12, a fire was reported at Lewisville Regional Park. The fire has been extinguished, but to ensure safety and not inhibit the work of responders, the park is CLOSED to the public until further notice. We will provide updates as soon as new information becomes available.

Staff are contacting picnic shelter reservation holders about refunds or moving their reservations to other locations.

Updates will be posted to the park webpage.

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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PHOTO: Quick Start Grad and Intel Operations Manager Atalie Mitchell.

PHOTO: Atalie Mitchell, close up.

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ore. – As Oregon works to meet the growing demand for highly skilled semiconductor workers, Portland Community College has earned a $1.2 million state grant to expand access to training and connect more students to high-wage careers in one of the state’s most critical industries.

The money is part of the Higher Education Coordinating Commission’s $8.5 million in awards from Oregon’s Semiconductor Talent Sustaining Fund to eight institutions and organizations working to build workforce pathways in the semiconductor industry.

PCC’s award will support increased dual-credit and pathway engagement for semiconductor training while sustaining and expanding the college’s Quick Start Semiconductor Technician Training Program. The funding will be used to sustain industry-aligned programs and expand dual credit pathway engagement programs for secondary partners, including externships, student supports and an AI module.

“This investment is a powerful affirmation of Portland Community College’s role in building Oregon’s semiconductor workforce,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “Thanks to this funding, we can connect more students, especially those historically underrepresented in the industry, to life-changing opportunities in this critical industry.”

PCC is one of eight grantees receiving Semiconductor Talent Sustaining Fund support, along with Chemeketa Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, Oregon Institute of Technology, Oregon State University, Oregon STEM, Portland State University and the University of Oregon.

All grantees are active members of Frontiers of Advanced Semiconductor Technology, or FAST, a partnership led by Oregon State University that includes 95 organizations across industry, higher education, government and the nonprofit sector. FAST is also a finalist for a National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engine award that could bring major federal investment to Oregon over the next decade.

Governor Tina Kotek said, “Oregon is a global leader in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation, and these critical investments will keep powering us forward. These funds will help unlock the potential of our colleges and universities to meet our growing workforce demands and elevate future talent across Oregon."

PCC’s Quick Start Program is based at the college’s Willow Creek Opportunity Center, a hub for career and workforce development. Developed through partnerships with Intel, Worksystems, the City of Hillsboro, Washington County and other regional partners, Quick Start is an intensive 10-day course designed to prepare students for entry-level semiconductor manufacturing positions.

Since launching in 2022, the program has graduated nearly 650 students and has become a cornerstone of PCC’s advanced manufacturing workforce development efforts. Quick Start also plays an important role in diversifying the semiconductor workforce by encouraging women, people of color and other underrepresented communities to explore careers in advanced manufacturing.

For more information, visit pcc.edu/semiconductor. 

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.

Update

On May 11, 2026, Detectives from the Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit (DECU) and the Children's Justice Center (CJC) arrested another individual associated with this investigation.

Anna May Hartley was taken into custody and booked into the Clark County Jail for Child Molestation I and Trafficking I. 

Nothing additional is being released at this time. 

Vancouver, Wash. –The ongoing child molestation investigation involving former pediatrician Michael Wilmington, who was found deceased last Saturday, and Chad Hartley, who remains incarcerated in the Clark County Jail, is continuing.

Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit (DECU), have been working diligently to forensically examine digital evidence related to this case. 

On May 7, 2026, Detectives from DECU served a search warrant at a Vancouver residence and  arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail, William J. Sneiderwine, 61, for Conspiracy to Commit Child Molestation I and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

The investigation is continuing and nothing further is releasable at this time.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Colin Fogarty

Director of Communications

ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation Welcomes Regenerative Agriculture Leader to Board of Directors

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Community Foundation’s Board of Directors has a new member who brings deep expertise in regenerative agriculture, rural community development and sustainable land stewardship. Cory Carman was approved by unanimous vote of the Oregon Community Foundation Board of Directors.

“Cory brings a singular voice to our state — one shaped by vision, determination and a deep commitment to reimagining ranching while honoring the way of life and economic vitality of eastern Oregon,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “Her perspective will enrich our board and help us better serve communities across our state.”

Cory Carman is a fourth-generation rancher and a recognized leader in regenerative agriculture, dedicated to advancing sustainable food systems and land stewardship across the Pacific Northwest. As a principal leader of Carman Ranch, a multigenerational family enterprise focused on grass-fed, pasture-raised beef and regenerative land management, she started a meat company and has grown the operation into a collaborative of like-minded ranching families committed to soil health, animal welfare and long-term ecological resilience.

Carman Ranch has built partnerships to serve customers in Portland, including Oregon Health & Science University Hospital, Burgerville, New Seasons Market and restaurants such as Higgins and Urban Famer.

Carman grew up on her family’s ranch in eastern Oregon and holds a degree in Public Policy from Stanford University. Early in her career she worked on Capitol Hill, gaining experience in public policy and governance before returning home to lead and modernize the family business. Under her leadership, Carman Ranch has also expanded through direct-to-consumer distribution, strengthening transparency and the connection between producers and consumers.

“I’ve known about the important work of Oregon Community Foundation,” Carman said. “When I met Lisa Mensah, I was inspired by her vision for deepening OCF’s impact across the state. I'm honored to support the organization as a voice that is rooted in Eastern Oregon's essential contribution to our future.”

In addition to her business leadership, Cory has served on state and federal agricultural committees, including the Oregon Farm Service Agency State Committee, and is an active advocate for climate-smart agriculture and rural communities. She is a member of the International Women’s Forum and has participated in regional and national forums on agricultural and land stewardship policy. She serves on the Oregon Board of Trustees for The Nature Conservancy and the Board of Directors for the Children’s Institute.

Read her full bio here.

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.

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Shady Pines Festival, the immersive, community-built campout hosted by Shady Pines Radio, returns July 16 – 19, 2026, to Camp Tasty’s in Sandy, Oregon. Now in its fifth year, the beloved festival continues to bring an eclectic, genre-spanning lineup to the woods just outside Portland—this time with a special artistic collaboration to mark the milestone.

To celebrate its 5th anniversary, Shady Pines Radio has teamed up with Portland-based artist Wokeface to create its official festival artwork. Known for her psychedelic, joy-forward illustrations, Wokeface’s work explores themes of self-love, connection, and the magic of being alive. Since launching her practice in 2016, her colorful, surreal characters have appeared across murals, street art, and playful merchandise designed to delight the inner child and soften the edges of reality.

“Shady Pines has always been about lifting up Portland’s creative community, so teaming up with Wokeface for our 5th anniversary just felt right,” says founder Brian Bauer. “We’ve loved seeing her work around town for years, and her playful, heartfelt style really matches the spirit of the festival and the community that’s grown around it.”

Produced by Shady Pines Radio, the festival is shaped by volunteers, artists, and attendees who believe in connection over consumption. It’s the kind of place where strangers become campmates, musicians become collaborators, and everyone plays a role in creating the experience.

This year’s lineup features a wide range of local and regional favorites, including Jonny’s Day Out, Hippie Death Cult, Jujuba, Federale, Family Worship Center, Haley Johnsen, Mic Crenshaw, Small Paul, Night Heron, and Los Mal Hablados, with dozens more artists spanning indie, psych, folk, funk, punk, rap, and beyond. In addition to the music, attendees can expect interactive art installations, workshops, local food and craft vendors, and signature Shady Pines moments like the Thursday night Open Mic, Saturday morning kazoo parade, pop-up performances, and delightfully weird surprises around every corner.

Known for keeping things intentionally accessible, Shady Pines offers affordable tickets, food, craft brews and opportunities to attend for free through volunteering. The event is also family-friendly – kids 12 and under get in free, and this year also features kid-centric performances by artists such as Red Yarn and Fooble the Dragon.

Weekend and day passes are available now, as well as special group discounts for purchases of 4 or more adult tickets. Prices will rise as the event date grows closer, so now is the best time to secure a spot at one of the Pacific Northwest’s most welcoming and creatively charged festivals. Volunteer sign-ups and Visual Artist applications are available on the festival’s website for those looking to get involved behind the scenes.

For tickets, volunteer opportunities, or more information, visit www.shadypinesfestival.com.

About Shady Pines Radio
Shady Pines Radio is an online community radio station broadcasting 24/7 via app, website, and smart devices. Home to nearly 100 Portland-area DJs, the station features local and under-the-radar music, comedy, interviews, and experimental programming. Its mission is to energize and support the local arts scene by connecting people through broadcast and in-person events like Shady Pines Festival.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County, participating cities and community stakeholders are recruiting for two volunteers to join a collaborative policy group addressing the issue of homelessness in the community known as ECHO, Ending Community Homelessness Organization.

The recruitment is for individuals with recent lived experience with homelessness in Clark County. Volunteer term length will be approximately 12 months, with opportunities for subsequent extensions. An honorarium of up to $1,000 annually is available for participants, paid monthly after participation in ECHO that month.

The original deadline for applications has been extended to 5 pm Friday, June 5.

ECHO consists of leaders from Clark County, its cities and other key community stakeholders. ECHO exists as a forum to consider homelessness comprehensively and holistically with the goal of identifying possible gaps and opportunities for further coordination and investment.

This group meets regularly the second Tuesday of every month from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Suite 680.

Anyone interested in applying should send a letter of interest to Michelle Pfenning, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

PORTLAND, Ore.— Marvin Yahir Izaguirre-Varela, 22, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in the United States, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, on February 18, 2026, a drug detection K9 alerted to the presence of drugs in Izaguirre-Varela’s bag at the entrance of the Portland train station. Law enforcement officer searched Izaguirre-Varela’s bag and found over one kilogram of fentanyl that he was transporting for the purpose of distribution in Portland.

On March 18, 2026, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Izaguirre-Varela with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Izaguirre-Varela faces a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum of 10 years imprisonment, a $10 million fine, and 5 years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 3, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

Homeland Security Investigations, the Portland Police Bureau Narcotics and Organized Crime Division, and the Amtrak Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kilcup is prosecuting 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.

# # #

Multnomah County Sheriff, Gresham Fire, American Medical Response, Corbett Fire all resonse to a 16mile length of the Sandy River

UPDATE: CORRECT DATE IS MAY 15, 2026

UPDATE #2 MAY 11 2026  1607  Officials will discuss a new hazard on the Sandy River

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MAY 11, 2026) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a crash involving a 47-year-old driver losing control of her SUV and crashing into a baby’s nursery in the Pleasant Valley neighborhood.

This investigation began around 12:15 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026, when the City of Portland’s Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received information about a crash in the 5800-block of Southeast Jenne Road.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Gresham Fire Department arrived to find that a black SUV had traveled down an embankment and crashed into a house, causing significant damage.

Based on the preliminary investigation, a 47-year-old woman driving southbound tried to pass a truck towing a trailer in a no-passing zone. As she moved into the northbound lane, she saw an oncoming vehicle and tried to merge back. During the maneuver, she sideswiped the truck and trailer, lost control, and went down the embankment.

The SUV crashed into a home, specifically impacting a baby’s nursery. Fortunately, the mother had removed the child from the room just minutes before the collision.

The American Red Cross will help the family with temporary housing.

Deputies anticipate issuing the driver a criminal citation for reckless driving and three counts of recklessly endangering another person.

No serious injuries were reported. Paramedics took the driver to a local hospital for evaluation. Deputies did not observe any signs of impairment at the scene.

Due to the nature of the crash, deputies closed Southeast Jenne Road in both directions between Southeast Circle Avenue and Southeast Baldry Street. There is no estimated time for reopening.

Three photos from the scene are being released.

When reporting on this incident, please credit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures public clarity and geographical accuracy.

The photos provided are authorized for use with proper credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

A Public Information Officer (PIO) from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

Image: A black SUV crashed through the side of a house, causing extensive structural damage to the wall and roof. Debris, including broken wood and insulation, is scattered around the vehicle. Multicolored holiday lights are still strung along the damaged roofline.

Image: Five firefighters in tan and red protective gear stand near a black SUV that has crashed through a wooden fence and into the side of a white house. The vehicle is wedged under a collapsed section of the roof, and debris is scattered across the ground in a wooded residential area.

Image: An elevated, behind-the-fence view showing a black SUV lodged into the side of a white house. The impact has caused a partial roof collapse, with roofing material and structural beams visible where the wall used to be. Debris and a broken wooden fence surround the crash site under a clear blue sky.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KCFD1 Responds to Structure Fire on Arthur Street

Klamath County Fire District No. 1 (KCFD1) responded to a reported structure fire in the 1700 block of Arthur Street earlier today involving an abandoned residential structure.

A total of four engines, two ambulances, one Battalion Chief, and one Duty Officer responded to the incident. Klamath Falls Police Department and Klamath County Sheriff’s Office also assisted on scene.

Fire crews arrived to find smoke and fire coming from the vacant residence. Initial observations indicate the fire appeared to have started on the covered porch before extending into the attic space, causing extensive damage to the structure.

KCFD1 crews performed a rapid and coordinated fire attack, quickly locating the seat of the fire and preventing extension to neighboring homes and properties. Their aggressive interior operations and efficient scene coordination allowed the fire to be brought under control in a timely manner despite challenging conditions within the abandoned structure.

No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time. KCFD1 would like to thank the eyewitnesses who noticed the fire and immediately called 911, allowing crews to respond quickly and limit further spread.

KCFD1 also reminds the public that abandoned buildings can present significant safety hazards and encourages residents to report suspicious activity around vacant properties.

What: Oregon Departments of Forestry and Corrections will be training more than 100 adults in custody (AICs) in various areas of wildland fire fighting for the upcoming season. These 10-person crews will then be qualified to deploy to fires and, during extreme fire danger events, will be pre-positioned in high threat areas to reduce response times.  

Visuals: See AICs rotate between four training stations: (All four stations will be going at the same time so news media can rotate between them as desired—these are all hands-on stations.)

Station #1 Pumps/Hose lay—AICs will receive a tour of an engine, learn to operate a Mark III pump, and construct a progressive hose lay.

Station #2 Fire Shelter Deployment—AICs will watch a 25-minute video in the tree cooler then deploy a practice fire shelter on the softball field.

Station #3 Handline construction/Tools—AICs will learn how to construct handline and will learn about each hand tool used in fire line construction.

Station #4 Mop-up—We will light burn piles and AICs will learn the process of mopping up after a fire.

People on-site available to interview: Various AICs participating in the training, ODF staff giving the training, and Forestry and Corrections staff who are assigned and work at South Fork. ODF will also have experts available to talk about May being Wildfire Awareness Month and general information on the upcoming fire season.

When: May 13

Where: South Fork Forest Camp in the Tillamook State Forest. 48300 Wilson River Hwy, Tillamook, OR 97141-9799. It’s about 1.5 miles up a gravel road after the turnoff from the highway.

Time: Meet at 9:30 a.m. (If you come at a later time, we will do our best to get you to all four stations, but you might miss a rotation or two.)

Please send an RSVP by May 12. RSVP to ek.gasperini@odf.oregon.gov">derek.gasperini@odf.oregon.gov. For more information on the fire training contact: Derek Gasperini, ODF public affairs, for South Fork or corrections-related information contact Amber Campbell er.r.campbell@doc.oregon.gov">amber.r.campbell@doc.oregon.gov,  DOC public affairs. (Note: Likely cells phone will not have coverage at South Fork.)

Special note: All AICs have signed photo releases. Some may not want to be interviewed; however, we will have several that will be available.

