RELEASE DATE:               Oct. 25, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-44027
 

Gresham, Ore.— Detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of adult entertainment club in the Rockwood Neighborhood.

Officers with Gresham Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 17500 block of SE Stark St., before 3 a.m.  The victim was driven by private vehicle to an area hospital as police were responding. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Officers responded to area of the shooting and to the hospital. When officers arrived, they found evidence of gunfire in the parking lot of an adult entertainment club. The suspect/s fled the scene prior to their arrival.

This is the second shooting in the 17500 block of SE Stark St. this month. Officers responded to a shooting in this area on Oct. 13, just after midnight. In that case, a vehicle and a business was damaged, but no gunshot victims were reported.

Gresham Police detectives are investigating the shooting.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2317 and reference case #25-44027.

###30###

Dr. William “Terry” Brown, Clark’s Vice President of Instruction, attributes the college’s continued growth trajectory to dedicated faculty, staff, and administrators. They provide students with a high-quality educational experience, and who listen and respond with initiatives based on what the community needs and wants. 

Dr. Brown said, “This year marks an exciting milestone as we launch new programs in surgical technology and advanced manufacturing and welcome a full Bachelor of Computer Science cohort. Our mission is clear: to prepare students for the in-demand jobs of today’s and tomorrow’s workforce and for full participation in the growth and wellbeing of our communities in Clark County and beyond. Clark College is on the move!” 

About Washington SBCTC 
The Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) makes higher education accessible and affordable by advocating, coordinating, and directing Washington state’s system of 34 public community and technical colleges. SBCTC collectively serves over 262,000 students each year, which makes it the largest system of public higher education in Washington. They serve over 50% of students of color. They are accessible, affordable, and connected to K-12 schools, universities, and employers.

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher educationand serves over 8,500 students per term. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. 

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

####

PORTLAND, Ore.— The owner and operator of La Popular, a money service business with locations in Oregon and Washington, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to launder drug trafficking proceeds.

Brenda Lili Barrera Orantes, 40, a Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

According to court documents, Barerra Orantes operated La Popular stores in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Woodburn, Odell and Canby, Oregon, as well as in Vancouver, Washington. From August 1, 2024, through November 1, 2024, La Popular stores sent over $4.2 million dollars in wire transfers to places in Mexico. During this same time period, Barrera Orantes and other co-conspirators accepted $49,500 in cash represented as drug proceeds and laundered the funds through La Popular stores. Barrera Orantes charged a ten percent commission to help launder the money. Barrera Orantes admitted that when she wired these funds she used false sender information, structured wire transfers into smaller amounts, and used different La Popular stores to help conceal the drug proceeds.  

On April 16, 2025, investigators executed federal search warrants at Barrera Orantes’ Beaverton residence and three La Popular stores in Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Vancouver and arrested Barrera Orantes. During the warrants, agents seized $316,542 in cash, a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, jewelry, and high-end clothing.

On May 13, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 23-count indictment charging Barrera Orantes with money laundering and conspiracy, failure to file a currency transaction report, and failure to file a suspicious activity report.

Barrera Orantes pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. She also agreed to forfeit her Beaverton residence and all the seized property involved in her money laundering offense.

Barrera Orantes faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced on January 21, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team. It is being prosecuted by Christopher L. Cardani and Julia Jarrett, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— Temika Gardner, 40, of Portland, made her first appearance in federal court today after being charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on October 23, 2025, Gardner was near the vehicle of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Deportation Officers after they made a lawful arrest. After an escape attempt, officers were able to gain control of the arrestee. As they were escorting the arrestee back, Gardner placed her hands on officers multiple times to impede their movement. Gardner struck one officer in the face, grabbing ahold of his face covering and throwing it to the ground. She swung at a second officer at least two times, knocking off his sunglasses. While officers were focusing on the arrestee, Gardner pulled the face mask of a third officer with enough force to pull him back. Gardner was arrested after she swung at a fourth officer, striking the left side of his jaw.

Gardner made her first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

Meeting Notification for 10/27/2025

Hockinson School District #98

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

Monday October 27, 2025 at 6:00 pm

Hockinson Community Center, 15916 NE 182nd Ave. Brush Prairie, WA 98606

Zoom link available at http://www.hocksd.org">www.hocksd.org

SALEM - The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via zoom at 1:00 p.m. on November 3. Its agenda includes approval of 2025 Oregon Heritage Grants.
 

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

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

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

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

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from October 13 to October 15, and from October 19 to October 20, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on October 20. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on October 13, October 14, October 15, or October 19. Prior to this detection, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on October 12, 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

CORRECTIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Corrections Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on November 12, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1.  Introductions

2. Approve August 12, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Shane Bond; DPSST No. 59946; Union County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Cindy Park

4. John Deardorff; DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Emily Fisk; DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Jesus Gutierrez, DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution
    Presented by Jennifer Levario

8. Bonnie Kessell; DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

9. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

10. Administrative Revision Request: Parole and Probation Training Programs
    Presented by Chris Enquist

11. Agency Updates

12. Next Corrections Policy Committee Meeting: February 10, 2026, at 10:00am

Administrative Announcement

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

A passerby called 911 just before 4am Friday morning after noticing smoke coming from a storage complex that backs up to Bear Creek Rd at Janalee Pl. Crews responded to the area and searched both storage complexes in the area until finding smoke coming from a building in the Storage Solutions complex on Twin Knolls Dr. Fire was found in one unit and spreading to adjacent units in that building. The fire was quickly extinguished, and crews began removing contents from adjacent units to prevent further damage to property.  
 

The owner of the storage complex and the managers assisted in identifying the owners of the individual units and notification will be on going. The fire is still under investigation but appears to be accidental. The building damaged consisted of seventh (17) 10ft x 30ft large storage units, all but 2 were occupied with storage. Three units were damaged by fire and the rest have differing levels of smoke damage. Estimated loss to the building is $25,000 and content loss is $100,000.
 

Most storage locations require, or at least suggest, occupants obtain insurance coverage for your contents. Check with your insurance provider to see if storage items are covered under your current policies or if additional coverage may be needed. The design of these storage complexes does limit damage to just the single building, one of 16 buildings in the complex. Any storage outside of the building that burned was not affected.

The following information is in reference to two deaths investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. These investigations are related to a shooting at a Hazel Dell convenience store on Oct. 17, 2025.

Decedent 1:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Kumar, Pardeep   Age: 37 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Penetrating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other person(s) with handgun

Place of injury: 7-11 convenience store

Decedent 2:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Taylor, Ryan   Age: 26 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Perforating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Suicide

How the injury occurred: Shot self with handgun

Place of injury: convenience store

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 Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Media release issue date: 10/23/2025

UPDATE

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that her detectives have arrested two people in connection to the homicide of Christopher Smith that occurred in a parking lot at the intersection of Highway 34 and Peoria Road, east of Corvallis on October 4, 2025.  

Steve Dwayne Simmons Jr., 44, of Albany, was arrested on October 17, 2025 by members of the Linn County Regional SWAT Team at the Geary Street Urgent Care located at the intersection of Queen Avenue SE and Geary Street in Albany.  Simmons attempted to flee law enforcement but was apprehended after a short foot pursuit.  Simmons was transported to the Linn County Jail and charged with Murder in the Second Degree.        

On October 22, 2025, Detectives presented their investigation to the Linn County Grand Jury.  As a result, Simmons was indicted on Murder in the First Degree, Murder in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

The Linn County Grand Jury also indicted Joshua Edward Gabell, 41, of Corvallis, on Murder in the Second Degree and Robbery in the First Degree. 

Gabell has been in custody at the Linn County Jail since October 10, 2025, when he was lodged for an unrelated Parole Violation. 

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office has been assisted in their investigation by the Oregon State University Public Safety Department, the Albany Police Department, the Corvallis Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. 

No further details will be released on this investigation as it is continuing.  Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (866) 557-9988.      

Previous Press Releases

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is releasing further information regarding the homicide that occurred on Saturday, October 4^th on Highway 34 and Peoria Road, east of Corvallis.  When the Corvallis Fire Department arrived the morning of the incident, they found a single male occupant in a gray 2013 Chevrolet Camaro that had been crashed into a fence.  As they started to render aid to the male, they found he had been shot.  Deputies arrived shortly after the fire department and began a criminal investigation.  The occupant of the Chevrolet Camaro was identified as Christopher Joseph Smith, 30, from Albany.  Smith died on scene from his injuries.  Linn County Detectives are investigating the homicide. Smith’s family has been notified of his passing.  Anyone with information on this incident should contact Detective Scott Tennant at (541) 967-3950.      

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that this morning, October 4, 2025, at 4:19 a.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call for a crash near Peoria Road and Highway 34, near Corvallis in Linn County.  The Corvallis Fire Department arrived at the reported crash location prior to law enforcement’s arrival.  As the Corvallis Fire Department began rendering aid to the single occupant of the vehicle, they observed injuries not related to the crash.  The Corvallis Fire Department attempted lifesaving efforts, but the single occupant died at the scene of the crash. 

Detectives from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and are currently investigating the death as a homicide.  At this time, the name of the deceased is not being released and no additional information will be made to the public.      

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Executive & Business Meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025 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: Parkrose Community Award presented to Donell Morgan, recognizing November as National Native American Heritage Month, consent agenda, Division 22 standard and assurances annual report, ASB report, Board reports, OSBA elections, first reading of policy, City council district 1 update, Goals measures, Equity lens, Levy/bond discussion. 

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.

10/23/25

Case: 24CR16572

Portland, OR- Shondel Lamar Larkin, 53-years-old, was sentenced today to a lifetime of supervision under the Oregon Psychiatric Security Review Board. Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge David Rees imposed the sentence after a stipulated facts trial today. That is a type of trial in which both the prosecution and defense agree on the facts that will be shared with the judge, there is no jury in the case.

Larkin was charged with Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon for stabbing Michael Brady to death on a TriMet light rail train on March 29, 2024 in the Portland area.

The  PSRB will decide how long Larkin is kept at the State Hospital in Salem and whether he can ever be released back into the community.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Sean Hughey and Deputy District Attorney Julian Samuels prosecuted the case for the state.  After the sentencing Hughey said: 

“Michael Brady was a hard-working Portlander going about his daily life: riding the MAX train and planning to return home to his wife and young son.  His life was cut short by a man who was dangerously mentally ill and who attacked Mr. Brady without provocation due to the defendant’s delusions.  Shondel Larkin will be confined to the Oregon State Hospital, but no legal outcome can restore the extraordinary loss felt by Mr. Brady’s loved ones and community.”

Samuels said, 

“Our thoughts, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office,  are with the  Brady family and the community. Acts of violence such as the one in this case are unacceptable. Public transit is a place where every rider should feel safe. This outcome will place Mr. Larkin in the custody of the Oregon State Hospital where he will no longer be a danger to our community.”

TriMet’s Chief Safety and Security Officer, Andrew Wilson said::

“Our hearts go out to the family of Michael Brady. While today’s sentencing cannot undo their loss, we appreciate the work of the Multnomah District Attorney’s Office to make sure his assailant does not hurt anyone else. Based on media reports, it appears Shondel Larkin should never have been in Oregon. 

We at TriMet will continue working with law enforcement to hold people who commit crimes accountable and with our community partners to address societal issues, such as mental illness and homelessness. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detective Shaye Samora for her outstanding work on this difficult case. 

MCDA would also like to highlight the work of Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera who provided care and support to the victims.

THE FACTS:

On March 29, 2024 Michael Brady was riding the MAX train home from work. Shondel Larkin sat in a seat across the aisle. The two men did not know each other and had no interactions. Suddenly Larkin stood up with a large butcher knife in his left hand and began stabbing Brady.

The two struggled as Larkin continued to stab Brady. Brady got out of his seat and moved toward the front of the train. Video from inside the Max train shows that Larkin continued to stab Brady multiple times. The two men eventually fell to the floor near the doors and video shows Larkin again stab Brady multiple times before standing up and walking back to stand near his seat.

Michael Brady died from his injuries on the MAX platform at the NE 82nd Avenue station.

Larkin later told investigators that voices he heard made him believe the victim was going to kill him, and or assist law enforcement with providing information related to his past.

