VENETA, Ore. – Firefighters are actively engaged on a fire burning at the junction of Highway 126 and Highway 36 at Mapleton. The Rice Road Fire has caused the Oregon Dept. of Transportation to close both highways at the junction in both directions. Motorists are asked to avoid the area for their safety and that of firefighters working to put out the fire.

The fire was reported at 1:42 p.m. Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Western Lane District responded as well as firefighting units from the Coos Forest Protective Association, the USDA Forest Service and several rural fire districts. The fire is estimated at five to six acres in size. The cause is under investigation.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 Go Now evacuation order at 2:10 p.m. for residents on Rice Road, Hillcrest Road and First Avenue in Mapleton. Questions about evacuations should be directed to the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at 541-520-2646, option 1.

ODF has six fire engines, a hand crew of 20, two fallers, a dozer and a Type 2 (midsize) helicopter working on the fire today.

Although temperatures in the area were in the 60s today, dry conditions across much of western Oregon highlight the increasing risk of fires starting from almost any source.  That’s one reason almost all of ODF’s districts are already in declared fire seasons, with various restrictions in place to reduce possible fire starts. To find restrictions in your area, go to https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/pfr.html

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• Friday, June 20, 2025 at 11:30 a.m.
• Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site Parking Lot: 1 Jordan Road Troutdale, OR 97060

Media are invited to attend a media availability event with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue (MCSOSAR) team. The event will focus on critical hiker safety tips and precautions for visitors exploring the Columbia River Gorge, especially as the busy summer season approaches. MCSOSAR youth volunteers, adult advisors and MCSO search and rescue coordinators will be available for interviews, to demonstrate essential safety gear and to discuss tips and strategies to help hikers stay safe.

The Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination for hikers, but its rugged terrain can present significant risks. Each year, MCSOSAR responds to numerous incidents involving lost or injured hikers. This media availability aims to educate the public on how to safely enjoy the Gorge's natural beauty and reduce the number of preventable search and rescue operations.

Topics covered will include:

• The "10 Essentials" for safe hiking

• Understanding trail conditions and weather changes

• Importance of telling someone your itinerary

• Navigational tools and their limitations (e.g., cell service in the Gorge)

• What to do if you become lost or injured

RSVP:  Media planning to attend are kindly requested to RSVP at pio@mcso.us. 

SHARING THE ROAD: CYCLISTS AND MOTORISTS 

Cycling has become more popular as a recreational activity and as alternative transportation. As the weather continues to get nicer and more cycling events come into season, expect to see more bicycles on the road and in shared community spaces. Both cyclists and motorists have responsibility to follow traffic laws and to take additional precautions to keep everyone safe.

Bicycles on streets and highways are considered, by law, a vehicle, and are required to obey the rules of the road. This means they must follow the laws that apply to all vehicles and laws specific to cyclists. Weather, experience, and traffic can impact the safety of sharing the road. Using additional caution and patience can help keep our roads safer for everyone involved.

Motorists should remember these tips:

• When a cyclist has stopped and remains on their bicycle at an intersection or a traffic signal, they are to be treated as a vehicle waiting for their turn to proceed.
• Be alert for small children on oversized bicycles. This may increase the likelihood for loss of control.
• When passing a cyclist, go around them like you would pass another vehicle and leave plenty of room.
• When you are preparing to make a right turn, watch for cyclists who may pull up alongside you. Remember to look over your shoulder to check your blind spots.
• When pulling away from the curb, merging, or preparing to turn, check for cyclists who may be trying to pass.
• When parked at the curb, check for cyclists before opening the vehicle door. It’s the driver's responsibility not to open the vehicle door into traffic.
• Do not follow too closely behind cyclists.
• Remember cyclists are entitled to make left turns in the same manner as other vehicles.
• Be aware of roadway conditions that may affect a cyclist.
• Weather such as fog or rain impact motorists and cyclists alike. Use additional caution in hazardous areas and during times of low visibility.
• Do not sound your horn unnecessarily. If you must use your horn, tap it quickly and lightly while you are still some distance away from the cyclist.
   

Cyclists should remember these tips while using streets and highways:

• Riding against the flow of traffic is illegal and increases your risk of injury and death.
• Cyclists are required to ride in bike lanes or paths when it is adjacent to the roadway with exceptions for right and left turns and to avoid hazards.
• In areas without bike lanes, cyclists are required to ride as close as practicable to the curb, however they may need to adjust to avoid grates, potholes, debris, gravel, sand, wet or slippery surfaces, rutted or grooved pavement and other hazards.
• Keep your hands on the handlebars except when making a hand signal.
• Keep your feet on the pedals.
• Do not carry more people on the bicycle than it was designed for.
• Do not hold onto, attach yourself or the bicycle to any other moving vehicle.
• Only ride side by side on the road with another cyclist when it does not impede other traffic.
• If there is not enough room to pass safely, ride single file.
• Ensure the bicycle is equipped with at least one white light to the front and a red light and or red reflector mounted on the rear of the bicycle.
• Wear reflective clothing or gear.
• Wear appropriate protective gear.
• Ensure the bicycle has effective brakes.
• Share your cycling plans with loved ones, include where you are going and when you are expected to return.

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

A sad update to this morning's three-alarm apartment fire in Hazel Dell.  While searching through the debris of the Ridgecrest Apartments on NE 104th Street investigators discovered a body.  The identity of the deceased has not been released, nor has the cause of the blaze.  The Clark County Fire Marshal's Office is responsible for releasing that information. Clark County Fire District 6 will not have any further updates today.

(Hazel Dell, WA)  A fast-moving blaze ripped through an apartment complex in Hazel Dell early Thursday morning, seriously injuring one resident and displacing at least 12 units of the Ridgecrest Apartments on NE 104^th Street.

The fire was called in at 12:30 a.m.,and triggered a massive response of all rigs from Clark County Fire District 6, as well as assistance from numerous engines from Vancouver Fire, and Clark Cowlitz Fire and Rescue.

Witnesses report hearing a person screaming, followed by a series of explosions.  When we arrived part of the apartment complex was already fully engulfed and residents were trying to evacuate.  A third alarm was called within minutes of our arrival.

So far, one person was transported to Emanual hospital with second degree burns.  A second injured resident declined treatment.  Firefighters are still in the process of searching for anyone still in the two-story complex. In all, 14 firefighting apparatus fought the blaze, plus two additional Battalion Chiefs and a number of support personell. 

The Red Cross has been called to provide temporary lodging for displaced residents.  The Clark County Fire Marshal is on scene to determine the cause of the blaze.

Still images are included in this news release, video will be sent separately via Hightail.  Clark County Fire District 6 Public Information Officer will be available on scene.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: June 18, 2025

Shooting in west Salem leaves one injured, suspect in custody

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 5:45 p.m. this evening, Salem Police officers responded to the 1200 block of Orchard Heights RD NW after receiving multiple reports of gunfire.

Witnesses reported seeing a disturbance involving a group of teenagers on the south side of the road when the shots erupted. A male suspect was then seen running from the area.

Arriving officers found a 21-year-old male victim with multiple gunshot wounds. They provided immediate medical aid to the victim before paramedics arrived. The victim was transported to Salem Health in serious condition.

A search for the suspect was carried out with a canine team and a drone. The 16-year-old suspect was located in the 1000 block of Cascade DR NW and taken into custody without incident.

The teenager was transported to the Yamhill Juvenile Detention Center and faces related charges in a Polk County court.

While the scene was investigated, Orchard Heights RD NW was closed between Chapman Hill RD and the entrance to Orchard Heights Park for approximately three hours.

The incident remains an active investigation; therefore, all media inquiries must be directed to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

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DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. 18 June 2025 – On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at about 6:35 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash in Deschutes County near the Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Husqvarna motorcycle, operated by Beau Douglas Gibney (36) of Sisters, was traveling southbound on Forest Service Road 46 (also known as Century Drive and Cascade Lakes Highway) when it drove off the west shoulder roadway near milepost 24 and struck a tree stump. Both the operator and a passenger, Joeana Erica Spackman (34) of Bend, were thrown from the motorcycle.

The operator (Gibney) was pronounced deceased at the scene despite life-saving efforts.

The passenger (Spackman) was transported by air ambulance to a local hospital with serious injuries.

Speed and impairment are believed to be contributing factors in the crash.

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

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Bend Fire and Rescue.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 

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

Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Vancouver Lake due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.

Results from water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday, June 16 revealed toxin levels above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health. Warning signs are being placed at public access points at the lake.

A warning advisory is also in place at Lacamas Lake due to elevated toxin levels from harmful algae. The Lacamas Lake warning advisory has been in place since June 4.

Cyanotoxins can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water. While the warning advisories are in place, health officials recommend:

• No swimming.
• No water contact for animals.
• Avoiding areas of scum when using motorized boats, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing.
• No drinking lake water.
• Cleaning fish well and discarding organs.

Public Health will continue to monitor the lakes and, while blooms are present, take weekly water samples to test toxin levels. Signs will be updated as conditions change.

Harmful algal blooms can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or contact skin. Inhaled bacteria or toxins could cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact could lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation.

If water with cyanotoxins is accidentally swallowed, symptoms could include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, numbness of the lips, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness.

Additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories are posted on the Public Health website. To report algal blooms in other bodies of water, visit the Public Health website.

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland man made his first appearance in federal court today after he was charged with assaulting a federal law enforcement officer on Monday near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Deni Jungic Wolf, 19, has been charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer resulting in bodily injury.

According to court documents, on June 16, 2025, approximately 25 people gathered in protest at an ICE office in South Portland where some individuals trespassed onto federal property and erected a make-shift shield wall that blocked vehicle traffic. At approximately 11:00pm the same evening, the crowd was advised that the property was closed and were directed to disperse. Additional federal officers, including Customs and Border Protection Tactical Unit (BORTAC) agents, were dispatched to the location to clear the barricade.

Federal officers approached the barricade holding shields to clear the obstruction. As the officers encountered the barricade, Wolf pushed into the shields with his body. A federal officer grabbed Wolf to prevent him from falling backwards and Wolf punched the officer’s head, knocking the officer’s mask from his face. The officer was exposed to pepper spray and pepper-ball dust that had been deployed to assist in clearing the barrier. Surveillance footage of the incident showed the assailant wearing distinctive red gloves, and Wolf was wearing red gloves when he was arrested.  

Wolf made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Assaulting a federal officer resulting in bodily injury is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

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Portland, OR — All are welcome to attend the next America 250 Oregon Commission meeting, which will be held virtually at 1pm on Friday, June 20. Register here if you would like to join the live conversation. If you are unable to attend, the meeting recording and minutes will be posted online at oregon250.org in the coming weeks.

The meeting agenda is available online, with topics including the launch of the America 250 Oregon community calendar and two original traveling exhibitions that are now available to rent.

America 250 Oregon Community Calendar

The America 250 Oregon Commission invites individuals, organizations, and communities across the state to participate in our state’s official 250th commemoration by hosting events that reflect the diversity, creativity, and history of Oregon. Whether you’re planning a lecture, festival, exhibition, performance, community conversation, or something entirely unique — the commission wants to hear from you!

To be featured on the America 250 Oregon community calendar, your event must align with at least one of the commission guideposts — the foundational values guiding our semiquincentennial commemoration effort in Oregon.

Fill out the Event Submission Form if you would like your event included on the America 250 Oregon community calendar. All submissions will be reviewed and could take up to 3 weeks for response. Please submit a separate form for each program, project, or event you plan to host. Approved events will receive the “America 250 Oregon Official Event” logo for inclusion on promotional materials.

America 250 Oregon Traveling Exhibitions

The America 250 Oregon Commission is currently offering two traveling exhibitions that are available to rent at no cost!

The Power of Place highlights Oregon’s awe-inspiring landscapes, from its rugged coastline to its tranquil valleys and majestic peaks, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries.

The Pursuit of Happiness shifts the focus to the people and communities of Oregon and the way we gather to celebrate the diverse cultures that define our state. 

Both exhibitions are also available to view for free online here.

Get Involved

If you or your organization is interested in getting involved with the America 250 Oregon commemoration, please contact egon.250@ohs.org">oregon.250@ohs.org or sign up for the official America 250 Oregon email list.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County Elections has confirmed that an administrative error by the Oregon Elections Division mistakenly reversed the unofficial election results for two Cannon Beach charter amendment measures: Measure 04-235 and Measure 04-236.

The issue was discovered on Monday, June 16, during the County’s official election certification process. The vote counts were not affected, and the certified results are correct. The will of the voters remains unchanged.

According to the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office, the reversal occurred due to a manual data entry error. Two internal tracking numbers used for ballot measures were entered incorrectly, causing the results for the two measures to be mislabeled on the state’s elections website.

What Are the Measures?

• Measure 04-235: City of Cannon Beach Charter Amendment Requiring Voter Approval to Incur Debt
  This citizen-initiated measure proposed requiring a public vote for any nonemergency city debt exceeding 50% of the previous year's government activity revenues.
• Measure 04-236: City of Cannon Beach Charter Amendment Clarifying Voter Approval for Issuance of Debt
  Introduced by the city, this measure aimed to clarify existing charter language regarding voter approval for issuing debt.

What Happened?

While the vote totals were accurate, the results on the SOS website were incorrectly labeled online. Measure 04-235 was shown as 04-236 and vice versa. The discrepancy was identified before certification as part of Clatsop County’s routine election verification procedures and promptly reported to the state.

Clatsop County Clerk Tracie Krevanko emphasized the reliability of the County’s local reporting system.

“The results were correctly posted from Clatsop County Elections on election night,” Krevanko said. “It was during our thorough certification process that we noticed the discrepancy between our results and how they appeared on the state’s website. That’s exactly why these checks and balances are in place—to catch and correct any administrative issues before results are finalized.”

The Oregon Elections Division has corrected the online listings for the two measures, and a full review confirmed that no other unofficial election results were impacted by similar errors.

“The Secretary of State’s office takes full responsibility for the error that caused the results for two ballot measures in Cannon Beach to be flipped in the unofficial election night reporting website. We conducted a full review of the unofficial results for every other race in the state and confirmed this was an isolated incident. We are adding additional controls to prevent errors like this from happening again because we know Oregonians are counting on us to get this right,” said Deputy Oregon Secretary of State Michael Kaplan.

Key Points:

• Vote counts were not affected.
• Certified election results accurately reflect voter intent.
• Measure 04-235 failed; Measure 04-236 passed.
• The discrepancy involved labeling only, not vote totals.
• Additional safeguards are now in place to prevent similar issues.

Clatsop County voters with questions are encouraged to contact the County Clerk at (503) 325-8511 or visit www.clatsopcounty.gov/elections.

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Scholarship program has awarded $141,000 since 2018

PORTLAND, Ore., June 18, 2025 — OnPoint Community Credit Union and the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) announced today, six graduating Oregon seniors have been awarded scholarships totaling $40,000. It’s part of the OnPoint Community Credit Union Scholar Program. OnPoint and the OSAA have awarded $141,000 toward the post-graduation goals of 37 students since the scholarship program began in 2018.

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

“These six students have gone above and beyond in not only academics and sports, but in showing a commitment to their communities,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Their leadership, curiosity, and persistence are truly inspiring. We are proud to help them pursue their dreams, and excited to see how they continue to have a positive impact on the world around them.”

$10,000 Scholarship Recipients

Brian Cortez-Cabezas
Eagle Point High School, Eagle Point School District

Brian demonstrated leadership as a three-sport athlete, team captain, and ASB Vice President. As the oldest of six siblings, he balanced academics, athletics, and family responsibilities with discipline and maturity. He graduated in the top 2% of his class with a 4.21 GPA, earned a Seal of Biliteracy in English and Spanish, and was named 2025 Student of the Year.

Sylvia Eckman
Roseburg High School, Roseburg Public Schools
After a tumor diagnosis at the start of her senior year, Sylvia returned to win a league cross-country title and graduated as valedictorian with 72 college credits. She served as a school board representative, edited three nationally awarded yearbooks, led the community clothing closet, and authored a successful grant to fund a second student needs center.

$5,000 Scholarship Recipients

Ileana Barsotti
McMinnville High School, McMinnville School District
Ileana transformed personal challenges into leadership opportunities. She earned a 4.258 GPA, was named an Academic All-American, AP Scholar with Distinction, and AP Rural and Small Town honoree. As Environmental Club president and National Honor Society member, she completed over 500 hours of community service and supported local Spanish-speaking families through translation services.

Vikram Javali
Liberty High School, Hillsboro School District
Vikram excelled academically with a 4.21 GPA and will be the first in his family to attend college. He served on the Hillsboro Youth Advisory Council, worked on youth homelessness initiatives, and volunteered at the public library to assist seniors with technology. He also participated in robotics, HOSA competitions, and tutored students in math.

Morgan L. Johnson

Union High School, Union School District
Despite facing the simultaneous cancer diagnoses of both parents, Morgan led through adversity. He organized a cancer awareness fundraiser, captained the football team, served as class president, and graduated as valedictorian with a 4.367 GPA. He volunteered with the Lions Club, Earth Day events, and the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show.

Mae Roth
Sisters High School, Sisters School District
Mae rebounded from a disappointing junior season to set a new school record in pole vault. A three-sport athlete with a 3.76 GPA, she led the Project Unify Special Olympics team, coached middle school athletes, created fire-safe zones for local seniors, and contributed to outdoor leadership programs.

All graduating seniors who participated in OSAA activities were eligible to apply for a scholarship. The Scholar Program is part of OnPoint’s partnership with OSAA as the title sponsor of the Oregon high school state championships.

OnPoint selected winners based on letters of recommendation and personal essays about their community leadership, classroom success, and how participating in OSAA activities has helped them achieve their goals.

Visit OnPoint’s Community Giving page to learn more about OnPoint’s support for local organizations like OSAA.

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About the OSAA

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) is a private, non-profit board-governed association comprised of 299 member high schools. A member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, the OSAA annually sponsors 118 state championships in 19 sports and activities. For more information, visit www.osaa.org or follow @OSAASports on social media.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 613,000 members and with assets of $9.7 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 two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com or 800-527-3932.

Salem, OR — Older adults and people with disabilities who qualify for assistance can request free emergency kits and batteries to stay safe during disasters.

Emergencies like wildfires, heat waves and floods can happen at any time. It’s important to be ready. But for many people, it’s hard to know where to begin. They also may not have money for supplies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) saw that many people needed help getting ready for emergencies. This was especially true for older adults, people with physical disabilities, and those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Many of them rely on electricity for important medical and safety equipment.