Background:

Oregon Department of Forestry : Adults in custody rehabilitation : Forest benefits : State of Oregon

Department of Corrections : Locations and Divisions : About Us : State of Oregon

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will continue their four-part series on housing at its May meeting. The COA welcomes professionals from the Bridge Meadows and Cathedral Park CoHousing communities for a discussion about intergenerational housing, as an affordable housing option.

The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 18, and is open to the public.

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

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

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

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department participated in April's “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” by conducting enhanced patrols to locate motorists using cell phones while driving. During the extra patrols, officers made 35 contacts with motorists for the specific offense of operating a vehicle while using a mobile communication device, resulting in 31 citations and 5 warnings. Funding for these extra patrols was made possible through grants and in partnership with Oregon Impact.

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to investigate a sexual assault at a care facility in the Raleigh Hills area. Staff called the police after becoming concerned that a resident was sexually abused by an employee. Deputies responded initially, and a detective from the Violent Crimes Unit was called out to lead the investigation.

Investigators learned the staff member, 25-year-old Oscar Marquez-Alonso, had been employed as a caregiver and had worked at this specific care home for approximately a month. Detectives found evidence that Marquez-Alonso sexually abused an elderly female resident while he was working.

Marquez-Alonso was arrested and lodged at the Washington County Jail on the following charges:

• Sexual abuse in the first degree (two counts)
• Sodomy in the first degree

The investigation is ongoing, and Marquez-Alonso may face additional charges.

Detectives are concerned that there are additional victims. If you are a victim or have additional information, contact the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-26-6407.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, by Oregon House Bill 3273, is releasing Marquez-Alonzo’s booking photo to identify additional criminal activity.

Date: Wed, August 25th, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: Scienceontaporwa.org/events/when-the-window-breaks-how-vision-is-rebuilt/

Whether you have a corneal disease, know someone with vision problems, or are simply curious about how modern medicine can bring sight back, join us to learn about: 

• How the cornea works
• What cause it to become cloudy or scarred
• How treatments work
• How donated tissue can restore sight

Gain a deeper understanding of how damage to this tiny, transparent tissue is among the top causes of global blindness and how advances in eye care are helping people see the world clearly again.

Afshan Nanji, MD, MPH is an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the Casey Eye Institute at OHSU.

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

PORTLAND, Ore. – On May 14, fire restrictions will go into effect for all Bureau of Land Management administered lands throughout Oregon and Washington. The BLM and U.S. Wildland Fire Service leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as warmer, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.

These fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. Starting May 14, the use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns.

"We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness in the Pacific Northwest,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, U.S. Wildland Fire Service, Assistant Chief of Operations, for the Pacific Northwest.

“Every visitor must understand that even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire in these high-impact conditions.”

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

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

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service manages wildfire prevention, response, and recovery across lands administered by the Interior Department. It conducts these operations in close coordination with Interior’s land management agencies. Together, we are fostering fire-resilient landscapes and safeguarding communities.

-BLM-

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

On May 9, 2026, at approximately 10:25 a.m., deputies with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 223, between the communities of Wren and Kings Valley.

The driver and sole occupant of a 1987 Ford Ranger, Tyler Allen Smouse, 18, of Philomath, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle left the roadway for an unknown reason and rolled over. The crash remains under investigation by the BCSO Crash Team.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for a family and a close-knit community,” said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “Our thoughts are with Tyler’s loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable tragedy.”

Highway 223 was closed for approximately three and a half hours during the investigation and roadway cleanup.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office asks anyone who witnessed the crash or has information related to the incident to contact the investigating deputy at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov.

BCSO thanks Philomath Fire & Rescue, Hoskins-Kings Valley Rural Fire Protection District, Oregon Department of Transportation, Corvallis Regional Communications Center, and Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains for their assistance during the response.

SALEM, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is urging everyone to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring. There have already been 23 escaped debris burns for a total of 83 acres reported on ODF-protected land in 2026. Last year at this time, ODF had responded to 37 escaped debris burns for a total of 69 acres.  

Over 70% of wildfires every year in Oregon are human caused, with escaped debris burns topping the list. With record low snowpack and an abnormally warm winter, forecasters are anticipating a hotter and drier summer than usual. As grass and vegetation begin to dry out, the risk of a fire creeping away from a debris burn pile increases. Make sure to weigh your options and have all the required fire prevention tools in place before lighting the burn pile or incinerator.

The Central Oregon District of the Oregon Department of Forestry has already declared a beginning to fire season. This declaration brings regulations based on fire danger level. Restrictions now include requiring a permit to burn debris on private lands in Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Grant, Wheeler, Gillam, Klamath, Umatilla, and Harney counties.

Besides burning, options for brush removal include chipping, composting or recycling. Check with your local disposal company for recycling options. But if burning now is your only option to dispose of yard debris, be sure to follow safe burning practices.

Call before you burn—Regulations vary by location. Call your local district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit. An easy way to check is to use the new tool beforeyouburn.net. Access the website and find the guidance for where you’re located.

Know the weather—Burn early in the day and never burn on windy days because fires can spread out of control more easily.

Always have water and fire tools nearby—When burning, have a shovel and charged water hose—meaning a water hose connected to a reliable water source with the valve open at the source and a nozzle near your burn ready at a moment’s notice— or a bucket of water on hand to put out the fire.

Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile—Make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.

Keep burn piles small—Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, a maximum of 4 feet by 4 feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.

Burn only yard debris—State laws prohibit burning materials, treated wood or trash that create dense smoke or noxious odors.

Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.

Stay with the fire from start to finish—NEVER leave your debris burn unattended. State law requires monitoring debris burn piles at all times, until they are out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.

Put the fire out cold/completely—Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cool to the touch.

Recheck burn piles—Return to the burn site periodically over several weeks to check for heat or smoke and refrain from adding new yard debris on top of old ashes. Burn piles can retain heat for several weeks and rekindle when the weather warms up and winds blow.

Costs of run-away debris burns—State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as any damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.

As the summer fire season quickly approaches, consider putting off any burning until next fall or winter, when conditions are more favorable. Just cover a portion of the pile with plastic, such as a tarp, to keep dry until you decide to burn. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and prevent spring holdover fires.

More tips on wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website. You can check public use restrictions for ODF-protected lands statewide online.

Lane County, Ore. (9 May 2026)- On Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 3:55 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash at the Interstate 5 and Highway 58 interchange. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Explorer, operated by Richard Delbert Hemminger (62) of Eugene, merged onto the Highway 58 offramp and left the eastbound shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The vehicle rolled several times and ejected the operator. He was not believed to be wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

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

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

At 7:41 am on Sunday, May 10 2026, a garage fire was reported on NW Crossing Drive in Bend.  First arriving units found a working fire in the attached garage that had extended into the residence.  The home is one of five attached townhomes, while one other unit had minor damage from smoke and soot, four of the five townhomes are still habitable.  The residence where the fire originated was heavily damaged and is not occupiable.  The homeowner declined Red Cross assistance.  Damage is estimated at $500,000 to the structure, $75,000 contents, and $8,000 to a vehicle parked in front of the garage. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time.

While much of the attention right now is on wildfire risk, keep in mind that house fires can happen at any time.  Ensure that your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, develop and practice a home fire escape plan, and be mindful of common fire safety risks from heating, cooking, and electrical usage.  For more home fire safety information, please visit https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/community-resources-programs/#videos

Vancouver Firefighters are operating at a house fire at 3519 E 21st Street. The 911 call came in around 10:00 AM this morning for reports of a house on fire. The first engine arrived in just 90 seconds and found fire coming from the side of the building. Firefighters used hose lines to start extinguishing the fire, which was found to be vacant with several doors boarded up. It took about 25 minutes to fully extinguish the fire with about 22 firefighters on scene. Nobody was inside the building and no animals were involved. Clark County Fire District 6 sent an engine and a ladder truck to the fire to assist fire fighting efforts. No injuries were reported. Citizens are encouraged to avoid the area until about 12:00 Saturday afternoon to avoid traffic congestion. The Vancouver Fire Marshal's office in on scene investigating the cause of the fire. This report will be updated as further information and pictures become available.  

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

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

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87941653784?pwd=i4siR5r-Wc2a2g6vAJDjTqeCuM5gmg.r7p523k5R3NramTn
Passcode:017162

Or Telephone, dial:

     +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 879 4165 3784
Passcode: 017162

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.

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.

PHILOMATH, Ore. - On May 8, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m., a unified command involving the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) and the Philomath Fire Department (PFD) responded to a structure fire near Northwest Sixth Street and Main Street in Philomath.

During the rapid primary search by firefighters, crews discovered a victim inside the home. The 72-year-old male was rescued from the home immediately and medical crews determined he was deceased. The search continued for additional victims, finding none. Firefighting efforts controlled the fire shortly after.

The cause of death remains under investigation by the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

BCSO closed westbound Highway 20 for approximately two and a half hours during the response and initial investigation.

Structure fires can spread rapidly and may extend into nearby vegetation, especially during dry conditions. Quick action by firefighters prevented the fire from spreading beyond the residence and reduced the risk of a larger wildland fire.

BCSO and PFD thank the Corvallis Fire Department, Philomath Police Department, Oregon Department of Transportation, the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Corvallis Regional Communications Center, and the Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains for their assistance during the incident.

BCSO extends its condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Chaplains accompanied deputies while notifying the victim’s next of kin.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission will hold a series of town hall meetings to get feedback from county residents. The town hall events will be held in each of the five county council districts.

The meetings are scheduled as follows:

• District 1: 10 am to noon Saturday, May 23, Vancouver Community Library, Columbia Room, 901 C St.
• District 2: 3 to 5 pm Sunday, May 17, Bud Van Cleve Room at Luke Jensen Sports Complex, 4000 NE 78^th St.
• District 3: 2 to 4 pm Sunday, June 14, Cascade Park Library, 600 NE 136^th Ave.
• District 4: 3 to 5 pm Saturday, June 6, Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4^th Ave.
• District 5: 1 to 3 pm Sunday, June 7, Moulton Falls Room, Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St.

Charter Review Commissioners will present information on proposed amendments to the county’s charter, seek feedback from town hall participants, and answer questions about the commission’s work. Anyone wishing to provide written comment to the commission may do so via the county’s website.

More information on the Commission’s events is available at https://clark.wa.gov/charter/events.

Any changes to the charter recommended by the Charter Review Commission must go to a countywide vote in a general election. The review commission has set a target of Aug. 4, for submitting any potential changes to the charter to the county Auditor for the November 2026 general election ballot.

Clark County’s home rule charter is the county’s rulebook for how its government is set up and how it operates. It defines roles, powers, elections and processes. It doesn’t set day-to-day policies and cannot override state and federal laws or constitutions.

Fifteen commissioners were elected in November 2025 to serve on the Charter Review Commission. The commission meets at 5 pm on Wednesdays in a hybrid format with both in person and online attendance options. The meetings are held on the sixth floor of the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. To learn how to join online and provide public comment during a meeting visit https://clark.wa.gov/charter/charter-review-commission-2026-2027. Meeting agendas and video recordings are available on the same web page.

Hockinson School District Board of Directors Work Session

Date: 5/11/2026

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Zoom

CORRECTIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Corrections Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on May 12, 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.

Agenda Items:

1.  Introductions

2. Approve February 10, 2026, Meeting Minutes

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

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

a) Randall Daniels; DPSST No. 48116
Basic and Intermediate Corrections Certifications

b) Tyler Ostrom; DPSST No. 63369
Basic Corrections Certification

4. DeAndre Brown, DPSST No. 61256; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

Presented by Cindy Park

5. Garrett Piel, DPSST No. 63834; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Jacob Pratt, DPSST No. 61212; Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

Presented by Kathy McAlpine

8. DOC Request for CPC Approval – Pilot of Revised Corrections Course (BCC)

Presented by John Taber

9. Approval for DPSST Support of a Pilot of Revised Basic Corrections Course (BCC) Curriculum

Presented by Chris Enquist

10. Criminal Justice Fee Implementation

Presented by Chris Enquist

11. Basic Parole and Probation Curriculum Revision

Presented by Jason Ridgeway

12. Basic Corrections Firearms Workgroup Report

Presented by Jennifer Howald

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

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

      Presented by Jennifer Howald

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

Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

Presented by Jennifer Howald

15. Agency Updates

16. Next Corrections Policy Committee Meeting: August 11, 2026, at 10:00 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 Corrections 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.

May 8, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Oregon Community Foundation Announces Building Hope Fund to Invest in Middle-Income Housing in Oregon

$100 million down payment designed to attract more financing to build homes

PORTLAND, Ore. – With Oregonians facing a severe housing shortage, Oregon Community Foundation is stepping up with a bold new commitment: A $100 million down payment to inspire even larger investments in Oregon housing.

Oregon Community Foundation President and CEO Lisa Mensah announced today the creation of the Building Hope Fund to provide loans to home builders across Oregon. The fund's goal is to help finance 10,000 new housing units for middle-income Oregonians over 10 years.

The Building Hope Fund is a vehicle for impact investing. In addition to traditional grantmaking, impact investing is a powerful way to put capital to work to address the state’s most pressing issues. The Building Hope Fund will use Oregon Community Foundation’s investment capacity to provide flexible financing to developers who are ready to build homes for sale and rental housing across Oregon.

Oregon is currently building only about half of the 30,000 units needed every year to pull the state out of its housing crisis. The shortage is especially acute for housing designed for middle-income Oregonians. 

“We hear it from business owners all the time: Jobs are sitting empty, and opportunities are unrealized because working families cannot find housing,” said Mensah. “We will invest in housing for middle-income Oregonians — restaurant servers, bartenders, nurses, small business owners, construction workers, teachers — and offer reasonable loans to developers so they can get busy building.”

Mensah said the Building Hope Fund will begin with $100 million in seed funding with the intention of bringing in other partners, including investors, donors, businesses, other foundations and financial institutions, to grow the fund and multiply its impact across rural and urban communities statewide.

“There's a reason they call it the ‘missing middle,’” said Anna Mackay of Shortstack, a home builder in the Portland region. “Private capital builds market-rate housing; public funding supports deeply affordable homes. But middle-income housing falls through the gap. Home builders like us often have to piece together a dozen complicated funding sources for a single project. Oregon Community Foundation is paving the way. The Building Hope Fund is a galvanizing step toward housing more Oregonians.”

Union County homebuilder Gust Tsiatsos said that more remote areas like Eastern Oregon are overlooked by developers of large housing projects. Incomes are lower, and buyers have few options.

“We would like to reward and serve our working population by building more homes they can afford,” Tsiatsos said, adding that he has projects awaiting development in La Grande, Baker City and Ontario that could bring 67 homes to the region but are stuck for lack of affordable financing.

“Eight years ago, I could build for around $125 a square foot, and now we’re pushing $400 a square foot,” Tsiatsos said. “Affordable financing is one of the biggest challenges.”

Project Turnkey

Oregon Community Foundation has a strong track record in housing investments. After the pandemic and devastating wildfires in 2020, state leaders turned to OCF for Project Turnkey to quickly distribute $125 million in grants to convert underused motels into shelter and transitional housing. The initiative increased the state’s supply of emergency year-round shelter beds by 30 percent.

Oregon Impact Fund

Oregon Community Foundation will continue to operate the Oregon Impact Fund, a $33 million fund that lends to nonprofit organizations, tribal enterprises and for-profit social ventures in Oregon that create impact in affordable housing, education, health care access, natural resource management and job creation in underserved communities.

“Both Project Turnkey and the Oregon Impact Fund show what can happen when a foundation responds to a genuine crisis by adding to our traditional role as a grants-and-scholarships institution,” Mensah said.

