Case: 20CR55526                                                                      December 17, 2025                                    

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Marshall, on December 16, 2025 sentenced Abdikadir Mohamed Osman to 12 years in prison for shooting and killing one man and threatening his brother with the gun.

Following a 6-day trial, the jury convicted Osman on the charge of Manslaughter in the Second Degree with a Firearm, Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm, and Menacing.  In addition, the court convicted Osman of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Multnomah County Chief Deputy District Attorney Todd Jackson and Senior Deputy District Attorney Brian Davidson prosecuted the case.  After the sentencing, Chief Deputy District Attorney Todd Jackson said: 

“This was a senseless act of violence that resulted in the death of Shawn Fujioka.  I hope this outcome will bring some peace and closure to his family.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Travis Law and the Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Detail for their thorough investigation on this case. 

MCDA would also like to recognize the care and compassion shown to the victims by MCDA Victim Advocate Souk Kanhalikham.

THE FACTS:

On October 6, 2020, Shawn Fujioka and his brother drove from their home in Carrolls, Washington to Portland. They came to the city as a belated birthday celebration and shopping trip. The brothers paid for a hotel room that night. Someone they hoped to sell a jacket to came over to the room and also invited many others to join in the party. At one point, the victim and the man he planned to sell the coat to began to fight. It stopped but then began again, which brought the other man’s friend, the defendant over to intervene. He pulled a gun and when challenged by the victim, shot the victim in the chest. He then pointed the firearm at the victim’s brother threatening to shoot him as well.  The defendant fled the scene following the shooting.

                                                     ###MCDA###

 The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) Education Foundation (“Foundation”) presented Roger Busse with the 2025 Financial Education Champion Award during a banking industry event held on Dec. 11 in Portland. Presented every other year, this award honors an individual or organization whose commitment to financial education is strengthening Oregon’s future. Busse’s impact stands out as truly exceptional.

Roger Busse currently serves as the James F. and Shirley J. Rippey Professor of Practice at the University of Oregon’s (UO) Lundquist College of Business—a role he embraced after completing a distinguished 47-year banking career. His industry leadership included serving as president and CEO of Pacific Continental Bank, and in recognition of his contributions to the banking sector and his community, he was inducted into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame in 2018. In addition to his work in education, Busse serves on the board of directors of Citizens Bank in Corvallis, further demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the banking profession.

Since transitioning into education, Busse has devoted his second act to preparing the next generation of bankers. Over the past five years, he has taught more than 1,195 students through the Foundation-supported commercial banking program at the University of Oregon. Demand for his course has surged, with the university now offering two full sections every term and a waitlist exceeding 40 students this fall alone.

His classroom has become one of the most effective banking talent pipelines in the state. More than 28% of his students—over 335 graduates—have gone on to careers in banking, one of the highest career-placement outcomes of any individual course of any size at any university. This level of impact has made Busse’s program one of Oregon’s most reliable sources of emerging bank talent.

Busse’s success stems from intentional collaboration with Oregon banks, ensuring students learn practical, real-world banking skills that translate directly to the workplace. His passion for mentorship has led many students to cite his course as the moment they discovered a calling to the profession. In 2023, his commitment to teaching excellence was recognized with the University of Oregon’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award.

Beyond his work at UO, Busse also extends his expertise to students at Oregon State University and George Fox University, broadening the reach of quality banking education across the state.

“Roger exemplifies everything the Financial Education Champion Award represents,” said OBA President and CEO Scott Bruun. “His generosity, expertise, and deep belief in banking as a community-serving profession are shaping stronger students, stronger communities, and a stronger future for Oregon banking.”

The OBA Education Foundation congratulates Roger Busse on this well-deserved honor.

HIGHWAY 229 LANDSLIDE UPDATE – 03
 

The landslide is still settling and has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The impacted area remains in a LEVEL THREE – GO NOW evacuation order. Due to the dangerous nature of the situation and unstable ground, community members are asked to stay out of the impacted area. Accessing these areas put yourself and first responders at risk. Heavy rains are expected to worsen conditions and carry additional risk.

Local and state partners are monitoring the slide and are making plans for emergency response as the situation develops. Experts are not able to fully assess the full impact of this landslide until it has settled and is stable.
 

Debris from the landslide has entered the Siletz River and is washing up along the riverbanks, Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members should use caution if they choose to climb on, move, or disturb debris. It may be unstable or hazardous. With the loss of two homes, personal items may also begin to appear. Sheriff Shanks commented “Our community members are eager to help comfort those that have lost their homes and are motivated to clean up some of the debris.” During this period of uncertainty with the landslide and expected weather, it is crucial community members remain safe. “We share empathy for those affected and ask that any found personal items or items of value be reported to local law enforcement so we can work on returning meaningful possessions to our community members.” Sheriff Shanks said.

If you discover items with personal identification or items that appear to be personal belongings, please report them to local law enforcement through the non-emergency line:

• Lincoln City Police Department non-emergency: 541-994-3636
• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency: 541-265-0777

There currently no threats to Public Drinking Water Systems positioned downstream from the slide on Hwy 229. Oregon Drinking Water Services through Oregon Health Authority (OHA) continues to monitor the public drinking water system for safety. If your domestic well may have been compromised or you are unsure of your water quality follow these steps from OHA: www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/drinkingwater/operations/pages/shockchlorination.aspx
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s EOC remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners on the developing situation. Updates will be provided as they become available.
 

Additional Information on the Landslide or to Inform Your Safety and Travel Plans:

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
  • Sign up for Lincoln Alerts to receive direct updates: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
  • Media Releases: flashalert.net/id/LCSO
  • Facebook Pages:  https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/ or www.facebook.com/lcemergencymanagement/
• Monitor weather conditions at weather.org
• Follow updates from ODOT:
  • ODOT News Releases: www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx
  • ODOT Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/OregonDOT

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Vancouver, Wash. Clark County Public Works is seeking applicants for multiple open volunteer park host positions. Park hosts live at a county park and perform basic maintenance, operations and security duties. Public Works is currently seeking applicants for:

• A year-round position at Klineline Pond at Salmon Creek Regional Park
  • The host at this location must live in the county-owned residence
  • This host’s duties also include the softball fields area of the park
• A year-round position serving Prairie Fields and Curtin Creek Community Park
  • The host in this position must live in the county-owned residence at Prairie Fields
  • This host’s duties also include the new Curtin Creek Community Park; the host will be reimbursed mileage for use of their personal vehicle to travel between the two park locations
• A seasonal (March through September) position at Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park
  • The host in this position must provide their own recreational vehicle to reside in
  • This host’s duties also include Vancouver Lake Regional Park; the host will be reimbursed mileage for use of their personal vehicle to travel between the two park locations

All hosts, whether residing in a county-owned residence or their own recreational vehicle on an RV pad in the park, are provided with basic utilities: water, sewer, electricity, garbage/recycling.

Volunteer park hosts live at their assigned park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Host duties include (but are not limited to): 

• Cleaning park restrooms daily and as needed in response to messes
• Opening park gates by 7 a.m. and closing gates at dusk (one half-hour after sunset) daily
• Notifying park users when the park is closing
• Emptying park garbage cans at least once daily, and as needed
• Picking up litter daily
• Notifying staff of emergencies, urgent maintenance needs or impacts of severe weather
• Helping to identify and respond to safety and security concerns in the park
   

A host may be offered a term for the next calendar year based on results of a performance evaluation performed in the late summer or early fall. 

Applicants offered positions must submit to state and federal background checks and fingerprinting, provide a rental history and proof of renter’s insurance that meets program requirements. Hosts required to drive their personal vehicles to perform duties at another park site must also provide proof of automobile insurance. The program includes requirements regarding pets, guests, absences, etc. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to read the park host policies and procedures, posted on the volunteer program webpage, before applying.

More information about these positions, the volunteer park host program policies, requirements, minimum qualifications, duties, and more can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#volunteer-park-host.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#volunteer-park-host. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Paper applications, translated application materials, interpretation services, and other accommodations are available upon request to Cindy Gonzalez, volunteer program coordinator, at cindy.gonzalez@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.1679.

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.

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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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Today, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received information from the Beaverton Police Department that officers located 58-year-old Kellie Fuller.

Fuller was found while riding TriMet.

Fuller did not appear to be injured but agreed to a medical evaluation at a local hospital.

No further information is being released.

MCSO would like to thank community members and specifically the Beaverton Police Department for their assistance.

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----ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW-----

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 58-year-old Kellie Fuller who is diagnosed with dementia and is unable to care for herself.  Ms. Fuller was last seen around 2:00pm on December 13, 2025 in the parking lot of the Troutdale Safeway, located at 25691 SE Stark St.  At the time of her disappearance, Ms. Fuller was wearing a black jacket, black polo shirt, blue jeans and bright purple Adidas shoes.  Ms. Fuller is a white female, 4’11” tall, weighs 120 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes.

If you see Ms. Fuller, please call 911 immediately.  If you have other information regarding Ms. Fuller’s whereabouts, please call the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office at 503-988-7300 and reference case 25-49169.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE CORRECTION BELOW

Christmas Ships Parade Enters Final Week with 6 Nights of Holiday Magic Remaining

71st Annual Parade Continues Through December 21 on Pacific Northwest Waters

Portland, OR – December 16, 2025 – The Christmas Ships Parade, the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States, enters its final week tonight with six spectacular nights remaining in its 71st season. Over 70 beautifully decorated and illuminated boats continue their journey along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, offering free viewing opportunities for families throughout the Portland metro area.

"We're so excited to share these final six magical nights with our community," said Kelly Marks, Christmas Ships Parade representative. "Whether you've been coming for decades or this is your first time, we can't wait to see you along the shore. There's truly nothing like experiencing these twinkling boats together under the winter sky—these shared experiences, it's what the holiday season is all about."

"The love and energy we feel from everyone watching makes all the hard work worthwhile," said Kat Pettersen, Christmas Ships President. "When we see families bundled up on the docks, hear the kids shouting with excitement, and watch people waving from the shore—that connection is pure magic. We're so grateful to everyone who comes out to celebrate this tradition with us."

REMAINING PARADE NIGHTS: December 16-21

The parade continues visiting multiple locations including North Portland Harbor, the Vancouver Waterfront, Lake Oswego, and areas along both the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Weeknight parades launch from Riverplace Marina on the Willamette and the M James Gleason Boat Ramp on the Columbia.

View the complete schedule with viewing location suggestions at www.christmasships.org/parade-schedule.

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES THIS WEEK

Meet & Greet Open Houses at Riverplace Public Docks:

• SATURDAY, December 20: 8:00-10:00 PM
• SUNDAY, December 21: 2:00-4:30 PM (Final day of season)

Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the annual toy drive benefiting children in need.

ABOUT THE CHRISTMAS SHIPS PARADE

The Christmas Ships Parade is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States. Designated as an Oregon Heritage Tradition (one of only 28 in the state), the parade has been brightening Pacific Northwest waters since 1954.

Notable Facts:

• Travels approximately 345 nautical miles during a typical season
• Passes by more than 80 miles of shoreline each year
• Features boats ranging from 14 to 65 feet, including motor and sail boats
• All participants are volunteers who design and fabricate their own unique displays
• Partners annually with Columbia River Fire & Rescue and Portland Fire Toy and Joy Makers for toy collection

The Christmas Ships Parade is an independent nonprofit organization, not subsidized by or affiliated with any city, county, or municipal entity. All Christmas Shippers are volunteers who receive no reimbursement and pay for their own expenses.

VIEWING INFORMATION

Admission is FREE. The parade is visible from numerous shoreline locations along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Many restaurants, hotels, and businesses offer excellent indoor viewing opportunities. Complete route details and viewing location suggestions are available at www.christmasships.org.

Note: The Christmas Ships Parade does not offer rides on participating boats.

SUPPORT THE TRADITION

As a volunteer-run nonprofit, the Christmas Ships Parade relies on community support to offset operational expenses. Donations can be made at www.christmasships.org.

PRESENTING SPONSORS: Boreas Group, Portland Spirit, RiverPlace Marina

PREMIER SPONSORS: Pacific Lifestyle Homes, Fidelity Investments

SUPPORTING SPONSORS: Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront, The Cove, Fred's Marina, Boat Insurance Agency, Dr. Jared Bowyer, Hotel Indigo, Residence Inn Downtown/RiverPlace, Salty's on the Columbia, Island Style Charters, The Old Spaghetti Factory, Portland River Tours, Scovare Expeditions, Stevens Water Monitoring Systems, The Electric Boat Company, The Courtney Irvin Foundation

SOCIAL MEDIA:
Twitter: @ChristmasShips
Facebook: christmasship.parade
Instagram: christmasships

ABOUT CHRISTMAS SHIPS, INC.
Christmas Ships, Inc. is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit comprised of dedicated individuals who value the uniqueness inherent to humanity. The organization is committed to bringing festive joy to the Pacific Northwest community during the holiday season.

GRESHAM, Ore.— Today, Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall issued a personal, heartfelt message to the community in response to feedback and concerns related to federal immigration enforcement.

“Working alongside my colleagues on City Council, we have taken steps to bring clarity at the local level while continuing to call for real action from the state and federal government,” Stovall says in the statement. “Broad, indiscriminate actions from far away do not make communities safer. Too often, they create confusion, fear, and harm for people who are simply trying to live their lives, work hard, and care for their families.”

Mayor Stovall’s message underscores Gresham City Council’s commitment to identifying and moving forward with helpful local action while encouraging federal leaders to enact meaningful immigration reform.

You can read Mayor Stovall’s full statement at GreshamOregon.gov/news.

#     #     #

About Gresham:  

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov.

For video of woodstoves in use and battery-backed -up carbon monoxide alarms, click here.

December 16, 2025

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

Oregon Health Authority urges caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning during winter months

Salem, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Oregon Hazards Lab at the University of Oregon (OHAZ) have entered a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formally establishes a statewide collaboration to improve early detection, monitoring, and response to natural hazards across Oregon.

The agreement aligns operations, research, and practices between the two organizations, supporting shared goals of reducing risk, protecting communities, and building a more resilient future for the state. The agreement also represents a direct outcome of the Oregon Wildfire Detection Camera Interoperability Committee that serves Oregon by coordinating a broad consortium of fire agencies, first responders, utility companies, and technology operators.