To help, ODHS got support from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Two ODHS programs — the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) and the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) — used ARPA funds to give emergency supplies to those in need.

What’s available now?

APD has about 18,000 emergency kits and 1,200 power stations available for older adults and people with physical disabilities who get Medicaid in-home supports. Those who qualify get long-term services and supports through APD and some county governments

These items include:

• Emergency kits — These kits are filled with supplies like flashlights, blankets, first aid items and food.
• Power stations — These are portable, rechargeable batteries. They can provide power when the electricity is out.

If you think you qualify and want supplies, please contact your case manager. If you don’t know who your case manager is, call or visit the local office where you receive APD services. ODHS lists contact information for all state and county offices that provide services.

What has already been done?

APD has given out roughly:

• 2,000 emergency kits
• 500 power stations

ODDS worked with its partners to give out:

• 20,137 emergency kits
• 7,047 power stations
• 1,276 generators

Some ODDS partners held distribution events, trainings and emergency fairs. They also helped connect service providers with local emergency teams. These efforts reached 22,780 people, 478 service sites, and 41 emergency hubs across Oregon.

Being ready can make a big difference. ODHS is proud to support the safety and well-being of people across Oregon.

The American Rescue Plan Act

Oregon is among the states that have led the nation in innovative ways to provide home and community-based services (HCBS). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon Department of Human Services used funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to sustain, recover and expand the state’s services. These essential investments continue to benefit people with disabilities, older adults and the workers who serve them. This project was funded by the ARPA.

Photo information

Staff from the Multnomah County Department of Human Services gave out emergency supplies at weekly events last fall and winter. Watch a video about these events. Photo courtesy of Multnomah County Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer. Contact ODHS at 503-945-5811 or odhs.info@odhsoha.oregon.gov. We accept calls from all forms of relay service for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind, blind or have low vision. For more information about relay service providers visit https://www.oregonrelay.com or https://www.fcc.gov/general/internet-based-trs-providers.

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June 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA issues recreational use advisory issued for Lake Billy Chinook

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today issued a recreational use health advisory for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County, due to the presence cyanotoxins above recreational use values for human exposure.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Lake Billy Chinook and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

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

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June 18, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Fern Ridge Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Fern Ridge Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom. The lake is in Lane County.

The decision to issue the advisory is based on a report of a toxigenic bloom from a partner agency. Results of testing in the days to come will either confirm the advisory or allow us to lift.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Fern Ridge Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from mats attached to the bottom of the lake, floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (June 18, 2025) — On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at about 2:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash in Jackson County near Ashland.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a black Honda Civic, operated by Terielizabeth Smead (68) of Lemon Grove (CA), was traveling northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 4 when it left its lane of travel and struck a Freightliner semi-truck and trailer, operated by Shekib Hakimi (30) of Carmichael, (CA), parked on the shoulder.

A passenger in the Honda, Harry Smead (74) of Lemon Grove (CA), was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Honda (T. Smead) was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Freightliner (Hakimi) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Fire and Rescue, Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, Jackson County Medical Examiner, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive, Budget Hearing & Board Business Meeting Meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Recognition of Sonja McKenzie, Budget Hearing and adoption, consent agenda, Superintendent evaluation public report, Board chair and vice chair appointments for July, final goals report, draft cell phone policy and retreat agenda.  

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

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

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

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

Please note: An earlier edition of this news release had the incorrect county district listed. This opening is for an elected official from the county’s fourth district.

 

Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants to fill the position of elected official from the county’s fourth district on the volunteer Community Action Advisory Board.

The term begins immediately and is three years, ending Dec. 31, 2027. Incumbents have the opportunity for re-appointment to two additional three-year terms.

The fifteen-member board makes recommendations about local government funding for basic needs, self-sufficiency, and housing programs. Members also advocate for services supporting low-income communities, families and persons at local, state and federal levels.

Clark County is looking to diversify the board composition and encourages people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to apply, especially people of color and from historically oppressed or under-resourced communities.

Interested residents must submit an application and résumé to Abby Molloy, Clark County Community Services, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by.molloy@clark.wa.gov">abby.molloy@clark.wa.gov.

Application information can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/caab-community-action-advisory-board or by calling Abby Molloy at 564.397.7832.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, July 11.

A former Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) corrections deputy is facing multiple criminal charges, including official misconduct and supplying contraband, following a months-long investigation into alleged conduct that occurred both on and off duty. 

In January 2024, MCSO detectives launched a criminal investigation into 43-year old Devona Susanne Preble, when she was found to be in the company of a man wanted by authorities in a separate criminal case. At the time of the investigation, Preble had already been terminated by the Sheriff’s Office.

Detectives suspected the two were in a domestic relationship. Using recorded jail phone calls involving the man and Preble, detectives confirmed their relationship began in early 2023, while the man was in custody at the Multnomah County Detention Center and Preble was employed as a corrections deputy.

Detectives learned that in May 2023, Portland Police officers responded to a domestic disturbance at Preble’s residence. Portland Police officers reported to the Sheriff’s Office that Preble attempted to interfere with officers by concealing the man’s identity. Once he was identified, Preble admitted to officers that she was an MCSO corrections deputy.

Based on her conduct, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office terminated Preble. Preble was considered a probationary employee; she was within her first 12-months of work.

Further investigation, after her termination revealed that, in 2023, Preble brought drugs into the jail for the man while he was in custody.

On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, with assistance from the Portland Police Bureau’s Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT), MCSO deputies arrested Preble. She was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on the following charges:

• Supplying contraband, one count

• Conspiracy to supply contraband, one count

• Hindering prosecution, one count

• Official misconduct in the first degree, three counts

• Official misconduct in the second degree, three counts

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office acknowledges the Portland Police Bureau Narcotics and Organized Crime (NOC) team and SERT for their vital assistance in this investigation and arrest of Preble.

“Our deputies take an oath to uphold the law and maintain the highest ethical standards,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “The actions of this former employee violated that oath and compromised the integrity of our agency. This case underscores our commitment to accountability and public trust.”

Preble is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday, June 20, at 9 a.m. at the Multnomah County Justice Center.

No further comment will be provided at this time.

Chemeketa and community performers bring a reimagined, outdoor production of the beloved musical to life at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater

Salem, Ore., June 18, 2025 — What if Mary Poppins were alive and well today? This summer, audiences will find out as the magical nanny returns—complete with her iconic umbrella—for an enchanting new outdoor production under the stars at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater in Downtown Salem.

Presented by Chemeketa Community College, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical blends the charm of the original story with a contemporary twist, featuring a live orchestra, professional cast members from across the Willamette Valley, and the college’s own talented students. With beloved songs like “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” and “Step in Time,” this family-friendly production promises an unforgettable evening of music, magic, and storytelling.

The production stars professional performer Megan Smith as Mary Poppins—a role she’s played before to critical acclaim. Smith brings Disney experience and Broadway polish to the stage. Joining her as the lovable Bert is Benji Burgess, a dynamic talent and finalist on Hungary’s Got Talent. The show also features a full supporting orchestra, including musicians from the Salem Orchestra, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.

Audiences are encouraged to pack picnic baskets, bring lawn blankets or low-profile chairs, and settle in for six magical evenings:
July 29, 30, 31 and August 5, 6, 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Gerry Frank Amphitheater, Riverfront Park
Address: 200 Water Street NE, Salem, OR

Food trucks, BBQ, snacks, and beverages—including wine from Chemeketa’s Eola Winery—will be available on-site. Nearby parking is available at Chemeketa Parkade, Liberty Square Parkade, and Marion Parkade.

Please note: dogs are not permitted at the performance.

This event is more than entertainment—it’s a testament to Chemeketa’s commitment to community engagement and workforce development. Students gain hands-on experience working alongside seasoned professionals in a real-world production setting. Last year’s show led directly to job offers for some student performers and technicians.

Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins is licensed by Music Theatre International.

Proudly sponsored by: Capitol Auto Group, Gatti Law Firm, Sherman Sherman Johnnie & Hoyt, Leslie Dinsdale, Rubicon Investments, Stacey Jackson, Fischer Hayes Joye & Allen, LLC, Star Rentals, Huggins Insurance, CD Redding, Salem Electric, Forensic Research and Analysis, and the Salem Health Foundation.

For more information, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mary-poppins-summer-2025-4229633

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For more than 55 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 17,500 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Housing and Community Services is awarding more than $8.7 million to eligible organizations representing 27 counties to support veterans through down payment assistance and home repair funds.

“OHCS holds sacred its promise to service members and their families, insisting to deliver a better future,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “This promise is enduring. Today’s housing progress demonstrates how we go beyond words of thanks, taking concrete action to care for veterans and their families.”

Eleven organizations from Portland to Josephine County were awarded down payment assistance funds. Eligible veterans and their families at or below 100% of area median income can qualify for up to $60,000 depending on specific program guidelines. In addition, an amount up to 10% of the down payment assistance can be used for lender-required repairs.

“We are honored to be selected as a recipient of the veterans Down Payment Assistance funds. This award represents more than just financial support—it’s a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to expanding homeownership and building generational wealth for those who have served our country,” said Juan Campos, director of HOME Pathways, a program of the Community Development Corporation of Oregon. “We look forward to bringing this critical resource to more individuals and helping create financially resilient communities throughout Oregon.”

Six organizations also were awarded home repair funds, which assist homeowners who are veterans and are at risk of living in unhealthy homes or who are subject to potential displacement due to health and safety concerns. This allows veterans to enjoy the benefits of living in habitable, safe, healthy, and sustainable homes.

Homeowners who are veterans can apply for these resources to address issues such as:

• Accessibility/adaptability modifications
• Updates to code compliance
• Emergency repairs
• Repairs for structural integrity

OHCS acknowledges those families of veterans who helped shoulder the weight of war and the burdens of sacrifice, and thus these resources have been expanded to include serving the spouse of a deceased veteran.

Community in Action is one of the organizations that received funds for both down payment assistance and health and safety repairs.

“This grant enables Community in Action to accelerate our mission in Malheur and Harney counties, empowering more veterans to secure affordable homeownership or for current homeowners to access essential health and safety repairs,” said Kris Hurd, energy/weatherization manager at Community in Action. “We look forward to partnering with Oregon Housing and Community Services as we create a lasting impact for our veterans.”

To learn more about these and other down payment assistance resources, visit OHCS’ website.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and community partners joined together to spotlight the importance of preventing and reporting abuse of older adults in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). This observance serves as a critical reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the safety, dignity and rights of older adults across Oregon.

Every year, thousands of older Oregonians are subjected to various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, financial and neglect. In Oregon in 2024, there were 18,535 alleged victims, according to data collected by the Adult Protective Services (APS) unit within ODHS. However, many cases go unreported due to fear, isolation, or lack of awareness. Education and community engagement are essential to ensure people know what to do if they are being harmed or suspect someone they know could be at risk.

“Anyone can be a victim of abuse. Understanding the many forms that abuse takes and what to do about it is everyone’s responsibility,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D., Director of ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a time to strengthen our commitment to educate ourselves, check in on neighbors and relatives, and speak up when we see or suspect harm.”

In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is on June 15 each year, communities across Oregon held events this month, sharing educational materials and connecting with local organizations to help foster a safer environment for older adults.

In Klamath County, APD partnered with the Klamath & Lake Counties Council on Aging, the Klamath Basin Senior Citizens’ Center, and other local agencies to host a community resource fair on June 10. The event featured guest speakers, educational booths, engaging activities, giveaways, and a free lunch. A similar event was held the following day in Lake County at The Center (formerly the Lake County Senior Citizens Center). Hundreds of community members participated in the two events, showing strong local support for older adult abuse awareness and prevention. Events were also hosted virtually. Several APD leaders gave an informational presentation on June 12 at the Oregon Health Care Association’s Elder Abuse Prevention Summit 2025. The presentation focused on best practices facilities can implement to prevent abuse. Other topics covered at the summit included long-term care facility resident rights, effective abuse report investigations and navigating conflict.

Resources:

Anyone who suspects elder abuse is encouraged to call Oregon’s SafeLine at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). Reports are confidential and can be made twenty-four hours a day. Warning signs of abuse can include:

• Physical: Unexplained injuries or physical signs of punishment or restraint.
• Emotional: Anxiety, depression, or behavior changes.
• Neglect: Poor hygiene, bedsores, weight loss or unsafe living conditions.
• Abandonment: A dependent person left alone.
• Sexual: Withdrawal, distress or physical symptoms.
• Financial: Unexplained bank transactions, late bill payments or missing assets.

For more information on how to help spot, prevent and report abuse, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/report-abuse/pages/default.aspx

OREGON CITY – Join the Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center on an adventure of discovery at Nature Spy Discovery Days. Families will enjoy hands-on activities and games, explore the wetlands on naturalist-led walks, create nature crafts and more. Nature Spy Discovery Days will be held every other Saturday, July 5-Aug. 16, 10 a.m.-noon, during the Oregon City Farmers Market on the CCC Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave.

Program themes include:

• July 5 – Darting dragonflies
• July 19 – Pollinators
• Aug. 2 – Bats
• Aug. 16 – Owls

The cost is based on a sliding scale of free-$10 per person. Donations help keep these programs running. Preregistration is encouraged for planning purposes but not required. Register at https://bit.ly/ELC-discovery-days. For more information, email elcatccc@clackamas.edu. Learn more programs offered at the ELC, visit www.clackamas.edu/elc.  

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser.

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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Environmental Learning Center invites nature lovers of all ages to discover the art and science of nature journaling through Wonder Wednesdays: Intro to Nature Journaling. This enriching series provides a hands-on opportunity to explore the wetlands, sharpen observation skills and engage the senses in a relaxing, creative setting.

Led by a certified instructor, Wonder Wednesdays will be held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month:  July 9, July 23, Aug. 13 and Aug. 27, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Environmental Learning Center on the CCC Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. 

Activities are self-directed and designed for all ages and abilities. While adult supervision is required for younger children, participants are encouraged to drop in and stay as long as they like. Different nature prompts will be provided at each session, so attendees are welcome to come to one or all dates.

Supplies will be provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own notebooks or art materials. A sliding scale fee of $10-$20 helps cover material costs. Registration is not required, but is encouraged for planning purposes. To register or learn more, visit https://bit.ly/ELC-nature-journaling. 

For questions, contact Bethany Wray at ethany.wray@clackamas.edu" style="text-decoration-line: none;">bethany.wray@clackamas.edu.

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was established to demonstrate how people can reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year, thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. 

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The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on June 24, 2025.  The Board will be considering a supplemental budget.

This meeting will be held virtually through Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/87382512870?pwd=oGzvfoexeb8tNVHvJ5OFLjZUwve2Tu.1
Passcode:291237

The Oregon State Marine Board will hold its quarterly board meeting on June 26, beginning at 8:30 am at the Roseburg Public Library, Ford Family Room, 1409 NE Diamond Lake Blvd, in Roseburg.

The focus of this meeting is to discuss the Boating Facilities Program’s Cycle One boating facility grant requests for the 2025-2027 biennium. Twenty-six applications were received, with $11.6 million in project needs and applicants requesting $6.05 million for the competitive funding.

Other agenda items include:

• Klamath Project Update – Informational
• Maintenance Assistance Grant Program – Informational
• Clean Vessel Act Federal Funding – Board Vote
• Cycle One Grants – Board Vote

Public comments for this meeting will be accepted in writing or by attending the public comment portion at the beginning of the hybrid meeting. Pre-register to speak or send written comments no later than 5 pm on June 23, 2025, to .cooper@boat.oregon.gov">jennifer.cooper@boat.oregon.gov or by U.S. Mail to Oregon State Marine Board, Attn: Jennifer Cooper, 435 Commercial St NE Ste 400, Salem, OR 97301.

To view the agenda and board materials and for a link to the live stream of the meeting, visit the agency’s Public Meetings page. Meetings are conducted using Microsoft Teams, and viewing may require the installation of a free Teams app for mobile devices.

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OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery presents “Living Remnants,” a solo exhibition of work by Mulino-based artist Jim Spillman. This exhibition runs June 25-July 31 and samples 20 years of Spillman’s studio arts practice. An artist reception will be held on Thursday, June 26, 3-4:30 p.m.

In “Living Remnants” photographs, paintings, mixed-media sculptural assemblages and literary works are showcased utilizing shape, form and text to call attention to the landscape, history of surfaces and human interactions with them.

Spillman was raised in Pennsylvania and moved to Oregon in 1959, where he pursued a career in architecture and became well known for his eco-friendly homes in the Portland area. His sensitivity and concern for the natural landscape and human impact on it continue to be a persistent thread in his exploration of making art.

The Alexander Gallery is located in the Niemeyer Center on the Clackamas Community College Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., and is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., except college holidays.

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

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(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is deeply disappointed by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors. This ruling directly contradicts the overwhelming medical consensus and disregards decades of scientific research supporting this care as safe, effective, and lifesaving.

Gender-affirming care, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, is endorsed by every major medical organization in the United States, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, and the Endocrine Society. These treatments have been shown to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and suicidality in transgender youth. One peer-reviewed study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that access to puberty blockers during adolescence was associated with a 73% lower risk of suicidality in transgender adults.

Further research from The Lancet and Pediatrics confirms that timely access to gender-affirming care improves mental health outcomes and overall well-being for transgender youth, while bans like Tennessee’s lead to measurable harm, including increased psychological distress and suicide risk.

ONA believes that all young people deserve access to medically necessary care, free from political interference. Today’s decision is not based on science, public health, or the well-being of children; it is rooted in ideology, and it places vulnerable youth at serious risk. 

 
ONA will continue to advocate for healthcare grounded in evidence for every patient, in every community.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
 June 18, 2025

CONTACT INFORMATION:
umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 4.8% in May

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.8% in May and 4.7% in April, after rising gradually over the past year from 4.1% in May 2024. Oregon’s 4.8% unemployment rate was 1.2 percentage points higher than the recent low of 3.6% during spring 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in both April and May.

In May, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 1,400 jobs, following a revised gain of 1,000 jobs in April. May’s gains were largest in leisure and hospitality (+1,300 jobs); transportation, warehousing, and utilities (+1,200); and health care and social assistance (+900). Declines were largest in construction (-1,700 jobs); manufacturing (-1,200); and professional and business services (-900).