Oregon Community Foundation will continue grantmaking to nonprofits throughout Oregon, including working in partnership with organizations building affordable housing and addressing homelessness. The Building Hope Fund is not yet ready to begin providing loans. More information will be available for developers in the coming months.

About Oregon Community Foundation 

Oregon Community Foundation was founded in 1973 with a mission to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF works to strengthen communities in every county in Oregon through research, grantmaking and scholarships. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org. 

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For more information, contact PWB Communications Manager Felicia Heaton, 971-940-8933.

Today, the Portland Water Bureau is returning to 100 percent Bull Run water. A leak on a supply conduit in the Bull Run Watershed required us to supplement the Bull Run supply with groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field. The conduit has been repaired and returned to service, enabling us to fully return to serving water from the Bull Run.

Water Operations Director Kimberly Gupta praised the crews who rapidly responded to identify the cause of the leak and repair it in less than 36 hours.

“They do this kind of work year-around in the middle of the forest, in the middle of the street, in the middle of the night. Next time you reach for a glass of Portland water, make sure to toast the crews who rapidly respond to keep our system running strong.”

It can take up to two weeks for customers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water at their taps, depending on their location.

Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to approximately 900,000 people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With nearly 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

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Review of Board of Forestry March meeting
• Department of Forestry’s performance measures

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

This standing board committee recommends policies (or policy changes) to the board pertaining to governance issues and processes including the oversight and management of the Board Policy Manual, orientation and training of new board members, the evaluation and improvement of the board, the repository of board materials, and oversight of the written conflict of interest policies, procedures, and review of annual or special statements of board members. Learn more about the committee.

UPDATE - DISASTER RESPONSE EXERCISE PLANNED FOR MAY 15 AND 16

May 8, 2026 – Newport, Ore.

Correction made on May 8 at 9:15 am - Original medial release did not indicate that this event is closed to the public. 

NEWPORT, Ore. (May 08, 2026) – For the first time, Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital and Lincoln County Emergency Management will co-host the Oregon Health Authority-sponsored Pathfinder exercise. This full-scale mass casualty disaster response exercise is planned for May 15-16. This event is closed to the public and only registered participants can attend. More than 100 military members, medical personnel, student nurses, and civilians will participate in this annual Oregon training event.

“This full-scale exercise simulates a catastrophic Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake and tsunami. It focuses on the critical window when coastal communities are isolated, overwhelmed, and operating with severely limited infrastructure,” said Dr. Eric Gebbie, Director of Emergency Operations, Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

“It’s important during a crisis that all agencies understand and use a common language, align communications technologies, and build shared processes to strengthen coordination,” said Dr. Gebbie. “It takes practice to make that happen. This exercise brings together hospital, local, state, and federal partners to do just that.”

The drill begins on Friday afternoon with lecture-based training for participants at the Samaritan Center for Health Education. Early Saturday morning, community members who have volunteered to be pretend victims will arrive at the center to receive their assignments and moulage – special effects makeup depicting injuries. The training will extend into clinical areas of the hospital (where patients are not seen on weekends), so Emergency Department staff can train on the triage process, skills, patient flows and tracking.

“My staff will take turns participating in the training, so there will be no impact on care given to actual emergency patients we may have at that time,” said Pamela Halbrook, Samaritan’s regional Emergency Services Manager. “We’re excited to have this opportunity for hands-on training that will sharpen our skills and help us be a more cohesive team when the need arises.”

Local participants in the exercise include Lincoln County first responders, Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, Lincoln County Emergency Management, City of Newport, Lincoln County Public Health, U.S. Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Life Flight Network. State participants include Oregon Disaster Medical Team, OHA’s Health Security Preparedness and Response program staff and SERV-OR volunteers, Oregon National Guard, Salem Hospital, and Oregon Health & Sciences University.

OHA leveraged $25,000 of its funding through the U.S. Health and Human Services Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program to pay for the exercise. This, along with the federal Healthcare Preparedness Program, provides states, counties, and hospitals with resources to support disaster preparedness activities. Activities covered by the funds include planning, training, and exercising.

While local, state, and federal partners gather to practice response, this gives communities another reminder of the importance of personal preparedness. Take time today to review your family emergency plan or check items in your emergency kit. Learn more about how to be Four Week Coastal Cascadia Ready at our website: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/790/Plan-Prepare

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May 7, 2026

Portland, OR-Noureddine Dib, 43-years-old, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for the attempted murder of Michael Zakarneh. Given the circumstances of the shooting, prosecutors sought  more than the minimum sentence of 7.5 years. 

The defendant and victim arrived at the Islamic School of Portland on October 17, 2024 to pick their children from school. The two fathers had a disagreement in the parking lot that resulted in Mr. Dib shooting Mr. Zakarneh in the abdomen. Mr. Zakarneh fled for his life and the defendant continued to pursue him, shooting in his direction at least once more. Mr. Zakarneh leapt down a flight of stairs, towards the school, and shattered the bones in his right ankle. Mr. Dib chased Mr. Zakarneh around the school before going inside. Mr. Zakarneh escaped to a neighboring gas station where good samaritans rendered aid and called 911. The Portland Police Bureau arrested Mr. Dib without incident. 

In April, a Multnomah County jury convicted the defendant on the charges of Attempted Murder, Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Discharge of a Firearm, and Reckless Endangerment.

Deputy District Attorney Eric Palmer prosecuted the case for the state. Afterward he said:

“I think the sentence is appropriate for the circumstances. It does address not just the injury caused to Mr. Zakarneh but the fact that this occurred at a school, the last place an attempted murder should ever take place.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detectives Sara Clark and Laurent Bonczijk for their excellent work on this case.

                                                                ###MCDA###

Framework helps shield residential and small business customers from added costs while enabling growth in the region 

Portland, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utilities Commission approved key elements of Portland General Electric’s proposals for charging customers based on their contribution to growth. The decision means that data centers will pay more for new infrastructure that supports their growth.  

"The decision reflects an important step toward balancing growth, reliability and affordability for Oregon customers,” said John McFarland, Chief Customer Officer. “As energy demand grows, it is critical that the costs of new infrastructure are allocated fairly and transparently. Our focus remains on maintaining reliable service, supporting economic development and protecting residential and small business customers from unnecessary cost impacts.” 

The Commission's order establishes an important new regulatory framework for serving large load customers and adopts several core components proposed by PGE, including: 

• A new customer classification, Schedule 96: The order adopts PGE’s proposal to establish a dedicated customer class for large load data centers, recognizing the unique scale, infrastructure needs, and growth impacts associated with these customers.   
   
• Growth based cost allocation: The Commission approved PGE’s proposed peak growth modifier, with some modifications. The PGM is designed to fairly allocate costs to customer groups that are growing the most.
   
• Customer protections against stranded assets: The Commission adopted PGE’s proposals for exit fees and minimum charges with some modification.  Exit fees and minimum charges ensure that data centers commit to a certain level of payment, protecting families and small businesses from the costs of stranded assets.  
   
• Special contracts to support clean energy development: The Commission also adopted PGE's proposal preserving the opportunity for case-by-case special contracts that could enable large customers to directly support new clean energy resources and infrastructure investments while facilitating more efficient interconnection timelines. 

Today’s order reflects the growing need for modern regulatory frameworks as Oregon experiences unprecedented electricity demand growth driven by advanced manufacturing, technology development, and data center expansion. PGE will continue working with stakeholders and regulators on implementation details and additional policy considerations identified in the order. 

Read the full decision from the Public Utilities Commission of Oregon: https://apps.puc.state.or.us/orders/2026ords/26-154.pdf  

The Beaverton Police Department is warning the public about an organized theft crew believed to be operating throughout at least five western states by targeting gyms, fitness centers, and workout facilities.

The group’s method of operation involves stealing wallets, credit cards, and personal belongings from gym patrons while they are working out. The suspects then quickly travel to nearby retail stores, commonly Costco and Best Buy, where they rapidly make large purchases before victims realize their cards have been stolen or are able to cancel them.

The suspects often target high-value items including electronics, gold bars, and jewelry.

An April 30^th case in Beaverton involved three male suspects who investigators believe are connected to this organized theft crew. In that incident, a victim’s credit card information was stolen after the victim visited a gym in Beaverton.

Investigators learned one of the suspects fraudulently obtained a Costco membership using the victim’s identity before the group used the stolen credit card to purchase $18,759.96 worth of gold bars from a Costco store in Beaverton.

The suspects are described as Eastern European males, and investigators believe they may be involved in similar theft and fraud cases throughout the western United States.

Anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Beaverton Police Department through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 or email Detective Mat Groshong at oshong@beavertonoregon.gov">mathewgroshong@beavertonoregon.gov.

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DALLAS (OR) – Today, a Polk County judge found Enrique Canales, age 42, guilty on all charges related to his sexual abuse of an adult family member. Deputy District Attorney Shannon Clausen prosecuted this case before Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park.

In 2025, the victim reported three acts of abuse to the Independence Police Department. Based on the ensuing investigation, police arrested Canales, of Independence, that same day. In February of 2026, Canales failed to appear for his first scheduled trial. Today, Judge Park also found Canales guilty of Contempt of Court for that matter.

The Polk County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for bravery in reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the hard work of the Independence Police Department.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 26 at 9:00.

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Theatre Department will present Green Day’s musical “American Idiot” as its spring main stage production.

The two-time Tony Award-winning hit musical, based on the Grammy Award-winning multiplatinum album, boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. This high-octane punk rock opera includes every song from Green Day’s album “American Idiot” as well as several songs from its follow-up release, “21^st Century Breakdown.”

“American Idiot” follows three disenfranchised friends – Johnny, Will and Tunny – fleeing suburban boredom for city life. Amidst post-9/11 paranoia, they face disillusionment, war, drugs and romance in a raw quest for meaning. It is a story of rebellion, lost innocence and finding individuality in a hyped-up, “idiot” America.

Directed by Allison Moon with musical direction by Dave Cole, “American Idiot” features a dynamic ensemble of CCC students, with scenic and lighting design by Chris Whitten, prop design by Allison Moon, costumes by Aiden McFarland and choreography by Wesley Roberts.

“American Idiot” runs May 21-31, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

The community is invited to an opening night reception in the Niemeyer Lobby on May 21 at 6:30 p.m., featuring music by Tokyo Joe and complimentary refreshments with the purchase of a ticket. Those who attend the opening night reception will be entered into a drawing to win Green Day merchandise.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors (62+) and free for all students. Tickets are discounted by $1 if purchased online. Visit www.clackamas.edu/theatre or call 503-594-3153 for reservations.

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The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive Session & Working Session Meeting on Monday, May 11, 2026 in the Parkrose High School Library located at 12003 NE Shaver St., Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

Please also join us for the Annual Central East Portland Rotary 3rd Grade Writing Contest Awards Ceremony starting at 5:30pm in the High School Library.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: staff wellness update, long range facilities assessment report, consent agenda, tax anticipation note update, board self evaluation results, osba summer conference, legislative advocacy update and student representative election process. 

Electronic/Virtual Public Comment Protocol - If you wish to submit a public comment before, or during this Board Meeting please fill out this electronic public comment form before "Public Comments" on the agenda: https://forms.gle/5sUjRZjxJikqmqVg9. If you don’t submit your comment in time we will read it at the next board meeting.

In-Person Public Comment Protocol - Upon arrival at the meeting, please fill out an Intent-to-Speak card and hand it to the Board Assistant prior to "In-person Public Comment" on the agenda. You will have a 3 minute time limit.

Board Meeting Video Recordings - For those of you who cannot attend we will post a recording of the meeting on our website at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2114.

Editors: Videos of Linda Novitski, Ph.D., discussing cyanobacteria blooms and advisories are available on OHA’s Media Resources page.

May 7, 2026

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

Cyanobacteria bloom season is here: When in doubt, stay out

PORTLAND, Ore.—With summer just around the corner, Oregon agencies have begun their annual monitoring of the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs for the presence of toxic cyanobacteria blooms.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) launched their seasonal freshwater surveillance activities earlier this week, as increasing temperatures raise the risk of cyanobacteria harmful algae blooms (cyanoHABs) in water bodies.

Cyanobacteria are beneficial bacteria found in all fresh water worldwide, but they can multiply into blooms under the right conditions, such as warm weather, sunlight, water temperature, nutrients and water chemistry. Many blooms are harmless, but some can produce cyanotoxins that make people and animals sick.

“When temperatures rise, many people head to their favorite water bodies to cool off, but those higher temperatures can also promote toxic cyanobacteria growth,” said Linda Novitski, Ph.D., recreational waters specialist in the Environmental Public Health Section at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Our goal is to inform people about the risks of exposure when recreating and reduce cases of illness due to cyanoHABs.”

Exposure to cyanotoxins occurs when water is swallowed while swimming, or when people inhale water droplets during high-speed activities such as water-skiing or wakeboarding. Symptoms of exposure to cyanotoxins include:

• Diarrhea
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Numbness
• Dizziness and fainting

Although cyanotoxins are not absorbed through the skin, people with sensitive skin can develop a red, raised rash when wading, playing or swimming in or around a bloom.

Children and pets are particularly sensitive to illness because of their size and activity levels. Similarly, livestock and wildlife can become ill and die after drinking from water bodies, troughs or other sources affected by blooms and potential toxins.

Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. It is very important to get a pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible if they exhibit diarrhea, vomiting, breathing problems, difficulty walking or standing, or loss of appetite.

During cyanoHABs season, DEQ and local partners collect water samples at water bodies around the state with heavy recreational use, a history of cyanobacteria blooms, or where a bloom is visible. Samples are sent to a laboratory for testing; OHA analyzes the results and decides if an advisory should be issued.

Very few freshwater bodies in Oregon are monitored for cyanotoxins. For this reason, it is important for people to carefully observe any water body they choose to recreate in before taking the plunge.

OHA recommends that everyone not swim or do high-speed boating in water that is foamy, scummy, thick like pea-green or blue-green paint, or where brownish-red mats are present. Additionally, since blooms can wash up on the shore, people should avoid areas with algal mats that are either attached, floating or stranded on the shore.

Even then, looks can be deceiving. Certain blooms grow on or near the bottom of water bodies such as lakes and rivers. While some blooms make and release toxins into the water, they don’t change how the surface of the water looks, making them hard to see.

Community members looking for visual examples can find pictures of algae blooms in the Algae Bloom Photo Gallery or watch an explainer video on blooms at OHA’s official YouTube channel. If you are unsure, follow OHA’s guidance of “When in doubt, stay out.”

Open recreational areas where blooms are confirmed can still be enjoyed for activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking and bird watching. By being aware of signs of a bloom and taking appropriate precautions to reduce or eliminate exposure, people can enjoy water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and boating as long as boat speeds do not create excessive water spray. Fish can be eaten if they are cleaned with water from a clean water source and fat, skin, and organs are removed before eating.

To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the OHA Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0440. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.

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View this release online. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (May 7, 2026) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit is issuing a safety advisory for community members utilizing the Sandy River between Oxbow Regional Park and Dabney State Recreation Area.

Following a powerful storm cycle in December 2025, the river’s path has naturally shifted, creating new and potentially significant hazards for recreational users.

Rivers are dynamic, meaning their paths are subject to change during high-flow events. South of Camp Angelos, the Sandy River previously flowed north with the primary channel located east of a prominent wooded island. Following the December 2025 storms, the primary current now flows to the west side of that same island.

This is a critical point of education for the public: current satellite imagery and GPS mapping have not yet been updated to reflect this new topography.

Image: Aerial drone view looking southeast (upstream) at the Sandy River, showing a large sand bar in the foreground. The river channel has shifted to the right (west), hugging a steep forested bank as it flows toward new hazards located near a wooded island in the distance.

