January 12, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

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

971-323-3831

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional resources:

Two-page summary of the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes from youth who received tuition assistance through YEHP partnerships:

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

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

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

    Presented by Marie Atwood

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

Administrative Announcement

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

Información en español

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 24, 2026. 

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
January 12, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

PF&R responds to residential fire with fire victim.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This investigation remains ongoing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

McFarland said it left a lasting impact. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

McFarland dijo que esta experiencia le dejó una huella imborrable. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Event Details

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

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

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

About SOLVE 

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Announcement made during the Jan. 8 Board Work Session

• Retirement effective July 2026 following 19 years of service

• Board to launch national search for next General Manager

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

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

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

A Legacy of Community Connection

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

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

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

Transition and Search Process

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

About Cherriots

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

For more information, visit www.cherriots.org.

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

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

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

Reckless Driver Arrested Following Pursuit

January 10, 2026 – Newport, OR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Facts about measles

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

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

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

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

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

New Advanced Manufacturing Center addresses growing workforce demand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more:

• Clark College’s AMC at Boschma Farms location

• Clark College’s Advanced Manufacturing Program

• Video preview available here

About Clark College 

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

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

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

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

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

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

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

Or Telephone, dial:
     +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 879 4165 3784
Passcode: 017162

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by the Hoodland Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

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

The positions are for Clark County residents that represent:

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

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

Functions of the 10-member board include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Limited water service impacts

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

Access and translation

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Several photos are being released from today’s ceremony.

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

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

###

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

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

Other notable activity so far in January:

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

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

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

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

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

City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

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

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

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

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

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

WORKING SESSION

• Strategic Plan & Goals update

REGULAR SESSION

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

Reports:

Action Items:

• Policies Second Reading

CPA-AR:  Layoff and Recall for Administrators

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

JFCEB:  Personal Electronic Devices

JFCEB-AR:  Request for Personal Electronic Devices Exception

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

Discussion Items:     

• Bond Update
• Policies First Reading

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

• 2026-2027 School Calendar

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84323900130?pwd=YBKF4kdY1RaVio65gPErSflGKGs0i4.1

Passcode:766546

Phone one-tap:

+12532050468,,84323900130#,,,,766546# US +12532158782,,84323900130#,,,,766546# US (Tacoma)

Join via audio:

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Webinar ID: 843 2390 0130

Passcode: 766546

International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kep7931GtF

WORKING SESSION

• Strategic Plan & Goals update

REGULAR SESSION

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

Reports:

Action Items:

• Policies Second Reading

CPA-AR:  Layoff and Recall for Administrators

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

JFCEB:  Personal Electronic Devices

JFCEB-AR:  Request for Personal Electronic Devices Exception

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

Discussion Items:    

• Bond Update
• Policies First Reading

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

• 2026-2027 School Calendar

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84323900130?pwd=YBKF4kdY1RaVio65gPErSflGKGs0i4.1

Passcode:766546

Phone one-tap:

+12532050468,,84323900130#,,,,766546# US +12532158782,,84323900130#,,,,766546# US (Tacoma)

Join via audio:

+1 253 205 0468 US+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 444 9171 US +1 669

900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 719 359 4580 US +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)+1 360 209 5623 US +1 386 347 5053

US +1 507 473 4847 US +1 564 217 2000 US +1 646 931 3860 US

+1 689 278 1000 US +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 305 224 1968 US +1 309 205 3325 US

Webinar ID: 843 2390 0130

Passcode: 766546

International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kep7931GtF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ROSEBURG, OR - UCC Performing and Visual Arts presents the Vintage Singers performing their 49th annual Twelfth Night concert on January 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. and January 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Roseburg.

The music performance is directed by Donna Spicer and accompanied by Tammy Finch-Johnson and Gwen Soderberg-Chase. This year’s concert will feature music ranging from the Renaissance to present day arrangements of Mele Kalikimaka, Holiday Inn, Angels We Have Heard on High  and other familiar carols. Additional performers include Jeff Plummer and Bob Carwithen on trombone.

Admission is available online or at the door: $15.00 general admission, $10.00 seniors, students are admitted FREE. For more information, contact 541-440-4691 or music@umpqua.edu.

During the holiday season of December 2025, through New Year's Day 2026, the Newberg-Dundee Police Department focused on taking impaired drivers off the roadway in the cities of Newberg & Dundee. During that time, 7 DUI arrests were made, including one arrest made during a shift that was funded by the Oregon Department of Transportation. Grant funds are used to put more officers on the road during peak holiday times when impaired driving can be more prevalent.  NDPD participates in several similar operatons throughout the year to encourage safer roadways.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell issued the following statement in response to the shooting in Portland’s Hazelwood neighborhood.

“The use of deadly force by law enforcement weighs heavily on all of us who serve.

I am monitoring the situation that occurred this afternoon in Southeast Portland. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office was not involved in the shooting, nor were we on scene when it happened.

My thoughts are with those who were injured during this shooting, their families, and anyone who witnessed it.

Moments like this can create even greater fear and I recognize the weight of emotion our country and now our community is carrying right now.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is here to keep people safe. This is a tense and emotional moment, but our commitment remains the same. MCSO deputies will continue to respond with professionalism and care for everyone in our community.

As Sheriff, I support the community’s right to peacefully and lawfully assemble. If people choose to gather, we ask that it be done lawfully and safely. As a community, we must commit to responses that heal rather than destroy. MCSO stands ready to support the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) to advance public safety.”

Message Translated in Spanish:

Un Mensaje de la Alguacil del Condado de Multnomah Sobre el Tiroteo en Portland Involucrando Agentes Federales

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – La Alguacil del Condado de Multnomah, Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell, comparte el siguiente mensaje en respuesta al tiroteo ocurrido en el barrio de Hazelwood, en Portland.

El uso de la fuerza letal por parte de las fuerzas del orden nos pesa mucho a todos los que servimos nuestra comunidad.

Estoy siguiendo de cerca la situación que se ha producido esta tarde en el sureste de Portland. Quiero hacer claro que nuestra oficina no ha participado en el tiroteo, ni estuvimos presentes en el lugar donde ocurrieron los hechos. 

Mis oraciones están con los heridos, sus familias y todos los que lo presenciaron. 

Momentos como este pueden generar aún más miedo y estoy consciente del peso emocional que nuestro país y ahora nuestra comunidad asume en estos momentos.

La investigación está siendo llevada a cabo por el FBI. 

La Oficina del Alguacil del Condado de Multnomah está aquí para garantizar la seguridad de todos los miembros de la comunidad. Este es un momento tenso y emotivo, pero nuestro compromiso sigue siendo el mismo. Los deputados de MCSO seguirán respondiendo con profesionalismo y atención a todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad.

Como Alguacil, apoyo el derecho de la comunidad a reunirse de forma pacífica y legal. Si deciden reunirse, pedimos que lo hagan de forma legal y segura. Como comunidad, debemos comprometernos a dar respuestas que sanen y fomentan la paz en lugar de destruir. MCSO está dispuesta a apoyar a la Oficina de Policía de Portland (PPB) para promover la seguridad pública.

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The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Executive & Working Session Meeting on Monday, January 12, 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: Shaver goals report, consent agenda, government affairs update, 26-27 budget overview, board budget, personal pd goals, superintendent evaluation planning, budget committee applicant interview planning and an appeal to the board

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.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Community Services is asking residents who are living on a limited income to complete a survey about their family’s needs. This confidential survey is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, and Chuukese and will take about 15 minutes to complete.

The survey will be available now through March 31.

Paper copies are available from human services providers such as agencies that offer housing, food, health services, and employment assistance.

Online versions are available at the links below

English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37

Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=es

Russian: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=ru

Ukrainian: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=uk

Chuukese: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NKP3Z5Y

If you are unable to obtain a paper copy from a service provider, please contact Abby Molloy at (546) 397-7832 or by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

Community Services is required to conduct a Community Needs Assessment every three years. The results will help Clark County and the Community Action Advisory Board prioritize funding for anti-poverty services. Beyond county funding and policy, this assessment provides information on the landscape of poverty in Clark County and is shared publicly and used broadly by local organizations in their program development and grant application processes.

El Condado le pide a los residentes que respondan a una encuesta sobre las necesidades de la comunidad

Vancouver, Wash. – El Departamento de Servicios Comunitarios del Condado de Clark le está pidiendo a los residentes que tienen bajos ingresos que completen una encuesta sobre las necesidades de sus familias. Esta encuesta confidencial está disponible en inglés, español, ruso, ucraniano y chuukés, y tarda unos 15 minutos en completarse.

La encuesta estará disponible desde ahora hasta el 31 de marzo.

Los proveedores de servicios humanos, como las agencias que ofrecen vivienda, alimentación, servicios para la salud y ayuda al empleo, disponen de copias impresas.

Las versiones en línea están disponibles en los siguientes enlaces

Inglés: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37

Español: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=es

Ruso: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=ru

Ucraniano: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=uk

Chuukés: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NKP3Z5Y

Si no puede obtener una copia impresa de un proveedor de servicios, póngase en contacto con Abby Molloy llamando al (546) 397-7832 o por correo electrónico en by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

El Departamento de Servicios Comunitarios debe realizar una Evaluación de las Necesidades de la Comunidad cada tres años. Los resultados ayudarán al Condado de Clark y a la Junta Asesora de Acción Comunitaria a priorizar la financiación de los servicios de lucha contra la pobreza. Más allá de la financiación y la política del condado, esta evaluación proporciona información sobre el panorama de la pobreza en el Condado de Clark y es compartida públicamente y utilizada ampliamente por las organizaciones locales en sus procesos de desarrollo de programas y solicitud de subvenciones.

Округ просит жителей ответить на вопросы анкеты о потребностях сообщества

Vancouver, Wash. – Служба общественных услуг округа Кларк просит жителей с низким доходом заполнить анкету опроса о потребностях их семей. Эта конфиденциальная анкета доступна на английском, испанском, русском, украинском и чуукском языках, а ее заполнение займет около 15 минут.

Анкета опроса будет доступна с настоящего момента до 31 марта включительно.

Бумажные копии анкеты можно получить у поставщиков социальных услуг, таких как агентства, которые предлагают услуги в сфере жилья, питания, медицинские услуги и помощь в трудоустройстве.

Онлайн-версии доступны по ссылкам, приведенным ниже:

Английский: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37

Испанский: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=es

Русский: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=ru

Украинский: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=uk

Чуукский: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NKP3Z5Y

Если Вы не можете получить бумажную копию анкеты от поставщика услуг, пожалуйста, свяжитесь с Эбби Моллой по телефону (546) 397-7832 или по электронной почте by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

Служба общественных услуг обязана проводить оценку потребностей сообщества каждые три года. Результаты этой оценки помогут округу Кларк и Консультативному совету по вопросам общественной деятельности определить приоритеты в финансировании программ по борьбе с бедностью. Помимо предоставления информации, используемой при принятии решений о финансировании и политике округа, эта оценка предоставляет сведения о ситуации с бедностью в округе Кларк, которые публикуются и широко используются местными организациями при разработке программ и подаче заявок на гранты.