                                                ###MCDA###

Vancouver Fire responded to a structure fire at 10008 NE 53rd Ave just after 8 am this morning, October 23rd.  Several callers stated they heard explosions followed by large amounts of black smoke and flames.  First arriving crews found heavy fire involvement in the garage and rooms above it as well as 2 vehicles parked in the driveway.  Firefighters began extinguishing the wall of flames from the exterior prior to moving inside to search the 2 story home and continue fire suppression.  Two residents were displaced following the tragic event.  Fortunately, no human or pet lives were lost or injured.  Six Vancouver Fire companies were also assisted by Fire District 6.  Clark Country Fire Marshals are investigating the cause.

• October 27-31 is Red Ribbon Week in Salem, part of National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month
• One of this year’s messages is preventing opioid use.

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem and the Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion, and Polk Counties are working together to teach kids how to live healthy, drug-free lives. During Red Ribbon Week, kids at all eight Marion County Boys & Girls Clubs will take part in fun, interactive activities and lessons about staying drug-free.

Red Ribbon Week is the largest and oldest national prevention program for youth in the country. This is the second year the City has partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs for this observance.

“Local Hospitals and Emergency Room data continues to show that children, teens, and young adults are overdosing and sometimes dying from opioids, including from pills laced with fentanyl. In 2024, 10-to-24-year-olds, visited ER’s for opioid overdoses at a rate of 44 per 100,000 people in Marion County. We want to see that rate get to zero,” said Laurie Shaw Casarez, Opioid Prevention Coordinator for the City. Her work is funded by money from national opioid settlements.

Find more drug statistics about Marion County.

 Activities for Red Ribbon Week

This year’s theme is “Life is a Puzzle. Solve it Drug Free.” From October 27 to October 31, each day will have a special focus:

• Monday: Community & Connection – Kids will make a red construction paper linked chain to hang in their club. They will learn the importance of being linked into a supportive community to avoid loneliness and make good choices.
• Tuesday: Life is a Puzzle: Solve it Drug Free – Kids will play with puzzles donated by community members. They will learn how making good choices piece by piece helps build a bright future, just like putting together a puzzle.
• Wednesday: Wake Up Drug Free – Younger kids will make positive affirmation collages with morning-themed pictures to keep by their beds. Older kids will decorate doors with the morning theme at the clubs. These activities will remind kids to start each day optimistic, brave and drug-free.
• Thursday and Friday: Say Boo to Bad Choices (Drugs are a Trick, not a Treat) – Peer pressure can feel like a scary monster. Kids make little pompom monsters to take home with the saying “Stronger than the Monster.” Children will also choose their personal refusal skills strategies through lessons and discussions. 

Middle schoolers at the clubs will learn about the impact of vaping and the dangers of fentanyl through videos and discussions. They will make creative journals that will include a personalized 4-step peer pressure exit plan along with other activities.

Other Observances

The City is also planning a Red Ribbon Week proclamation at the October 27 meeting of the Salem City Council.

“Red Ribbon Week serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate and develop healthy, happy and brave children and youth through drug prevention activities celebrating a drug-free life,” the proclamation reads.

To honor Red Ribbon Week, the Union Street Railroad Bridge, now a pedestrian bridge, will be lit up in red.  

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Balch Gulch Bridge, which spans the Lower Macleay Trail in Northwest Portland, is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge’s nomination was recommended by Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) at its June 2025 meeting and officially approved by the National Park Service in September. Its inclusion in the National Register underscores the value of preserving Oregon’s infrastructure and the stories it tells about community development and engineering innovation. Today, the bridge remains a symbol of Portland’s development and planning during a defining moment in its history.
 

The Balch Gulch Bridge played a key role in the growth of Northwest Portland. When it opened in 1905, the bridge significantly improved connectivity to the Willamette Heights neighborhood by extending streetcar service across the deep gulley containing Balch Creek. This improved access made the area more attractive to new residents and helped spur a wave of development that lasted nearly a decade. The timing of the bridge’s completion also aligned with the 1905 Lewis and Clark Centennial, held nearby at Guild’s Lake. The City of Portland promoted the streetcar route into Willamette Heights as a scenic outing for fairgoers, and several viewpoints accessible via the bridge were featured in promotional images of the fairgrounds. These efforts helped elevate the city’s image and attract outside investment, while the bridge itself played a central role in shaping the immediate area’s early growth.
 

In addition to its historical impact, the Balch Gulch Bridge is also recognized for its engineering significance. The bridge stands as a rare surviving example of its type and of a connection technology that fell out of use more than a century ago. Its two steel trusses—the load-bearing framework made of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal members forming a series of triangles—are fastened with flexible pin connections. This method was widely used in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries but was eventually replaced by rivets and, later, bolts. Today, only thirteen pin-connected highway bridges remain in Oregon, and among them, the Balch Gulch Bridge is the only one with a deck truss configuration, meaning its trusses are located beneath the road surface. As such, the Balch Gulch Bridge offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of bridge design and turn-of-the-century engineering technologies.
 

In 2014, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) completed a comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridge by replacing all components above the historic deck trusses. As part of the project, the historic bridge was carefully restored with a new sidewalk, deck, and handrail system. The riveted steel beams were replaced with modern replicas. The work garnered PBOT a 2015 Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association for Historical Renovation and Preservation.
 

“It’s an honor to be the caretakers of this historic bridge and we are committed to maintaining its integrity,” said Portland Transportation Director Millicent Williams. “As recently as this summer, the bureau began the construction phase of a major preservation project to repaint the bridge and install new streetlights to increase nighttime visibility for all travelers.”
 

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

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

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. — Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will conclude her service on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) this month after completing the maximum terms allowed by law. Treasurer Topper was appointed to the Commission in July 2017 by Governor Jay Inslee to serve as the elected official representative on the 11-member board.

During her tenure, Treasurer Topper served as Chair of the Commission’s Audit Committee and represented Washington nationally as a member of the National Conference of State Housing Boards (NCSHB) for three years, ending her service as First Vice President. In these roles, she helped guide programs that expanded access to affordable housing and homeownership opportunities across Clark County and Washington State. Among her local achievements was partnering Clark County with the Commission to create and administer a $2 million down payment assistance program for moderate- and low-income first-time homebuyers. Through this partnership, the Commission matched up to $15,000 per loan, providing a total of $60,000 in support to qualified homebuyers.

Under her leadership and collaboration with local partners, 2,355 affordable homes were built in Clark County using the Commission’s federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, contributing significantly to the region’s supply of quality, affordable housing.

“Serving on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission has been a true honor,” said Treasurer Topper. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the progress we’ve made to make housing more accessible for families across Clark County and throughout Washington. The need for affordable housing continues to grow, and it’s critical that we keep investing in solutions that help working families, seniors, and individuals find stable, affordable homes. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as the local elected official representative and to contribute to meaningful solutions that support our residents and communities.”

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission works to increase housing access and affordability through innovative financing programs that support homebuyers, renters, and community development projects statewide.

For more information about the Commission’s work, visit https://www.wshfc.org.

Last week, students from Ridgefield High School’s Child Development I class, taught by Anne Simms, visited the Early Learning Center (ELC)—Ridgefield School District’s preschool program—for a special day of hands-on learning and connection.
 

As part of their unit on preschool development, the high schoolers recently completed a children’s book study and designed hands-on activities to pair with their chosen books. During their visit, they had the opportunity to observe ELC classrooms in action, assist teachers, and work directly with preschool students.
 

“This visit was a wonderful way for students to apply what they’ve been learning in class,” said Simms. “They got to see firsthand how play and exploration help children learn and grow. Many of them had those lightbulb moments—realizing that learning through play doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.”
 

Simms reintroduced the Child Development program this school year after it had been on pause since 2020. The class emphasizes project-based learning and helps students explore human development from birth through adolescence while building practical skills and awareness of careers in education and related fields.
 

For students like 10th grader Ginger Gorycki, the experience offered both inspiration and insight. “It helps you see the real side of working with young children,” Gorycki said. “I personally loved the experience and am now thinking about working in a preschool as a special education teacher or speech pathologist someday.”
 

Classmate Taylor Bush agreed, saying, “I would definitely urge other students to take this class because it’s so much fun, but you also learn a lot that you wouldn’t in a regular health class. It takes patience and understanding to work with kids, but it’s so rewarding.”
 

The visit also highlighted the strong partnership between Ridgefield’s high school and early learning programs. ELC Lead Preschool Teacher Jody Harris praised the students’ enthusiasm and impact: “What a joy to have our Spuds! What an amazing group of students! It was such a pleasure having them come work with our little Hashbrowns. They brought so much joy to our classroom—engaging with the children and giving them opportunities to learn from a different lens (the ‘big kids’!). It was a wonderful day, and we can’t wait to have them back. Go Spuds!”
 

The collaboration was a meaningful reminder of Ridgefield’s commitment to learning at every level—and how each stage of education can build on the next to strengthen the entire community.
 

Interested in preschool enrollment?
There are still spots available in Ridgefield School District’s Early Learning Center program. The ELC offers full tuition and need-based scholarships for qualifying families. Visit thersd.org/ELC to learn more and get enrolled.

(CASCADE LOCKS, Ore.) – You may ask what’s in a name, but for Oregon Wildlife Foundation’s gift shops, it’s about underscoring the organization’s wildlife conservation work. 

Spruce Gifts and Provisions stores in Bonneville and Hood River are rebranding as OWF Gift Shops, reflecting a commitment to connect visitors directly with the Foundation’s mission. Owned and operated by the Oregon Wildlife Foundation (OWF), the flagship store at the Bonneville Fish Hatchery opened in 1989. Its sister store, on Oak Street in downtown Hood River opened in 2020. 

OWF Gift Shops General Manager Heather Pola said the shift better aligned retail operations with the Foundation’s purpose.

“Our goal is to increase awareness of OWF,” Pola said. “We’re using our gift shops as a vehicle to drive more traffic to the Foundation’s website, deepen awareness of our work, and give back to the cause.”

OWF Gift Shops feature curated merchandise from Oregon-based brands and artists, nature-inspired goods, and items that complement OWF-funded initiatives. A portion of each purchase supports the Foundation’s work, which focuses on conserving and protecting habitats for wildlife across Oregon. 

“Net proceeds from sales are an important part of how Oregon Wildlife Foundation is able to carry out our statewide conservation work,” said OWF Executive Director Tim Greseth. “It's also another way for us to engage with the public and help make them aware of the wildlife conservation challenges we have in Oregon.”

Coffee, Community, and Conservation

As part of the rebrand, OWF’s on-site café, Herman’s Coffee Bar, also underwent an overhaul this year. Pola said the team updated its menu with a new focus on beverages and snacks from Pacific Northwest companies.

“We’ve refreshed our offerings with a focus on local flavors and regional brands,” Pola said. “Every cup of coffee now ties into our broader mission of supporting Oregon’s wildlife and communities.”

Growing Awareness and Giving Back

In February, OWF Gift Shops introduced a donation-at-checkout feature, enabling visitors to easily contribute to the Foundation’s conservation efforts. Pola said the program has already generated vital funds while reinforcing OWF’s visibility.

Looking ahead, OWF Gift Shops plans to expand co-branded collaborations with Oregon companies, introduce new products linked to active conservation projects, and continue community outreach events such as group hikes, local artist showcases, and seasonal gatherings.

“The evolution of the gift shops is really inspiring,” Pola said. “We welcome everyone to visit and see how every purchase supports Oregon’s wildlife.”

For more information, including location and hours, visit www.myowf.org/owfgiftshop.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an apolitical operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information, visit www.myowf.org.

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EUGENE, Ore.— A Eugene, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for using social media platforms, including Snapchat and Instagram, to exploit and coerce children in Oregon, New York, and Florida.

Vincent Alan Elder, 32, was sentenced to 288 months in federal prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution to each of his three victims.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Elder used social media to meet and communicate with three identified minors in 2022 and 2023. He sent online payments to encourage a minor victim in Florida to make and send nude photos. To obtain the same from a minor victim in Oregon, he sent vape pens, food delivery orders, and left bags of cash near the victim’s house. When a minor victim in New York tried to cease contact with him, Elder threatened to tell the victim’s mother or even involve that victim’s younger sibling—an act known as sextortion.