Leisure and hospitality has grown rapidly this year, adding 1,300 jobs in May and 6,000 jobs so far this year, following slight declines over the prior two years. In the past 12 months, three component industries grew rapidly: amusement, gambling, and recreation (+1,700 jobs, or 8.5%); limited-service restaurants and other eating places (+3,600 jobs, or 4.8%); and accommodation (+1,100 jobs, or 4.5%).

Construction employment dropped by 1,700 jobs in May, to a total of 112,300 jobs, continuing a downward trend. Since reaching a peak of 119,000 jobs in June 2023, construction has shed 6,700 jobs, or -5.6%.

Manufacturing cut 1,200 jobs in May, continuing its decline of the past two years. Since May 2024, manufacturing has lost 6,100 jobs, or -3.3%. In that time, the component industries cutting the most jobs were semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing (-2,900 jobs, or -8.7%); transportation equipment manufacturing (-500 jobs, or -4.5%); and fruit and vegetable preserving and specialty food manufacturing (-400 jobs, or -4.4%).

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the May county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, June 24, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for June on Wednesday, July 16.

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• Door hangers will notify residents of upcoming treatments to City-owned ash trees
• Residents can take steps to protect ash trees on their property

Salem, Ore. – Salem residents may soon see a notice on their doors about the City-owned ash tree(s) adjacent to their homes. The Urban Forestry Division is identifying ash trees that need protection from the emerald ash borer pest, which is harming trees throughout Oregon.
 

The notice informs residents that the City will inject the ash tree adjacent to their home every two years to protect it from the emerald ash borer. The hanger will also indicate whether the tree has been inspected or treated.
 

What is the Emerald Ash Borer?

The emerald ash borer is a harmful beetle that attacks and kills ash trees. Adult beetles lay their eggs on the trees. When the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow under the bark and feed on the tree. This feeding cuts off the tree’s supply of water and nutrients, leading to its death.
 

Marion County and other counties in Oregon have been under a permanent quarantine since the emerald ash borer was detected here in August 2024. Since then, City staff has been working on plans to manage the emerald ash borer for street trees and natural areas.
 

Staff members recently received training on how to apply preventive injections. They will start injecting city trees this summer. The injections use a special insecticide that travels through the tree and kills the insects.

Questions?

The City’s emerald ash borer web page provides more information and guidance on how to best protect your ash trees from infestation. Or contact Salem Urban Forestry Division at banforestry@cityofsalem.net">urbanforestry@cityofsalem.net or 503-588-6332.

# # #

SALEM, Ore. – Governor Tina Kotek has appointed Letha Tawney as Chair of the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), effective immediately. Chair Tawney brings a deep commitment to safety, consumer advocacy, and regulatory integrity to her new leadership role. In addition, the Oregon Senate confirmed Karin Power to serve as Commissioner of the PUC for a four-year term ending May 20, 2029. Power, who was appointed by Gov. Kotek and recommended for Senate confirmation earlier this year, adds valuable legal, legislative, and environmental expertise to the three-member commission.

Chair Tawney was first appointed to the PUC in 2018 and has led the agency’s work on grid modernization, wildfire mitigation, regional electricity markets, and the Energy Trust of Oregon. As Chair, she will continue to guide the Commission’s oversight of Oregon’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, as well as select telecommunications and water utilities, ensuring reliable service and just, reasonable rates for Oregon households and businesses.

“It is an honor to serve as Chair during this critical time for Oregon’s energy future,” said Chair Tawney. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead a talented team as we work to meet the needs of communities across the state.”

Karin Power, a former state legislator and environmental attorney, joins the PUC with a strong track record of public service and policy leadership. During her time in the Oregon House of Representatives, she played a key role in advancing environmental protection, climate action, and public health policy. Most recently, Power served in government, business, and nonprofit leadership roles with a focus on energy affordability, sustainability, and market-based environmental solutions.

“I’m honored to join the Commission and support the essential work of balancing affordability, reliability, and Oregon’s climate goals,” said Commissioner Power. “I look forward to serving Oregonians in a new capacity.”

Fellow Commissioner Les Perkins welcomed the appointments, saying: “Chair Tawney brings years of experience and knowledge to the leadership position at a time when the energy landscape is evolving rapidly, and I look forward to supporting her in this critical role. I’ve enjoyed working with Commissioner Power in her past roles in Oregon and look forward to working together to address the ever-changing challenges and opportunities before us.”

The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.

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POLK COUNTY, Ore. (June 18, 2025) — On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at approximately 6:38 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash in Polk County near Monmouth.

The preliminary investigation indicated a farming swather, operated by Dylan Wyatt Branch (34) of Monmouth, was traveling westbound on Highway 194 near milepost 5 when an eastbound white Toyota 4Runner, operated by Erika Margit Smith (59) of Dallas, struck the swather’s boom. The 4Runner left the roadway and came to rest in the trees on the north shoulder.

The operator of the 4Runner (Smith) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the swather (Branch) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Monmouth Police Department, Polk Fire District 1, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 8:00 a.m. on June 17, 2025, in response to increasing wildfire activity across the state.

Several active wildfires—including the Rowena Fire in Wasco County, the Alder Springs Fire in Jefferson County, and the Ferry Fire in Grant County—have prompted coordinated response efforts to support impacted communities and local emergency management agencies.

“Wildfire season is here, and these fires are a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change,” said Curtis Peetz, ECC Manager. “By activating to Level 3, we are proactively engaged with our tribal, local, state, and federal partners to coordinate resources and information to help protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.”

The ECC is activated between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and is staffed with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication and resource support.

OEM encourages all Oregonians to prepare for wildfires:

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts are activated on their phones.
• Make a wildfire evacuation plan and review evacuation levels.
• Stay informed via trusted sources such as local emergency managers, county sheriff's offices, and public land agencies.
• Check road conditions on TripCheck.com and air quality at Oregon DEQ.

For more information about how OEM supports wildfire preparedness and response, visit wildfire.oregon.gov

Sign up to receive the latest news directly from OEM. To find more preparedness tips, like how to Be2Weeks Ready for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM.

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. 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 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 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 or dial 711.

SEASIDE, OR — Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Director Fariborz Pakseresht, Deputy Director Liesl Wendt, and Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director Nate Singer, toured three sets of emergency preparedness equipment on the North Oregon Coast—Oceanside, Cape Meares and Seaside—to witness firsthand how communities are transforming emergency preparedness into a beacon of hope.
 

This equipment is called a typed package and includes supplies like food, sanitation, generators and radios. Supported by ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management’s (OREM) $10 million Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant, the packages are pivotal in empowering local communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. The grant, established through House Bill 3409 passed by the Oregon Legislature in 2023, allocated funds to develop resilience hubs and networks throughout the state.
 

“Visiting these communities today reinforces the profound impact of local resilience,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Each hub is a testament to the strength and unity of Oregonians, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and solidarity.”
 

The tour included stops in Oceanside, Cape Meares and Seaside. The grant recipients are the Oceanside Protection Society, Cape Meares Community Association and the Seaside School District.
 

“These hubs are more than just physical spaces; they are lifelines,” said Ed Flick, Director of the Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “They embody the spirit of Oregonians coming together to build a future where resilience is a shared responsibility and a collective achievement. We know coastal communities are likely to be cut off from the rest of the state during the Cascadia earthquake. Emergency services will be overwhelmed, and help may not arrive for days. In those critical early hours, neighbors will be the first line of support. These supplies enable communities to act as their own first responders, saving lives and sustaining hope until help arrives.”
 

The Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant program has funded 87 organizations across Oregon, providing essential resources and support to communities, especially those disproportionately impacted by emergencies. The program aims to strengthen communities by creating spaces where people can come together daily to share resources, support one another, and find assistance during emergencies.
 

As Oregon continues to face various challenges, the commitment to building resilient communities remains steadfast. The efforts in Oceanside, Cape Meares and Seaside exemplify the hope and determination that define the state’s approach to emergency preparedness.
 

If passed, House Bill 3170, currently being debated by the Oregon Legislature, would provide $10 million for a second round of grants.
 

For more information on the Resilience Hubs and Networks Grant program, visit ODHS Resilience Hubs and Networks Grants.
 

Photos attached to this release. Downloadable video footage available on Vimeo. Package includes interviews and b-roll of the three sites. Interviews with:

• Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director
• Ed Flick, ODHS OREM Director
• Jerry Keene, Oceanside Protection Society President
• Mary Faith Bell, Tillamook County Commissioner
• Dave Posalski, Seaside City Council President
• Spencer Kyle, Seaside City Manager

Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver City Council unanimously voted on April 7 to become a Bee City USA® affiliate, joining many other cities and campuses across the country united in improving their landscapes for pollinators. City Council’s approval of the affiliation is the result of efforts by the City’s pollinator subcommittee, Vancouver Bee Project and several City teams.

“City Council let it be known that we understand the importance of sustaining pollinators, and want to make our city more pollinator friendly,” said Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle.

To help celebrate Vancouver’s affiliation with Bee City USA, Vancouver Bee Project and its partners and sponsors will hold the 2nd annual Pollinator Festival on June 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Marshall Community Park. The free, family-friendly event will offer vendors, educational walks, world renowned speakers, food retailers, family activities and more. The community is welcome to join the celebration and learn about essential pollinating species.

Bee City USA is an initiative of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon, with offices across the country. Bee City USA’s mission is to encourage communities to protect pollinators by providing them with healthy habitat, rich in a variety of native plants and free of insecticides. Pollinators like bumble bees, sweat bees, mason bees, honey bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, hummingbirds and many others are responsible for the reproduction of almost ninety percent of the world's flowering plant species.

“The program aspires to make people more pollinator conscious,” said Scott Hoffman Black, Xerces’ executive director. “If lots of individuals and communities begin planting native, pesticide-free flowering trees, shrubs and perennials, it will create large-scale change for many, many species of pollinators.”

“How each city completes the steps to conserve pollinators is up to them,” said Bee City USA Coordinator Laura Rost. “To maintain their affiliation, each affiliate is expected to report on their achievements, build pollinator habitat spaces, celebrate being a Bee City USA affiliate and more.”

For more information about Vancouver’s Bee City USA program, visit Vancouver Bee City USA -The City of Vancouver, WA

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SALEM, Ore. – If you look up this month and see a slow-flying plane crisscrossing the skies over Oregon it’s likely just researchers looking for signs of damage in Oregon forests from insect pests and other threats. The Pacific Northwest Aerial Detection Survey of Oregon’s forests has been conducted by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service since the 1940s, except during the 2020 pandemic. It is the longest continuous annual survey of its kind in the United States.

To complete the survey, airborne researchers take off in fixed-wing aircraft with one on each side of the plane. They use laptops to record where trees appear to be in trouble. Survey flights typically fly between 1,500 to 2,500 feet above ground level, following a systematic grid four miles apart and traveling at 90 to 140 miles an hour.

“Oregon has about 30 million acres of forest so flying in a grid pattern over it allows us to find problems even in remote areas hard to reach by vehicle or on foot,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl.

“For several years this survey has identified a trend in increasing tree deaths as a result of drought stress and subsequent opportunistic beetle attack, which finishes off these stressed trees,” said Buhl. “Trees that are most stressed are those that are less drought-tolerant or have spread into fringe habitat and don’t have time to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions. Beetles might be the immediate cause of a tree’s death but the underlying cause is often drought.”

Other causes of trees being injured or killed can also be viewed from the air, such as damage from storms and wildfires.

Last year’s report showed drought, insect pests, and tree diseases continue to be the biggest threats to the state’s trees. That report is available at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/forestbenefits/documents/forest-health-highlights.pdf.

“Best management practices are to plant the right tree species and seed zone in the right place for projected climate and keep stocking density to a level that can be supported during drought,” said Buhl.

Due to persistent dry conditions, she said she expects the 2025 survey to see more of the same trends in higher tree deaths in Oregon’s driest areas, such as in southwest Oregon and east of the Cascades.

Buhl emphasized the importance of on-the-ground collaborators to help round out the full picture of forest health in Oregon. “In addition to information ODF and the USDA Forest Service gather, we rely on Oregon State University Forestry Extension staff from across the state, and collaborate with other natural resource agencies, universities, public and private forest landowners, and members of the public to gather information on the ground,” she said.

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Nothing says summer like a sunny afternoon and a scenic train ride! Treat yourself to a 45-minute journey with scenic views along the Willamette River. Whether you're with family, friends, or just looking for a relaxing escape, this is the perfect way to enjoy the season.

The best part? These are the lowest ticket prices of the year! Don't miss out on these unbeatable deals for an unforgettable summer experience. Get your tickets here.

Event Details

Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center (2250 SE Water Ave. Portland OR 97214)

When: Every Saturday until mid October 2025

Departure times: 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, & 4:00 pm

Tickets: $17 for adults, $12 for children ages 3-12, infants 2 and under ride free on lap, $15 for seniors and miliary, $50 for a family pass

Paul Richie, the Facilities and Operations Supervisor for Kelso School District, has been named the 2025 Regional Classified School Employee of the Year by ESD 112. This honor recognizes his transformative leadership, unwavering dedication, and behind-the-scenes efforts that have shaped the learning environment for thousands of students and staff.

“Paul exemplifies the spirit of this award—his dedication to the district is evident through the work he does,” said Effie Triol, Regional Literacy Coordinator at ESD 112. “Through his leadership, Paul and his team have completed many projects that support both students and adults throughout the Kelso community.”

With over 16 years of service with the Kelso School District, Richie has become the cornerstone of safe, efficient, and inspiring school facilities. His leadership was crucial in executing more than $180 million in bond-funded capital projects that resulted in new school buildings, comprehensive remodels, and essential upgrades throughout the district.

“Paul is the heartbeat of Kelso School District,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. “His vision for safety, his commitment to excellence, and his unwavering focus on student success have fundamentally elevated every school in our district.”

Richie’s contributions extend beyond bricks and mortar. He leads a team of 55 maintenance and custodial professionals, overseeing more than 3,500 maintenance requests each year with precision and urgency. His efforts ensure that students and staff are welcomed daily into well-maintained, secure, and functional learning environments.

One of his most meaningful projects was the remodel of Rose Valley Elementary, the longest continuously occupied school site in Cowlitz County. Richie played a central role in preserving the historic charm of the building while modernizing every aspect of its infrastructure. His work included partnering with families to replace playground equipment, revive the school bell tradition, and enhance security with a new vestibule and surveillance systems.

“This wasn’t just a construction project; it was about restoring pride, honoring tradition, and reinforcing our district’s culture of excellence and respect for tradition,” Richie said.

Richie’s passion for youth goes well beyond district facilities. As a long-time youth sports coach and former director of the Hilander Hoop Club, he has instilled life skills and confidence in young athletes, earning the deep respect of families throughout the Kelso community.

“Paul taught my daughter and her teammates more than just the game, he taught them leadership, responsibility, and resilience,” said Jaime Amrine, a Kelso parent. “He treats every player like family.”

As a regional awardee, Richie will be considered for the Washington State Classified School Employee of the Year award, presented by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). He and the other honorees will participate in a yearlong leadership program and be recognized at upcoming state events.

For Richie, the recognition is shared.

“I’m honored to receive this award, but I share it with the incredible team I work with every day,” Richie stated.

To learn more about the Classified School Employee of the Year program, visit OSPI’s website.

ESD 112 is excited to announce that John Zingale, a history and social studies teacher at Vancouver iTech Preparatory, has been named the 2026 Regional Teacher of the Year. Zingale’s dynamic approach to education, which combines civic engagement, hands-on learning, and real-world impact, has made him a transformative figure in the lives of students and the broader educational community.

“John Zingale is more than an educator—he’s a builder of informed, empowered citizens,” said Darby Meade, Principal of Vancouver iTech. “His innovative use of technology and emphasis on civic responsibility push students to not only understand history but to use it as a tool to shape their futures.”

Zingale’s classroom is a hub of exploration and engagement, where students don’t just learn history; they live it. Through projects like National History Day, his students have earned national recognition, including being named Washington State Teen Historians of the Year. Zingale’s commitment is so personal that he even commemorated his students' national-level victories with a tattoo.

“My classroom is not just a place for memorizing dates and names,” said Zingale. “It’s where students become historians, advocates, and innovators. Being named Regional Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor and a testament to the remarkable students and community I have the privilege of working with every day.”

“John Zingale exemplifies the spirit of the Teacher of the Year program,” said Effie Triol, Regional Literacy Coordinator at ESD 112. “His innovative approach to history education and deep commitment to civic engagement empower students to see themselves as changemakers. We are honored to recognize an educator who not only teaches content but inspires purpose.”

From designing immersive, project-based learning experiences to organizing school-wide exhibitions, such as the 500-guest “Night at the Museum” showcase, Zingale’s efforts connect school learning with families and the wider community. His innovative Fort Vancouver Virtual Reality (FVvr) project, initiated in response to public access limitations at the historic site, has enabled global access to digital exhibits and continues to evolve as Fort Vancouver celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Zingale also champions student voice through advocacy projects like “The Write Stuff,” which empowers students to engage legislators on social justice issues. His commitment to active citizenship has shaped countless students, including those who, inspired by his example, have pursued careers in education and public service.

“He didn’t just teach us history, he taught us how to be responsible and engaged citizens,” wrote former student Kaitlin Medina. “Whether we were writing to lawmakers, building museum exhibits, or analyzing primary sources, he made sure we understood our power to impact the world.”

As the Regional Teacher of the Year, Zingale will participate in statewide leadership opportunities and professional development through OSPI. He will be honored with a commemorative plaque at an upcoming ESD 112 board meeting and will advance to the statewide selection for Washington State Teacher of the Year, to be announced later this year. Visit OSPI’s website for more information.

At 8:50pm Firefighters quickly responded to and contained a small vegetation fire Tuesday evening near the old mill site, in the 800 block of Milton Street. The incident, initially reported as a small fire, was quickly upgraded to a first alarm after multiple callers reported heavy smoke visible from Oak Street.

Battalion Chief 31 and Brush 31 were first on scene, gaining access through a locked gate off Milton Street. Upon arrival, crews found approximately 1 to 2 acres burning with moderate fire behavior and no immediate threat to nearby structures or exposures.

Due to the rough terrain and limited access within the area, crews were unable to conduct a direct mobile attack. Instead, firefighters implemented a containment strategy using the existing wide roadways surrounding the fire. Favorable weather conditions allowed the fire to be safely boxed in on all four sides. Firefighters implemented a strategic backburn operation to further assist with containing the fire. 