Округ проводить опитування мешканців щодо потреб громади

Vancouver, Wash. – Служба громадських послуг округу Кларк просить мешканців з низьким рівнем доходу заповнити анкету опитування про потреби їхніх сімей. Ця конфіденційна анкета доступна англійською, іспанською, російською, українською та чуукською мовами, а її заповнення займе близько 15 хвилин.

Це опитування вже розпочалося і проводитиметься до 31 березня включно.

Паперові копії анкети опитування можна отримати у постачальників соціальних послуг, таких як організації, що пропонують послуги у сфері житла, харчування, медичні послуги та допомогу у працевлаштуванні.

Онлайн-версії доступні за наступними посиланнями:

Англійська: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37

Іспанська: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=es

Російська: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=ru

Українська: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=uk

Чуукська: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NKP3Z5Y

Якщо Ви не можете отримати паперову копію від постачальника послуг, зверніться до Еббі Моллой за номером (546) 397-7832 або електронною адресою by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

Служба громадських послуг зобов'язана проводити оцінку потреб громади кожні три роки. Результати цієї оцінки допоможуть округу Кларк та Консультативній раді з питань громадської діяльності визначити пріоритети у фінансуванні програм, спрямованих на боротьбу з бідністю. Окрім інформації, що використовується для визначення фінансування та політики округу, ця оцінка надає дані про ситуацію з бідністю в окрузі Кларк, які оприлюднюються та широко використовуються місцевими організаціями для розробки програм та подання заявок на отримання грантів.

Ei County mei nemei aninis seni aramasen non ei kinikin ika sopw ren ar repwe pénúeni ekewe kapas eis fan iten nonomwur

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Community Services a tungor ngeni ekewe aramasen non ei neni mei kúkkún ar mwoni tonong ar repwe pénúeni ew survey ika kapas eis fan iten met an ar famini niit. Ei survey ika kapas eis fan iten nonomwun emon mei mwonomwon me tumwun iwe mei kawor non Fosun Merika, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, me Fosun Chuuk nge taman omw kopwe awes iwe 15 minich.

Ei survey mi sopwosopwonó angangen tori Mar. 31.

Kapin ekkei taropwe mei wor ren ekewe human services providers ren ekewe offes ir mei aninis ren pekin imw, mwongo, health services ren pekin safei ika apochokunen inis, me aninis pekin angang.

Ekei taropwe ika esinesin mei kawor online ren ekkei link mei nomw fan:

Fosun Merika: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37

Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=es

Russian: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=ru

Ukrainian: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ99Q37?lang=uk

Fosun Chuuk: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NKP3Z5Y

Ika kose tongeni angei kapin ekene taropwe seni ew service provider ika offes, kose mochen kokori Abby Molloy wón ei nampa (546) 397-7832 ika mak ngeni by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov

Community Services wiser repwe awora ew Community Needs Assessment ika angangen churi aramasen ewe neni ar repwe kapas ngenir fan iten nonomwur nge repwe fori ekei iteitan mwurin 3 ier. Pwungunón ei angang mei tongeni epwe anisi Clark County me ewe Community Action Advisory Board ar repwe akomwa me awora aninisin mwoni ngeni ekewe pekin ir mi aninis fan iten aninisin mei osupwang ika nafangaw. Me núkkún ekewe aninisin mwoni me pekin anúk, ekkei kapas eis fan iten nonomwun aramas mei awora kapas mei euchea ika tichikin pworous fan iten nafangaw me osupwangen aramas non Clark County iwe ekkei tichikin pworous mei kawor ngeni public ika aramas ese nifinifin pwan ngeni ekewe local organizations ika ekewe pútai non ar kese prokram fan itan amari me aeochuwenoi nonomwun aramas me ekewe nenien amasou ngeni pekin aninis.

On the morning of 1/8/26, a male entered the Milwaukie Public Safety Building (PSB) lobby and inquired about retrieving property he claimed was in storage in the police department facility. The male spoke with the Milwaukie Police evidence technician about the property and during that interaction, the evidence technician informed the male the Police did not have any property of his. The male showed the evidence technician his barefoot and after replacing his shoe abruptly ended the conversation and walked toward the exit.

Prior to exiting the lobby, the male reached out and pulled the PSB fire alarm activation lever, which sounded the evacuation alarm and triggered various safety devices and systems within PSB, a municipal government facility which includes the Milwaukie Police Department, The City of Milwaukie Information Technology and Clackamas County Fire Department station #2. The male immediately ran away to the East on SE Harrison Street.

Officers located the male, Tyler R. Mears, 30 of Milwaukie a short distance away and took him into custody without incident. He was lodged at the Clackamas County Jail for disorderly conduct. None of Mr. Mears property was retained at PSB.

Special thanks to a quick response from Clackamas Fire station #2 in silencing alarms and assisting in determining quickly there was no mechanical or life safety failures in the building effecting personnel safety. MiPD case #26-000133

VIDEO: MiPD 26-133, Fire Alarm pulled at PSB on 1-8-26

City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

Josephine County, Ore. (Jan. 8, 2026)- On Tuesday, January 7, 2026, at 8:50 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 10, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Toyota Tundra, operated by Marisha Lynn Trainor (52) of Eugene, reportedly swerved to miss a deer in the roadway, lost control, and rolled multiple times along the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle came to rest on it's roof.

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

A passenger in the Toyota, Teddie Dianne Tibbets (47) of Selma, was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Grants Pass Fire, Rural Metro, 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.

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
January 8, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES NEW INCENTIVES FOR 2026 CIVICS BEE, REWARDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AND SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT

State champions can earn a $5,000 donation for their school and a paid trip to Washington, D.C.

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Presenting Sponsor OnPoint Community Credit Union, is announcing new incentives for the 2026 National Civics Bee®, further elevating the competition’s impact on student achievement, civic learning, and school engagement across southwest Washington.

In addition to cash prizes for local winners, students who advance beyond the local competition now have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on their school communities. If the local champion advances to the state competition and wins, their school could receive a $5,000 donation. State champions will also earn a paid trip to Washington, D.C., where they will represent Washington at the National Civics Bee® Championship in Fall 2026.

The National Civics Bee® is an educational initiative designed to inspire middle school students to explore American democracy, strengthen their understanding of civics, and develop real-world problem-solving skills, all while competing for recognition and prizes.

Local 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are invited to participate in the first round of the competition by submitting a 500–750 word essay. The essay prompt challenges students to identify an issue or opportunity in their community and propose thoughtful, actionable solutions encouraging civic curiosity, critical thinking, and community involvement.

Essay submissions will be accepted through Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. at VancouverUSA.com/Civics-Bee.

A panel of distinguished judges, made up of local business and community leaders, will review submissions. The top 20 students will advance to the final round - a live quiz competition testing civics knowledge in a fast-paced and engaging format. The live quiz event will take place on Monday, April 20, 2026.
 

The top three local winners will advance to the state-level competition, where they’ll compete for additional honors and prizes. Local cash awards include $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for

third place.

The 2026 Southwest Washington Civics Bee is presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union, an organization deeply rooted in education. Founded by teachers in 1932, OnPoint has a long-standing commitment to supporting students, educators, and lifelong learning throughout the community.

“We’re proud to support the Southwest Washington Civics Bee as a reflection of our commitment to meaningful community partnerships and continued expansion in southwest Washington,” said Amy Reeves, SVP, SW Washington Regional Manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “By working alongside organizations that strengthen civic education, we help create opportunities that empower students and contribute to the long-term success of the communities we serve.”

“The National Civics Bee creates a powerful bridge between education, civic engagement, and community leadership. These additional incentives reinforce the importance of student achievement while encouraging schools to actively support civic learning. We’re grateful to OnPoint Community Credit Union for helping us expand the impact of this program across southwest Washington,” said Janet Kenefsky, Chief Operating Officer at the Greater Vancouver Chamber.

For more information on the essay topic, submission guidelines, competition rules, and access to teacher and parent resources, visit VancouverUSA.com/Civics-Bee.

The 2026 Southwest Washington Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, led by Presenting Sponsor OnPoint Community Credit Union, with additional support from AAA Washington, the City of Battle Ground, Desimone Consulting Group, and Greenhaven Landscapes.

Business leaders interested in sponsoring the National Civics Bee® and supporting civic education are encouraged to contact the Greater Vancouver Chamber at tnerships@VancouverUSA.com" id="link-mailto:Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com-d8e85a2cfba8" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89);" target="_self">Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com.

###

About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local middle school students participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in our local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top three students from each local competition will advance to the state competition. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this competition was launched to tackle the lack of knowledge about history and civics among middle school students, exposed by new federal data on the Nation's Report Card. In 2022, the average civics score at eighth grade decreased by 2 points compared to 2018.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 633,000 members and with assets of $9.53 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com.

Lake County, Ore. (Jan. 8, 2026)- On Monday, January 5, 2026, at 4:17 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 88, in Lake County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford F-250, operated by Destiny Elizabeth Canaday (30) of Bly, lost control and rolled multiple times in the ditch after passing another vehicle. The operator was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle.

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

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. Speed and roadway conditions are considered primary factors in the cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Thomas Creek Fire, Lake County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

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

UPDATE: Oregon State Police arrest James Mason Liggett (52) in connection with an explosive device placed in the public restroom at Sunset Beach State Park.

Liggett was wanted in Clatsop County for the following charges:

• Attempted Murder
• Attempted Assault I
• Attempted Assault II
• Arson I
• Possession of a Destructive Device
• Manufacture of a Destructive Device

Liggett was arrested on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Grants Pass by OSP SWAT, with the assistance of the OSP Explosives unit, and OSP Major Crimes. 

OSP was assisted in the investigation by Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Oregon Parks Department, Warrenton Fire Department, Astoria Fire Department, Astoria Police Department, and Seaside Police Department.

At this time, additional details are not available for release during the adjudication process.

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 16, 2025) – On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 10:21 a.m., Oregon State Parks notified the Oregon State Police of a suspicious backpack in a public bathroom at Sunset Beach State Recreation Site in Clatsop County.
 

Oregon State Police located the backpack and requested explosives experts respond and investigate the incident. Bomb technicians from the Oregon State Police and Salem Police Department responded to the scene and rendered the device safe. No injuries were associated with this incident.
 

State Parks and Oregon State Police checked multiple locations throughout the day and did not locate any additional suspicious devices. While this is believed to be an isolated incident, the public should remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects to local law enforcement by calling 911 and remaining at a safe distance from the object.
 

Oregon State Police is asking any person with information related to the incident to contact investigators at OSP (677) or 1 (800) 442-0776 and reference case number SP25406805.

The criminal investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available for release at this time.
 

Oregon State Police were assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Oregon Parks Department, Warrenton Fire Department, and Astoria Fire Department.

# # #

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. 

EUGENE, Ore.—The owner of three businesses pleaded guilty yesterday for stealing more than $487,386.75 in federal funds intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jodi Aliece Jennings, 50, of Junction City, Oregon, pleaded guilty to wire fraud.

According to court documents, between April 2020 and January 2022, Jennings applied for and obtained six Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans and one Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) Advance and submitted three fraudulent forgiveness applications for Meridian Redevelopment, J Jenn Enterprises Inc., and J2 Investments. Jennings falsely claimed each company was in business and paid payroll prior to and during the pandemic. Jennings used these loans on personal expenses.

