On February 27, 2026, Rigoberto Lezama-Luna, age 38 of Springfield, OR, was arrested after attempting to pick up a minor at an undisclosed location in Lincoln City. Lezama-Luna is accused of sending sexually charged messages through social media to an undercover Officer posing as a minor. Lezama-Luna was transported to the Lincoln County Jail for Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 1st Degree.

On March 5, 2026, a Lincoln County Grand Jury issued a True Bill Indictment against Lezama-Luna for the crimes.

The Lincoln City Police want to encourage parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in a continuing effort to protect our children from predators who target children for sexual exploitation and to reduce crime and further enhance the safety of our community. We would like to thank the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Oregon for their assistance in investigation, and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office for their support of these operations.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Executive & Business Meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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: Sacramento goals presentation, financial update, supplemental budget revision, tax anticipation note, contract extensions & renewals, retention and turnover report for certified, asb report, SEI reminder, board stipend, policy revisions and 26-27 school calendar decision

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.

UPDATE: An earlier version of this news release had an incorrect date for Commission on Aging meetings. The commission meets on the third Monday of each month.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is seeking applicants for three full-term positions, and one partial-term on its Commission on Aging. The commission manages and implements the county’s Aging Readiness Plan and fosters countywide awareness, dialogue and insight into challenges and opportunities for residents of all ages, incomes and abilities.

Positions begin June 1, 2026. Volunteers typically serve three-year terms, which will end May 31, 2029. Residents living anywhere in Clark County may apply.

The county is looking for people who can bring:

• Interest and experience in issues and advocacy for older adults, related to housing; transportation/mobility; supportive services; healthy communities; community engagement; and emergency preparedness which are elements of the Aging Readiness Plan;
• Ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group; and
• Outstanding strategic communication and public speaking skills and experience meeting with a wide range of individuals and organizations.

The Commission is focusing their 2026 work on mobility and housing.

The commission meets 3:15-6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month. Each meeting includes a work session followed by a public meeting with informational presentations/discussions. Additional meetings, review of materials and related tasks may require an extra 10 hours per month. Meetings currently are being held in a hybrid format, with in-person and virtual options to attend.

Applicants should submit a résumé and letter of interest to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, at jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov. Applications also may be mailed to P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000.

Submission deadline is 5 pm Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The Aging Readiness Plan covers access to housing, transportation, health and safety, a variety of lifestyles, support services, and civic or social engagement. For more on the plan and commission, see www.clark.wa.gov/aging.

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (3 March 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help identifying the person(s) responsible for the possible unlawful take of two young bull elk in Crook County.

On March 3, 2026, OSP investigated a report of two elk carcasses dumped on U.S. Forest Service land along Mill Creek Road, just east of Prineville. Troopers found the legs and heads of two young bull elk which had been discarded off the side of Mill Creek Road. Both bulls were missing their antlers.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP26-072453.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Oregon State Police

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

Tillamook State Forest, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Tillamook Forest Center (TFC) will hold a Volunteer Open House Saturday from 1-3 p.m.

“Volunteers are a key part of the team that makes the Tillamook Forest Center such a great place for our visitors,” said Denise Berkshire, Director of the TFC.  “People ask us a lot of questions about how to volunteer and what volunteers can do here, so we thought it would be great to have a dedicated day to explain how folks can share their love of the forest.”  

During this first ever Volunteer Open House potential volunteers will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the center, meet the TFC’s friendly team, and learn how they can help share the forest’s story with visitors.

There are three main roles for volunteers at the TFC: field trip assistant, information desk greeter, and facilities and grounds assistant.

“If you want to inspire the next generation then consider helping out as a field trip assistant during our forestry field trips programs,” said Berkshire. “If you love to talk with people and want to be the welcoming face of the center then an information desk greeter is a great fit.  On the other hand, if you like to work outdoors or like to organize and tidy up then volunteering as a facilities and grounds assistant might be for you.”

And once you find your perfect fit at the open house you can apply on-site Saturday. To register for the Volunteer Open House, email:  pretationandEducation@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">TFC.InterpretationandEducation@odf.oregon.gov with your name and potential interest area.

Consider bringing others along for the day even if they are not ready to volunteer. They can see the innovative programs and hands-on exhibits in the 13,500 square-foot center. The goal of the TFC is for visitors to gain a greater understanding about what a forest is, how it works, and forest history. Discover the power of fire through the award-winning film Legacy of Fire, the miracle of the salmon lifecycle, and the resilient, dynamic, and productive nature of state forests.

 There is also plenty to explore outside the center including: A 40-foot-tall fire lookout tower that offers a unique view of the area and the surrounding forest canopy. A 250-foot-long suspension bridge over the Wilson River and interpretative trails that lead from the building, through the woods and along the river, providing insight into the past, present, and future of the forest. Plus, much more. 

Camas, WA—March 5, 2026—Camas School District is honored to have been selected as 1 of 25 award-winning school districts for the State Superintendent’s Award for Educational Excellence in Student Achievement.

The State Superintendent’s Award for Educational Excellence recognizes the 25 top-performing school districts in educational achievement in the previous school year and the 25 top-performing school districts in progress over the last three school years.

"This recognition is a testament to the collective dedication of our educators, families, and students. Being named one of the top 25 districts in the state reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring every student, from our earliest learners to our graduating seniors, has the opportunity and support to reach their full potential," stated Superintendent Dr. John Anzalone. 

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) evaluates school districts for the award based on the metrics of student opportunity and outcomes below.

Student Opportunity Measures

• Regular Attendance

• Kindergarten Readiness

• Highly Capable Program Participation

• High School Level Math in 8th Grade

• Dual Credit Participation Including Career and Technical Education (CTE)

• Dual Credit Participation Excluding CTE

Student Outcome Measures

• 4th Grade Reading

• 8th Grade Reading

• 8th Grade Math

• Ninth Graders on Track

• 4-Year Graduation Rate

The award criteria align with the state’s Annual Snapshot on Student Opportunity and Outcomes, which shows how individual districts and the state as a whole are progressing on key focus areas.

“It is an honor to recognize Camas School District for its dedication to student opportunity and success,” said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. “From high-quality instruction to targeted strategies to improving attendance to ensuring all students have access to advanced coursework, Camas School District is an inspiring representation of Washington’s outstanding public schools.”

Camas School District will receive a banner and a plaque from OSPI recognizing its achievement and commitment to student success. This is the inaugural year of this state award.

For More Information 

• State Superintendent’s Award for Educational Excellence (OSPI webpage)

For Immediate Release: March 5, 2026

Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov

Governor Tina Kotek Press Office: nors.press@oregon.gov">governors.press@oregon.gov

Employment Department Shares Plan to Improve Customer Service and Strengthen Oregon’s Workforce System

The agency outlines 101 prioritized actions and long-term initiatives, many already underway

SALEM, Ore. —  The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has released a comprehensive report on its ongoing effort to improve customer service and strengthen Oregon’s public workforce system. The action plan meets expectations outlined by Governor Tina Kotek and demonstrates progress already underway under Director Andrew R. Stolfi.

“Oregonians deserve the best customer service we can provide to make sure they have what they need, especially in times of employment transition,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “The department is taking these issues head on, and the action areas identified in the director’s report will help get us there.”

At the Governor’s direction, OED conducted a review of the customer experience across Unemployment Insurance (UI), Paid Leave Oregon (Paid Leave), Contributions & Recovery (C&R), WorkSource Oregon (WSO), and the Frances Online system. The resulting Customer Service and Workforce Strategies Action Plan includes a prioritized list of 101 customer-focused action steps that fall into four main categories:

• Customer service improvements
• Organizational improvements
• Improvements to Frances Online
• Improvements to the public workforce system

The actions range from high-impact, short-term initiatives to long-term system changes, with the following projects as the highest, most immediate priorities:

• Use AI-assisted tools to improve customer service and employee workflows for faster resolution of common and complex issues.
• Review and simplify all customer-facing communications so customers better understand OED’s processes and can more easily receive benefits.
• Equip WorkSource Oregon centers with additional tools to help customers navigate UI claims.
• Improve how the agency collects and analyzes data to support well-informed goal setting, process improvement, and accountability.
• Create an online live claim status tracker so customers know where they are and what to expect at each step of the process for Paid Leave Oregon and UI.
• Consolidate Title I and Title III Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) administration and funding within OED to improve efficiency and accountability within Oregon’s public workforce system.

“This action plan reflects OED’s deep commitment to improving the services we provide,” OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “It draws from our strengths and is centered on the customer experience, which is where our focus will remain.

When Stolfi joined OED as director, the Governor asked him to lead a thorough review of the agency and develop a comprehensive plan to improve customer service and advance OED’s workforce development mission. In pursuing this directive, OED gathered extensive feedback from across the state through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with more than 5,000 customers, 850 employees, and 240 frontline staff. That feedback revealed clear, consistent themes across programs and communities, including the need for clearer, faster, and more predictable service for Paid Leave and UI customers, and simpler processes and clearer guidance for employers that engage with OED’s business services.

“Our goal was to identify what is working, where barriers exist, and what improvements will make the greatest difference for the people and businesses we serve,” said Director Stolfi. “You can draw a direct line between the feedback we received and the actions outlined in this plan.”

A plan summary, a categorized list of prioritized actions, and the full action plan are available on the OED website. OED will continue to share progress updates and engage with customers, partners, and the public as we move forward.

“We’ve already started working on many of these projects, and Oregonians should expect to see many changes and improvements in the coming months,” Stolfi said. “Customer service is our top priority, and we will not rest until every Oregonian gets the services they expect in a timely manner.”

The agency has already improved in some key customer service metrics. For example, from July 2025 through January 2026 in Unemployment Insurance, the average time to answer a call was 22 minutes faster than the same seven-month period the prior year, despite a 13.6 percent increase in initial claims filed. The Paid Leave program has also reduced the average time it takes for staff to decide on a claim by 5.8 days, despite a 17.6 percent increase in application volume. This indicates improvements in operational efficiency, even while more Oregonians are using these programs.

“We are encouraged by the progress we’ve already made but recognize that we must continue improving in order to provide the level of customer service Oregonians deserve,” Stolfi said. “This plan lays out exactly how we’ll do that.”

About the Oregon Employment Department

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) provides economic stability to Oregon communities by providing vital services to both businesses and workers.  OED supports businesses with finding qualified job candidates, labor market information, tax incentives and support, and retaining talent through economic downturns. OED promotes employment through wage replacement benefits during unemployment and significant life events, job placement, training, and useful career information. Learn more at employment.oregon.gov.

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

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

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Salem – In observation of National Consumer Protection Week, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is partnering with local and national agencies to empower consumers to avoid, report, and recover from fraud.

“Financial fraud is an increasingly pervasive problem here in Oregon and across the country,” said TK Keen, Oregon insurance commissioner and DFR administrator. “Scammers are inundating Oregon consumers with romance, affinity, and investment scams and false claims that they owe money.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Oregonians lost over $133 million to fraud in 2025. National Consumer Protection Week is an annual initiative sponsored by the FTC bringing together federal, state, and local agencies, along with private and nonprofit partners, to provide resources and educational tools to help investors avoid scams and protect their financial well-being. DFR is coordinating, along with AARP, several Fraud Fighter events in April on the following dates:

• April 11 in Springfield at the Riverbend Hospital
• April 17 in Medford at Rogue Community College
• April 28 in Portland at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Each of those events will begin at 8:30 a.m. with check-in, followed by a 9 a.m. to noon town hall with presentations, question and answer time, and panel discussions.

This week’s campaign is to remind people to slow down and verify information before acting. Fraud does not always look dramatic or complicated. It often looks ordinary – a text from a delivery company, a call from someone claiming to be your bank, a message from a grandchild in trouble. The common theme is urgency – to take immediate action.

Common fraud tactics

While schemes change over time, many rely on the same basic strategies:

• Imposter scams: A caller claims to represent a bank, government agency, law enforcement office, or utility company. They may demand payment or ask for account information.
• Account alerts and phishing texts: Messages warn of “suspicious activity” and direct you to click a link. The goal is to capture your login credentials or personal identification information.
• Investment fraud: Promises of high or guaranteed returns, especially involving cryptocurrency or new trading platforms. Fraudsters often build trust before asking for money. These may even include fake investment platforms that disappear once the scammers have your money.
• Romance scams: Someone builds a relationship online, then requests financial help for an emergency, travel costs, or investment opportunity.
• Payment redirection: A message says you owe money and must pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate businesses and government agencies do not demand payment this way.

What to do before you respond

Fraud prevention does not require special tools. It requires a pause. Make time to verify who is contacting you, what the “emergency” is and where the money is going.

If you receive an unexpected call, text, or email:

• Don’t click links or open attachments.
• Don’t share account numbers, Social Security numbers, or one-time passcodes.
• Hang up and contact the company directly using a verified phone number from its official website or your account statement.
• Take time to think. Fraud often depends on urgency.

If someone asks you to move money quickly, buy gift cards, send cryptocurrency, or keep the request secret, recognize these as warning signs of potential fraud.

Protecting your financial accounts

Basic steps can help reduce risk:

• Use strong, unique passphrases for financial accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication when available.
• Review bank and credit card statements regularly.
• Check your credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. (You can do this weekly!)
• Place a free fraud alert or credit freeze if you suspect identity theft.

These actions will not eliminate all risk, but they make it harder for someone to misuse your information.

Investment and licensing checks

Before sending money for an investment or working with a financial services provider, verify that the person or company is properly licensed or registered in Oregon. Make certain that the investment platform you’re being asked to use is real. You can also call one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

A practical approach to prevention

Fraud prevention is not about being suspicious of everything. It is about building habits: Pause. Verify. Do not send money under pressure. National Consumer Protection Week is a reminder that consumer protection is a shared responsibility. Regulators like DFI enforce licensing laws and investigate complaints. Financial institutions monitor accounts. At the end of the day, however, individuals make the final decision to send money or share information.

A brief pause can interrupt a scam. That pause can protect not only your finances, but also your time and peace of mind.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

The City of Battle Ground invites residents and visitors to join us for a new event, the Busy Bee Craft Fair, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  This free, family-friendly event will bring together local crafters and artisans offering a wide variety of handmade goods, unique gifts, home-grown products, and delicious treats. 

The Busy Bee Craft Fair is a great opportunity to support small businesses, discover one-of-a-kind artisan work, and enjoy a fun day out in the community. From handcrafted décor and specialty foods to creative artwork and custom gifts, attendees will find something for everyone. 

“We’re excited to welcome the community to this special event celebrating local makers and creators,” said Joanna Martin, Recreation & Facilities Manager.  “Whether you’re doing some early spring shopping or just looking to spend a delightful day with family and friends, the Busy Bee Craft Fair offers something for all ages.”

The event will feature 45 local crafters and artisans showcasing their unique handcrafted products.

Event Details: Busy Bee Craft Fair

Saturday, March 21, 2026

10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Battle Ground Event Center

912 E. Main Street     

Battle Ground, WA 98604

Admission is FREE  

For vendor information or to learn more about the Busy Bee Craft Fair, visit the City of Battle Ground Parks & Recreation event page at www.cityofbg.org/Annual-Events.

DATA PRIVACY
 

Unfortunately, every year thousands of Oregonians fall victim to online criminals who disguise themselves as established organizations or businesses. Internet scams continue to evolve and become harder to recognize. The term cyber-criminal, generally refers to someone using internet services or software to take advantage of victims. Cyber-criminals and other scammers have become quite skilled in getting you to provide your personal information in a variety of ways. Some scammers are selling “official merchandise” while others ask you to pay fees urgently to avoid serious consequences (which are not real). Another popular scam is the click-bait link or file attachment that collects your data by inviting you to open it from a message such as “I think you know this person that was in this car accident” or “Your account has been suspended, click here to reset your password”. But of course, when you click these links you get viruses or are directed to give your personal information to “reset your account” or login. When in doubt don’t open the link, instead open a new browser and pull up the organization’s official website or call their official number.

Here are a few tips to keep you safer from scams and cybercrimes:

• Use caution, especially with those you are not familiar with.
  • When you receive uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it's over the phone, by mail, email, in person, or on social media, always consider the possibility that the interaction may be a scam.
  • Remember to call or log on to the organization’s real website to verify the information you’ve been given is accurate.

• Protect your passwords and personal information.
  • Always use password protection.
  • Don’t share account or password information with others.
  • Update security software and back up content regularly.
  • Protect your WiFi network with a password.
  • Avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or to provide personal information for services.

• Ignore unfamiliar attachments or links.
  • Don’t click on links, open attachments, attempt to unsubscribe, or call any telephone number listed in suspicious messages.
  • Do NOT give any money, credit card info, or other personal details.
  • When in doubt, look up the organization’s website or phone number and contact them directly.