Under the MOU, ODF and OHAZ will coordinate efforts on legislative strategy and funding pursuits, expand access to emerging tools and scientific expertise, and develop collaborative pilot projects. The partnership emphasizes interoperability, training, exchange of data and best practices.

“This collaboration advances Oregon’s ability to respond to wildfire, seismic threats, floods, and other natural hazards with the best tools and information available,” said Leland O’Driscoll, the Director of OHAZ. “By partnering with ODF, we can strengthen statewide systems that protect lives, property, and natural resources.”

The partnership reflects a broader vision: that clear, coordinated arrangements among Oregon’s public agencies and research institutions enhance transparency, accountability, and reliability during critical events. By integrating scientific innovation with on-the-ground operational expertise, ODF and OHAZ aim to improve hazard monitoring and early detection statewide.

“Oregonians benefit when universities, government agencies, and public partners work from a shared understanding and aligned goals,” said Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief. “This agreement enables meaningful collaboration—from research to real-time operations—to help communities prepare for and respond to hazards more effectively.”

As Oregon continues to face increasing risks from wildfire, extreme weather, and geological hazards, this collaboration will help advance proactive strategies and better equip the state with timely, actionable information.

12/16/2025 2:00 PM

Lieutenant Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6556 / cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

Police Activity in the 800-Block of NW 23^rd St

Corvallis, OR - At approximately 8:30 a.m. today, Corvallis Police Department officers, along with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office entry team, were in the 800-block of NW 23rd Street attempting to serve a search warrant related to a stolen firearm.

During the execution of the warrant, the situation escalated into a barricaded, armed subject situation. Out of caution, nearby residents were evacuated, and law enforcement established a safety perimeter.

For the protection of the community and first responders at the scene, the Linn County Regional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team was requested to assist.

At 12:15 p.m. the situation was resolved. No ongoing threat to the community exists currently.

Investigators from the Corvallis Police Department will remain in the area to conduct follow-up investigation.

Additional information will be released when it becomes available and appropriate.

The future Bull Run filtration facility will eliminate one annual tradition for Portlanders: a harmless seasonal change in the appearance of our drinking water.

As fall rains return and refill the Bull Run reservoirs, some Portlanders are seeing a slight color change in their drinking water. This is a normal occurrence and doesn’t affect the safety of our drinking water. Heavy rains wash organic material like leaves into the streams and reservoirs in the Bull Run Watershed. This can cause a slight tea-like tint in tap water and stain water filters in homes and businesses.

One of the many whys behind filtration

Avoiding seasonal discoloration in our drinking water is just one of filtration’s many benefits. By building a new, seismically resilient filtration facility, we are making an  important investment in improved water quality. The new Bull Run filtration facility will help us treat for Cryptosporidium, storm-related turbidity, emerging climate-related risks, and, yes, the organic material that causes discolored water.

“Filtration will give us a powerful tool for addressing current and emerging risks to our drinking water system. It is a generational investment in the safety and reliability of Portland’s water,” said Water Bureau Operations Director Kimberly Gupta.

If you have discolored water that is not a yellow tint, please report it to the Water Quality Line. Water that is brown or darker than a tint—more like coffee than tea in color—may be caused by something else happening in your neighborhood.

Quicker recovery

The new filtration facility will remove sediment from our water and allow us to safely serve Bull Run water after a fire or extreme weather event. Heavy rains can wash dirt, bits of plants, ash, and other organic material into our streams and reservoirs. This can be more pronounced following a wildfire. The Bull Run is currently unfiltered. Right now, if large amounts of dirt or organic material enter our supply, we can’t safely serve the water.

Once the filtration facility is up and running, our upgraded multistep treatment process will help address turbidity (sediment suspended in water) and other potential impacts to our water supply that can result from a fire, a landslide, volcanic activity, or a large storm.

Filtration will not only provide stronger supply resilience—it will also help Portland comply with federal and state safe drinking water regulations today and in the future. The Water Bureau is required to build the filtration facility to remove the microorganism Cryptosporidium from our water.

The Water Bureau is working under a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority to have the new facility in operation by September 2027.

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

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is launching the OEM Grants platform on December 16, 2025. This new, statewide system is designed to simplify how organizations approved for grants manage and track Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) funding after disasters. The platform will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in Oregon’s long-term recovery efforts.

Under the new process, subapplicants will continue to use FEMA’s Public Assistance Grants Portal (GP) to apply for funding, upload required documentation for project development, and work through eligibility and requirements with FEMA. Once FEMA approves a project, management will transition to the OEM Grants platform.

Within the new system, grant recipients will be able to:

• Manage projects from grant award through closeout
• Submit and track reimbursement requests
• Track and report grant finances
• Communicate and collaborate directly with OEM staff

“Oregon communities depend on timely and transparent access to disaster recovery funding, and this new platform helps ensure we can meet that responsibility,” Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, said. “By modernizing how we manage Public Assistance grants, we are strengthening our partnerships with certain nonprofits, as well as local and Tribal governments. We are also improving how we support communities throughout their recovery.”

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters regardless of cause. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

December 16, 2025

Media Inquiries: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov  

Oregon reduces barriers to birth control for Medicaid members

Oregon Health Plan members will be able to obtain birth control and emergency contraception without a prescription and at no cost starting Dec. 16

SALEM, Ore. – Starting today, Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid) members will be able to get over-the-counter birth control pills, including Opill, and emergency contraception at no cost at pharmacies in the state. Oregon Health Authority (OHA), in collaboration with the Oregon Board of Pharmacy, made this possible through a standing order, which allows pharmacists to provide these medications to OHP members and bill OHP.

“Access to reproductive health care should not depend on how much money you make or what kind of insurance you have,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This step ensures that Oregon Health Plan families can get timely, affordable birth control. I will keep working to make sure every Oregonian can access the care they need to make the decisions that are right for them.”

In Oregon, these medications are already covered without a prescription for people with private insurance. Federal law, however, requires that all medications for Medicaid enrollees be prescribed by a licensed practitioner who is enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program. Oregon’s new standing order means that OHP members will no longer have to get a prescription to access these contraceptives at no cost.

“This change removes a real and unnecessary barrier to care,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “By allowing Oregon Health Plan members to get safe, effective contraception directly from pharmacies – without a prescription and at no cost to themselves – we are closing a longstanding gap between private insurance and Medicaid and ensuring all people in Oregon have greater control over their own reproductive health.”

Over-the-counter emergency contraception has been widely available for several years, and the FDA approved Opill as the first birth control pill for over-the-counter use in 2023. Previously, however, OHP members were required to pay out of pocket or else seek out a doctor’s appointment for a prescription to get these medicines covered.

Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act (RHEA) requires that many health plans offered in Oregon, including all plans offered through the Marketplace, cover over-the-counter contraceptives at no cost. Some private insurance plans that are not subject to Oregon insurance laws may not include this coverage, so people with private insurance should contact their insurance company for more information about their coverage. Additional information can be found on the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) web page.  

How OHP members can get access:

• OHP members can go to their approved pharmacy and request emergency contraception or Opill, and for it to be covered by OHP.
• Most OHP members get their benefits through a local Coordinated Care Organization (CCO); OHP members can call their CCO and ask which pharmacy to go to.
• OHP members not in a CCO (known as OHP Open Card), or who do not know which CCO they’re in, can call OHP Client Services for help at 800-273-0557. 
• OHP members will need to provide their OHP ID number, which is on their OHP ID card or CCO ID card, or by providing personal information that enables the pharmacy staff to search for and confirm enrollment in OHP. 

Additional information is available on the OHP member webpage.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — For the ninth year, members of the Northwest Attractions Alliance (formerly the Portland Attractions Marketing Alliance or PAMA) will offer reciprocal admission benefits to its members. The program was created as a way to show appreciation for each attraction’s loyal members as well as highlight the important role that cultural organizations play in their communities. The program has grown from 12 participating attractions to now include 29 regional attractions throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

From January through December 2026, membership to one of the participating organizations is the key to free admission for a member and three guests of any age to different featured attractions each month.

Memberships provide critical funding that allows each participating organization to further its mission. Join one (or more!) of the participating organizations to show your support for these immersive educational institutions. Or, purchase a gift membership as the perfect holiday gift!

Mark your calendar for the 2026 reciprocal admission schedule. Offer applies to all membership levels. Valid proof of membership and photo ID required. 

2026 Reciprocal Admission Schedule

January

Albany Regional Museum
Oregon Zoo

February

Clark County Historical Museum

Columbia River Maritime Museum
Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Leach Botanical Garden

March

Cannon Beach History Center
Cascade Locks Historical Museum
Pittock Mansion

April

Deepwood Museum & Gardens
Willamette Heritage Center

May

Architectural Heritage Center
Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education
Two Rivers Heritage Museum

June

Museum at Warm Springs
Shelton McMurphy Johnson House

July

Benton County Historical Society
Hallie Ford Museum of Art

August

Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum
Oregon Historical Society
Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

September

Portland Chinatown Museum

Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals
The MAiZE at The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island

Purchasers of MAiZE tickets in September 2026 will have access to the reciprocal membership program through August 2027; please save receipt as proof of purchase to access participating attractions.

October

Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
World Forestry Center

November 

Oregon Coast Aquarium
Seaside Museum & Historical Society

December

Clark County Historical Museum
Lan Su Chinese Garden

Download press images of participating attractions here. 

About the Northwest Attractions Alliance 

The Northwest Attractions Alliance (NWAA) is a professional organization representing major attractions throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. The group connects regularly to explore partnership opportunities and collaborates with regional destination marketing organizations. Many members of NWAA also participate in the annual reciprocal membership program, which offers free admission for a member and three guests of any age to different featured attractions each month.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The VA Portland Health Care System (VAPORHCS) has earned its fifth Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the highest national recognition for nursing excellence and quality patient care. Magnet recognition distinguishes health care organizations that meet rigorous, evidence-based standards for nursing leadership, shared governance, and superior outcomes.

A virtual site visit was conducted September 15–17, 2025, by ANCC appraisers who evaluated nursing practice, staff engagement, and organizational performance. This is the fifth consecutive year VA Portland has had the opportunity to showcase its nursing excellence during the Magnet evaluation process. VAPORHCS was first designated in 2006.

According to the ANCC, the Magnet Recognition Program is the highest credential a health care organization can achieve. Magnet designation indicates that an organization meets the most stringent standards for nursing excellence and patient care quality. VA Portland previously earned Magnet recognition in 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2020.

As part of the appraisal process, an open session was held with VA Portland employees in mid-September to allow staff to share insights about the facility’s nursing practice and professional environment.

“The Magnet designation for VA Portland Health Care System is a testament to the professionalism and expertise our nursing staff brings to our health care teams throughout our organization,” said VA Portland Health Care System Director Karla Azcuy. “This recognition acknowledges our strong nursing practices and reflects the passion our nursing staff have in providing care to our Veteran community.”

Magnet recognition is an international benchmark for health care organizations committed to delivering exceptional patient care. The program supports nursing leaders as they align strategic goals to improve outcomes, advance professional development, and strengthen collaboration at the bedside. For nurses, Magnet status fosters growth and autonomy. For patients, it represents the highest standard of care delivered by nurses who are supported to perform at their best.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Media hotline: 503-813-6018 

Pacific Power is prepared to respond to weather-related outages ahead of forecast storms

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 16, 2025) — Pacific Power is monitoring stormy weather for parts of Oregon and Washington in the coming days. The forecast indicates the potential for gusty winds and heavy rain, which could cause power outages.   

Pacific Power’s meteorology team is closely monitoring the approaching storms and crews are ready to respond to any weather-related outages.  

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.  

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:    

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.  
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.  
• Restock your outage kit.  
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.  
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.  
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.   

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.  

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas.   

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.   

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About Pacific Power 

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

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College faculty and students continue to gain national visibility.

This year, instructor Betsy Brandenburg was named a 2025 Innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News, while three PCC-educated designers from the interior and architectural design programs, Allison Hedrick, Bethany Broussard, and Emma K. Winn, also earned prestigious honors from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) as young professional leaders. Hedrick won first place in the NKBA Student Design Competition Kitchen Design category, and Broussard and Winn were named NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 Class of 2025.

Last March, an interior design instructor was awarded the inaugural 2025 NKBA/KBIS Educator of the Year award.

Brandenburg joined PCC’s Interior Design Program in 2023 and has a bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. She brings 30 years design experience from running her own design studio in Portland to her early career in San Francisco as a designer specializing in high-end hotels. The instructor is known for her practical, industry-aligned approach to teaching. 

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a KBDN Innovator,” Brandenburg said. “I want designers to know it doesn’t have to be so hard to deliver projects on time and on budget without losing your mind. This recognition reinforces that it’s a message designers want and need right now.”

In class, she introduces students to the “Design Roadmap System” that she created and they work on practicing project management in real time. By tracking their time and planning their schoolwork using the system all semester long, they learn how to manage a busy workload without the stress.

She said PCC excels at preparing students for real-world practice by connecting coursework directly with industry expectations.

“The curriculum isn’t just academic; it’s rooted in what designers actually need to know,” she said. “This business is also all about who you know, and PCC does a great job helping students build those relationships.”

Faculty regularly join students at industry events, introduce them to working professionals and incorporate hands-on career skills into the classroom. Brandenburg said her students’ enthusiasm strengthens her commitment to the program.

“Their energy is infectious,” Brandenburg said. “They remind me what an honor it is to make a living in this field. I'm so incredibly honored to be able to teach at PCC. The energy and talent is really remarkable.”

For more details on PCC's Interior Design Program, visit its webpage.

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

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

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

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) proudly announces the induction of Mark Stevenson into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional career in banking, deep community involvement, and unwavering commitment to advancing Oregon’s financial and nonprofit sectors. Induction into the Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed peer-to-peer in the banking industry and honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Oregon banking industry, their communities, and the association.