In total, Jennings stole no less than $487,386.75, including the EIDL advance and principal, interest, and SBA paid lender fees on the PPPs.

On June 15, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Jennings with nine counts of wire fraud.

Jennings faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced on April 22, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Jennings has agreed to pay restitution to the SBA.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission will hold two upcoming meetings. The meetings will be held 5-7 pm Wednesday, Jan. 14, and Thursday, Jan. 22.

The meetings are open to the public and will be held in a hybrid format. Attend in person in the sixth-floor hearing room in the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. or virtually via Webex using a link on this web page.

The commission will review the county’s charter and potentially make recommendations for amendments. Fifteen commissioners were elected in the November 2025 general election; three commissioners for each of the five County Councilor districts. Commissioner terms began Jan. 1, 2026, and end Dec. 31, 2027.

Any proposed amendments to the county charter must be decided by Clark County voters in a General Election. Clark County voters in November 2014 voted to adopt the home rule form of government.

More information on the commission is on the county website.

Salem, OR— For taxpayers wanting to claim their share of Oregon’s $1.41 billion kicker  as soon as possible, filing electronically has never been more important.

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

“The good news is that nobody has to wait,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Personal Tax and Compliance Division at the Department of Revenue. “There’s a simple solution. File electronically.”

Oregon will begin processing electronically-filed returns Monday, January 26, the same day as the IRS.

The department will begin issuing refunds for e-filed returns February 15. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns can’t begin until the end of March.

Taxpayers may be eager to receive their tax refund this year due to the kicker. Oregon’s unique kicker is a refundable tax credit that either reduces the amount of tax owed or increases the amount of a taxpayer’s refund.

“To get your kicker, you must file a return. This year, if you file a paper return, you’re going to face a significant delay in receiving your refund,” Denison said. “Taxpayers who file electronically can avoid the extra wait.”

Chris Wytoski, manager of the Department of Revenue’s processing center, where paper forms and checks are processed, explained why the delay in receiving forms and information from the IRS will push back paper return processing.

“Using scanners, our front-end system captures the data reported on paper tax returns and checks. It then records the data in a digital format in our core accounting system,” Wytoski said. “We have to tell the system what data to capture and where to find it on each page of the return. Until the federal returns were finalized, we weren’t able to finalize Oregon’s returns and, ultimately, configure our system.”

The result is a delay for Oregon taxpayers filing paper returns this year.

Taxpayers who choose to file a paper return, should be sure to mail it early. Due to changes at the U.S. Postal Service, returns mailed in after April 9 may not receive a postmark on time. Taxpayers who still want to mail their paper returns can take them to a local USPS office and request a postmark no later than April 15, 2026. 

Paper returns can also be physically deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Department of Revenue Building in Salem, or outside the DOR offices in Portland, Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box at DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.

The delay in paper return processing will mean that the department won’t be able to tell taxpayers who file paper returns that their return has been received until paper return processing starts at the end of March and their specific return enters processing. That also means information on paper-filed returns won’t be available in the “Where’s My Refund?” tool until that time.

Statewide, electronic filing rates have been steadily increasing in the last decade. In 2016, 86 percent of taxpayers filed electronically. That number edged above 90 percent in 2020 and last year, nearly 95 percent of Oregon personal income tax returns were filed electronically.

The state expects to receive more than 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns for tax year 2025, Denison said, and approximately 95 percent are again expected to be filed electronically. That still leaves a significant number of taxpayers who could wind up waiting longer than they’d like for their refund and kicker.

For tax year 2023, nearly 123,000 Oregon personal income tax returns were paper filed. More than 100,000 – or five out of every six paper filers – claimed a refund. Choosing to file electronically this year will help those taxpayers to get their refund sooner.

Denison said Oregon taxpayers have multiple free options to file their state returns electronically.

Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is an interview-based program similar to commercial software and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online for free. More than 14,000 taxpayers filed their Oregon personal income tax returns with Direct File Oregon in 2025.

Information about filing electronically, including a list of free tax preparation software products and other ways to get help filing your tax return for free, can be found on the Get Free Help with Your Taxes page of the department’s website.

A full list of approved commercial e-filing software is available on our Electronic filing webpage.

-30-

Note to editors and news directors (not for publication):

Video b-roll of Department of Revenue scanners capturing

information from tax forms is available for download from Vimeo.

Update

The motorycyle rider did not survive his injuries. 

The investigation by the Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is continuing and nothing additional is releaseable at this time. 

Vancouver, Wash. – On January 7, 2026, at around 2:53 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to E 32^nd Street/Main Street for the report of a motorcycle vs. vehicle collision. The motorcycle rider was transported to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver remained on scene and impairment does not appear to be a factor.

The Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is investigating. Main Street at E 29^th will remain closed while emergency personnel remain on scene.

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The Washington County Major Crimes Team is investigating the death of a man that happened at a medical center in Hillsboro yesterday.

On January 7 at 1:07 p.m., security personnel from Hillsboro Medical Center called dispatch, asking police to respond for a combative visitor. It was reported that hospital security had the man held on the ground.  Two Hillsboro police officers arrived and placed him into handcuffs at 1:20 p.m.

Once in handcuffs, officers observed the man might be having a serious medical event and called for medical personnel to respond at 1:21 p.m. Officers removed the handcuffs and lifesaving efforts began immediately. Sadly, those efforts were unsuccessful, and the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Because the medical event may have happened around the time he was detained, the interagency Washington County Major Crimes Team responded to the scene and is leading the investigation. The officers involved have been placed on critical incident leave, which is standard protocol while the investigation is pending and is not an indication of wrongdoing.

Any further updates on this case will either come from the Washington County Major Crimes Team or the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.

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(Please note: this news release is coming from the Washington County Major Crimes Team)

January 8, 2025

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

OHA urges screening during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority is marking this year’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month with a reminder that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable, and vaccinations and screenings—including free screenings for people without insurance—protect against this deadly cancer.

OHA encourages people to get screened for cervical cancer, which includes Pap tests and human papillomavirus (HPV) tests that can find precancerous cell changes and detect cervical cancer early.

As many as 93% of cervical cancers could be prevented by cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination.

When found early, cervical cancer is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life. But people should get screened for cervical cancer regularly, even if you received an HPV vaccine.

OHA also urges people to get the HPV vaccine. It can prevent new HPV infections, but it does not treat existing infections or diseases.

That’s why the vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV. The vaccine is recommended for all people through age 26, including boys and men.

Oregon’s Screenwise Program helps to alleviate the burden cancer can cause and reduce health inequities in Oregon through education, screening, early detection, evidence-based care and access to medical treatment. 

The program offers cervical cancer screening free of charge for people without insurance. OHA urges people to schedule screenings with their providers. People without a provider should call 211 for assistance.    

To learn more about Screenwise, and for more resources, go to the program’s web page, or call 877-255-7070. 

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Criminal Justice Commission reduces Marion County’s deflection funding by more than half a million dollars

January 8, 2026 – Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson has informed local partners that the innovative diversionary treatment program “RESTORE” (Restitution and Treatment on Route to Expungement) Court must cease operations due to insufficient funding from the State. While the county is committed to completing the program for current participants, it will not be sustained into the future with any new enrollment.  DA Clarkson said, “I am truly disappointed that our State could not see the value in an operational program that sought to get offenders the treatment they need while simultaneously making victims whole and helping our community in the process.”   She added, “This is exactly the type of wholistic thinking our state leaders should champion and not punish.” 

Background:  In 2024, HB 4002 recriminalized drugs following the failed decriminalization effort of Ballot Measure 110.  As part of that new statutory structure under HB 3069 (2025), the Oregon Legislature offered funding – allocated through the Criminal Justice Commission (CJC) to encourage counties to create deflection programs that offer treatment instead of criminal justice sanctions for users caught with small amounts of narcotics.

Marion County’s decade-old LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) Program has been widely regarded as a national best practice diversion model. Under HB 4002, most other communities scrambled to create LEAD-like programs, and Marion County spearheaded training for communities and programs around the state. Additionally, Marion County saw an opportunity to do more.  “When the state passed HB 4002, we were already doing deflection right - with accountability and compassion that was truly making a difference.  We wanted to take these concepts further and help even more people that were not otherwise eligible for basic deflection under LEAD. HB 3069 gave us the funding to do that,” said DA Clarkson, “and RESTORE was created.”

RESTORE Court partnered the DA with Marion County Judges, the Marion County Health Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office to help offenders who owed restitution to victims of property crimes such as Criminal Mischief, Forgery or Theft and therefore could not benefit from LEAD. RESTORE Court participants instead entered a court-ordered diversionary probation with appropriate treatment and other wrap-around services while simultaneously working off their restitution via community service. The dollars earned through their community service were used to pay restitution to the victims of their crime. If they successfully completed treatment and their restitution obligation, the DA agreed to dismiss the charges and expunge the individual’s record – a benefit not otherwise available. “This program was a win-win-win. The offender receives the help they need through treatment and the ability to move forward without the burden of a criminal conviction. The victim is made financially whole.  And the community received a benefit from real, meaningful service, usually in the form of a work crew,” said DA Clarkson. “But we need proper funding to offer this type of criminal justice programming. CJC provided the money to do that in the first allocation. Now CJC changed their formula.”

The funding formula adopted by the CJC as a result of HB 3069 reduced the allocation Marion County will receive for both its deflection programs, despite LEAD’s proven, data-driven benefits. Instead, more dollars were directed to counties who merely say that they will have the ability to serve larger numbers of participants in the future. The result is a disproportionate allocation that rewards counties for aspirational projections, while reducing support for established programs.    

“It’s hard to quantify the impact of a program like LEAD and our fledgling RESTORE Court by simply counting the number of participants,” said DA Clarkson. “You can’t put a dollar figure on a parent who becomes stable and breaks the cycle of dependency and homelessness, or on the benefit of successfully righting a wrong. Helping even one person in these ways can make meaningful, lasting change that has a ripple effect throughout our community – not to mention the value it brings directly to victims.  But to fund imaginary programs that don’t yet even exist at the expense of an operational, ground-breaking, collaborative system is a missed opportunity.” 

With RESTORE Court unable to move forward, existing funding will be used to ensure the continuation of the existing LEAD program putting Marion County right back where it was before all the dollars spent on HB 4002.

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

To view the Board's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

Approve the October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Christopher Wade, DPSST No. 30403; Christmas Valley RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on November 19, 2025.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Jennifer Cameron, Vice-Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Shane Bond, DPSST No. 59946; DOC/Union County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on December 16, 2025.

B. John Deardorff, DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

C. Mark Farmer, DPSST No. 55203; Multnomah County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

D. Emily Fisk, DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

E. Jesus Gutierrez, Sr., DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

F. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

G. Erica Hurley, DPSST No. 29900; Portland Police Bureau – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

H. Bonnie Kessell, DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

I. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

J. Jonathan McNichols, DPSST No. 60995; Salem Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

K. James McQueen, DPSST No. 55471; Hillsboro Police Department – Revoke

Seven (7) to two (2) vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

L. Kathleen Williams, DPSST No. 43028; Bureau of Emergency Communications – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on August 12, 2025.

M. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

• • Anel Ceric – Non-Management Law Enforcement. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Michelle Duncan – Oregon State Sheriffs' Association. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Warren Hensman – Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police. Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective January 22, 2026.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote).

A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0120, 259-060-0135, 259-060-0136, 259-060-0300, 259-060-0310, 259-060-0320, and 259-060-0380

Related to Emergency Suspension

6. DPSST Recommendations (The following items to be ratified by one vote each)

a. Advisory Discussion of Upcoming Changes to the Basic Police Program

b. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Registration to Regional Training Courses

c. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Use of DPSST Facilities

d. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0001

     Recommended Repeal

e. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-030-0005

    Relating to the Authority of the Director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training

f. Workgroup/Rules Advisory Committee Request

    Related to Law Enforcement Officer Certification Maintenance Requirements Per OAR 259-008-0065

g. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527

h. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527/Senate Bill 300

7. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle 

8. Next Meeting Date: April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County’s Composter Recycler eight-week volunteer training course teaches residents low-waste and sustainable living information and techniques. The course, beginning Jan. 28, teaches students to reduce waste, recycle properly and minimize toxic chemicals in their homes. Course graduates volunteer a minimum of 25 hours by the end of the year, educating and inspiring members of the community through events and workshops.

The classes are held 6-8 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 28, at Waste Connections of Washington at 9411 NE 94th Ave. in Vancouver.

Training dates and topics

• Jan. 28: Volunteer Orientation
• Feb. 4: Backyard Composting and Lasagna Composting
• Feb. 11: Worm Bin Composting and Cart Composting
• Feb. 18: Bokashi and Food Recyclers
• Feb. 25: Low Waste Chef
• March 4: Green Cleaning
• March 11: Curbside Recycling Done Right
• March 18: Beyond Curbside Recycling

In addition to the weekly classroom sessions, the course includes a tour of a waste transfer station and a hands-on composting field training.

Application information can be found on the Composter Recycler webpage. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 21. The program webpage also contains more information about the program and course topics. 

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

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

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

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

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

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The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a shooting outside of a Vancouver sports bar on Jan. 3, 2026.

This individual died on 01/03/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Jones, Corey D.   Age: 43 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple gunshot wounds

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other

Place of injury: Parking lot

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Vancouver Police Department.

Portland, Ore. — On December 10, the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) sent a letter to Legacy Health requesting an urgent meeting to address the growing and deeply troubling practice of ICE bringing detained individuals to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. More than four weeks later, Legacy failed to provide a substantive response. As a result, ONA is calling on the health system to immediately sign a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to protect the rights, safety, and privacy of people in ICE custody.

The December 10 letter, addressed to Legacy Emanuel President Bahaa Wanley, outlined serious concerns raised by bedside nurses that Legacy is failing to uphold fundamental patient rights. These include patient confidentiality, patients’ ability to participate in decisions about their own care, and compliance with the Oregon Nurse Practice Act. The letter called for safeguards to protect patient rights and ensure legal compliance when ICE is present in the hospital.

“Legacy’s silence and lack of response is deeply concerning,” said Peter Starzynski, spokesperson for ONA. “When ICE activity interferes with patient care, frontline caregivers are placed in an impossible position—forced to choose between their ethical obligations and unclear or unsafe practices. Legacy has refused even the most basic step of meeting with us to address these concerns and ensure ICE is held accountable.”

In light of the recent killing of Renee Nicole Good by ICE agents Minneapolis, it is clear that ICE’s violence is escalating without any real accountability. This reality makes Legacy Health’s responsibility to act to protect patients and staff even more urgent—and further underscores the need for a formal agreement with ONA to protect patients, uphold ethical care standards, and ensure the safety of frontline caregivers.

The MOU

The proposed MOU would establish clear, enforceable standards at Legacy Emanuel, including:

• Requiring ICE and all federal law enforcement to comply with legal requirements before questioning, searching, or detaining anyone in a hospital.
• Preserving patient privacy by restricting law enforcement access to clinical spaces without proper legal authority.
• Reaffirming that law enforcement is never the medical decision-maker and may not interrupt or terminate care.
• Upholding HIPAA protections for all patients, including those in custody
• Providing patient education, interpreter access, and connections to legal and social services.
• Creating a joint labor–management committee to oversee implementation and training.
• Guaranteeing non-retaliation for nurses who advocate for patient safety, privacy, and ethical care.

You can read the full MOU here and the accompanying letter here.

“What we’re asking for are simple, commonsense healthcare practices,” Starzynski said. “Nurses and other frontline caregivers need to be able to do their jobs ethically and legally. Every patient—regardless of immigration status—deserves dignity, privacy, safe medical care, and a full understanding of their rights. Right now, those standards are not being met for people in ICE custody at Legacy Emanuel.”

ONA urges Legacy Health to immediately commit to the proposed MOU, so caregivers can provide consistent, lawful, and compassionate care to every patient who enters its facilities.

ONA’s mission is clear: we exist to protect patient privacy, uphold human dignity, and provide equitable care to every person who walks through the doors of the hospitals and clinics where we work. ICE’s targeting of immigrant communities is wrong and fundamentally inconsistent with these values. These actions—whether carried out or threatened—create fear that prevents people from going to work, moving freely in their communities, and seeking medical care when they need it most.  That fear directly undermines the core principles of being a frontline nurse, provider, or caregiver.

The more than 24,000 represented healthcare professionals of the Oregon Nurses Association are steadfast in ensuring that Oregon’s healthcare system remains a place of healing—never an extension of law enforcement—where all people, regardless of immigration status, can receive care without fear.

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

# # #

Traveling on the roads and highways of Lincoln County offer many wonderful sightseeing opportunities such as beautiful sunsets over the Pacific, ships and shops on our bay fronts, and seemingly endless forest lands to explore. However, while traveling through the community for work or play, we must also be mindful that this area is the natural habitat of several species of wildlife. It's important to be alert and aware of possible wildlife while commuting. Though it's unlikely to see a whale on the highway, you may come across deer, elk, and birds. In the unfortunate event that you or someone else is unable to avoid a collision with wildlife, the following steps are recommended:

• If you are on a State Highway, in a State Park, on the beaches, or if the animal is protected under Oregon Revised Statute (such as anything hunted or fished in Lincoln County), please contact the Oregon State Police at 541-265-5353 or dial 677 from a mobile phone.

• If you’re in the cities of Lincoln City, Newport, or Toledo; Contact the city police department: 
  • Lincoln City Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-994-3636 
  • Newport Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency – 541-574-5807 
  • Toledo Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-336-5555 

• If you’re in any other part of Lincoln County or if the animal involved is a pet or livestock; Contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777 

It is possible to transfer calls between Dispatch Centers but being put on hold multiple times can be frustrating. To avoid this, it's important to know which center to contact initially. By doing so, Law Enforcement can provide the best quality service. If there is an emergency, always call 911.

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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Date: Wed, Jan 28th, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_jan_28_volcano_song/

Music meets volcano! A multi-media presentation and rare Science on Tap performance!

Using our ears as scientific sensors, we can detect subtle signatures of poorly understood volcanic processes. Not to mention trigger our emotions, leading to compelling music.

Earth songs of volcano music and the science behind it, led by volcanologist and violinist Leif Karlstrom. Joining him:

• Todd Sickafoose (Grammy award-winning composer and bass player for Ani DiFranco),
• Idit Shner (University of Oregon saxophone professor),
• Adam Roskiewicz (Grammy nominated with The Modern Mandolin Quartet, as well as work with the Ger Mandolin Orchestra and bluegrass band Front Country), and
• Johnny Rodgers (tuned glass virtuoso). 

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

PORTLAND, Ore. - As frontline healthcare workers, we are entrusted with a fundamental responsibility: to preserve life, reduce harm, and provide care with dignity—without exception. The killing of Renee Nicole Good by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis is a devastating violation of those principles and a stark example of the unchecked harm ICE continues to inflict on our communities. Our hearts go out to the victim and her family, and we extend our deepest sympathies during this profound moment of loss.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) unequivocally condemns this senseless act of violence and demands full transparency from the Department of Homeland Security, including a thorough, independent investigation. We call for an immediate end to ICE’s operations in our communities and for meaningful oversight of an agency that has repeatedly demonstrated it cannot be trusted to police itself.

The videos emerging from Minneapolis are chilling. When state violence occurs, it is the nurses and other frontline caregivers who are called to respond to stop the bleeding, manage the trauma, and comfort families. ICE, meanwhile, operates with extraordinary power and little accountability—bringing lethal force into communities in Oregon and across the country, while evading the transparency and consequences required of other agencies or institutions.

This killing did not happen in a vacuum. ICE’s routine use of intimidation and force creates widespread fear that keeps immigrant communities from seeking medical care, delays treatment until conditions become life-threatening, and causes lasting psychological trauma. That fear directly interferes with frontline healthcare workers’ ability to carry out our professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities. A system that drives patients into hiding is not protecting public safety—it is actively endangering lives.

As frontline healthcare workers, we see the consequences of these actions every day, and this killing only deepens the harm. ICE’s tactics have pushed immigrant communities into crisis—a reality fundamentally at odds with our commitment as frontline caregivers. Immigrants are vital members of our state and our healthcare system, and they deserve the same rights and protections as everyone else. ONA stands in solidarity with immigrant communities and communities of color who are directly and indirectly harmed by ICE’s actions.

We cannot fulfill our duty to care for patients while ICE continues to operate as an unaccountable force that threatens the very communities we are sworn to protect and serve. 

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(Salem) – Miamor Hernandez Brown, age 4, went missing with her father, Jose Carmelo Hernandez Martinez and his partner, Erika Alejandra Simich from Cornelius on Dec. 30, 2025. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that Miamor may be at risk and is searching for her to assess her safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Miamor. Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of her or Martinez or Simich should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

They are believed to be in the Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Cornelius and North Portland areas.

Name: Miamor Hernandez Brown
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: May 23, 2021
Height:
Weight: 40 pounds
Hair: Black
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: They are living in a white Jeep Patriot with license Oregon license plate number 863GEF.
Washington County Sherriff’s Office Case #50-25-18325
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2073714

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

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

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Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports last night at 9:20 p.m. deputies responded to a domestic disturbance in the 29200 block of Berlin Road outside of Sweet Home.  The female caller called the Linn County 911 Center to report her spouse, later identified as James Clair Miller, 41, assaulted her.  As deputies were responding, the caller told the dispatcher she had four children with her, all under the age of 10 years old, in a vehicle, and Miller was last seen coming out of the shop holding a firearm. 

Dispatch coached the female to leave the location with the children. During their attempt to leave in a vehicle, Miller shattered the window and fired rounds in an unknown direction. The female and children walked down the long driveway where they met responding deputies.  As the initial deputy secured the family at the end of the driveway, additional shots could be heard from somewhere on the property.

Miller’s location was unknown for several minutes until he began yelling and firing more rounds in unknown directions, causing deputies to evacuate nearby residences, and set up a perimeter.  Miller continued to wander around the property and frequently fired rounds into the air as deputies, Oregon State Police Troopers, and Sweet Home Police Department attempted to locate him.  Law enforcement from multiple agencies also responded to assist with drones, as the property is in a very rural location, with a very long driveway, where terrain and structures made maintaining visual of Miller difficult.