If you have information about or have fallen victim to a scam, please contact the Oregon Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or online at www.oregonconsumer.gov

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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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County Sheriff's Office would like to announce a test of the Linn-Benton ALERT system on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

The test will cover all of Benton County. All traditional land phone lines in the 9-1-1 database will receive the message. Those who have registered other devices with Linn-Benton ALERT will also receive the test message.

The Linn-Benton ALERT Emergency Notification System is a mass notification system that allows public safety officials to provide rapid notifications to Linn and Benton County residents of emergencies, evacuations, and other urgent events.

There will be no reason to call the Sheriff’s Office once you receive the message; please do not dial 9-1-1.

Residents can sign up for the Linn-Benton ALERT system as well as learn about emergency preparedness at https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/linn-benton-alert/.  As a reminder, each person in the household hoping to receive alerts will need their own profile/account. After signing up for the alerts you will receive all emergency-related notifications related to your location.

For questions on the mass notification system, email gencymanagement@bentoncountyor.gov">emergencymanagement@bentoncountyor.gov or call 541-766-6864.

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Salem, Ore. – One of Oregon Lottery's most popular games is close to selling out. The annual Raffle game features a one-in-250,000 chance to win the $1 million top prize. As of this morning, less than 65,000 tickets remain. It has routinely sold out since the game was added to the Oregon Lottery portfolio in 2009, and all tickets were gone by March 7 in 2025. In fact, the only year the game did not sell out was due to extended ice and power outages across Oregon in 2019.

The winning Raffle numbers will be announced on Tuesday, March 17 and the last day of sales is March 13, unless a sell out happens sooner. The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game to win $1 million. There are also 300 prizes of $500 and 1,500 of $100. To check the winning Raffle numbers, players can use the Lottery’s mobile app, visit oregonlottery.org/raffle, or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

“The Raffle brings the excitement of a $1 million winner each year for our players,” said Tina Erickson, Oregon Lottery’s product manager. “We’ve had winners come from communities big and small across the state.”  

The $500 and $100 prize winners can claim their prizes at any Oregon Lottery retail location. Players can also claim their prize by mail – visit https://www.oregonlottery.org/claim-a-prize/ for instructions. The $1 million Raffle prize winner will need to make an appointment with the Oregon Lottery office in Salem or Wilsonville. Please call 1-800-766-6789 for assistance.

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial advisor or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state  parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Where has the time gone? It seems like only yesterday that the Portland Community College Small Business Development Center (PCC SBDC), together with partners Oregon State University’s Food Innovation Center and New Seasons Market, launched “Getting Your Recipe to Market” or simply known as GYRM. 

Now, two decades later, the partners and the college are celebrating the program’s 20th anniversary as a signature training program that helps local food entrepreneurs transform a promising recipe into a commercial-ready consumer packaged goods product.

Since the first cohort launched in fall 2006, GYRM has guided hundreds of aspiring food entrepreneurs and early-stage food businesses through the complex work of developing, producing, packaging, pricing and selling food products. Over the past two decades, the partnership between PCC SBDC, New Seasons Market and the Food Innovation Center has created a robust pathway that blends business advising, food science and product development expertise, and real-world retailer perspective.

“Twenty years is an amazing milestone,” said Tammy Marquez-Oldham, director of the SBDC. “It’s incredible to think about how many food entrepreneurs have walked into their first session with an idea, and walked out 12 weeks later with a product and a plan, all supported by experts and a community that wants them to succeed.”

The three-month training program is designed for pre-business and early-stage entrepreneurs who have a complete, consistent recipe and want to determine whether that recipe can be transformed into a viable, shelf-ready product. 

“This partnership reflects New Seasons Market’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable local food system,” said Chris Tjersland, director of brand development at New Seasons. “By supporting small food producers at the earliest stages of their journey, we’re helping create economic opportunity, strengthening our regional food community, and ensuring our stores continue to showcase local food made with care, integrity and purpose.”

The program culminates in an opportunity for participants to pitch their products to New Seasons Market buyers, strengthening connections between makers and the local retail ecosystem. Graduates of the program stand out when pitching to buyers, said New Season’s Local Finds Manager Lori Hunter.

“They show up retail-ready and understand the nuances of label compliance, shelf life, cost of goods and distribution,” Hunter said. “Wholesale isn’t intuitive or easy to access, so from a buyer’s perspective, this course is incredibly valuable. Our 20-year partnership with GYRM continues to grow and evolve, and we truly love working with brands that have completed this class.”

GYRM recently hosted an in-person pitch and sampling event for its students at New Seasons Market’s new headquarters last term. These local food entrepreneurs pitched directly to New Seasons buyers, received real-time feedback and showcased products at various stages of development, from refined shelf-ready concepts to innovative prototypes.

This experience is a hallmark of the program, offering participants an opportunity to learn what retailers look for, ask questions, and refine their approach before launching to market. Offered during spring and fall terms, the program has helped more than 500 graduates and supported more than 300 new business owners, contributing to a thriving regional food economy and expanding what shoppers can discover on local grocery shelves.

“Watching makers transform kitchen-table experiments into grocery-store-ready brands has been truly inspiring,” said Sarah Masoni, director of the Product and Process Development Program at OSU’s Food Innovation Center. “Celebrating 20 years of ‘Getting Your Recipe to Market’ fills me with immense pride and gratitude, and I’m excited to see the remarkable products the next 20 years will bring.”

For more information, visit: https://www.pcc.edu/small-business/getting-your-recipe-to-market/

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
March 5, 2026 

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Monice Wong, Media Relations Manager

Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, Portland Metro Chamber

mwong@portlandalliance.com 

Citywide Art Trail Arrives to Downtown Portland August 2026

Wildwood: Follow the Crows Trail to bring giant crow statues to Downtown Portland ahead of upcoming Wildwood movie 

(Photos attached. Please email Media Contact for higher resolution graphics)

PORTLAND, Ore. — Following the massive success of Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail, a citywide public art trail which brought tens of thousands of visitors to Downtown Portland and raised significant funds for OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Portland will once again transform with a whimsical citywide art experience. 

Launching in early August 2026, Wildwood: Follow the Crows is a new public art trail presented in partnership with LAIKA, OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Wild in Art, the Portland Metro Chamber, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, and supported by the Visit Downtown Campaign. The trail will feature almost 6-foot-tall artist-designed crow sculptures inspired by LAIKA’s upcoming stop-motion fantasy film Wildwood, placed throughout Downtown Portland to create a free, self-guided art adventure for locals and visitors alike that benefits pediatric healthcare. Yesterday, the organizations offered a sneak peek of the sculpture design. 

Local and regional artists designed each crow sculpture into a one-of-a-kind work of art, bringing color, storytelling, and imagination into Downtown public spaces. Maps, apps, digital tools, and programming will guide residents and visitors in exploring the trail. 

“After seeing the joy and energy that Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail brought to Downtown Portland, we knew we wanted to build on that momentum with another bold, creative experience,” said Andrew Hoan, President & CEO of the Portland Metro Chamber. “Downtown pedestrian activity has consistently been on the rise, with events and cultural activations driving the recovery. Wildwood: Follow the Crows will once again invite people to explore Downtown in a playful, meaningful way while supporting a great cause.”  

“Wildwood is deeply rooted in the places and story of Portland, and this art trail gives us a beautiful way to celebrate the film’s themes of adventure, bravery, and community in our hometown,” said David Burke, Chief Marketing & Operations Officer of LAIKA. “We’re thrilled to partner with the OHSU Doernbecher's, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, the Portland Metro Chamber, and Wild in Art to bring this remarkable cinematic story into Portland’s public spaces.” 

“This trail creates moments of joy and connection for families while directly supporting the care we provide to children across the region,” said Dr. Dana Braner, Physician-in-Chief at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. “We are grateful to everyone who is helping bring this project to life.”  

Wildwood is a handcrafted epic fantasy that transports audiences into a secret, dangerously alive world. A girl’s desperate quest to save her baby brother unfolds into a spectacular, high-stakes adventure through a forbidden forest full of enchanted creatures, endearing allies, and formidable adversaries—where an entire hidden realm hangs in the balance. In an era of automation, LAIKA delivers its most ambitious and globally accessible film yet—a bold fusion of human-crafted artistry and cinematic storytelling from the makers of Coraline. 

Deeply rooted in Portland, Wildwood is directed by Travis Knight and based on the bestselling novel by the lead singer and songwriter for the Decemberists, Colin Meloy, with illustrations by Portland artist Carson Ellis. 

The cast includes Carey Mulligan, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Jacob Tremblay, Mahershala Ali, Angela Bassett, Awkwafina, Jake Johnson, Charlie Day, Amandla Stenberg, Jemaine Clement, Maya Erskine, Tantoo Cardinal, Tom Waits, and Richard E. Grant. 

Wildwood is set to arrive in theaters nationwide on October 23, 2026. 

In the lead-up to the film’s release, LAIKA’s early promotional efforts for Wildwood are intentionally highlighting Portland destinations and landmarks, celebrating the city as both the creative home of the studio and the imaginative birthplace of the story. Presented by LAIKA, Wildwood: Follow the Crows extends that storytelling into the public realm, inviting residents and visitors to experience Portland through the same sense of adventure, curiosity, and magic that defines the film. 

This project is built on a powerful local story and a deeply rooted community partnership model. The trail is project-managed by OHSU Foundation, which is building on the remarkable success of Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail to once again combine public art, placemaking, and philanthropy in support of children’s health. 

Additional support comes from Wild in Art, the internationally recognized producer of large-scale public art trails around the world. 

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Wild in Art said: “We are delighted to be teaming up once again with LAIKA, OHSU Foundation, the Portland Metro Chamber, and Downtown Portland Clean & Safe as we continue our collaboration for what will be our second trail in Portland. Our events enable thousands of people of all ages to experience art by making it part of everyday life, while offering new ways for people to explore their local area. Through this trail, we hope to bring people together to create something special for the city that will deliver real and lasting impact.” 

Local delivery and management are led by the Visit Downtown Campaign, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, and the Portland Metro Chamber, organizations with deep experience in activating public spaces, supporting local artists, and driving positive downtown visitation. 

At the conclusion of the trail, the crow sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, continuing the tradition of public art serving both creativity and community impact. 

Wildwood: Follow the Crows will take flight in August 2026 until October 31, 2026. 

More details, including artist announcements, trail locations, and event programming, will be released this spring.

LAIKA: Founded in 2005 just outside Portland, Oregon, LAIKA has produced five films: Missing Link (2019), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), The Boxtrolls (2014), ParaNorman (2012) and Coraline (2009).  All were nominated for the Academy Award® for Outstanding Animated Feature. Kubo and the Two Strings won the BAFTA® Award for Best Animated Film and received an additional Oscar® nomination for Visual Effects. Missing Link was awarded the Golden Globe® for Best Animated Film. LAIKA was awarded a Scientific and Technology Oscar® in 2016 for its innovation in 3D printing. LAIKA’s next animated feature, Wildwood, will be released globally October 23, 2026.  Among the animated films in development are The Night Gardener, from an original idea by Bill Dubuque, creator of the hit series Ozark, and Piranesi, based on the NYT bestselling novel by Susanna Clarke with a screenplay to be written by Dave Kajganich.   

LAIKA’s Live Action subsidiary has a range of projects in development including a feature film based on the action thriller novel Seventeen by screenwriter John Brownlow; the original script Crumble, written and directed by Brian Duffield (Spontaneous) with Phil Lord and Chris Miller (Spider-verse films) producing, and an original project from Oscar®-nominated screenwriter Jon Spaihts (Dune).  Captain Marvel filmmakers Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck will write and direct LAIKA’s live action adaptation of #1 New York Times bestselling author Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel Atmosphere.  Lucy Liu and Charles Melton will star in director Lulu Wang’s film version of Katie Kitamura’s bestselling novel Audition, which LAIKA is producing alongside Higher Ground Productions. www.laika.com   

Wild in Art: Wild in Art is the leading producer of spectacular public art events that entertain, enrich, inform and leave a lasting legacy. Connecting businesses, the creative sector, education and community, Wild in Art brings people together through the creation of uniquely designed, artist-painted sculptures. 

Since 2008, Wild in Art has animated cities across five continents, delivering world-class art trails that transform places, drive economic impact and make art accessible to all. 

Wild in Art events have: 

• Enabled over $40.8m to be raised for charitable causes 
• Injected $7.1m into local creative communities 
• Engaged over 1.5 million young people in learning programs 
• Helped millions of people of all ages to experience art in non-traditional settings 

wildinart.com | @wildinart | #wildinart 

OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital: OHSU Doernbecher offers the region’s broadest range of pediatric treatments – to more children in more places than any other hospital in Oregon or Southwest Washington. Doernbecher also provides education to pediatric specialists throughout the region and finds cures and treatments to change the face of pediatric medical science. Learn more at OHSU.edu/Doernbecher 

Portland Metro Chamber: The Portland Metro Chamber was founded in 1870 and represents the largest, most diverse business network in the region. The Chamber brings together more than 2,200 members represented by dynamic and varied employers from around the region. Grounded in its mission to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the greater Portland and SW Washington region, the Chamber envisions a healthy and resilient business ecosystem where we work together to increase collaboration in governance; engage community; increase civic leadership; and advocate for a vibrant, livable place for all. Learn more at PortlandMetroChamber.com. 

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.  

The Visit Downtown Campaign 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. 

Media toolkit: Watch a video highlighting two dental programs here

Prevention on wheels: School-based dental programs reach rural Oregon students

Columbia County Offers Residents Free Mattress and Box Spring Recycling Opportunities

ST. HELENS, Ore., Mar. 4, 2026 — Columbia County’s Solid Waste Division is hosting four free mattress recycling events in 2026 to help residents safely dispose of mattresses and box springs.

“Mattresses are bulky items that take up a lot of space in landfills, but many of their materials can actually be recycled,” said Tatum Flowers, Solid Waste Coordinator for Columbia County. “These events give residents an easy and free way to dispose of them responsibly while helping us recover valuable materials and reduce waste in our community.”

The events will take place at the Columbia County Transfer Station, located at 1601 Railroad Avenue in St. Helens, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the following dates:

These events are open to Columbia County residents only, and each household may drop off up to five units, including mattresses and box springs.

Accepted items include mattresses made of steel innersprings, foam, fiber, or other upholstery materials, as well as box springs used to support a mattress or sleep surface. Foam mattresses are also accepted.

Items not accepted at the events include air mattresses, mattress pads or toppers, bed frames, blankets, pillows, cushions, crib mattresses, sofa or futon beds, and water beds.

Residents are encouraged to secure mattresses tightly during transport to help prevent roadway hazards.

The recycling events are part of the County’s ongoing efforts to reduce landfill waste and support responsible disposal options for residents. Recovered mattress materials can be recycled into products such as steel, wood, foam, and fibers.

ABOUT COLUMBIA COUNTY’S SOLID WASTE PROGRAM
Columbia County plans, organizes, and directs recycling, reuse, waste reduction, and household hazardous waste management programs throughout its 657-square-mile area. The County also operates a transfer station in St. Helens and administers solid waste collection services and events across its unincorporated areas.

# # #

Portland Fire responds to fatal fire at North Portland Safe Rest Village

At 5:51 PM, the Bureau of Emergency Communications dispatched out a potential fire at the North Portland Road Safe Rest Village with reports of a single living pod on fire. With a visible smoke column or header visible to arriving responders it was reported over the air that this was an obvious working fire.

With numerous callers into dispatch, there were many radio updates being transmitted to responding crews with the most informative message being the pod was “almost completely burned to the ground” at 5:54 PM, just 3 minutes after the crews were dispatched. Engine 26 arrived on scene 2 minutes later at 5:56 PM to confirm the pod was nearly completely consumed by fire. The crew was able to quickly extend a hose and eliminate the remaining fire present with tank water. Other responding engines staged at fire hydrants to establish a supply water if the fire extended to any neighboring living and sleeping pods and more water was needed for extinguishment. Fortunately, the fire was contained to a single pod and was completely extinguished with a small amount of water provided from the on-board tank carried by the first arriving fire engine.

It was confirmed that the occupant of the pod was on the interior and did not survive the fire event. The PF&R – PPB Fire Investigations Unit is on scene performing a forensic evaluation of the pod to discover the cause of the fire. This includes evaluating the pod itself as well as interviewing other residents present and evaluating any available video footage.

It should be noted that staff members present at the site used many handheld fire extinguishers in an attempt and reducing or eliminating the fire prior to the arrival of any PF&R crews. Unfortunately, the fire was too hot and too large to be completely extinguished using the handheld extinguishers.

Further information regarding the identity of the individual and cause of the fire will be released later.

###

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

UPDATED INFORMATION BELOW

Family Notification has occured and we are able to release the identification of the fire victim from the North Porland Road Safe Rest Village pod fire from Monday evening. 