After the fire's forward progress was stopped, crews established a secure wetline around the entire perimeter and worked to cool internal hotspots using hand tools and backpack sprayers. No structures were threatened, and no injuries were reported.  The fire burned close to 6 acres. Crews were on scene for 2.5 hours and Albany Fire provided an ambulance and fire engine to cover the district. 

Some smoldering and light smoke may continue in the area. The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind everyone that burn season is over and to be extra cautious to protect our community from wildfire danger. 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The June Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Work Meeting will be held Wednesday June 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting remotely or in person, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on June 18, 2025.

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

About TVWD 

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 17, 2025

Jessica Roberts
Executive Director, Communications
Vancouver Public Schools
oberts@vansd.org" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Jessica.roberts@vansd.org

Hudson’s Bay High School Track to Close June 18 for Resurfacing

Vancouver, Wash. — The Hudson’s Bay High School track will be closed starting June 18, 2025, for resurfacing. The closure is expected to last until the week of August 4, 2025. The track will be unavailable for use during the renovation.

Resurfacing the track is necessary to maintain the safety, performance, and longevity of the facility. 

During this time, the track will be closed to all public use. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we complete this important work.

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SALEM, Ore. — June 17, 2025 — Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell testified yesterday before the Oregon State Legislature’s Joint Committee On Addiction and Community Safety Response, expressing frustration with House Bill 2005 and asking for a renewed focus on House Bill 2467 as the more effective path to support vulnerable individuals in the community.

Commissioner Bethell emphasized the urgent need for real solutions in mental health care, saying that current legislative efforts are failing to adequately address this ongoing crisis.

“House Bill 2005 puts two systems of work together and harms one or both,” said Commissioner Bethell. “The counties are not being heard at all in the aid and assist space.

“As a County Commissioner, I am responsible for vulnerable individuals in my community, and I take that work very seriously.”

Commissioner Bethell spoke of the recent stabbing at the Union Gospel Mission, where a man who was presumably experiencing a crisis violently attacked 12 people at the shelter.

“That same gentleman has over 100 pages of interactions with the City of Bend Police Department,” said Bethell. “He had already been at the state hospital for attempted murder in the past.

“Why he had to attempt murder in order to get help is beyond me. The fact that we're trying to smash these two things together to get to an outcome because we have a federal court order over our heads seems asinine to me at best, especially when our community has done such great work on House Bill 2467.”

According to Commissioner Bethell, House Bill 2005 attempts to combine two distinct systems of work, ultimately hindering progress and failing to incorporate crucial input from county leadership. She urged with the Legislature to take a step back and not rush the bill through.

“There is still work to be done,” said Bethell. “And I would like to be at the table to help you get there because we can do it together."

Watch the Full Testimony: https://youtu.be/iVrCOgoxrjM.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator
sam.tenney@dpsst.oregon.gov
503-931-4069

Fallen Oregon firefighters honored during annual remembrance ceremony in Salem

SALEM, Ore. — A ceremony held Tuesday, June 17 commemorated Oregon fire service who have died in the line of duty. The Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Ceremony honored the brave individuals who gave their lives to protect communities and natural resources around the state.

The annual event is held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, site of the Oregon Fire Fighters Memorial. The memorial commemorates 182 fire service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice since 1881, including career, volunteer, wildland and structural fire fighters. 

Tuesday’s ceremony remembered three fallen fire service members whose names were recently added to the memorial: Benjamin Sapper of the U.S. Forest Service, Nicholas Berg of Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District, and Larry Dean of Salem Fire Department.

In his keynote address, Chief Benjamin Stange of Polk County Fire District #1 spoke of the enduring legacies of the firefighters whose names are engraved on the wall, ensuring their survivors that they will never be forgotten, and their memories will be synonymous with service and sacrifice.

“Their names will be used to send greater messages, to communicate commitment, to set expectations, and to inspire,” he said. “I promise you this: their service, their impact, their inspiration to the fire service will continue.”

Firefighter Benjamin Charles Sapper was killed in an on-duty vehicle accident near Powers on Aug. 4, 2023. Firefighter Sapper was a first-year firefighter working on the Gold Beach Ranger District hand crew for the Forest Service. Originally from Boulder, Colorado, 21-year-old Firefighter Sapper had recently obtained his bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and was looking forward to starting graduate school at the University of British Columbia.

Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District Division Chief Nicholas “Nick” Berg passed away in his home on June 6, 2024 after assisting in setting up a draft site on his private farm for a drill night training session the night before. Division Chief Berg was a loyal Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD volunteer for 47 years and leaves behind his wife, Ann, four children, four grandchildren, as well as his sister and many nieces and nephews.

Retired Salem Fire Department Captain Larry Dean died on Sept. 13, 2024, after battling occupational esophageal cancer. Captain Dean served with the Salem Fire Department from 1987 to 2018, during which time he worked on several specialty teams and held various leadership roles. He is survived by his wife, Kaare, his three children, two grandchildren, mother, sister, and two brothers.

The ceremony was attended by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and public safety professionals from throughout the state. Governor Kotek spoke in tribute to the fallen, heralding their service and sacrifice and acknowledging the grief felt by those they left behind.

“Let us hold their surviving family members, friends, and colleagues in our hearts and thoughts and prayers,” she said. “We should share their stories every opportunity that we have, because to do so allows their spirits and stories to live on and serve as inspiration to all of us.”

The ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) hosts annually in partnership with the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard. For more information on the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial, including the names of the fallen, history of the memorial, and the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard’s involvement, please visit DPSST’s Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial website at https://www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Memorials/Firefighters/Pages/default.aspx.

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About DPSST
 

The mission of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is to pursue excellence in training and accountability for public safety professionals.

DPSST certifies and licenses police, corrections, and parole and probation officers, as well as regulatory specialists, emergency telecommunicators and medical dispatchers, criminal justice instructors, private security providers, private investigators, fire service professionals, and polygraph examiners in the state of Oregon.  DPSST works with public and private safety agencies around the state to provide basic, leadership and specialized training at the 237-acre Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem and regionally throughout the state.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon defendant made a first appearance in federal court today after being charged with failing to obey a lawful order Monday near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Eli Victor McKenzie, 21, has been charged by information with a misdemeanor offense.

McKenzie made a first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Misdemeanor failure to obey a lawful order is a Class C misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 30 days in custody.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and the FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

Vancouver, Wash. – At Monday’s regular Council Meeting, the City Council accepted two grants totaling $2.7 million to strengthen the City’s response to unsheltered homelessness. These new resources will bolster the City’s efforts tied to the declared homelessness emergency, including enhanced outreach for HART and support for capital costs related to the planned Bridge Shelter’s kitchen.

Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, Community Foundation of Southwest Washington

Last year, the City was awarded a $1,912,000 grant from the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund through the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington to fully fund up to eight additional limited-term members of the City’s Homeless Assistance and Resources Team (HART).

“This temporary grant-funded expansion of HART will enable the City to build on our progress on this community priority,” said Homeless Response Manager Jamie Spinelli. “We are grateful for the support of the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund that will enable us to continue to address this complex, humanitarian issue.”

In addition to addressing the immediate crisis, the additional staff will also help facilitate referrals into the future Bridge Shelter when it opens.

HART is a multi-disciplinary City team that addresses the impacts of unsheltered homelessness by providing compassionate outreach and assistance to those living unsheltered and serving as a single point of contact for community members with concerns related to unsheltered homelessness.

PeaceHealth Community Health Improvement Plan Grant

PeaceHealth awarded a $800,000 Community Health Improvement Plan grant to support the capital costs of building a commercial kitchen for the future Bridge Shelter. Once built, the commercial-grade on-site kitchen will enable the City and its service provider to provide fresh, nutritious meals for shelter residents.

“Thanks to this grant, we will be able to build a commercial-grade production kitchen that delivers more than just meals—it brings opportunity and consistency,” said City Manager Lon Pluckhahn. “Once built, it will help us serve high-quality food efficiently, meet dietary needs, and open doors to job training and connection. We are grateful to PeaceHealth for their partnership and support of one of the most important issues facing the community.”

“At PeaceHealth we seek out opportunities to support programs addressing the Social Drivers of Health (SDOH), specifically addressing the critical need for access to housing, food, community connection, and mental health resources,” said Liz Cattin, Community Health Director, PeaceHealth Columbia Network. “We are proud to support the bridge shelter knowing it will address these critical needs for members of our unhoused community.“

The Bridge Shelter is being designed to provide a low-barrier, trauma-informed, 24/7 shelter with integrated wraparound services such as mental health care, substance use treatment, peer support, and pathways to safe, stable, and sustainable housing. Accepting this grant will help the City address the homelessness emergency while also helping PeaceHealth achieve its community health goals.

The City declared an emergency related to homelessness in 2023 to accelerate the City’s work to address the crisis and the impacts on both the unhoused and housed.

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Media Invitation - Video & Interview Opportunity 

Event:  2025 Portland Metro Fire Camp 
Date:  Saturday, June 21, 2025 
Time:  9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 
Location:  TVF&R Training Center, 12400 SW Tonquin Road, Sherwood, 97140 
RSVP To:  Corrine Haning, Public Information Officer, rine.Haning@tvfr.com" target="_blank">Corrine.Haning@tvfr.com  
 
Please join us Saturday, June 21, anytime between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to see professional female firefighters coaching young women on what it takes to be in the fire service.  This is the seventh year that Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue has hosted a camp at their Training Center in Sherwood, Oregon, with several of the Metro Fire Camp’s trailblazers helping run the camp this weekend.

Interview opportunities with one of the professional firefighters will be at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.  

In partnership with Portland Fire & Rescue, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue will be hosting the Metro Fire Camp starting Friday, June 20, through Sunday, June 22. The camp is organized and led entirely by professional female firefighters from multiple agencies across the West Coast. The camp’s mission is to recruit and support women in considering a rewarding fire service career. There will be 50 young women between the ages of 16 to 22 participating this year. 

The free camp is designed to instill confidence and build teamwork skills in those who identify as female through hands-on firefighter training. The camp itinerary consists of various stations and scenarios each day such as taking hydrants, hose practices, controlling nozzles, standpipe evolutions, rope operations, ladders, search and rescue, vehicle extrication, forcible entry, emergency medical skills, nutrition, physical fitness, confidence course and interview techniques.  

For questions day of please call 503-259-1111 or email pio@tvfr.com. Please park in the lot directly to the left of the entrance gate.  

Photos from the 2024 Metro Fire Camp available for media use. 

Salem – Oregon’s workers’ compensation rates remain among the lowest in the nation, according to an analysis released today by the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). This reflects the state’s ongoing success in making workplaces safer and keeping costs under control.

The biennial study ranks all 50 states and Washington, D.C., based on premium rates that were in effect Jan. 1, 2024.

Oregon had the 14th least expensive rates in 2024. Oregon fell in the rankings by four spots from the 2022 study, despite having a lower premium index rate, because rates in other states dropped further. Oregon’s index rate is 89 cents per $100 of payroll, down from 93 cents from 2022 and its lowest rate in the history of the study.

Oregon workers’ compensation rates have declined another 3.2 percent since the 2024 effective date used in the study. Workers’ compensation pays injured workers for lost wages and medical care for job-related injuries.

“What makes Oregon’s workers’ compensation system truly effective is that our low premium rates are not achieved by cutting corners on worker benefits,” said Matt West, Workers’ Compensation Division administrator. “We have shown that it’s possible to maintain strong protections for workers while keeping rates affordable for employers.”

In recent years, rates have dropped all over the country, which has led to a compression of the scores in the survey. The premium index rates are bunched up at the low end, so that small changes in the index rates can lead to big jumps in the ranking.

The study shows Hawaii had the most expensive rates, followed by New Jersey, New York, and California. Meanwhile, North Dakota had the least expensive rates. In the Northwest, Washington’s rates were the 12th most expensive and Idaho was the 25th most expensive.

Oregon researchers also compared each state’s rates to the national median (the 26th ranked state) rate of $1.09 per $100 of payroll. Oregon’s rate of 89 cents is 82 percent of the median.

To produce a valid comparison of states, which have various mixes of industries, the study calculates rates for each state using the same mix of the 50 industries with the highest workers’ compensation claims costs in Oregon.

Oregon has conducted these studies in even-numbered years since 1986, when Oregon’s rates were among the highest in the nation. The department reports the results to the Oregon Legislature as a performance measure. Oregon’s relatively low rate today underscores the success of the state’s workers’ compensation system reforms and its improvements in workplace safety and health.

Oregon has long taken a comprehensive approach to making workplaces safer, keeping business costs low, and providing strong worker benefits. This approach includes enforcing requirements that employers carry insurance for their workers, keeping medical costs under control, and helping injured workers return to work sooner and minimize the impact on their wages.

It also includes efforts to prevent on-the-job injuries by enforcing workplace safety and health rules, and advising employers about how to improve worker safety and health.

The study can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/DCBSPubs/reports/general/prem-rpt/24-2083.pdf.

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About Oregon DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. The department administers state laws and rules to protect consumers and workers in the areas of workers’ compensation, occupational safety and health, financial services, insurance, and building codes. Visit dcbs.oregon.gov.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputy involved in the shooting of a suspect on Friday, June 13, 2025, in Gresham, is Deputy Adam Suboh. Deputy Suboh is a 6-year veteran police officer who joined MCSO in December 2024. Deputy Suboh remains on critical incident leave, which is standard protocol. The Gresham Police Department (GPD) is investigating the incident and is supported by the East County Major Crimes Team.

GPD Press Release Originally Published June 14, 2025:

ARMED SUSPECT SHOT AND KILLED IN GRESHAM. (PHOTO)

News Release from Gresham Police Dept

Posted on FlashAlert: June 14th, 2025 3:09 AM

Downloadable file: Handgun.jpg

Downloadable file: 25-24140 - Deputy Involved Shooting.pdf

Gresham, Ore.— On June 13th at about 7:30pm, Gresham police officers, assisted by deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, responded to a report of a physical disturbance on NE 162nd Ave near NE Glisan St.  Witnesses reported one of the people involved in the disturbance was armed.  Officers developed probable cause to arrest the armed suspect for assault and other crimes.  When they attempted to contact him, he fled on foot.

During the ensuing search, a sheriff’s deputy located the suspect in a nearby neighborhood, and an officer-involved shooting occurred.  During the incident, a Gresham police officer also deployed a 40mm less-lethal projectile.  Officers provided emergency medical care for the suspect until an ambulance arrived.  A handgun was recovered near where the suspect fell. The suspect was pronounced deceased after being taken to a local hospital.

The deceased is not being identified at this time.  The involved deputy has been placed on critical incident leave, which is standard practice in officer-involved shootings and other critical incidents.  Because of the ongoing investigation, no further information can be released at this time.

The East County Major Crimes Team, a multi-agency team comprised of detectives from the Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Port of Portland Police Department, is investigating the incident.  When the investigation is complete, it will be reviewed by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact Detective Martin Daly at Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Dylan Lerch at Dylan.Lerch@mcso.us.

SALEM, Ore. – Earlier this year a spruce aphid outbreak was detected around Yachats on the central Oregon coast. ODF will be assessing the spread of this damage to determine where else it might be occurring along the coast.

Spruce aphid is a long-established exotic and invasive insect that experiences periodic outbreaks that injure Sitka spruce along the West Coast, including Oregon. Spruce aphid (Elatobium abietinum) sucks moisture and nutrients from older needles on Sitka spruce trees, causing them to turn yellow, red, and then drop. The aphids don’t feed on new needles. This insect actively feeds in February and March. By early summer when   needle drop begins to be seen it is too late to do anything about outbreaks, as populations of this insect have already declined. 

Although trees are injured, they don’t often die from this damage because this insect is only periodic, does not feed on current year needles, and does not kill buds. However, trees that have other underlying stress issues will be more heavily impacted. Sitka spruce is often stressed by flooding and brackish water if growing too close to the coastline, therefore those trees might be more at risk from the additional impact of spruce aphid.

“We don’t typically see back-to-back outbreaks in the same areas, but because outbreaks often occur after a particularly warmer than usual winter or when we don’t get a late cold snap - and these are becoming more common with climate change - it is possible that we will eventually see more outbreaks one after the other,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl.

Able to tolerate salt spray, Sitka spruce grows in moist coastal forests seldom more than a few miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Typically growing between 125 and 180 feet tall, they are long-lived trees capable of living several centuries. Many of the largest old-growth Sitka spruce were cut down to build airplanes in the early 20^th Century or to make violins, guitars, and pianos.

More info: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/documents/forestbenefits/Spruce_aphid_2017.pdf

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SALEM, Oregon— SALEM, Oregon— This weekend kicks off the official summer camping season, but the work to prepare Oregon’s more than 250 state parks and campgrounds has been going all year long.

Behind the scenes, park rangers have moved mountains of sand, cleared thousands of downed trees and repaired roofs, bridges and trails around the state to keep

parks well maintained and ready for visitors.

Visitors might think that parks stay pristine because they look just like they did last year, but maintaining beautiful landscapes in some of Oregon’s harshest climates takes some work:

• Cape Lookout State Park cleared more than 1.5 million pounds of sand after winter winds buried one camp loop in six-inch drifts. The park is not alone. Many coastal parks must dig out campsites, sidewalks and parking lots after the winter season.
   
• Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area removed a dump truck load of slime, algae, branches, leaves and trash, which coated the campground when lake water receded. The lake floods every year, and rangers clean up the muck left behind.
   
• In the Mountain Region and other areas where it freezes, rangers reinstall plumbing components and restart the plumbing to the campgrounds, buildings and picnic shelters, which includes restarting water to thousands of campsite spigots.
   
• At Fall Creek State Recreation Area east of Eugene, rangers cleared eight dump truck loads of fir needles, cones, branches and debris to make the roads passable at Winberry Park when it reopened this spring.
   
• Nehalem Bay State Park cleared nearly 180 downed trees in one winter storm alone. Parks across the state repaired winter storm damage, including clearing downed trees, repairing roads, fixing roofs and mending bridges. 
   
• In the Columbia River Gorge, parks cleared thousands of pounds of woody debris from paved trails. They created chips from the debris and spread it around trees and shrubs.

Overall, Oregon State Parks rangers spend nearly 800,000 hours a year cleaning bathrooms, building and repairing trails and bridges, fixing old and new pipes and wiring, keeping parks safe, preserving Oregon’s history and natural resources and sharing knowledge on everything from mushrooms to the night sky.