The Linn County Regional SWAT Team responded with armored vehicles, in addition to members of Oregon State Police SWAT, to protect the public and law enforcement as they worked to locate Miller and take him into custody safely.  Miller continued to walk around the property with several guns, firing more shots in the air, as well as setting off fireworks, which often could only be seen with the use of drones. 

Miller attempted to take off from the property into the woods on an ATV, ultimately crashing and returning to the area of the residence.  Deputies and Troopers contacted Miller who was uncooperative, causing law enforcement personnel to use non-lethal force, to include sponge rounds and tasers, before taking Miller into custody on the ground.  Miller was treated by medics and transported to the Linn County Jail. 

Deputies on scene, applied for and were granted a search warrant for the property.  Thirteen firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns, were seized as well as live ammunition and spent casings that were scattered across the property.

James Clair Miller was lodged on charges of Reckless Endangering, Assault IV-Domestic (felony), Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Contempt of Court (for violating a Restraining Order) and Criminal Mischief I.  Deputies are continuing to investigate.

All law enforcement present exercised great restraint and professionalism during this very chaotic event, to take Miller into custody without using lethal force.  The ability to see Miller with drones had a direct impact on law enforcement’s ability to assess Miller’s behavior and take him into custody with the least amount of force possible.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Corvallis Police Department, Albany Police Department, Sweet Home Police Department, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sweet Home Fire District.

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Employers seeking motivated talent for today’s evolving job market are invited to connect with career-ready students and alumni during Washington State University Vancouver’s Career Fair Week, Feb. 24 – 26.

The three-day series offers targeted and all-campus recruiting opportunities, bringing employers face to face with students prepared for internships, part-time roles and full-time employment. Fairs will be held in the Firstenburg Student Commons on campus.

“Even in a slower hiring climate, employers tell us they value early connections with students who have practical skills and flexibility,” said Nicole Smith, employer engagement coordinator for the Carson College of Business. “Career Fair Week is an efficient way to meet candidates across multiple disciplines in just a few hours.”

Registration details
Registration is required and available through Handshake. Fees are $200 for for-profit organizations and $150 for nonprofit and government organizations. The fee includes a 6-foot table, two recruiter registrations, parking passes and refreshments. Discounts are available for employers registering for multiple fairs. The registration deadline is Feb. 20.

Employers new to Handshake can create an account through WSU Vancouver’s Employer Relations webpage at studentaffairs.vancouver.wsu.edu/career-services/employer-relations.

Career Fair Week schedule

1 – 4 p.m. Feb. 24
School of Engineering and Computer Science Career and Networking Fair
Recruit students in computer science, data analytics, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
Contact: encs.connections@wsu.edu

2 – 4 p.m. Feb. 25
Business Career and Internship Fair
Meet business majors across all class standings, including accounting, finance, human resources, marketing and management.
Contact: van.cb@wsu.edu

1 – 4 p.m. Feb. 26
All-Campus Career and Internship Fair
Connect with students from all majors and class standings, including those seeking internships and entry-level roles.
Contact: van.career@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.

WSU Vancouver is located on the homelands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Peoples of the Lower Columbia Valley. We acknowledge their presence here. WSU Vancouver expresses its respect towards these original and current caretakers of the region. We pledge that these relationships will be built on mutual trust and respect.

# # #

SHERMAN COUNTY, Ore. (7 Jan. 2025) – On Monday, January 5, 2026, at 4:02 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 31 in Sherman County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Honda HRV, operated by Kenneth Frank MacDonald (64) of Bradenton (FL), was traveling northbound on Hwy. 97 near Grass Valley when it left the lane of travel of an unknown reason. The Honda collided head-on with a southbound white Freightliner pulling a semi-trailer, operated by Maynor Farid Mendieta Saravia (32) of Willows (CA).   
 

The operator of the Honda (MacDonald) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Mendieta Saravia) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Sherman County Sheriff’s Office, South Sherman Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 

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

LSTA Grants Evaluation Panel

Wednesday January 14, 2026, 12:00 pm

Online

AGENDA

12:00 pm         Welcome and process review

12:05 pm         Discuss Strong Libraries LSTA Mini Grant applications

 2:00 pm          Break

 2:15 pm          Continue Discussing Applications

 3:50 pm          Wrap Up and Action Item Review

 4:00 pm          Adjourn

PRESS RELEASE

A26-31

KIDNAPPING-DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ARREST

On January 1, 2026, the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a domestic violence incident that occurred on December 31, 2025.  The incident reportedly began with a domestic dispute at a residence in the 200 block of Green Mountain Ln, Kalama.  Deputies were advised that while at a New Year's Eve gathering at this location, 23-year-old resident Hunter Scott Minton became intoxicated and belligerent.  Minton’s girlfriend and another female subject at the residence hid in a bathroom during the dispute, out of fear for their safety.

Minton’s girlfriend told deputies she attempted to leave, but Minton forcibly pulled her out of her vehicle against her will.  She was then able to get Minton to leave with her in the vehicle.  About five minutes after driving away from the residence, Minton reportedly pulled a handgun from his waistband and threatened to kill himself if she did not let him drive.  Minton allegedly threatened to harm his girlfriend if she contacted law enforcement.  Based on Minton’s intoxication and threats while armed with a firearm, the victim did not feel free to leave and felt her life was in imminent danger.

The victim then allowed Minton to drive the vehicle, and he proceeded to Woodland.  At one point, Minton reportedly exited the vehicle and made threats to return home and kill his whole family.  Deputies obtained surveillance videos from Woodland businesses, confirming the timeline reported by the victim.  One employee recalled seeing Minton behaving erratically and told deputies the victim appeared to be in distress.  The victim eventually dropped Minton off at a hotel in Vancouver.  Deputies noted the victim had visible bruises, consistent with her report.  Deputies were unable to locate Minton on January 1^st, but family members confirmed he carried a .45-caliber pistol.

On January 6, 2026, deputies located Minton at his residence on Green Mountain Ln and took him into custody.  Deputies served a search warrant and recovered a .45-caliber pistol matching the description given by the victim.

Hunter Minton was booked into Cowlitz County Jail on charges of Kidnapping 2^nd Degree, Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission 2^nd Degree, Felony Harassment, Interfering with Domestic Violence Reporting, Assault 4^th Degree, and Reckless Endangerment – all Domestic Violence charges.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

SALEM, OR — Marion County called on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to strengthen its analysis of turbidity, drinking water impacts, and community risks associated with the proposed deep drawdown of Detroit Lake.

In the letter dated January 6, 2026, the County noted that a turbidity report required by federal law has not yet been completed, despite Congress directing the Army Corps to publish it by January 4, 2026. Because that report is expected to directly inform the environmental effects of a deep drawdown, including learning from mistakes in recent deep drawdowns at nearby lakes, the County argued that the public cannot meaningfully evaluate the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) without it and urged the Corps to extend the public comment period.

“The Army Corps must complete and publish the turbidity report required by federal law,” the January 6 letter stated. It further stated that the Army Corps’ draft analysis “does not include sufficient evaluation of how turbidity from a deep drawdown at Detroit Lake will harm numerous aspects of the environment.”

The letter follows a previous letter sent on December 16, 2025, where the Marion County Board of Commissioners raised significant concerns about the SEIS for the Willamette Valley System. The Board highlighted the potential for severe turbidity and sediment impacts to drinking water systems downstream that serve more than 200,000 residents. There is also a lack of scientific evidence demonstrating that a deep drawdown at Detroit Lake would achieve its intended biological benefits instead of harming both the environment and the surrounding communities.

“Our residents depend on clean, reliable drinking water,” said Commissioner Kevin Cameron. “The Army Corp should complete the required analysis before taking on any risks that could harm our community’s drinking water.

“We’re simply asking the Corps to follow the law, finish the required work, and give residents a fair chance to review it.”

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85625896681?pwd=9aPvQlf1gUBDGzItbp9kI73Uu6UevL.1
Passcode:381523

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.2% in November

Today, the Oregon Employment Department released monthly employment and unemployment data for November 2025, after a significant delay due to the federal government shutdown.

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in November and 5.2% in September. The October unemployment rate is not available since underlying data was not collected due to the federal government shutdown that month. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.6% in November.

In November, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 1,600 jobs, following a loss of 2,000 jobs in October. November’s gains were largest in leisure and hospitality (+2,100 jobs) and health care and social assistance (+1,000 jobs). Losses were largest in government (-800 jobs) and information (-600 jobs).

Leisure and hospitality experienced an uptick in hiring recently, adding 3,900 jobs between July and November, following a stagnant period of employment from 2023 through mid-2025. Its component industry, accommodation and food services, has been particularly robust, adding 4,900 jobs since July.

Health care and social assistance continued its rapid expansion over the past several years, adding 10,900 jobs, or 3.5%, between November 2024 and November 2025.

Government employment cut 2,300 jobs between September and November. Federal government lost 800 jobs during the most recent two months as those taking early retirement incentives were recorded as dropping off payrolls in October.

The information industry cut 1,200 jobs between September and November. At 33,400 total jobs in November, it rapidly declined since reaching a peak of 37,300 jobs three years ago.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the October and November county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, Jan. 13, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for December on Thursday, Jan. 22.

####

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on January 8, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/86311642513?pwd=lNP0tjISWDkhhaP3ZalRRIW9t4DqtO.1
Passcode:061181
 

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands (CFF) will meet virtually on Wednesday, Jan. 14 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
• Budget update
• State forester hiring update
• Private Forest Accord update
• Stream mapping
• Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program (SFISH) Program update
• Board of Forestry update
• Discuss committee term expirations

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.

VANCOUVER, WA — The Historic Trust will host the Vancouver Venues & Vendors Open House on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM at the historic Red Cross Building, located at 605 Barnes Street in downtown Vancouver.

This free, come-and-go event is designed for couples, planners, and community members beginning the event-planning process. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the beautiful Red Cross Building, virtually preview four additional Historic Trust venues, and connect with trusted local wedding and event professionals — all in one afternoon.

Whether guests are newly engaged, planning a large celebration, or gathering ideas for a future event, the open house offers inspiration, resources, and direct access to experienced local vendors.

As a special incentive, attendees who sign in at the event and book their event by February 28, 2026, will receive 10% off the venue rental rate at any Historic Trust venue.

Participating vendors include:

• Missy Fant Photography
• Floral Sunshine
• Say Ciao!
• Tipsy Chicks Bartending
• Elle & Co. Events + Bar
• The WaitStaff Team, Inc.
• Bluum Coffee
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver–Portland

The first 15 attendees will also receive a wedding survival bag.

Event Details:
Location: The Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes St., Vancouver, WA 98661
Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026

Time: 12 pm - 3 pm
Free admission

For more information, please visit www.thehistorictrust.org or contact Mary McCammon, Event Facilities Manager at The Historic Trust, at y.mccammon@thehistorictrust.org">mary.mccammon@thehistorictrust.org or 360-992-1839.

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College is delivering a big assist to men’s health.