Mark Stevenson has worked in the Portland banking industry for more than two decades, building a distinguished career marked by leadership, innovation, and community service. He served as president and CEO of Capital Pacific Bank for 10 years before its merger with Pacific Continental Bank. Following the merger, Stevenson continued as executive vice president and chief nonprofit and sustainability officer at Pacific Continental Bank until its acquisition by Columbia Bank. In 2021, he was named CFO of the Year by the Portland Business Journal, highlighting his expertise in financial management and strategic leadership.

After his banking career, Stevenson devoted nearly a decade to Craft3, a nonprofit community development organization, serving as board member, chief financial officer, and new market tax credit director. In these roles, he provided innovative financial leadership, stepped into critical responsibilities as needed, and offered steadfast encouragement and mentorship to colleagues, helping the organization advance its mission across Oregon.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stevenson has been deeply engaged with the OBA, including serving as board chair, and has made a lasting impact on communities throughout Oregon. He has generously given his time, expertise, and resources to numerous nonprofit organizations, demonstrating a personal and professional commitment to civic service. Colleagues and peers describe him as a “genuine, accomplished, and proud banker” whose mentorship and leadership have inspired countless others.

"Mark Stevenson’s career reflects the very best of Oregon banking, combining leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to community,” said OBA President and CEO Scott Bruun. “From his decades of service in the industry to his work supporting nonprofits across the state, Mark has made a lasting impact. We are proud to honor him with induction into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame."

The Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame selection committee unanimously chose Mark Stevenson for this honor, citing his lifelong dedication to banking, innovative contributions to the industry, and enduring community impact.

The Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame is reserved for individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped Oregon’s banking industry, the OBA, and the communities in which they live and work. Mark Stevenson joins a distinguished group of 85 banking leaders inducted into the Hall of Fame since its inception in 1987.

Be alert for landslides and debris flows across Northwest Oregon

Portland, OR—The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Northwest Oregon from late Wednesday night (12/17/2025) through late Friday night (12/19/2025). Heavy rainfall from a forecasted atmospheric river event may result in landslides and debris flows in areas of steep terrain, as well as debris flows in and near burned areas from recent wildfires. The watch area includes all of Northwest Oregon.

Find the latest information here: https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=pqr&wwa=all

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk.

If your home, work, or travel route is in a watch area:

• Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio, or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.
• Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.
• Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

For more landslide and debris flow information: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/landslide/Pages/debrisflow.aspx

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Vancouver, Wash. - The U.S. Treasury Department has ceased minting new pennies for circulation, creating a new challenge for public offices and other organizations that accept cash payments and must provide exact change. The Clark County Treasurer’s Office is responding proactively to ensure continued service to customers while minimizing disruption.

The Treasurer’s Office has confirmed with its primary banking partner, JPMorgan Chase, that a nationwide penny shortage is affecting the bank’s ability to fulfill coin orders at this time.

“While pennies may seem insignificant, the inability to reliably obtain them has real operational impacts for public offices that accept cash,” said Alishia Topper, Clark County Treasurer. “Our responsibility is to manage public funds carefully, communicate clearly with the public, and avoid unnecessary administrative costs or burdens on customers.”

Until additional federal or state guidance, or legislative action, addresses the issue, taxpayers who make cash payments are encouraged to pay with exact change.

In addition to the impact on the Treasurer’s Office, the penny shortage will eventually impact all government organizations that accept cash. Treasurer Topper is recommending two potential approaches:

Request exact change
Requesting exact change for cash transactions is the simplest option, particularly when prices are fixed by statute or external agreement. Organizations choosing this approach should clearly post signage informing customers of the policy. The Treasurer’s Office will adopt this policy and began displaying signage on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.

Round total charges down to the nearest $0.05
For fees established in county code or organizational policy and where no revenue-sharing partners are involved, rounding total charges down to the nearest five cents may be an option. Taxes, including sales tax, must still be remitted to the State of Washington based on the pre-rounded amount. While federal guidance allows rounding up if properly disclosed, doing so can complicate tax and revenue-sharing calculations and impose unnecessary costs on customers. For these reasons, rounding up is not advised. Organizations should consult legal counsel and relevant state partners before implementing any rounding policy.

The Treasurer’s Office also advises against stockpiling pennies. Handling and storing large quantities of coin increases administrative burden and the risk of loss. Any losses, regardless of amount, must be reported to the Washington State Auditor.

“Stockpiling low-value coin creates avoidable risk and administrative overhead,” Treasurer Topper added. “When practical alternatives exist, it is not a responsible use of public resources.”

The Treasurer’s Office will continue to monitor developments and share updates as additional information or guidance becomes available.

For questions or to discuss these options further, please contact the Clark County Treasurer’s Office at 564.397.2255.

This morning, our fire personnel were joined by Forest Grove Mayor Malynda Wenzel, Forest Grove Rural Fire Board Members as well as other city leaders in a brief ribbon cutting ceremony to bring our newest Pierce Quantum fire engine into service.

This new engine, which is jointly purchased by the City of Forest Grove and the Forest Grove Rural Fire Protection District will now be serving the citizens of Western Washington County for the next 20 years (or more). The engine is laid out very similarly to its 5 year old sibling with some added features. One major new feature is the addition of a gantry for our hard suction hose, allowing firefighters to safely remove the large drafting hoses for rural fire operations. The engine fully equipped is a huge investment for the community, costing approximately one million dollars.

Another special note about this unit, is the Pierce Mfg Quantum cab is being discontinued and our engine is rumored to be the last vehicle built with the Quantum cab.
 

# # #

On Friday, December 12, 2025, detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office partnered with local businesses to combat organized retail theft in Cornelius.

During the mission, detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and uniformed patrol deputies collaborated with asset protection staff to identify individuals engaging in thefts at Coastal Farm & Ranch, Fred Meyer, and Walmart stores within the city of Cornelius, Washington County. Ten individuals were taken into custody for theft and trespassing, including one arrest for possession of methamphetamine. Detectives recovered hundreds of dollars’ worth of merchandise from those arrested.

This mission was funded by a grant obtained by the Washington County District Attorney’s Office from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will continue to collaborate with retail and law enforcement partners on additional initiatives to combat organized retail theft and shoplifting in Washington County.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Library will increase its hours of operation beginning Jan. 2, 2026. The new hours will be 9 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. The Law Library previously closed at 2 pm.

The Law Library is located on the first floor of the Clark County Courthouse at 1200 Franklin St. in downtown Vancouver. The Law Library provides a professional legal collection for judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and county and state officials. The collection is available to the public any time the library is open.

A law librarian is available during the library’s open hours to help people find materials and resources.

Learn more about the Clark County Law Library including its extensive online catalog and self-help form kits at https://clark.wa.gov/law-library.

Marion County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 99E, at the intersection with Quinaby Road NE, in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Dodge Charger, operated by Juan Santiago Sandoval (30) of Woodburn, was stopped on Quinaby Road NE at the intersection Highway 99E when it turned northbound onto the highway. The Dodge entered the path of a southbound Yamaha XJ650 motorcycle, operated by Xander Ashton Colter (22) of Kiezer, causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Yamaha (Colter) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) and passenger, Ricardo Alvarez Acosta (27) of Woodburn, were reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. Impairment is considered a primary contributor to the crash. The investigation is on-going.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 Contact: Scott Simms, ssimms@ppcpdx.org / 503-595-9770

December 15, 2025

Plaintiffs in federal litigation seek actions that would hobble clean hydropower, drive up electricity costs by $152-$169 million annually, increase the risk of blackouts, and add more harmful carbon emissions – all without proven benefits to fish

PORTLAND, OR — The Public Power Council (PPC), representing nearly 100 consumer-owned electric utilities across the Pacific Northwest, today filed its opposition to the motions for a preliminary injunction in long-running federal litigation over operations of the Columbia River System. PPC has been involved in this case since it was initiated almost 25 years ago, when PPC responded to the original Complaint.

PPC’s filing warns that the relief sought by plaintiffs – expanded spill requirements and tighter minimum operating pool limits at eight lower Columbia and lower Snake River dams – would significantly reduce the region’s most flexible carbon-free electricity resource, impose substantial replacement power and capacity costs on consumers, and increase blackout risk during summer heat and other emergency conditions, all without a quantified showing that the requested operations would deliver meaningful incremental benefits for salmon and steelhead beyond current operations.

“Public power utilities and the communities we serve are fully committed to salmon recovery – and we have been steadily paying for it, year after year,” said Scott Simms, CEO & Executive Director of the Public Power Council. “But this motion asks the Court to mandate sweeping operational changes with immediate reliability and affordability consequences, without a quantified demonstration that the requested spill and reservoir operations will actually improve fish survival beyond what is already in place.”

Experts say electricity cost hikes and reliability risks are measurable, but plaintiffs’ claims of fish benefits are not quantified

PPC’s opposition is supported by sworn declarations, including an independent analysis by Energy GPS’s Joshua Rasmussen that evaluated the plaintiffs’ proposed spill and reservoir constraints by applying them to historical hourly hydropower operations and modeling the resulting impacts. Rasmussen concludes that the proposed injunction would:

• Eliminate approximately 2 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of carbon-free hydropower production each year;
• Reduce available summer hydropower capability by approximately 1,200–1,400 megawatts (MW), with even larger losses during the most critical high-demand hours;
• Increase replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone to approximately $152 million to $169 million, based on forward market prices and study assumptions; and
• Increase carbon emissions by roughly 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026, as lost hydropower is replaced primarily by natural gas generation.

“These losses come at exactly the wrong time,” Simms said. “The Pacific Northwest is already facing tightening resource adequacy margins and rapid load growth. Reducing flexible hydropower during summer heat events materially increases the risk of emergency conditions and higher costs for consumers.”

Meanwhile, Andrew M. Deines, Ph.D., and Managing Scientist at Exponent (and an American Fisheries Society Certified Fisheries Professional), in a separate declaration, explains that plaintiffs’ fisheries expert does not translate the requested operational targets into numerical spill rates, preventing a scientifically robust comparison between current operations and the requested relief. Deines further explains that:

• At today’s already-high spill levels from federal hydro projects, empirical relationships show diminishing marginal returns, meaning additional spill may yield only small incremental biological gains, if any;
• Predictions become increasingly uncertain when extrapolating beyond historically observed operating conditions; and
• Several requested reservoir operations – particularly on the lower Columbia River – would push the system into largely untested operational territory, effectively creating a system-wide experiment.

“We in public power support science-based salmon recovery,” Simms said. “But if plaintiffs want the Court to impose sweeping mandates, they must quantify what they’re asking for and demonstrate the incremental benefit. That showing has not been made.”

Summary of key findings from PPC’s filing

• Significant cost impacts for ratepayers. Energy GPS estimates $152–$169 million in replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone. Public power utilities are not-for-profit and cost-based – meaning increased wholesale costs flow directly to customers.

• Serious grid reliability risks during summer emergencies. The plaintiffs’ requested operations would reduce hydropower’s summer capability by about 1,200–1,400 MW, with impacts reaching as high as roughly 1,700 MW during the most constrained hours analyzed. These reductions occur during the months most exposed to heat-driven scarcity and emergency conditions.

• Higher greenhouse gas emissions. Energy GPS estimates the proposed injunction would increase regional carbon emissions by approximately 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026 through electricity purchases from other power producers, undermining state climate goals while worsening conditions that affect salmon habitat.

• No meaningful showing of incremental fish benefit. PPC’s fisheries expert explains that the plaintiffs’ proposal lacks the numerical spill estimates necessary for standard comparative analysis and relies on assumptions that push into areas of diminishing returns and heightened uncertainty.

Legal and policy context

PPC’s opposition explains that the 2020 Biological Opinion, which governs current Columbia River System operations, was developed through extensive scientific analysis under the Endangered Species Act. PPC argues that plaintiffs have failed to meet the high legal threshold required for mandatory preliminary injunctive relief – particularly given the scale of the requested changes and the substantial reliability and economic impacts identified by PPC’s experts.

“Courts don’t issue mandatory injunctions based on speculation or policy disagreements,” Simms said. “The standard is evidence. The record here does not support imposing sweeping operational mandates with region-wide consequences.”

The filing also underscores that public power utilities already fund one of the largest fish and wildlife restoration programs in the world through Bonneville Power Administration rates.

Advocating for a non-litigation path ahead

Consistent with PPC’s publicly-stated position on this case, the filing urges the Court to deny the requested injunction and encourage a collaborative, science-based path forward.

“After more than two decades of litigation, it should be clear that court-ordered operational mandates are not a durable solution,” Simms said. “The region needs a negotiated approach that supports salmon recovery, respects Tribal treaty rights, protects grid reliability, and keeps power affordable for the people of the Northwest.”

Note to Media: PPC’s news release and filings in pdf form are available upon request at ssimms@ppcpdx.org. For Portland market TV media, PPC can be available with advance notice this week for stand-ups at the Bonneville Lock and Dam:

Bonneville Lock & Dam in North Bonneville, WA United States - Apple Maps

About the Public Power Council

The Public Power Council is a nonprofit association representing consumer-owned electric utilities in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Nevada. PPC members include public utility districts, municipal utilities, and rural electric cooperatives that collectively serve approximately 1.5 million electricity consumers. PPC advocates for reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible power supplies, with a strong commitment to fish and wildlife recovery in the Columbia River Basin.

# # #

As the strike enters week three, and ONA ramps up the rhetoric, Legacy sets the record straight and addresses misrepresentations and disingenuous ONA tactics.

ONA has refused to provide Legacy with a counterproposal for five weeks. In that time, Legacy has made three proposals and remains committed to bargaining in good faith until an agreement is reached.

Portland, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025) – To address the ongoing disinformation shared by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), Legacy Health believes it is imperative to provide key facts and clarity around the Adult Specialty Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) strike and set the record straight about the bargaining process to date and where both sides stand.

Legacy Health has a long track record of productive and collaborative relationships with represented groups and has always been committed to bargaining in good faith to reach a mutually agreeable contract with our APPs. We have met with their bargaining committee over 30 times to try to come to an agreement. As bargaining has progressed, ONA has repeatedly released misleading information and employed increasingly disingenuous and combative tactics that create unnecessary conflict and confusion with employees and the communities we serve.