“Rangers work tirelessly to keep these landscapes beautiful and accessible for the approximately 56 million visits each year at Oregon State Parks. We’re thankful for the work they do every day,” said Oregon Governor Tina Kotek.

Oregon State Parks welcome as many as 17,000 guests on the busiest nights, which means moving a city roughly the size of Canby in and out of campgrounds on almost a daily basis statewide.

“Oregon State Parks are like small cities. They run sewer, water and electrical systems; maintain roads and structures, all while managing campgrounds. When one system goes down, our staff manage the necessary emergency repairs to keep parks open. I’m proud of the work they do to keep parks safe, welcoming and ready for everyone to enjoy,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Director Lisa Sumption.

Help rangers this season by following all safety signs and barriers; staying on trail and checking campfire restrictions in advance at stateparks.oregon.gov. Interested in what rangers do? Check out the Oregon State Parks episode of “Odd Jobs” by SAIF Corporation at https://youtu.be/NUqCmEe38Uw?feature=shared or the Join Us page on the website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=get-involved.jobs

Celebrate the 4th of July at Oaks Amusement Park's annual 4th of July Spectacular, presented by Coca-Cola.  Enjoy rides all day, then settle in for the annual fireworks display when the sun goes down.  Pack a picnic to enjoy in the lush and beautiful picnic grounds along the banks of the Willamette River!

• Friday, July 4, 2025
• Gates Open: 11 AM
• Rides Operate: Noon-Midnight
• Fireworks: Approximately 10 PM
• All picnic areas are first-come, first-served
• Admission: $38.50 per person ages three and older; guests two and under are free
• Parking: $4 per vehicle

The admission price includes unlimited rides. Ticket quantities are limited and typically sell out.  Tickets must be purchased online in advance; there are no tickets available onsite on the day of the event. 

For this special event, everyone ages three and older must have an admission ticket to enter the park, including those who opt not to ride the rides.

Outside alcohol and fireworks are prohibited.

The Roller Rink is closed on July 4, 2025.

Visit oakspark.com for tickets and full info.

Nearly half of businesses expect the economy to improve in the next 12 months, including 60% of middle market companies and 44% of small businesses—a four-year high

• Small Business: 12-month outlook jumps 14 points; key growth indicators rebound from 2024
• Middle Market: Strong optimism persists as 69% prioritize growth over cost-cutting
• Tariff Impact: 5 in 10 plan to stockpile inventory, absorb cost increases
• Generative AI: Adoption leading to increased staffing levels
• Cybersecurity: 3 in 10 feel very well prepared to prevent attacks

TACOMA, Wash., (June 17, 2025) – Umpqua Bank today released the findings of its seventh annual Business Barometer, a nationwide study into the mindset and priorities of small and middle market businesses. Despite a mixed outlook over the economic headwinds, including the potential impact of global tariffs, businesses across the U.S. report measured optimism about the direction of the economy and their 12-month prospects for growth compared to a year ago.

Umpqua Bank’s 2025 Business Barometer survey polled nearly 1,300 small businesses ($500K-$10M) and middle market companies ($10M-$500M) across the U.S. about their economic outlook, business prospects, investment opportunities and adaptions to a range of issues including AI, cybersecurity and tariffs.

While inflation persists as a top concern for 60%, and 51% expect negative impacts from tariffs, overall optimism about the current economy remains strong for middle market companies (62%) and is up slightly for small businesses (32%). The 12-month outlook also spiked to near or at four-year highs for both sectors. Nearly 5 in 10 of all businesses surveyed anticipate improved conditions, and a record number of middle market (66%) and small businesses (36%) will likely seek financing for growth in the year ahead.

“This year’s survey reminds us once again why small and middle market businesses are the backbone of our economy. Their grit and determination are sturdy enough to withstand current economic and global trade uncertainty,” said Umpqua Bank President Tory Nixon. “After optimizing their businesses through a pandemic and the ensuing challenges of the past few years, decision-makers remain clear-eyed about potential headwinds and clear-headed about what’s needed to move forward.”

2025 Business Barometer Highlights:

• Nearly half of all businesses expect the economy to improve in the next 12 months, including 60% of middle market companies and 44% of small businesses—a four-year high.
• Inflation (60%), recession (42%) and tariffs (41%), rank as the top three concerns.
• 5 in 10 expect revenue and demand for products and services to increase.
• 69% of middle market companies and 34% of small businesses are prioritizing growth over cost-cutting.
• Roughly half, including 72% of middle market companies and 41% of small businesses, are likely to stockpile inventory over the next 12 months in response to potential tariffs.
• 52% of middle market companies say reshoring manufacturing operations would take at least three or more years; 1 in 5 small businesses say it’s not feasible to do so.
• 85% of middle market and 50% of small businesses plan to invest in or adopt additional generative AI capabilities in the year ahead.
• 25% of middle market companies and 16% of small businesses were impacted by cybersecurity attacks in the past year.

Still Cautious, More Small Businesses Plan for Growth

Small businesses are more likely to cut costs this year than make investments (55% vs. 32%), and 82% plan to conserve cash. However, compared to a year ago, they are significantly less likely to prioritize managing financial concerns (27% vs 45% in 2024) and more likely to focus on growth opportunities (28% vs. 18% in 2024). Their improved mindset bears out across key growth indicators as they are more likely this year than last to finance expansion (+11 points), invest in digitization (+8) and financial safeguards (+7), add real estate (+7) and either merge (+9) or acquire (+4) another business.

Still Optimistic, Middle Market Balances Growth and Fiscal Management Priorities

Down slightly from last year, overall optimism remains near an all-time high for middle market companies, and most expect increases in product demand (65%), revenue (62%) and profitability (56%). Nearly 7 in 10 will prioritize investments over cost-cutting, though 82% also plan to conserve cash. More this year are also focused on managing financial challenges (+4 points) primarily due to increased concern over tariffs and other external factors.

Tariff Response: Measured Steps Not Drastic Changes

Businesses of all sizes believe any tariff impacts are more likely to be negative than positive, and 41% rank tariffs as a top three concern. In response, those with operations, sales or supply chains directly impacted have already taken measured steps to manage potential impacts: 54% have plans in place for managing price fluctuations, 50% have strengthened relationships with existing customers, 46% have looked for new domestic suppliers and 34% have moved up the timeline for planned sales. Moving forward, 53% are preparing to gradually increase prices, with 47% intending to absorb as much of the increased costs as possible. Nearly half, including 72% of middle market companies, are also likely to stockpile inventory in the near term.

While many enterprises with international operations are adjusting manufacturing or supply chains, more than 7 in 10 still plan to maintain or increase their current levels of foreign trade activity and exposure.

Generative AI Adoption Continues, Positively Impacts Employment Levels

For the second straight year, AI is the top investment priority for the middle market. More than 8 in 10 middle market and half of small businesses plan to invest in new generative AI tools over the next 12 months. Both segments feel confident in their pace of AI adoption compared to peers: Roughly 7 in 10 small businesses and nearly 9 in 10 middle market companies report keeping up with or surpassing competitors. Only 5% of all businesses surveyed say adoption is leading to decreased staffing levels. By contrast, 57% of middle market and 22% of small businesses say adopting AI actually is leading to increased staffing levels.

Businesses Move to Prevent Cybersecurity Attacks; 3 in 10 “Very Well Prepared”

In the last 12 months, most businesses have prioritized cybersecurity and anti-fraud enhancements, a trend most pronounced among middle market companies. Safeguards for all businesses surveyed include employee trainings (67%), using bank fraud prevention solutions (61%), tightening internal controls (60%) and conducting regular audits to identify vulnerabilities (53%). While 82% feel at least moderately well prepared to prevent an attack, just 3 in 10 feel very well prepared.

Survey Methodology

The Umpqua Bank 2025 Business Barometer, conducted annually, surveyed 1,290 owners, executives and financial decision-makers from U.S. small and middle market companies. The online survey was conducted in partnership with DHM Research, a public policy and business research firm, and targeted leaders at companies with $500,000 to $500 million in annual revenue. The survey, which did not filter for Umpqua Bank customers, has a 2.7% margin of error and was fielded from April 21 to May 2, 2025.

About Umpqua Bank

Umpqua Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB), is an award-winning regional financial institution supporting businesses of all sizes and consumers across eight western states. With more than $50 billion in assets, Umpqua is the largest Northwest-based and third largest publicly traded bank on the West Coast. Through a network of nearly 300 branches and a full suite of commercial and retail capabilities, Umpqua is taking its celebrated brand of relationship banking across the West into some of the most dynamic and economically vibrant markets in the country. For its commitment to exceptional customer service and thriving communities, Umpqua has been named one of “Oregon’s Most Admired Companies” for 20 straight years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: June 17, 2025

Detectives search for suspect in two sexual assaults

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police Special Victims Unit detectives are looking for a suspect wanted in two sexual assaults that occurred in the last two days in southeast Salem.

The first incident occurred on Sunday, June 15, at about 4:30 p.m. in the area of Commercial ST and Barnes AV SE. A woman reported walking in the area when the suspect approached, and he assaulted her. The victim was able to escape, and the suspect fled.

A general description of the suspect is as follows: a Black male adult with dark hair, a thin to medium build, between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall, and approximately 20 to 30 years of age.

Detectives believe the same suspect was involved in another assault in the same area the next day, June 16. On Monday, shortly after 4:00 a.m., a teenager was walking and approached and assaulted by a similarly-described man. A passerby intervened and confronted the suspect, who then ran away.

In each incident, an immediate and extensive search for the suspect was conducted, but he was not located.

Detectives are following up on all available leads. Anyone with information about the cases is asked to call the Salem Police tip line at 503-588-8477.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Parks and Nature division of Clark County Public Works is leading the formation of a group to identify models for sustainable parks funding. The group will be composed of representatives from local governments, nonprofit organizations, youth sports organizations, land conservation organizations, interest groups and community leaders. They will explore, identify, and recommend sustainable funding strategies for the region to preserve, maintain, and enhance public parks and natural areas. This effort will include evaluating potential funding options and providing a report and recommendations to elected officials, including county and city councils.

Clark County Parks and Nature initiated this effort after recognizing that local park systems face increasing budgetary challenges. The county alone is responsible for 7,166 acres across 111 parks and sites. The national median cost per capita for operating expenses for park systems of similar size is $57.61, according to the National Recreation and Park Association. Clark County Parks and Nature receives $15.62 per capita, which is substantially less than operational costs. Clark County receives $1,136 per acre for park operating expenses. The national median is $4,421 per acre for similarly sized park systems.

Rising costs, an increasing population, and stagnant revenues have created an unsustainable financial situation for the operation and maintenance of Clark County's parks, as well as for many other local jurisdictions. While Clark County actively works with the community to identify ways to ensure a financially sustainable future for parks, irrigation will be reduced to lower costs and conserve water. Starting July 5, irrigation of natural turf areas in Clark County-owned and operated parks will stop. Irrigation will continue at sports fields used for league play, and water will remain on at restrooms, water fountains, picnic shelters, and the splash pad at Klineline Pond. This will reduce water usage by 40% and save between $175,000 and $200,000.

As the region’s summers become increasingly hot and dry, Clark County's population grows, and water utility rates increase, conserving water is becoming more critical than ever. Conserving water, a renewable but limited resource, and staying within budget are essential ways Parks and Nature is stewarding public resources responsibly. 

More information is available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/parks.

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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Portland, Ore., June 17, 2025 – Summer is here, and with it comes more opportunities to enjoy the PNW’s beaches, parks, and rivers. However, the increased outdoor activity also leads to more litter and strain on the environment. To combat this, SOLVE is launching its Summer with SOLVE campaign, designed to take action, connect communities, and celebrate the beauty of our region through environmental action.

“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it's also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment. By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”

SOLVE kicked off summer with Pick It Up, Portland!, a citywide celebration on World Environment Day, June 5. The event focused on four different locations across Portland: Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade. This was the first of many volunteer opportunities offered by SOLVE this summer, with more projects planned throughout the season, including the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series, protecting the health of local rivers, streams and creeks.

What You’ll See This Summer

As outdoor recreation increases, SOLVE volunteers will:

• Remove litter from parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks
• Maintain recreation sites and public green spaces
• Mulch around native trees and shrubs
• Remove invasive plant species that thrive in summer months like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom

Key Summer Events:

• Afterglow: Post-4th Cleanups (July 5-6): Volunteers will tackle the debris left behind from holiday celebrations to help restore outdoor spaces and shorelines.
• Willamette River Cleanup (August 9): A focused cleanup of the Willamette River, combating litter both on the water and along the riverbanks.
• Waterway Cleanup Series (ongoing through September): A series of cleanup efforts dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rivers and streams during the peak outdoor season.
• Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Community cleanups in Portland's business districts, focusing on revitalizing key areas in the city.

Looking ahead, SOLVE is also preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20-28, part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day and National Public Lands Day initiatives.

Join Summer with SOLVE

This summer, SOLVE invites you to take part in protecting and preserving the natural spaces that make our region special. Whether you're volunteering at a cleanup event, leading your own group, or taking on a DIY project, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.

Try the Trash Bag Challenge—pick up a bag of litter, then challenge friends or coworkers to do the same. Pass the bag, spread the impact, and inspire others to take action.

Every effort counts. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways clean and beautiful for generations to come.

For more information about Summer with SOLVE and how to get involved, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or follow us on social media.

About SOLVE 

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

Elections staff member Luba Ross receives Rising Star of the Year Award

Vancouver, Wash. – Washington State Secretary of State Steve Hobbs earlier this month presented Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey with the state’s Auditor of the Year Award during the Washington State Association of County Auditors 2025 Elections Conference.

Here are Secretary Hobbs’ comments he made during the award presentation: “The successful 2024 election cycle was a culmination of years and years of hard work and preparation. However, no one could have predicted the events that occurred in October 2024, as we saw multiple ballot drop boxes attacked. These attacks began a chain of events to protect our voters and elections administrators who all too often have found themselves in dangerous situations from this unprecedented threat. I’m grateful for the response and support we received from the FBI, our Congressional delegation, Governor’s Office, and the National Guard. However, in the center of all of this was a County Auditor. This County Auditor not only was providing on-the-ground response to a frightened community. They were also on the scene retrieving burned and destroyed ballots directly from the targeted ballot drop boxes. Following these events, this County Auditor improved their fire suppression systems and shared that new system so that others could be better prepared in the future.   In addition to these attacks, this County Auditor was also administering an election for a tightly contested congressional district seat that was in the national spotlight. It is my honor to present this year’s County Auditor of the Year to Greg Kimsey, Clark County Auditor.”

“I’m honored by the recognition. However, it’s the efforts of the Elections Office staff that deserve the credit,” said Kimsey who has served as Auditor since January 1999.

Rising Star of the Year Award

Secretary Hobbs also presented Luba Ross, Elections Coordinator at Clark County Elections with the Rising Star of the Year Award. This award is presented to an individual that, regardless of their position, rose above others and has earned the respect of their peers within the election community.

Secretary Hobbs said Ross received multiple nominations. Hobbs also stated, “Within the nominations I received, this individual was described as, ‘an absolute rockstar with a true passion for election administration,’ and ‘deeply committed to the challenge of ensuring that citizens are confident that election results accurately reflect voters’ collective decisions.’”

At the conference, Secretary Hobbs commended attendees saying, “As Secretary of State, I’m proud of you -- county and state election officials. Together, we ensure that elections in Washington state are conducted fairly, transparently, and accessible to all voters.”

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. [June 17, 2025] — Starting Monday, June 23, Columbia County residents may receive a text message inviting them to sign up for FlashVote, a quick and easy way to share feedback with the County through one-minute surveys.

FlashVote helps local leaders make better decisions by gathering real input from the community. Surveys take less than a minute to complete, and participants can choose to receive them by text, email, or phone. All responses are anonymous, and personal or demographic information is never shared with the County.

If you get a text from FlashVote, we encourage you to sign up. You can also register anytime at www.flashvote.com/colcoor or by calling 775-235-2240 to participate via phone or text only.

“FlashVote gives us a simple, secure way to hear directly from the people we serve,” said Commissioner Margaret Magruder. “These quick surveys will help us make better decisions for Columbia County.”

Watch for a text invitation starting June 23—and take a moment to make your voice heard. Your opinion matters, and it only takes a minute.

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Salem, Ore. – For the fourth year in a row, Oregon Lottery is highlighting the natural beauty of Oregon State Parks with new “Adventures” themed Scratch-its. The $5 tickets feature three designs of Oregon State Park landscapes with a top prize of $50,000. The tickets are available at Oregon Lottery retailers statewide.  

Lottery game play helps ensure that our state parks are continuously maintained and improved, with Oregon State Parks receiving more than $1 billion in Lottery funds since 1999.

The tickets were designed by Oregon Lottery staff and highlight the diversity of the region through scenes featuring the coast, high desert, and the forest and mountain ranges. On the back of each ticket, players will find facts and tidbits about parks and natural areas that correspond to each scene.

“Oregon’s state parks offer everyone the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – whether that’s exploring a challenging trail or a relaxing picnic with a scenic view,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to support Oregon’s park system, which showcases Oregon’s natural beauty.”

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

The event includes interviews with families dealing with Sickle Cell Disease, Red Cross Sickle Cell Advocate and Medical Advisor Dr.Yvette Miller.

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 21, 2025) — The American Red Cross announces the 20th annual Dr. Charles Drew Blood Drive, highlighting the need for a diverse blood supply, Saturday, June 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Red Cross Portland Blood Donation Center, 3131 N. Vancouver Ave. The blood drive also honors World Sickle Cell Day, an international effort to increase public knowledge and an understanding of sickle cell disease.

Blood & Diversity

Sickle cell disease is a lifelong inherited blood disorder that can cause anemia, tissue and organ damage, strokes, and terrible pain. Sickle cell patients often receive blood transfusions on an ongoing basis to help prevent and treat symptoms. A sickle cell patient in need is more likely to find a compatible blood match from a donor of the same race or ethnic group.

Diversity among blood donors is critical because red blood cells carry markers that determine blood type, and certain blood types are unique to specific racial and ethnic groups. In addition, sickle cell disease affects as many as 100,000 people in the U.S. More than 90% of those individuals are of African descent. 