The Cascade Campus gym (705 N. Killingsworth St.) will host the annual Aaron Bell Sr. Black Men’s Health Awareness Day from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17. The event honors the legacy of Aaron Bell Sr., a PCC men’s basketball assistant coach who passed away in 2019 due to a heart-related illness. It promotes health and wellness for men, especially Black men, who have higher death rates from preventable and chronic illnesses than other racial groups.

“This event is about honoring Aaron and saving lives,” said PCC Athletics Manager Tyrone White, a longtime friend of Bell. “Black men experience higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and hypertension, and we want people to know there are resources available and professionals who want to help.”

In his memory, PCC Athletics and community partners continue to host the annual awareness day to encourage preventive care, education and open conversations about health, particularly for Black men, who face disproportionate health risks nationwide.

According to event sponsor Multnomah County Health, Portland’s county health rankings show that Black men have an eight-year shorter life expectancy than white men and up to a 15-year discrepancy from that of Hispanic or Asian men.

Bell was friends with both PCC Director of Athletics Tony Broadous and White prior to joining PCC's men's basketball team in the 2012–13 season.  He became known not only for his work on the court but also for his mentorship, encouragement and compassion for students and athletes.

“Aaron Bell was a gentle giant,” White said. “He was 6-foot-5 and incredible on and off the court. He always fought for the underdog and encouraged people to believe in themselves.”

PCC's awareness day is being presented in partnership with OHSU, Multnomah County REACH and the Multnomah County Health Department. Together with the Urban League of Portland and community providers North By Northeast Health Clinic, Supporting Our Society (SOS) and Men in Recovery, a wide range of free health screenings, education and resources will be offered including:

• Ask a doctor — no health question is off-limits

• Blood pressure and blood sugar screenings

• Prostate cancer education

• Health clinic referrals and resources

• Gun locks, Narcan and addiction support information

• Tobacco quit kits

• Sign-ups for Narcan and mental health first aid training

• Active People Healthy Multnomah walking programs

• Healthy African heritage recipes

• Body and mind wellness tips

While the event centers on Black men’s health, all are welcome and encouraged to attend as it is free and open to all. 

“We want people to feel comfortable asking questions and taking steps toward better health,” White said. “This is about access, education and community.”

The health awareness event will coincide with a Portland Panthers basketball doubleheader at the Cascade Campus gym. The men’s basketball team will tip off at 2 p.m., followed by the women’s game at 4 p.m., offering attendees an opportunity to support PCC athletics while prioritizing wellness. 

For more information about PCC Athletics, visit panthers.pcc.edu

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.

###

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for January 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for February 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Gresham, Ore.— On Sunday afternoon, Gresham police arrested 56-year-old Eric Stinson on a warrant for sexual abuse, sodomy, and attempted sodomy.  Stinson is the Director of the Northwest Gymnastics Training Center in Gresham.  His arrest comes after multiple former Northwest Gymnastics Training Center athletes reported experiencing inappropriate sexual behavior by Stinson.   Stinson was booked at the Multnomah County Detention Center.  Anyone with information about Stinson’s behavior is asked to contact Detective Tim Taaca at Timothy.Taaca@GreshamOregon.gov. 

Any athlete who has experienced abuse or misconduct by a coach, trainer, or other athletic official is encouraged to report their concerns to law enforcement and the US Center for SafeSport.  The US Center for SafeSport can be reached at 833-5US-SAFE (833-587-7233) or https://uscenterforsafesport.org.

EUGENE, Ore.— The former owner of Zadeh Kicks LLC, a now-defunct Oregon corporation that sold limited edition and collectible sneakers online, was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a vast fraud conspiracy that cost customers more than $65 million in unfulfilled orders and defrauded financial institutions out of more than $15 million.

Michael Malekzadeh, 42, a Eugene resident, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit more than $15 million in assets. Restitution will be determined at a later date.

“This million-dollar fraud was fueled by the defendant’s insatiable greed and wreaked havoc on the lives of his victims and their families—delaying home purchases, retirements, and engagements,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Michael Malekzadeh fed his lavish lifestyle by cheating his customers, collectors, and investors out of millions and defrauding banks. The sentence imposed today reflects the seriousness of these crimes and should serve as warning to anyone contemplating fraud as a get-rich-quick scheme.”

“While the defendant lived in luxury, he took money from kids and adults for goods he was never going to deliver,” said Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Shark. “In this case, part of the cost of his crimes are the unfulfilled desires of individuals who trusted him with their money. It is a good reminder that when transactions require us to rely on those who we do business with; it is important to do whatever we can to also verify they can deliver what they promise. Investigating fraud and deception in our communities remains an FBI priority.”

“The devastating effects of financial crime are real, as Mr. Malekzadeh’s greed harmed many lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Carrie Nordyke, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Seattle Field Office. “The consequences for financial crime are equally as real however, as shown in Mr. Malekzadeh’s sentencing. IRS-CI is committed to protecting our communities from financial fraudsters.”   

According to court documents, Malekzadeh started his business in 2013 by purchasing limited edition and collectible sneakers to resell online. Beginning as early as January 2020, Zadeh Kicks began offering preorders of sneakers before their public release dates, allowing Malekzadeh to collect money upfront before fulfilling orders. Malekzadeh advertised, sold, and collected payments from customers for preorders knowing he could not satisfy all orders placed.  By April 2022, Malekzadeh owed customers more than $65 million in undelivered sneakers.   

Beyond defrauding his customer base, Malekzadeh conspired to provide false and altered financial information to numerous financial institutions—including providing altered bank statements—on more than 15 bank loan applications. All told, Malekzadeh and his co-conspirator received more than $15 million in loans from these applications.

During the investigation, agents seized millions of dollars in cash and luxury goods that Malekzadeh acquired with the proceeds of his fraud, including luxury watches, jewelry, and hundreds of handbags. Additionally, almost $7.5 million was seized from the sale of Malekzadeh’s residence in Eugene, his watches, and luxury cars manufactured by Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche.

On July 29, 2022, Malekzadeh was charged by criminal information with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and money laundering. On March 20, 2025, he pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

As part of their plea agreements, Malekzadeh and his co-conspirator agreed to pay restitution in full to their victims. A restitution hearing is currently set for March 31, 2026.

This case was investigated by the FBI, IRS-CI, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Oregon Intellectual Property Task Force. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture and restitution proceedings are being handled by the United States Attorney’s Office’s Asset Recovery Unit.

# # #

Households in nine additional Oregon counties — Baker, Crook, Deschutes, Jackson, Josephine, Malheur, Morrow, Umatilla and Wasco — now have more time to report lost or spoiled food purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to recent storms and power outages.

If you live in one of these counties and lost food bought with SNAP benefits because of recent storms or power outages, you may be eligible for replacement benefits. 

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the reporting deadline to 30 days for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to power outages that occurred on Dec. 17, 2025. Households in the counties listed below have until Jan. 16, 2026, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Baker

• Benton

• Clackamas

• Clatsop

• Columbia

• Coos

• Crook

• Deschutes

• Douglas

• Hood River

• Jackson

• Jefferson

• Josephine

• Klamath

• Lane

• Lincoln

• Linn

• Malheur

• Marion

• Morrow

• Multnomah

• Polk

• Tillamook

• Umatilla

• Wallowa

• Wasco

• Washington

• Yamhill

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies. You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

If your food was lost because of the storms or power outages, you can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Calling 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome

• Filling out a request form and emailing it to egon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov">oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov

• Visiting a local ODHS office

• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)

• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household's normal monthly SNAP benefit.

Resources to help meet basic needs:

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org

• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.

• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Jan. 16, 2026.
After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports today, January 6, 2026 at 12:44 p.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to the Albany Police Department at 2600 Pacific Blvd to investigate a male with a gunshot wound. Albany Police Department employees discovered a male slumped over near their building and requested assistance due to an unrelated high priority call demanding significant staffing needs.

Deputies arrived on scene and took over the investigation from the initial responding Albany Police Department Officers. Deputies located a male sitting against the building with a single self-inflicted gunshot wound. Deputies continue to investigate the incident, locate associates and family, and follow up on information. For this reason, the name of the deceased will not be released at this time.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Albany Police Department, Linn County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Albany Fire Department.

UPDATE: An additional photo is available for media use, showing the car that was recovered.

--

Thanks to continued work on the case, an arrest has been made in a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed a Tigard woman more than two years ago.

Maria Negrete, 45, was hit by a car on SW Hall Boulevard just north of Pfaffle Street on the evening of September 18, 2023. She was rushed to the hospital and died two days later. The driver who hit her never stopped.

In the weeks and months that followed, investigators continued to follow up on leads, but key pieces of information remained missing.

Roughly a year later, in October 2024, a substantial tip came in that led investigators to the car that was involved. The car was missing its windshield and had damage consistent with the crash. A search warrant was served, and investigators impounded the car to look for and process additional evidence.

While tests were being done, a second substantial tip was received in April 2025 that corroborated evidence about who was driving the car at the time of the deadly crash. Investigators continued to conduct interviews and gather information, and trace evidence was sent to the Oregon State Crime lab. In December 2025, investigators were notified that the examination of trace evidence confirmed a link between Ms. Negrete and the car that hit her.

On December 30, 2025, a Washington County Grand Jury heard the evidence in the case. They indicted Ashley Wolff, age 37 of Tigard, as the driver who hit and killed Ms. Negrete. Ms. Wolff was arrested on December 31, 2025, on one count of failing to perform the duties of a driver to an injured person.

“I am thankful for the people who came forward with critical information in this case,” said Detective Kaci Mace, who led the investigation. “Without their help and the determination of our partners at the crime lab and the District Attorney’s office, we may not have been able to provide answers for Ms. Negrete’s family.”

The original news releases from 2023 are available here and here.

(Media partners: Detective Mace is available for interviews at 2:45pm today. Please contact the PIO to RSVP.)

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On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the Albany Police Department was involved in an officer involved shooting in the 1300 block of Twins Lane NW, Albany, Oregon.  At approximately 10:48 AM, Officers responded to a Domestic Disturbance involving a weapon and upon arrival encountered an individual with a knife. 

Two officers on scene discharged their firearms, striking the subject who had the knife. Officers immediately rendered medical aid until emergency personnel arrived. The subject was transported to an area hospital for treatment and condition is unknown.

No officers were injured during the incident. The other individual in the home was not injured.  The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with department policy and state law. The Benton County Major Crimes Team is conducting an independent investigation, and the Albany Police Department is fully cooperating.

During the initial police response, both North Albany Middle School and North Albany Elementary School were placed in lockdown.  The lockdown was lifted after the scene was secure, about 20 minutes later.

Further details and names of the officers involved will be released as they become available by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Benton County District Attorney Office. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at 541-753-8477.

Experienced Higher Education Leader to Oversee Student Services

VANCOUVER, Wash.— Clark College named Dr. Sue Orchard, PsyD, to serve as its Vice President of Student Affairs. Dr. Orchard brings more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience to the college in student services, enrollment management, and holistic student support in higher education. She started on Jan. 5, 2026, at the start of the college’s winter term.

In the role of Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Orchard will lead the strategic vision for a broad range of student programs and services, including enrollment, career services, financial aid, athletics, international programs, disability support, the Veterans Center of Excellence, and the Counseling & Health Center, among others. Dr. Orchard will also serve on the college’s Executive Cabinet, a leadership team led by Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards.