Fire Victim Identification

• Gary Scott Young
• 33 Years Old
• DOB - 05/11/1992

###

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver continues its weekly DocArts series this spring with a screening of "Samud: A Doctor's Report on Genocide and Survival in Gaza" and a talk by filmmaker Jan Haaken. 

The event will take place March 11 on campus in the Dengerink Administration Building, Room 110. Weekly artist screenings begin at 11 a.m., followed by the screening of “Sumud” at 11:30 a.m. Haaken will speak from noon to 1 p.m., followed by a reception in the art gallery. The screening, talk and reception are free and open to the public.

Haaken is professor emeritus of psychology at Portland State University, a clinical psychologist and documentary filmmaker. From refugee camps and war zones to abortion clinics and pipeline protests, as well as drag bars, dairy farms and hip-hop clubs, her films explore contested social spaces and sites of repressed collective memory.

“Sumud” centers on Palestinian physicians providing care under siege conditions in Gaza, documenting both the ethical demands and emotional toll of medical work amid ongoing violence. The film is a sequel to “The Palestine Exception” and part of a body of work that includes “Our Bodies Our Doctors,” the two-part “Necessity Series” and “Atomic Bamboozle: The False Promise of a Nuclear Renaissance.”

The DocArts series brings together film and video screenings, artist talks and community conversations throughout the spring term. The series features a diverse group of multimedia artists, activists and public intellectuals, from community organizers whose lives are deeply documented to poets, songwriters and hip-hop performers working across media.

DocArts is a joint project of the WSU Vancouver Collective for Social and Environmental Justice, Native American Programs, Center for Intercultural Learning and Affirmation, and Council for Community, Engagement, Dialogue and Impact.

For more information about DocArts events, email van.csej@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

# # #

Salem, Ore - The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council will meet from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, online via Zoom. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Elke Bruton, Program Manager at 971-375-3509 or elke.bruton@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 Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov.  

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION AND LIBRARY SERVICES 

ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

1:30 PM to 3:00 PM (Virtual)

• Welcome (Elke Bruton, 5 minutes)

• Public Comment(5 minutes) 

• Approval of minutes from 12/9/25 (5 minutes)

• Advisory Council Member Updates (30 minutes)

• State Librarian update (Wendy Cornelisen, 10 minutes)

• Manager updates (Elke Bruton, 15 minutes)

• Division Program Report (topic TBA)

• Meeting review

• Adjournment

Any person may address the Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any questions or issues raised to the State Librarian. 

Salem, OR – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 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.

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

March 9, 2026

Virtual

Agenda

9:30 a.m.         Welcome and Introductions

9:45 a.m.         Review and discussion of the draft report “Exploring the Oregon Library Community’s Understanding and Expectations of the State Library”                                 

10:45 a.m.       Wrap up and next steps 

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

Kelso School District joins the community in honoring the life and legacy of former school board member Bob Simmons, whose 31 years of service helped shape the district and support generations of Kelso students.

Simmons served on the Kelso School Board from 1983 to 2014, making him the second-longest serving board member in district history. Over more than three decades of leadership, he helped guide the district through periods of growth and change, serving alongside five different superintendents while providing steady governance and a clear focus on student success.

A chemical engineer at Weyerhaeuser, Simmons brought a thoughtful and analytical approach to his work on the board. He was deeply committed to responsible, orderly governance and played an instrumental role in developing Kelso School District’s original Operating Principles, helping establish expectations for how the board would conduct its work on behalf of students and the community.

Simmons was also known for his strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and accountability to taxpayers. He maintained a close watch on the district’s budget and believed in transparency around both financial stewardship and student performance. At the same time, Simmons remained firmly focused on the district’s core mission: student success. He championed high academic expectations for all students and supported interventions and systems designed to ensure every learner had the opportunity to meet those standards.

Simmons’ connection to the district was also personal. All three of his sons—Andrew, Michael, and Benjamin—graduated from Kelso High School.

Bob’s leadership and dedication helped build a strong foundation for our schools,” said Kelso Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. “His commitment to thoughtful governance, fiscal responsibility, and student success has left a lasting imprint on the Kelso School District. I am forever grateful for the legacy he created and the impact his service continues to have on our students, staff, and community. His leadership will continue to benefit Kelso students for years to come.”

Bob Simmons passed away on February 28, 2026. Kelso School District extends its deepest condolences to Bob’s wife, Chris, and the Simmons family.

The memorial is Friday, March 6, at 6:00 pm at Highline Christian Church (14859 1^st Ave S) in Burien, Washington.

About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.  When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 4, 2026   

MEDIA CONTACT:

Monice Wong, Manager of Media Relations 

mwong@portlandalliance.com

Portland Metro Chamber President & CEO Applauds Senate for Advancing Moda Center Renovation Bill, Calls on House and Governor to Make the Layup

Portland, OR — Following the advancement of Senate Bill 1501 today, Portland Metro Chamber President & CEO Andrew Hoan applauded the Senate and urged passage by the House and the Governor.

Hoan said, "Today is a great day for the State of Oregon. We commend the Senators for their bipartisan, clear-eyed, and swift actions to invest in Oregon’s Arena, the economic and cultural heartbeat of our state. This is precisely the kind of policymaking we need to secure a more vibrant Portland, and a more vibrant Portland means an economically healthier state of Oregon. We are grateful for the leadership of Senate President Wagner and Senator Lieber for prioritizing the importance of the home teams, and we now call on the House and the Governor to take the ball from the Senate and make the layup by advancing the bill into law." 

March 4, 2026

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Total nonprofit hospital community benefit spending rebounded in 2024  

However, fewer individual hospitals and health systems met minimum spending requirements

What you should know: 

PORTLAND, Ore. – After spending less the year before, Oregon hospitals and health systems collectively spent more on free or discounted health care, health education and research, donations and other community benefit activities during the 2024 fiscal year, according to a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data brief. At the same time, fewer individual hospitals and health systems met their state community benefit spending requirements in 2024. 

March 4, 2026

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Total nonprofit hospital community benefit spending rebounded in 2024  

However, fewer individual hospitals and health systems met minimum spending requirements

What you should know: 

PORTLAND, Ore. – After spending less the year before, Oregon hospitals and health systems collectively spent more on free or discounted health care, health education and research, donations and other community benefit activities during the 2024 fiscal year, according to a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data brief. At the same time, fewer individual hospitals and health systems met their state community benefit spending requirements in 2024. 

9-1-1 Communications District Submits Ballot Title for Proposed Operations Levy

ST. HELENS, Ore. [March 04, 2026] — The Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District has submitted a ballot title for a proposed operations levy for an upcoming election.

The levy would support the District’s emergency communications services, including 9-1-1 call-taking, dispatch operations, and the technology and infrastructure that support emergency response throughout Columbia County.

“Emergency communications play a critical role in public safety across Columbia County,” said Jeff Flatt, President of the Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District Board of Directors. “Submitting the ballot title allows the community to review the proposal and better understand how the District supports law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical response.”

The ballot title and summary were submitted to the Columbia County Elections Office in accordance with Oregon election law. Once certified, the ballot title will be published for public review and comment within the timelines established by the state’s election process.

The proposed levy is intended to maintain current service levels and support operational needs, including staffing, technology systems, and equipment used to coordinate emergency response across the county.

Jeremy Hipes
Executive Director
Columbia 911 Communications District
jhipes@columbia911.com
503-366-6971

Full Details

Some highlights; 

On 1/2/26, A Milwaukie Patrol Officer observed a male seated in a vehicle parked suspiciously in the Ardenwald neighborhood. The Officer contacted the male who had visible drug paraphernalia. Upon further investigation the Officer arrested the male for a number of charges and transported him to the Clackamas County Jail, subsequently following up on other related criminal activity after seizing a large quantity of narcotics, a stolen firearm and other contraband.  On 2/20/26 - Michael K. Gregory, 55 was sentenced through the Clackamas County Circuit Court to 18 months in jail after a conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful possession of Meth and Unlawful possession of Fentanyl. He had been indicted prior on multiple other charges including delivery of a controlled substance.

On February 2^nd, Milwaukie Officer responded to a local apartment complex on report of a male who had self-harmed. Officers arrived and located a significant amount of blood, and the person had exited their residence and walked toward a wooded area. Evening had overwhelmed the area, and conventional light was not sufficient to continue the search. and Officers reached out for search and rescue resources. After losing the trail into thick brush, Officers launched a thermal camera equipped Small Uncrewed Aircraft System (drone) and quickly located the person who had crawled deep into thick brush getting them to medical attention in serious condition.

On February 5, A Hillsboro man who sexually and physically abused a girl he met online was sentenced Tuesday to 42 years in prison by the Clackamas County Circuit Court. During a search of Winkelhake’s home, investigators found sexual paraphernalia and other items he used to abuse the girl. They discovered incriminating photos, internet history and written communication on his phone. Milwaukie Police search dog “Flora”, an Electronic Storage Device (ESD) K9 assisted in the search warrant for this case in support of @clackcosheriff investigators. Flora located several devices including one that was specifically hidden where investigators would not have located it, containing valuable evidence. Full story: https://www.clackamas.us/news/2026-02-04/hillsboro-man-who-sexually-physically-abused-girl-sentenced-to-42-years-in-prison K9 Flora was made possibly through a gift from the Milwaukie Public Safety Foundation.

On 2/6/26, Milwaukie Police was able to work with Clackamas County Dog Services to corral a loose Wolf hybrid dog which had been wandering in the Hector Campbell and Lake Rd. neighbohood(s) for several days. The Dog had not been aggressive toward people but was trying to attack other dogs and pets. Thank you to alert neighbors who kept tabs on his whereabouts updating us regularly to get him safely under wraps.

On 2/16/26, Traffic Officers conducted an informal traffic safety sting on King Road in the construction zone. While Officers reported most folks were driving responsibly, they still issued 18 citations with 26 violations and impounded 3 vehicles. Traffic Officers reported illegal cell phone usage as the number one violation.

On 2/20/26, Milwaukie Police were called to the intersection of SE Harrison St. and SE Railroad Ave. on report of a black sedan which was stuck on the train tracks. While enroute the unoccupied black Ford Mustang was struck by an Amtrak train. Witnesses reported that the Mustang was abandoned on the tracks by the driver, who had left the area. On 2/22/26, The driver of the black vehicle was identified and issued a criminal citation for failure to perform the duties of a driver with other charges under consideration as the investigation is ongoing. Milwaukie Police would like to thank the public for their assistance and tips on this incident. 

For clarity and as a safety public service message, the driver of this vehicle missed the turn for a local business driving onto the railroad tracks Eastbound as the tracks continue away from SE Harrison St. and the vehicle became stuck. When an accident like this occurs and the vehicle is stuck, do not try to remedy the situation yourself. It is imperative that the driver or a witness calls 911, and the driver or a witness looks quickly for the blue railroad sign posted at ALL railroad crossings. On the blue sign is a phone number and a rail crossing. The dispatcher on this line can stop rail traffic quickly. While this is also important for Trimet Max line crossings, Max trains can stop much quicker than large passenger or freight trains. Linked is railway safety public service announcement previously shared by Milwaukie Police in partnership with Operation Lifesaver.

https://youtu.be/-ymJFDwXEww?si=-160oSf9omAcn9py

Former High Desert Museum communications director Heidi Hagemeier will manage communications for Oregon Arts Commission and Cultural Trust.
 

SALEM, Oregon — Business Oregon is pleased to announce the hiring of Heidi Hagemeier as the Communications Coordinator for the Oregon Arts Commission and Cultural Trust programming.

Hagemeier brings over two decades of experience in journalism and communications to the role, along with a career-long dedication to storytelling that connects and inspires. Her professional background is rooted in mission-driven work that benefits local communities.
 

“Heidi brings an incredible ability to craft stories that resonate and inspire,” said Amy Lewin, Director of Arts & Culture. “That talent is exactly what Oregon’s arts and culture sector needs right now to show how creativity drives our economy and strengthens communities. Her experience will help us amplify that message statewide, ensuring cultural programs continue to deliver impact where it matters most.”

Most recently, she served for nearly eight years as the Director of Communications and Visitor Experience at the High Desert Museum in Bend. During her tenure, she oversaw the doubling of the organization’s digital following, guided brand development and played a key role in successful fundraising efforts.

Raised in Montana, Hagemeier developed an early appreciation for the vital role arts and cultural access plays in community health. She earned degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison before moving to Oregon in 2001. Since then, she has explored every corner of the state, gaining a deep understanding of its diverse landscapes and people.

In her new role, Hagemeier will support the Oregon Arts Commission and Cultural Trust in their efforts to sustain and elevate the state’s cultural landscape. She maintains a firm belief that arts and culture are essential for building economically vibrant communities and elevating shared humanity.

____________________________________________________________________________

Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency, invests in Oregon businesses, communities, and people to promote a globally competitive, diverse, and inclusive economy. The agency’s services span rural community development and infrastructure financing; business retention, expansion and recruitment; export promotion and international trade; investments in industry research and development and entrepreneurship; small business assistance; and support for arts and cultural organizations. Learn more at biz.oregon.gov.

Neighbors for a Better Crossing Urges Oregon Legislators to Demand Full Audit of IBR Project, Echoing Washington’s HB 2669—While Calling on USDOT to Investigate Massive Cost Overruns

Portland, OR – Neighbors for a Better Crossing (N4BC), a coalition of concerned residents, engineers, and advocates dedicated to sustainable and cost-effective solutions for the Interstate 5 crossing over the Columbia River, calls on Oregon legislators to introduce and pass legislation demanding a comprehensive, independent audit of the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program.

This mirrors Washington House Bill 2669, introduced by Rep. John Ley (R-Vancouver) on January 26, 2026, which requires the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) to scrutinize the project’s planning, management, costs, consultant spending, forecasting, and oversight since its 2019 restart.

As of March 3, 2026, HB 2669 remains pending in Washington’s House Transportation Committee, awaiting a public hearing. N4BC endorses the bill and urges Oregon lawmakers to act swiftly with parallel measures to ensure taxpayer accountability before billions more are wasted on a project plagued by hidden costs, mismanagement, and flawed alternatives evaluations.

“The IBR program’s escalating price tag—now estimated at up to $17.7 billion according to internal documents obtained via public records requests—demands immediate transparency and oversight,” said Gary Clark, Chair of Neighbors for a Better Crossing. “Washington’s HB 2669 is a critical step toward uncovering the truth about cost overruns, inaccurate forecasting, and the dismissal of viable alternatives like an immersed tube tunnel (ITT). Oregon must follow suit with its own audit legislation to protect residents from a ‘bridge too far’ that fails to solve congestion while burdening taxpayers with massive debt.”

N4BC’s call comes amid revelations from Willamette Week and economist Joe Cortright that IBR staff withheld updated cost estimates (ballooning from $6 billion to $13.6–$17.7 billion) from a December 2025 bi-state legislative meeting, despite having detailed drafts as early as August 2025. This lack of transparency, combined with the project’s failure to address traffic needs (providing no additional general-purpose lanes) and environmental impacts (e.g., drilled shafts risking fish habitat destruction, and structural damage to nearby homes and businesses), underscores the need for forensic scrutiny.

N4BC recently emailed U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy urging an immediate investigation into the IBR’s failure to report its massive cost overrun—from $6 billion to $17.7 billion—and to withhold all federal funding, including Bridge Investment Program grants, until a thorough probe is completed. “The federal government must step in to prevent further misuse of taxpayer dollars on this mismanaged project,” Clark added. 

Given the magnitude of anticipated federal funding participation—including Bridge Investment Program grants and other federal transportation allocation N4BC requests that USDOT:
1.    Review the timeline of cost estimate development and disclosure;
2.    Evaluate compliance with federal transparency and reporting requirements;
3.    Assess the reliability of current financial forecasts and risk assumptions;
4.    Examine whether community-specific mitigation and compensation frameworks are sufficiently defined prior to construction;
5.    Suspend further federal funding commitments until a complete, independent financial and seismic review is conducted, and lower-cost, technically feasible alternatives—including an immersed tube tunnel (ITT)—are fully evaluated and transparently compared.

N4BC references key resources for context:

Hidden costs, withheld documents, and a $17 billion question – Why the Interstate Bridge Replacement demands immediate oversight

Interstate Bridge Staff Hid Information About Ballooning Cost of Giant Highway Project

N4BC’s analysis of the IBR’s disinformation campaign and viable ITT alternatives: 

Rep. John Ley’s article on HB 2669

Joe Cortright’s interview on the $17.7 billion estimate

Failing to Learn from failed Columbia River Crossing

The IBR project is a perfect example of why less than 25 percent of Americans trust government

N4BC urges Oregon legislators to prioritize audit legislation in the current session. “Transparency isn’t optional—it’s essential to rebuilding public trust and exploring cost-effective options like an ITT combined with repurposing the historic bridges,” Clark said.