After learning of the allegations, in November 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed search warrants for Elder’s person, devices, and motel room. On December 1, 2023, the FBI arrested Elder. A search of his devices showed chats with some of the minor victims, the Oregon victim’s personal information, and nude images of the Florida victim.

“I am thankful for the brave victims who came forward, and I am grateful to the law enforcement agencies who helped bring this dangerous predator to justice,” said United States Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “We will continue to seek significant prison sentences for anyone who targets our communities’ children.”

“Investigating crimes against children is some of the most important work we do at the FBI,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “The crimes committed in this instance were egregious, and we moved swiftly to stop the predatory behavior. Even one child subjected to such abuse is one too many, and we continue to work with our local law enforcement partners to find instances of abuse and protect our communities.” 

On January 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a seven-count indictment charging Elder with Using a Minor to Produce a Visual Depiction of Sexually Explicit Conduct and Attempt, Coercion and Enticement of a Minor and Attempt, and Possession of Child Pornography. 

On July 29, 2025, Elder pleaded guilty to two counts of Using a Minor to Produce a Visual Depiction of Sexually Explicit Conduct with regard to the New York and Florida victims and one count of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor with regard to the Oregon victim.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Springfield Police Department and the Eugene Police Department. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, they re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

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.

SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, Oct. 30, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Riparian pilot study updates
• Review of roads and steep slopes pilot study methods
• Compliance Monitoring Program symposium take aways
• Review 2026 Compliance Monitoring Program Committee meeting schedule

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing ta.l.friasbedolla@odf.oregon.gov">Marta Frias-Bedolla.

The CMP Committee assists efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.

This new community will provide Permanent Supportive Housing for longtime Portland residents who have historically faced barriers to stable housing and are ready for a place to call home.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives (PCRI) will cut the ribbon on a much-needed Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) project in the North and Northeast Portland area on Friday, October 24.

“The opening of Kafoury Court means 40 units will be available for individuals suffering from chronic homelessness and will now be given an opportunity to have a place they can call home,” said Executive Director Kymberly Horner. “Our work is rooted in restoring access and dignity for Portlanders who’ve faced barriers to housing for far too long. This is what community reinvestment truly looks like.” 

The PSH units will consist of one-bedroom and studio apartments. People with the highest barriers to housing and who are currently experiencing homelessness will be given priority through Multnomah County’s Coordinated Access priority pool. Developed for residents who have experienced these challenges, Kafoury Court will do more than just put a roof over their heads. 

In partnership with Northwest Pilot Project (NWPP) and Black Community of Portland (BCP), residents will receive onsite supports right from the start, including assistance during the leasing process. PCRI will also place permanent Support Specialists onsite to work with NWPP and BCP.  Acting as a liaison for residents after move-in, the Support Specialists will ensure long-term housing and health stability. Once settled, individuals can receive voluntary supportive services and community-based connections to help maintain stability, pursue personal goals, and improve overall well-being.

"Northwest Pilot Project is so pleased to be part of this new housing option for older adults who've experienced chronic homelessness,” said Laura Golino de Lovato, Executive Director at Northwest Pilot Project. “Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population in the Portland Metro area. Kafoury Court represents safe and lasting housing stability for one of the most vulnerable populations in our community. We're looking forward to working in partnership with Black Community of Portland, and with PCRI."

The building is designed to foster community and connection, with every space was designed with comfort, safety, and dignity in mind. A community room anchors the corner of the building and opens to the outside as well as sunrooms on each floor, designed to spark community connection. These shared spaces help prevent the isolation that can often occur when living alone. The community room will feature a piano, open to anyone who wishes to play or simply relax and enjoy the music.

We invite you to join us for the Grand Opening of Kafoury Court.

Kafoury Court Grand Opening
Friday, October 24, 2025
4080 NE Grand Ave., Portland, Or.
11:15am – 2pm
Media tours available upon request (please call to schedule)

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Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives (PCRI) was formed in 1992 in Portland, Oregon in response to a housing crisis. PCRI, a 501c3, is the largest provider of affordable housing and housing services for low-income residents in North and inner Northeast Portland (N/NE). They are dedicated to creating and maintaining affordable housing for historically underserved communities, and working to build generational wealth for our residents. Through direct services, homeownership counseling, and property management of affordable rental units, PCRI works to create stability for the participants they serve.  The mission of PCRI is to preserve, expand and manage affordable housing in the City of Portland and provide access to—and advocacy for— services for the residents of North and Northeast Portland. Their vision is of a future where the cycle of serial displacement is eliminated, resulting in a preserved, rebuilt, and thriving community.

Lincoln County, Ore. (Oct. 23, 2025)- On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 11:29 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus skateboarder crash on Highway 101, near milepost 121, in Lincoln County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a skateboarder, Joseph Wesley Tallman (35) of Depoe Bay, attempted to cross the highway from the eastbound shoulder and was struck by a northbound Mack commercial motor vehicle, operated by Marcus Daniel Harwood (35) of Veneta, who was unable to avoid the collision.

The skateboarder (Tallman) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Mack (Harwood) was uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln City Police Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Harney County, Ore. (Oct. 23, 2025)- On Monday, October 20, 2025, at 4:30 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to at two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 144, in Harney County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by James Joseph Hammeke (91) of Burns, entered the highway from Rattlesnake Road and was struck by a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Jaswinder Singh Sidhu (45) of Oregon City. The Freightliner struck the driver side door and front fender of the Chevrolet causing significant damage.

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

The operator of the Freightliner (Sidhu) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Burns 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.

Union Ridge and South Ridge elementary schools are once again looking for community members who would be interested in participating in our fourth annual career fair for Ridgefield 4th graders! 

The career fair will take place on Thursday, February 5th, 2026 at the Ridgefield Administrative and Civic Center (RACC) gym at 510 Pioneer Street from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m.  
 

We are looking for community members to give presentations about one of the career clusters listed below. Volunteers will be presenting six 15-minute sessions with approximately 10 students at each.

Here’s what we’re asking from volunteers:

1. A 7-minute presentation on their career covering:

   1. What “a day in the life” looks like

   2. Education or training needed

   3. Your favorite aspects/least favorite aspects

   4. What you use daily from your K-12 education 

2. A 6-minute interactive activity 

   1. Activity that lets students explore some aspect of the career hands-on  

3. 2-minute closing remarks/time for questions and answers

The career clusters we are looking for volunteers in are: 

• Agriculture, food and natural resources

• Architecture & construction

• Arts, audio/visual technology & communications

• Business management & administration

• Education and training

• Finance

• Government & public administration

• Health science

• Hospitality & tourism

• Human services

• Information technology

• Law, public safety, corrections & security

• Manufacturing

• Marketing

• STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)

• Transportation, distribution and logistics

If you have any questions or are interested in being a presenter, please email Nick Maudlin at nick.maudlin@ridgefieldsd.org to sign up. We are really excited to provide this opportunity for students and are thrilled to include presenters from within the Ridgefield community! 

This Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

PORTLAND, Ore.— On Saturday, October 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in collaboration with nearly 4,000 law enforcement partners across the United States, will host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at locations across the country. DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

For sixteen years, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans safely dispose of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—to prevent drug misuse and abuse.

Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at nearly 4,500 drop-off locations nationwide.

What:              National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

When:              Saturday, October 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where:            18 collection sites in Oregon

“Take Back Day provides a safe and anonymous way to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Unused prescription medication in the home pose serious risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose. We encourage all community members to participate and help reduce the potential for abuse and addiction in our communities.”

“All too often, drug abuse starts with prescription pills in the family medicine cabinet,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers an easy way to rid your home of these unwanted and potentially dangerous medicines before they can harm your children or grandchildren. Drop off your unneeded medicine this Saturday and take a step to keep your family safe from drug harm.”

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 19.8 million pounds (10,000 tons) of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

For more information and to find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has reached a multi-state settlement with E Mortgage Capital, which is based in Irvine, Calif., resolving allegations of unlicensed lending activity and other violations.

Oregon joined Hawaii, Idaho, and Texas in the multi-state settlement agreement, which imposed fines totaling $669,000.

In their examinations, mortgage regulators determined E Mortgage allowed unlicensed mortgage loan originators (MLOs) in their states to originate and earn commissions on 50 different transactions. Idaho and Texas officials also claimed unlicensed loan processors performed functions that should have been prohibited in their states in over 125 instances.

Additionally, Oregon regulators determined that E Mortgage’s remote work-from-home plan lacked adequate inspections and insufficient supervision of MLOs. There were 27 instances in Oregon where E Mortgage engaged in a remote work-from-home plan that was insufficient to adequately inspect remote work locations. Participating states view this as having an inadequate supervision plan and supervision of MLOs.

Regulators also found E Mortgage, in the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, engaged in unlicensed activity by allowing unlicensed MLOs to conduct origination activity. E Mortgage paid these unlicensed MLOs commissions when the MLOs were not licensed to originate loans in the participating states. Each state’s number of violations were Hawaii (7), Idaho (16), Oregon (13), and Texas (14).

The participating regulators determined that E Mortgage failed to cooperate or respond to examiners’ request for information and refused to provide examiners access to its Loan Origination System.

The company agreed to cease mortgage originations coming via unlicensed loan officers and processing activity involving ineligible employees.

“Protecting Oregon consumers means ensuring mortgage companies play by the rules,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “When firms fail to supervise their employees or cooperate with examiners, we take action to safeguard consumers and the integrity of the lending system.”

###

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

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

Halloween is just around the corner. Many view Halloween as a time for fun and treats, costumes, and attending spooky parties. Due to the increased pedestrian traffic, especially in low light conditions, it is also time to use extra caution. According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween night compared to other nights of the year. Here are some safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Safety Council to make Halloween safer for everyone.

Children should:

• Use caution when Trick-or-Treating
  • Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
  • Know phone numbers for emergency phone calls.
  • Carry a note in their pocket with their name, address, and emergency contact.
  • Use flashlights, stay on sidewalks if available, and avoid crossing or walking through yards.
  • Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing the street.
  • Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks if available, and avoid crossing between parked cars.
  • Always look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
     
• Plan a safe costume
  • Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
  • Avoid wearing hats that could slide over their eyes.
  • Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes and avoid oversized shoes to prevent tripping.
  • Ensure costume weapons are flexible, not rigid or sharp, and are very clearly toys.

Adults should:

• Ensure safe activities for kids
  • Supervise children during trick-or-treating and during other activities.
  • Supervise children as they cross the street.
  • Establish a curfew for older children.
  • Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks. Place decorations away from doorways, landings, or walkways.
  • Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys to young children.
  • Inspect all candy before children eat it.
  • Consider taking advantage of community events where kids can wear costumes and trick-or-treat in one central place without the need to navigate city and neighborhood streets.

• Use extra caution on the road and in neighborhoods
  • Drive slowly.
  • Watch for children in the street and on medians.
  • Exit driveways carefully.
  • Have children get out of cars on the curbside, not the traffic side.
  • Avoid distracted driving or driving while tired.
  • Do not drive after using alcohol or other drugs.

Following these tips can help ensure this Halloween is a safe and fun holiday for everyone.

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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SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for northwest Oregon will meet at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30 at the ODF Forest Grove District office, 801 Gales Creek Road. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division updates
• Operator of the Year decision
• Forest Practices Technical Guidance update
• Forest practices rulemaking: Post-disturbance rules, tethered logging
• Habitat Conservation Plan status
• Forest Resources Division Training Team summary
• Forest Practices Compliance Monitoring Program update

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

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

Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

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

Oregon and the Internal Revenue Service are once again recruiting people to assist in the free preparation of taxes as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

“Oregon needs more VITA sites and volunteers. For low- and moderate-income families, claiming the tax credits available to them can be a starting point on the path to stronger financial security. But too often those tax credits go unclaimed,” said Codi Trudell, Oregon’s Taxpayer Advocate. “The cost and complexity of filing a tax return is a hurdle for too many people. By volunteering to help them file their returns and claim their credits, Oregonians can make a difference for people in their local community.”

The IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Including free tax help offered by AARP, so far in 2025, free tax assistance has been made available to nearly 38,000 taxpayers at 108 sites across the state. That’s up from 104 sites and 33,000 taxpayers at this point in 2024. Every year, however, the sites are forced to turn away people who need assistance due to a shortage of volunteers.

In addition to the need for volunteers, the IRS is also seeking organizations to sponsor VITA and TCE clinics.

The VITA and TCE programs train volunteers to help low- to moderate-income families prepare their tax returns. Across the country, thousands of people volunteer each year and prepare millions of tax returns at thousands of tax sites nationwide.

Volunteers are assigned to work with a sponsoring organization, first to receive training and then to begin volunteering at a location in the community. Training is offered both online and in the classroom. Tax sites are generally open nights and weekends, and the hours are flexible.

Additional information is available on the IRS website. Interested persons can submit an inquiry now using the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up moving them one step closer to becoming a VITA or TCE tax volunteer and giving back to their community. The IRS will share information about those interested in volunteering with sponsoring organizations for follow-up contact.

Organizations with an interest in partnering with the IRS to sponsor or host a free tax preparation site in Oregon can also complete and submit the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up form.

To find a VITA site near them, Oregonians can use the IRS Site Locator tool or check the DOR’s Free Tax Help map with VITA sites marked in blue.

VITA sites at 15 locations in Oregon receive funding from the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program. Those interested in volunteering at one of these sites should contact the organizations below in December.

Beaverton, Eugene, Gresham, Portland: 

CASH Oregon

503-461-7388

volunteer@cashoregon.org

Bend, Redmond: 

Latino Community Association

541-382-4366

info@latinocommunityassociation.org

Bend, Corvallis, Eugene:

Oregon State University

541-737-3371

vita@oregonstate.edu

Coos Bay, Roseburg:

Moneywise Oregon

541-670-5054

dan@moneywiseoregon.org

Medford:

United Way Jackson County

541-864-5092

office@unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org

Ontario, Portland:

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization

 971-331-9811

ethz@irco.org">elizabethz@irco.org

Woodburn:

Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos

503-902-0367

biec@centrodspc.org">debbiec@centrodspc.org

- 30 -

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue is proud to announce the addition of Rescue 6, a new rescue unit that will begin service at Cherry Lane Station 6 on November 6, 2025. This addition expands the department’s emergency response capacity and enhances service to Hillsboro’s second-fastest-growing area, which continues to see a rising demand for emergency medical services.

Rescue 6 provides added flexibility within Hillsboro’s emergency response system, enabling the department to strategically deploy the right resources for each type of call. The rescue unit will respond to a wide range of emergency medical incidents, working seamlessly with existing fire and emergency medical services to provide comprehensive care to residents and visitors. This ensures that residents receive timely and efficient care while keeping fire engines available for fires and other complex emergencies.

“This is a strategic investment in our community’s safety,” said Fire Chief David Downey. “Rescue 6 enhances our ability to respond quickly to medical calls, improves coverage in a rapidly growing area, and helps ensure that all of our stations remain ready for major incidents.”

Rescue 6 will be staffed by firefighter-paramedics and equipped with advanced life support (ALS) tools and technology to deliver high-quality pre-hospital medical care. Its addition to Station 6 enhances response capacity for the surrounding neighborhoods and contributes to systemwide efficiency across Hillsboro Fire & Rescue’s service area.

“This new rescue unit reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and responsiveness,” Chief Downey added. “As Hillsboro grows, we continue to evolve—deploying our resources strategically so we can provide the best possible service to everyone in our community.”

Robby Hammond, City Manager for the City of Hillsboro, emphasized the importance of this investment: "As Hillsboro continues to grow, it's essential that our emergency services infrastructure keeps pace with our community's needs. Rescue 6 represents a proactive approach to public safety, ensuring that our residents and businesses have access to excellent emergency medical care as our city expands. This, in turn, results in better outcomes for our community when they need it most."

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue remains dedicated to protecting lives and property through excellence in emergency response, prevention, and community engagement.

Photos and B-roll Video Footage for Media Use: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rq8eSC34Ahyf1uW7qq5avI4dd5gcmOIO?usp=sharing

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Tualatin, Ore. - Samaritan Health Services’ recent announcement that it plans to “affiliate” with Washington State-based MultiCare Health System leaves more questions than answers about what this means for the future of healthcare in Oregon.  

Samaritan Health is a locally run, regional health system serving communities throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley and Oregon Coast. State and federal regulators must take a hard look at this transaction to ensure it is in the best interest of those communities and will not result in cuts to services, layoffs, and higher costs. 

ONA will do everything in our power to ensure that any transaction centers the needs of patients and the nurses and healthcare professionals who provide their care. 

Oregon needs healthcare systems rooted in community, accountability, and compassion—not corporate consolidation. 

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.

# # #

The Police Activities League of Southwest Washington (PAL of SWWA), in partnership with Cloth & Foster, is thrilled to host the first-ever PAL-O-Ween Trunk or Treat event on Thursday, October 23rd from 5:30–7:30 PM at 18405 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA. This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and promises a safe and festive Halloween celebration for youth and families across the community.

Unlike traditional Trunk or Treats, PAL-O-Ween will feature over 15 law enforcement vehicles from agencies including the Vancouver Police Department, Clark County Sheriff's Office, Washington State Patrol, and Ridgefield Police Department. Youth will have the opportunity to explore these vehicles up close while collecting candy and connecting with local officers in a positive, welcoming environment.

In addition to the impressive lineup of patrol cars, the event will include:

• Craft station
• Festive photo booth
• Community-hosted trunks handing out candy

This inaugural event was inspired by the tragic violence that occurred at Vancouver Mall last Halloween. In response, PAL is committed to providing a safe and joyful space for families to celebrate the season. With over 350 youth already RSVP’d, PAL-O-Ween is shaping up to be a vibrant and meaningful gathering for the community.

“We know many families are looking for a safe place to celebrate Halloween this year,” said Jesse Jimenez, Executive Director of PAL of SWWA. “PAL-O-Ween is our way of showing that law enforcement and the community can come together to create something positive, safe, and fun for our youth.”

Media are welcome to attend and cover this exciting event.

PAL of SWWA's mission is to foster and facilitate positive relationships between law enforcement and youth. 

It’s easy to overlook the small things that can make a big difference; a kind gesture, a simple smile, or even something as ordinary as a clean pair of socks. Most of us start our day by putting on socks without a second thought. But imagine if those socks were worn out, full of holes, or if you didn’t have any at all. For a school student, that small detail can have a big impact on comfort, hygiene, and dignity.

The Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) learned that the sock company Bombas had a program designed to assist those in need.  Upon learning of the needs, the response from Bombas was remarkable. They donated more than 450 pairs of brand-new socks to the department.

With this generous donation, BGPD’s School Resource Officer created a fitting initiative: BGPD SOCK – Strengthening Outreach, Community, and Kindness.

BGPD School Resource Officers work closely with students within the Battle Ground School District every day and they understand the challenges some students face. These new socks will be distributed to students in need, providing not just physical comfort, but also a sense of confidence and care.  Something as simple as having five new pairs of comfortable socks–one for each school day–can help a student feel valued, refreshed, and more able to focus in class.

The Battle Ground Police Department extends sincere gratitude to Bombas for their generosity in helping make a positive difference in the lives of Battle Ground students.  Their efforts to assist BGPD with reenforcing its community relationships and embody the department’s commitment to its motto of “Partners With The Community.”

Morrow County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of a branch bull elk near Heppner, Oregon. 

On Friday September 19^th, 2025, at approximately 7:30 am, individual(s) illegally harvested a bull elk on private ranch property, near the intersection of Forest Service Road 21 and Sunflower Flat Road, in Morrow County.  A majority of meat was taken from the scene, while some meat was also left behind or wasted. 

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number is SP25-410093.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 for illegally obtaining an Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multidisciplinary organization 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 to other law enforcement agencies throughout the state. 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Umatilla County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of a branch bull elk near Hermiston, Oregon. 

On Friday September 5th, 2025, OSP F&W troopers responded to the report of an unlawfully taken 6x6 bull elk, in the Columbia Basin Unit, on private property adjacent to Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge. It is believed the elk was killed, and left at the scene, between September 4^th and 5^th, 2025. No meat was able to be salvaged from the animal.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference OSP case number SP25-395113.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 for illegally obtaining an Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multidisciplinary organization 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 to other law enforcement agencies throughout the state. 

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging a Portland resident with damaging cameras affixed to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building on June 12, 2025.

Alistair Sidener, 20, made an initial appearance in federal court last Friday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Sidener was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Depredation of federal property in an amount exceeding $1,000 is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Since June 13, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged 37 defendants with offenses committed near ICE facilities, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

Linn County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:40 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 234, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Joshua David Moore (42) of Springfield, lost control while slowing for traffic and laid down his motorcycle in the lane of travel. Another northbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Jan Allen Hicks Sr. (60) of Eugene, was unable to avoid a collision and struck the downed rider (Moore).

Moore was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

Hicks Sr. was reportedly uninjured during the incident.

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

OSP was assisted by the Albany 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.

Oct. 22, 2025 

Media Contact:  Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

Lincoln County’s first residential substance use disorder treatment facility opens 

Newport, Ore.—Samaritan Health Services has opened the new Samaritan Treatment & Recovery Services facility, the first substance use disorder (SUD) residential treatment center in Lincoln County and a critical step forward in expanding access to behavioral health services in the region.  

"This facility is a game-changer for a community that has needed expanded treatment capacity for nearly a decade," Governor Tina Kotek said. "Since 2016, local leaders have been calling for stronger support in addressing behavioral health needs in the area. Now, that call is being answered — and it will save lives. Let’s keep going." 

The new 16-bed inpatient and outpatient treatment center, located at 5840 NW Biggs Street in Newport was funded in part by a $2.95 million investment from Oregon Health Authority’s Behavioral Health Investments program.  

With the new facility, Samaritan Pacific Health Services plans to assess hundreds of individuals annually for substance use disorders, provide case management and recovery support, and help people secure stable housing. On-site staff will include a nurse, drug counselors, peer support specialists and care coordinators who connect patients with wrap-around services.  

"This project fills a long-standing gap in our region's behavioral health infrastructure," said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director at Oregon Health Authority (OHA)."It’s a transformative investment in recovery, stability and community health."

At the Oct. 20 ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by the Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, community members and project partners participated in guided tours of the facility. 

Aimee Thompson, Pacific Communities Health District board member and past chair and Dr. David Simmons, Medical Director, Samaritan & Recovery Services speak at the ceremony.

Here’s a compilation of video clips from the grand opening for media use.

“Health care transformation doesn’t happen in isolation,” said Samaritan Health Services President Marty Cahill.  “It takes people and organizations — public, private, philanthropic and governmental — working side by side, united by a shared goal to make care more accessible and more human. Every square foot of this facility tells a story of community partnership.”

Residents can get a referral from a doctor or may inquire for treatment on their own, though they must meet medical criteria. The facility will open for services on Oct. 27. 

Oct. 22, 2025

Contact:

Franny White, 971-349-9539, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov (media inquiries)

Committee staff .Affordability@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHPB.Affordability@oha.oregon.gov (meeting information or accommodation)

Committee on Health Care Affordability meets Oct. 28

What: A public meeting of the Committee on Health Care Affordability

When:  Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. 2 to 4 p.m.

Where: This is a virtual meeting via Zoom.

Join ZoomGov Meeting

Meeting ID: 161 107 3718

Passcode: 687992

Agenda:

• Welcome
• Creating a shared vision for affordability
• Criteria for developing policy recommendations
• Public Comment

Public comment will be heard at 3:45 p.m. Please submit any public comment in writing prior to the meeting at .Affordability@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHPB.Affordability@oha.oregon.gov.

For more information, please visit the committee’s website.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• CART (live captions)
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Melisa Otrugman at 503-689-5238, 711 TTY, ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Stayton, Ore. – Every Saturday over the last month, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) North Cascade District hosted Scouting America troops from Eugene, Oregon to Seattle, Washington and in between. The district helped 80 scouts earn their Wildland Fire Management merit badge, a new merit badge being tested this year with the hopes it will become an official merit badge next summer at the National Jamboree.