About Dr. Charles Drew

Dr. Drew, known as the “father of the blood bank,” was an African American surgeon, educator and scientist who helped shape the blood services industry. In the 1940s, he laid the groundwork for today’s modern blood donation program through his innovative work in blood banking. The Red Cross blood program started in 1940, under the leadership of Drew, who became the first medical director for the Red Cross.

Read more about Dr. Drew HERE.

The Dr. Charles Drew Blood Drive occurs at a time when the Red Cross urges donors – especially those who have never given blood before –to make an appointment to give. The Red Cross needs donors of all blood types to help ensure a sufficient supply for patients.

All donors will receive a special Dr. Charles R. Drew T– Shirt Join Sistahs4Life Soul Line Dance in the Atrium at 11:00 am.

Special guests include:

Dr. Marcia Taylor

Executive Director of Oregon’s Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation.

Pastor Taylor founded the Sickle Cell Foundation of Oregon in 1985, in honor of her late daughter, Ramona, who passed away due to sickle cell complications. Because of her work, Oregon began testing for sickle cell trait and disease. The Sickle Cell Foundation of Oregon program educates the community via workshops and dissemination of sickle cell educational materials, radio, television, newsletters, and social media.

Willie Leffall:

The Chapter President for Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC) who also shared his story with his two daughters about living with Sickle Cell seven years ago. The girls are now 12 and 16.

Dr. Yvette Miller:

A powerhouse in transfusion medicine, Dr. Yvette Miller is helping to shape clinical practices, broaden awareness and understanding into the plights of those living with sickle cell disease and how blood donors who are Black can help. With a long-distinguished career at the American Red Cross, she serves as the executive medical officer of the donor and client support center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Charletta Malone:

Charletta Malone has been a dedicated Red Cross employee since 1991. She takes pride in educating her community about the importance of donating blood. She is particularly passionate about informing African Americans of the need for blood. She is also an advocate for sickle-cell anemia patients.

Partners:

Thank you to our partners who have made this blood drive successful over the past 20 years.  These groups include Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta, Zeta Phi Beta, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha pKappa Alpha and Portland Links.

Sign up to donate at RedCrossBlood.org. (Sponsor code: “CharlesDrewPDX.”)

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood and provides blood to 65 regional hospitals; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on social media at @RedCrossCascades

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Update: June 17th, 2025.  Please see additional photographs of the suspect from the Geeks and Games burglary.  If you have any information about this burglary, please call the Oregon City Police Tip Line at 503-905-0505.  Please reference OCPD case number 25-010791.

Original Press Release:

On May 24th, 2025, at about 1:07 a.m. the Oregon City Police Department responded to a burglary in progress at the Geeks and Games store located at 1656 Beavercreek Rd.

During the investigation, it was determined that a subject had forcibly made entry into the building and had stolen numerous items valued in excess of $1,000. Notably, among the stolen items were Pokémon Destined Rivals cards, which were not set for release until May 26th.

The suspect in this case is believed to be an adult male, who was wearing all black and had a mask covering his face. The suspect is further described as having a heavier build and estimated to be 6’ to 6’2’’ inches tall.

The attached collage is an assortment of the stolen items and is being shared in hopes that someone might identify them.  It is possible the suspect could attempt to sell these items to another gaming store.  If you have any information about this burglary, please call the Oregon City Police Tip Line at 503-905-0505.  Please reference OCPD case number 25-010791.

For over a year, ONA members have bargained with management at Legacy Unity Center for Behavioral Health, but they still haven’t reached a fair contract. Due to the slow pace of negotiations, RNs, pros and techs (e.g. clinical social workers, behavioral health technicians, therapists) are making their concerns public and holding a rally to raise community awareness. 

When: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Rally and Sign Waving from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
ONA-represented employees of Unity will be available for interviews
 

Where: Sidewalks near Legacy Unity Center
1225 NE 2nd Ave, Portland

Why: The care provided at Unity Center is essential to patients and their loved ones throughout Oregon. People come from across the state and SW Washington for psychiatric and mental health treatment. The specialized care means that caregivers at Unity Center treat adults and adolescents with the most complex needs. High-quality treatment enables patients to return to their homes and communities and keeping everyone safe. However, management’s lack of respect and hostility at the bargaining table have left workers demoralized.

Registered nurses (RNs) are bargaining a successor agreement. In addition to asking for respect from management, they are also asking for improvements to education funds, wages and differentials, health and safety, and staffing.

The pro and tech unit includes clinical social workers, crisis intervention specialists, therapists, behavioral health technicians and other essential employees. These workers need Legacy management to recognize the vital role they play, address wage and differential increases, education funds, health and safety, safe work assignments, and more. This will be their first contract.

ONA members will return to the bargaining table the week of June 23.

After opening in 2017, Unity Center was the subject of multiple Oregon Health Authority (OHA) investigations, which uncovered problems that jeopardized patient safety and threatened Unity’s federal health care certifications. Unity Center was also fined by Oregon’s Occupational Health and Safety Administration for violating safety rules and faced several lawsuits by people who said they were retaliated against or ignored after alerting management to safety issues. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 23,000 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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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sammuel Hawkins
Outreach & Public Programs Manager
Clark County Historical Museum
360-993-5679 | outreach@cchmuseum.org
More info: cchmuseum.org

Clark County Historical Museum Presents: “The Blacklist Era and Hollywood” with Film Critic Robert Horton

Vancouver, WA — The Clark County Historical Museum, in partnership with Humanities Washington and the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission, is proud to host acclaimed film critic and historian Robert Horton for a compelling presentation titled “The Blacklist Era and Hollywood.” The event will take place Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Battle Ground Event Center (912 East Main Street, Battle Ground, WA 98604). Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the presentation running from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free, but advance registration is required due to very limited seating.

At the height of the Cold War, a single question cast a long shadow over American cinema: “Are you now or have you ever been a member of the Communist Party?” This thought-provoking presentation examines the impact of the 1940s Red Scare, when the House Committee on Un-American Activities thrust actors, writers, and directors into the national spotlight, forcing them to either “name names” or face blacklisting and career ruin.

Illustrated with iconic film clips, Horton explores how patriotism, fear, and politics collided in Hollywood through the experiences of industry legends like Humphrey Bogart, Elia Kazan, and Charlie Chaplin. He concludes with a provocative question for today's audiences: Could it happen again?

Robert Horton (he/him) is a nationally respected voice in film criticism. With bylines in the Seattle Weekly, the Everett Herald, and on KUOW, he is a member of the National Society of Film Critics and author of several books, including a study of Frankenstein. Horton has also served as a Fulbright specialist, Smithsonian Journeys speaker, and educator at Seattle University and London’s Architectural Association. He currently hosts The Music and the Movies radio show and resides in Seattle.

Please note: This event will not be held at the Clark County Historical Museum.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Venue: Battle Ground Event Center
Address: 912 East Main Street, Battle Ground, WA 98604
Doors Open: 6:30 PM
Program: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Admission: Free (registration required)

For more information and to reserve your seat, visit www.cchmuseum.org.

Date: June 17, 2025          

For Immediate Release                                                          Contact:

media@lhs.org

Randall Children’s Hospital free Touch-A-Truck event on June 21^st for families and children, 9 am - noon

What: Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel is pleased to invite families and children of all ages to the third annual Touch-A-Truck event.  Children can visit the safety stations and enjoy a variety of vehicles on display.

Each family will leave with supplies and education to ensure children stay safe. This year’s event was made possible by generous donations made to the Randall Children’s Hospital Foundation.

When/Where: Saturday, June 21, at Clackamas Community College, located at S.E. Harmony Road in Portland, Or 97222.

Time: 9 am – Noon. Free and all age-friendly

Why: Members of the Randall Children’s Hospital Child Injury Prevention team will be there to help families learn more about water safety, car seats, and boosters at a child passenger safety station. They will also get home safety tips to keep children safe and avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital. Health educators and certified child passenger safety technicians will be available to answer questions and provide parents and caregivers with hands-on demonstrations. Lots of giveaways!

Visuals:

• Vehicles: tow trucks, fire engines, ambulances, a bus, cars and more
• Children and families
• Many vendor booths with safety and injury prevention information

Interviews: Amber Kroeker and Emily Dicksa with the Randall Children’s Hospital

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. We 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 www.legacyhealth.org.

The Lincoln City Police Department will be utilizing our grant funds to conduct a Pedestrian Safety Operation on Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 on Hwy 101 in the area of South 29th Street.

The primary focus of the operation is to raise pedestrian safety awareness. With the use of a decoy pedestrian, the Lincoln City Police Department hopes to raise awareness of drivers and pedestrians through education and enforcement of pedestrian right-of-way laws. The operation will be conducted between the hours of 11:00AM and 3:00PM. Warning signs will be posted prior to entering the pedestrian safety operation zone.

The members of the Lincoln City Police Department are dedicated to enhancing the safety of our citizens and guests of the city, and these safety operations are conducted in an effort to reduce the potential for injuries or death to pedestrians in our city.

Funding for the pedestrian safety operations are made possible through a grant provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact.

Submitted By:

Sgt Torin Liden

Under Authority Of:

Chief David Broderick 

PF&R responds to large grass fire in N. Portland

At just before 7PM, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a possible grass fire with a caller reporting seeing smoke from a grass field. The location of the field is to the North of the Cintas Warehouse located in the 12300 block of N. Columbia. Engine 22 arrived to a large field (400’x600’ with a distinct slope heading to the west with a few deciduous trees randomly placed throughout) to have fire running nearly the length of the field in light fuels that was beginning to impinge upon the cyclone fencing surrounding the warehouse.

With the large amount of fire, the command officer balanced this vegetation fire to a Wildland Box Assignment to have enough personnel with the correct equipment to address the fire. With the location of this incident, all help is coming from the south and in one case, a rig responded SW Portland with their specialized brush unit used to gain access to fire across soft soils.

There was a light wind out of the north that pushed the fire up against a cyclone fence and ignited a large wooden storage shed on the interior of the warehouse property. Crews diverted from the grass fire to address this structure to prevent this from growing to consume an additional structure or the fleet of Cintas vans in the adjacent parking lot. With heavy fire and the unknown contents of the interior of the shed, the command officer directed a defensive fire operation to use large streams of water to extinguish the fire from the exterior. The wooden roof structure collapsed to reveal 2 large metal con-ex containers that were housed in what was now a burned up wooden shell. Crews kept the fire to the shed structure and prevented the extension of fire to adjacent structures and vehicles.

As the engines were addressing the shed, the brush units and personal ATV’s extinguished the fire in the grass field. Within an hour the crews totaling nearly 30 firefighters had eliminated all the flames present and had ensured the shed was completely extinguished.

Portland Fire Investigations Unit has responded and is performing their forensic investigation to determine cause. It was determined the contents of the large steel storage containers were paper products and metal valves and do not pose an environmental hazard. No reported injuries.

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Vancouver, WA – This summer, the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) invites you to take a break from your desk and step into the stories of our community with Explore Clark County—a brand-new walking tour series led by longtime museum team member and local historian Tracy Reilly-Kelly.

These free lunchtime tours will take place on select Fridays from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., offering a quick but fascinating dive into the people, places, and events that have shaped Clark County. Each week, Tracy will lead guests through a different neighborhood or historical theme, featuring her favorite hidden gems, newly uncovered stories, and beloved sites that help paint the rich tapestry of our region’s past.

“This is a wonderful way to reconnect with local history in under an hour,” says Brad Richardson, CCHM’s Executive Director. “Tracy brings an incredible passion for storytelling and deep knowledge of our community. These tours are perfect for locals, downtown workers, or anyone curious about Clark County’s past.”

2025 Tour Schedule:

• June 20 – Women’s HerStory: Librarians, Merchants, YWCA + Clubs
  Meet at the Clark County Historical Museum (1511 Main St, Vancouver)
• July 11 – Downtown Neighborhood: Upper Main / Hough West
  Explore Vancouver’s early housing developments and neighborhoods
  Meet at the Museum
• July 18 – Kauffman Ave: Urban + Rural
  Uncover the origins of the Fruit Valley Neighborhood
  Meet at John Ball Park (2300 E 20th St)
• August 15 – Horrible Homicides vs Early Churches + Revival Grounds
  A dramatic tour of the Courthouse District
  Meet at the Clark County Courthouse (1200 Franklin St)
• August 22 – Arnada: Who Are Margaret Ranns, Anna Eastham, and Ida Elwell?
  Discover the lives of the women behind the neighborhood
  Meet at Arnada Park (2404 H St)
• September 12 – Old City Cemetery: Find This Summer’s People
  Explore stories of early residents and summer discoveries
  Meet at the corner of 13th & Z St, near Grand Blvd & Mill Plain

All tours are under one hour and designed to fit perfectly into your lunch break. No registration required—just show up ready to explore!

For more information, visit www.cchmuseum.org or call (360) 993-5679. Follow CCHM on Facebook and Instagram for updates and weather-related announcements.

Media Contact:
Sammuel Hawkins, Public Programs & Outreach Manager
Clark County Historical Museum
Email: each@cchmuseum.org">outreach@cchmuseum.org
Phone: (360) 993-5679
Website: www.cchmuseum.org

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a June 2, 2025 collision involving a bicyclist on Highway 14.

This individual died on 06/02/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Geraci, Gregory Sam   Age: 61 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): unknown

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Blunt trauma

Manner of death:  Accident

How the injury occurred: Pedestrian that was involved in motor vehicle collision

Place of injury: State highway

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

Media release issue date: 06/16/2025

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a body recovered from the Columbia River on May 30, 2025.

This individual was found on 05/30/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Fred, Franky Chris   Age: 18 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

Place of injury: Flushing channel between Vancouver Lake and Columbia River

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

Media release issue date: 06/16/2025

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Gresham, Oregon man made his first appearance in federal court today after he was charged with assaulting a federal law enforcement officer during a declared riot Saturday near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Ginovanni Joseph Brumbelow, 21, has been charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on June 14, 2025, thousands of people engaged in peaceful protests in Portland. In the afternoon, several hundred people gathered in protest at an ICE office in South Portland where some individuals targeted the building with mortar fireworks, rocks, bricks, and glass bottles. The gathering was later declared a riot by local law enforcement. At approximately 5:50pm, individuals breached the exterior door of the ICE office before being pushed back by federal officers. Additional federal officers, including Customs and Border Protection Tactical Unit (BORTAC) agents, were dispatched to the location.

At around 8:00pm the same evening, a BORTAC agent was assisting with the arrest of a rioter when he felt a sharp pain in the back of his head. The agent released the individual he was arresting and turned to observe a male rioter, later identified to be Brumbelow, directing a pointed wooden stake at him. Surveillance footage later reviewed by investigators confirmed the positions of Brumbelow and the agent amid the riot when the assault occurred.

Brumbelow made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was released on conditions pending his arraignment on July 16, 2025.

Assaulting a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—An Oregon City, Oregon man made his first appearance in federal court today after he was charged with assaulting a federal law enforcement officer during a declared riot Saturday near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Joshua Ames Cartrette, 46, has been charged by criminal complaint with misdemeanor assault of a federal officer.

According to court documents, on June 14, 2025, thousands of people engaged in peaceful protests in Portland. In the afternoon, several hundred people gathered in protest at an ICE office in South Portland where some individuals targeted the building with mortar fireworks, rocks, bricks, and glass bottles. The gathering was later declared a riot by local law enforcement. At approximately 5:50pm, individuals breached the exterior door of the ICE office before being pushed back by federal officers. Additional federal officers, including Customs and Border Protection Tactical Unit (BORTAC) agents, were dispatched to the location.

Later the same evening, a BORTAC agent observed Cartrette push another agent and kick multiple deployed tear gas canisters toward other agents.

Cartrette made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Misdemeanor assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to one year in federal prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.— Kielan Robert Eugene Fitzsimonds, 33, of Eugene has been charged with willful depredation of government property for breaking the window of a federal government vehicle.

According to court documents, on June 8, 2025, Fitzsimonds is alleged to have intentionally thrown rocks at a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) vehicle parked at a federal building in Eugene. The rocks shattered the vehicle’s back window and dented its trunk and hood.

On June 10, 2025, a federal agent discovered the damaged vehicle and found a large rock in the back seat. Investigators obtained surveillance footage from the building which showed a man, later identified as Fitzsimonds, attempting to enter the building and throwing objects at vehicles in the parking lot.

Fitzsimonds made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

Salem, OR – The Salem Multicultural Institute proudly announces that Turtle Island: People of the Land will be the featured culture at the 28th annual World Beat Festival, June 27–29, 2025, at Salem’s Riverfront Park.

One of Salem’s most treasured traditions, the World Beat Festival celebrates global cultures through music, dance, food, crafts, customs, and storytelling. This year, the focus is on Turtle Island—a term used to describe North and Central America. The festival will honor the traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples through performances, cuisine, art, and educational exhibits.

Festival Highlights:

• Headliner Supaman - Supaman’s one-of-a-kind presentation combines Native American culture, comedy, and urban hip-hop culture, which dazzles audiences and captivates listeners. 

• International Food – Authentic global flavors

• Artisan Vendors – Handmade crafts and goods

• Dragon Boat Races – Thrilling river competition

• Beer & Wine Garden – Local beverages in a relaxed setting

• Children’s Parade – A festive kickoff celebrating world cultures

The festival begins on Friday, June 27, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., with Friday Night at the Beat, featuring the Severin Sisters, Wamba, and a fire dance show at the amphitheater.

The full festival opens on Saturday, June 28, and kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with the Children’s Parade. Kids receive a World Passport to explore cultural tents and enjoy games and activities. Professional storytellers will share tales from Ghana, Mali, Japan, the Philippines, Cambodia, Ukraine, and the Klamath-Modoc tribe.

More than 400 volunteers make the festival possible each year, helping with setup, logistics, and stage coordination. Their dedication powers this vibrant community event.

For the full schedule, volunteer sign-ups, or more info, visit www.worldbeatfestival.org or call (503) 581-2004.

Admission:

• $10/day for adults

• $15/weekend pass

• Free for children (0–14), SNAP cardholders, Veterans, and Gilbert House members

Festival Hours:

• Friday, June 27: 5–10 p.m. (Friday Night at the Beat)

• Saturday, June 28: 10 a.m.–11 p.m.

• Sunday, June 29: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Location: Salem Riverfront Park, 200 Water St NE, Salem, OR 97301

Parking: Downtown Salem offers five multi-level parking garages. Details available online.