“I'm honored to join Clark College and work alongside such a dedicated community,” said Dr. Orchard. “I believe that fostering trust, connection, and joy is essential to building a culture of continuous improvement, and I look forward to partnering across the college to ensure every student feels supported and empowered to achieve their goals.”

Most recently, Dr. Orchard served as Vice President of Student Services at Lower Columbia College in Longview, Wash., for nine years, where she led all student services departments and served on the president’s executive leadership team. During her tenure, she co-led the collegewide Guided Pathways implementation, strengthened advising and onboarding practices, advanced strategic enrollment management efforts, and championed equity-focused student support initiatives. 

Prior to Lower Columbia College, Dr. Orchard has also served as the Dean of Counseling & Student Support Services for Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Ore.; Associate Director for Student Access at Oregon Health & Science University; Training Director for University of Puget Sound; and a Staff Psychologist for the University of Oregon.

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Orchard to Clark College. She brings an exceptional depth of experience in student affairs. Her collaborative leadership style and strategic vision make her an outstanding fit for this role and for our college community,” said Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards.

Throughout her career, Dr. Orchard has been recognized for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to creating systems that center on students’ academic, personal, and career success. In addition to her executive leadership experience, she has served in statewide leadership roles with the Washington State Student Services Commission, including as president, and has contributed to many task forces and advisory groups focused on student success and equity.

Dr. Orchard holds a Doctor of Psychology in clinical psychology from Pacific University, a Master of Science in mental health counseling from Eastern Washington University, and bachelor’s degrees in organizational communication and psychology, also from Eastern Washington University.

Dr. Orchard was hired after a nationwide search that included extensive interviews with a hiring committee, college leadership, and an open forum with the college community. She succeeds Dr. Mark Wahlers, who is retiring after serving as Interim Vice President of Student Affairs for the past year.

About Clark College 

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

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

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SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College will host “Thinking Machines: Art, Authorship, and the Future in the Age of AI,” a panel conversation from noon to 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17 at the North View Gallery, Sylvania Campus (12000 S.W. 49th Avenue). 

The event is organized alongside interdisciplinary artist Hannah Newman’s exhibition, “Neural-Lithic Harvests,” on display through Jan. 27. This discussion is free and open to the public. The art gallery is located in Room 214 of the Communication Technology (CT) Building.

The panel brings together artists and scholars to examine how advancing AI tools, especially image/video generators and large language models, are reshaping creative practice, authorship and education. Participants include Newman, artist Myra Lilith Day, poet Megan Savage, artist David Torres, philosopher Matt Stockton and humanities professor Jo McLendon.

The conversation probes the tension between human agency and machine creation amid intensifying real-world debates about who benefits from generative AI and who bears the costs. U.S. courts are entering a pivotal year in lawsuits that question whether training AI on copyrighted books, images, and journalism is “fair use,” with outcomes that could redefine creative rights and compensation. 

At the same time, recent headlines have underscored how image-generation tools can be misused to create nonconsensual “nudification” and sexualized deepfakes, raising urgent questions about consent, safety, and accountability online.

Panelists will also address the environmental footprint of AI systems, including the growing energy and water demands of data centers powering today’s models, and what responsible use can look like in the arts and humanities. 

PCC is home to three art galleries: the North View Gallery, the Paragon Arts Gallery and the Helzer Gallery, each located on comprehensive campus locations in Portland – Sylvania, Cascade and Rock Creek, respectively. The Art Galleries are dedicated to supporting education and community building through the arts.



For more information, visit the PCC art galleries webpage: pcc.edu/galleries/.

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

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

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

The previous version of this press release contained an error in one of the links. Please refer to this release for the correct link.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

• Online:
  • https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

• Virtual hearing
  January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

###

The Battle Ground City Council welcomed new and returning members and selected its Mayor and Deputy Mayor during its first meeting of 2026, held on January 5.

Councilmembers who took their ceremonial oaths of office at the meeting include:

• Troy McCoy, re-elected to Position No. 1, serving his second consecutive term in office.
• Jeanie Kuypers, elected to Position No. 4, serving her first elected term in office following her appointment to fill a vacancy in February 2025.
• Aimee Vaile, elected to Position No. 5, serving her first term in office.
• Brian Munson, elected to Position No. 6, serving his second non-consecutive term in office after serving in Position No. 1 from 2018 – 2021.

These members join sitting councilmembers Shane Bowman (Position No. 2), Victoria Ferrer (Position No. 3), and Eric Overholser (Position No. 7).

During the meeting, the council selected Eric Overholser to serve a two-year term as Mayor and Aimee Vaile to serve as Deputy Mayor. In addition to holding the same authority and responsibilities as all councilmembers, the Mayor presides over council meetings and serves as the ceremonial representative of the council. The Deputy Mayor fulfills these duties in the Mayor’s absence.

Battle Ground councilmembers are elected at large by voters to serve four-year terms. The City Council is responsible for the legislative functions of the city, including establishing policy, adopting ordinances, approving budget appropriations, and setting the overall vision for the community.

Under the city’s Council-Manager form of government, the City Council appoints a City Manager to implement council policies, provide professional guidance, and oversee the city’s day-to-day administrative operations.

To learn more about the Battle Ground City Council, visit www.cityofbg.org/council.

(Photo Description:  BG Council Swearing In - Pictured from left to right, Deputy Mayor Aimee Vaile, Councilmembers Troy McCoy, Jeanie Kuypers, and Brian Munson)

From No-Buy January to subscription audits, credit union offers realistic ways to cut spending and pay down balances

PORTLAND, Ore. – Americans racked up an average of $1,223 in holiday debt this year, according to LendingTree’s Holiday Debt Survey released on December 22. The survey also found 41% of Americans are still paying off holiday debt from 2024.

“January is an ideal time to take a clear-eyed look at your spending and build a plan that’s sustainable,” says Amber Kelly, Oregon City branch manager at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Small changes — like reducing impulse buys and trimming recurring expenses — can free up cash quickly and help people make measurable progress on debt.”

To help people in Oregon and southwest Washington start 2026 on stronger financial footing, OnPoint recommends these practical post-holiday reset strategies:

• Try a “No-Buy January” reset. Instead of vague belt-tightening, commit to 30 days without non-essentials. This trend gained traction online in 2025 as a quick way to reset habits and free up cash for debt payoff.
• Do a digital detox. Unfollow shopping accounts on social media and avoid online shopping platforms and email promo lists. Research shows reducing exposure to ads can significantly lower impulse spending.
• Scrub your subscriptions. January is a great month to cancel or pause unused subscriptions (streaming, apps, meal kits). One popular challenge is to tally up all auto-renewals, then redirect those monthly savings toward debt repayment.
• Leverage consolidation tools — with a plan. Consider balance transfer credit cards or personal loans to lower interest rates — paired with a clear payoff timeline and monthly payment target to avoid extending the debt. Consumers who want additional guidance can also consider building a simple debt-payoff roadmap (listing balances, interest rates, and minimum payments) and setting up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates and late fees.
• Explore relief options through your bank or credit union. Many financial institutions offer short-term tools to help members manage post-holiday strain, such as payment deferrals, hardship programs, or financial counseling. OnPoint’s Winter Skip Pay program allows eligible members to skip a qualifying loan payment in January, and members can also access personalized financial counseling through the credit union’s GreenPath Financial Wellness partnership.

The start of a new year offers an opportunity to reassess financial habits and create a plan that supports long-term stability. By identifying opportunities to cut costs, using available tools responsibly, and partnering with a credit union that prioritizes member well-being, consumers can take practical steps toward paying down debt. Learn more about financial resources and support available through OnPoint.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 633,000 members and with assets of $9.53 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com.

REMINDER: Virtual media availability today on West Coast Health Alliance decision to continue endorsing AAP-recommended immunization schedule 

Portland, OR – REACH Community Development (REACH) is pleased to announce that Madison Moskowitz has joined the organization as Government Relations Manager. In this role, Madison will engage with state, local, and federal offices to advance REACH’s mission, advocating for policies and resources that expand access to affordable housing, strengthen communities, and help residents thrive.

A fifth-generation Oregonian, Madison was born and raised in Northeast Portland. She brings extensive experience in federal policy, most recently serving as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden’s Domestic Policy Director in 2025. From 2021 to 2025, she served as the Senator’s Economic Policy Advisor, leading efforts on housing, homelessness, small business, and real estate policy. Madison began her career in public service after graduating summa cum laude from the University of Oregon in 2017 and joining Senator Wyden’s Washington, D.C. office as a staff assistant.

“Madison’s expertise in policy and advocacy, combined with her deep roots in Oregon, make her an incredible addition to REACH,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of REACH. “Her work will focus on advancing our mission, securing vital resources, and shaping policies that benefit the residents and communities we serve.”

“I am excited to return home to Portland and put my experience to work advancing REACH’s crucial mission,” said Madison Moskowitz. “I look forward to collaborating with staff, residents, and partners to expand affordable housing opportunities and create thriving communities throughout the region.”

Madison joins REACH at a pivotal time as the organization continues to expand its affordable housing initiatives and strengthen its commitment to equitable, community-driven development.

###

About REACH Community Development

REACH’s mission is to create opportunities for all people to thrive by developing and promoting equitable access to quality, affordable homes, supportive services, and community. Since 1982, REACH has built innovative and affordable housing serving lower-income families and individuals in the Portland metropolitan region. More information about REACH and its programs is available at http://reachcdc.org.

Salem, OR – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 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 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
January 16, 2026
Virtual
Anne-Marie Deitering, Chair
Agenda

9:00 a.m. Approval of the Minutes – October 24, 2025 Meeting Deitering
9:05 Public Comment
9:10 Report of the Board Chair and Members Deitering
9:20 Report of the State Librarian Cornelisen
9:50 Budget Report Cornelisen
10:00 Key Performance Measures Review Cornelisen
10:10 Quarterly Strategic Plan Report Cornelisen
10:20 Quarterly Statistics Cornelisen
10:30 Break
10:45 Government Services Advisory Council Bylaws Bruton
10:50 Advisory Council Membership Nielsen, Robinson
10:55 Tribal Relations Update Nielsen
11:20 Volunteer Update Henderson
11:40 Executive Director Evaluation Process Cornelisen
11:50 Board Logistics Deitering
11:55 Q & A Deitering
Noon Adjournment Deitering

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Sammuel Hawkins
Outreach & Public Programs Manager
Clark County Historical Museum
outreach@cchmuseum.org
360-605-1126

Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM | Presentation begins at 7:00 PM
Location: Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
Sponsors: Humanities Washington, Vancouver NAACP, Historic Preservation Commission

CCHM Speaker Series Presents: How America Talks (Differently) About Slavery

The Clark County Historical Museum is proud to present the next installment of its Speaker Series, How America Talks (Differently) About Slavery, on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Clark County Historical Museum.

Since colonial times, religious and political divides have shaped how Americans discuss and interpret the history of slavery. From The New York Times’ 1619 Project to the Trump administration’s 1776 Report, competing visions of race and slavery reflect long-standing tensions between critiquing and celebrating America’s past.