The change in the river’s course has introduced "strainers" – fallen and submerged trees – directly into the new primary channel. The current now pulls watercrafts and swimmers toward these obstructions.

Due to the combination of water depth, submerged rocks, and these new tree hazards, this section now contains small rapids -- making navigation difficult or unexpected.

Users may find themselves unable to bypass debris, potentially forcing them to abandon their crafts. Recent patrols have documented several abandoned inner tubes caught in the newly formed debris fields.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit has posted warning signs at both Oxbow Regional Park and Dabney State Recreation Area.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit encourages everyone to be prepared for unexpected river conditions. Before launching at Oxbow Regional Park, ensure you are equipped with the following:

• Life jackets - A properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket should be worn at all times while on the water.

• Communication Tools – Keep a loud, waterproof sound-signaling device (such as a whistle) attached to your person or life jacket.

• Lights – If you anticipate being on the water near dawn, dusk or night, carry waterproof lights.

• Situational Awareness – Do not rely on outdated digital maps. Maintain a constant visual watch for unmarked hazards and be prepared.

To provide a visualization, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is releasing drone footage and photographs of the affected area, which were taken May 6, 2026.

When reporting on this advisory, please credit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures public clarity and geographical accuracy.

The photos and drone video provided are authorized for use with proper credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Image: Aerial view of a river diversion around a wooded island, showing a hazardous collection of fallen logs blocking the left channel and a large sandbar on the right.

###

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved a new rate structure for large data centers and other large-load customers served by Portland General Electric (PGE). The decision creates Schedule 96, a new rate class required under House Bill 3546 (2025), also known as the POWER Act, to ensure that the fast-growing electricity needs of data centers do not contribute to increasing utility bills for Oregon households and small businesses served by investor-owned utilities.

The PUC opened the investigation in response to concerns about the impact of large loads raised in prior PGE rate case proceedings. The passage of the POWER Act created an additional statutory foundation for our work. The POWER Act echoes the longstanding regulatory principle that customer groups pay for the costs driven by their group, which ensures that large customers pay the full and fair cost of the infrastructure needed to support their operations.

The PUC’s decision ensures that data centers’ utility bills reflect the specific costs of serving their loads and protects residential and commercial customers from subsidizing the infrastructure needed for rapid large-load growth. The structure provides data centers clarity on what they must do to take service from PGE and allows them to reduce their costs by limiting their impact on the grid through efficiency and flexibility. Finally, the tariff requires that data centers pay for the emissions-free electricity required to serve their loads while meeting Oregon’s clean electricity mandates.

In addition to creating Schedule 96, the PUC adopted new contract requirements that will apply to all future agreements between PGE and data center customers. These requirements include predictable charges if a data center does not use the infrastructure PGE has built to serve them and a requirement that there are sufficient clean energy resources available before a large customer can take service.

Very large loads can also push up the cost of the energy and equipment needed to serve other customers. To address these less direct impacts from the largest facilities, the PUC approved a 1-cent per kilowatt-hour surcharge for Schedule 96 customers with 100 megawatts or more of allocated system capacity. Revenue from the surcharge will support programs meant to offset costs for residential customers, including programs that help low-income households reduce energy burdens.

“Oregonians should not bear the costs of explosive data center growth and data centers should be focused on limiting their overall impact,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “This decision ensures the largest energy users in PGE’s service area pay their fair share, have clarity and predictability as they make business decisions and support the programs that keep our grid reliable and our communities strong.”

The Commission approved a similar large load tariff for Pacific Power in Docket UE 433, their 2024 general rate case. Late last year, Pacific Power proposed and the Commission is now considering an updated data center-specific tariff that directly addresses the POWER Act in Docket UE 463.

May 7, 2026       

Portland, OR - Allen Easley, nicknamed the Grinch by some after he was caught on camera stealing wrapped Christmas presents from a family’s home, is heading to prison for 10 years and 8 months. He was sentenced May 6, 2026.

The sentence follows his convictions for the following crimes:

25CR72325

Burglary in the First Degree – Occupied Dwelling

Burglary in the First Degree with a Firearm

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

26CR03181

Burglary in the Second Degree

26CR23444

Supplying Contraband

Deputy District Attorney Alex Garcia - lead of the Multnomah County Burglary Task Force -  prosecuted the case for the State. After the sentencing yesterday he said: 

“Mr. Easley’s actions forever changed the lives of several people and warranted a long prison sentence of 128 months. I hope the sentence is a wake up call for Mr. Easley. Should he continue to do what he has been doing, there will be severe consequences. I sincerely hope that he moves on from this life and makes better choices.”

Easley is 39 years old and has a criminal history that dates back to age 18. He has five prior convictions for Burglary in the First Degree, four prior convictions for Burglary in the Second Degree, and six prior firearm related convictions.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Officer Michael Stevens and the Burglary Task Force for excellent work on this case.

We’d also like to thank Multnomah County District Attorney’s Victim Advocate Kelly Eoff for the care and compassion they showed victims during this case.

                                                  ###MCDA###

The Clackamas Community College Budget Committee will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, in Roger Rook Hall, RR 111 A & B, beginning at 6:00 PM. This will be an in-person meeting without public comment and can be watched via YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@ClackamasCommunityCollege-Boar. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@ClackamasCommunityCollege-Boar.

The proposed budget can be found on the website located here: https://www.clackamas.edu/docs/default-source/about-us/leadership/budget-committee/2026-27-proposed-budget.pdf?sfvrsn=da98646b_1. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.clackamas.edu/docs/default-source/about-us/leadership/budget-committee/2026-27-proposed-budget.pdf?sfvrsn=da98646b_1

PRINEVILLE, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District is declaring the beginning of fire season on May 8, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. Starting Friday, the district’s fire danger level will be “Moderate,” and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one) in Hood River and Wasco counties.

With record low snowpack, relatively low spring rain in lower elevations, and anticipated high temperatures, fine fuels—such as grasses—in the district have begun to dry out. So far this year, the district has experienced 13 fires burning 27.66 acres, of which half were escaped debris burns. Escaped debris burns are the number one human cause of fires in Oregon. Most Central Oregon counties have already enacted debris burn bans. You can visit beforeyouburn.net to see local conditions and regulations for outdoor burning.

The declaration of fire season brings regulations based on fire danger level. Regulated activities are those known to cause fires and following regulations will help reduce fire starts. Moderate fire danger level prohibits the following activities within ODF protection:

• No debris burning, including piles and burn barrels, unless permitted by the local forester.
• Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
• No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.

In addition to the fire prevention requirements for industrial operations under IFPL I (one), a fire watch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on conditions throughout the fire season. Be sure to check the fire danger level and restrictions in your local area or the area you’re traveling to.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to not become complacent in wildfire prevention. The fewer human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.

ODF’s Central Oregon District protects state and private lands in Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Grant, Wheeler, Gillam, Klamath, Umatilla, and Harney County. For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

For local ODF burn information, please call:

Prineville-Sisters Unit – (541) 447-5658

John Day Unit – (541)-575-1139

The Dalles Unit – (541) 296-4626

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery annual student art show runs May 12-June 3. An awards reception will be held May 12, noon-1 p.m., and guest judge Paula Bullwinkel will announce awarded works.

The exhibition showcases the finest artwork made by CCC students during the academic year in disciplines including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, digital design, jewelry making and more.

The Alexander Gallery is located in the Niemeyer Center on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the exception of holidays.

This exhibition is free and open to the public. For questions, contact Kate Simmons at 503-594-3032 or kates@clackamas.edu. For more information on Clackamas Community College’s art exhibits and performances, visit www.clackamas.edu/art.

-30-

Vancouver, Wash. – On April 27, 2026, detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Children’s Justice Center began investigating the report of a sexual assault of a child.

On May 1, 2026, Vancouver Police executed a search warrant at the residence of Darold A. Slack. Investigators learned that Slack has been a foster parent to approximately 55 children in Vancouver between 2013-2025.

Slack was arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail on numerous charges including Child Molestation II (x5), Rape of a Child II (x3), Rape III, Assault IV (x2), Sexual Misconduct with a Minor (x2), and Communications with a Minor for Immoral Purposes.

Police believe there may be additional victims who have not come forward. Anyone with information related to possible child abuse by Darold Slack, and who have not spoken with police, are asked to contact Vancouver Police Department Children’s Justice Center Detective Cpl. Gunnar Skollingsberg at .skollingsberg@cityofvancouver.us">gunnar.skollingsberg@cityofvancouver.us.

This investigation is continuing and nothing additional is being released at this time.

###

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (7 May 2026) – On Tuesday, May 5, 10:24 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 61.5 in Wasco County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a fully loaded, blue Peterbilt semi-truck with trailer, operated by Larry Wayne Lorenz (60) of Spokane (WA), was traveling southbound on Highway 97 near Bake Oven Road when it struck a pedestrian walking in the travel lane. The pedestrian, Lutah Avis Wallulatum (42) of Warm Springs, was subsequently struck by a second unknown vehicle in the northbound travel lane. She is believed to have been walking along the highway after the vehicle she was traveling in broke down a short distance from the crash location.

The pedestrian (Wallulatum) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Peterbilt (Lorenz) was reportedly not injured. He remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.

The highway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours for the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by South Wasco County EMS, Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Investigators are seeking witnesses or anyone who may have been traveling in the area at the time. They are especially interested in information from people who were between mileposts 57 and 68 on Highway 97 (between Shaniko and the Cow Creek Rest Area) on May 5, 2026, between 10 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., and who may have seen pedestrians or reported possibly striking an animal in the area during that time. Anyone with information is asked to call Oregon State Police dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-146196.

# # #

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

SALEM, Ore. – The State Forests Advisory Committee will host a tour in the Tillamook State Forest on May 14 and meet on May 15 in Forest Grove and the meeting will have a virtual option via Teams.

The public is welcome at both events. The field tour agenda and meeting agenda are posted on the SFAC webpage.

Details

Field tour: RSVP is requested for the field tour on May 14. See agenda for meeting locations and times. Tour attendees should provide their own lunch, refreshments, and transportation suitable for traveling on forest roads. Please RSVP no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, to Nick Palazzotto, nick.palazzotto@odf.oregon.gov, 971-375-6344.

SFAC meeting: The committee will meet from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 15, at the ODF Forest Grove District Office, 801 Gales Creek Road. Topics on the agenda include reflections on the tour, division updates, Forest Management Plan (FMP) / Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) updates, division staffing update, current operational status, and draft FY27 Annual Operations Plan (AOP). The public will have the opportunity to provide comments virtually or in person at the beginning of the meeting.

SFAC’s role

The State Forests Advisory Committee (SFAC) is comprised of citizens and representatives of timber, environmental and recreation groups as well as a representative from one of Oregon’s federally-recognized tribes. The SFAC provides a forum to discuss issues, opportunities and concerns, and offer advice and guidance to ODF on the implementation of the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The plan provides guidance for managing 640,000 acres within the Tillamook, Clatsop and Santiam state forests, and scattered state-owned forest tracts in West Oregon and Western Lane Districts through a balanced approach to generate revenue while prioritizing environmental and social benefits.

Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Nick Palazzotto, nick.palazzotto@odf.oregon.gov, 971-375-6344.

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (7 May 2026) – On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 4:48 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian fatal crash on Highway 99W near milepost 110.5 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Hyundai Elantra, operated by a 16-year-old female, was traveling southbound on Highway 99W near Junction City when the operator became distracted, left the travel lane, and struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian, Joel Robert Benjamin Coriell (35) of Junction City, had been walking along the southbound shoulder of the highway.  

The pedestrian (Coriell) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries and later died at the hospital.

The operator of the Hyundai had reported minor injuries. She remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.

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

OSP was assisted by the Junction City Police Department, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   
 

# # #

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

HIKING SAFETY   
 

Part of the beauty of Oregon is the hiking opportunities throughout the state. Hiking can be a fun and healthy activity for the whole family. But without proper planning, even a short hike could turn into a dangerous situation. In 2024 our Search and Rescue Team responded to 10 reports of missing or lost individuals that needed specialized assistance. Before you hit the trails, remember these hiking safety tips.

1. Make a Gear List

Whether you're hiking for three hours or three days, you don't want to forget something important. Create a gear list to make sure you have everything you need. Some items to include are:

• Water
• Water filtration such as a filter straw or a filtration waterbottle
• Rain gear and additional climate-appropriate clothing
• Compass
• Map
• Extra food
• First aid supplies
• Cell phone or radio with backup batteries

2. Bring a Map

Bringing a map and becoming familiar with the area before you hike is so important. You should never rely solely on GPS technology especially with limited service and battery power. Always pack a map and make sure you know how to read it before you need it.

3. Hike During the Day

Whenever possible, plan to hike during the day. It is easier to get lost in the dark and the area may be home to wild animals that are active at night.

4. Know the Area

Exploring new hiking trails can be exciting. Unfortunately, it also means you're unfamiliar with the territory. Before heading out, check regional hiking information for:

• Local wild animals and what to do if you encounter them
• Local poisonous plants
• Local hunting areas and seasons
• Trail closures or advisories
• Local emergency alerts
• Local weather

5. Check the Forecast

Check the forecast while planning your hike and keep checking it until you leave. This helps determine what gear you need to bring and greatly impacts your safety. Hiking in hotter or colder weather have different challenges that impact your trip and your health. If the forecast does predict rain, snow, or ice, be sure the trail you're taking is passable in these conditions. Consider contacting your local Parks and Recreation Department so they can direct you to real-time information. When in doubt, reschedule your hike for better weather.

6. Be Confident Not Cocky

You know what you can and can't handle. When hiking in a group or with a more advanced friend, you may take risks you aren't ready for. Don't risk injury; be honest with your skill level before hitting the trail.

7. Tell Someone Before You Go

Tell someone when and where you are going and when they should expect you to be back. If that person doesn't hear from you by a certain time, they can take the necessary action to begin a search. With Search and Rescue missions, time matters. If you don’t make it home on time, having a friend that can report your planned hiking activity and timeline can help searchers locate you.

8. Stay Together

When hiking with a large group, it's easy to separate into groups of fast and slow hikers. Often, this happens naturally, but it isn't always safe. Keep someone at the front that hikes at a modest pace to ensure everyone stays together.

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

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Marion County, Oregon — Fans of the classic television show Night Court may remember the late-night courtroom antics and unusual cases. Marion County’s new Night Court program will be far less comedic — but it is designed with a serious purpose: increasing access to justice for the community.

This summer, Marion County Justice Court is launching a new “Night Court” initiative that will offer select evening court sessions entirely online. The pilot program is intended to make court more accessible for working residents, law enforcement officers, and others who may struggle to appear during traditional daytime hours.

Night Court proceedings will be held a limited number of times each month and will include certain traffic trials, as well as an ex parte docket where individuals may petition the court during evening hours.

“Access to justice means making the justice system accessible to the people we serve,” said Justin Kidd. “For many people, taking time off work to appear in court can be difficult or financially burdensome. Offering online evening proceedings gives community members another option that is both practical and convenient.”

The evening schedule is also expected to benefit law enforcement officers — particularly those working night shifts — by providing greater flexibility for court appearances.

The program springs from the court’s recent remodel. While the court building was under renovation, the court held only virtual trials for about a month.  Customers and law enforcement officers indicated that they enjoyed the flexibility and accessibility of online trials. Judge Kidd also found that virtual trials were an effective way to hold court outside normal business hours. 

“It was an epiphany,” said Kidd, “For safety and operations reasons, I need at least four clerks, plus a judge and a security person, to hold a trial while the building is open.  But when the building is closed, I can run a trial with just one judge and one clerk.” The streamlined staffing makes online night court a cost-effective way to increase access to justice.