Below are the facts:

Proposals to Avert a Strike

Since issuing a strike notice on Nov. 20, ONA has not provided a single counterproposal to Legacy. In fact, the union has not submitted a new proposal in more than five weeks, since Nov. 7, even though a counterproposal can be submitted at any day or time. The ball has been in their court for weeks.

Legacy negotiated up to the moment we received ONA’s strike notice on Nov. 20. Our most recent offer included an average 10% increase. ONA indicated they would prepare a response. They did not. Instead, they issued a strike notice.

Even more outrageous, ONA has refused to take Legacy’s most recent offers to its APP members for consideration and a vote. Contrary to what ONA has publicly claimed, Legacy remains ready to review any counterproposal ONA decides to present. The truth is, ONA has walked away from the bargaining table, and we are waiting for them to return. They have the ability to return to the negotiating table at any time and end this strike.

Bargaining and Mediation

Rather than respond to our offers, ONA has escalated tensions, including an incident in which ONA representatives brought a baseball bat to an in-person bargaining session. This is objectively threatening and wildly inappropriate given safety concerns in our hospitals, particularly from healthcare professionals.

On Nov. 20, when Legacy gave the bargaining unit its best and final offer, we made it clear that bargaining could continue, however, if ONA issued a strike notice, bargaining would need to pause so that Legacy could focus on patient care contingency planning. Instead of taking a market-competitive offer to its members, ONA chose to stop bargaining and issue a strike notice.

After the strike began, ONA requested mediation and Legacy immediately agreed, despite ONA publicly claiming that Legacy had refused to engage a mediator. Mediation began on Dec. 8. The federal mediator subsequently scheduled additional sessions for Dec. 15, 18 and 22. Legacy looks forward to participating in each session.

Despite Legacy’s clear willingness to engage a neutral mediator and bargain in good faith, ONA is now reversing course and asserting that a mediator is not necessary. At the same time, they continue to spread misinformation through local and social media, including claims that Legacy is “refusing” to negotiate. These statements are inaccurate and undermine the constructive dialogue needed to reach agreement.

Legacy’s Compensation Philosophy

Our philosophy throughout this process remains unchanged: to reach a fair and market-aligned agreement that supports our employees and the long-term stability of our organization. Legacy Health has offered an average 10% pay increase for all adult specialty advanced practice providers. That means:

• First-year APPs would be offered a salary range of between $151,500 to $165,000, depending on position.
• A provider with 10 years of experience would begin at between $180,000 and $196,000, depending on position.
• The most experienced APPs would earn between $197,500 and $215,000, depending on position.

We understand employees may compare our compensation to other local health systems, yet each system operates within its own financial and economic environment. Legacy’s realities are not the same as others. Our compensation model is based on market data, internal equity and what is financially responsible for our organization given our unique financial challenges. Because the financial ecosystems of local health systems are different, the pay structures are not directly comparable. 

As a safety-net health system, our mission is to care for everyone in our community, including those who rely on Medicaid and other governmental programs. These payers represent a disproportionate share of our patient population, and governmental reimbursement does not cover the full cost of providing care. Despite these realities, the ONA is insisting on 20% to 30% pay increases and refusing to meaningfully participate in the mediation process to try to reach agreement on an alternative package.

Going Forward

Legacy wants to reach an agreement with our valued APPs. We stand ready to bargain in good faith with the ONA and put an end to this strike. We deeply respect our people and are committed to providing them with the resources and tools needed to do the important work they do each day and continue to grow and thrive in their health care careers. 

Throughout this process, we have remained committed to our values and our mission, which extends to providing our people and our community with an accurate and transparent picture of where we are today in this process.

Legacy looks forward to engaging in the next of several scheduled mediation sessions today, Monday, Dec. 15.

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About Legacy Health

Legacy Health is a local nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services — from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children’s care and advanced medical centers — to care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. With an eye toward a healthier community, our partnerships tackle vital issues such as housing and mental health. Legacy strives to help everyone live healthier and better lives, with the vision of being essential to the health of the region. For more information, visit legacyhealth.org.

With Christmas just over one week away and Hanukkah currently underway, Oaks Park has last-minute gift ideas for shoppers in a pinch. Portland's favorite amusement park is making holiday gifting easier—and more exciting—than ever with two limited-time offers perfect for families, friends, and fun-seekers across the region.

Ride Wristband Gift Voucher Sale

For a limited time, shoppers can purchase a 2026 Ride Wristband Gift Voucher for just $29.95. Each voucher is valid for one wristband during the 2026 season, making it an affordable way to give the gift of thrills, laughter, and unforgettable memories at Portland’s beloved amusement park.  Wristbands retail for $49.45 and include unlimited rides.  Vouchers can be redeemed on any standard operating day of the park's 121^st season. Vouchers are delivered instantly by email, making them a convenient last-minute gift option.

Chipper Card Gift Card Bonus Sale

Holiday shoppers can also take advantage of Oaks Park's 15% bonus offer on $50, $100, and $200 Chipper Cards purchased online. The Chipper Card is Oaks Park’s all-around gift card, usable at registers throughout the park—including attractions, games, souvenirs, food and beverages, and more. Funds never expire, and customers can choose to receive a digital voucher instantly or have a physical card shipped to them free of charge.

A Perfect Fit for Every Fun-Lover

Whether gifting a full day of rides or a flexible park-wide spending card, these seasonal specials give families an easy way to share Oregon’s favorite place for fun. Both promotions are available for online purchase only and run for a limited time while supplies last.

For more information or to purchase, visit OaksPark.com.

BEAVERTON, Ore. – Jesuit High School is gearing up for its 57th annual Food Drive, a cherished tradition that mobilizes the school community to provide critical food assistance to families in the Portland area during the holiday season. On Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 2:15 p.m., the Jesuit High School Student Center will transform into a bustling hub where students, faculty and staff will sort and compile food boxes for over 380 families in the Portland area. Any surplus food will be donated to local food pantries to further benefit the community.

The JHS Food Drive has grown significantly since its inception in 1969, when it served approximately 40 families and raised just over $350.  

“As Jesuit High School has grown, so has its Food Drive. The drive not only helps families experiencing food insecurity during the Christmas season but also provides non-perishable foods for local food banks that serve families in need year-round,” said Andrea Casey, Food Drive coordinator.

Over the past two weeks, students have been collecting non-perishable food items and raising funds to purchase perishable goods. Students, faculty, and staff will volunteer through the evening of December 17, sorting and preparing food for delivery on Thursday, December 18, beginning at 12 p.m. The families receiving the food are pre-selected through partnerships with Lifeworks NW, St. Vincent de Paul at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, and several Beaverton elementary schools.  

“We’re not only addressing immediate needs but also raising awareness about the ongoing issue of food insecurity in Oregon,” Casey said. “Our hope is that students understand this is a year-round challenge, not just a seasonal one.”

In addition to the student-led efforts, alumni of Jesuit High School will host their 40th annual Food Drive on December 18-20. Working in collaboration with Lincoln High School, alumni will deliver 2,700 food boxes to families throughout the Portland area. 

“The Alumni Food Drive exemplifies our mission of being men and women for others,” said Kathy Baarts, Jesuit’s Alumni Director. “The need for food continues to grow, and our alumni community rises to meet that need, year after year.”

This longstanding tradition highlights the Jesuit High School community’s dedication to service and compassion, ensuring that hundreds of families experience the joy and relief of a well-stocked table during the holidays.

Food Drive (VIDEO & PHOTO OPP.):

• Wednesday, Dec. 17 @ 2:15 pm – Food collection in student center (Jesuit HS)

About Jesuit High School: Founded in 1956 by the Society of Jesus, Jesuit High School is Oregon's only secondary school in the Ignatian tradition of excellence in education. Our 1,299 students represent a diverse mix of young men and women from the Portland metro area and southwest Washington.

Jesuit High School's mission is to educate "men and women for others.” Our graduates are leaders who are religious, loving, intellectually competent, committed to doing justice, and open to growth. Jesuit is the recipient of two U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Awards, a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Award for its sustainability efforts, and 20 OSAA Cup Awards for outstanding achievement in academics, school activities, athletics, and sportsmanship. More information can be found online at www.jesuitportland.org.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA), in partnership with Oregon Business Magazine, has announced Bend-based real estate developer Brooks Resources Corporation as the recipient of the 2025 Community Applause Award. The award, which recognizes an Oregon business for its significant service and contributions to its community, was presented to Brooks Resources during a banking industry event held on Dec. 11 in Portland.

Founded in 1996, the Community Applause Award invites banks doing business in Oregon to nominate a business customer that gives back to its community in meaningful ways. An independent panel of judges reviews each nomination and selects the winner. Since the award’s inception, 48 Oregon businesses have been honored, including this year’s recipient.

For more than five decades, Brooks Resources Corporation has helped shape the growth and character of Central Oregon through a deep, consistent commitment to community. Each year, the company donates at least 3% of its pre-tax profits and supports hundreds of nonprofit initiatives across social services, housing, arts and culture, education, and environmental stewardship.

What distinguishes Brooks Resources is the intentional, hands-on approach behind its giving. Employees are encouraged to volunteer during work hours, the company matches charitable contributions, and its leadership is actively engaged in community events, board service, and civic initiatives. Even the company’s real estate developments reflect a community-first mindset, incorporating gathering spaces and local partnerships that strengthen connection and sense of place.

The depth of Brooks Resources’ impact is evident in the organizations that championed its nomination. BendFilm credits the company as a founding partner whose two decades of support have expanded artistic access and elevated diverse voices. Family Access Network, MountainStar Family Relief Nursery, and KIDS Center highlight how Brooks Resources’ sustained generosity has improved the lives of vulnerable children and families by helping critical services grow and remain accessible.

RootedHomes points to the company’s essential role in creating new pathways for permanently affordable housing in Bend, while the High Desert Food and Farm Alliance notes Brooks Resources’ unwavering support of local food systems and the farmers who sustain them.

Together, these perspectives paint a picture of a company that is far more than a successful developer. Brooks Resources is a catalyst that helps create stability, connection, opportunity, and a stronger future for Central Oregon.

Brooks Resources was nominated for the Community Applause Award by Lynn Spinoglio, commercial relationship manager at First Interstate Bank. In her nomination, Spinoglio stated, “Brooks Resources exemplifies what it means to care deeply about the place they call home. Their board, leadership, and employees consistently demonstrate thoughtfulness, generosity, and a genuine commitment to making Central Oregon a better place for all.”

As part of the award, OBA provided Brooks Resources with two $500 checks payable to Family Access Network and RootedHomes in its honor. The OBA also produced a video highlighting Brooks Resources and illustrating the impact one company can have when community is truly at the center of its mission.

Update: Direction of Buick LaCrosse changed from westbound to eastbound.

Douglas County, Ore. (Dec. 11, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 38, near milepost 22, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Buick Enclave, operated by David Michael Lawson (48) of Elkton, entered the westbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Kevin Morgan Leiser (65) of Vancouver (WA). The collision caused the Buick Enclave to spin uncontrollably in the roadway, where it was struck by an eastbound Buick LaCrosse, operated by Krystal Richelle Jacks (53) of Elkton, before rolling and coming to rest on its side.

The operator of the Buick Enclave (Lawson) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

The operator of the Buick LaCrosse (Jacks) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by Scottsburg Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

Vancouver, Wash. – 2026 annual parking passes for county regional parks are now available for purchase. Daily parking fees are charged year-round at four county regional parks – Frenchman’s Bar, Lewisville, Klineline Pond at Salmon Creek and Vancouver Lake. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the parking fee will be $5 per day, regardless of vehicle type.

The annual county regional park parking passes are $40 and valid from the date of purchase through the 2026 calendar year. County regional parks parking passes are only valid for parking at the four county regional parks. Passes issued by other agencies, such as the Washington State Discover Pass and the city of Vancouver’s Marine Park parking pass, are not valid for parking at the four county regional parks where daily parking fees are charged.

Without an annual pass, the daily parking fee can be paid at the fee booth when fee collection staff are present, via the Flowbird mobile app, self-pay stations or by displaying a valid annual parking pass. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are exempt from the daily parking fee when they present their pass to fee collection staff and display the pass on their vehicle’s dashboard.

County regional parks parking passes can be purchased online at clark.wa.gov/public-works/parking-fees or by calling 564.397.2285 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Additionally, passes will be available to purchase in person in the Bud Van Cleve community room at Luke Jensen Sports Park at 4000 NE 78th Street, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 22, and 29, and Jan. 5 and 12. Passes purchased online or via phone will be sent via mail. Accepted methods of payment include Visa and Mastercard. Passes can be purchased via cash or card at fee booths when staff are present. Passes cannot be purchased via parking meters or with a check.

Parking fees help provide funding to support parks maintenance and impacts of use such as garbage/waste management, restroom cleaning and facilities upkeep. In fall 2025, the Clark County Council approved updated rates for parking fees and facility rentals, to be implemented in 2026.

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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Umatilla County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 5:13 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 395A, near milepost 2, in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Tony James McCorkindale (39) of Pendleton, was struck by a northbound Scion xB, operated by Jose Trinidad Mariano (37) of Hermiston, while crossing the highway in an unlit area.

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

The operator of the Scion (Mariano) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Hermiston Police Department, Umatilla County Fire District 1, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Auto License office will be closed Dec. 26, 2025, and Jan. 2, 2026.

Regular office hours will resume on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026.

The Auto License office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. There are nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County. A complete list of the locations and hours of operation is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview.

Many transactions can be completed online. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview for more information.

Portland Fire & Rescue High Rise Response

Last Monday afternoon, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a potential high-rise fire at the Fox Tower in the downtown core, where most of our high-rise structures are located. Prior to crews’ arrival, 911 callers made multiple reports of heavy black smoke coming out of the building from vents on what appeared to be the 3^rd floor.

Our first arriving engine confirmed smoke in the area as they arrived on scene. The officer on this engine gave a size-up report to all responding companies: “Engine 4 has arrived at a 27-story high-rise building with smoke visible in the area. This is a high-rise incident, announce your arrival and assume your assignment based on your run order.” There is a bit to unpack about the meaning of this size-up that we will address below.