“The scouts learned that it’s more than putting out a fire,” said Scott West, ODF Molalla Unit Forester for the North Cascade District.

In the classes, scouts, ages 11-17, learned how to make their homes, camps, and communities more wildfire resilient and resistant while also understanding wildfire’s role in nature. They also learn about the history, prevention, science, tools, and equipment of wildland fire management. The new merit badge gives the scouts the opportunity to explore different career opportunities in wildland fire management.

“I wanted kids to see the larger picture when it comes to wildfire and learn what they can do in terms of that picture,” said West. “By the end of the course, we even had a few 17-year-olds interested in applying to be a wildland firefighter once they graduate.”

The investment in wildland firefighting’s future doesn’t just encompass this one month but years of work. Scott West not only facilitated the courses in ODF’s North Cascade District but also helped create the curriculum for the new merit badge with Scouting America, a process that began in 2018.

“When on an assignment with ODF Complex Incident Management Team 2 in 2017, I met Mike Huneke with the U.S. Forest Service out of Maryland. Mike is also a volunteer with Scouting America and chairs the National Conservation Committee. We discussed the need for a merit badge that focuses on wildland fire management and the impact a merit badge like this could have on our field’s future. So together we built out the curriculum, presented it to Scouting America and now get to see the finished product in action right here in Oregon,” West said.

Understanding and managing wildland fire is a complex undertaking, especially for young scouts, but their willingness to learn and explore the field of wildland fire management means that the future of the career is bright.

ASTORIA, OR — To address feedback received, the Department of Assessment and Taxation for Clatsop County is implementing a one-time exception to the Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) collection process to support a smooth transition under the newly adopted TLT Ordinance.

This exception applies only to bookings made prior to January 1, 2026, for stays occurring on or after January 1, 2026. Lodging providers will have an opportunity to submit a one-time additional filing prior to the rate increase, specifically for these affected bookings.

Please note:

• Rental records for these bookings will be required

• These rents will be excluded from future TLT filings

• Detailed instructions and the additional return form will be distributed in December, along with the 4th quarter filing information

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to ensure a smooth transition to the updated collection process.

Property owners, lodging operators, and intermediaries with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Clatsop County Assessment & Taxation Office. You can reach the office by email at roomtax@clatsopcounty.gov, by phone at 503-325-8522, or visit us online at clatsopcounty.gov.

###

Election Results

• Mark Hottowe was re-elected to serve as the representative for District 2.
• Darlene “De” Stickel was re-elected to serve another term representing District 6.
• Mel Netzhammer was elected to represent District 5 after his interim appointment in January 2025.

Runoff Election Process Explained

Meet the Elected Board Members

About the ESD 112 Board of Directors

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman made her first appearance in federal court yesterday after allegedly assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Lisa Miyamoto, 56, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on October 19, 2025, federal officers deployed outside the gates of the ICE facility to clear the vehicle entrance for vehicles to exit the facility. Miyamoto forcefully struck an officer with a wooden tambourine and was arrested by officers.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 36 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed near ICE facilities, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Miyamoto made her first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison. 

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

# # #

Secondary groundwater source provided supplemental water supply during a dry summer

The Portland Water Bureau has returned to providing 100% Bull Run water to Portlanders. Since July 22nd, the Portland Water Bureau has been supplementing the Bull Run supply by blending our secondary water source, groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field, with the Bull Run supply to meet customers’ needs through the dry summer.

It can take up to two weeks after a transition like this for customers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water at their taps, depending on the location.

Careful management of the groundwater system allowed us to provide clean, safe drinking water to the region despite this year’s unseasonably dry summer weather.  

“Keeping our water clean and safe during longer dry seasons means taking care of the systems that deliver it,” said Portland Water Bureau Director Quisha Light. “We’re investing in maintenance and improvements today so our community can count on reliable water no matter the weather.”

Water system investments matter  

Our ability to reliably provide clean, safe water for future generations depends on sustaining investments in our water system. Ratepayer funding makes it possible for the bureau to tap two sources of clean, reliable water to adapt to a changing environment.

Portland Water is planning a new filtration facility and pipelines to keep our water safe and abundant for the nearly one million people who depend on it today and for future generations.

“You fund this critical work every time you pay your water bill,” Light said. “Each payment is an investment in our community’s ability to maintain our resilient water system.”

Working for Water Around the Clock

It takes more than 600 highly skilled employees operating and maintaining $25 billion worth of infrastructure like pipes, pumps, tanks and reservoirs to get the water to your tap.

“Getting water to pour from a faucet seems simple,” said Director of Operations Kimberly Gupta. “But it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water.”

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 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 accommodations

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

BEND, OR — The High Desert Museum’s original exhibition Sensing Sasquatch has won the 2025 Autry Public History Prize, which recognizes exceptional work that contributes to a broader public reflection on and appreciation of the North American West.

The prize was awarded to the High Desert Museum on October 17, 2025, at the annual Western History Association Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In remarks from the Autry Prize Committee, the exhibition was praised for its “originality of work and the collaboration of the project team.” The committee also applauded Sensing Sasquatch for its “major contribution to Public History and the field of the North American West.”

The Autry Public History Prize is awarded annually. The award consists of a $1,000 prize, made possible by the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles. Past winners of the prize range from museums to libraries to state historical centers.

Blending history, art and mixed media, Sensing Sasquatch explored the cultural significance of Sasquatch across Indigenous cultures in the High Desert. In pop culture today, Sasquatch, or Bigfoot, often appears on beer cans, stickers and billboards. Yet for some Native people of the Indigenous Plateau, Sasquatch represents a story that is more profound and spiritual. Open from March 2024 through January 2025, Sensing Sasquatch challenged visitors’ perceptions, encouraging them to reconsider the conventional depictions.

“We are so proud of the collaboration and dedication of the Museum team for their research and creative spirit in producing this unique and impactful exhibition,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We worked very closely with Indigenous partners and artists to make their voices the core of Sensing Sasquatch. We are honored to have the exhibition recognized by the Western History Association and the Autry Prize Committee.”

Advisor and scholar Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D., (Nez Perce/Cayuse) and the Museum conducted research into the significance of Sasquatch to Indigenous peoples – from linguistic study to examining archival documents. The result was an exhibition that told a compelling and respectful story about the past, present and future of Sasquatch.

The Museum also commissioned five Indigenous artists to craft pieces reflecting their encounters with and perspectives on the enigmatic figure. Rocky LaRock (Salish), Charlene “Tilly” Moody (Warm Springs), Frank Buffalo Hyde (Nez Perce/Onondaga), HollyAnna CougarTracks De Coteau Littlebull (Yakama/Nez Perce/Cayuse/Cree) and Cash Cash each contributed unique artwork that sparked conversation, curiosity and wonder.

A car disappearing into a forest scene greeted visitors at the exhibition entrance. The car’s collection of stereotypical Sasquatch stickers was a contrast to the content inside the gallery, beginning with a digital language map that highlighted the diverse array of names used to refer to Sasquatch across the Indigenous Plateau.

Buffalo Hyde’s multimedia piece Enigma portrayed Sasquatch as an interdimensional being with the ability to traverse history, time and space. LaRock’s Shapeshifter mask evoked a large being emerging from the forest, and Moody’s Around Us Watching piece provided a glimpse into the forest in the shape of a Sasquatch.

Other artworks in the gallery were Cash Cash’s Sasquatch’s Rattle No. 1 and Sasquatch’s Rattle No. 2, which Sasquatch perhaps wields. In the center of the gallery stood CougarTracks DeCoteau Littlebull’s The Protector, a towering mixed media Sasquatch sculpture.

Visitors were also encouraged to use their senses as they explored the Spirit of the West Gallery. A scent station invited visitors to envision an encounter with Sasquatch through smell, and they could feel the buffalo hide used in Moody’s piece. Forest sounds filled the gallery, and the motion-activated sound from Buffalo Hyde’s Enigma delighted visitors of all ages with its deep, ground-shaking subwoofer.

Sensing Sasquatch was made possible by Visit Central Oregon Future Fund, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, Bigfoot Beverages, Bend Cultural Tourism Fund, Redmond Municipal Airport, Central Oregon Daily News, Bend Magazine, Brooks Resources Corporation, Old Mill District, and 100.7 The X, with support from Travel Oregon, Waypoint Hotel and Bend Pet Express.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

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New book uncovers the life and legacy of Father Tom Oddo, the groundbreaking priest who
championed LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Church

Vancouver, WA - The Clark County Historical Museum will host author Tyler Bieber for a
special presentation of his new book Against the Current: Father Tom Oddo and the New
American Catholic on Friday, November 14, 2025. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with the talk
beginning at 6 p.m. at the museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660.
Admission is free, though pre-registration is recommended through the museum website,
cchmuseum.org.

Father Thomas Oddo (1944 - 1989), widely known as “Father Tom,” was a pioneering figure
in LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church. In the years following the Stonewall
uprising and the Second Vatican Council, Father Tom forged new spaces for those seeking to
reconcile faith and identity. At just 29, he co-founded DignityUSA, becoming a key advocate
for civil rights within the Church. By 38, he was appointed President of the University of
Portland, where he was recognized as a rising star in higher education.

Though his life was tragically cut short at the age of 45, Father Tom’s influence continues to
shape conversations on faith, inclusion, and identity. Bieber’s Against the Current draws on
extensive interviews, personal archives, and previously unseen documents to tell the untold
story of Father Tom’s legacy. The book explores his encounters with celebrities, politicians,
and Pope John Paul II, while also delving into themes of hope, resilience, and the ongoing
struggle for equality.

This program will offer attendees an engaging look at a remarkable but often overlooked
leader whose story remains deeply relevant today.

About the Author

Tyler Bieber is a queer higher education professional based in Portland, Oregon. He has
served in leadership roles at Clark College, National University of Natural Medicine,
Linfield University School of Nursing, and Oregon School of Massage. He is currently the
Assistant Registrar at Willamette University’s Pacific Northwest College of Art. Bieber holds
a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Sciences from The Evergreen State College and an M.A. in Higher
Education and Student Affairs from the University of Portland.

Vancouver, Wash. – In 2025, Clark County’s Legacy Lands program celebrates its 40th anniversary. Since 1985, the program has protected, preserved and restored 5,500 acres of natural space. Protecting these valuable natural resources protects air, water and wildlife habitat, and provides recreational opportunities at some of the area’s most scenic locations. Popular sites that are part of the Legacy Lands portfolio include Fallen Leaf Lake, Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park and trail, Green Mountain, La Center Bottoms Wetlands, the Lacamas Heritage Trail, Lucia Falls, Mable Kerr Park, Moulton Falls, Salmon Creek Greenway, Schmid Family Park, areas on the shores of Vancouver Lake, and portions of Whipple Creek Regional Park.

Clark County Council has proclaimed October to be “Legacy Lands Month”. To celebrate the occasion, Clark County Public Works is hosting three community events.

• Oct. 22: Salmon Creek Greenway Trail guided walk. Participants will embark on a one-hour guided walk at one of the most beloved Legacy Lands locations, learning about the greenway’s history and efforts to restore water quality in Salmon Creek. Participants should meet at the west entrance to Salmon Creek Regional Park, located at 800 NE 117th St., at 5 p.m.
• Oct. 29: Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area Project Open House. Clark County and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe are partnering on a project to restore habitat along Salmon Creek and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at this former golf course, acquired through the Legacy Lands program. At the open house, project staff will share the final draft project plans and solicit feedback. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more about the open house on the project webpage.
• Nov. 8: Bird walk with Vancouver Audubon. Participants will join the Vancouver Audubon to view and learn about migrating birds, including sandhill cranes. The walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Additional details can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

More information about these events and the Legacy Lands program can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

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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Oct. 21, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8842, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Eckman Lake

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Eckman Lake in Lincoln County.

OHA issued the advisory July 31.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of saxitoxin in Eckman Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

The Centennial School District Governing Board will convene for a virtual Work Session on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. 