As part of the program’s rollout, the Marion County Justice Court will also begin seeking applications for a paid pro-tem judge position to assist with the Night Court docket. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Judge Kidd to discuss the pro-tem process.

Woodburn, Ore.—More than two cords of firewood from the Tillamook State Forest were dropped off by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) staff at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn recently. The wood will be used in culturally sustaining services for incarcerated youth who identify as Native American. 

“In these times of tight budgets, we are grateful for the wonderful donation to support our youth,” said Griselda Solano‑Salinas, Director, Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations for the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA). “Our office helps coordinate Native American special events, activities and celebrations at MacLaren and other OYA facilities. These include smudging ceremonies, powwows, sweat lodge, drum circles, arts and crafts, and more. A campfire is often the focal point of many of these activities.”

The OYA typically has around 50 youth at its facilities that identify as Native American.

“Our goal is to connect them with their community through an explanation and exploration of their traditions and beliefs and help them better understand their roots and culture,” said Solano-Salinas.  “Our hope is this reconnection helps them be proud of their heritage and become productive citizens by living their culture values after they leave OYA.”

The donation may make a big impact at OYA but is a relatively small amount of the firewood generated by adults in custody (AICs) at the South Fork Forest Camp in the middle of Tillamook State Forest.  The camp is jointly operated by the Department of Corrections and ODF.

“Throughout the year our South Fork AIC crews cut up downed trees after storms and remove other hazard trees on or near roads, trails and recreational sites,” said Brian Burchfield, ODF’s shop foreman at South Fork.  “Each year we provide our REI (Recreation, Education, Interpretation) program 100 cords of firewood to sell at Tillamook State Forest campgrounds.”

The $5 bundles of wood not only generate funds for ODF’s REI programs but also makes it easy to “buy it where you burn it” a best practice to avoid spreading tree diseases. 

ODF actively manages state forest land to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians and this donation is one of many small ways ODF strives to fulfill that management goal.

For more on OYA’s Native American Services see: Oregon Youth Authority : Native American Services : Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations : State of Oregon

For more on ODF and DOC’s South Fork Forest Camp see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Adults in custody rehabilitation : Forest benefits : State of Oregon

IBR Environmental Review Confirms Significant Impacts to Hayden Island While Leaving Key Safeguards Undefined

[Hayden Island, Portland, OR] The Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program confirms that Hayden Island will experience some of the most significant and prolonged impacts of the project.

Key findings include:

• Permanent displacement of homes and businesses
• 10–15+ years of construction impacts
• Years of high-noise, high-vibration construction activity
• Long-term noise and livability impacts
• Documented impacts to river ecosystems and marine life
• Increased financial burden from tolling for daily users

Despite multiple meetings and repeated requests from representatives of the Hayden Island Neighborhood Network (HINooN), the SEIS does not provide clear, enforceable mechanisms for how impacts will be monitored, reported, or mitigated. Critical protections—particularly related to vibration, structural risk, health impacts, and compensation—remain undefined or deferred.

The SEIS also fails to evaluate real-world secondary impacts associated with major infrastructure projects, including homelessness near transit stations or under elevated structures, and does not use the Hayden Island Community Plan, adopted by the Portland City Council to mitigate impacts on Hayden Island during the Columbia River Crossing project, as a framework to protect the existing community.

Full SEIS document:
https://interstatebridge.org/media/downloads/final_seis/IBR_Final_SEIS_combined.pdf

1. Community Displacement & Land Use Impacts

The project would result in significant permanent displacement on Hayden Island.

• Approximately 59 total residential displacements, including about 39 floating homes located on Hayden Island
• Potential impacts to a 12-unit apartment complex, depending on design
• Approximately 28–58 businesses may be displaced, with an estimated 15–20 located on Hayden Island, representing a significant share of the island’s commercial base

The SEIS acknowledges that while relocation assistance is available, Hayden Island’s limited land availability, zoning constraints, and lack of available moorage space mean that many displaced residents and businesses will not be able to relocate within the island and may be forced to leave the community entirely.

Small, locally owned businesses—particularly restaurants and service-oriented businesses—may not be able to re-establish on the island due to space limitations and land use restrictions.

Even businesses not directly displaced are likely to experience significant revenue loss during construction due to reduced access, detours, tolls, noise, and prolonged disruption. Large-scale construction projects commonly lead to business closures beyond those formally acquired, compounding economic loss across the community.

These impacts extend beyond individual properties and represent a fundamental disruption to the island’s economic ecosystem and identity.

2. Economic & Community Impacts

Beyond direct displacement, the project creates broader economic consequences.

• Regional impacts include effects to approximately 135 businesses and 521 employees, with Hayden Island disproportionately affected
• Loss of local businesses reduces access to services and jobs
• Construction-related disruption is expected to reduce customer access and revenue for many businesses

The SEIS acknowledges impacts to community cohesion, including both temporary disruption and permanent changes to the character of the island.

3. Construction Duration & Intensity

Construction is expected to be long-term and highly disruptive.

• Total construction duration: 10+ years
• Community-level impacts may last up to 15 years

Hayden Island-specific construction timelines include:

• Columbia River bridge construction: 6–8 years
• Interchange and local roadway work: 4–10 years

This represents prolonged, overlapping construction phases that will affect nearly every aspect of daily life on the island.

4. Noise, Vibration & Livability Impacts

Residents will experience significant noise and vibration impacts.

Construction noise:

• Heavy equipment including pile drivers, trucks, and concrete equipment
• Noise levels estimated at 82–94 dBA near residences
• High-noise activities occurring over hundreds of days

Vibration:

• Acknowledged from drilling and pile driving
• No clearly defined vibration thresholds
• No enforceable protections against structural damage
• No defined compensation framework

Floating home residents are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to in-water construction activities, where noise and vibration impacts may be more intense and prolonged.

In addition to construction impacts, the SEIS identifies long-term operational noise impacts, with some locations expected to exceed highway noise thresholds even after mitigation measures such as sound walls are installed.

These conditions represent both short-term disruption and long-term degradation of livability.

5. Traffic, Access & Daily Life Disruption

Construction and design changes will significantly affect mobility and access.

• Traffic congestion and detours over many years
• Increased truck traffic on local roads
• Sidewalk closures and reduced pedestrian and bicycle access
• Boating delays for floating-home residents due to construction near North Portland Harbor

The use of nearby sites for construction staging will increase noise, congestion, and visual disruption near residential areas.

6. Tolling Impacts

The project includes variable-rate tolling, which will directly impact Hayden Island residents.

• Residents rely on the bridge daily for basic needs such as groceries, work, healthcare, and school
• Tolling introduces ongoing financial burden for daily travel
• No clearly defined, resident-specific mitigation measures are provided

This represents a long-term cost impact layered on top of construction disruption and displacement.

7. Air Quality & Health Impacts

Construction of this scale will result in prolonged exposure to air pollution.

• Dust, diesel exhaust, and emissions from heavy equipment and truck traffic
• Pollutants include particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, and other harmful emissions
• Impacts concentrated near homes, staging areas, and haul routes
• Duration of 9–15 years

These pollutants are associated with increased risks of asthma, respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, and other long-term health effects.

Residents living near major freeway corridors—particularly within 500–600 feet—face the highest exposure risk. Hayden Island’s proximity to I-5, combined with extended construction duration, creates a prolonged high-exposure environment.

These impacts are cumulative and add to existing air quality concerns in the area, yet the SEIS does not establish a clear health monitoring or mitigation framework specific to residents.

https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/334-564.pdf

8. Marine Life & River Ecosystem Impacts

The project will impact the Columbia River ecosystem.

Fish:

• Underwater construction noise and debris will disrupt salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and other species
• Behavioral impacts include disruption to feeding and migration

Marine mammals:

• Sea lions and harbor seals may be disturbed or displaced

Habitat:

• Increased overwater shading from new bridge structures alters habitat conditions

9. Navigation Impacts

• Temporary closures and restrictions in navigation channels
• Impacts to river traffic and access
• Adjustments required for marine users throughout construction

10. Social & Secondary Impact Gaps

The SEIS does not evaluate several foreseeable impacts, including:

• Homelessness associated with light rail stations
• Encampments under elevated bridge structures
• Public safety implications
• Long-term management of these conditions

These are known real-world impacts of similar infrastructure projects but are not analyzed in this document.

Independent analysis has also raised broader concerns about the project’s impacts and overall viability.

11. Policy & Accountability Gaps

The SEIS acknowledges impacts but leaves critical questions unanswered.

It does not provide:

• A clear reporting system for residents
• Real-time monitoring transparency
• Enforceable protections for noise, vibration, or health impacts
• Defined compensation processes for damages

Additionally:

• Environmental justice analysis is not included
• Climate impacts are not analyzed
• The Hayden Island Community Plan is referenced only to support development, not to protect the existing community

Hayden Island Community Plan:
https://www.portland.gov/sites/default/files/2020-02/hayden-island-community-plan.pdf

12. Legal and Financial Viability Concerns

Independent analysis of the project raises additional concerns regarding legal compliance and financial feasibility.

These concerns raise questions about whether the project currently satisfies key federal requirements, including:

• Alignment between the project being advanced for funding and the scope evaluated in the SEIS
• Identification of sufficient funding to complete the full project, as required under federal fiscal constraint standards
• Compliance with federal “independent utility” requirements, which prohibit reliance on future, unfunded phases
• Whether cost projections and benefit assumptions meet federal cost-effectiveness standards for major infrastructure investments

These issues raise further questions about whether the project, as currently structured, can proceed under existing federal requirements without additional review, updated analysis, or independent audit.

https://cityobservatory.org/eight-reasons-the-interstate-bridge-project-shouldnt-and-cant-legally-move-forward/

Conclusion

The Final SEIS confirms that Hayden Island will experience:

• Significant displacement of residents and businesses
• More than a decade of disruptive construction
• Long-term noise, vibration, and air quality impacts
• Ongoing financial burden from tolling
• Lasting impacts to the river ecosystem

Hayden Island is home to more than 3,000 residents and supports over 600 jobs, making it a significant and active community—not a marginal project area.

At the same time, the document does not clearly define how these impacts will be managed, monitored, or mitigated for the people who live there.

The SEIS acknowledges significant harm to Hayden Island but does not establish clear, enforceable mechanisms to protect residents, businesses, or the environment. It also fails to evaluate foreseeable secondary impacts associated with transit infrastructure and large elevated structures.

Core Takeaway

Hayden Island bears some of the highest impacts of the IBR project, yet the Final SEIS does not clearly define how those impacts will be addressed, mitigated, or enforced—placing a disproportionate burden on a constrained but vital community.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 6, 2026  

MEDIA CONTACT:  

Monice Wong, Media Relations Manager 

mwong@portlandalliance.com 

“I Do at Darcelle” Invites Couples to Say Yes at Downtown Portland’s Newest Park 
Darcelle XV Plaza to Kick Off Summer of Love with Mass Wedding During Pride Weekend on July 18th  

PORTLAND, OR — Love takes center stage this summer at Portland’s newest park, Darcelle XV Plaza. Poison Waters, Voodoo Doughnuts, and more partners will welcome couples into the spotlight for “I Do at Darcelle,” a one-of-a-kind mass wedding celebration during Pride Weekend on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM at Darcelle XV Plaza, located at SW Park Avenue and Washington Street. 

All couples are invited to say “I do” where love gets the spotlight it deserves. Whether couples are making it official, renewing vows, or celebrating their story with a symbolic ceremony, this event promises a night of fun, flair, and unforgettable memories. 

Not your average wedding moment, “I Do at Darcelle” is part of Downtown Portland Clean and Safe’s citywide Summer of Love series and serves as a joyful celebration of Portland’s newest public park.  

Designed as a vibrant, inclusive gathering space, Darcelle XV Plaza honors the remarkable legacy of the late Walter Cole, known by the stage name Darcelle XV, and the legacy of the Darcelle XV Showplace, the longest-running drag cabaret on the West Coast. Darcelle XV Plaza is managed by Downtown Portland Clean and Safe and the Visit Downtown Campaign in partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation. 

“The Summer of Love at Darcelle XV Plaza is all about showing up for each other and celebrating the many ways we connect as a community,” said Poison Waters, one of Portland’s favorite Drag Queens. “There’s no better way to honor the memory of Walter Cole, Darcelle XV, and the opening of Darcelle XV Plaza, than by filling it with joy, celebration, and love in all its forms.”  

"Darcelle's lasting legacy on Portland is that this is a place where everyone is welcome to be their truest self," said Travel Portland President and CEO Megan Conway. "Our work is to inspire visitors, and Travel Portland is proud to support Darcelle XV Plaza's inaugural Summer of Love, which honors the flair, spirit and joy Darcelle brought to Portland." 

The evening will feature lively music, high-energy moments, and a dance party to close out the night. Portland drag icon Poison Waters and other fabulous guests will serve as officiants, fully licensed in the State of Oregon, bringing signature sparkle and personality to each ceremony. 

As part of the Summer of Love, “I Do at Darcelle” sets the tone for what this new public space is all about: a place to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories together. 

Event Highlights: 

• All are welcome: Legal weddings, vow renewals, and symbolic ceremonies  
• No cost to participate: Couples seeking a legal marriage must obtain a Multnomah County marriage license (approximately $60–$65)  
• Licensed officiant on site  
• Music, donuts, celebration, and a closing dance party  

Planning to Make It Official? 

Couples planning to wed should register at: https://forms.gle/LNbGMu7W9c9YHsM69 

Obtaining marriage licenses: Timing matters. Couples planning a legal ceremony should obtain their marriage license between May 16 and July 15, 2026 to meet Oregon’s three-day waiting period requirement ahead of the July 18 event. 

Guest Guidance: 

Couples are encouraged to bring their ride-or-dies, witnesses, and biggest cheerleaders, but keep it tight. “I Do at Darcelle” is designed as a shared celebration, not a traditional large-scale wedding. 

About the Plaza: 

As part of its ongoing commitment to vibrant, welcoming public spaces, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe will manage programming and daily activation at Darcelle XV Plaza in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation. This public-private collaboration ensures the plaza is not only beautifully maintained, but actively programmed with events, performances, and community gatherings that bring people together. Through this partnership, the plaza will serve as a dynamic, inclusive space in the heart of downtown — designed to foster connection, support local culture, and create a consistent sense of energy and belonging for Portlanders and visitors alike. To learn more: https://www.downtownpdxactivations.com/   

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About Downtown Portland Clean & Safe: The Downtown Portland Clean & Safe District was established in 1988 to support additional cleaning and security in a 273 block-area of Portland's Central City. In addition to these important services, the district supports market research, retail recruitment and retention for Downtown Portland. The district is managed by the Portland Business Alliance under the direction of the district's board of directors.   

About the Visit Downtown Campaign: Visit Downtown is a program run by Downtown Portland Clean & Safe and the Portland Metro Chamber with additional funding from the City of Portland. Learn more at DowntownPortland.org. 

About Travel Portland: Travel Portland generates travel demand that drives economic impact for Portland by promoting the destination in bold, innovative and collaborative ways that harness Portland’s personality and values and that connect visitors to authentic experiences. Learn more at TravelPortland.com 

Portland, OR — The America 250 Oregon Commission, in partnership with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, is proud to announce the recipients of its fourth and final round of grant funding, awarding nearly $60,000 to 21 organizations across Oregon for projects and programs that commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. These awards are in addition to the previous three rounds of funding. In total, the program has granted more than $244,000 to 80 organizations statewide across four funding cycles.