About Neighbors for a Better Crossing

Neighbors for a Better Crossing is an Oregon nonprofit coalition advocating for smarter, more affordable alternatives to the IBR’s mega-bridge proposal. Comprising engineers, former officials, neighborhood groups, and residents, N4BC promotes solutions like immersed tube tunnels that solve congestion, preserve historic structures, and minimize environmental harm—potentially without tolls. For more information, visit www.neighbors4a-bettercrossing.org 

SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved several grant recommendations and rule updates, including changes to camping cancellation policy, special access pass program requirements and rate ranges, at its February 24, 2026, virtual meeting.
 

The updated reservation rules will go into effect beginning April 2026. These rules, 736-015-0006 to 736-015-0043, will update the agency cancellation policy, refunds, special access passes and rate ranges.
 

Changes include:
 

Cancellation Policy:

• No refunds on the day of arrival. 
• No-show reservations will not be refunded.
• Refunds vary based on how long the reservation was held and how close to arrival it is canceled. 

Special Access Pass:

• New passes granted only to Oregon residents.
• Free Day Use parking year-round.
• 4 nights of free camping per calendar month.

Other items:

• Updates reservation rate ranges to reflect future costs.
  • These rate ranges set only the minimum and maximum allowed amounts. They are not the actual price visitors will pay.
  • Actual rates will continue to be set separately and may stay the same or change gradually over time. This change allows greater use of demand-based pricing across seasons and park types.
  • The new rate ranges are not new rates. These ranges allow for the director to set new rates within the approved range to respond to inflation and operational needs.

• State Parks Day will provide free parking for Oregon residents.
  • Individuals with existing camping reservations for June 6, 2026 will continue to have camping fees waived.
• Updates language to allow for input of license plate input instead of printed tags.

The request to adopt rules guiding use of unmanned aircraft systems in parks and on the ocean shore was postponed until the April 2026 commission meeting.
 

The commission approved the following grant recommendations:

• All-Terrain Vehicle Program 15 grants totaling $1,402,458 (Grants funded by ATV user permit sales and percentage of gas tax)
• County Opportunity Grant with 9 grants totaling $2,171,547 (Grant program funded by RV license plate registration dollars)

Additional approved action items include:

• Acknowledgement of a donation from Fastap Screw Company.
• Addition of Ewuana Flats to the State Natural Areas Program
• Approval to proceed with construction contracts for Lake Owyhee and Cape Lookout.

This was the first meeting for Commissioner Chane Griggs. Commissioner Griggs represents congressional district six. She is active in the Salem community and retired from a career with the state of Oregon. Commissioner Griggs enjoys camping with her family, including many spring break trips tent camping at Wallowa Lake State Park when her children were younger.
 

The next commission meeting will be held virtually on April 22, 2026.

To watch the February commission meeting or any others, visit https://bit.ly/oprdlive and find supporting documents on the commission webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/CAC/Pages/CAC-oprc.aspx
 

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year virtually or at locations across the state.

Correction: Corrections in italics in original release below.

OSP regrets the number of corrections related to this incident and any distress these errors have caused the involved families to experience. We are always working on process improvement to keep our news releases free from error.

Columbia County, Ore (March 2, 2026)- On Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 5:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 30, near milepost 64, in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Indian Chieftan motorcycle, operated by Nick Anthony Verne (32) of Kalama (WA), was negotiating a sweeping right hand turn when it crossed the centerline into the westbound lane and sideswiped a westbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Kenneth Edward Uphoff (73) of Ocean Park (WA), before striking a westbound Toyota 4Runner, operated by Elliette Michelle Vasaquez (32) of Astoria, head-on.

The operator of the Indian motorcycle (Verne) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Toyota 4Runner (E. Vasquez) and passenger, Michael Evaristo Vasquez (60) of Astoria, suffered reported minor injuries and were transported to an area medical center.

The operator of the Toyota Rav4 (Uphoff) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Rainier Police Department, Columbia River Fire and Rescue, and ODOT.

# # #

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands (CFF) will meet virtually on Wednesday, March 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Forest Legacy Program update
• Forest Stewardship Program update
• Forest Conservation Tax Credit Program (FCTC) update
• Land trust presentation
• Discuss landowner at large position and co-chair

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. 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 503-949-4785 or by email at estlands@odf.oregon.gov">committee.of.family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

March 4, 2026 

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

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month – know the risks of sports betting and where to find help

What you should know:

• Sports betting can lead to serious negative consequences.
• Know the signs of problem gambling – spending more money that intended, mental health concerns or having difficulty controlling the amount of time and money spent.
• Seek help by calling the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-695-4648.

SALEM, Ore. - March marks Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling, particularly the growing trend of sports betting. Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is committed to providing resources and support for individuals and families affected by problem gambling.

As the popularity of sports betting continues to rise, so do the risks. Many individuals may find themselves vulnerable to the allure of betting on their favorite teams, especially with the hype around March Madness, which can lead to serious financial and emotional consequences. 

"Understanding the risks associated with gambling is crucial for our community," said Greta Coe, problem gambling program manager at OHA. "We encourage everyone to be informed and use the resources available to help prevent gambling-related harm."

Individuals who gamble should be aware of the signs of problem gambling, such as spending more time and money than intended, mental health concerns or having difficulty controlling the amount of time and money spent.

OHA provides a variety of no-cost resources to support individuals seeking help:

• 24/7 Confidential Helpline: A toll-free Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-695-4648 for those in need of immediate support.
• Online Resources: Visit the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource website for educational materials, self-assessment tools and information about local treatment options and support groups at www.opgr.org
• Evive: This innovative digital resource supports individuals seeking a healthier relationship with gambling, whether they want to stop, cut back, or feel more in control. Learn more at getevive.com.
• Gamfin: A financial counseling service for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction, offering expert support with budgeting, debt management, and rebuilding financial stability during recovery.

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EUGENE, Ore.— A Springfield, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for a federal hate crime after assaulting a victim on the basis of their sexual orientation.

Daniel Andrew McGee, 26, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

“The right to live safely in one’s community is a fundamental civil right. The District of Oregon remains committed to combatting hate crimes and protecting that right for all,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “While no conviction can undo the harm caused, we hope this sentence will bring some measure of justice to the victim and our community.”

“Hate crimes impact not just individuals, but entire communities,” said Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres. “The FBI works together with our partners to prevent hate crimes from impacting our communities, and every attack on someone because of who and what they are deserves to be acted on by the full extent of the law.” 

According to court documents, on the evening of July 5, 2021, McGee met the victim at the victim’s apartment after communicating on the dating application Grindr, an application originally designed for, and primarily used by, gay men. McGee assaulted the victim over the course of several minutes, striking the victim on the head with a wooden tire thumper and using his hands to try to gouge the victim’s eyes out. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries during the assault, including serious head wounds.

The investigation revealed McGee had been researching and planning the attack for weeks. For at least one month prior to the attack, McGee searched the internet for homophobic and graphically violent anti-gay material. McGee planned for the attack by purchasing the weapon and other materials from Amazon and searching the internet for suggestions on how to get away with murder.

On November 18, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene, Oregon, returned a one-count indictment charging McGee with a federal hate crime involving an attempt to kill.

On November 25, 2025, McGee pleaded guilty to count one of the Indictment.

The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. Joseph Huynh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Tenette Smith, Trial Attorney for the Civil Rights Division Criminal Section, prosecuted the case.

# # #

State of Oregon v. Atilano III Davalos III

Marion County: 24CR31639

Salem, OR – March 3, 2026 - Today, The Honorable Marion County Circuit Court Judge Sean Armstrong sentenced Atilano III Davalos III (age 40) to 110 months, or 9 years and 2 months, in the Oregon Department of Corrections after the defendant pled guilty to one count of Manslaughter in the Second Degree for recklessly causing the death of Carla Vasquez.  

In the early morning hours on May 23, 2024, the defendant drove in a vehicle with Carla Vasquez as his passenger.  At the time, Vasquez and the defendant were in an on-again, off-again relationship.  They had gone to a bar after Vasquez finished work for the day. A video recovered from the defendant’s phone shows Vasquez, who had been drinking and was intoxicated, hanging out of the vehicle’s front passenger window while the defendant can be heard telling her to get back into the car.

At some point, the defendant turned off a busy road and into a residential area. Vehicle data showed he accelerated slightly, then abruptly and sharply braked causing Vasquez to be thrown from the vehicle and into the roadway. The vehicle’s built in dash camera shows the defendant stopping the vehicle, apparently exiting the car, and quickly returning to the car to drive away. Mr. Davalos III did not call 911, there is no evidence he attempted to aid Vasquez himself, and he made no effort to get Vasquez medical attention, including taking her to Salem Hospital which was approximately 6 minutes away from the location.  Vasquez’s body was discovered in the street shortly afterward by a resident in the 1000 block of Rural Avenue Southwest in Salem.

The defendant is known to have stayed at a relative's home for several days.  Salem SWAT later arrested him after he hid in his mother’s attic for six hours, despite repeated commands from Salem Police to exit the residence.   

Davalos was initially charged with Manslaughter in the First Degree, which carries a minimum sentence of 120 months in prison.  The Marion County District Attorney’s Office consulted with the victim’s family before accepting a plea agreement to Manslaughter in the Second Degree. In exchange for the guilty plea, Davalos asked the court to sentence him to 91 months.  However, after hearing from the State during the sentencing proceeding, the Judge imposed the State's requested enhanced sentence of 110 months without early release nor eligibility for other programming- 10 months less than Davalos would have received under the original Manslaughter in the First Degree charge.  (A guilty plea affords considerably less opportunities to challenge a conviciton in the future.)

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office extends its sincere gratitude to the Salem Police Department for its thorough investigation and to the officers and detectives whose work ensured justice in this case.  This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple.

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

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

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The Beaverton Police Department announces the conviction and sentencing of 62-year-old Andrew Alcante following a lengthy investigation and jury trial involving the sexual abuse of two young children.

In December 2023, Beaverton Police Detectives initiated an investigation after the Umatilla Police Department referred a report of child sexual abuse to BPD. One of the victims disclosed the abuse to an extended family member while on vacation, prompting the initial report.

The suspect, Andrew Alcante, was an acquaintance of the victims’ family and had met them through jiu-jitsu training. Detectives uncovered evidence that Alcante used his charismatic demeanor to build connections within martial arts, church, and recovery communities. From these positions of trust, he targeted vulnerable families and exploited access to children.

In 2024, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted Alcante on multiple sex crimes against children. Following his arrest, Alcante posted bail. The case proceeded through the judicial process for approximately eighteen months, culminating in a jury trial in December 2025.

A Washington County jury subsequently convicted Alcante of multiple Measure 11 sex crimes. He was immediately taken into custody pending sentencing. At sentencing last week in Washington County Circuit Court, Judge Proctor imposed a 450-month prison sentence. Alcante will be nearly 100 years old before becoming eligible for parole.

The Beaverton Police Department encourages anyone who believes they may have been a victim of abuse, or who has information related to this case, to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a special meeting at 11:00 a.m. on March 4, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Fire Marshal Frederick E. Ulrich (DPSST #37801); North Lincoln Fire & Rescue; Initial Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

Administrative Announcement

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

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 10:40 p.m., deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office  and officers from the Hillsboro Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots near the 8300 block of NE Quatama Street in Beaverton. Callers reported seeing the driver of a 2017 Ford F-150 firing a handgun from the vehicle’s window.
 

Deputies and officers searched the area and located the F-150 parked outside a nearby residence. Investigators found shell casings on the ground near the vehicle. Deputies contacted the residents of the home and identified the driver as 24-year-old Andres Alfaro-Reyes.
 

During the investigation, deputies determined Alfaro-Reyes was intoxicated at the time of the incident. He was arrested and lodged on the following charges:

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Recklessly Endangering Another Person
• DUII
• Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree

No injuries or property damage have been reported.
 

Anyone with additional information about this incident who has not yet spoken with investigators is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office through non-emergency dispatch and reference case number 50-26-2505.

PORTLAND, Ore. (March 3, 2026) ~ March 4 is HPV Awareness Day, a time to highlight cervical cancer prevention and address persistent myths around Human papillomavirus (HPV), vaccination, and cervical cancer screening. Kaiser Permanente Northwest is offering interviews with Amanda Petrik, PhD, a Portland-based researcher whose work focuses on increasing education about the HPV virus, expanding access to HPV prevention, and reducing long-standing disparities in cervical cancer outcomes.

HPV causes cervical cancer and is also linked to six other cancers, including anal, oropharyngeal (mouth and throat), penile, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. The HPV vaccine is an effective cancer-prevention vaccine available today for both females and males. Yet screening gaps remain: more than half of cervical cancer cases occur among people who were never or rarely screened, with lower screening rates in safety-net clinics that serve low-income and racially diverse populations.

“Cervical cancer is largely preventable, but prevention only works if people can access tools that fit their lives,” said Amanda Petrik, PhD, investigator with the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research in Portland. “Whether it’s expanding HPV vaccination in school-based health centers or offering self-collected screening as an alternative to a Pap test, our goal is to reduce barriers and prevent cancer before it starts.”

Dr. Petrik is a health services researcher with more than 20 years of experience studying health systems, policy, and cancer prevention in real-world settings, including community and safety-net clinics. Her current National Cancer Institute-funded study, STEP-2, is testing FDA-approved HPV self-sampling kits as a cervical cancer screening option for patients who are due or overdue for screening. The study aims to identify the most effective and cost-efficient ways to implement programs that increase screening rates and reduce disparities as the technology rolls out nationally.

Interviews available:

Amanda Petrik, PhD, health services researcher with the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, is available for interviews on Wednesday, March 4 from 9-10:30 a.m. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org/" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Petrik is prepared to discuss:

• How the HPV vaccine protects against HPV virus and multiple cancers

• Who should get the HPV vaccine and when it’s typically recommended (age 9)

• How HPV self-collection (cervical cancer screening) works and why it may improve screening rates

• Disparities in cervical cancer screening and outcomes

• What Cervical Health Awareness Month means for prevention and public health

About Kaiser Permanente

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

Recent Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani to give special performance at Historic Grand Theatre in Salem

SALEM, Oregon — The Oregon Arts Commission is proud to present the 2026 Poetry Out Loud State Championships. High school students from across Oregon will gather at the Historic Grand Theatre on March 7 to compete in a dynamic display of memorization, performance and literary interpretation.

WHAT: 2026 Poetry Out Loud Oregon State Championships

WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Historic Grand Theatre, 187 High St. NE, Salem, OR 97301

The students advancing to Oregon’s 2026 State Contest are:

Alida Shi Lyons, Cleveland High School (Portland);
Ariana Morris, Redmond High School (Redmond);
Bena Rodecap, Grant High School (Portland);
Drishti Singh, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego);
Emma Keen, Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem);
Gabriel Hall, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton);
Josiah Gaither, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton);
Kaydence Pope, South Medford High School (Medford);
Molly Wheeler, South Medford High School (Medford);
Rain Obiesie, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego);
Samantha Faulkner, Trinity Academy (Portland).

VISUALS & MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES

At the conclusion of the event (approx. 4 p.m.), media representatives are invited to:

• Conduct interviews with the newly crowned state champion.

• Take photos of the state champion with Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson and Oregon Arts Commission Chair Jason Holland.

• A media release, images and video announcing the winner will also be made available before 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 7.

A partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, the Oregon Arts Commission and jurisdictional arts agencies, Poetry Out Loud is a national program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and dynamic recitation competitions. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about literary history and contemporary life. The Oregon state champion will receive $200 and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Finals for a chance to win the $20,000 grand prize. The winner’s school will also receive $500 for poetry materials. The runner-up will receive $100 and their school will receive $200 for materials.

RSVP

Media members planning to attend or requesting post-event interviews are asked to confirm their attendance by contacting Heidi Hagemeier, Arts & Culture Communications Coordinator, 971-518-0966, Heidi.Hagemeier@biz.oregon.gov by March 6.

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The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. The Arts Commission is part of Business Oregon in recognition of the vital role the arts play in supporting the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2026

Vancouver Public Schools Kindergarten Enrollment
for 2026-27 School Year Now Open

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Vancouver Public Schools (VPS) is now enrolling kindergarteners for the 2026-27 school year. Families with children who will be 5 before August 31 should choose the program or school they would like to enroll their child in and submit an application. Applications for Choice schools and programs need to be submitted by May 11. 

VPS offers a variety of kindergarten options to meet the needs of students and families:

• Neighborhood Schools: The traditional option, allowing children to attend school close to home, fostering strong community connections.

• Dual-Language Programs: Available in Spanish and Mandarin at select neighborhood schools.

• Choice Schools:

  • Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary – A fully Spanish-English dual-language school.

  • VITA Elementary – A project-based learning school.

  • Vancouver Home Connection – A hybrid learning environment for students in grades K-8.