Please be aware there will be an Executive Session Meeting taking place (virtually) after the Work Session, beginning at approximately 7:15 pm. The Executive Session is puruant to ORS 192.660 (2)(d) - to conduct deliberations with persons designated to carrry on labor negotiations.  Members of the news media are prohibited from attending, and access is limited to authorized staff only.

All Board packet information is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page.

All attendees will participate virtually via the Zoom app.  If you are interested in joining the Work Session meeting, please click on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88530541775?pwd=ZPsqJZiCnoePBrwVUGYF9WxGiImLuQ.aXSfKuz2-_Tzid40
Passcode:501491

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

Webinar ID: 885 3054 1775
Passcode: 501491

To view the agendas and accompanying documents, click or paste this link into your browser: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/1561. The meeting agenda and associated documents may be updated as necessary.

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

(Salem) — Medicare Open Enrollment for 2026 plans began Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2025. This is the time when people with Medicare can review their current coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Medicare beneficiaries who would like to discuss their Medicare options can receive free, confidential help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) including help with comparing and selecting new Medicare plans.

The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program provides free help from counselors who can help people compare plans, understand their benefits and make informed decisions about their Medicare options. Counselors can also provide information on how to avoid becoming a victim of common scams that target people during Open Enrollment.

During the Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan,
• Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare,
• Change their Medicare Advantage Plan,
• Change or enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan, and
• Review changes in costs, coverage and provider networks.

“Choosing the right Medicare plan can have a big impact on a person’s health and finances,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as Deputy Director of Policy for the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). “SHIBA certified counselors can help make sure Oregonians have the information and support they need to make informed decisions.”

SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. The ultimate goal for scammers is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. Common scams include claiming beneficiaries need a new card or offers of free medical equipment. These scams can happen by mail, over the phone, or by text and email.

The best way to avoid Medicare scams is to keep Medicare numbers private; anyone who receives a message or email about Medicare from a number or person they do not recognize should not respond. “The safety of Oregonians is always a top priority, which includes making sure Oregonians have trusted support during Medicare Open Enrollment,” said APD Director Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D. “SHIBA counselors can help people recognize red flags and protect themselves from fraud and scams.”

How to get free help

Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments.

To talk to a SHIBA certified counselor or to make an appointment, call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free.)

Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website at SHIBA.oregon.gov.

Online resources include:

• The 2026 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans, which will be translated to multiple languages in the coming weeks.
• Medicare frequently asked questions,
• An agent locator tool,
• A list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and
• Videos to help people understand their Medicare options.

People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.

About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program

The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.

This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $736,831 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Tillamook State Forest—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) completed a stream enhancement project on Gales Creek in the Tillamook State Forest this summer to improve stream habitat and water quality.

“The goal of this project is to restore natural stream processes and instream complexity by placing large wood into the stream channel to improve physical habitat, fish production and water quality,” said Erik Moberly, Aquatic and Riparian Specialist for ODF’s State Forests Division. “The trees, some with attached root wads, that were placed will help influence the formation of pools, spawning gravels and provide cover for aquatic dependent species.”

Gales Creek is a tributary to the Tualatin River in Washington County and is home to several important fish species including Endangered Species Act-listed Coho Salmon and Winter Steelhead. Other fish in the creek include Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout and other native resident fish species.

To reduce costs, appropriately sized trees for the stream characteristics were selected from an adjacent timber sale and decked near the proposed placement sites. An excavator was used to move the trees from the log decks and place into the stream.   

“Nine individual placement sites were completed on Gales Creek and a tributary while six placement sites were completed on the North Fork Gales Creek in two days,” said Moberly. “Thirty trees with attached root wads and 54 trees without root wads were used for the entire project.”

Approximately 1,500 feet of the stream was treated on Gales Creek while approximately 1,400 feet of stream was treated on the North Fork Gales Creek.  

The total project costs were around $20,000 excluding some staff time to plan and implement the project.

This is not the first stream enhancement project in Gales Creek. In 2009, ODF partnered with Tualatin River Watershed Council (TWRC), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and Stimson Lumber Company to do work on the North Fork of Gales Creek. This was partially funded through an Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) grant obtained by the watershed council; the logs were provided by Stimson and ODF.  More than 100 logs were placed within a 1.2-mile stretch of the stream channel and surrounding floodplain.

In 2011, ODF again partnered with the TWRC and ODFW to enhance about a half mile of Gales Creek located Northwest of the Gales Creek Campground. This work was done with an OWEB grant and placed about 70 logs in the stream channel and floodplain. The work was completed by the Bottom Round Timber Sale.

“State Forest lands are actively managed under forest management plans to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians,” said Moberly. “Projects like these positively impact all three of those goals.”

 For more on Oregon’s State Forests see the ODF website.

RELEASE DATE:               Oct. 21, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-43135
 

Gresham, Ore.— Detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred in the Hood Center parking lot early Sunday morning.

Officers with Gresham Police Department responded to a report of a fight with at least one gunshot fired in the 1500 block of NE Division St., on Oct. 19, shortly after 2:30 a.m.  They found one person who had been shot and provided care until paramedics arrived. The suspect/s fled the scene prior to officers arriving. The victim has been identified as Myranda Rice, 30, of Sandy.

Gresham Police detectives are investigating the shooting. The victim was transported to an area hospital and is expected to survive.  No further information is available at this time.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Conroy at oy@greshamoregon.gov">tyson.conroy@greshamoregon.gov, reference case # 25-43135. Tips can be made anonymously by calling the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2317 or by visiting  http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com.

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Oct. 21, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, phd.communications@odhsoha.oregon.gov

Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee meets Nov. 5

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) Rules Advisory Committee (RAC)

Agenda: TBD

When: Nov. 5, 2025

Where:

• Via Zoom Meeting
  • Call in: 1-669-254-5252 (US)​
  • Meeting ID: 161 012 5185
  • Passcode: 024591

Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) are an important process that allow members of the public an opportunity to provide input on proposed administrative rules before they become effective. RACs are comprised of individuals who have subject matter expertise and members of the public who are likely to be affected by the proposed rules.

The RAC process is designed to include a diversity of opinions and viewpoints. Although RACs evaluate fiscal and racial impact of the proposed rules and make recommendations, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) retains decision making authority.

All community members will be invited to provide comments on the proposed rules during the public comment period scheduled from Dec. 1 to Dec. 22, 2025. Information about the public comment period is available on the Oregon Psilocybin Services Administrative Rules webpage and will be sent out to the OPS mailing list later this year.

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Everyone has a right to know about and use OHA programs and services. OHA provides free help.

Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the OPS team at 971-673-0322, 711 TTY, or in@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHA.Psilocybin@oha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

SALEM, Ore. — The Salem Housing Authority (SHA) is sharing information to help residents access local food resources and support services, following the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) announcement that November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) resources will be disrupted due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. SNAP benefits are provided to eligible low-income individuals and families through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card for buying groceries. As early as November 1, funds will be paused to eligible individuals and families.

“We know this news adds real worry for families already doing their best to make ends meet,” said Jessica Blakely, Deputy Director of the Salem Housing Authority. “When something as essential as food is uncertain, it impacts every part of life. We want our residents to know they’re not alone — help is out there, and we’re here to connect them to it.”

Residents in need of immediate food support are encouraged to explore the following resources:

• Call 211 for assistance connecting to local food programs and emergency services.

• Visit 211.org to locate nearby food banks, pantries, and community meal programs.
• Visit foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org to search for local food distribution sites throughout Oregon.

If you are looking for a way to help local community members impacted by the disruption, please visit https://marionpolkfoodshare.org/ways-to-give/.

“This is a difficult time for many in our community,” Blakely added. “We will continue doing everything we can to share accurate information, connect families with resources, and stand alongside those facing food insecurity.”

 

Oct. 21, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8842, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Report highlights Oregon students' unmet health needs, urgent call for support

PORTLAND, Ore. - More than one in five Oregon eighth- and 11^th-graders experienced unmet mental or physical health care needs in 2022, according to a new state Student Health Survey (SHS) report developed with Oregon youth using the most recent data available.

The findings paint a sobering picture of the challenges youth face in accessing essential care, and the critical role adults play in helping them feel heard and supported.

Key themes from the report include:

• Emotional isolation: Students with unmet mental health needs often expressed feelings of defeat and deep isolation, indicating a lack of accessible support systems and trusted adults.
• Systemic barriers: Responses cited obstacles such as lack of insurance, long wait times, transportation issues and stigma around seeking help.
• Invalidation and silence: A recurring theme in students' narratives was a sense of being dismissed or not taken seriously. Without meaningful adult intervention, many students reported that their needs were ignored or minimized.

“The data confirm what students have been saying for years: many are struggling, and they don’t feel seen,” said Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer and epidemiologist at Oregon Health Authority. “Mental and physical health are deeply interconnected, and when students can’t access care, it affects every part of their lives—including their ability to learn and thrive.”

Read the full Unmet Needs Report and learn more about the Student Health Survey.

Students report barriers to accessing health care in all phases of their lives, from individual to systemic challenges. Some students struggle to disclose or even identify their own health care needs. Those able to communicate their needs might have a hard time finding supportive adults who will validate their concerns. Adding to this are the logistical barriers of insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, transportation, age of medical consent, scheduling and limited provider availability.

The report underscores the importance of fostering environments in which students feel safe discussing their health needs and adults—parents, educators and health professionals—are empowered to listen and respond effectively.

OHA administers the anonymous, school-based survey annually, collecting responses from more than 45,000 students statewide. The students represent 85 school districts, 327 schools and 29 counties. The SHS was administered at schools between October 2022 and January 2023. Among students reporting unmet health needs, more than 4,200 responded to open-ended questions about the barriers they encountered.

Student responses reflect a complex relationship between physical and mental health. While unmet mental health needs were often reported independently, unmet physical health needs frequently involved emotional or mental health challenges—suggesting that the two cannot be addressed in isolation.

Alexis Zou, a senior at Lake Oswego High School, was a primary author of the Unmet Needs Report and a member of the Oregon Youth Data Council (YDC).

The YDC is an OHA-sponsored program that invites Oregon youth to contribute to decision-making about the survey. Members are involved in all aspects of the survey, including:

• Reviewing survey content.
• Making sense of the results.
• Deciding how to talk about and use the survey.

“It was really interesting to look at the different trends that we observed. In particular, some alarming ones that we noticed (were) that over 23% of Oregon eighth grade and 11^th-graders said that they have unmet physical and mental health needs. We also noticed that these unmet health needs were associated with missed school, so that’s a really big problem that school districts are facing right now. We also observed that many students said they felt isolated or didn’t have a trusted adult that they could reach out to,” said Zou.

Hear more from Zou here.

Call to action to support youth

Addressing barriers to care requires cooperation from individuals and institutions at each point of health care access, according to the report, and Oregon youth “deserve a sustained investment in health care infrastructure and community or school-based health services.”

Gov. Tina Kotek recently championed new investments in Oregon’s behavioral health system to ensure access to services that promote youth social and emotional wellness and prevent youth substance use disorders. These investments include $6 million to support school-based health centers (SBHCs) increase mental health services, substance use disorder screening, and prevention programs. An additional $1 million was dedicated to support culturally specific suicide prevention efforts.

Students participating in the 2022 survey also emphasized the importance of logistical and emotional support from friends, family and trusted adults to get their health needs met. Youth said social norms need to shift to address the stigma around mental health and medical care, particularly among parents, caregivers, teachers and clinicians.

For more information on supporting Oregon youth, see pages 10–14 of the Unmet Needs Report. To learn more about the Youth Data Council, visit www.oregon.gov/YDC.

OHA and partner organizations are using this data to inform policy, guide resource allocation, and develop new strategies for improving youth access to care across the state.

Identifying and addressing Oregon students’ unmet health needs aligns with OHA’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan. Among the plan’s key strategies is to “expand access to health and social services resources and supports for children, parents and families.”

BEAVERTON, Ore. – It’s not every day at Portland Community College that you can ask somebody the question, “Who did you like working with most – Barry Manilow or The Rolling Stones?” But it’s a question that needs to be asked when a person has the background of Sam Barbara.