The smoke was found to be caused by a mechanical malfunction of equipment housed in the building and there was no fire problem, no damage to the building, nor was there any threat to the occupants. We have attached an image to show what was seen by the community members who reported this potential emergency.

With the recent tragic multi-building high-rise fire in Hong Kong, PF&R wanted to share a bit about how we address the unique challenges presented by the over 300 high-rise structures in the City of Portland. We also want to share with the community that due to our Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) enforcement of Portland Fire Code and the evacuation and floor warden training our Public Education Office (PEO) provides to building occupants and management, it is very unlikely that we would ever experience a multi-building high-rise fire with so many casualties in the City of Portland.

We define a high-rise building as one that is 7 stories or greater; many of these buildings are tall enough that our 100-foot aerial ladders will not make it to the rooftop. Any fire issues above the 7^th story generally must be addressed from the interior of the building, rather than by utilizing aerial ladders.

Fire prevention and mitigation in a high-rise begins before the structure is even built. The Fire Marshal’s Office has specialized Fire Inspectors embedded within the Portland Permitting and Design (PP&D) Office and these individuals work as a team to ensure that the building design follows fire and building codes that are established for the safety of future occupants of the buildings. Considerations of egress, internal fire suppression systems, communication systems, and materials used in construction along with apparatus access and water supply are all a part of this process. In addition to being involved in the design portion of construction, our Fire Inspectors regularly inspect these buildings once they are constructed and occupied to ensure all safety features are in place and operational. This includes the alarm system, communication system, fire pumps, sprinkler systems, and standpipes.

PF&R’s policies and procedures regarding high-rise fire incidents have evolved markedly over the last decade. With increased awareness of the unique challenges posed by high-rises and after review of high-rise fires worldwide, PF&R Chief Officers formed a committee whose purpose was to update the strategies and tactics used to address these incidents. The result was the formulation of a new high-rise response plan.

The first item that was recognized was that more on-scene PF&R resources are required to sufficiently address high-rise incidents. High rise fires present unique problems to firefighters accustomed to operating at ground level. The common fire problems of access, rescue, fire control, exposure protection, ventilation, and personnel safety are magnified due to the size, height, and potential high occupancy loads present in high rise buildings. This requires more firefighters on scene to address these concerns. PF&R sends 4 engines, 2 ladder trucks, and 2 chief officers to a residential or commercial fire as a first alarm assignment; but if a potential fire incident occurs within a structure categorized as a high-rise, PF&R now sends 7 engines, 3 trucks, a heavy rescue squad, a high-rise focused squad, and 3 Chief Officers.

The initial roll-out of the high-rise plan introduced a task-based assignment system based on the unit arrival order to an incident. These predetermined tasks for each arriving crew allow all firefighters to know exactly what their task is upon their arrival, without any additional direction needed from the incident commander. Because a high-rise can hide significant smoke and fire that may not be visible from the exterior, the predetermined task-based system ensures there are enough people on scene carrying out the necessary actions to address the specific situation at hand. This fosters a safe, effective, and accountable operation that provides the best opportunity to carry out our primary mission: saving lives and property.

PF&R recently revisited the high-rise protocol and determined that by learning from other incidents, we could improve our response plan and as a result, the entire plan was overhauled and revised. In conjunction with these changes, PF&R performed nearly three months of training in 2024, using the US Bancorp Tower. All our crews participated in this training and members of surrounding jurisdictions were invited to participate as well. This mutual aid training not only introduced how we operate to our neighbors, but also was a catalyst to these other fire departments in reevaluating their high-rise plans.

With this new protocol in place, it’s important that our crews continually train until the protocol becomes second nature. When responding to a suspected high-rise fire incident, the chief officers are requiring the entire high-rise protocol be followed until all crews are in their preassigned locations. This “practice as we actually operate” mindset allows us to function effectively should a large-scale high-rise fire incident occur in our response area. Early in the training of our firefighters, we teach our newer members to always expect fire on every call and to never let your guard down; this high-rise protocol and practice is an extension of this lesson.

On top of our constant practice in addressing high-rise incidents, PF&R uses information gathered from other significant events to evaluate how we can better prevent high-rise fires. With the recent 150+ lives lost in the Hong Kong fire, our FMO Prevention Division Training Officer put together a 3-page document with fire prevention lessons learned from this incident. This document included built-in exercises for our Fire Inspectors in the field so they can use this incident to improve the efficacy of their fire inspections in high-rises city-wide.

While we know that all these efforts and training cannot guarantee we won’t experience a high-rise fire incident in Portland, we hope that this information provides some comfort to those that work in, reside in, or occasionally occupy high rise buildings in the City. If there is a desire to do a more in-depth story on our high-rise response, please connect with the PF&R Public Information Officer.

Scholarship supports Lundquist College of Business students who pursue careers in commercial banking

EUGENE, Ore. — A senior accounting major at the University of Oregon’s Lundquist College of Business has been named the recipient of the OnPoint Community Credit Union Scholarship. The $4,000 award will support the senior during the 2025–2026 academic year as they pursue a career in commercial banking. While choosing to remain anonymous, the student shares how the scholarship will help.

“OnPoint’s generosity has made a significant difference in my academic journey, and I am truly honored to receive this scholarship. The support helps ease some of the financial burden; it also motivates me to continue striving for excellence in the field of accounting. I am inspired by OnPoint’s commitment to supporting students like me and hope to one day pay that generosity forward,” said the recent scholarship winner.
 

First-of-its-kind scholarship at the University of Oregon

OnPoint Community Credit Union created the first dedicated commercial banking scholarship at the Lundquist College of Business in 2024. It awards $4,000 annually to an undergraduate student who demonstrates an interest in a banking career.

“At OnPoint, we believe investing in education is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our communities,” said Bob Harding, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Supporting students helps ensure the commercial banking industry continues to thrive with talented, passionate professionals who are ready to make a positive impact.”

Fueling commercial banking education

The OnPoint scholarship aligns with the school’s growing interest in commercial banking. Enrollment in the university’s commercial banking courses has experienced significant growth since 2020, offering students training in financial skills such as risk analysis, loan structuring and ethics, along with providing networking opportunities with industry executives.

2026-27 Applications Are Open

The scholarship application for the 2026–2027 school year will open on December 15 and close on February 16, 2026. The Lundquist College of Business oversees the application and selection process, which includes a personal statement, resume, and committee review. Recipients are selected based on financial need and the student’s interest in pursuing a career in banking.

# # # 

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 631,000 members and with assets of $9.56 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (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.

The Thompson Elk Fountain is making its return to Downtown Portland, and we’re as excited as you are. But bringing back this historic piece of public art isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Join the Portland Water Bureau for a Q&A about the restoration process and the complex underground water system that brings the fountain to life. Receive project updates directly from the architects, engineers, conservators and builders working to bring this beloved piece of the city’s history back home.

What:   Get the latest status on the elk’s return, directly from the project’s engineers, conservators and builders

When:  Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon

Where: The Thompson Elk Fountain site, SW Main Street between Third and Fourth Avenues

Read more about the elk’s progress here.

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

SEASIDE, Ore. – December 14, 2025 – At approximately 6:03 a.m. on December 14, 2025, the Seaside Police Department, along with Seaside Fire & Rescue, responded to a reported motor vehicle crash into the garage of a house in the 1600 block of South Franklin Street.
 

Upon arrival, officers determined that both occupants of the vehicle had already left the scene. The individual believed to be the driver was later located and taken into custody.

The second individual, believed to have been a passenger in the vehicle, has not been located or heard from since the crash. Due to the nature of the collision and possible injuries, there are concerns for his safety. The missing individual is identified as 49-year-old Andrew Paul Sargent of Seaside.

Law enforcement has conducted an extensive search of the area, including coordination with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office for a K9 track and assistance from the Cannon Beach Police Department with a thermal drone sweep. Despite these efforts, Sargent has not yet been located.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Sargent is urged to contact the Seaside Police Department at (503) 738-6311. If you believe you have information related to his immediate safety, please dial 9-1-1.

This is an active investigation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. The uninjured homeowner has been displaced due to the accident.

end of release

Mount Hood, Ore. – The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office has suspended recovery operations for a 26-year-old climber from Bend who was last seen attempting to summit Mt. Hood.

At about 11:30 am on December 13^th, 2025, the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office (HRCSO) was notified of an overdue climber on Mt. Hood.  Matthew Aldridge (26) of Bend was reported overdue by a climbing partner.  A trio of climbers started at Mt. Hood Meadows ski resort and intended to summit Mt. Hood via the Newton Clark Headwall.  Two climbers turned back due to conditions, but Matthew continued his ascent.  When the partners had not heard from him, they called to report him overdue. 

The Sheriff’s Office initiated a search that included a HRCSO fixed-wing aircraft, ground searchers, and cell phone forensics.  The initial search was narrowed to an area near Pea Gravel Ridge above 8400’ in elevation, after phone data suggested a fall.  The first attempt to reach the area with ground searchers was unsuccessful due to darkness and unsafe conditions. 

A larger ground search of the area was resumed in the early morning hours on December 14^th, 2025.  Searchers from the Hood River Crag Rats and Portland Mountain Rescue made it to the likely location previously identified but were unsuccessful in locating any sign of Matthew.  Due to deteriorating weather and treacherous conditions, the Sheriff’s Office made the difficult decision at midday to withdraw searchers and suspend the ground search for Matthew.  Additional efforts may be attempted as conditions allow, but the search has shifted to a recovery mission. 

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Hood River Crag Rats, Portland Mountain Rescue, Mt. Hood Meadows, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Northwest Avalanche Center for their assistance with this challenging mission.

Date:           December 14, 2025

Contact:      Jess Palma, Public Information Officer

                   541-265-0652

                   iff@co.lincoln.or.us">lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us  

HIGHWAY 229 LANDSLIDE UPDATE – 02
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active as we assist with the landslide that closed Highway 229 beginning December 12, 2025. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continues to work with local and state partners to assess the developing situation and local impacts.

The site is still active and can be dangerous. Avoid the impacted and surrounding area. Ten homes were placed on evacuation notice. Occupants that remain in the hazard area were issued additional evacuation recommendations on December 12, 2025.

Three structures, including two homes, have been damaged in the landslide. Community members are encouraged to use extreme caution in and around the Siletz River to avoid risk of injury from debris and dangers associated with the heightened river level.  

There have been reports of debris washing up on the shores of the river, the Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members are encouraged to avoid climbing on or moving the debris. Any discovery of items with personal identification should be reported to local law enforcement.

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has reported it is unknown how long the Highway 229 closure will last and that geotechnical crews need time to assess the slope and determine next steps before a timeline can be established.

Please be aware that there is no nearby detour available. Travelers should avoid the area and plan alternate routes. We'll continue to monitor conditions and will share updates as more information becomes available. Travelers are encouraged to check TripCheck.com for the latest road conditions before heading out.

Additional Information on the Landslide or to Inform Your Safety and Travel Plans:

• Weather: www.weather.org
• Road closures: tripcheck.com
• Lincoln County Emergency Alerts: sign up to receive messages directly - member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
• Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT): www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx

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On Friday, October 24, 2025, at approximately 9:41pm, Keizer Police officers responded to a report of a male with a gunshot wound to the chest in the area of McGee Court NE.  The victim was determined to be 20-year-old Landon Ostrom who, while bleeding, ran to neighbors for help and reported he was shot and robbed inside his apartment by one female and two males, all armed with guns.  The unidentified suspects took the victim's firearms and other personal belongings and fled the scene before police arrival.  Neighbors and responding officers rendered aid to Mr. Ostrom who was then transported to the hospital and, despite having sustained life-threatening injuries, survived the attack.  In their initial response, Keizer PD officers were assisted by the Salem Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff's Office, and the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Keizer Police detectives responded to the scene the same night and continued to tirelessly work the case for weeks, looking for evidence and applying for, obtaining, and serving multiple subpoenas and search warrants.  Detectives were assisted by analysts from the FBI and Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ).

The investigation involved evidence gathering and surveillance operations in multiple counties, and led detectives to Eugene, OR.  As the suspects were identified in the course of the investigation it was determined the home-invasion robbery was a targeted attack, with prior knowledge of the victim and his possessions.

On Friday, December 12, 2025, an apprehension and search warrant execution operation was conducted by Keizer PD detectives and patrol officers, with assistance from detectives from Salem PD, as well as detectives, patrol officers, and SWAT from the Eugene Police Department.  The three suspects—two males and one female—were taken into custody and search warrants were executed at multiple locations.  One firearm was seized during the operation.  The three suspects were transported to the Keizer Police Department and later to the Marion County Correctional Facility.  The males (Daniel Tijerina and Romeo Luna, both 20 years of age from Eugene) were lodged on charges of Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Menacing; while the female (Eugene resident, 19-year-old Franki Salyers-Livingston) was charged with Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Menacing, and Assault in the First Degree.

This investigation remains ongoing, and no further information is available for release at this time. Anyone with information related to this case or the suspects identified is urged to contact the Keizer Police Department Criminal Investigations Division.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on December 16, 2025. 
The MESD Board will review Board Policy IIBGA- Electronic Communications Systems coverage of internet safety for minors in compliance with CIPA (Childrens Internet Protection Act)

This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84042789763?pwd=jYRHNbDhNIIfkfp8o7ZNW9smaWzJJC.1
Passcode:211990

• Free on-street parking downtown from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 13 and Dec. 20, 2025

Salem, Ore. – In celebration of the 2025 holiday season, the City of Salem has temporarily suspended paid on-street parking in the Downtown Parking District on Sat., Dec. 13 and Sat., Dec. 20, 2025. This suspension will be in effect at on-street parking meters from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., supporting local businesses and encouraging community engagement during this special season. Free parking is also available in downtown parkades. Visit downtown Salem this holiday season to shop, dine and play!

"We are excited to announce free parking for the next two Saturdays. We are grateful that our parking meter programmers were able to do some holiday magic just in time to give Salem a gift. Free downtown parking this Saturday and next Saturday,” said Kristin Retherford, Salem Community Planning and Development Director.

Downtown Salem is a vibrant destination filled with unique shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and scenic walking and biking trails. Whether you're exploring on foot or by bike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information about things to do in Salem, go to https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/things-to-do.

Information about parking in Salem is available at www.cityofsalem.net/parking.