To help families explore these options, VPS invites parents and guardians to attend an upcoming event to learn more about their neighborhood school or any Choice school or program they may be interested in. These events are an opportunity to learn more about the schools and programs, meet staff, and understand what to expect in kindergarten. For more details, head to the VPS Elementary Options page.

Families who need help enrolling their child can receive in-person help during weekday business hours at the VPS Welcome Center, 2901 Falk Road, Vancouver, WA, 98661. Help is also available over the phone at 360-313-1330.

For more details on our elementary programs, visit vansd.org/elementary-options/. Parents who are ready to register their child should visit vansd.org/kindergarten/.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A Bend, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition after officers responded to gunfire in the Deschutes National Forest.

Cody Joe Hunt, 38, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on Feb. 13, 2025, U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officers responded to gunfire in the Deschutes National Forest near China Hat Road. Officers arrived to find Hunt fleeing into the woods, leaving behind an assault rifle and shell casings.  They tracked him through the snow and discovered ammunition in his pockets matching the assault rifle. He was arrested on separate charges. A search warrant for Hunt’s devices revealed additional evidence that he had possessed the rifle found in the woods in the preceding weeks after participating in its purchase at a local firearm dealer. Hunt is a convicted felon and is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

On Sept. 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a two-count superseding indictment charging Hunt with felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

On Nov. 18, 2025, Hunt pleaded guilty to counts one and two.

The U.S. Forest Service investigated the case with support from the Deschutes County Digital Forensics Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren prosecuted the case.

# # #

OHA highlights rising injuries, safety risks tied to e-bike/e-scooter use

What you should know:

• E-scooters, e-bicycles and other micromobility options are expanding across Oregon.
• Injuries involving e-bikes and e-scooters share common risk factors.
• E-scooter injuries are relatively new in health care reporting.
• OHA monitors injury trends and works with partners to promote safe riding.

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Kujala has been appointed by Governor Tina Kotek to serve on the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA).

The IFA plays a key role in supporting Oregon communities by providing financial assistance for essential infrastructure projects, including water systems, wastewater facilities, transportation improvements, and other critical public works that strengthen local economies and public health.

“I’m honored to be appointed to the IFA,” said Kujala. “Strong infrastructure is essential to thriving communities, especially in rural and coastal areas like Clatsop County and I look forward to supporting investments that will benefit Oregonians statewide.”

As Chair of the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners, Kujala has been actively engaged in efforts to support economic development, housing, transportation, and environmental resilience. Governor Kotek’s appointment recognizes the importance of local voices in shaping statewide infrastructure policy and funding priorities.

Chair Kujala’s term begins March 1, 2026, and runs through February 28, 2030.

For more information about the Oregon IFA, visit the Oregon Business Development Department website.

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio celebrates Women’s History Month with episode #95, “Mae West Jewel Robbery,” premiering at 1 p.m. March 16. The episode pays tribute to Mae West—performer, playwright and cultural icon—whose unapologetic wit and bold persona challenged censorship and redefined expectations for women on stage, screen and radio.

Outspoken and controversial, West built her career through vaudeville acts, Broadway stage plays and motion pictures known for their steamy settings and sly, double-entendre dialogue. Her work and public persona championed female equality and independence at a time when the status quo dictated how women should behave. Attempts to censor and silence her only elevated her profile, securing her place as an international icon who made scandal stylish.

“Mae West Jewel Robbery” samples West’s early stage and screen career, presents a dramatized jewel heist inspired by her larger-than-life reputation, and features two rare network radio appearances from 1937 – 1950. Together, the selections highlight West’s inimitable voice, sharp comic timing, and fearless approach to sexuality and self-expression.

The episode also includes excerpts from “The Mae West Jewel Robbery” installment of the classic radio crime series “Calling All Cars,” which sidestepped controversy by employing a popular Mae West impersonator rather than the star herself. John F. Barber, producer of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver, notes that unease over 1930s radio censorship limited West’s opportunities on the air, making her surviving broadcasts especially significant.

Throughout her career, West defied double standards and claimed ownership of her sexuality—an audacious stance that unsettled critics but resonated with audiences. Her influence can be seen in generations of performers who embraced assertive, self-defined sensuality, including Jean Harlow, Cher, Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter.

When her film career waned, West continued performing on stage in Las Vegas and the United Kingdom, appeared on radio and television programs, recorded rock and roll albums, and remained a formidable cultural presence well into the later decades of her life.

“This is an episode about influence as much as performance,” said Barber. “Mae West understood the power of persona and language. Even when denied access to certain platforms, she found ways to command attention and assert her voice. Her legacy continues to shape conversations about gender, celebrity and creative freedom.”

Listeners are invited to tune in to “Mae West Jewel Robbery” on March 16 and rediscover one of the most provocative and enduring figures in American entertainment history.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Created in 2013 by Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences.

New episodes premiere on the third Monday of each month. Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, and KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm, which also features Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA, offering additional sound-based storytelling between monthly episodes.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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For media planning purposes

Vancouver, WA – On Monday, March 9, Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle will deliver the annual State of the City address.

The first portion of the address will highlight progress made in 2025 on key City priorities and community concerns. The second half will focus on arts, culture, and heritage in Vancouver and will include the launch of Inspire Vancouver, the City’s new grant program funded by the Arts, Culture, and Heritage Tax adopted as part of the 2025–26 Biennium Budget. The event will also feature performances representing Vancouver’s diverse arts community, including:

• Lion Dance by the Vietnamese Community of Clark County
• Original poem written and recited by Susan Dingle, Poet Laureate of Clark County
• Vancouver Ballet Folklorico
• Video produced by Evergreen Public Schools

Venue capacity is limited. Members of the media are asked to RSVP to Laura Shepard for planning purposes and to allow us to help you with interviews, camera placement, or other needs.

Date: Monday, March 9. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the program starts at 6 p.m.

Location: Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. On-site parking is available; overflow parking is available across the street from the venue at Clark Public Utilities, 1200 Fort Vancouver Way.

How to watch if you can’t attend: The State of the City address will be live-streamed and available for on-demand viewing on Clark/Vancouver Television (CVTV) channel 23 and HD 323 and the City’s Facebook page.

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Salem, Ore. — In another step forward for Salem’s Safer Streets program, the City installed speed cushions and stop signs to improve safety for residents as they walk, bike or drive along city streets.

Speed Cushions: Safe for Residents and First Responders

Speed cushions are a speed bump with openings for emergency vehicles. The cushions encourage residents and visitors to drive at or below posted speed limits. For emergency vehicles, the openings in speed cushions help maintain speeds needed when transporting patients or responding to emergencies.

The three speed cushions added to High Street SE between Trade Street SE and Mission Street SE were chosen as part of the City’s Safer Streets Program, where residents had requested traffic-calming measures. The City collected speed and volume data and scored this request against other requests received at that time.

Stop Signs Add Clarity to Traffic Flow

To improve safety, 38 new stop signs were added to the Northstar Communities development located north of Kale Road NE. These signs reduce confusion and potential conflicts at intersections.

These projects were funded through the Neighborhood Solutions Program. This program was initially launched with one-time COVID-related funds allocated to transportation safety. Future funding for the program will come from the City’s transportation budget.

Neighborhood traffic-calming projects like these are a City priority outlined in the Neighborhood Traffic Management Plan.

Safety Decisions are Guided by Residents

To help inform future safety decisions, the City created an online portal where residents can request traffic calming for their neighborhood streets, stop signs, and safer pedestrian crossings. Learn more at cityofsalem.net/safer-streets.

When selecting projects, we look at things like traffic, speed and how close the area is to schools, parks and transit. We also think about whether the area is in a neighborhood that hasn’t always had the same access to resources.

So far, the City has received over 750 requests for improved pedestrian crossings at 333 specific locations. Staff received almost 600 requests for traffic calming at 191 unique locations and more than 200 requests for new stop signs in neighborhoods.

Safety Programs Will Guide Future Efforts

To further enhance resident safety, the City is pursuing two additional programs, Vision Zero Transportation Safety Action Plan and 20 is Plenty, with federal grants through the Safe Streets and Roads for All.

For the Vision Zero Transportation Safety Action Plan, residents and community partners will be invited to prioritize actions to improve safety for all users, with an emphasis on eliminating serious injuries and deaths as a result of crashes. Crash data and other conditions that contribute to crashes.

The 20 is Plenty program will reduce speed limits on all local residential streets in Salem from 25 mph to 20 mph. The goal of this program is to improve safety by reducing speeds in neighborhoods where many people walk and bicycle.

To make this change, the City will be installing many new and additional speed limit signs. Installation is expected to start in late 2026 and take about a year to install almost 3,000 new signs.

Learn more at cityofsalem.net /safer-streets.

It's time to enroll next year’s kindergartners! Online enrollment is available for children who will attend Battle Ground Public Schools next year. Any child who will be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2026, is eligible to enter kindergarten in the fall. 

Parents/guardians will need proof of their child's birth date (such as a birth certificate) and a signed and completed Washington state certificate of immunization status or certificate of exemption. Please note that the state of Washington requires that immunization records be medically verified. 

Families can find out which school their child will attend by using the Clark County Property Information Center or by calling the district boundaries office at 360-885-6577.
 

Parents/guardians are encouraged to enroll their child as soon as possible to allow their child to participate in key events leading up to the start of kindergarten, including kindergarten orientation.

Alternative kindergarten options

Battle Ground Public Schools’ K-12 alternative learning experiences also offer early learning opportunities: 

• Battle Ground Virtual Academy is an online learning option that uses a web-based curriculum with interactive activities, videos and workbooks. All curriculum is provided and lessons are delivered online. Students receive 30 hours of learning activities per week, as well as one classroom experience per week, either in person or virtually.
• River HomeLink also offers a variety of kindergarten options to meet the needs of students and families. These options include both at-school learning and home-based instruction.

Kindergarten orientations

Enrolled students and their families will be invited to attend a kindergarten orientation in May where they can get to know their school and learn more about the kindergarten program. 

2026-27 school calendar and start of school

School will begin on Sept. 1, 2026; however, kindergartners will have a staggered start. This allows small groups of students to get acclimated to the school environment on the first couple of days of school before beginning to attend school full time. Parents will receive a letter before the start of school about their child's start date.

Before and after-school care

The district has partnered with Right At School to provide before- and after-school care at its primary schools from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day that school is in session.

Transitional Kindergarten

Battle Ground Public Schools also offers Transitional Kindergarten for children who will be 4 years old on Sept. 1. Visit our Transitional Kindergarten webpage to learn more about the program and fill out an interest form. Families will be notified in late May regarding their eligibility status.

Preschool options

Battle Ground Public Schools also offers preschool options for early learners. Prairie High School, Battle Ground High School and the BGPS Community Education Department offer tuition-based preschool programs for ages 3-5. Battle Ground Public Schools also offers early intervention programs and services for children ages 3-5 who are identified for special education services. Learn more and compare options.

UPDATE 3/3/26: Additional charges have been filed against Jacob Hankins, the driver who recently crashed a truck into a Tigard home.

In the crash debris at the scene, officers found a handgun and a rifle that were later confirmed to be stolen from Columbia County. Hankins is a convicted felon and is not allowed to possess guns.

On Friday, February 27, 2026, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted Hankins on nine criminal charges, including:

• Two counts of felon in possession of a firearm
• Reckless driving
• Five counts of recklessly endangering another person (for the five family members who were in the home at the time of the crash)
• Criminal mischief in the second degree

Hankins is also being held on a parole violation. He remains in custody at the Washington County Jail.

(ORIGINAL 2/13/26): The driver of a truck was arrested after he crashed into a house in the middle of the night. Fortunately, the family inside was not hurt.

It happened just before 3:00 AM in the 13000 block of SW Larkwood Place. Witnesses reported the driver was driving recklessly and speeding before the crash. Officers believe he was heading westbound on SW Scholls Ferry Road, hit a dirt mound on the side of the road and launched roughly 100 feet into the air and over a 3-foot brick wall before crashing into the side of the house.

When officers arrived, the driver was initially unconscious, and both he and a passenger were trapped inside the truck. Firefighters with Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue had to extricate them both, and they were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Thankfully, the family in the home was not hurt, but there is significant damage to their house.

The driver has been identified as Jacob Hankins, age 33. He was charged with reckless driving and recklessly endangering.

We’re thankful no one was seriously hurt. We appreciate the help from neighboring agencies in responding to this crash, including TVF&R, Beaverton Police, King City Police and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

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(March 3, 2026 – Portland, OR) — Meals on Wheels People (MOWP) announced today that its Medically Tailored Meals (MTM) program has earned accreditation from the Food Is Medicine Coalition (FIMC), marking a significant milestone in the organization’s delivery of a high-quality medically tailored meal intervention for individuals living with severe, chronic, or complex illness.
 

The Medically Tailored Meal (MTM) intervention is the comprehensive process of delivering meals to individuals living with severe, complex, or chronic condition(s) using therapeutic, evidence-based dietary specifications for condition(s), based on an assessment of the individual’s nutrition needs by a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), and are intended to improve health outcomes, reduce avoidable emergency department visits and hospitalizations, and lower overall health care costs.

FIMC Accreditation ensures fidelity to the proven medically tailored meal intervention and standardizes an ethic of care for organizations providing these life-sustaining services. Accreditation provides verified credibility for an organization’s operations and signals a level of service that can be trusted by clients, health care partners, and communities. The organization is the 14th agency to achieve this accreditation nationwide.

This accreditation applies specifically to Meals on Wheels People’s MTM program, which partners with health systems to support patients of all ages who are medically vulnerable and experiencing food insecurity, and remains separate from the organization’s older adult nutrition program, which remains central to Meals on Wheels People’s mission.

“Earning FIMC Accreditation affirms the care, expertise, and accountability behind our Medically Tailored Meals program,” said Suzanne Washington, CEO of Meals on Wheels People. “It reflects our commitment to delivering nutrition interventions that people with complex medical needs can rely on as they heal and manage chronic illness — often during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.”

Meals on Wheels People launched its MTM program in 2021 after completing the Food Is Medicine Coalition Accelerator Program as part of its first cohort. While providing nutritious meals for older adults remains the organization’s core mission, the MTM program extends that expertise to individuals whose medical lives require more intensive, clinically informed nutrition support.

The program has grown rapidly in response to increasing demand from health care partners. In fiscal year 2025, Meals on Wheels People partnered with 13 health care organizations to deliver 104,580 medically tailored meals to more than 900 individuals, representing a nearly 60% increase over the prior year.

“We congratulate Meals on Wheels People on this achievement,” said Alissa Wassung, Executive Director of the Food Is Medicine Coalition. “Their Accreditation demonstrates leadership and commitment to advancing the food is medicine movement and scaling access to lifesaving nutrition interventions for those who need them most.”

To better meet the needs of patients across the Pacific Northwest, Meals on Wheels People expanded its MTM program beyond its traditional service area. This includes a frozen meal shipping model to support patients living in rural communities who may otherwise lack access to nutrition that supports recovery and long-term health.

For interviews with Meals on Wheels People leadership and health care partners for patient stories, program outcomes, or details about the real-world impact of MOWP’s MTM program, please contact Kelsey Allen at 503-953-8152 or kelsey.allen@mowp.org.
 

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About Meals on Wheels People

Meals on Wheels People has been changing lives, one meal at a time, since 1970. We provide meals and human connection to thousands of older adults and families in the greater Portland metro and Vancouver areas. Our services alleviate hunger and social isolation and empower older adults to live independently with dignity in their own homes. For more information, visit mowp.org.

About the Food Is Medicine Coalition

The Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) is a national coalition of nonprofit organizations that provide medically tailored meals (MTMs) and groceries (MTGs), medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling and education to people in communities across the country living with severe and chronic illnesses. We advance access to these life-saving interventions through service, policy change, research and evaluation, and best practices. FIMC agencies created the medically tailored meal model and maintain the nutrition standards for the intervention. FIMC offers a community of learning for existing practitioners, equips new organizations to launch medically tailored meal programs, and accredits agencies against our fieldwide standard for MTM. For more information, visit fimcoalition.org.

Salem, Ore. – Oregon Lottery is focusing on collaboration and enhanced community outreach to increase awareness of problem gambling in March – also known as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). By participating in this annual grassroots campaign, Oregon Lottery works with local and national partners to promote available prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

This year's theme, "Caring Communities, Stronger Futures," emphasizes a collective responsibility for preventing gambling-related harm and a community-driven approach to awareness and support.

“We really connected to this year's theme,” said Stacy Shaw, who leads Oregon Lottery's Safer Play Program and is on the board of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling (OCPG). "We see our biggest impacts when we collaborate broadly to reach our players and develop resources and tools for Oregonians impacted by gambling issues.”

The Oregon Gambling Research Center, a division of the OCPG, recently completed a research study that highlighted the important role communities play in supporting Oregonians.