Follow the World Beat Festival on: Facebook: facebook.com/WorldBeatFestival and Instagram: instagram.com/worldbeatfestival

About the Salem Multicultural Institute: The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting intercultural understanding and celebrating diversity. Through programs like the World Beat Festival, SMI fosters a vibrant and inclusive community.

Learn more at www.salemmulticultural.org.

Overcoming the odds, all 20 Kelso High School seniors currently experiencing homelessness (students who qualify under McKinney-Vento) graduated with their peers on Saturday, June 7.  Together, they earned an average GPA of 2.80 and reported a collective $21,750 in scholarships. Two of the 20 seniors graduated with honor cords, and all 20 have post-graduation plans of college, military, trade school, or an internship.

This is the second year in a row (and third time ever) Kelso School District has a 100% graduation rate for students experiencing homelessness in their senior year.

The grad rates of 2025 (and 2024) Kelso High School (KHS) seniors experiencing homelessness outpaces the 2024 grad rates of Washington State McKinney-Vento students at 61.9%, all WA students at 82.8%, and all Kelso School District students at 91.4%.

This amazing group has persevered through challenges children shouldn’t have to. Some examples include:

• One unaccompanied youth worked full-time while maintaining an A average and taking advanced courses. This student is going to a four-year college in the fall.
• One unaccompanied youth worked at two jobs for over 50 hours a week into early morning hours to support two siblings while couch surfing. This student is going to a four-year college in the fall.
• One unaccompanied youth experiencing the loss of all family and bouncing from place to place will be going into the military to serve our country while making a life for themselves.

The district credits this outstanding achievement to the entire staff supporting the district-wide goal of 100% graduation and the focused work of the Family & Community Resource Center (FCRC) team. Founded in the fall of 2021, Kelso’s FCRC works to assist the whole child and whole family with a unified system of supports addressing overall health and well-being through three key areas: behavioral health, physical health, and basic needs.

One of the keys to success of the FCRC team’s efforts is the strong network of supports they build and maintain in the surrounding community. That network includes private organizations, public agencies, individual donors, community members, and former and current district staff.

“We could not do this by ourselves,” said Nancy Baldwin, Youth & Family Support Specialist and McKinney-Vento/Unaccompanied Youth/Foster Care Liaison. “It does take a village, and we have a great village. So many people who care as much as we do about these kids and refuse to let circumstances define outcomes.”

Kelso’s 2025 FCRC by the numbers:

• 412 McKinney-Vento youth served (20 of which are seniors)
• 51 unaccompanied youth
• 34 youth in foster care
• Directly coordinated housing for 24 families resulting in 68 youth staying in Kelso schools
• Provided over 10,000 lbs of food for Kelso youth and their families
• Assisted 2 parents with getting jobs in the Kelso School District

“Our goal is for every student to graduate ready for their next step, and this achievement exemplifies what’s possible when we rally around that goal with focus and dedication,” said Mary Beth Tack, Kelso School District Superintendent. “These students faced extraordinary challenges and still crossed the finish line — with purpose, pride, and plans for the future. It’s a testament to their grit and the unwavering commitment of our staff and community.”

OSPI data for “homeless” graduates includes all students who have ever experienced homelessness even if they are currently housed, making their data appear differently.

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

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 16, 2025) – On the evening of June 13, 2025, troopers from the Oregon State Police Drug Enforcement Section and Mobile Response Teams partnered with the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) and Linn County Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (LINE) for a targeted mission in downtown Portland aimed at disrupting illegal drug activity.

The enforcement effort focused on street-level dealers in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood. In total, the teams made five arrests on charges related to distributing and possessing controlled substances, as well as firearms-related offenses.

During the three-hour operation, officers seized 60.3 grams of methamphetamine, 11.7 grams of fentanyl, and 25 grams of Xanax pills. A privately made firearm, commonly referred to as a ghost gun, was also recovered.

Arrests and charges included:

• Michael Yarborough, 60: Distribution of a controlled substance
• Lawrence White, 51: Distribution of a controlled substance
• Willie Waller, 50: Distribution of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a Schedule II substance
• Lawrence Serban, 54: Distribution of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, possession of fentanyl
• Candrew Post, 24: Distribution of a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm

Waller and Post were lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

# # # 

OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the OSP-DHE Initiative.

Polk County, Ore. 16 June 2025- On Sunday, June 15, 2025, at 7:07 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 18, near milepost 27, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Nikita P Sukhodolov (19) of Salem, made a left hand turn into a gravel lot and entered the path of a westbound Kawasaki ZX-18 motorcycle, operated by Joseph Nicholas Grammer (50) of Grand Ronde. The Kawasaki struck the side of the Freightliner during the collision.

The Kawasaki operator (Grammer) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Sukhodolov) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Polk County Sheriff's Office and the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office.

# # #

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

Final tally of the blood drive competition:

House 9 units of blood. 

Senate 9 units of blood.

A tie! 

See you next year.  

B-Roll Soundbites and pics

Saving lives through blood donation is one thing all lawmakers can agree upon, especially as we head into the summer months. Join us for this friendly blood drive competition where everyone wins!

• When: Monday June 16, 2025, 8:30am to Noon.
• Where: Red Cross Bloodmobile on Salem Street near the South entrance to the State Capitol.
• Who: Drive sponsor Senator James Manning (D-Eugene), Secretary of State Tobias Read (available at 8:30am, donating at 9am), Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes, and Red Cross Board Chair Darrell Fuller.
• Why: The need for blood increases in the summer because of a rise in trauma injuries.  Blood drives like these help us support our local hospitals with lifesaving blood.

“We are thrilled to see our lawmakers in Salem stepping up to save lives. Even during this busy time at the capital, they recognize that blood donations drop in the summertime because of a reduction in school blood drives, an increase in summer vacations, and travel,” says Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes.  

Blood stats:

• Every 2 seconds someone in this country needs blood.
• Every 15 seconds someone needs platelets.
• Blood has a shelf life of 42 days.
• Platelets have a shelf life of only 5 days.
• Type-O blood (the universal blood type) is most needed, but ALL blood types are welcome and needed.
• Your single blood donation can help more than one person, and it takes only an hour to complete the process.
• One-in-seven trips to the hospital require a blood transfusion.
• One trauma patient can require up to 100 units of blood.

Sign up to donate by going to: RedCrossBlood.org (Sponsor Code: StateCapitol) or by calling 1-800-RedCross.

Those who come to give June 1-30, 2025, will get a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email and will be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Terms apply.

Download the Blood Donor App today to book your next appointment, track your lifetime donations, and follow your donation on its way to the hospital.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood and provides blood to 65 regional hospitals; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on social media at @RedCrossCascades.

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Clatsop County, Ore. 16 June 2025- On Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 3:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 2, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Toyota Avalon, operated by a male juvenile (16), crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and struck a westbound Toyota Camry, operated by Lynette Marie Love (50) of Othello (WA), head-on.

The operator of the Toyota Camry (Love) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Toyota Avalon (male juvenile) and passengers, Ricardo Brooks Gorwood (19) of Canby and Jacob William Dahl (18) of Molalla, suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Cannon Beach Police Department, Seaside Police Department, Seaside Fire Department, and ODOT.

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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 Opioid Abatement Council recently awarded monies from an opioid settlement to several local organizations that provide drug prevention and treatment programs as well as recovery services.

Clark County in 2018 filed a lawsuit in federal court against several pharmaceutical companies that sell opioids. Clark County joined more than 400 jurisdictions nationwide seeking to hold the companies accountable for harm opioid addiction inflicted on their communities.

As part of the settlement, jurisdictions must establish an Opioid Abatement Council that will make decisions on awarding grants to applicants. The Clark County Opioid Abatement Council awarded grants to seven local organizations for a total amount of more than $5.3 million.

The largest grant was awarded to the City of Vancouver. The grant provides partial funding for the construction of a Bridge Shelter in the Vancouver Mall area. The goal of the shelter is to provide a stable environment for those experiencing homelessness which include services such as addiction treatment and housing support. The Opioid Abatement Council awarded the City of Vancouver $2.75 million for the Bridge Shelter Project.

Several other organizations also received grants. Below are the grant amounts and a brief description of how they will be used.

• Clark County Jail Services: $1,1 million; Expansion of the Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Program to include prescription and recovery support services.
• Couve Collective: $101,708; Continued support for the Couve Opiate Response Effort including naloxone distribution, case management, and a dedicated communication line for participants.
• ESD 112: $338,405; Collaborative projects with local schools for opioid prevention education, safe storage initiatives, medication disposal coordination, and naloxone access improvement.
• Recovery Café Clark County: $400,000; Enhancement of services including new recovery coaches and training for peer workers in collaboration with emergency responders and community courts.
• Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health: $410,794; Support for the Narcan vending machine project, aiming to improve accessibility to opioid overdose reversal medication.
• Vancouver Public Schools: $199,663; Establishment of a Prevention/Intervention Specialist to focus on early intervention and prevention in elementary schools.

The county has contracted with Carelon Behavioral Health to administer the settlement funding. The settlement requires Carelon to establish a dashboard to provide a public space for opioid settlement data. Carelon is in the process of finalizing contracts with the organizations receiving the grants.

The grants approved by the Opioid Abatement Council are for the 2025 process. Requesting grants from the settlement funds will be an ongoing annual process that begins each March. 

CORVALLIS, Ore. – A task force assembled by Benton County has concluded the first phase of work on a regional Sustainable Materials Management Plan. Representatives of the group will present their findings to the Benton County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, June 17 in a meeting scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.

The meeting will be held at the County’s Kalapuya building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or virtually. More information is available on the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal.

Sustainable development and environmental stewardship are priorities for Benton County leadership and the Board of Commissioners. In spring 2024 they committed to searching for ways to dramatically reduce the amount of solid waste at the end of the materials life cycle — trash, recycling and compost — by addressing the beginning (production) and middle (reuse and repair) of that life cycle. The County began assembling a group of experts and decision-makers from throughout the region.

The resulting SMMP task force includes City and County government elected officials and staff, state agency representatives and experts and innovators in sustainable materials and solid waste management. At a kickoff meeting in October 2024, four subcommittees were created to consider policy initiatives, necessary investments, cross-governmental collaboration and programmatic recommendations.

Subcommittees dedicated to food & organics, the built environment and products & packaging evaluated case studies of policies that state and local government can pursue to reduce life cycle material impacts. The resulting recommendations support the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality ’s Material Management Program priorities.

The fourth subcommittee, focused on regional solid waste management, looked at solutions to proactively prepare for the closure of the Coffin Butte landfill sometime around 2037. Coffin Butte receives waste from 11 counties in northwest Oregon.

“The time to act is now. Solid waste facilities are notoriously time-consuming to get site approval for,” said Bailey Payne, solid waste coordinator for Benton County. “Any facility investments recommended by this committee will take many years to come to fruition.”

Cost is another challenge that requires local and state governments working together. “Collaboration between communities will allow the region to look at solutions that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive to any individual jurisdiction,” said Payne.

A final report on the work of the SMMP task force will be developed in July. It will include context and data, key findings and recommendations for each subcommittee and for systemic challenges facing our region. The recommendations will be organized to identify the key partners that have the greatest opportunity to implement systemic change. Actions need to be taken at all levels of government as well as private and non-profit sectors.

“It is in the best interest of the region — from Metro to Lane County — to continue the excellent work of this current SMMP task force,” says Marion County Commissioner Kevin Cameron. “We will need regional efforts and collaboration to take advantage of local opportunities.”

State Representative Sarah Finger McDonald, who represents Benton County, submitted legislation that would create a solid waste task force in the Willamette Valley to continue this much-needed work. Under House Bill 3794, this new group would move ahead with the findings and recommendations of the current task force to submit a report to the Oregon Legislature in 2026.

Learn more about the regional SMMP Task Force at https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/smmp-task-force/.

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. [June 16, 2025] – Columbia County Public Health, in collaboration with Columbia Health Services and multiple community partners, recently completed a spring series of Bridges & Beyond: Youth Prevention Fair and Family Night events across local school districts.

The expanded series reached students and families in Rainier, Clatskanie, St. Helens, Scappoose, and Vernonia, offering substance use prevention education and cessation support. The expansion of these events was developed with input and guidance from Youth Era’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC), ensuring that programming reflects a youth-led approach to prevention. Events featured guest speakers, engaging activities, and information about local resources.

“This year’s events provided students and families with valuable prevention and cessation tools,” said Haley Schimmel, Health Promotion Specialist for Columbia County Public Health. “We’re grateful for the many partners who helped make these expanded events possible.”

“This year's prevention fair was a great community collaboration. The Bridges & Beyond event gave voice to youth SUD prevention for parents and students,” said Leyla Duechle, Community Health Worker for Columbia Health Services. “As a community, we are more aware of youths’ needs around prevention and support. I am excited for next year’s events.”

In addition to Columbia County, prevention events were also held in Jewell, located in Clatsop County, where Columbia Health Services operates a school-based health center. Clatsop County Public Health and other local agencies assisted with these outreach efforts.

Community partners supporting this year’s prevention events included Columbia Health Services, Youth Era, Columbia Community Mental Health, The New Drug Talk Oregon, Clatsop County Public Health, and others.

The final event of the season was held on May 21 at Vernonia Schools, concluding this year’s multi-week series.

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Images:

1. Community partners together at Rainier's Youth Prevention Fair.
2. Students participate by adding to the "I AM ONE" banner, describing their “one choice” to be drug-free at Vernonia's Youth Prevention Fair.
3. Community partners together at St. Helens' Family Night Event.

Photography Credit: Leyla Duechle, Columbia Health Services

Salem – With hotter, drier conditions arriving early this year, Oregon’s Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is urging residents to prepare now for an active 2025 wildfire season. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, fire activity has increased gradually since May, droughts have intensified in the Northwest already, and several significant fires have broken out recently.

“We are anticipating an active fire season,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Many people may not realize this, but more acres burned in Oregon last year than in the 2020 wildfires. Fortunately, there was not the same loss of life or structures. But it is extremely important for Oregonians do what they can to prepare their properties for this summer and fall. The weather is getting much warmer, and drier, which means the risk of wildfires is high.”

In the 2020s alone, Oregon wildfires have caused nearly $3 billion in estimated losses, which is more than the previous four decades combined.

The National Interagency Fire Center anticipates that in July, August, and September, most of Oregon will be above normal in its fire activity.

What can you do to prepare? DFR has created a disaster toolkit on its website, which includes how to financially prepare for wildfire season, wildfire preparation for your home, and evacuation tips. The Oregon Department of Forestry also has good information on active wildfires in the state.

To save time, money, and stress, consider these steps before disaster strikes:

• Review your insurance policies with your agent or company to ensure you are adequately protected. Many homeowners are unknowingly underinsured.
• Build a home inventory. Take a video of the personal property in each room of your home and describe the items as you record. You can also use a home inventory app or a home inventory tool provided by your insurance company.
• Gather copies of important documents such as titles, insurance policies, tax records, birth and marriage certificates, and Social Security cards. Store them in a password-protected cloud or with your emergency kit.
• Make a list of account numbers and customer service contact information for insurance companies, banks, lenders, utilities, and landlords.
• Set aside enough cash to get you and your family through the first several days after an emergency.

For more information, go to dfr.oregon.gov/preparenow.

“The more you can do before a wildfire hits your home, the better the recovery process can be,” Keen said. “When a fire strikes, there’s a lot of emotions involved, including fear, anger, and confusion and having the right insurance policy, an inventory list, and an overall plan can alleviate a lot of those fears.”

DFR also has a webpage dedicated to wildfire insurance resources. One area that often gets overlooked is how to make your home as fireproof as possible by creating defensible space by removing dry leaves, dead brush, debris, and pine needles from yards and gutters. Trim trees away from your home, barns, and sheds, and place screens over open vents on homes. These tasks reduce the fuels that enable wildfires to spread and give firefighters more time to slow the blaze. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s website has more information about defensible space.

If damaged by wildfires, our consumer advocates are available to help with any insurance questions. You can reach them at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

(CASCADE LOCKS, Ore.) – Herman the Sturgeon is kind of a big deal in Oregon and we’re celebrating their birthday on Sunday, June 22, at Bonneville Fish Hatchery in the Columbia River Gorge! The festivities begin at 10 am and wrap around 2 pm.

This is an all-ages experience to celebrate the passing of another year in Herman’s long and storied life. Come join us to sing Happy Birthday, have a cupcake, join the scavenger hunt, and take an “ussie” with a legendary fish!

We are also pleased to announce that our partner, Ferment Brewing, is releasing another round of “High Five, Herman” IPA, available to those 21 years of age and older at their tasting room on Hood River’s waterfront and in 4-packs at select stores throughout the greater Portland metro area. 

“High Five, Herman!” was brewed using regional, environmentally responsible ingredients from mission-driven suppliers. Mainstem Malt, a company that works directly with farmers in the Columbia River Basin to supply Salmon-Safe grains, provides the malt for this beer. The hops, sourced from Crosby Hops in Woodburn, are also Salmon-Safe, meaning they are grown using watershed-friendly and climate-resilient stewardship practices to protect water quality and wildlife habitats.

Herman’s story includes trips between the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife’s (ODFW) Roaring River Fish Hatchery near Scio and the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem. Beginning in the 1930s and up until the 1980s, one Herman or another was a mainstay at the State Fair’s Animal Village exhibit. Life on the road is hard on a fish, so ODFW stopped trucking Herman places and started planning for a permanent home. 

To provide Herman with a safe and healthy environment, a campaign was launched in 1997 to build him a suitable habitat at Bonneville Fish Hatchery. In collaboration with ODFW, Oregon Wildlife Foundation (OWF) raised the money needed, more than $350,000, to construct the Sturgeon Viewing & Interpretive Center at the hatchery. Dedicated on Sept. 27, 1998, the Center is one of Oregon’s top visitor attractions. 

The Center has served its purpose well for over 26 years, but prolonged exposure to Gorge weather and the passage of time have taken a toll on the building. In addition, Herman’s habitat needs some improvements and the interpretive signage, designed for an early internet audience, needs updating.