“With recipients in communities across all corners of Oregon, these grants represent Oregon’s commitment to commemorating America’s 250th birthday in ways that reflect the unique character of our state,” said America 250 Oregon Commission Chair Kerry Tymchuk. “From highlighting Indigenous histories to honoring the sacrifice of Oregon’s veterans to instilling a love of history in our youth, these initiatives provide an opportunity for Oregonians to engage in our shared story. We are grateful to the Oregon State Legislature for providing the funds that made these grants possible.”

The Oregon 250 Grant Program was established to help organizations create inclusive, community-focused projects that highlight Oregon’s diverse histories, traditions, and cultures. These grant awards of up to $3,000 will support programs that align with the mission of America 250 Oregon and one or more of its seven guideposts.

The following organizations were awarded grants in the Oregon 250 Grant Program’s fourth and final funding cycle:

Camp Polk Pioneer Cemetery Preservation Committee, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support the preservation and recognition of veterans’ graves at Camp Polk Cemetery through restoration work and interpretive signage.

City of Amity, Yamhill County

Grant funds will support the recording and preservation of oral histories in Amity, capturing contemporary community voices for public archives and educational use.

City of Chiloquin, Klamath County

Grant funds will support a Fourth of July parade and community celebration in Chiloquin that honors local history while bringing residents together for a shared civic event.

City of Independence, Polk County

Grant funds will support a collaborative community quilt project in Independence and Monmouth that shares local stories and culminates in a public art installation and companion exhibit.

Coos Art Museum, Coos County

Grant funds will support a juried portrait exhibition featuring Oregon artists that explores identity, community, and shared futures through public programming and interpretation.

Dallas Area Visitors Center, Polk County

Grant funds will support Bigfootstock, a family-friendly cultural festival in Dallas that uses local folklore to celebrate regional history, identity, and community connections.

Frazier Farmstead Museum, Umatilla County

Grant funds will support the restoration of the historic McCoy Cabin, which was built in 1856 and is the oldest structure still standing in Umatilla County, through a hands-on community workshop teaching traditional preservation techniques.

Klamath County Chamber of Commerce, Klamath County

Grant funds will support the production and promotion of “Voices of Service,” an eight-episode podcast series highlighting the stories and experiences of veterans in Southern Oregon.

MidCoast Watersheds Council, Lincoln County

Grant funds will support three public estuary-focused events on the Oregon Coast that combine environmental education, local history, and artist-led creative activities.

No Pamphlet for That, Washington County

Grant funds will support inclusive, hands-on workshops that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to share their perspectives through creative expression.

North Lincoln County Historical Museum, Lincoln County

Grant funds will support the creation and traveling display of exhibit panels exploring the evolving relationship between people and the Oregon Coast.

The Open Arts Center, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support a youth-led poetry and aerial performance project in Central Oregon that celebrates place, identity, and diverse voices through a public outdoor showcase.

Oregon Agricultural Trust, Marion County

Grant funds will support the production and outreach of a short film series examining Oregon’s landmark land use program and its impact on communities and landscapes.

Oregon Art Center, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support a centennial exhibition at Oregon Art Center showcasing contemporary artists alongside archival materials to highlight the organization’s 100-year legacy.

Portland Art Museum, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support a film screening and panel discussion in Portland exploring Oregon landscapes and storytelling through the lens of the film Wild.

Portland Rose Festival Foundation, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support the Grand Floral Starlight Parade, a combined Rose Festival event bringing diverse cultural groups and performers together for a large-scale public celebration in downtown Portland that will include tributes to America’s 250th birthday.

Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support two public lectures in Central Oregon exploring how art reflects and shapes cultural narratives and public understanding of history.

Scappoose Public Library District, Columbia County

Grant funds will support a free summer outdoor movie series in Scappoose that brings families together through film, entertainment, and community engagement.

Siren Nation, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support artist stipends for the annual Billie Holiday Tribute, expanding performance opportunities for women artists and honoring the legacy of American jazz.

Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation District, Washington County

Grant funds will support a free Fourth of July community celebration at Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park featuring the newly completed Revolutionary War Memorial that honors veterans and fosters civic reflection through music, programming, and public gathering.

Westside Singers, Washington County

Grant funds will support live choral performances for seniors and the broader community, increasing access to American music across generations.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

For more information, contact PWB Communications Manager Felicia Heaton, 971-940-8933.

Today, the Portland Water Bureau discovered a leak on one of the supply conduits that delivers water from the Bull Run supply to Portland. As a result, the Portland Water Bureau is activating the Columbia South Shore Well Field to supplement the Bull Run supply with groundwater so the conduit can be safely taken off-line and repaired.

No action is needed by the public. The community's water supply remains safe to drink. 

Portland Public Utilities Director Dr. Ting Lu noted that the Columbia South Shore Well Field is performing exactly as intended: acting as a reliable backup to meet our community's drinking water needs.

“Our water system is designed for resilience,” said Director Lu. “Having two high-quality drinking water sources, the Bull Run Watershed and our groundwater system, ensures we can respond rapidly to maintain a safe, reliable water supply for our community.”

Operations Manager Kimberly Gupta expressed gratitude to the dedicated Water Bureau staff who respond around the clock to keep the water system working.

"Getting water to flow from a faucet seems simple, but it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water."

About the Columbia South Shore Well Field

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a robust secondary drinking water source that supplements our Bull Run supply. It can be used to augment water from the Bull Run during hot, dry summers and can be served when Bull Run water is unavailable for other reasons, such as a storm, flood, fire or unexpected impacts to infrastructure. Together, our two water sources improve the reliability of our water system and ensure that we can deliver excellent water every minute of every day.

Groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water quality standards. The well field produces high-quality drinking water from protected aquifers deep below the ground.

Depending on a household's location, it can take up to two weeks for the groundwater blend to move through the distribution system and reach all customers’ taps. The Water Bureau will operate the groundwater system until repairs on the supply conduit are complete. and will notify the public when the system returns to 100 percent Bull Run water.

Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to approximately 900,000 people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With nearly 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

On 05/05/2026, at around 1300 hours, members of the newly formed Clatsop County Street Crimes Unit observed two suspicious subjects at the end of 4^th Lane, in rural Astoria.  Uniformed deputies were dispatched to the area and an investigation was conducted.  Following the investigation, 36-year-old Casey L. Brown was taken into custody and charged with Possession of Weapons by Certain Felons and Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl.  Brown was transported to the Clatsop County Jail.

On 05/06/2025, at around 1140 hours, members of the Clatsop County Street Crimes Unit located 46-year-old Jason W. Ficken, in Seaside.  Ficken is wanted for an Oregon Parole Board warrant and numerous crimes, including felony domestic violence charges, in Pacific County, WA.

After a short foot pursuit, uniformed deputies of the Sheriff’s Office, Seaside Police, Gearhart Police, and Cannon Beach Police converged on the area.  Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Drako was deployed, along a drone from Cannon Beach Police, in a effort to locate Ficken.  Ficken was eventually located not far from where he entered the wood line and was taken into custody.  Ficken was transported and lodged at the Clatsop County Jail.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Honduran national unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy that lead to a fatal fentanyl overdose and for unlawfully possessing firearms as an illegal alien.

Cristhian Martinez, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and alien in possession of a firearm. Pursuant to the plea agreement,  Martinez also admitted as part of the conspiracy to distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of an adult victim.

According to court documents, in September 2023, members of the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) were called to investigate a fatal overdose in Clackamas County. While processing the scene, investigators discovered numerous counterfeit M30 Oxycodone pills believed to be manufactured with fentanyl, as well as fentanyl powder. Martinez was soon identified as the person who sold fentanyl to the deceased victim’s dealer.

On November 16, 2023, investigators located Martinez traveling north from California into Oregon, followed his vehicle, and conducted a traffic stop in Gladstone, Oregon. During a K-9 sweep of Martinez’s vehicle, investigators found multiple concealed packages containing more than one kilogram of compressed fentanyl:

Later the same day, investigators executed a search warrant on Martinez’s Gladstone apartment where they seized more fentanyl, a 20-ton shop press used to produce “bricks” of fentanyl powder, multiple firearms, ammunition, and other materials consistent with drug trafficking:

Martinez faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine, and five years of supervised release. The government will seek a sentence of 210 months’ imprisonment. Martinez will be sentenced on August 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford of the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the FBI, CCITF, and Westside Interagency Narcotics team (WIN). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members from the Canby Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, the FBI, and the Oregon National Guard Counterdrug Task Force. CCITF is supported by our community with the passage of the Public Safety Levy and grant funding from the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

WIN is a Washington County-based interagency drug interdiction task force that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and HSI.

This arrest is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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April calls for service and recap;

In April, Milwaukie Police officers participated in the Oregon Department of Transportation distracted driving traffic enforcement grant for distracted driving awareness month. As a part of this grant, bicycle Officers conducted several missions in the Milwaukie downtown core conducting stops for distracted driving and pedestrian safety. Motor Officers (motorcycle and vehicle) also conducted several overtime stints using grant funds in Milwaukie and with partnering agencies such as Wilsonville Police. In total, Officers made 234 traffic stops issuing 187 citations, 82 of which were for distracted driving. Officers also issued 101 warnings with 44 of those for distracted driving. While the grant targeted distracted driving habits prohibited by law, other violations were observed and several secondary offenses resulted in vehicle impounds. Image reel: https://youtube.com/shorts/D8hTLqH8vzE?si=pXmwycTjhrKJkva4

The Milwaukie Police department is now regularly transporting and working with community members in crisis who are willing to admit to the Clackamas County 23-hour stabilization center managed by Clarvida. The Stabilization center, located at 9200 SE McBrod, is for community members who are experiencing crises like panic attacks, hallucinations, or other mental health conditions. Providing a place for community members who need short-term support, coping skills and connections to resources to manage a crisis. Currently admission authority is limited to Law Enforcement or Law Enforcement behavioral health clinicians. For more information on the center visit: https://www.clackamas.us/h3s/stabilization-center

On April 9^th, Milwaukie Police issued a reminder bulletin to the community regarding our request for information on Kevin Goddard, facing charges of using a child in a display of sexually explicit conduct (5 counts) and encouraging child sexual abuse in the first degree (6 counts), who posted bail on May of 2023 and has not been located.  The text of that bulletin can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GmYnPUStT/. With information regarding Mr. Goddard’s whereabouts, please contact Milwaukie Police Detectives at 503-786-7471, the Milwaukie Police TIP line at 503-786-7425 or calling the US Marshals Office at 877-926-8332.

On April 10^th, Jason Treichler 42, of Portland called Milwaukie Police to report a suspicious vehicle near him. A responding Officer new Mr. Treichler to have an outstanding arrest warrant and arranged to meet him in Northwest Milwaukie. Upon arriving, Treichler began to walk away and was told he was under arrest. He continued walking away onto the Portland and Western Railroad tracks while Officers worked to contain him. Railroad traffic stopped and an MiPD sUAS (Drone) arrived to watch his movements. Officers were able to get to Treichler and take him into custody. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on Criminal Trespass, Escape 3, PCS Methamphetamine, and his outstanding warrant. Milwaukie Police would like to remind the community that entering Railroad property (walking on or across tracks) at areas which are not designated for such activity is Criminal Trespassing per Oregon State Statutes.

On April 16^th Milwaukie Police Detectives organized an on shift human trafficking interdiction. Four people were cited and released for promoting prostitution. One suspect fled the meeting point on foot and into the Hector Campbell neighborhood entering residential yards and construction sites. Officers quickly located the suspect, with the aid of an uncrewed aircraft (drone), hiding in a yard and took them into custody without incident. View the video here: https://youtu.be/dYf_-pPRFW8?si=82K5vZrNcvmjuAj7

On April 28^th, Milwaukie Police responded to Milwaukie High School regarding a phone threat made to the principal. The general threat made no specific targets other than the school and a specific time the actions would occur. Milwaukie Police was able to swiftly determine the source of the information was not localized and threats of uncanny similarity had had been made to multiple other metro area schools via the same methods in the same timeframe. This information was collected and forwarded to the FBI domestic terrorism task force for review. Police maintained a presence in the area and students completed their school day.

Calls for Service : 2258

Traffic stops: 1117

Welfare checks : 86 - total number is initially higher. Officers arrive on a welfare check and the call type is changed to the appropriate disposition based on the situation.

Stabilization Center BHU Referrals – 4

Stabilization Center LEO Referrals - 4

BHU unique Contacts (Glen/Trista) - TOTAL - 123

Police Report BHU Follow UP - 28 encounters

BHU= behavioral health unit

Original Release: https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/business_detail_T13_R318.php

April Interagency Missions; CCSO Retail theft, Clackamas County MDT Human Trafficking sting, Wilsonville Traffic Safety mission.

Incident: Disorderly Conduct Arrest

Location: Newport High School (322 NE Eads Street)

Date/Time: May 6^th, 2026 @ 2:15PM

Details: On May 6^th, 2026, at approximately 1415 HOURS, Newport Police Officers were dispatched to area of the Newport High School on the report a school aged male carrying a rifle. Officers from the Newport Police Department and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area and began searching for the subject. Officers worked with Newport High School Administration and Lincoln County School District personnel to lock down the area schools until the area could be made safe.

A suspect was identified and Newport Police contacted the suspect who was a 15-year-old student at the high school. The rifle was determined to be an airsoft AR style replica gun and officers on scene quickly determined there was no threat to school or public safety. The lockdown was lifted and the schools resumed their daily operations. The juvenile student was arrested at the scene for Disorderly Conduct 1 and released to a parent.

The Newport Police Department would like to thank the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance during this incident.

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Mangum of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

Information Released By: Sgt. Bales, 541-574-3348

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Salem, Ore – The State Library Board will hold a virtual executive session from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026. This executive session is pursuant to ORS 192.660 (i) to review and evaluate the job performance of the State Librarian. The agenda is on the next page.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian at 503-378-4367 or nelisen@slo.oregon.gov">wendy.cornelisen@slo.oregon.gov.

State Library Executive Session

May 15, 2026

Online

Agenda

11:30 a.m.       Executive Session                              Avila

12:00 p.m.      Adjournment                                      Deitering

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

Salem, Ore – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.  This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Members of the public who wish to submit a written public comment may do so via the submission form linked here. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, May 14 at noon.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian at 503-378-4367 or nelisen@slo.oregon.gov">wendy.cornelisen@slo.oregon.gov. Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred.  Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in an alternate format 72 hours before the meeting.  Requests may be made to Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov.        

State Library Board Meeting

May 15, 2026

Virtual

Agenda

9:00 a.m.         Approval of the Minutes – January 16, 2026 Meeting                      Deitering

9:05 a.m.         Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Hearing                                     Deitering

9:10 a.m.         Public Comment                                                                               Deitering

9:20 a.m.         Report of the Board Chair and Members                                           Deitering

9:40 a.m.         Report of the State Librarian                                                             Cornelisen

9:50 a.m.         Budget Report                                                                                    Cornelisen

10:00 a.m.       Quarterly Statistics Report                                                                 Cornelisen

10:10 a.m.       Quarterly Strategic Plan Report                                                         Cornelisen

10:20 a.m.       Board Nominating Committee                                                           Deitering

10:30 a.m.       Break                                                                                                  

10:45 a.m.       Talking Books Library Donation Budget                                             Robinson

10:50 a.m.       LSTA 2026 Budget                                                                              Nielsen

10:55 a.m.       Public Library Minimum Conditions Report                                      Nielsen

11:10 a.m.       Keizer Community Library official recognition                                  Nielsen

11:20 a.m.       Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Adoption                                  Deitering

11:25 a.m.       Adjournment                                                                                      Deitering

Any person may address the Board on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Board does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any question or issue raised to the State Librarian.