“Both were special, but there’s no comparing anything to standing on the Staples Center stage in front of tens of thousands of people, close enough to touch Mick Jagger, and seeing the energy he still has in his 70s,” he said. “He can hold an audience in the palm of his hand. It’s inspiring to watch an artist still rocking it at that age.”

Barbara, who directs the Rock Creek Campus choir, worked with Manilow years ago at a holiday tree‑lighting event at Staples. At the University of Southern California, Barbara served as the contractor for the university’s choir, coordinating high-profile appearances, including singing at Nancy Reagan’s house, The Jay Leno Show and TV shows like “Glee.” 

“At USC, high‑profile gigs come with the territory,” Barbara said. “I got my money’s worth.” 

The notable experiences came when Barbara was working on his doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Music from USC. He was a senior teaching assistant in the Department of Choral and Sacred Music and assistant conductor of the USC Thornton Chamber Singers. He studied under renowned conductors Jo-Michael Scheibe, Cristian Grases, Nick Strimple and Donald Brinegar.

“It’s not that I set out to sing with rock musicians, but days like that happen in Los Angeles,” Barbara said. “USC really gave me access to high‑profile artists and taught me that you have to hustle and build your network if you want to make it.”

That is exactly what he is trying to instill in his 30-plus chamber choir. The PCC Music Program, which offers choir experiences at not only Rock Creek but also the Sylvania Campus, is gearing up for fall choir performances.

The slate of entertainment begins with the Rock Creek Bands and Choirs’ Midterm Performance at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 5 in The Forum at the Rock Creek Campus (17705 NW Springville Rd). In addition, the Chamber Choir and Chorus will share their voices at Portland’s beloved Grotto Festival of Lights (8840 NE Skidmore St) on Wednesday, Dec. 3, and then join Clark College to perform Bach’s Cantata 142 on Saturday, Dec. 6 at Vancouver First United Methodist Church (401 E 33rd St). The season concludes with the Rock Creek Choirs Final Concert on Wednesday, Dec. 10 in The Forum at Rock Creek. All performances are at 7 p.m.

“We’ve got strong new singers and excellent retention from last year, which creates a real synergy,” Barbara said. “I’m building a robust calendar because they deserve meaningful experiences. Collaboration is central to who I am. Opportunities also come in; we get calls for choirs at various functions, and we say yes when we can.”

PCC’s Music Program typically hosts two concerts per term, including a planned variety show that doubles as a fundraiser for the program through the PCC Foundation this winter.

“It lets students shine as soloists and as an ensemble, which are very different skills,” he said. We’re only in week three of rehearsal, and they already sound terrific. This is probably the most talented group I’ve had since before the pandemic. We’d built the program up, then March 2020 changed everything. It’s taken time, but I think we’re back.” 

Besides leading the Rock Creek Chamber and Concert choirs, he teaches applied voice and class voice courses. A native Oregonian (Medford), Barbara returned home pre-COVID after serving as Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor of Music at Westminster College in Pennsylvania.

Earlier in his career, Barbara directed choirs at Cleveland High School, where his ensembles won three Oregon State Choir Championships. He holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Portland, where he was later honored as a Fulbright Scholar in Weimar, Germany.

In addition to his teaching and conducting, he remains active as a soloist, clinician and adjudicator. His research interests include music literacy through solfège and contemporary German choral repertoire.

Faculty in PCC’s Music Program help students see the breadth of music careers. A lot goes into music education to ready students for transfer to four-year universities or gain valuable music training. The program prepares students for performance (opera, recitals) and both musical theatre and music therapy.

At the core of the Music Program is the ensemble, which is an audition‑based class. It follows a group that meets earlier in the day that is open to all students with no audition needed, focusing more on pedagogy and vocal warm‑ups. Barbara said many students take both because they love it.

“Roughly two‑thirds of our students identify as music majors taking theory, ear training and piano,” he said. “The other third come from any major and often sang in high school.”

For choir participants, who can range from fresh high school graduates to older learners auditing the class, performances are a key skill development. Besides the learning, and there is a lot of learning, the experience of being part of a choir can be meditative.

“For many, it’s the breath of fresh air that carries them through academic or economic stress,” Barbara said. “They may struggle with mental health, coursework, or finances, but the music room lets them leave that at the door and get lost in the work. It’s a community: they know each other well, share highs and lows, and learn to support one another in concert.”

For more information on PCC’s Music Program, visit www.pcc.edu/music/ 

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.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman made her first appearance in federal court yesterday after allegedly assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Elizabeth Leslie, 32, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on October 18, 2025, federal officers arrested Leslie after she lunged forward and struck an officer in the chest when officers were trying to clear a path for vehicles exiting the ICE facility.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 35 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Leslie made her first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison. 

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

# # #

OnPoint’s decision is a direct response to member needs, growth in the area

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union recently announced it is expanding its field of membership in southwest Washington to better serve its members. OnPoint has received regulatory approval to offer membership to people who live, work, worship, and/or attend school in Cowlitz and Lewis counties. This expansion builds on OnPoint’s current service area of Clark and Skamania counties.

"We are grateful to have received regulatory approval for this expansion," said Amy Reeves, SVP/regional manager, SW Washington, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "This authorization reflects our commitment to meeting the financial needs of our community and extending our member-first philosophy to more people across southwest Washington. We look forward to building relationships with members in Cowlitz and Lewis counties, providing the same quality service our members have come to expect."

8th Southwest Washington Branch Opening

OnPoint currently has seven branches in southwest Washington with more on the way. Ridgefield will be home to the newest branch slated to open the first part of 2026, reflecting the population growth in the area and desire to serve more members of the community. The branch will be at 420 N. 56th Place, Ste. 102.

# # #

About OnPoint Community Credit Union
OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 631,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com or 800-527- 3932.
 

UPDATE, Oct. 21: A previous version of this release had an incorrect website for the Arts Commission. The correct website is https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill an open position on the Clark County Arts Commission.

The opening is for an at-large representative living in unincorporated Clark County. The term is for two years and begins immediately.

The Arts Commission is made up of 11 volunteers. Each participating city appoints one member, and the county manager appoints three members representing the arts, arts education and business communities. The commission meets at 5 pm on the first Tuesday of each month.

The commission advises and collaborates with the county council and city councils and reports accomplishments to the community. Members advocate for the arts in the community, at public hearings, budget hearings and other public forums.

Anyone wishing to apply should submit a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applications also can be emailed to jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm, Friday, Nov. 14.

Learn more about the Clark County Arts Commission at https://clarkcountyartscommission.org/. 

RELEASE DATE:               October 20, 2025

CASE UPDATE:                 October 21, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-43382
 

UPDATE

James Robinson has been located.

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for assistance with locating a missing 55-year-old man, James Robinson.  Staff at James’ care facility discovered he was missing from the 800 block of NW Riverview Ave., today at about 4 p.m. James has a seizure disorder and other conditions and is missing his medication. Staff at his care home is concerned he may not know how to find his way home.

James is described a White male who is 5-feet and 7-inches tall and weighs approximately 145 pounds. He has gray hair, blue eyes and holds his arm stiff with his hand noticeably curled.  It is believed James is wearing a black sweater, black sweatpants and black shoes. James is familiar with TriMet and may go to go to the area of the 2000 block of SW Morrison St., in Portland.

Anyone who knows of James’ whereabouts is asked to call 911 or non-emergency at 503-823-3333

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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has issued two bulletins encouraging insurance companies, health care service contractors, state-regulated financial institutions, and other entities providing financial products to take measures to help people affected by the federal government shutdown.

The federal government shutdown began Oct. 1 and will continue until Congress passes a continuing resolution or other funding measure. According to the Oregon Employment Department (OED), there are approximately 30,000 workers on the federal payroll in Oregon; OED estimates 10,000 were affected by the lapse in appropriations as of Oct. 1. These employees may be either furloughed or, in some instances, required to work without pay. In either case, although back pay may eventually be available, many affected Oregon residents will likely experience at least temporary financial hardship through no fault of their own.

DFR is providing guidance to state-regulated entities to make reasonable accommodations to mitigate the adverse effects of the shutdown on Oregon residents.

“We encourage entities regulated under our jurisdiction to take active measures to provide help to their customers and policyholders that are directly affected by the federal government shutdown,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator and acting insurance commissioner. “All accommodations provided should comply with all applicable state and federal statutes and regulations.”

DFR has requested steps that include providing grace periods to premium payments, providing more time to file insurance claims, allowing more time for repayment of debts, waiving late payment penalties, postponing foreclosure actions and evictions, and negotiating with consumers to arrive at solutions under the current circumstances.

The bulletins are located on DFR’s website.

“We know the shutdown has affected thousands of families in Oregon and we are asking our regulated entities to give some grace to those who have no control over the situation they are currently in,” Keen said.

If you have questions or need to talk with one of our consumer advocates, call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or send an email to .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov or .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

SALEM, Oregon— The public is encouraged to provide feedback on the 2026 Oregon Recreational Trails Plan, which outlines trends and issues, creates priorities for grant funding and recommends actions to improve trails on public land in Oregon over the next 10 years.  

The recommendations cover all non-motorized and motorized trails on public land and waterways in Oregon, not just Oregon State Parks. Trail users, land managers, and partners are encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback from Oct. 30 to Nov. 28 online.  

They can also join a virtual open house/webinar to learn more about the plan Oct. 30 from 11 a.m. to noon. (A recording will available for those who can’t attend). Register in advance at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-4YrUfpeR2yFNBF-8Ihqpg 

“We appreciate the time and energy trail users and partners have put into helping us develop the next trails plan, which will guide investments to make our trails even better in the future,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Statewide Trails Planner Jessica Horning.   

“Each year, more than 80% of Oregonians use trails across the state, generating over $890 million in spending at local businesses and contributing to Oregon’s overall economy.” 

The Oregon Recreational Trails Plan covers non-motorized trails (hiking, biking, equestrian), motorized ATV trails, snowmobile trails, and non-motorized boating and water trails. It helps provide guidance to not only Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, but to federal, state and local agencies as well as private sector partners. 

Information for the draft plan came from multiple sources including statewide surveys of trail users and recreation providers conducted in October 2024 and April 2025, multiple follow-up focus groups with specific user groups in May, and the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which is published every five years.  

The current Oregon Statewide Trails Plan covers 2016 to 2025. Once the public review and comment period ends, staff will incorporate feedback and present the 2026 Oregon Recreational Trails Plan to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for adoption.  

For questions about the draft Oregon Trails Plan, please visit our website or contact OPRD Statewide Trails Planner Jessica Horning at .horning@oprd.oregon.gov" target="_blank">Jessica.r.horning@oprd.oregon.gov.  

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz County Fire District 2 responded to a house fire early Monday morning in the 100 block of Painter Roth Rd. Fire crews arrived at the home just after 6:15 am and reported heavy fire conditions from the back side of the home including the basement. Firefighters confirmed everyone was out of the home and attacked the fire with multiple hoselines. Fire crews were able to protect a detached garage, several cars, and a boat from catching fire. Despite their efforts, the fire spread fast and consumed the home and its contents resulting in a total loss. Firefighters used multiple water tenders to deliver water to the scene of the rural home. Cowlitz County Fire District #6 (Castle Rock), Fire District #5 (Kalama), and Cowltiz County Public Utilities also responded to the fire to assist. The fire was knocked down just before 7:30 and continued to smolder through the morning due to access issues once the walls of the home colapsed.

The residents, an adult male and adult female were alerted by smoke detectors, evacuated the home, and called 911 from their neighbors house. They will be staying with friends and family, with their dog, in the area. No injuries were reported, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

DALLAS (OR) – Michael Jay Terrance Cole, 43, has been sentenced to serve 43 months (3 years, 7 months) in prison for stealing the personal identification information of a Monmouth area victim and then using it to fraudulently open a credit account in the victim’s name.