# # #

Case: 21CR56098

                                                                                                                        December 12, 2025

Portland, OR- Christian Fitz Henry, 31-years-old, was sentenced to 20 years in prison today for shooting at two Portland Police Officers who were trying to stop him.

Today’s sentences follow guilty verdicts back on March 4, 2025. A jury found the defendant guilty of the following crimes:

Two counts of Attempted murder in the First Degree with a Firearm.

Two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm.

Felon in possession of a Firearm.

In a separate case (22CR02061) Fitz-Henry was sentenced on April 15, 2024 to 10 years in prison after being convicted of Robbery in the First  Degree and Felon in Possession  with a Firearm.

The 20 years given today will begin after those ten years are served, meaning that the defendant is now sentenced to a total of 30 years prison.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Shawn Overstreet prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing today he said:

“The judge issued a sentence today that holds Mr. Fitz-Henry accountable for his cowardly actions. Mr. Fitz-Henry was on the run for a robbery and murder when these brave officers attempted to stop and arrest him. These officers were shot at while simply doing their jobs. The sentence today sends a strong message that these types of crimes will not be tolerated in Multnomah County.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Portland Police Bureau for their thorough work investigating this case.

THE FACTS:

On October 1, 2021 Fitz-Henry used a 9 millimeter gun to rob Joshua Newell in a townhome near SE 128th and Stark in Portland. During that robbery Mr. Newell was shot and killed. Fitz-Henry was charged with the murder but a jury found him not guilty. He was also charged and convicted of the robbery.

While police were working that case, they began looking for Fitz-Henry and found him November 13, 2021. As the officers tried to stop Fitz-Henry in a stolen car he was a passenger in, he fired at both officers, fortunately missing them. He was eventually arrested and charged with trying to kill the officers.

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SALEM, Ore.--Washington state is currently experiencing major flooding that is impacting multiple communities, and Oregon is stepping up to support its neighbors during this emergency.

At the request of the Washington Emergency Management Division, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) deployed a six-member swift water rescue team from Clackamas Fire District on Dec. 11 to assist with ongoing flood response efforts. The team is on a seven-day mission and is supporting life-safety operations in affected areas.

This deployment was coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or EMAC — a national mutual aid system that enables states to share resources during disasters. EMAC ensures that assistance is coordinated, reimbursable and that responders are properly credentialed. This marks the first EMAC deployment for Oregon’s swift water rescue team.

“Oregon is proud to stand with Washington during this challenging time,” said Kelly Jo Craigmiles, emergency program coordinator with the OEM Response Team. “These highly trained responders are answering the call to protect lives and support communities impacted by flooding.”

In addition to the rescue team, Oregon also has alerted Washington that the 125th National Guard is ready to deploy if needed, and that there are additional drone resources available with county-level pilots prepared to assist with aerial assessments and situational awareness. The drones are part of Oregon's State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program.

OEM extends its gratitude to the responders for their professionalism and commitment, and to state and local partners in both Oregon and Washington for their continued collaboration.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Clackamas Fire District Public Information Officer at 971-204-5944 or cfdpio@clackamasfire.com

GRESHAM, Ore.— The City of Gresham East Multnomah Outreach Prevention Intervention (EMOPI) team is supporting a free “Know Your Rights” training to be hosted by community-based organization Latino Network.
 

What: “Know Your Rights” training
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Register: wikdh20l.forms.app/know-your-rights-event-registration

The training aims to educate attendees about their constitutionally protected rights as they relate to interactions with state and federal law enforcement agencies. The physical address for the training and a link to a virtual option will be provided upon registration.

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About Gresham:  

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov.

Siletz, Ore. December 12, 2025, 1:00 pm
 

There is a highway closure at Milepost 14 of Highway 229 due to landslide, The highway will be closed for an undetermined amount of time. Please use an alternate route. The landslide has impacted roughly a 0.2 mile stretch of road.
 

We are asking the public to please stay out of the impacted area.
 

The impacted area includes up to five residential properties, including substantial impact to at least three residential structures. All known occupants in the impacted area have been accounted for and have been safely evacuated.
 

The slide, including earth debris, structural debris, and possibly vehicle debris has entered the Siletz River. The slide originally occurred on property owned by Weyerhaeuser above Highway 229 and continued down to the properties below the highway and the Siletz River. Their representatives have been notified of the situation and are evaluating their property. Two of the evacuated residents have been connected to the American Red Cross for services.
 

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Oregon Department of Transportation, Siletz Valley Rural Fire Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue responded to the scene.
 

Lincoln County Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Center to assist in response to the slide. State agencies have been notified regarding the river impacts.
 

As always, review www.tripcheck.com before you travel for the most up to date information.

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Announces FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program Grant Applications Open with a Tight Timeline

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is pleased to announce the release of the FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) Applications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This federal grant program is designed to help nonprofit organizations enhance the physical and cybersecurity of facilities that may be at risk of terrorist or extremist threats.

Eligible nonprofit organizations across Oregon are encouraged to submit their application for funding to strengthen their security posture. OEM will provide further instructions to organizations that register and meet eligibility requirements

Key Program Details:

• Maximum Funding: Up to $200,000 per location with no more than $600,000 in FY25 NSGP Funding per organization.
• Application Limit: Up to six locations total, with no more than three in the same designated area: either high-risk Urban Area (UA) or the rest of the State (S).
• Application Deadline: 10 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026
• View a prerecorded application training here.
• OEM will hold more in-depth Q&A sessions in early January. To stay informed about NSGP updates and information sessions, subscribe to the email list.

To Apply:

To be eligible for funding, organizations must register with this form and complete the FY25 Investment Justification Form (IJ form must be downloaded to view).

1. After submitting the registration form, a confirmation message will appear—please take a screenshot for your records. 
2. Then send your completed FY25 Investment Justification Form and the screen shot to shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov.

We recognize this is a short timeline to develop grant applications, we were notified of this deadline on December 12, 2025. We must submit prioritized project proposals to FEMA by Friday January 30, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

More information:

• For federal updates on NSGP and other programs, visit our Federal Actions page.
• For grant questions or assistance, please email: shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will hold a special virtual meeting to discuss the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests on Friday, Dec. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon.  There is no in-person option for this meeting.

To join, use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

 Agenda items will include:

• A public comment period.
• Review of the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests.

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

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 ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – TriMet’s Transit Police Division (TPD) has arrested a 49-year-old man following a dangerous high-speed incident that began on Interstate 84 and ended with a collision in the Lloyd District.

“This incident demonstrates how extreme speeding and reckless driving in an urban area can put innocent bystanders at great risk,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Transit Police members do an excellent job of helping to support public safety beyond just our transit system. They are often the first to encounter dangerous and unlawful behavior and are quick to address it.”

At approximately 11 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, a Transit Police saw a vehicle traveling more than 100 miles per hour westbound on Interstate 84. Another vehicle passed TPD at speeds estimated to be nearly 120 miles per hour.

The TPD unit initiated a traffic stop as the second car took the Lloyd Center exit. The driver initially came to a stop near Northeast 13th Avenue and Holladay Street. While initially cooperative, TPD members saw behavior from the driver that raised safety concerns.

As a precaution, TPD members put down a tire deflation device, which proved intuitive because the driver, identified as Steven Roll, took off just before being asked to step out.

When deployed on a stationary vehicle, the tire deflation device does not damage the vehicle’s tire. However, if the driver leaves during the traffic stop, the device will pop the tire allowing for a controlled air release.

The device functioned as intended, deflating the tire.

Roll turned on Northeast 13^th Avenue before turning west onto Northeast Multnomah Street.

TPD members did not pursue but notified dispatch and other nearby officers.

A short distance later, Roll hit the center median near the well-known Lloyd District clock, causing significant damage to the structure, nearby planter boxes, and ultimately a parked, unoccupied vehicle. At the time of the initial impact, Roll is believed to have been well in of excess the posted speed limit.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported to any TPD members or community members.

TPD members caught up with Roll, who attempted to run from the crash scene, and took him into custody without further incident. Paramedics took him to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies booked Roll into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of reckless driving, attempting to elude by vehicle, attempting to elude on foot, criminal  mischief in the second degree, possession of a forgery instrument, reckless endangerment, driving under the influence of intoxicants, interfering with a peace officer, escape in the third degree, forgery in the first degree, failure to perform the duties of a driver, and possession of methamphetamine.

Charges are only allegations, and every arrested person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

ORS 133.870 generally prohibits the release of jail booking photos to the public unless it is determined that there is a law enforcement purpose.

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change. 

Several photos from the crash scenes are being released. Media may use these with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

 About Transit Police:   

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. 

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. 

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BURGLARY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO VEHICLE PURSUIT AND ARREST
 

December 11, 2025 – Waldport, OR
 

On December 11, 2025, at approximately 9:00 AM, Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a report of a burglary that occurred in Waldport. Surveillance video showed a red Dodge Ram pull up to the business, the male driver then got out of the truck and spray painted over two of the three working cameras, and then proceed to force entry into the business. The male stole an electronic bike and an undisclosed amount of cash before leaving. Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office worked with Coos Bay Sheriff’s Office, Coos Bay Police, and North Bend Police and learned the registered owner of the truck sold the vehicle earlier that morning in the Coos Bay area.
 

At approximately 11:45 AM, Officers with Newport Police Department (NPD) located the red Dodge truck in the Fred Meyer Parking lot in Newport. After attempting to contact the driver of the truck, the driver fled the scene in the vehicle. Newport Police pursued the vehicle North on Highway 101. NPD was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Lincoln City Police in deploying stop sticks on the vehicle. The truck continued North on Highway 101 until it crashed near SE 51^st and Highway 101. The suspect then attempted to run on foot before quickly being subdued by onlookers at the crash site and taken into custody by officers without further incident. The suspect was identified as 33-year-old Tyler Mullen. Mullen was lodged at Lincoln County Jail on charges of Parole Warrant, Attempt to Elude (Vehicle), Attempt to Elude (Foot), Reckless Driving, two counts of Reckless Endangering, two counts of Criminal Mischief II, two counts of Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, Burglary II, Theft I, and Criminal Mischief II.
 

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

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The solidarity action will result in a total of 220 APPs striking during a busy holiday season

Portland, Ore. - Advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Go Health clinics and Legacy Pediatrics gave notice to Legacy management that they will strike with the 140 APPs from Legacy’s hospitals and clinics already on strike. The 80 members launching the solidarity strikes are also represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). ONA member leaders say the expanding strike reflects widespread frustration with Legacy’s bargaining approach and with APPs' working conditions systemwide.

On Monday, December 8, Legacy management finally returned to the bargaining table but showed little interest in meaningful mediation and announced they would not meet again with striking APPs until December 18. Legacy has since agreed to additional mediation on December 15 and 22.

Members of Legacy Go Health will hold a two-day strike on Dec. 21 and 22, while Pediatric APPs will hold their strike on Dec. 22 and 23. The official strike notice was issued less than a week after the two bargaining units voted overwhelmingly to stand with their striking colleagues. 

Both groups cited concerns about patient care, staffing, equity across the healthcare system and Legacy management’s refusal to bargain fairly as key reasons for joining the strike line. 

“We didn’t take this vote lightly,” said Sara Lopez, a physician associate (PA) at Legacy Go Health clinics. “Our patients rely on us every day, but we also rely on a system that treats providers fairly and ensures care is safe and sustainable. Standing with our colleagues is the only way to move Legacy toward a solution that supports both providers and patients.” 

“APPs across Legacy provide excellent medical care to Legacy patients but many of us feel that our contributions go unrecognized. We unified to address compensation that is below market value, inadequate staffing, and workload demands that impact patient safety and provider well-being,” said Jordyn Luttrell, DNP, a Legacy Pediatrics APP. “We’re joining the strike because the problems affecting our colleagues today will affect all Legacy APPs tomorrow unless something changes.” 

Striking APPs at Legacy’s hospitals and clinics welcomed the show of unity from APPs at Go Health and Pediatrics. 

“This is what solidarity looks like,” said April Callister, a physician associate who is currently on strike. “Legacy has been counting on divisions between clinics and specialties to maintain the status quo. By standing together, we are sending a clear message: we want a fair contract, safe staffing, and a system that respects the work we do.” 

What is a solidarity strike? 
A solidarity strike is a legally-protected work stoppage in which a group of employees refuse to work in order to support another bargaining unit engaged in a labor dispute. 

Background
Legacy Go Health APPs won their NLRB election in January 2025. The ONA-represented bargaining unit includes about 50 nurse practitioners and physician associates working in immediate care clinics across the state. The Legacy Pediatric APP bargaining unit, which unionized in August 2025, represents about 30 nurse practitioners and physician associates delivering specialized pediatric care in the Portland area and SW Washington.

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

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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 December 7 to December 10, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on December 7 and December 9. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on December 8 or December 10. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on December 3, 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

Salem, OR – The Executive Committee of the State Library Board will meet virtually 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, December 19th, 2025. The committee will use this time to conduct business and set the agenda for the upcoming State Library Board meeting. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. 

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

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department will conduct focused enforcement efforts relating to the crime of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, including the use of our Drug Recognition Expert to detect impairment. This effort will occur throughout the holiday season in December and New Year's Day.  Approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers and we are committed to preventing these tragedies by getting impaired drivers off of the road.  NDPD receives grant funding through the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact to staff additional officers for periodic traffic enforcement operations such as this.

Vancouver, Wash. – This is the final update to Clark County’s storm response and impact information from the atmospheric river event that began Dec. 9.

Closures and Impacts

All roads and parks closed due to the storm have been reopened.

• REOPENED: Northeast 156th Street at Northeast 102nd Avenue in Brush Prairie
• REOPENED: Northeast 112th Avenue north of Northeast 156th Street in Brush Prairie
• REOPENED: Daybreak Regional Park
• REOPENED: Haapa Boat Launch
• REOPENED: Lewisville Regional Park
• REOPENED: Lucia Falls Regional Park
• REOPENED: Moulton Falls Regional Park
• REOPENED: Northeast J R Anderson Road between Northeast 72nd Avenue and Northeast Mason Creek Road, east of La Center

Daybreak Regional Park boat launch closed indefinitely

The boat launch at Daybreak Regional Park was significantly damaged when the East Fork Lewis River rose and flooded the park. While the park has reopened, the boat launch will remain closed until it is repaired. At this time, Public Works does not have an estimated timeline for reopening the boat launch.