“Problem Gambling Awareness Month reminds us that gambling-related harm affects individuals, families, and communities, and that prevention and support are critical to recovery and healing,” said Glenn Yamagata, executive director of OCPG. "Our research shows the importance of strengthening these community pathways to reduce harm and create meaningful, lasting change.”

Oregonians can access online tools and connect with free, professional counseling year-round by going to the OPGR website. The website provides a wide variety of resources designed to help people wherever they are on their help seeking journey. This includes free access to EVIVE - a first of its kind digital health app, offering solutions for quitting, moderating, or simply playing safer. New this year to anyone affected by gambling is GamFin, a free financial counseling and online community that offers support.

Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery revenue has funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $155 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

About the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling

The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is the state affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its purpose is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling-related harm. Board members include individuals from the gaming industry, the treatment and prevention field, the recovery community, and state and county administrators.

About Oregon Lottery

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery or to read the Responsible Gaming Impacts Report, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Youth Commission is seeking nominations from community members for the 2026 Youth Achievement Awards. Every year, the Youth Commission recognizes up to 300 local youth who have demonstrated personal growth and community contribution. Youth nominees are recognized in one of 13 categories of achievement: arts, career development, citizenship, courage, diversifier, education, empathy, environmental stewardship, family life, inspiration, leadership, personal achievement, and sportsmanship.

Recognition is a powerful way to help young people feel valued and connected to their community. Youth development research demonstrates that having opportunities for positive involvement in the community, and being recognized for that involvement, helps young people be healthy, happy, and successful.

Nomination forms are available online at https://www.clark.wa.gov/community-services/youth-achievement. Nomination forms are due by 5 pm on Friday, March 13, 2026. Honorees will be sent a certificate, commemorative pin, and video message from the Clark County Youth Commission by late May.

The Clark County Youth Commission is a youth-driven advisory board and leadership development program for Clark County, and is comprised of 30 diverse youth, ages 11-19. Members provide a youth-oriented point of view to the work of the Clark County Council, county departments and community organizations.

For more information about the Clark County Youth Achievement Awards or the Clark County Youth Commission, please contact Elizabeth Houston-Hill, program coordinator, at 564.397.5133 or eth.hill@clark.wa.gov">elizabeth.hill@clark.wa.gov.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark College invites the media and members of the community to attend its Annual State of the College Address on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The event will be held in Gaiser Hall on the college’s main campus at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, Washington.

The State of the College is an opportunity to share the progress, challenges, and the vision guiding the college forward. College leadership will provide an overview of the institution’s current priorities, student success initiatives, financial outlook, and strategic direction. The address will highlight the college’s impact on students, the regional workforce, and the broader Southwest Washington community.

Members of the media planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP at k@clark.edu">commark@clark.edu. Requests for camera placement, interviews, and press tours may be accommodated, where possible.

General attendance: Please RSVP to mgolder@clark.edu for planning & logistics purposes.

State of the College Address event details:

When:    Thursday, March 12, 2026

1 – 2 pm: State of the College Address

2 – 3 pm: Refreshments by Clark’s McClaskey Culinary Institute

Where: Gaiser Hall, Clark College Main Campus

1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, Washington

Speakers:

• Dr. Karin Edwards, President, Clark College
• Alijah Machida, President, Associated Students of Clark College (ASCC)
• Lindsey Quiroz, PTK Chapter President and student speaker (PTK) 

Accommodations: If you need accommodation due to a disability to participate in this event, please contact Office of People and Culture, Melody Williams at MWilliams@clark.edu or (360) 992-2432. Please make requests as early as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.

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

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education, serving almost 10,000 students per term. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. 

Clark College offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 47% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

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

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Lebanon, Oregon

Lebanon Firefighters were dispatched to 35000 block of Rock Hill Drive for a reported structure fire. The call came in just after 0730 am on March 2, 2026, while crews were responding they were given information that everyone was evacuated, and the house was filling with smoke. The on-duty Battalion Chief arrived and found the two-story house had light smoke coming from the front door. The first due engine was arriving and given orders to pull a line and make entry. Upon their entry, the fire attack crew did a quick primary search as they looked for the seat of the fire. The crew located the fire in the kitchen area and with help from a second engine and fire/medic unit, opened the wall and later the kitchen floor extinguishing the fire. While crews worked on extinguishment, a crew from another fire/medic unit entered and did an extensive search of both the first and second floor confirming nobody was inside. No injuries were reported to either property owners or firefighters. The house at the time was being used as storage area for the main residence. Lebanon’s Fire Investigation Team determined the fire likely started from an overheated electrical RV plug on the outside of the structure.

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents of the importance of working smoke alarms. For assistance with smoke alarms in your home, contact our Fire & Life Safety Division at (541) 451-1901.

Bill to hold federal immigration agents accountable in hospitals has passed the House and Senate; Setting the stage to become law

(SALEM, Ore.) – The Oregon House of Representatives voted to pass the Healthcare Without Fear Act, Senate Bill 1570 B, March 2. The Healthcare Without Fear Act helps ensure federal immigration agents are held accountable to the same standards as state and local law enforcement inside hospitals; protects patients’ private health information; and ensures every Oregonian can access healthcare without fearing for their health and safety. 

“Hospitals are places of healing, safety and trust. The Healthcare Without Fear Act ensures everyone has access to healthcare free from fear, intimidation or interference," said ONA President Tamie Cline, RN. “Oregonians won’t allow our healthcare to be dictated by a man with a gun. Mothers and fathers should be able to take their children to the emergency room without fearing for their safety. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, humanity and compassion.”  

Today’s House vote clears the way for a concurrence vote in the Senate before being sent to the governor to be signed into law. The Senate passed a previous version of the bill Feb. 24. 

“As a first responder, I know that hospitals and emergency rooms are carefully coordinated environments where roles are clear, every second matters, and trust is essential. When immigration enforcement disrupts that environment, people get hurt,” said Representative Dacia Grayber, House District 28. “This bill protects patient privacy and limits access to sensitive areas, ensuring that patient care is never compromised by enforcement activity.” 

The Healthcare Without Fear Act requires hospitals to create policies around all law enforcement interactions; designate a point person to interface with law enforcement and reduce burdens on frontline caregivers; and clearly designate public and private spaces within hospitals. It protects patients’ privacy by classifying immigration status and place of birth as protected health information and empowers healthcare providers to share information about immigration rights or legal services with patients and their families.

Senate Bill 1570 B is part of a national effort to hold federal government agencies accountable and protect vulnerable patients. California passed a similar bill (California Senate Bill 81) in 2025.

Multiple states are working to restore safety measures for patients and community members after the Trump administration eliminated long-standing “sensitive location” protections in 2025. The protections restricted immigration enforcement at hospitals, clinics, schools, places of worship and other areas. 

Since the change, federal immigration agents in Oregon shot two people in a hospital parking lot; arrested an entire family trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER; and have reportedly entered hospital restricted areas, exposed patients’ private health information, and interfered with patients’ care.

More information on the Healthcare Without Fear Act can be found at OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear. 

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The Oregon State Marine Board is asking for public comments on a citizen petition received on February 12, 2026. The petitioners are asking the Marine Board to amend OAR 250-020-0410 (10) to establish a slow no-wake zone for the entire channel for all vessels and watercraft marked from the south channel adjacent to McGuire Island between the east end of Big Eddy Marina and the west end of McGuire Point Marina.

The comment period closes on April 1, 2026, at 11:59 pm. The Board will consider the petition during its April 23, 2026, board meeting, being held in Tillamook. If the Board votes to accept the petition and initiate rulemaking, there will be additional opportunities for public comment and engagement prior to adoption of new rule language.

Written comments can be submitted by email to .cooper@boat.oregon.gov">jennifer.cooper@boat.oregon.gov or by U.S. mail to: Jennifer Cooper, Administrative Rules Coordinator, Oregon State Marine Board, 435 Commercial Street NE, Salem, OR 97301.

To view the petition, visit the Marine Board’s Rulemaking and Public Notices page.

-End-

Oregon is one of the top commercial plant-growing states in the country, and a leader in most types of woody plants. That’s because the state offers an ideal growing environment. Adequate rainfall, a long growing season, and a community of expert growers mean that plants, trees, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses and annuals can flourish at plant nurseries, as well as in yards and commercial installations.

The Oregon Association of Nurseries prints 35,000 copies of the map. Meanwhile, the PlantSomethingOregon.comwebsite offers a FREE newsletter, blog posts, a searchable directory of the same nurseries and much more. To receive the free newsletter, published 18 times a year, sign up on the site.

Interested groups such as garden clubs can order the maps in bulk for distribution at meetings and events. Just go to PlantSomethingOregon.com/OrderMaps/ and use the form.

The Oregon Association of Nurseries, based in Wilsonville, represents more than 700 wholesale growers, retailers, landscapers and suppliers. Oregon’s ornamental horticulture industry is the state’s largest agricultural commodity, with annual sales of $1.3 billion in 2024. It is also a traded sector, with about 74% of the nursery plants grown in Oregon being shipped out of state. For information, visit OAN.org or call 503-682-5089.

Vancouver, WA – YWCA Clark County is proud to announce that they are sending a delegate to the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW). As part of the YWCA network, YWCA Clark County is honored to participate in this global gathering focused on advancing gender equity and supporting women and girls worldwide.

This year, YWCA Clark County will be represented by Stacy Flores, who is identified as one of YWCA USA’s Emerging Leaders. Flores will join delegates from across the country in New York City from March 9–13, 2026. Ten delegates were selected from across YWCA’s network of 193 Local Associations to represent YWCA USA’s mission and advocacy priorities. Reflecting the powerful diversity of our associations and their staff, delegates will participate in programming and events hosted by UN Women.

“Stacy represents the very heart of our mission. She is a survivor who chose courage, rebuilt her life with determination and grit, and now uses her voice to advocate for others walking that same path. As a mother and a committed champion for racial and gender equity, she has transformed lived experience into leadership. Her selection as an Emerging Leader affirms what we see every day: when women have access to safety, support, and opportunity, they do not just recover, they rise and help reshape the systems around them. We are incredibly proud to have her represent YWCA Clark County and YWCA USA on the global stage at the United Nations.” — Brittini Lasseigne, CEO, YWCA Clark County

The full list of YWCA’s delegation members is below. 

Network Leadership Delegates
Margaret Gritten, YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish 
Sally Winn, YWCA Spokane 

Emerging Leaders - Delegates Under the Age of 30
Myxee Thao, YWCA Madison 
Stacy Flores, YWCA Clark County 
Victoria Mendoza, YWCA Berkeley/ Oakland 

YWCA USA Board & Executive Leadership
Margaret Mitchell, CEO  
Daryl Thomann, COO  
Dr. Dionne Blue, CIO   
Joanne Tabellija-Murphy , Board & Global Relations Committee Member 
Jhaniqua Palmer, YWCA USA

For more information about the UN70 click here.

About UNCSW:
The Commission on the Status of Women is an official commission of the United Nations which focuses on advancing the rights and empowerment of women and global gender equality. 

During its annual two-week session, representatives of UN Member States, civil society organizations and UN entities gather at UN headquarters in New York to discuss progress and commit to further action. The outcomes and recommendations of each session are forwarded to the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Commission’s parent body, for follow-up.

About  YWCA Clark County:

Founded in 1916, YWCA Clark County is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.  YWCA Clark County began as a lunch counter serving women in the workforce and has evolved from renting a first apartment to the only emergency shelter system.  Today, the organization offers the SafeChoice Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Programs, Y’s Care Therapeutic Preschool and Prevention programming in local high school and middles schools. For more information about YWCA Clark County, please visit: www.ywcaclarkcounty.org
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Jason Holland and Jenny Stadler to lead commission following years of dedicated service from predecessors

SALEM, Oregon — The Oregon Arts Commission is pleased to announce the election of Jason Holland as the new Commission Chair and Jenny Stadler as Vice Chair. The leadership transition, finalized during the Commission’s December 2025 meeting, officially takes effect this month.

As the Commission enters this new chapter, it extends its deepest gratitude to outgoing Chair Subashini Ganesan-Forbes and Vice Chair David Harrelson. Their outstanding leadership over the past two years has been instrumental in advancing the Commission’s mission to support and elevate the arts across the state. Ganesan-Forbes will soon roll off the board while Harrelson will continue to serve as a commissioner.

Jason Holland brings two decades of arts nonprofit experience to his role as Chair. He currently serves as the executive director of the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, where he oversees the Newport Performing Arts and Visual Arts Centers. With a background in instrumental music, vocal performance and theater direction, Holland’s leadership is informed by both administrative expertise and artistic practice. He also serves on several boards, including the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County. His term on the Commission expires March 4, 2028.

Jenny Stadler, Vice Chair, transitioned from a career in academia and psychology to the arts sector in 2013, driven by a lifelong passion for choral music and theater. Most recently, she served as the executive director of PHAME Academy (2017-2024), where she championed equitable arts access for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A consultant and active member of the Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland, Stadler brings a unique perspective on inclusivity and long-range planning to the Vice Chair position. Her term expires June 30, 2028.

“The arts are the heartbeat of Oregon’s communities,” Holland said. “I am honored to serve alongside Jenny and our fellow Commissioners as we continue to expand access to creative expression and support the vital work of artists and organizations across our state.”

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. The Arts Commission is part of Business Oregon in recognition of the vital role the arts play in supporting the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.organd follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

VANCOUVER, WA—March 2, 2026—Katherine “Katie” Henry, JD, begins her role as chief executive officer (CEO) of Vancouver Clinic today. Henry joins the clinic as Southwest Washington’s rapid growth increases demand for accessible, excellent patient care. Vancouver Clinic is the largest independent, physician-owned medical practice in the Pacific Northwest and one of the region’s largest employers.

Henry succeeds Mark Mantei, who retired at the end of 2025 after a decade of service.

“Our community is growing quickly, and access to high-quality care has never been more important,” said Dr. Keren Rosenblum, Vancouver Clinic president and board chair. “Katie’s deep operational experience, thoughtful leadership, and strong respect for physician-led medicine make her the right leader to build on Vancouver Clinic’s legacy of independent, patient-first care.”

Henry joins Vancouver Clinic from Austin Regional Clinic, where she served for seven years as chief administrative officer of one of the nation’s largest physician-owned multispecialty practices. During her tenure, the organization strengthened care delivery, expanded access through significant clinic growth, and earned national recognition for quality and workplace culture.

“I’m honored to join Vancouver Clinic and to be part of such a strong and caring community,” Henry said. “My first priority is to listen to our patients, clinicians, staff and community and learn what matters most to them. I’m excited to build on that insight as we continue expanding access to high-quality care.”

Henry holds a juris doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law. She currently serves on the Executive Committee of the American Medical Group Association.

About Vancouver Clinic

Vancouver Clinic is the largest independent, physician-owned multispecialty medical practice in the Pacific Northwest. With 580 clinicians, 2,000 employees, and more than 20 locations, Vancouver Clinic is also one of the largest employers in the region. Founded 90 years ago, Vancouver Clinic offers comprehensive primary, specialty, and surgical care. For more information, visit tvc.org.

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The February Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Work Session will be held March 3, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting remotely or in person, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on March 3, 2026

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

About TVWD 

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

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

A majority of registered nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart RiverBend report they have no confidence in PeaceHealth executives

(SPRINGFIELD, Ore.) – In an effort to improve community health and hold PeaceHealth executives accountable, this week frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart RiverBend held a vote of no confidence in PeaceHealth’s chief hospital executive Jim McGovern, MD, and chief medical officer Kim Ruscher, MD. 

Ninety-eight percent of nurses who voted say they have no confidence in PeaceHealth executives’ ability to meet its mission to provide outstanding patient care and promote our community’s health. 

Oregon Nurses Association members held the vote between Feb. 23 – March 1. ONA represents more than 1,600 frontline registered nurses working at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart RiverBend. A majority of nurses participated in the vote. 

“This vote sends a clear message: our community deserves better healthcare,” said Chris Rompala, RN, ONA executive chair and nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart RiverBend. “Frontline nurses are frustrated and alarmed by PeaceHealth’s repeated cuts, closures, and outsourcing attempts. PeaceHealth executives are leading our community’s care in the wrong direction. Nurses are standing together to demand accountability and a renewed commitment to safe, local, patient-centered healthcare.”

Medical staff at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart RiverBend recently held their own vote of no confidence at PeaceHealth. More than 93% voted they had “no confidence” in PeaceHealth executives McGovern and Ruscher. In a second medical staff vote, 98% voted to reverse PeaceHealth’s decision to outsource local emergency medical care and asked to restore Eugene Emergency Physicians as PeaceHealth’s emergency room providers. 

ONA nurses strongly support local ER doctors and have repeatedly asked PeaceHealth executives to reverse their decision to outsource care and to renew the contract with Eugene Emergency Physicians.