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

At 1244 pm on May 6, 2026, a structure fire was reported on NW Florida Avenue.  Callers reported smoke and flames visible at the back of the residence, one of the original mill houses built in 1925.  Fire crews quickly knocked down the fire, but extensive overhaul operations were needed due to it being an older home with fire involvement in the attic area.  The home is not habitable, and Red Cross is providing assistance for two adults and two dogs.  

Upon investigation, it was found that the fire originated on the exterior of the house, and extended up the wood siding to the eaves and into the attic space.  The cause of the fire is improper disposal of oily rags from a recent project into the household trash.  

Oil based paints, stains, and varnishes are often used for home improvement projects, but rags, cloths, and brushes can easily start a fire if not handled and disposed of properly.  Never leave rags in a pile or bucket, lay them out flat outdoors in a space away from structures and combustibles.  Once rags are completely dry, place them in a metal can with a water and detergent solution and ensure the lid is sealed tightly.  They can be disposed of at Knott Landfill at their Hazardous Waste Disposal area, which is open every Friday and Saturday.  For more information on household safety, please visit our website at https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/community-resources-programs/#resources.

BLM prepares to open campgrounds for 2026 recreation season

Know Before You Go and check local fire restrictions to stay safe and informed

PORTLAND, Ore. – As spring temperatures rise, the Bureau of Land Management is excited to welcome visitors to public lands across Oregon and Washington for the 2026 recreation season. While many sites are moving to full-service operations, the BLM urges people to plan ahead, practice "Know Before You Go" safety and strictly adhere to upcoming seasonal fire restrictions.

“Each year we look forward to welcoming visitors back,” said Jim Regan-Vienop, Klamath Falls Acting Field Manager. “Public lands offer everyone a chance to unwind, explore, and appreciate the landscapes we all share.”

BLM recreation areas offer a broad selection of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle recreation and boating across a wide variety of landscapes.

Most seasonal campgrounds across Oregon and Washington open by mid-May, though specific dates vary based on local conditions and elevation. The BLM encourages all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve these shared spaces for future generations.

Safe recreation begins with thorough planning; always share your itinerary with someone at home and be prepared to "Pack It In, Pack It Out" if facilities have limited trash service early in the season. For those drawn to the region's rivers, water safety is paramount, always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and check local water conditions before launching.

Public safety depends on responsible fire practices. Before heading out, visitors are urged to verify if campfires are permitted at their specific destination, as high-danger periods often restrict fires to designated steel rings in improved campgrounds only or restrict open flames completely. The BLM reminds everyone to never leave a fire unattended and to use the "Drown, Stir, and Feel" method to ensure coals are cold to the touch before departing.

For the most up-to-date information on specific site availability and local fire danger levels, please visit the BLM Oregon/Washington webpage or contact your local District Office.

-BLM-

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

SW Polk Fire District Joins Nationwide Recognition on May 6, 2026

Dallas, OR — On May 6, 2026, special districts across the country will celebrate the inaugural National Special Districts Day, recognizing the vital services provided by thousands of independent local governments that communities rely on every day.

Established by the National Special Districts Association, National Special Districts Day highlights the role special districts play in delivering essential services such as fire protection, emergency medical response, water systems, libraries, parks, and public safety infrastructure.

Special districts are local governments created to perform a single or limited set of services efficiently and locally. In Oregon, fire districts and other special districts serve millions of residents, often covering large rural areas where city services are not available.

The importance of these services became especially clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. While state, tribal, county, and city governments received significant federal and state relief funding to assist with pandemic response and recovery, many Oregon special districts were largely excluded from those direct funding streams. As a result, districts continued providing uninterrupted emergency response, community protection, and operational readiness while absorbing pandemic-related expenses within their existing budgets.

Despite increased costs for protective equipment, staffing challenges, training adjustments, and operational changes, special districts maintained essential services without interruption.

“Special districts are often the most local form of government people may not realize exists,” said Fire Chief Fred Hertel. “Our firefighters, paramedics, and staff continued serving our community every day of the pandemic, even when financial assistance was limited. National Special Districts Day gives us an opportunity to recognize that commitment and educate the public about how these services are delivered.”

National Special Districts Day also serves to raise awareness among residents and policymakers about the governance, accountability, and funding structures that allow special districts to remain responsive to local needs.

SW Polk Fire District encourages community members to learn more about special districts and the essential role they play in protecting public safety and quality of life.

About SW Polk Fire District

SW Polk Fire District was formed under Oregon law in 1947 to provide more adequate fire protection for rural residents, their homes, and agricultural properties, while also reducing insurance premiums for properties within district boundaries. Over time, the District’s response model has evolved from primarily fire suppression to a service increasingly focused on emergency medical and rescue calls, reflecting changing community needs and steadily increasing call volume.

Today, SW Polk Fire District provides fire and emergency medical response services to the rural communities of Bridgeport, Dallas, Falls City, Oak Grove, Perrydale, Rickreall, and Salt Creek from three strategically located fire stations. The District operates as a combination agency staffed by both career and volunteer personnel. Career staff provide 24/7 coverage at two stations, while volunteers respond from all three locations.

The District has recently expanded emergency medical services by adding ambulance transport capabilities while continuing to support neighboring agencies through mutual aid partnerships.

Located on the west side of the Willamette Valley, approximately 40 minutes from the Pacific Coast and 60 minutes from the Cascade foothills, SW Polk Fire District protects a diverse landscape of farmland, forestland, and vineyards. The District serves approximately 8,100 residents across 142 square miles.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED

The second quarterly meeting of 2026 for the Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will be held virtually and in person on Wednesday, June 3, at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, located at 1792 Marine Drive in Astoria. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a town hall meeting at 11:30 a.m., which is open to the public.

Established in 1945, the Advisory Committee holds a distinct and fundamental role in advising the director and staff of ODVA. The nine members of the committee are military veterans from all corners of the state, appointed by the governor to serve and act as advocates for veteran issues and veteran concerns across Oregon.

Following every quarterly business meeting, the committee holds a town hall inviting the public to raise questions or concerns about broad veteran issues or to share information with the committee and agency director.

Members of the community are also invited to submit written public comments to the committee by emailing odva_vaac@odva.oregon.gov. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the first Wednesday of March, June, September and December.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Please register at https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d105957f-f8f5-4880-905c-0b2c9d223eb0@aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf to attend the business or town hall portion of this meeting.

Attendees will be allowed to participate during the town hall portion only and will be invited to turn on their camera and unmute mics during a recorded meeting that will be posted online at a later date.

More information about the Advisory Committee and meeting materials can be found online at www.oregon.gov/odva/Connect/Pages/Advisory-Committee.aspx.

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty

Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation

ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

JOSEPH E. WESTON DONATES REMAINING REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS TO HIS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

Portland philanthropist’s gift brings value of endowment to more than $1 billion

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland philanthropist and businessman Joseph E. Weston has donated the remainder of his commercial real estate holdings to the OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation, a supporting organization of Oregon Community Foundation. The gift brings the value of the endowment to more than $1 billion. This is the largest single donation in Oregon Community Foundation’s 53-year history.

Weston grew up in Southeast Portland without much money, but with a strong work ethic and a close-knit family. As a teenager, he worked as a soda jerk at a drugstore, where a pharmacist who owned apartments first showed him the financial power of real estate. By the time he was 18, Weston had purchased his first two duplexes. He still owns them today.

As Weston’s business grew, so did his generosity. Since 1991, Weston and the OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation have awarded more than $250 million in grants and scholarships. The donation of his remaining properties will ensure Weston’s grantmaking will endure in perpetuity.

“Joe has earned his place in history as one of Oregon’s most generous philanthropists,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “This donation is a triumph for Joe and his legacy. We are proud to be part of his enormous impact on our state.”

The OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation is Oregon Community Foundation’s largest supporting organization. Last year, it distributed more than $27 million to fulfill its mission to improve the human condition by serving vulnerable populations, funding projects that assist children, the working poor, senior citizens, people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness.

“I grew up poor. I know what it was like to be excluded because our family didn’t have resources,” Weston has said. “I’ve also been very fortunate in my profession, and that is why the goal of the Foundation is to provide funding to support nonprofits who are helping those in need. Working with OCF has allowed me to better realize that goal now and into the future.”

Over the course of his career, Weston built and acquired thousands of apartments and hundreds of commercial real estate projects across Oregon. He played an instrumental role in the development of Portland’s Pearl District.

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 statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

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Bend Fire & Rescue recognizes May as National Wildfire Awareness Month. We encourage the community to get your home and family wildfire ready ahead of an incident that threatens our community.

Wildfires are a threat to our region every year. With local drought declarations and a very hot and dry forecast for the year - we are asking our community to take part in the collective effort of preparing Bend for wildfire.

“Strengthening our community’s wildfire resilience is a shared effort, and every action makes a difference,” said Melissa Steele. “At Bend Fire, we are training and preparing our responders, collaborating with regional partners, participating in community education and outreach, and reviewing defensible space standards around our own facilities. When these efforts are matched by steps residents take on their own properties, together we can meaningfully reduce wildfire risk across our community.”

Being wildfire ready begins at home. And it starts with you.

Wildfires can cause destruction very quickly, especially when dry and dead plants and other combustible materials can help the fire progress.

Creating defensible space by clearing things that can catch fire from the area within the first five feet of your home is one small and impactful step you can take to help protect not just your home, but the whole neighborhood.

Learn what simple actions you can take to create defensible space around your home at bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Central Oregon Fire Prevention Co-op Preparedness Fair

Join Bend Fire & Rescue and other wildfire partners from across the region on Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wille Hall at Central Oregon Community College (2600 NW College Way, Bend) for a Wildfire Preparedness Fair.

Learn how to prepare your family and home for wildfire through presentations, hands-on activities, info booths and a ton of fun giveaways. Local and regional fire officials will be available to answer any questions about wildfire preparedness that you might have.

Learn about other regional fairs put on by the Co-op at centraloregonfire.org/prevent-wildfires.

Follow Bend Fire & Rescue on Facebook and Instagram as we post helpful wildfire readiness tips throughout the month. Thank you for helping make Bend wildfire ready.

Yesterday, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at approximately 5:43 p.m., Woodburn Police officers responded to a two‑vehicle fatal crash involving a motorcycle at the intersection of Butteville Rd NE and Lebrun Rd NE.

The initial investigation indicates that a Dodge pickup driven by Caleb Doll (35) was traveling east on Lebrun Rd NE and turning left onto Butteville Rd NE. At the same time, Cyrus Pino (35) of Woodburn was traveling southbound on Butteville Rd NE on a Kawasaki motorcycle and collided with the pickup. 

The driver of the pickup remained on scene and cooperated with investigators. At this time, preliminary information does not suggest the crash was criminal in nature.

The motorcyclist, Cyrus Pino, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the pickup was not injured. The roadway was closed for approximately four hours during the investigation.

Assisting agencies included the Woodburn Fire Department, Woodburn Ambulance, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team, the Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Woodburn Public Works.

(SPRINGFIELD, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement after PeaceHealth announced plans to stop attempting to outsource emergency room care to out-of-state group ApolloMD and to renew its contract with local doctors at Eugene Emergency Physicians.

"Today’s announcement is a historic victory for all Oregonians.

PeaceHealth’s decision to reverse course is not an act of leadership, it is a retreat. Health executives were forced to back down thanks to lawsuits, pressure from elected leaders, and an unprecedented show of solidarity from thousands of nurses, doctors, caregivers, and community members who stood together to hold PeaceHealth accountable and stop out-of-state corporations from controlling our care

The message is unmistakable. Oregonians’ health is not for sale. Hospitals must put patients ahead of profits and local collaboration over corporate control.

PeaceHealth must follow the law and other health systems should take note. Oregon banned the corporate practice of medicine for a reason. Oregonians and their providers are in charge of their personal healthcare decisions. We will not allow our communities’ care to be undermined, outsourced, or controlled by corporate executives.

While we celebrate this victory, we recognize that damage has been done. Our community's trust in PeaceHealth is broken. Regaining that trust will require increased transparency, partnership, and a stronger commitment to our communities from PeaceHealth.

Frontline nurses, doctors, and local leaders are ready to sit down with PeaceHealth executives to build a path forward that restores faith in our community’s healthcare system and put patients ahead of profits."

Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                 Date: May 6, 2026

Media Contacts:                                                                                                                                          
PGE: pgecommunications@pgn.com | 503.464.2067

Pacific Power: rez@pacificorp.com">simon.gutierrez@pacificorp.com | 503.813.6018

Idaho Power: mediateam@idahopower.com | 1.800.458.1443

Oregon Utilities Promote Wildfire Awareness: Get Ready for Fire Season by Preparing Now and Staying Informed

PGE, Pacific Power, Idaho Power and the PUC share tips and guidance as fire season approaches

Portland, Ore. – In recognition of National Wildfire Awareness Month, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power invest year-round to prevent wildfire and deliver safe, reliable power to the homes and communities that depend on it. They partner with tribes and federal, state and local agencies to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“We’ve had an unusually dry winter across much of Oregon, and that means wildfire season may arrive earlier and with greater intensity,” said Commissioner Chair Letha Tawney. “Even as Oregon electric utilities invest billions to reduce wildfire risk, customers need to be ready for potential outages when fire danger is high. The changing risk of extreme wildfires touches every Oregon community and requires all of us to take steps now to reduce the chance of catastrophe.”

Resources to help Oregonians prepare for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, including guidance on staying informed, evacuation planning and creating defensible space to help prevent wildfire.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power also share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.

Have a plan

• Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
• Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
• Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
• Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
• Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.

Make an outage kit

Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.

• Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.

• Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
• Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.

Stay informed

Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Information, resources and checklists

• PGE customers can visit portlandgeneral.com/wildfiresafety for information about how PGE works to protect people, property and public spaces.
• Pacific Power customers can visit pacificpower.net/wildfiresafety for resources and information including an outage preparation checklist for customers, an interactive map outlining public safety power shutoff areas.  
• Idaho Power customers can visit idahopower.com/wildfire to learn more about summer outage preparedness and what Idaho Power is doing to protect the grid from wildfires.   

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About Portland General Electric Company
Portland General Electric is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 960,000 customers serving an area of approximately 2 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering economies, delivering safe, affordable and reliable electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE continues to make progress towards emissions reduction targets, and customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE is ranked a top ten utility in the 2025 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index. In 2025, PGE employees and retirees volunteered over 18,300 hours to more than 400 nonprofits organizations. Through the PGE Foundation, along with corporate contributions and the employee matching gift program, more than $5 million was directed to charitable organizations supporting economic growth and community resilience across our service area. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

About Idaho Power

Idaho Power, headquartered in vibrant and fast-growing Boise, Idaho, has been a locally operated energy company since 1916. Today, it serves a 24,000-square-mile area in Idaho and Oregon. The company has a long history of safely providing reliable, affordable, clean energy. With 17 low-cost hydroelectric projects at the core of its diverse energy mix, Idaho Power’s residential, business, and agricultural customers pay among the nation’s lowest prices for electricity. Its 2,100 employees proudly serve more than 660,000 customers with a culture of safety first, integrity always and respect for all.

About the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.

EUGENE, Ore.—A Eugene, Oregon, man made his first appearance in federal court today after allegedly destroying federal property while attempting to breach the Eugene federal building.  

Soren Emery Polzin, 18, has been charged by criminal complaint with depredation of federal property.

“The harm in this case goes beyond the thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to the federal building on January 30, 2026,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Federal employees were trapped inside, terrified of what would happen if the building were fully breached. This was a riot, not a lawful protest.”