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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Incident: Vehicle Pursuit

Location: Highway 101 & 150 NE 20^th ST

Date/Time: December 11^th, 2025 @ 1148 hours

Details: On December 11^th, at around 1148 hours, Newport Police Officers received information from area law enforcement agency of vehicle that was suspected to be involved in a burglary from the Waldport, OR area.  Officers were provided surveillance photos detailing the vehicle description.  

While searching the Newport area for the vehicle, a Newport Police officer observed a vehicle matching the description parked in the parking lot of 150 NE 20^th ST, (Fred Meyer).  While the Officer waited for assistance from other Officers, he exited his car to contact the vehicle driver giving him orders to remain in the vehicle.  The driver (later identified as Tyler MULLEN age 32) did not comply with lawful orders and began to leave in the vehicle.  MULLEN drove over a curb and fled the area in the vehicle traveling out of the parking lot and then northbound on Highway 101.        

The Officer returned to his patrol car and attempted to stop MULLEN with his lights and sirens.  MULLEN refused to stop and continued driving northbound on Hwy 101 at a high rate of speed.  At Highway 101 and NW 25^th ST intersection, Mullen clipped a vehicle in the turn lane causing minor damage causing no injuries to the vehicle’s driver and did not stop. 

Officers continued to pursue MULLEN on the highway and were able to contact partnering agencies ahead of the pursuit to setup tire spike strips.  MULLEN drove over the spike strips causing damage to his multiple tires.  The vehicle eventually suffered loss of traction near SE 51 ST in Lincoln City, OR and would not travel any further.  MULLEN exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot where he was ultimately restrained by construction workers at the scene. MULLEN was placed under arrest and refused to identify himself.

MULLEN was transported to the Lincoln County Jail where he was fingerprinted revealing his identity along with providing of photograph of him. This revealed he had active warrants for his arrest for a probation violation out of the Oregon State Parole Board.     

In addition to the arrest warrant, MULLEN was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for the following charges:

Tyler MULLEN, 32

• Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer (Felony)
• Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer (Misdemeanor)
• Failure to Carry or Present a license
• Reckless Driving
• Reckless Endangering (x2)
• Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver (Misdemeanor x2)

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

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

Information Released By: Lieutenant Gainer, 541-574-3348

UPDATED TO INCLUDE BOARD ACTION REQUEST: The Sandy Fire District Board of Directors will hold a regular board meeting on Wednesday, December 17, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items include monthly division reports and a presentation from the Wildland Division and request for board approval of Resolution 25-03 Sandy Fire District Annexation into Clackamas Fire District.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, please sign up by completing the Sandy Fire District Public Meeting Comments form by Wednesday, December 17, at 2:00 p.m.

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Sandy Fire District Station 71 Annex building (17459 Bruns Ave., Sandy, OR 97055). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Sandy Fire’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://sandyfire.org/about/board.

Klamath Falls, OR — Interim Fire Chief Brent Knutson and Klamath County Fire District 1 personnel formally recognized firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs on December 2nd for their exceptional performance during a structure fire on November 14, 2025—an incident in which their actions directly contributed to saving a life.

Crews arrived on scene in under four minutes from the initial 911 dispatch. Upon arrival, firefighters conducted a rapid size-up and immediately located and removed a critically injured resident trapped inside the burning home. Within just over five minutes of the rescue, the patient was en route to Sky Lakes Medical Center and soon after transferred to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) for advanced care.

These actions were executed under deteriorating and hazardous conditions. Working as a coordinated team, responders carried out a swift rescue, initiated immediate medical care, and ensured that advanced life-saving interventions began without delay. Because of their decisive action, discipline, and professionalism, a life that might otherwise have been lost remains with us today.

“Our KCFD1 team delivers outstanding service every single day, but what occurred on November 14 rose above even their customary high standards,” stated Interim Chief Knutson. “Their actions reflect the very best of what this profession stands for — courage under pressure, commitment to each other, and dedication to the people we serve. They didn’t just perform their duties; they lived out the oath to protect life, no matter the risk.”

Klamath County Fire District 1 commends all personnel involved for their professionalism, bravery, and service. Their actions on November 14 are a reminder of the importance of training, preparedness, and the unwavering dedication required in emergency services.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office Retail Theft Task Force is asking for the public’s help to locate a defendant wanted for Aggravated Theft in the First Degree and other charges linked to thefts from Plaid Pantry stores in Portland. 54-year-old Timothy Ray Jones is described as a Black male, 5’07”, and 135 pounds. Jones has no known address and, in the past, has frequented the area of Dawson Park at North Stanton and Williams.

Anyone with non-emergent information about Jones may share it with the Retail Theft Task Force at ttf@mcda.us">rttf@mcda.us. Anyone seeing Jones is asked to call 9-1-1

Persons wishing to remain anonymous may reports tips to Crime Stoppers of Oregon. Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 cash for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters will remain anonymous.

Portland Business Journal ranks Oregon's largest credit union first among banks and wealth management firms for the third year in a row

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Business Journal has named OnPoint Community Credit Union Oregon's “Most Admired Company” in the Financial Services category — for the third year running. This recognition marks OnPoint’s 18th consecutive year as one of the state’s most admired credit unions, banks or wealth management firms. OnPoint was also ranked seventh in the Across All Industries category among the state’s top employers, nonprofits, and iconic brands. 

“This honor belongs to our members, community partners, and employees,” said Rob Stuart, president/CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Their commitment to strengthening our communities is what drives us every day. We are grateful to the Portland Business Journal for this recognition and for celebrating the organizations building a stronger Oregon and southwest Washington.”

The Portland Business Journal surveys nearly 2,500 chief executive officers (CEOs) across Oregon and southwest Washington to identify organizations they admire in 10 industry categories. It also includes three they admire overall for innovation, brand strength, community involvement, quality of management, and quality of products and services.

Growing access to financial services across the region

OnPoint strengthened its presence across Oregon and southwest Washington in 2025 through new branches, an extended field of membership, and planned investments in its headquarters.

This year, OnPoint expanded its field of membership in southwest Washington to include Cowlitz and Lewis counties, adding to its service area in Clark and Skamania counties. The credit union will continue to grow in the region with new branches planned for Battle Ground and Ridgefield in 2026 to serve more households and businesses in one of the area’s fastest-growing corridors.

In Oregon, OnPoint opened its 58th location in Hillsboro at Reed’s Crossing Town Center. The credit union also announced plans to expand its Montgomery Park headquarters and open a new downtown Portland branch in 2026, enhancing service for members and supporting its expanding commercial, nonprofit, and small business banking teams.

Investing in students, educators, and schools

In 2025, OnPoint advanced its support for students, educators and schools across Oregon and southwest Washington through signature programs, longstanding partnerships, and new initiatives that promote college-to-career readiness.

A new partnership with the Portland State University School of Business will bring OnPoint into student-focused events throughout the 2025–26 academic year, including guest speakers in business courses and free professional headshots for students. The credit union’s education-related athletics partnerships continued as well, including Portland State University Athletics and the Oregon Athletics Touchdown for Teachers programs.

OnPoint supported local students through the 2025 KGW School Supply Drive, marking its 18th year participating in the campaign. This year’s drive collected more than $1 million worth of supplies for over 40,000 students, aided by an OnPoint match contribution of $20,000. The credit union also provided $193,000 in awards and scholarships to educators and students through the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education and its partnership with the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA).

Historic year of giving supports local nonprofits and community needs

OnPoint donations are expected to exceed $4 million this year, supporting more than 350 nonprofits across Oregon and southwest Washington. This year’s giving focused on food and shelter, youth services, financial education, environmental stewardship and diversity, equity and inclusion.

The credit union’s annual Giving Tuesday employee giving program gave $50 to each of its nearly 1,300 employees to direct to nonprofits addressing food and shelter insecurity in its service region, resulting in over $53,000 directed to 225 nonprofits to help meet critical needs for families across Oregon and southwest Washington. More information about OnPoint’s giving program is available at onpointcu.com/community-giving.

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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.

Case: 22CR16936                                                                               December 11, 2025

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Heidi Moawad today sentenced 21-year-old Riz’o Eonte Lucas to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years. 

The defendant was convicted of Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm and Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm for killing Fars Giday in downtown Portland on April 8, 2022.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorneys Chris Shull and Glen Banfield prosecuted the case for the state.

After the sentencing Shull said:

"This conviction helps bring a sense of safety back to Old Town, though no amount of justice will ever make up for the loss of Fars Giday’s life. Our office feels a deep sense of grief and compassion on behalf of Mr. Giday’s family."

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detectives Travis Law and Jeff Sharp, and Portland Police uniformed Officers Caleb Honl and William Green for their outstanding work on this case.

MCDA would also like to highlight the work of Victim Advocates Heith Curry and Nang Dunn, Olivia Hanes and others who provided care and compassion to the victims. 

The facts:
On April 8, just before noon Riz’o Eonte Lucas who was barely 18 years old, walked up to Fars Giday as he stood near a tent on SW Naito Parkway near the Burnside Bridge.

Video from nearby cameras showed Mr. Giday facing the street simply standing near the tent.

The defendant, wearing a black mask and carrying a distinctive backpack walked up to Mr. Giday and pulled a pistol out of his pocket. The two stood side by side for a moment and then the defendant raised the gun and shot Mr. Giday in the neck. He ran toward the Burnside bridge where he bled to death.

Investigators could find no clear motive for the murder.

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, 6:00 pm, at Vancouver Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. Agenda. 

You can view the agenda and meeting materials at: https://www.fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/ 

A two-day training conference in Bend will offer safety and health training for workers in the residential, commercial, and industrial construction industries, as well as insights for employers about how to address hazards. The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit, held Monday-Tuesday, Jan. 26-27, 2026, will engage attendees about everything from fall protection, ladders, and scaffolds to excavations, electrical systems, and underground utilities.

The event will feature the OSHA 10-hour training for construction, training in work zone safety and flagging, and first-responder training. Certifications and recertifications will be available. Attendees will have access to continuing education credits, including credits through Oregon’s Construction Contractors Board and Landscape Contractors Board.

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, encourages employers and workers to attend the annual Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit at the Riverhouse Lodge Convention Center in Bend. Oregon OSHA is one of several partners sponsoring the event.

The event’s keynote presentation, “The Undeniable Appeal of Risk,” will be delivered by Rachel Walla-Housman, founder of Ally Safety. On Tuesday, Walla-Housman will explore the undeniable appeal of risk, misconceptions about it, and how understanding the misconceptions can lead to better risk-taking decisions.

The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit’s sessions include:

• Fall Protection/Prevention
• Welding Safety
• Underground Utility Safety
• Incident Accident Investigation
• Excavation Safety
• Pre-task Plans
• Energize Your Safety Committee
• Construction A-Z
• Electrical Safety for the Non-electrician
• Employment Law
• Substance Abuse in the Workplace
• Mental Health Awareness
• Safety and the Supervisor

Registration for the event’s preconference workshops (Monday) is $85. Conference registration (Tuesday) is $130. Registration for the OSHA 10-hour training for construction is $175 for both days. The cost of the first-aid workshop (Monday) is $100. Register at safetyseries.cventevents.com/summit26.

For more information, contact the Oregon OSHA Conference Section at 503-947-7411 or egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov">oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov. For information about upcoming safety conferences, visit Oregon OSHA’s online conferences page.

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

The Board of Directors for Clackamas Fire District will hold a regular board meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The board meeting agenda will cover monthly division reports, a Life-Saving Award presentation, a presentation on renewing SDIS insurance, a request for board approval of the SDIS insurance renewal, a fuel services contract with Jubitz Corp., and a roof replacement project with Nimbus Roofing.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, December 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/. 

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Clackamas Fire Training Center (15990 SE 130^th Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Clackamas Fire District’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/. 

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management continues a highly successful prescribed burn season, having treated more than 18,000 acres of public lands since the beginning of September. These efforts reduce hazardous fuels, improve wildlife habitat, and build more resilient landscapes across the region.

“BLM fire staff have stayed prepared, so we’re ready to capitalize on windows with the safest burning conditions,” said Michael Solheim, fire management specialist. “We’ve been waiting for rain and for drought conditions to gradually improve. These conditions are essential to executing treatments effectively and maintaining our commitment to protect communities and restore landscape resilience.”

Prescribed burning is one of the most effective tools land managers have to reduce excessive vegetation and restore native ecosystems. This season’s burns have helped return nutrients to the soil, stimulate new plant growth, and maintain open spaces, while also supporting a sustained yield of timber and forage for cattle.

Many landscapes in Oregon and Washington have evolved with fire, making it a vital, natural process. Through careful application, prescribed burning helps maintain watershed health, protect water quality, and sustain the biodiversity that characterizes these fire-adapted ecosystems.

Crews rely on detailed weather monitoring, fire-modeling tools and careful planning to ensure burns are conducted safely and effectively. The BLM works closely with rural fire departments, federal and state agencies, and nonprofit partners throughout the year to focus on critical work.

“We’re grateful to our neighbors for supporting this work,” said Solheim. “Prescribed fire requires patience, especially when smoke is visible, but it’s an investment in long-term safety and healthier public lands.”

For more information about prescribed fire and ongoing fuel reduction efforts, visit the BLM’s website.

-BLM-

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

USING GPS IN WINTER

Winter officially begins on December 21^st and comes with an important reminder to drive with extra care. The Oregon Department of Transportation has some excellent tips to keep in mind when using GPS to navigate this winter:

Most navigation tools don't take current road or weather conditions into consideration. They may direct you onto remote roads that are neither maintained or passible in all weather conditions. Because of this, here are a few tips to consider:

What you can do:

• Be aware that the app on your phone or in your GPS device might not have the latest information. Don't follow it blindly!
• Use TripCheck.com (available online and on your phone) before you go to get the latest on state road conditions. You can also call 511.
• Remember, in winter conditions (or in summer's fire season), roads can be impassable, so use common sense.
• If you are not familiar with an area and current road conditions, stay on state roads and don't attempt detours onto roads you don't know.
• Alter your travel plans. If you are not sure of the route and conditions your device directs you to, ask local folks for information and consult a map. It is better to stay the night in town rather than be stuck on a remote road in the middle of nowhere.