The latest no confidence vote follows years of profit-centered decisions by PeaceHealth executives, including closing Eugene’s only hospital—leaving nearly 200,000 residents in Oregon’s third-largest city without a hospital or emergency room—and shuttering local healthcare options including a sleep clinic and pediatric cardiology service in Springfield; medical and optometry clinics in Eugene; and home infusion services. PeaceHealth executives have also repeatedly led mass layoffs of caregivers and support staff including hospice nurses; flaunted Oregon’s safe nurse staffing law; and are attempting to outsource local emergency doctors. 

Nurses’ no confidence vote demonstrates how these decisions have undermined the mission and values PeaceHealth claims to uphold and eroded trust between executives, caregivers and our local community. 

“PeaceHealth executives’ pattern of closures, layoffs and attempted outsourcing isn’t sustainable or acceptable,” said Rob Sabin, RN, ONA executive team member and ER nurse at PeaceHealth RiverBend. “Executives must be accountable to the people they serve. We need leaders who value transparency and cooperation and who are committed to working with frontline healthcare professionals and community leaders to put patients first.” 

• Learn more about PeaceHealth executives’ history of poor decisions.

(Salem, OR) Recent federal changes mean more people in Oregon s who receive SNAP food benefits must now show they are working, looking for work or participating in training to continue receiving aid. WorkSource Oregon centers offer free employment and training services to help people meet the requirement and stay eligible.

The Oregon Department of Human Services and the Oregon Employment Department, both WorkSource Oregon partners, are encouraging people who receive SNAP food benefits to take advantage of free job search and training at one of the 37 centers across the state.

Recent federal changes mean some adults who receive SNAP must now meet work requirements to keep getting benefits for longer than three months. These changes apply to more people than in the past, including some adults up to age 64 and some households with older children.

To help people meet these requirements, the state is connecting SNAP participants with free employment and training services that can build skills, support job searches and create new career opportunities. Many people may already meet the requirement through work, volunteering or other activities they are doing now.

“Through case management and employment and training services, we work with each person to create a plan based on their interests, strengths, and abilities. This helps them meet requirements while moving toward a career path that fits their goals,” said Jessica Amya Hoffman, SNAP Director at the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Staff from both agencies are available to help participants understand their options and stay eligible for benefits while working toward employment goals. Services include:

• Personalized support to develop a case plan that identifies all available options for meeting work requirements 
• Job search assistance includes identifying openings and submitting applications
• Resume development and interview preparation through one-on-one coaching and workshops
• Job readiness workshops focused on workplace expectations and professional skills
• Connections to education and training programs such as GED completion, short-term training and industry recognized certifications
• Help with items needed, such as transportation assistance to be successful in the program

“WorkSource Oregon staff are ready to help SNAP participants look for meaningful work, meet SNAP requirements, and stay eligible for the benefits they rely on while moving toward their professional goals,” said OED’s Workforce Operations Director, Jim Pfarrer. “Just like any job seeker that comes to one of our centers, they can get career coaching and help with resume writing, practice interviewing, and job search strategies—all at no additional cost.”

Some areas of Oregon are not required to meet these work rules because they do not have a nearby WorkSource Oregon center. This includes people living in Crook, Gilliam, Jefferson, Lake, Morrow, Sherman and Wheeler counties.

Anyone who has questions or thinks these changes may apply to them is encouraged to contact ODHS. Staff can help determine whether a person already meets the requirement or qualifies for an exemption.

For full details about ABAWD work rules, exemptions and how to report activities, visit:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo

ABAWD Team:

• Call: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: AWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov">SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: benefits.oregon.gov
• Call: 1-800-699-9075

• ODHS local office: http://odhsoffices.oregon.gov/

For more information about WorkSource Oregon:

• Online: WorkSourceOregon.org
• Phone and address: WorkSource Oregon Center Contact List

About WorkSource Oregon

The Oregon Employment Department and the Oregon Department of Human Services are partners in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit  worksourceoregon.org  for more information. 

BEND, OR — 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Instead of focusing on distant events, the Museum asked what the legacy of independence meant for the High Desert. Beginning this spring, High Desert Museum invites the public to join 250 in the West, a new yearlong program exploring how some of America’s founding themes—public lands, citizenship, and identity—intersect with regional history and figure largely in our lives today. 

Through little-known stories of the region told by renowned scholars and historians, the Museum encourages dialogue about the challenges and opportunities of today while providing civic engagement and community conversation.  

“Anniversaries invite us to look both backward and forward, and to pause and reconsider the stories we think we know,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “In this series, our speakers illuminate little-known aspects of our region’s history and the broader West. By grounding these conversations in history, we hope to create space for thoughtful engagement and meaningful dialogue at a time when many people are seeking ways to connect.” 

250 in the West kicks off in March with three unique events available only at the Museum. Each event and speaker will illuminate how Western thinkers influenced the creation of the nation’s cultural institutions, trace the origins of public lands and the region’s identity, and how the meaning of citizenship has been challenged and redefined—from the nation’s founding to the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. 

On Thursday, March 12, Flannery Burke, Ph.D., historian and author of Back East, flips the traditional regional narrative by centering the West in the American story. Burke, a professor at Saint Louis University, will explore how Western perspectives have influenced the cultural and intellectual development of the United States, including the formation of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the presentation begins at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $8, with a 20% discount for members. 

Then, on Wednesday, April 15, Leisl Carr Childers explains the history of public lands. Childers, an associate professor at Colorado State University, traces the origins of public lands from the American Revolution to the present, examining how debates over their use have shaped the West and continue to influence the region today. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the presentation begins at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $8, with a 20% discount for members.  

The final speaker of the spring series is Susan Kamei, renowned author and legal scholar, whose book, When Can We Go Back to America?, draws from her family’s experience among the more than 120,000 Japanese Americans incarcerated in the U.S. during World War II. The book grapples with contradictions between the ideas this country was founded on and the mass incarceration of Japanese Americans. On Thursday, April 30, Kamei will explore the constitutional, historical, and political ramifications for citizenship and what it means to be an American today. Doors open at 6:00 pm with a reception to follow, including a no-host bar and light appetizers. The presentation begins at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $12, with a 20% discount for members. 

250 in the West will continue in the fall with additional events and speakers to be announced, each with a goal of examining how deeply questions of land, culture, and citizenship are woven into the High Desert and American history. 

For more information and to purchase tickets for the 250 in the West series, visit highdesertmuseum.org/250-west. The programmatic series is made possible with support from the America 250 Oregon Commission. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:  

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.  

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SALEM, Oregon--The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting applications to fill two positions on the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee.

The 10-member committee allocates funding to public park and recreation projects throughout the state. OPRD is seeking two volunteers to fill the following roles:

• A member representing the Public at Large who represents a historically underrepresented community. Public at Large positions may be held by a recreation professional or a private citizen with an interest or background in outdoor recreation.
• A member representing cities with a population under 15,000. Candidates for the position representing cities must be employed by a city or be professionally associated with a city

The main function of the committee is to read, assess, and score approximately 30-40 grant applications submitted to the LGGP and attend a three-day grant application presentation meeting which will be held virtually via ZOOM. Committee members serve four-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term. If travel is involved, OPRD will reimburse all travel, meals and lodging expenses associated with committee meetings.

Interested applicants should submit a Committee Interest Form by April 3 if possible.

A list of existing LGGP Advisory Committee members and additional information about the LGGP program is included on the LGGP website: oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx.

LGGP Advisory Committee members represent the following categories:

• Counties east and west of the Cascade Range
• Cities under 15,000 people
• Cities over 15,000 people
• Park and recreation districts, metropolitan service districts, or port districts
• People with disabilities
• Three members of the public including at least one person who represents a historically underrepresented community

The Local Government Grant Program is funded by the Oregon Lottery and currently awards about $15 million annually to outdoor park and recreation projects throughout the state. Eligible applicants to the program are cities, counties, parks and recreation districts, port districts and metropolitan service districts.

OPRD is committed to ensuring that all committees represent the growing age, ethnic and gender diversity of the state. New committee members will be appointed by the OPRD Director.

For more information about the LGGP Advisory Committee or application process, contact Jennifer Dimsho, LGGP coordinator, at .dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov">jennifer.dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-951-1317.

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SALEM, Oregon—The 2026 Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) grant cycle is now open and accepting applications.

This year, approximately $15 million in funds are available in this competitive grant process. The purpose of the Program is to help local government agencies fund projects to acquire, develop and rehabilitate parks and public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Eligible applicants are cities, counties, metropolitan service districts, park and recreation districts and port districts.

Learn more about applying for the grants at a live online webinar on March 19 at 10 a.m. The webinar will help new and returning applicants navigate the application process and learn about the program. Register at:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lowEQ51DRgWqSwufPy7J4w

A recording of the workshop and presentation slides will be available after March 19 on the LGGP website: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/gra/pages/gra-lggp.aspx

The LGGP website also includes additional information about the LGGP, including past grant award recipients, the grant manual, application instructions, grant forms, and program schedule.

Program grants are split into large, small and planning categories. Grant application deadlines and maximum awards vary by grant type:

• Large Grant Deadline ($1,000,000 maximum award):     June 5
• Small Grant Deadline ($100,000 maximum award):         June 18
• Planning Grant Deadline ($50,000 maximum award):     June 18

Local governments can apply online at oprdgrants.org. Applicants will need to set up an account when applying for the first time.

This Oregon Lottery-funded grant program is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The program has awarded more than $100 million in reimbursement grant funds since 2000. OPRD’s budget does not include any general tax funds.

Questions can be directed to Jennifer Dimsho, LGGP coordinator, at .Dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov">Jennifer.Dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-951-1317

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PORTLAND, Ore. (March 2, 2026): Colon cancer diagnosis and deaths are on the rise among younger adults, and one in five people diagnosed are under age 55, making early detection critical. Recent high-profile cases in younger public figures, including James Van Der Beek, have brought renewed attention to the disease. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, with Dress Blue Day on March 5 encouraging people to wear blue to raise awareness. Dr. David Parsons, who has been a Colon and Rectal Surgeon with Kaiser Permanente Northwest for almost  encourage regular screenings to catch colon cancer early and save lives.

Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in people younger than 50, and the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. This growing trend of younger adults being diagnosed led the American Cancer Society in 2018 to lower colorectal screening guidelines to begin at age 45. Regular screening is one of the most powerful tools for detecting colorectal cancer early or even preventing it altogether.

"Colon cancer can happen to anyone at any age," said Dr. David Parsons, Colon and Rectal Surgeon with Kaiser Permanente Northwest. "There can be no symptoms with colorectal cancer, so it's not advisable to wait until symptoms like changes in stool, abdominal pain or bleeding present themselves. Early detection is important. Colon cancer is preventable and treatable with proper screenings, and the five-year survival rate is about 90% when it is detected early, before it has spread."

Colorectal cancer symptoms typically don't occur until the cancer is more advanced and more difficult to treat. That's why a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is an effective and convenient screening option that can be done in the privacy of your own home to help catch colon cancer early, when it is more treatable. It is recommended that you do the FIT test annually.

Interviews available: 

Dr. David Parsons, Colon and Rectal Surgeon with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews on Monday, March 2 from 10 a.m.-noon. en.a.vitt@kp.org" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: blue;" title="mailto:karen.a.vitt@kp.org">Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Parsons is prepared to discuss: 

Types of colorectal screening, including home tests 
Why screening is critical in preventing or catching it in the early stages  
Colorectal cancer risk factors and prevention 
Colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment

Colorectal Cancer Fast Facts  

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States, and in 2023, the American Cancer Society reported that 20% of colon cancer diagnoses were in patients under age 55, which is about double the rate in 1995.

The exact cause of why colorectal cancer is rising in young adults is unknown. Obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and a long-term diet that's high in red meats have all been associated with the disease.

The death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping for several decades. One explanation for this is that colorectal polyps are now being found more often by screening and removed before they can develop into cancers. Screening also results in many colorectal cancers being found earlier, when they are easier to treat. 

From 2011 to 2019, incidence rates dropped by about 1% each year. However, in people younger than 50, rates have been increasing by 1% to 2% a year since the mid-1990s. A younger generation of Americans is being diagnosed with advanced stages of colorectal, rectal, and colon cancer, according to a 2022 study published in the journal Cancer, Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention.  
 
The distribution of colorectal cancer is not even across U.S. subpopulations; there is a marked difference in colorectal cancer incidence, cancer stage, and cancer mortality by race and ethnicity. After Black Americans, Native Americans have the second highest colorectal cancer incidence rate at 39.3 per 100,000 people. Asian and Pacific Islanders have an incidence rate of 31.7 per 100,000 people and Hispanic people have an incidence rate of 33.5 per 100,000 people.

About Kaiser Permanente 

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 9 states a nd the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. 

At 4:54pm on Sunday March 1st, Forest Grove Firefighters were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 1600 block of A Street. Residents reported light smoke in the second floor of the house. When fire crews arrived, they found increased levels of black smoke from the upstairs portion of the house. Firefighters were able to quickly find the fire and extinguish it, preventing it from spreading to other rooms in the house. 

Three residents were in the home when the smoke was discovered, two of them suffered from smoke inhalation. They were assessed on scene by medical crews, but didn't require transport to a hospital. The three residents are receiving assistance from Red Cross on temporary housing as the house received water and smoke damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue wants to remind citizens to have a working smoke alarm in each bed room as well as outside sleeping areas on each floor.

Our crews received assistance on scene from Cornelius Fire Department, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Gaston Fire District, AMR, Forest Grove Police, Red Cross Cascades, Forest Grove Light & Power and NW Natural.

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As a follow-up to yesterday's media release regarding the rescue of “Sweetie,” the injured dog recovered from a water retention pond, the City of Happy Valley is pleased to share a positive update on her condition and next steps.

After being transported to VCA Emergency Veterinary Clinic for treatment, Sweetie was later evaluated by the compassionate team at VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists in Clackamas. We are happy to report that she received a clean bill of health. We extend our sincere appreciation to the veterinary professionals who provided such attentive and expert care.

Sweetie has continued to be surrounded by tremendous community support. She was treated to a spa day at EarthWise Pet in Happy Valley OR, where she was generously gifted a basket of food along with a brand-new pink collar and leash to take with her to her forever home. She also stopped by Valley Public House to say hello and enjoyed some relaxing time on the patio. We are grateful to these local businesses and community members for their kindness.

Sweetie is currently resting comfortably with the City’s Director of Public Safety before being transported to Clackamas County Dog Services for official check-in.

As previously reported, Sweetie does not have a license or microchip, and at this time no owner information has been identified. As a result, she will be placed for adoption through Clackamas County Dog Services and will soon be available to find her forever family.

Sweetie has been described as incredibly sweet, gentle, and loving. She will make a wonderful companion for a very lucky household.

Anyone interested in adopting Sweetie is encouraged to contact Clackamas County Dog Services at 503-655-8628 directly regarding her availability and the adoption process.

The City of Happy Valley remains proud of the coordinated rescue effort involving Community Service Officers, Happy Valley Police deputies, and Clackamas Fire personnel and equally proud of the continued community support shown to this resilient dog.

Additional updates will be shared as they become available.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – A 20-year-old woman is accused of driving while impaired and crashing into a Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputy’s patrol SUV.

The crash occurred during a DUII patrol mission conducted in honor of two MCSO reserve deputies who were killed in 1993 by an impaired driver.

At approximately 11:15 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, a vehicle hit the deputy’s patrol SUV at Northeast 162^nd Avenue and Northeast Fremont Street in Portland.

Fortunately, the crash did not injure the deputy or the passenger.

The crash happened several hours into a high‑visibility DUII patrol mission conducted in partnership with Oregon State Police, Gresham Police, and TriMet Transit Police.

On February 26, 1993, MCSO Reserve Sergeant Scott Collins and Reserve Deputy Mark Whitehead died in the line of duty while patrolling Interstate 84 near Fairview.

An impaired driver, Ervin Vandervoort, crossed the median at an estimated speed of more than 100 miles per hour and collided with the patrol car carrying the two reserve deputies. All three died.

As reserve members, Collins and Whitehead served alongside full-time MCSO deputies without pay, dedicating their time, professionalism, and personal sacrifice to protecting the community.

Reserve Sergeant Collins, 34, had served five years as a reserve deputy, and Deputy Whitehead, 26, had served for approximately 18 months.

OSP responded to the crash on Northeast Fremont Street as the primary investigative agency.

Troopers booked 20-year-old Luz Solimar Chavez-Castillo into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of driving under the influence of intoxicants, two counts of reckless endangerment, and one count of reckless driving.

Before the mission began, family members of Reserve Sergeant Collins and Deputy Whitehead met with law enforcement to share memories and express their appreciation. The families said the loss of their loved ones continues to have a profound impact, but that Saturday’s patrol mission ensures both deputies are honored and never forgotten.