In this timely and thought-provoking talk, attendees will explore the ongoing debates surrounding the history of slavery and how these conversations continue to influence education, politics, religion, and culture. The presentation will examine how struggles over historical memory extend beyond the classroom into the public sphere, revealing the central role these debates play in America’s fractured civic life and national identity.

The evening will feature guest speaker R. Charles Weller, PhD, Associate Professor of History (Career) at Washington State University and Senior Research Fellow at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. Dr. Weller’s work focuses on religious-cultural identity and relations in Western-Asian and world history. He has published extensively in both English and Kazakh and is currently working on a multi-volume study examining how Jewish, Christian, and Islamic sacred law traditions have shaped American legal heritage. Dr. Weller resides in Redmond, Washington.

Admission to this program is free and open to the public. However, space is limited, and advance registration is required to ensure a seat. Registration is available at cchmuseum.org.

This program is made possible with generous support from Humanities Washington, the Vancouver NAACP Branch 1139 - B, and the Historic Preservation Commission.

About the Clark County Historical Society & Museum

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

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center is hosting free weekly wildlife- and water-friendly garden workshops – with an emphasis on Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge. Each week, a range of tribal members and organizations will present on practices that focus on protecting wildlife and watershed health from an Indigenous perspective. Workshops will be held virtually Thursdays, Jan. 8-Feb. 19, noon-1 p.m. Learn more about the workshops at https://bit.ly/ELCgardenseries2026.

The workshop topics include:

• Jan. 8 – Indigenous perspectives
• Jan. 15 – Landscape and first foods
• Jan. 22 – Medicinal plants
• Jan. 29 – Introduction to Indigenous Knowledge and Traditional Ecological Knowledge and how they are used to make tribal resource management decisions
• Feb. 5 – Presentation by Ecotrust
• Feb. 12 – Reconstructing Willamette Valley environments
• Feb. 19 – Indigenous partnerships and restoration

For questions, email michelle.scholz@clackamas.edu. The workshop series is sponsored by Clackamas County Water Environment Services and in partnership with Clackamas River Basin Council, Clackamas River Water Providers, Oak Lodge Water Services, Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District, Tryon Creek Council and Greater Oregon City Watershed Council.

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year, thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue herons, cedar waxwings and mergansers. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit CCC's Environmental Learning Center webpage.

-30-

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. Two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in each of the 50 liters sampled on December 30 and December 31, 2025. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on December 29, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

Voters will have an opportunity to hear information about Battle Ground Public Schools' replacement educational programs and operations levy on the ballot for Feb. 10. A public presentation will cover information about the levy (Proposition 10) and give voters a chance to ask questions.

Presentation details

When: Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 6 p.m. 

Where: Battle Ground High School media center (300 W Main St., Battle Ground, WA)

Childcare will be available.

Ballots will be mailed by Jan. 23 for the Feb. 10 election.

If approved, the levy would support programs that help give students skills and knowledge for today's economy so that they leave school prepared for a wide range of options, including joining the workforce or military, getting a technical certification or going to college. Levy dollars would help maintain the current level of career and technical education classes and programs, as well as classes that help students prepare if they are going to college. Levy funds also would be used to provide curricula that are up to date and address the knowledge and skills that students need to enter the workforce. In addition, a replacement levy would fund student safety, smaller class sizes, special education, teachers, nursing, mental health support and sports/extracurricular activities. 

Battle Ground is now the only school district in Southwest Washington without an educational programs and operations levy.  If a replacement is approved, tax collection would begin in 2027 and continue through 2030. All registered voters who live in the district are eligible to cast a ballot.

More information is available on the district website.

Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  You must register by April 1^st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.

Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.  This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.  “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org.

For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org

MEDFORD, Ore. - A new policy at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center (AARMC) is leaving hospital units short staffed and putting patients at risk as managers turn away nurses who are ready to work. In early December, Asante chief nursing officer (CNO) Julie Bowman and hospital administration began requiring nurses to sign away their rights to overtime or incentive pay when doing extra work to cover the hospital’s staffing shortages. 

As a result, dozens of nursing shifts are going unfilled every day—leading to real impacts for patients and the community. Over the holidays, Asante’s emergency department and neonatal intensive care unit were short significant numbers of staff and the IMCU/critical care unit was forced to close due to staffing shortages—requiring vulnerable patients to be relocated to other units.  

Asante’s contract with nurses outlines overtime and incentive compensation for nurses who volunteer for extra shifts to fill staffing shortages. However, Asante is now requiring registered nurses to sign a waiver giving up their legal and contractual rights to overtime and incentive pay before allowing nurses to fill critical vacancies.  

“Nurses are willing to sacrifice our personal time to be there for patients and families and fill the gaps in Asante’s schedule,” said Fred Katz, RN, ONA bargaining unit chair at Rogue Regional. “But we expect Asante to keep its word to healthcare workers who are going above and beyond. Asante needs to honor the contract incentives it agreed to for nurses willing to work extra shifts and ultimately hire more nurses so we can give the community the care it expects.” 

Requiring nurses to forfeit their rights goes against the hospital’s contract and raises serious moral questions about its commitment to safe staffing and patient safety. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has filed a grievance, noting that nurse managers are knowingly violating agreed upon staffing plans. The grievance calls upon Asante to drop all practices and policies that create barriers to safe patient care and violate the nurse staffing law.

“The incentives were developed to encourage workers to fill in holes in the schedule ahead of time to assure safe staffing. In the last contract negotiations, ONA agreed to reduce incentives given some improvements in staffing post-Covid. Now, the hospital is making every effort to break their contractual obligation, even when staffing ratios are falling below the levels defined in the safe staffing law. Nurses should not be forced to accept unsafe staffing conditions or assignments in order to maintain a healthy profit margin for the hospital," said Katz. 

“Nurses will not forgo the hard fought for and earned benefits outlined in their contract. The hospital attorney can claim to interpret the law but nurses know their contract. We know what the hospital has agreed to, just like we know the verbiage of the staffing law. We do not leave these things to interpretation for profit taking as the hospital’s administration and lawyer has done repeatedly."

Local emergency room nurses are circulating a petition to Asante leadership highlighting their concerns about unsafe staffing in the ER and the effects of forcing workers to forfeit their rights to agreed-upon pay. The petition says in part:

“We are deeply concerned that staffing vacancies are being intentionally left open despite qualified staff offering to cover, despite our patient volumes being as high as they’ve ever been. We are also concerned that Asante is choosing not to hire nurses and emergency technician for positions that are open because of turnover, creating shadow vacancies that result in more open shifts ... We strongly urge leadership to address this issue promptly to mitigate patient safety risk” 

Nurses are concerned because short staffing puts patients at greater risk of harm, results in longer wait times and increases the chance of missed care along with accelerating healthcare provider burnout and turnover. 

If Asante continues refusing to fill vacancies with willing nurses, it will continue violating hospital staffing plans and incurring financial penalties. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has repeatedly investigated Asante for staffing violations and found 125 staffing law violations and counting since June 5, 2025. OHA has proposed fining ARRMC more than $34,000 for staffing law violations that occurred in June 2025 alone. OHA is expted to assess additional penalties as it completes its work on complaints from July to the present.  

ONA represents more than 1200 registered nurses working at ARRMC. It is the only critical access hospital for hundreds of miles and serves rural communities from the South Coast to Northern California. In early December, Asante announced it was turning Ashland Community Hospital into a satellite campus and eliminating inpatient admissions and the birth center. The change will force more patients to travel to Medford for care and increase the strain on the current workforce. Asante says the changes are needed to ensure financial stability, but in 2024 the hospital made more than $64 million. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                  Contact: Jason Malloy

                                                                                                 541-574-3348

Incident: Introducing MyPD Connect: Easily report crimes online.

Location: City of Newport

Date/Time: January 6, 2026 / 8:00am

Today, Newport Police Department proudly announces the launch of MyPDConnect, a cutting-edge online reporting platform designed to allow you to report low-level crimes online right from your phone, tablet or desktop!

MyPDConnect empowers victims of crime to quickly and easily report crimes directly to local law enforcement without having to wait for an officer response or spend unnecessary time calling dispatch.

Key Features of MyPDConnect:

•Report Crime Easily: Report low-level crimes such as Damaged Property, Theft, Graffiti, Shoplifting and other crimes right from your mobile device, tablet or desktop.  A robust list of accepted online report types exist on the website.

•Upload Unlimited Pictures, Videos and Documents: An unlimited number of pictures, videos and documents can be uploaded with each report to easily provide information to law enforcement.

•Multi-Language Support: Submit the report one of the available languages such as English, Spanish, French, German, Korean and Chinese. Additional languages available!

•Instant Notification: Receive text and e-mail updates when your report has been processed and completed.

The Newport Police Department is eager to provide additional ways for the community to connect easily with our department to report crime and receive faster service.

You may visit https://newportpd.mypdconnect.com/index.html?lang=en to report a crime at any time.

Information Released By: Lieutenant Gainer, 541-574-3348

Hello, 

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is celebrating 10 years of its Winter Ski & Snowboard Series with Mt. Hood Meadows and the Meadows Learning Center. The eight-week program, launching tomorrow, January 7, removes financial barriers for blind and visually impaired athletes by covering instruction, equipment, lift passes, and transportation, supporting 300+ athletes over the past decade with 30+ participants each season.

Supporting 2025 b-roll and photography are available here, and outlets interested in on-site coverage or interviews may contact me directly.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NWABA Celebrates 10 Years of Its Winter Sports Series with Mt. Hood Meadows, Empowering Blind and Visually Impaired Athletes

Vancouver, Washington— January 6, 2026 — Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) proudly celebrates a major milestone this winter: 10 years of providing adaptive ski and snowboard opportunities for children, youth, and adults who are blind or visually impaired through its annual Winter Sports Series in partnership with Mt. Hood Meadows and its Meadows Learning Center.

NWABA’s eight-week Winter Ski & Snowboard Series officially kicks off on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort. Open to athletes of all ages and abilities, the program removes financial barriers by covering the full cost of instruction, equipment rentals, lift passes, and transportation, eliminating expenses that can exceed $600 per participant each season. Athletes of all experience levels are supported, from beginners to advanced riders, through one-on-one support from Mt. Hood Meadows specially trained instructors equipped with communication tools such as in-helmet two-way radios that promote independence while ensuring safety.

“We are incredibly grateful for the community, partners, and athletes who have made the past ten years possible,” said Billy Henry, NWABA Founder and President. “Living near the mountains gives our athletes the opportunity to experience the thrill of winter sports, something that has a lasting impact on their confidence and independence.”

As part of its continued growth, NWABA serves athletes in Idaho by partnering with Boise Adapted Snowsport Education (BASE) to offer skiing and snowboarding at Bogus Basin Ski Resort, extending its impact beyond Oregon and Washington.

Over the past ten years, NWABA’s Winter Sports Series has supported more than 300 blind and visually impaired athletes, with over 30 athletes hitting the slopes each season, proving that adventure belongs to everyone.

To learn more about NWABA’s winter programming or find an event near you, visit www.nwaba.org and follow NWABA as the season transitions into spring with tandem biking, hiking, and more.

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About NWABA

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