What ODOT will do:

• ODOT crews work continually to keep state highways safe, but during certain conditions, such as blowing snow and freezing temperatures, you may want to avoid travel altogether.
• ODOT will issue media flash alerts if roads are closed. These will be updated continually on TripCheck.com​.

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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Portland, Ore. - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) strongly condemns recent threats and actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that jeopardize the safety, health, and well-being of immigrant communities across Oregon. Immigrants are vital members of our state and our healthcare system—serving as frontline nurses, providers, caregivers, and essential staff who keep our hospitals operating every day.

ICE’s behavior in targeting immigrants is wrong and fundamentally inconsistent with our values as Oregonians. These actions—whether carried out or threatened—create fear that keeps people from going to work, moving freely in their communities, and seeking medical care when they need it most. No person should fear accessing necessary care. That fear violates the most basic principles of being a frontline nurse, provider, or caregiver.

In recent months, ICE has been bringing detainees to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center for medical treatment. Frontline nurses and staff have raised serious concerns about the well-being of these patients and reported highly unusual ICE conduct, including inconsistent application of Legacy’s own policies—particularly when compared to the clear, established protocols used with other law-enforcement agencies. These discrepancies raise profound concerns about patient safety, legal compliance, and the protection of basic patient rights.

Nurses are also witnessing significant gaps between Legacy’s written policies and what is occurring in practice. Yesterday, the Oregon Nurses Association formally notified the President of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center of these issues and requested immediate, collaborative action with nurses, frontline staff, and ONA to correct them. Our letter also called for a meeting within the next 14 days to begin addressing these urgent concerns and ensure that all patients receive safe, lawful, and dignified care.

Additionally, we asked for immediate steps to protect patients, and staff, including:

• Creating an ICE credential-verification log to ensure transparency, accountability, and legal compliance. 
• Strengthening clinical documentation of all ICE-related encounters, including arrest circumstances, use of force, and agent behavior. 
• Protecting patient rights by providing “Know Your Rights” information, connecting detainees with legal and social-support resources, and affirming that all patients—including those in custody—retain full HIPAA protections. 
• Limiting officer presence in clinical areas and requiring agents to step out during sensitive exams when clinically appropriate. 
• Centralizing all protected health information (PHI) disclosures and eliminating informal or bedside disclosures to law enforcement. 
• Safeguarding clinical judgment by documenting any care interruptions requested by ICE and reaffirming that law enforcement is never the medical decisionmaker. 
• Establishing a joint labor–management working group and guaranteeing non-retaliation for nurses who report concerns. 

ONA’s mission is clear: we are here to protect patient privacy, uphold human dignity, and provide compassionate, equitable care to every person who walks through the doors of the hospitals and clinics where we work. The more than 24,000 represented healthcare professionals of the Oregon Nurses Association are steadfast in ensuring that Oregon’s healthcare system remains a place of healing—never an extension of law enforcement—where all people, regardless of immigration status, can receive care without fear.

We call on healthcare executives and elected leaders to stand with us by defending patient rights, enforcing and strengthening transparent policies, and holding ICE accountable. Trust is foundational to effective health care, and we must ensure that every patient—without exception—feels safe seeking the care they need.

ONA will continue advocating for the rights, safety, and dignity of all patients—and for the healthcare workers who provide their care every day. We will not allow fear to take root in Oregon’s healthcare system.

• You can read the full letter here. 

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SALEM, Ore. — A virtual rulemaking hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 to gather public input on repealing rules relating to the administration of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF). Public comment can be made by joining the Teams meeting.

The proposed repeal of rules was prompted by statute changes made by House Bill 3940 in the 2025 Regular Session. View the notice of proposed rulemaking for draft repealed rule language.

Comments can also be sent to sch@odf.oregon.gov">nancy.hirsch@odf.oregon.gov until 5 p.m. on Jan. 1.

For additional information, please visit ODF’s rulemaking activity webpage.

Salem, OR—Connecting with the Oregon Department of Revenue through Revenue Online is the most significant step taxpayers can take now to improve their income tax filing experience in 2026.

“We do everything online. That’s how we pay our bills. That’s where we get our news. We use smart TVs for our entertainment and smart phones to connect with each other. It’s a digital world and Revenue Online is the portal to the best safe and secure digital tax experience,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Personal Tax and Compliance Division for the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Revenue Online is especially useful for the growing number of Oregon taxpayers filing electronic state returns, she said.

Nearly 95 percent of Oregon returns were filed electronically in 2025 and for Oregon taxpayers anxious to claim their share of a $1.41 billion kicker next year, electronic filing will be even more important in 2026, Denison said.

Oregonians can expect delays in the processing of paper-filed personal income tax returns next year, due to the late receipt of tax forms and information from the IRS in late 2025. Processing of paper-filed returns is expected to be delayed until late March, a process that has historically begun in February. Oregon residents who normally mail their tax return to the department should consider using Direct File Oregon, a free filing option available through Revenue Online, or another tax preparation service, to file their return electronically in 2026 for faster processing.

Despite multiple IRS delays, the department expects to be ready to begin processing electronically filed state returns when the IRS opens e-filing for federal returns. The IRS has not yet announced that date.

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper-returns and request a paper refund check have generally received their refunds within four weeks – a turn around that is expected to be significantly longer in 2026 due to these delays.

For e-filed returns, the department is on track to begin issuing personal income tax refunds on February 15, in line with years past. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

Denison encouraged taxpayers who already have a Revenue Online account to log in to their account before tax season to make sure their password is current and double-check things like the address they have on file with the agency and any estimated tax payments they have made.

Oregon taxpayers who don’t have an ROL account should sign up before the 2026 tax season.

“Using Revenue Online is the best way to communicate with us and the quickest way to get your refund. You can access letters we send to you and respond electronically through your Revenue Online account. It will also provide the best experience for taxpayers tracking the processing of their return using the state’s improved ‘Where’s My Refund’ tool,” she said.

Users who are logged in to Revenue Online will have access to upgraded features to the “Where’s My Refund” tool, including clearer messaging about the status of their refund. Early electronic filers should remember that returns will be processed in the order they are received, and the department will begin issuing refunds on February 15.. Taxpayers using e-file should wait one week after filing before using the “Where’s My Refund” tool. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.

Key taxpayer benefits of having and using a Revenue Online account include:

• Access to an upgraded “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
• Account status updates including any activity, credits, or balances.
• Easy viewing and response to correspondence sent to them by the department.
• A secure way to send web messages to department staff, including uploading documents regarding their account.
• Simple and free filing of tax returns for certain tax programs—including the Direct File Oregon tool for personal income taxes—and submitting appeals or penalty waiver requests.
• Sending payments electronically while being able to save their information for future use.
• Viewing activity from previous tax periods and generating Personal Income Tax transcripts.

Creating an account is simple. Go to Revenue Online, click Sign Up in the box at the top right and follow the prompts. Taxpayers who need help can watch a how to video or ask the department’s virtual assistant Doug, for assistance.

To help safeguard taxpayer’s personal information, the department encourages taxpayers to enable two-factor authentication when setting up their account. Taxpayers can choose to receive security codes through a trusted authentication app – such as Google Authenticator – or opt to receive codes via text message or email. These added layers of protection make it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your account. Now is a great time to review your security settings and choose the method that works best for you.

Other important steps taxpayers can take now to improve their filing experience next year include:

• Gathering and organizing tax records.
• Using a bank account and direct deposit to get refunds quicker.
• Making sure they have filed a 2024 return so they can claim their kicker.
• Choosing a reputable tax return preparer

A full guide to preparing now tax season can be found on the Department of Revenue website.

Denison also pointed out that free help filing a return is available for those who need it.

Taxpayers can also signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits.

Contact ODHS if you have questions about these new rules or if you think they may apply to you

(Salem) - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ended Oregon’s SNAP work-rule waivers in November 2025. Because of this, Oregon began applying the work rules statewide starting Dec. 1, 2025, expanding from six counties to all counties. This change affects approximately 37,000 people in Oregon today, and the number of people impacted is expected to increase over time.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is here to help, if you have questions about these new work rules or think they may apply to you, contact ODHS right away.

The change is required by a new federal law passed on July 4, 2025, along with new guidance from the USDA. This means that work rules for some adults who get Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits are now in effect across Oregon. These rules apply to people who have Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) status. ODHS has notified everyone who is affected by this change.

What changed

Oregon had previously waived ABAWD work requirements in 30 of 36 counties and all Tribal lands because of limited job opportunities. These waivers were scheduled to last until Dec. 31, 2025. USDA ended them earlier.

A recent federal law also changed who must follow ABAWD work rules. These rules now apply to:

• Adults ages 18–64
• Adults who do not have children under age 14 in their SNAP household

This is a change from the previous rules, which applied only to adults up to age 54 and households without children under age 18.

Some groups who were previously exempt now must meet work rules. This includes:

• Veterans
• People who were in foster care
• People experiencing homelessness

New exemption added:

People who are enrolled members of a federally recognized Tribe, or who have a parent or grandparent who is, are exempt from ABAWD work rules.

People who live on the following waived Tribal Lands are also exempt from work rules, even if they are not an enrolled tribal member or descendant:

• Burns Paiute Tribe Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land  

• Coquille Indian Tribe Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land 

• Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians Reservation  

• Klamath Tribes Reservation

• Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land 

A full list of exemptions is on the ODHS SNAP Work Rules website.

What people with ABAWD status must do

People with ABAWD status who do not qualify for an exemption must:

• Work or take part in approved work or training activities for at least 80 hours each month. The work can be paid or unpaid, including trading work for shelter.

If they do not meet the 80-hour requirement:

• They may only get SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period (36 months).

For example: If someone does not meet SNAP work requirements in January, February and March, they will lose food benefits beginning in April. In Oregon, the current three-year period ends December 31, 2027. If their situation changes before then, like moving to a waived area or qualifying for an exemption, they may be able to get SNAP again.

What people should do now

People who think they may be affected should contact the ODHS ABAWD Unit as soon as possible:

• Phone: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

The ABAWD unit can help people learn:

• If they qualify for an exemption
• If they are already meeting the work rules
• If they should connect with the Oregon Employment Department (OED) to create a work or training plan to meet the work rules

ODHS and OED are working together to help SNAP recipients meet ABAWD work rules through job search, training and education services. A referral from ODHS is required to participate in OED ABAWD services.

OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, Dec. 27 through Wednesday, Dec. 31.
 

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico.
 

The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching

 

This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast.
 

Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and park rangers.
 

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
 

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
 

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/

 

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #ORWhaleWatch.
 

Media Resources: photos available at this link.

REDMOND, Ore. - The Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (OYCP) held its graduation ceremony for Class 70 on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, for 160 Cadets who completed its 22-week program. The graduation ceremony took place at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. OYCP is an alternative high school operated by the Oregon National Guard, located in Bend, Oregon.

“Today, 160 cadets will walk across the stage thanks to the collaborative effort of the Youth ChalleNGe staff, the Oregon National Guard, the Department of Education, the Oregon Legislature, the Governor's Office, our advisory board, and the Deschutes County community,” said Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program. “The growth and transformation you see in the cadets over these past five months is no accident. It’s a direct reflection of their connection, passion, and commitment.”

The program offers at-risk students a second chance to earn credits. It also lets participants re-enter high school, graduate on time with their peers, or graduate from OYCP with a state-accredited high school diploma.

In delivering his welcome message as the guest speaker for the ceremony, Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny congratulated them on their accomplishments over the past five months, but also addressed their future.

“Today is not the end. It’s a transition point. It’s an important transition point; nevertheless, academically, each of you followed the pathway in your past, in your own situation, and each situation is unique,” he said, reminding each cadet of the journey that brought them to OYCP. “Whether rebuilding credits, or accomplishing a GED certificate, completing your high school graduation, or following other academic plans…you did the work, you met the requirement, and earned being here today. That's super important, and congratulations to each of you.”

The mission of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program is to provide opportunities for personal growth, self-improvement, and academic achievement for high school dropouts, teens who are no longer attending school, and those who are academically struggling. This is achieved through a highly structured, non-traditional environment that integrates training, mentoring, and a variety of educational activities.

In 1999, the Oregon National Guard established the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (OYCP) in Bend, Oregon, as an intervention initiative aimed at helping teens who had either dropped out of high school or were at risk of not graduating. The term "at-risk" refers to students who might not complete their high school education. To support these at-risk students, the Department of Defense invested in the OYCP's challenge model, which focuses on youth development and community outreach.

Attendees must be between 15 and 18 years old, be legal residents of the U.S. and Oregon, and be academically behind in high school credits or at risk of not graduating. OYCP can be reached via their website at https://www.oycp.com or by calling 541-317-9623.      

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Released photos:

251210-Z-CH590-1103: Cadet Larson M. Szulc, Student Body President of Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program, delivers opening remarks at the graduation ceremony for Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1111: The Oregon Youth Challenge Program, Graduating Class 70, stands as the Color Guard enters for their graduation ceremony at the Fair & Expo Center, Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, offering at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1117: A group of Cadets led the singing of the National Anthem for their graduation ceremony for Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1127: Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny delivers the welcoming address as the guest speaker during the Oregon Youth Challenge Program Graduating Class 70 at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon, on Dec. 10, 2025. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1138: Several Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program cadets are recognized for their outstanding achievements during the graduation ceremony for Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program, held at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon, on Dec. 10, 2025. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1145: Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (left) and Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny (right) pauses for a photo with Cadet Jennifer  Gil-Rodriguez as she received her award as the Class Valedictorian during the OYCP Graduation of Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1146: Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (left) and Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny (right) pauses for a photo with Cadet Julissa Espinoza Gonzalez as she received her award for Overall Outstanding Cadet of the Company during the OYCP Graduation of Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1335: Cadet Yazlyne Martinez celebrates with her family and friends after the graduation ceremony for the Oregon Youth Challenge Program Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)