MCSO acknowledges Oregon State Police, Gresham Police, and TriMet Transit Police Department for their assistance and partnership.

Official statistics from the operation are still being compiled.

Specific questions about the crash involving Chavez-Castillo should be referred to Oregon State Police.

MCSO is releasing several images from Saturday.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2026

Contact:
Steve Campbell
City of Happy Valley
971-563-4641

Joint Rescue Effort Safely Recovers Injured Dog from Water Retention Pond

Happy Valley, OR — On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the City of Happy Valley, in coordination with Happy Valley Police and Clackamas Fire District, successfully rescued an injured female dog from a heavily vegetated water retention pond and transported her to VCA Emergency Veterinary Hospital for treatment.

First responders affectionately named the dog “Sweetie,” a reflection of her gentle demeanor despite enduring difficult conditions.

Sweetie was located within an enclosed, approximately one-acre water retention area filled with dense blackberry bushes, cattails, mud, and waist-high water. Initial attempts to safely secure her were unsuccessful as the frightened dog evaded capture multiple times. Responders observed that she was injured, cold, and fatigued.

Due to the challenging terrain and water hazards, Clackamas Fire deployed a drone equipped with thermal imaging capability. The drone successfully located Sweetie standing in nearly two feet of water, concealed within thick vegetation. Fire crews from Station 6, along with a Battalion Chief, Community Service Officers, and deputies assigned to Happy Valley Police, coordinated efforts and safely secured the dog.

Sweetie was transported to VCA Emergency Veterinary Clinic, where she is currently receiving care. She is being treated for multiple superficial wounds and exposure. The attending veterinarian anticipates she will remain under observation and treatment, with a possible release within 24–48 hours.

The dog does not have a license or microchip, and ownership is unknown at this time. A full investigation into her wellbeing is underway. Upon recovery, she will be transported to Clackamas County Dog Services for evaluation and potential adoption placement.

Many community members have already expressed interest in this resilient and affectionate dog. If she is ultimately cleared for adoption, those interested are encouraged to contact Clackamas County Dog Services regarding the adoption process and availability.

Community members who may have information regarding Sweetie are encouraged to contact the City of Happy Valley at 503-783-3800.

The City extends its appreciation to the Community Service Officers, Happy Valley Police deputies, and Clackamas Fire personnel for their coordinated response, professionalism, and compassion throughout this rescue operation. We are proud to serve our community — including our four-legged friends. 

Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.

At 2:23 p.m. this afternoon, Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of NE 117th Avenue and NE 87th Street in Vancouver.

Upon arrival, crews found a truck versus SUV collision with one vehicle resting on its side and patients trapped inside. Firefighters quickly initiated extrication procedures, removing the roof of the vehicle using specialized hydraulic rescue tools while simultaneously providing patient care.

A total of three fire units responded with 10 firefighters on scene. AMR transported three patients to area hospitals. At this time, injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Vancouver Fire Department extends its appreciation to the Clark County Sheriff's Office for assisting with traffic control and swift response, Washington State Department of Transportation for dispatching additional resources, and AMR for providing patient transport. 

Vancouver Fire reminds everyone to always buckle up and drive safely.

Salem, OR – February 27, 2026 – On February 26, 2026, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Amy Queen sentenced Jonathon L. Jones (age 58) to 70 months in the Department of Corrections for Assault in the Second Degree.

On January 7, 2026, the Salem Police Department responded to a reported stabbing at the business complex located at 4500 Commercial Street Southeast. The victim, Victor Hernandez-Lopez, was transported to Salem Hospital for treatment of multiple stab wounds.  A witness at the scene identified Jones as the assailant.

Jones was known to live in a tent within the business complex near where the assault occurred.  At the time of the incident, the victim, a landscaper, was using a leaf-blower in the area. Jones claimed he believed the noise and activity were blowing his stuff around, which angered him.  He then stabbed Hernandez-Lopez.  The knife used in the assault was located among Jones’ belongings.  

Assault in the Second Degree under these circumstances is a Ballot Measure 11 offense, carrying a mandatory prison sentence.   There is no early release nor eligibility for alternative programming.

“Our office remains committed to protecting the safety of everyone who lives and works in Marion County,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “Violent acts like this have no place in our community. This sentence holds the offender accountable and helps to reinforce public safety for our residents and businesses in the area.”

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Meghan Kamps. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the detectives and officers of the Salem Police Department for their swift response and thorough investigation.

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

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

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JUDGE SENTENCES PROLIFIC BURGLAR, BIKE THIEF IN PORTLAND TO MORE THAN FOUR YEARS IN PRISON

February 27, 2026

Case: 25CR55217

Portland, OR- Christopher McGinnis pled guilty today to six counts of Burglary in the First Degree and two counts of Theft in the First Degree. 

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Ramras sentenced McGinnis to 50 months prison (four years and two months) along with three years of post prison supervision.

Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia - the head of the Multnomah County Burglary Task Force - prosecuted the case for the State. After the sentencing he said: “Portland is a world-class biking city and the Burglary Task Force intends to keep it that way.  People who break into buildings to steal bicycles will be prosecuted and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

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

THE FACTS: 

From June 2025 through September 2025, McGinnis used a crow bar to break into 3 separate apartment buildings, a combined total of 11 times. On each occasion, McGinnis broke into the building's bicycle storage room to steal bicycles. The buildings McGinnins broke into include The Frankie Apartments in SE Portland, The Cosmopolitan in NW Portland, and Memoir Buckman in SE Portland. 

The burglaries, thefts, and property damage ended with McGinnis’s arrest on September 19, 2025, following an extensive investigation by the Burglary Task Force.

                                               ###MCDA###

February 27, 2026

Case: 25CR55217

Portland, OR- Christopher McGinnis pled guilty today to six counts of Burglary in the First Degree and two counts of Theft in the First Degree. 

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Ramras sentenced McGinnis to 50 months prison (four years and two months) along with three years of post prison supervision.

Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia - the head of the Multnomah County Burglary Task Force - prosecuted the case for the State. After the sentencing he said: “Portland is a world-class biking city and the Burglary Task Force intends to keep it that way.  People who break into buildings to steal bicycles will be prosecuted and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

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

THE FACTS: 

From June 2005 through September 2025, McGinnis used a crow bar to break into 3 separate apartment buildings, a combined total of 11 times. On each occasion, McGinnis broke into the building's bicycle storage room to steal bicycles. The buildings McGinnins broke into include The Frankie Apartments in SE Portland, The Cosmopolitan in NW Portland, and Memoir Buckman in SE Portland. 

The burglaries, thefts, and property damage ended with McGinnis’s arrest on September 19, 2025, following an extensive investigation by the Burglary Task Force.

                                               ###MCDA###

Registration and applications open March 2 for early learning programs in Kelso.

PRESCHOOL PUPS

Preschool Pups is a FREE, inclusive preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds who would benefit from a half-day, high-quality program. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators. This program is housed at Catlin site (404 Long Ave, Kelso) and open to all Kelso families.

• Open to three- and four-year-olds, must turn three prior to enrolling
• Students are enrolled as they apply until the program is at capacity
• Morning and afternoon sessions, four half-days a week
• Morning session provides breakfast; afternoon session provides lunch
• Enrollment packets can be picked up at Catlin, Kinderpalooza, or accessed online at bit.ly/ksd-early
• Learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early

TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN (TK)

Transition to Kindergarten (TK) is a FREE pre-kindergarten program for children who will be four years old by August 31, 2026, and would benefit from additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten the following year. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators.

• Full day, five days a week
• Access to transportation (for those who do not live in identified walking boundaries)
• Access to specialists, recess, lunch, and all aspects of the kindergarten school day
• To the greatest extent possible, students will be placed for TK at their home school
• Apply for the program online at bit.ly/ksd-tk-app
• Learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early

KINDERGARTEN

Kindergarten is for children who will be five years old by September 1, 2026. To determine which school children should attend, families can enter their address at bit.ly/school-site. Documents needed for enrollment include: birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. There are two ways to register:

1. Fill out a paper packet. Enrollment packets may be picked up at any elementary school, Kinderpalooza, or downloaded from the Kelso School District (KSD) website at bit.ly/enrollatksd.
2. Enroll online at bit.ly/enrollatksd.

Not sure which program is right for your child? For a detailed comparison between TK, Preschool Pups, and Head Start—including program staffing, calendars, and qualifications—visit bit.ly/ksd-early or see the document at bit.ly/ksd-earlyinfo.

KINDERPALOOZA
Kinderpalooza, a fun event for Kelso kindergartners, early learners, and their families, is Tuesday, May 5, at Coweeman Middle School (2000 Allen St, Kelso) from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. At this event you can:

• Register for school if needed (even if you’ve already registered, please come)
• Meet Kelso staff
• Board and ride a school bus
• Learn about summer learning activities in our community
• Get information about the breakfast and lunch programs
• Learn how to become a parent volunteer
• Talk to a school nurse about medications and immunizations
• Take a picture at the Class of 2039 photo booth
• Enjoy some snacks
• AND MORE!!!!

For additional information or questions, families can contact their school office or email ly.learning@kelsosd.org">early.learning@kelsosd.org.

About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.  When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).

Portland, Ore., February 27, 2026 – Registration is now open for the annual Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric. This year, SOLVE is expanding its largest spring volunteer initiative to span the entire month of April, turning Earth Month into coordinated action across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

The Oregon Spring Cleanup is SOLVE’s largest spring volunteer initiative, bringing together individuals, families, schools, businesses, and community groups to care for beaches, neighborhoods, parks, natural areas, and waterways. Projects include litter cleanups and habitat restoration efforts such as native plantings, invasive species removal, and mulching. In April 2025, the initiative supported 214 projects, engaging nearly 4,500 volunteers who removed 26,077 pounds of trash and cleared more than 22 acres of invasive species across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

With 65 events already open for registration, volunteers can sign up for projects taking place throughout April. SOLVE is aiming for 200+ projects across the region and continues to recruit additional event leaders to broaden statewide engagement. Expanding the initiative to a full month creates greater access and enables more communities to take part in coordinated Earth Month action.

“Earth Month is a powerful reminder that local action drives meaningful environmental impact,” said Kregg Arntson, Director of Community Impact at Portland General Electric. “Through our partnership with SOLVE, PGE deepens its commitment to helping Oregon’s vibrant communities become climate resilient communities.”  

As global attention turns toward environmental awareness in April, the Oregon Spring Cleanup provides a way to translate that momentum into tangible results. Each project contributes to protecting natural spaces, improving neighborhood livability, and preventing litter from entering rivers and the ocean ahead of peak recreation season.

SOLVE is actively seeking additional event leaders to host cleanup or restoration projects in April. Whether returning hosts or first-time leaders, participants receive planning support, free supplies, disposal assistance, and volunteer recruitment tools. Hosting a project can be as simple as identifying a site in need and completing the new leader orientation at volunteer.solve.org/orientation.

How to Get Involved

• Volunteer: Browse the event calendar and register yourself or a group at volunteer.solve.org/oregon-spring
• Lead your own project: SOLVE provides all the necessary resources, including supplies and disposal funds, to make hosting a project easy for you.
• Encourage participation: Invite schools, workplaces, and community groups to take part in Earth Month action

The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2026 is made possible through the partnership with Portland General Electric and the generous support of Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon State Park & Recreation, The Standard, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Intel, Kaiser Permanente, KOIN6, LAM Research, Lithia & Driveway, National Parks Recreation & Parks Association, and PepsiCo.

For more information or to register, visit solve.org/oregon-spring

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. 

[PORTLAND, Oregon] – VA Portland Health Care System today announced it has begun infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe and effective patient care.

These projects are part of a record $4.8 billion in nationwide VA spending to modernize, repair and improve department health care facilities in fiscal year 2026 via the Veterans Health Administration’s Non-Recurring Maintenance program.

VA Portland Health Care System improvement projects for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 are:

• Vancouver Campus-Bldg. 2 Laundry and Warehouse; heating and cooling system upgrades.
• Vancouver Campus-Community Living Center; wheelchair/disabled persons ramp upgrades to improve emergency egress
• Vancouver Campus-Community Living Center; E-Wing medical gas outlet upgrades
• Portland Campus-Electrical upgrades to improve facility electrical resilience
• Portland & Vancouver Campuses-Information Technology upgrades in order to align with 2027 Federal EHR requirements.

“Improved facilities, equipment and infrastructure mean better care for Veterans, and these funds will enable VA Portland Health Care System to achieve that goal,” said Karla Azcuy, Director. “Better care and safety for Veterans and our staff is our goal, and these projects will enable us to achieve just that.”

These infrastructure investments are part of a host of important initiatives to improve VA during the second Trump Administration. Since Jan. 20, 2025, VA has:

• Reduced the backlog of Veterans waiting for VA benefits by 60%.
• Eliminated the backlog of Veteran families waiting for VA health care.
• Processed record numbers of disability claims, reaching an all-time fiscal-year high of three million claims processed Sept. 30.
• Opened 25 new health care clinics, expanding access for Vets around the country.
• Offered Veterans more than 1.9 million appointments outside of normal operating hours. These early-morning, evening, and weekend appointments are giving Veterans more timely and convenient options for care.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (February 26, 2025) ~ Cancer patients in the Portland area can expect expanded access to radiation treatment in the coming years, as a 4,300-square-foot addition gets underway at the Interstate Radiation Oncology Clinic. Leaders from Kaiser Permanente Northwest and its Radiation Oncology team gathered Wednesday to mark the start of construction on the project, which is designed to increase capacity as demand for cancer care continues to rise across the region.

The expansion is designed to help address a growing need for radiation therapy services in the Pacific Northwest, where more people are living longer after a cancer diagnosis. By expanding treatment and planning capacity, the project aims to reduce delays in care, keep patients close to home, and strengthen access to timely cancer treatment for the broader community.

"This groundbreaking marks a significant milestone for our team and our patients," said Dr. Tasha McDonald, Chief of Radiation Oncology at Kaiser Permanente Northwest. "We've been waiting a long time to build this expansion, and it reflects something very positive. Our ability to prolong lives with cancer treatments means we are caring for more cancer patients than ever before. Radiation oncology is a dynamic, technology-driven field, and our ongoing investments in state-of-the-art equipment enhance the safe and effective care already delivered to our patients. With the addition of this new facility and advanced machines, we'll be able to strengthen our ability to provide world-class, leading-edge treatment while addressing the increasing demand for cancer care throughout the Northwest region. This expansion both signifies our commitment to advancing medical technology and underscores our dedication to patient-centered care."

Construction is expected to be completed in 2027, with the expanded clinic supporting both cancer treatment and regional imaging needs. Once open, the facility will help strengthen cancer care capacity in the Portland area and support Kaiser Permanente's broader commitment to improving public health through early, effective, and accessible cancer treatment.

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem is pleased to announce that the Civic Seismic Retrofit project is progressing as planned. We are still forecasting the completion of renovations and anticipate moving back into the renovated space in early 2027.

Civic Center Seismic Retrofit

The building upgrades are designed to provide safe exiting of the building during an earthquake. A little more than six months ago, construction started. Since that time, exterior shear walls have been successfully installed, marking a significant milestone in the project. Our current focus is now on the interior of the space, where we are making progress on essential plumbing and wiring installations. This project paid for by the 2022 voter-approved, Community Safety and Livability Bond.

Where to find City services.

Many City services are in temporary locations while the Civic Center is retrofitted to meet current seismic standards. Our Customer Service Center is at our Parkway location, 440 Church Street, and open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., until further notice. The Customer Service Center serves as a convenient hub for residents, offering a range of services such as applying, paying, reporting, requesting, and reserving, all in one central location. Whether you need to pay utility bills, report a concern, or reserve a city facility, the Customer Service Center is here to assist you with all your needs.

You can find us online (https://www.cityofsalem.net/i-want-to) or at the following locations:

City Services at Parkway Building

• Customer Service Center
  440 Church Street SE, 5th Floor
  Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Permit Application Center
  440 Church Street SE, 5th Floor

Salem Municipal Court at Broadway Building

• Salem Municipal Court
  2850 Broadway Street NE
  Customer parking is available in the surface lot off Broadway Street NE (north of Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway).

City Services by Appointment

• Code Compliance Services
  Phone: 503-588-6421
  350 Commercial Street NE
• Mayor and City Manager
  Phone: 503-588-6255
  Email: manager@cityofsalem.net
  440 Church Street SE, 5th Floor
• Finance and Purchasing
  Phone: 503-588-6040
  Email: finance@cityofsalem.net
  440 Church Street SE, 5th Floor
• City Recorder
  Phone: 503-588-6003
  Email: ecorder@cityofsalem.net">cityrecorder@cityofsalem.net
  440 Church Street SE, 5th Floor

We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to enhance the safety and resilience of our civic facilities.

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