Cole, of Madras, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge Don Abar, after pleading guilty to the sole count of Identity Theft stemming from an incident in which the suspect had gained access to the victim’s confidential information during a break-in at relative’s home in Prineville.  Judge Abar sentenced Cole according to Oregon’s Repeat Property Offender sentencing law, which increased Cole’s sentence due to the crime he was convicted of combined with his lengthy history of property crimes. He will also be required to serve a one-year term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

The case was investigated by the Monmouth Police Department. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man, who is a registered sex offender, was sentenced to federal prison today for possession of over 200 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

David Lee Cannon, 36, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and a life term of supervised release.

According to court documents, in February 2024, law enforcement officials discovered Cannon was collecting CSAM images during an investigation into Cannon’s uncle. Cannon sought images from his uncle over Telegram, an encrypted messaging application. Additional evidence of CSAM material was found after a search of Cannon’s devices.

Cannon is a registered sex offender after a 2009 conviction for possessing CSAM material.

“The pursuit of individuals who exploit and abuse children is our highest priority,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “With today’s sentence, Mr. Cannon will spend the next 10 years behind bars, unable to victimize any other children.”

“HSI leverages advanced technology and every resource within its legal authority to identify, investigate, and bring to justice those who possess child exploitation and sexual abuse material,” said April Miller, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge. “Our unwavering commitment is to protect the most vulnerable and ensure that those who prey on children are held accountable.”

Cannon was arrested in Milwaukie, Oregon, after HSI agents tracked his cellphone.

Cannon was charged by information on April 28, 2025. On June 26, 2025, Cannon pleaded guilty to Possession of Child Pornography.

This case was investigated by HSI with assistance from Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mira Chernick and Paul Maloney.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

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.

 # # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants to fill up to five seats on a fifteen-person board that advises the county on matters related to the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

Applicants with railroad or railroad-related experience, or business experience using freight-rail service, are desired.

Board members serve three-year terms. Terms are anticipated to begin after Jan. 1, 2026.

Those interested should submit a letter of interest and/or resume to ailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov">PWRailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov or by mail to 4700 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665.

More information about the Railroad Advisory Board is available on the county’s website.

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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Vancouver, Wash. – Starting today, the City is seeking proposals from qualified nonprofit Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) to administer its new Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) to promote economic development in underserved communities.

“This fund is a critical step toward expanding economic opportunity in communities that have historically faced barriers to growth,” said Small Business and Entrepreneurship Program Manager Victor Saldanha. “By partnering with a nonprofit CDFI, we are increasing access to capital while laying the groundwork for a locally rooted financial institution that can serve Vancouver’s small businesses for years to come.”
 

The RLF will be initially capitalized using $1.2 million originally received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The fund’s primary purpose is to increase access to capital for businesses unable to secure traditional financing. 
 

The Revolving Loan Fund is part of the City’s Fourth Plain for All Investment Strategy and the recently adopted Five-Year Economic Development Strategy. The fund will initially promote economic development within the Fourth Plain Investment Area but eventually be citywide.   

The City intends to contract with a nonprofit CDFI to administer the RLF, including securing additional capital to grow the lending capacity of the fund and assist the City in identifying a community-based organization and help them in build the necessary infrastructure, skills, and resources to become a certified nonprofit CDFI with the long-term goal of a local partner independently managing the RLF.

Interested parties can find Request for Proposal, application instructions and proposal packets at cityofvancouver.bonfirehub.com. Proposals must be submitted through the City’s procurement portal no later than Dec. 10 at 3:00 p.m. (PST).

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Jackson County, Ore. (Oct. 20, 2025)- On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 2:44 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus bicycle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 4, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Freightliner recreational vehicle (motorhome), operated by Richard Fay McCoy (57) of Central Point, struck a bicyclist, Wesley Mad Olngellel (37) of Central Point, who was in the eastbound lane of travel.

The operator of the bicycle (Olngellel) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner was uninjured. 

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

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

# # #

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 (Oct. 20, 2025)- On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:34 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 15, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota Corolla, operated by Candida Rodriguez (51) of Gresham, entered the highway from SE Amisigger Road and attempted to turn eastbound onto Highway 224. The Toyota entered the path of a westbound Dodge Ram 2500, operated by Kirk Andrew Friedman (59) of Portland, causing a side impact collision. 

The operator of the Toyota (Rodriguez) was declared deceased at the scene. Two passengers of the Toyota, Nathon Zintkala Melbourne (32) of Portland and a female juvenile (13), suffered minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The operator of the Dodge (Friedman) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas 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.

Linn County, Ore (Oct. 20, 2025)- On Friday, October 17, 2025, at 4:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 23, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Subaru Outback, operated by Katherine Elizabeth Spellman (19) of Longmont (CO), entered the highway from Liberty Road and was attempting to turn westbound onto Highway 20. The Subaru entered the path of an eastbound Harley Davidson Road King, operated by Jeremy Wayne Smith (46) of Lebanon, causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Smith) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger of the Harley Davidson, Delana Ann Marie Smith (45) of Lebanon, was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Subaru (Spellman) was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital. A passenger of the Subaru, Shasta Faith Levin (18) of Winston, was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Sweet Home 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.

UPDATE:  Search for Missing Man (Thomas Weightman) Suspended

October 20, 2025

On the evening of Sunday, October 19^th, 2025 the search for missing person Thomas Weightman was suspended.  The search for Thomas has been underway since Tuesday, October 14^th, 2025.  Thomas was reported missing by his family after he left for a walk and did not return.  Officers were able to initially make brief contact with Thomas by cellphone.  Thomas said he fell and was unsure of his location.  Officers attempted to locate Thomas utilizing his cellphone information but were unsuccessful.

Over the six-day search, approximately 800 personnel responded and assisted in attempting to locate Thomas.  The incident has been turned back over to Forest Grove Police Department Detectives.  This is standard procedure and foul play is not suspected. 

This is an ongoing investigation and updates will be released as they become available.  Anyone who sees Thomas is asked to call 911.  Anyone with information that is not time sensitive is asked to call non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

The Forest Grove Police Department would first and foremost like to thank the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for leading the search and rescue efforts.  The search also included assistance from the Hillsboro Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Hood River Sheriff’s Office, Pacific Northwest Search and Rescue, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Civil Air Patrol, Mountain Wave Rescue, Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Federal Partners, Oregon State Police and Wasco County Sheriff’s Office.

The Gervais School District #1 School Board & the Gervais City Council will convene in joint meeting at District Office Conference via ZOOM on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda for the joint meeting includes the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

Discussion Items:

• Student Population Trends
• City Housing Development Plans/Potential
• School Improvement Project and Plans
• Other City/School Related Topics and Concerns and Planning

When: Oct 23, 2025 07:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Topic:  Joint Gervais City Council and Gervais School District #1 Board of Directors Work Session

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89598087290?pwd=bvIEdxAMfVN3XGbGClwDPA03I7ZCAb.1

Passcode:446113

SALEM, Ore. — The Adaptive Management Program Committee will meet at 1:15 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 27 in the Ag Science Room, LaSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Follow up to joint meeting with IRST
• Address IRST questions on Amphibians package – This is a substantial decision

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ogram@odf.oregon.gov">adaptivemanagementprogram@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee The Adaptive Management Program Committee helps determine if forest practices are meeting their goals to protect natural resources through a science-based and transparent process. The committee sets the research agenda that the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) implements. View more information on the AMPC webpage.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 10/23/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS October 23, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/87931930355
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 253 215 8782, +8 793 193 0355, +1 346 248 7799

The Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a fire alarm at 4808 NW Fruit Valley Rd in Vancouver just before 0500 AM this morning. This incident was upgraded to a full commercial structure response after an someone called 911 stating there might be a small fire on the roof of the building. First arriving crews made access to the roof and found a small fire that was mostly extinguished. Firefighters used chain saws to cut away roofing material to ensure the fire was extinguished.  Most of the units were cleared without assignment. No injuries were reported. The business remains open and in full operation. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office. No pictures or videos are available at this time. 

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue crews responded to a commercial fire at Kona Kids Dentistry, located in Tigard, shortly after 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 19.

First-arriving crews found a one-story standalone dental office with heavy smoke showing from all sides. Intense heat had already caused multiple windows to fail, and gusty winds contributed to rapid fire growth within the structure. The incident was upgraded to a second alarm to bring in additional resources and personnel to prevent the fire from spreading.

Firefighters initiated an aggressive fire attack, deploying multiple hose lines while truck crews worked to ventilate the building from the roof. Their coordinated efforts successfully brought the fire under control in a relatively short period.

The building sustained significant fire and smoke damage throughout the premises and is likely a complete loss. No injuries were reported. Special efforts were made during firefighting operations to rescue the fish in a tank located inside the building, and reports are that all fish were successfully protected and then later evacuated by a local aquarium company. Fire investigators are continuing to work on an active investigation into the cause of the fire. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Tigard Police and AMR.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Army National Guard Col. Philip R. DeMontigny was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the Oregon National Guard during a ceremony held in his honor at the W.D. Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon, on October 19, 2025.

The Presiding Officer for the ceremony was Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, described a long list of DeMontigny’s accomplishments with family, friends, co-workers, and other guests in attendance.

“Phil, your promotion to Brigadier General represents the culmination of nearly three decades of exceptional service, but it also marks the beginning of new responsibilities and opportunities,” Gronewold said. “You have earned this rank through your dedication, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to those you lead.”

DeMontigny currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard and has served in the Active Duty Army, Army Reserves, and Army National Guard. He began his military career when he enlisted as an infantryman in March of 1996, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York.

In his civilian career, DeMontigny retired in 2024 after 23 years serving with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. He now works as the Agency Risk and Emergency Manager for the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services.

Brig. Gen. DeMontigny’s military education culminated with a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. War College in 2019, and he currently resides in Olympia, Washington.

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Released Images: 

251019-Z-CH590-1002: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon (left) and Col. Philip R. DeMontigny right) stand for the playing of the National Anthem at the official promotion ceremony to Brigadier General for DeMontigny on October 19, 2025, held at the Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon. DeMontigny currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard. (Army National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

251019-Z-CH590-1014: Oregon Army National Guard’s newly promoted Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny takes the oath of office, administered by Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, during his promotion ceremony on October 19, 2025, at Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon. DeMontigny was accompanied by his wife, Dr. Amanda Bielawski, for the oath of office, as he currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard. (Army National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

251019-Z-CH590-1019:Oregon Army National Guard Col. Philip R. DeMontigny is officially pinned to the rank of Brigadier General with the assistance of his son Alek and daughter Grace, and joined by his wife, Dr. Amanda Bielawski, during his official promotion ceremony held at the Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon, on October 19, 2025. DeMontigny currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard. (Army National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

251019-Z-CH590-1082: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, delivers his remarks as the Presiding Officer for the newly promoted Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny during his promotion ceremony held at the Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon, on October 19, 2025. DeMontigny currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard. (Army National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

251019-Z-CH590-1168: Newly Promoted Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny delivers his formal remarks for those in attendance at his promotion ceremony on October 19, 2025, at the Jackson Armory in Portland, Oregon. DeMontigny currently serves as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard. (Army National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Kaiser Permanente is resuming normal operations with a focus on the continued delivery of high-quality, affordable care to our members and communities. We welcome back the 30,000 Alliance-represented employees who are returning from the 5-day strike that ended at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 19.   

We are deeply grateful to our front-line care teams who leaned in to ensure the continuity of outstanding patient care last week. Our facilities were staffed by physicians, experienced managers, and trained staff, along with nearly 6000 contracted nurses, clinicians, and others who worked with us during the strike.  

Together these teams enabled Kaiser Permanente to minimize disruption and ensure our patients experienced the highest levels of care quality.  

Kaiser Permanente and the Alliance have jointly agreed to resume bargaining on October 22–23. The focus will be on economic issues. While the Alliance has publicly emphasized staffing and other concerns, wages are the reason for the strike and the primary issue in negotiations.    

We recognize our employees’ hard work and have offered a strong contract proposal that includes 21.5% in total base wage increases over four years, and enhances their high-value medical plans and retiree benefits.  

At a time when the cost of health care continues to go up steeply, and millions of Americans are having to make the difficult choice to go without coverage, it’s critical that we keep quality, accessible health care coverage affordable – while attracting and retaining top talent and keeping Kaiser Permanente a great place to work and receive care. Our offer does all this. 

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