“This arrest marks a huge step forward in our investigation of the damage to the Eugene federal building on January 30, 2026,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Violence and destruction of property jeopardize the rights and safety of all citizens. The FBI will continue to pursue individuals who exploit a situation to pursue violent, extremist agendas—anarchists and other agitators who set out to sow discord and upheaval.”

According to court documents, on the evening of January 30, 2026, a group of individuals, including Polzin, damaged the exterior windows and doors and attempted to gain access to the Eugene federal building while federal civilian employees were inside. Polzin repeatedly banged on and kicked the lobby window, eventually shattering the window with his lower body.

Polzin made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Protective Service are investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

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Five schools will receive cash prizes for special school projects in the 17^th annual OnPoint Prize campaign awards

PORTLAND, Ore. — Five local schools have won the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Community Builder awards. Each school will receive a cash prize for a special project that positively impacts its school and community.

OnPoint also named the eight finalists for its Educator of the Year awards. Each educator is in the running to have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for their school. The four winners in each category (K-5, 6-8, 9-12, and Gold Star) will be announced on May 20, 2026. The remaining four runners-up in each category will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

“Across our region, schools and educators are doing incredible work to support students and strengthen their communities,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We are inspired by the ways they create welcoming environments, support students as individuals and help them grow with confidence. We are proud to recognize these schools and educators who go above and beyond to shape the next generation.”

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $1 million in prizes to over 350 local educators and schools since 2010. The 2026 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving K-12 educators and schools.

Learn more about the 2026 Community Builder award winners and Educator of the Year finalists below:

Community Builder Awards
OnPoint has recognized five schools from across the region with its Community Builder awards. Four schools will receive $2,000 from OnPoint for a special project of their choice, and one school determined by online community votes will receive $5,000.

Grand Prize Winner – $5,000 Community Builder Award

Cedar Ridge Middle School: Kiln for Kids (Oregon Trail School District, Sandy, Ore.)

Limited equipment has made it difficult for Cedar Ridge Middle School students to participate in the ceramics program, despite its growing popularity. Winning the $5,000 Community Builder Award allows the school to purchase a new kiln, giving students the opportunity to explore advanced techniques like glazing and sculptural work while building creativity, technical skills and confidence through hands-on learning.

$2,000 Community Builder Award Winners

• Carus Elementary: Community Garden Space (Canby School District, Oregon City, Ore.) Carus Elementary is developing a multi-phase community garden that will feature native plants, outdoor learning spaces and nature play features. The $2,000 award will enable students to learn how to design a garden and gain hands-on experience creating a space that connects them to nature and the community.  
• Mapleton School District: Community Makerspace Initiative (Mapleton, Ore.) Mapleton School District is transforming a former middle school into a community center featuring a makerspace, garden and shared resources. The makerspace will serve as a hub for hands-on learning, creativity and entrepreneurship for both students and community members. The $2,000 award will support initial development, helping create a space where students can explore new skills and contribute to projects that strengthen their rural community.
• Rex Putnam High School: Indoor Percussion Drum Replacement (North Clackamas School District, Milwaukie, Ore.) Rex Putnam seeks to replace outdated marching band drums that are more than 30 years old and no longer functional. The $2,000 award will help provide new instruments, giving students equitable access to quality equipment and supporting student growth, program sustainability and stronger community engagement through performances.
• Woodland High School: Postsecondary Exploration Field Trips (Woodland Public Schools, Woodland, Wash.) Woodland High School plans to take students on visits to trade schools, community colleges and universities to explore postsecondary options. These experiences build awareness, confidence and interest in continuing education, especially for first-generation students. The $2,000 award will help remove financial barriers and provide guided exposure so students can better understand their options and make informed decisions about their futures.

Educator of the Year Finalists (listed by category, then alphabetically by last name)

OnPoint also named its eight finalists for its 2026 Educators of the Year awards today. Winners will have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for each of their schools. The remaining four finalists will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Finalists

• Ashley Reich – 4th grade, Bertha Holt Elementary, Eugene School District 4J
• Sam Wishart – 1st grade, City View Charter School, Hillsboro School District

6-8 Finalists

• Mikael Benson – 6-8th grade Math and Gardening, Harrison Park Middle School, Portland Public Schools
• Kristine Napper – 6-8th grade Social Studies, Whitford Middle School, Beaverton School District

9-12 Finalists

• Stephanie Fitzgerald – 9-12th grade Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Colton High School, Colton School District
• Heidi Friesen – 9-12th grade Chemistry and Physics, Bend Senior High, Bend-LaPine School District

Gold Star Finalists (includes pre-kindergarten teachers, school counselors, substitute teachers, librarians, principals or school administrators)

• Kali Dalton – Counselor, Coweeman Middle School, Kelso School District
• Yaneira Romero – Social Worker, James John Elementary, Portland Public Schools

Click here to learn more about OnPoint's finalists for the 2026 Educator of the Year awards. Winners and runners-up will be announced on May 20, and the announcement will be broadcast live on KGW.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Visit onpointcu.com to learn more.

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ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

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

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

VIDEO & PHOTO: Ribbon cutting and speeches.

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College’s newest facility has earned a “clean bill of health,” and is now serving the region’s healthcare workforce needs.

On Tuesday, May 5, Portland Community College celebrated the completion of the college’s largest-ever renovation and officially introduced the newly renovated Health Technology Building to the public. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours for local leadership, members of the Tigard Chamber of Commerce, community partners and college employees.

Approximately 100 guests attended the celebration at PCC’s Sylvania Campus in Southwest Portland, where President Dr. Adrien Bennings joined college leaders to mark the completion of the state-of-the-art renovation. The facility, which opened to students and the public for spring term, will primarily support healthcare education and training.

“This building is much more than a renovation,” said Bennings. “It is an investment in our students, our healthcare workforce and the future of our region. These updated spaces will give students hands-on training for in-demand careers while helping meet a critical need for qualified healthcare professionals across our region.”

The Health Technology renovation began in 2018 and was funded through PCC’s 2017 and 2022 voter-approved bond measures. The west-side renovation modernized 66,000 square feet, including 9,500 square feet of new instructional space, at a total project cost of $37 million. The investment significantly upgrades the college’s healthcare and emergency professions programs and expands PCC’s ability to deliver hands-on, career-focused instruction in modern learning environments.

The HT West project followed phase one of the building renovation on the east side, completed in 2023. That earlier phase renovated nearly 100,000 square feet at a cost of $78 million and was funded through the 2017 bond measure. Together, the two phases represent an investment in a cornerstone career-technical education facility that had not received a full upgrade since the 1960s.

"The expansion and reopening of the PCC Health Technology Building marks a significant investment in training the region’s future healthcare workforce with modern, hands-on learning spaces,” said Tigard Chamber Chief Executive Officer Megan De Salvo. “This upgraded facility strengthens Portland Community College’s ability to meet growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals across the region. The Tigard Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate this reopening as it is a powerful investment in our region’s local workforce pipeline and our future as the region’s healthcare hub." 

The renovated building includes updated instructional and support spaces for important programs -- Nursing, Medical Imaging and Radiography, Physical Education, Exercise Science, as well as additional collaboration areas throughout the facility. Designed with student belonging and community in mind, the building also features an all-user locker room with fully private changing, shower and restroom facilities. In addition, there are refreshed student commons and new fitness areas that support both academic programs and community education.

There is also dedicated instructional space for academic non-credit healthcare programs, helping ensure a comprehensive and modern training environment for both entry-level and continuing education students. By expanding capacity and access across key disciplines, the project better aligns PCC’s programs with regional workforce needs.

That need is significant. Oregon employers continue to report more open positions than available workers to fill them, and the shortage is especially acute in healthcare. 

“By modernizing our instructional spaces and expanding access across multiple healthcare disciplines, PCC is ensuring that our programs are aligned with the needs of our students and regional employer partners,” said Janeen Hull, dean for the Healthcare & Emergency Professions Pathway. “We are equipping the next generation of healthcare, emergency and fitness professionals with the skills to lead and the hands-on experience to succeed from day one.”

Program improvements include the expansion of nursing assistant labs to Sylvania, multiple medical assisting cohorts across three campus locations, and a specialized VO2 max testing lab for Exercise Science Program students. These enhancements strengthen preparation for careers in healthcare, rehabilitation and fitness while broadening access to training opportunities across the district.

The project also reflects PCC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and inclusive design. The renovation is designed to meet LEED Gold standards and is pursuing LEED NC v4.1 certification, and incorporates energy modeling, sustainability workshops and incentives through Energy Trust of Oregon. The design process included extensive stakeholder outreach and engagement, including workshops that applied a critical race spatial lens.

“This renovation represents PCC’s commitment to creating learning environments that reflect the excellence, innovation and care our students will bring to the communities they serve,” Bennings said. “At PCC, we believe students deserve learning spaces that inspire confidence, belonging, and excellence, and this transformation helps make that possible.” 

The benefits of these investments extend well beyond campus. A 2026 economic impact study by Lightcast based on 2024 data found that PCC contributes $2.7 billion to the regional economy and supports 20,700 jobs. The same study found students gain approximately $4.10 in higher future earnings for every $1 invested in their education.

“We are deeply grateful to our voters and community for investing in facilities that expand opportunity and strengthen the region’s future,” she added.

For more information about the HT Building renovation, visit pcc.edu/bond/

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

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

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

The Oregon Department of Human Services Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP) and Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) in Eugene are moving to better serve clients.

The two programs will be moving from The McKenzie Center, 2885 Chad Drive, Eugene into two locations: 2101 West 11^th Avenue, Eugene and 101 30^th Street, Springfield. The move is expected to be complete by May 11, 2026. The Child Welfare program will remain at 2885 Chad Drive in Eugene.

“The two programs, SSP and OEP, are relocating to consolidate the programs into two locations in the Eugene Metro area and to have building spaces that are better suited to serving our community. We will have more staff available to see clients in person. We’re creating something better for the people we serve,” Elizabeth Lindbloom, Self-Sufficiency Program Manager, and Zayra Longoria, Oregon Eligibility Partnership Program Manager, said.

About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, childcare and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing and other resource needs. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

Learn more about ODHS: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/default.aspx?  utm_source=odhs&utm_medium=egov_redirect&utm_campaign=https%3a%2f%2fwww.oregon.gov%2fdhs.

Learn more about the Child Welfare Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/cw.aspx.

Learn more about the Oregon Eligibility Partnership: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/oep.aspx.

Learn more about the Self-Sufficiency Programs: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/ssp.aspx.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.

The next Telecommunications Policy Committee meeting is to be determined.

PGE, Pacific Power, Idaho Power and the PUC share tips and guidance as fire season approaches

Portland, Ore. – In recognition of National Wildfire Awareness Month, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power invest year-round to prevent wildfire and deliver safe, reliable power to the homes and communities that depend on it. They partner with tribes and federal, state and local agencies to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“We’ve had an unusually dry winter across much of Oregon, and that means wildfire season may arrive earlier and with greater intensity,” said Commissioner Chair Letha Tawney. “Even as Oregon electric utilities invest billions to reduce wildfire risk, customers need to be ready for potential outages when fire danger is high. The changing risk of extreme wildfires touches every Oregon community and requires all of us to take steps now to reduce the chance of catastrophe.”

Resources to help Oregonians prepare for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, including guidance on staying informed, evacuation planning and creating defensible space to help prevent wildfire.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power also share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.

Have a plan

• Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
• Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
• Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
• Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
• Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.

Make an outage kit

Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.

• Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.
• Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
• Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.

Stay informed

Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Information, resources and checklists

• PGE customers can visit portlandgeneral.com/wildfiresafety for information about how PGE works to protect people, property and public spaces.
• Pacific Power customers can visit pacificpower.net/wildfiresafety for resources and information including an outage preparation checklist for customers, an interactive map outlining public safety power shutoff areas.  
• Idaho Power customers can visit idahopower.com/wildfire to learn more about summer outage preparedness and what Idaho Power is doing to protect the grid from wildfires.   

About Portland General Electric Company
Portland General Electric is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 960,000 customers serving an area of approximately 2 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering economies, delivering safe, affordable and reliable electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE continues to make progress towards emissions reduction targets, and customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE is ranked a top ten utility in the 2025 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index. In 2025, PGE employees and retirees volunteered over 18,300 hours to more than 400 nonprofits organizations. Through the PGE Foundation, along with corporate contributions and the employee matching gift program, more than $5 million was directed to charitable organizations supporting economic growth and community resilience across our service area. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

About Idaho Power

Idaho Power, headquartered in vibrant and fast-growing Boise, Idaho, has been a locally operated energy company since 1916. Today, it serves a 24,000-square-mile area in Idaho and Oregon. The company has a long history of safely providing reliable, affordable, clean energy. With 17 low-cost hydroelectric projects at the core of its diverse energy mix, Idaho Power’s residential, business, and agricultural customers pay among the nation’s lowest prices for electricity. Its 2,100 employees proudly serve more than 660,000 customers with a culture of safety first, integrity always and respect for all.

About the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.

RELEASE DATE:               May  5, 2026
CASE NUMBER:               26-19826

Gresham, Ore. — Gresham Police located a 6-year-old child who had been missing for more than two hours.

A 6-year-old was reported missing in the 800 block of SE 5th St. at approximately 8:20 p.m. after his mother noticed he was no longer playing in the driveway.

Officers flooded the area and began checking the home, nearby schools and parks. As darkness fell and the child had still not been found, additional resources were called in to assist with the search.

Drone operators and the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Air Unit searched from above while officers continued checking parks and canvassing for surveillance cameras. Gresham Fire Department responded with water rescue equipment to search Johnson Creek between the nearby school and park. Additional officers and assisting deputies used loud equipment to call the child’s name while neighbors also helped search the area.

Shortly before 10:30 p.m., the missing child was spotted by a neighbor not far from his home. The neighbor alerted a nearby officer, who confirmed it was the missing child.

In total, 37 officers, four drones, one airplane and three K-9 teams assisted with the search, along with much of the surrounding neighborhood.

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank the community members who assisted in the search. Additionally, we appreciate the support of the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and Columbia County Sheriff's Office, which had additional resources responding when the child was found.

#30

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded Tuesday evening at 5:10 to a shed on fire in the 1400 block of West Side Hwy. The homeowner reported his shed was on fire in his backyard, which was close to his home. Fire crews arrived and attacked the fire with multiple hose lines, having the fire under control within 9 minutes of arriving, stopping the fire spread. Crews remained on scene and checked for hot spots and extension into the ceiling of the thirty-by-10-foot shed. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but is believed to be accidental. No injuries were reported.

Cowlitz County, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue and Cowlitz County Fire District 5 (Kalama) responded to a brush fire Monday (May 4th) afternoon at 4:43 in the 1000 block of Lincoln Rd in Kelso, WA. Initial reports were that a homeowner burning yard debris had gotten out of hand and is spreading to nearby brush. Fire crews arrived and reported multiple slash piles burning and a 10-foot by 300-foot fire spread into nearby brush and light fuels. Firefighters attacked the fire with multiple hose lines and had the fire contained just before 7 pm.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was also dispatched and assisted Cowlitz 2 firefighters with locating and extinguishing hot spots; DNR crews remained on scene for several hours, monitoring the scene for potential flare-ups. The cause of the fire was accidental; the homeowner did not have a burn permit. Officials from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue remind the public that following proper burn regulations, including securing a valid burn permit and using good judgment, will assist in reducing wildfire incidents as warmer weather and a predicted dry season approach. Also, to always stay informed on local and regional burn bans, which can be found at https://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/196/Emergency-Management and https://www.swcleanair.gov/ .