Birthday gifts, aka tax-deductible donations to assist us with this renovation campaign, are most welcome! You can make a gift using the following link: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/oregon-wildlife-foundation/sturgeon-interpretive-center

"We hope that Herman’s fans will join us in supporting improvements to the Center, but also within the pond that is their home," said Tim Greseth, Executive Director of the Foundation.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation also owns and operates gift stores at the hatchery and in downtown Hood River. The store at Bonneville features coffee drinks, treats, local and regional gift items, and, of course, Herman the Sturgeon memorabilia. Proceeds from the sale of merchandise at the Foundation’s gift stores support fish and wildlife conservation efforts throughout Oregon. During the month of June, donations made at checkout at either of our stores are dedicated to the Center’s renovation expenses.

Sturgeon Conservation

Herman the Sturgeon is approximately 10 feet long, weighs over 500 pounds, and is more than 80 years old, but who cares, age is just a number! There are records of larger and older white sturgeon in the Columbia River and elsewhere in Oregon, but Herman is an excellent example of this large and long-lived species. Worldwide, there are 23 sturgeon species, with seven found in North America. Only two, white and green sturgeon, are found in Oregon and along the West Coast. Both are classified as “Species of Greatest Conservation Need” in Oregon’s State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP).

In the Columbia River basin and elsewhere, white sturgeon face serious challenges, including habitat fragmented by dams, rising water temperatures, and more frequent low-flow years. These impacts, taken together, threaten the long-term survival of this ancient species in Oregon.

Bonneville Hatchery and Sturgeon Viewing and Interpretive Center

The Sturgeon Viewing and Interpretive Center is located at Bonneville Fish Hatchery, 70543 NE Herman Loop, in Cascade Locks. From I-84, take Exit 40 to Bonneville Dam/Fish Hatchery. Follow the signs to the hatchery and park in the parking lot. For more information on the Sturgeon Viewing and Interpretive Center, visit www.myodfw.com/bonneville-hatchery-visitors-guide.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

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

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Herman’s Birthday Schedule

10 am - birthday celebration kickoff

  meet OWF staff,

             scavenger hunt!

             self-guided tours of the hatchery

11 am - sing “Happy Birthday” to Herman

12 pm - cupcakes/drawing of Herman raffle

  1 pm - sing “happy birthday” to Herman

  2 pm - end of celebration

Here are some ways you can help conserve sturgeon:

• Take care of our natural resources for present and future generations
  • Properly dispose of trash and waste materials
  • Think about activities that impact our streams, including pollution from:
    • Motor oil leaking from vehicles or its improper disposal
    • Detergents from washing vehicles in driveways
    • Using phosphate-based fertilizers on lawns or in farming operations
• Use less water and electricity - that’s good for your pocketbook and the environment.
• Follow fish and wildlife regulations. 
• Report the illegal take (poaching) of sturgeon to Oregon State Police or through the Turn In Poachers hotline: 1-800-452-7888

June 16, 2025

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

Oregon third worst for hepatitis C deaths in U.S., according to reports 

PORTLAND, Ore.—As national data show Oregon’s hepatitis C rates are among the worst in the nation, state officials are emphasizing a need for increased community-based screenings and prevention and treatment services in the most affected populations.

According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people in Oregon are 2.7 times more likely than people who live in other U.S. states to die from hepatitis C--the leading cause of preventable death from reportable disease in Oregon.

The rate of hepatitis-caused deaths in Oregon is 6.76 per 100,000 population, compared with the nationwide average of 2.52 per 100,000.

That is the second-worst rate among U.S. states and ranks behind only Oklahoma and the District of Columbia, according to the CDC’s recently released 2023 Viral Hepatitis Surveillance Report and the 2025 Viral Hepatitis National Progress Report.

“Hepatitis C is common, causes serious illness and leads to a lot of hospitalizations and deaths. The good news is that we can now treat it and spare people a lot of suffering,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“My hope is that public health can play the important role of linking people with hepatitis C to appropriate care,” he said.

Additional resources for bolstering community-based hepatitis C screening, prevention and treatment would be devoted to:

• Developing proven peer-supported services.
• Connecting those afflicted with hepatitis C to life-saving care.
• Training and assisting communities and health care partners in developing systems to eliminate hepatitis C within affected populations.
• Developing systems at the state and local levels to track progress from testing through cure.

The two CDC reports summarize hepatitis A, B and C surveillance and mortality data, which inform the nation’s viral hepatitis response and monitor progress toward national elimination goals.

Hepatitis is liver inflammation, most commonly caused by a virus. In the United States, the most common hepatitis viruses are A, B and C. Each produces similar symptoms, but only B and C can cause chronic (long-term) infection. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and death.

Effective vaccines exist for hepatitis A and B; there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, but it can be cured with medication.

Analysis of CDC’s hepatitis C data for Oregon found that:

• People who use illicit drugs run the highest risk of hepatitis C infection.
• Hepatitis C is most common in people 20–29 years of age.
• Due to systemic challenges increasing risk factors, members of the Black, American Indian and Alaska Native populations are twice as likely to contract hepatitis C, compared with the state average.

In this video, Cieslak explains why hepatitis is a significant public health threat.

Hepatitis C used to be very difficult to treat, but it can now be cured with a short course of treatment. However, additional resources are needed for public health to increase community-based hepatitis C screening and linkage to prevention and treatment services in affected populations.

An Oregon Health & Science University study published in March 2025 showed that significant success in treating hepatitis C could be achieved in rural Oregon by using a combination of peer support services and telehealth. But these are not available statewide.

Peer support from people with lived experiences in drug use, shown to build trust and reduce barriers to care, and easy access to care using telemedicine led to a 63% cure rate compared to just 16% with enhanced usual care, the study found.

National goals for 2030 call for at least 80% of people with hepatitis C to be cured. Data from 2013–2022 show only 27% of Oregonians with hepatitis C have been cured, compared with a national average of 35%.

“We’d love to be able to implement peer support services and telehealth for hepatitis C systematically across the state,” Cieslak said.

OHA maintains a dashboard tracking reportable communicable diseases, including hepatitis.

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.

The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon. 

To learn more about viral hepatitis in Oregon, visit OHA’s webpage.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Parks and Nature division of Clark County Public Works invites the community to participate in planning for improvements to Orchards Community Park. A survey is available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/orchards-community-park for community members to submit their ideas and feedback. The survey is also available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian. Community members can also request a paper survey by contacting Parks and Trails Planner Michael Chau at michael.chau@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5886.

Community input will help guide the selection and design of the future improvements. Engagement with the survey will also support Parks and Nature’s applications for grants from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. Grants will support funding for park improvements.

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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The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) proudly recognizes the 19 bankers who comprise the 2025 graduating class of the Northwest Bank Operations School. A cornerstone of OBA’s professional development offerings for almost 30 years, the program remains one of the association’s most respected and enduring resources for bank operations professionals.

Over the course of four, 1.5-day sessions from March through June, students received practical, real-world instruction on key aspects of bank operations. Topics included the business of banking, regulatory structure, fraud prevention, elder financial abuse, workplace safety, customer experience, compliance, new accounts, employee supervision, and the rapidly evolving payments landscape. Sessions also focused on leadership, ethics, and strategies for navigating change in a complex and regulated industry.

The school concluded last week in Wilsonville with a graduation ceremony and a panel discussion with bank leaders on the future of banking and the importance of community engagement. Students were joined by mentors, supervisors, and senior bank leaders in celebrating the milestone.

“The Northwest Bank Operations School equips bankers with the essential tools and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s fast-changing financial services landscape,” said Scott Bruun, president and CEO of the Oregon Bankers Association. “We are proud to celebrate these graduates for their commitment to operational excellence and their vital role in strengthening Oregon’s banking industry.”

OBA congratulates the following 2025 graduates and thanks all participating banks, instructors, and volunteers who contributed to the success of this year’s program. The Northwest Bank Operations School will return in 2027.

• Annie Boatwright, Pioneer Trust Bank
• Nichole Boggs, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Katie Field, Pacific West Bank
• Lindsay Fleming, Clackamas County Bank
• Crystal Holmes, Citizens Bank
• Ruth Israel, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Austin Kometz, Citizens Bank
• Josie Miles, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Dona Morales, Evergreen Federal
• Bethany Olsen, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Abel Perez, People's Bank of Commerce
• Dana Porter, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Jennifer Schlaht, Bank of Eastern Oregon
• Sara Schmadeka, Citizens Bank
• Kristin Short, Oregon Pacific Bank
• Hannah Silva, Pioneer Trust Bank
• Kayla Stram; Oregon Pacific Bank
• Noelle Swee, Summit Bank
• Kemble Tsoi, Citizens Bank

SILVERTON, Oregon— Silver Falls State Park is now accepting camping reservations for stays June 18 through Sept. 30. The campground reopened early after a nine-month construction closure.

All tent and RV campsites in addition to cabins 19, 21, 23 and 24 are now reservable online for stays June 18 through Sept. 30. Typically, camping reservations are released six months in advance, but these sites were held back due to planned construction. (Cabins 1-10 remained open through construction.)

Campers will return to a new accessible restroom/shower building with adult changing tables in the B-Loop and new pavement in A-Loop as part of the construction work.

“We’re excited to welcome campers back to Silver Falls State Park. We appreciate their patience as we worked to improve the park experience for everyone,” said Silver Falls Park Manager Chris Gilliand.

In addition to the Silver Falls State Park campsites and cabins reopening, the Smith Creek Village is now accepting reservations again through a new concessionaire. The South Falls Café and 10 Falls Supply Co. are now open daily, and the Bigleaf Market & Grill at Smith Creek Village will open soon. You can find more information about the restaurant, dining area, and lodging including 13 cabins, four group lodges and two ranches at https://visitsilverfalls.com/

June 16, 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

OREGON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION TO OPEN NEW OFFICE IN EASTERN OREGON

Expansion to Baker City Reflects Commitment to Rural Communities

BAKER CITY, Ore. — Oregon Community Foundation is expanding its presence in Eastern Oregon with a new regional office in Baker City, deepening its long-term commitment to Oregon’s rural communities. 

The new office reflects OCF’s belief that regional partnerships matter — especially in communities where distance, geography and lack of resources can be barriers to opportunity. By opening a hub in Eastern Oregon, the foundation aims to better connect with partners, respond more directly to community needs and amplify the region’s strengths. 

“We know that thriving communities begin with local voices and shared vision,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “Opening a regional office in Baker City brings us closer to the people and places we serve in this region so that we can deepen our partnerships together.”

Local Partners Welcome Announcement

The Baker City office is the latest example of OCF’s regional approach. It builds on decades of rural partnerships and collaborative initiatives with fellow funders such as The Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, The Roundhouse Foundation and The Collins Foundation. In Baker City, OCF has worked closely with the Leo Adler Foundation.

“The Leo Adler Foundation board is thrilled Baker City was selected as a hub for their Eastern Oregon outreach,” said Carrie Folkman, Chairperson of the Leo Adler Foundation, which is based in Baker City and supports nonprofits in the region. “We look forward to the partnerships, collaboration and awareness this will bring to our rural communities.” 

For more than 50 years, OCF has helped donors make meaningful contributions to communities across Oregon. The foundation has prioritized funding in rural areas through its Community Grants program and partnered to address shared challenges such as housing, education and economic opportunity. 

“OCF is a remarkable partner for the Oregon nonprofit sector and is one of the largest community foundations in the country,” said Ginger Savage, Executive Director of Crossroads Carnegie Art Center and Board Member of the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon. “I can think of no better place to have this regional office than Baker County. Welcome to Baker City!” 

Hiring and Community Events Coming Soon

As OCF works to finalize a location for the new office in Baker City, the foundation plans to hire staff locally later this year to support outreach and engagement across eight counties in Eastern Oregon. The goal is to create a shared space for community partners and other funders that will continue reflecting the foundation’s statewide mission.

“This is more than an office,” said Maurizio Valerio, Senior Field Coordinator for The Ford Family Foundation. “It is a philanthropy hub — that we have been building towards for many years — with OCF as its anchor, bringing multiple funders under one roof to encourage a deeper level of connection and a more efficient way of serving our community.”

More details, including job opportunities and future community events, will be announced in the coming months. 

About OCF

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org. 

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Just after 6:45 PM, 9-1-1 received a call to an industrial area of the St John’s Neighborhood in North Portland. Initial reports from the caller stated that a large pile of wood products was on fire and that no homes or structures were threatened.

The first arriving Engine and Truck Companies from St John’s arrived within minutes of being dispatched. The Engine officer took command of the incident and reported a large pile of pallets and wood debris with smoke throughout the pile. Crews were very aware of this location as a year ago, in April 2024, a similar fire broke out. With this prior knowledge and experience, the first due Truck immediately set up its aerial ladder for an elevated master stream. This elevated master stream allows firefighters to direct water to the seat of the fire from above.

As additional units arrived, the first Chief Officer took Command. Incident Command then assigned the on-scene resources to the following tasks: establish a water supply, recon the area to ensure no exposures were present, confirm the best access to the different areas of the wood pile, and set up for additional aerial master streams.

Fire crews worked with site personnel, who were called back to the site, to spread out the wood pile and extinguish any hot spots. This was accomplished with the use of some heavy machinery and excavators that were already on site and were operated by the location’s employees. Three engines and three trucks remained on the scene for an additional time after the incident was recalled to ensure extinguishment. There were no injuries reported during this incident and no residents were displaced.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to thank our partners with the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC), Portland Water Bureau, and Port of Portland Terminal 4. At the height of the incident, the following fire resources responded:

                Engines – 7

                Trucks – 3

                Chief Officers – 3

                Rehab Unit – 1  

                PIO – 1

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At about 3:30 this afternoon, multiple emergency crews were dispatched following reports of flames engulfing the back half of a two-story home at Sourthwest Leann Court in Washington County. Neighbors noted heavy smoke, explosions, and rapid fire spread toward nearby properties.

When crews from TVF&R and Hillsboro Fire & Rescue were dispatched, there was a visible column of smoke from the road, and they arrived and found heavy fire. The incident was upgraded from a first alarm to a second alarm to bring additional resources to the scene.

Fire crews quickly established a water supply and began knocking down active flames in the attic and throughout the home. Firefighters conducted a search and confirmed that all occupants of the home had evacuated and were unharmed.

With help from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, neighbors were also evacuated from adjacent homes. Several homes nearby were at risk of also catching fire, requiring firefighters to defend several structures at a time. At one point, a roof across the street from the incident caught fire from floating embers. Crews acted swiftly and suppressed the fire before it was able to cause damage to the interior of the neighboring home.

The initial fire was largely brought under control within an hour, with remaining time spent overhauling the home and salvaging items that could be saved. In total, three people were displaced from the home and are being assisted by the American Red Cross.

Fire investigators responded to the scene and are working to determine the cause.

TVF&R was assisted by Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, American Medical Response, Washington County’s Sheriff’s Office, Portland General Electric, and Northwest Natural.

Simultaneous Barn Fire on Southwest Midway Road

Coinciding with the house fire, dispatch also received a 911 call at 3:39 p.m. reporting a barn fire near the 16600 block of Sourthwest Midway Road in rural Washington County.

Crews found a two-story barn fully involved, with flames threatening nearby trees and vehicles. Water supply was established using water tenders to provide a consistent supply of water to the fire engines.

Crews worked to contain exposures and fought heavy fire conditions. The barn’s roof partially collapsed. The barn was a total loss, and crews transitioned to mop-up work within an hour.

A fire investigator determined the fire was unintentional and caused by a mechanical problem with a vehicle that was inside the barn. Cornelius Fire, Gaston Fire, Lake Oswego Fire, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office assisted on scene.

No injuries were reported from either incident, and no additional structures were compromised.

Both of today’s incidents underscore how quickly fire can spread—especially in dry conditions or when nearby materials are combustible. We encourage all property owners, especially those in suburban and rural areas, to create and maintain defensible space around their homes and outbuildings. Keeping grass trimmed, removing dead vegetation, and spacing out flammable plants and materials can dramatically reduce the risk of fire spread and improve firefighter access and effectiveness during an emergency.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Photos included, videos emailed directly upon request. 
June 14, 2025

Happy Valley Breaks Records at Annual Dumpster Day Event

Happy Valley, OR — The City of Happy Valley proudly hosted its annual Dumpster Day event this weekend, providing residents with an opportunity to dispose of unwanted household items responsibly while promoting environmental sustainability and community involvement. This year’s event saw a record-breaking turnout, with 625 vehicles passing through—making it the most successful Dumpster Day to date.

Thanks to the support of key community partners, the event featured robust recycling, disposal, and donation services. A total of 23 disposal containers were made available by Waste Management, Recology, and Kahut, who generously donated all fuel, trucking, and driver time to support the event.

Metro was on site collecting hazardous household materials, safely gathering:

• 70 pounds of sharps

• 53 pounds of CFL bulbs

• 384 pounds of batteries
  Additionally, Metro distributed 10 free sharps containers to promote safe at-home disposal practices.

Other contributions included:

• Hoodview Disposal & Recycling: Secure shredding of approximately 3,000 pounds of sensitive documents

• Goodwill: Collection of around 400 reusable household items

• Reborn Bikes: Donation of more than 60 used bicycles for repair or parts recovery

• Les Schwab Tires: Recycling support for 300 tires and roughly 40 car batteries

• Scouts of America Troop 611: Collection of 20 U.S. flags for proper and respectful retirement

The event would not have been possible without the dedicated volunteers from the National Charity League (NCL), Boys Team Charity (BTC), the Happy Valley Youth Council, and the U.S. Army National Guard, who spent the day unloading vehicles, directing traffic, and assisting residents. Their commitment and enthusiasm helped ensure a smooth, safe, and welcoming experience for all participants.

“This event demonstrates what can happen when partners, volunteers, and residents unite for a common cause,” said Steve Campbell, Community Safety Director. “Dumpster Day is not only about cleaning up—it's about community pride, environmental stewardship, and teamwork.”

Dumpster Day continues to be one of Happy Valley’s most popular annual events, reflecting the city’s strong commitment to sustainability and civic connection.

For more information about future Dumpster Day events and other environmental programs, please visit www.happyvalleyor.gov.

Donna was located this morning around 5 a.m. 

Deputies with the Marion County Search and Rescue team are assisting the Salem Police department in locating 36 year old Donna Marie. Donna was last seen today at approximately 5:30 p.m. from the Lancaster Drive Walmart store. Donna Marie is developmentally disabled and autistic and unable to care for herself. Donna is described as 5' 10" tall with sandy blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a blue hooded sweat shirt,dark shorts,black and white sneakers,and was carrying a gray back pack. If you see Donna Marie, please call 911. 

Gresham, Ore.— On June 13^th at about 7:30pm, Gresham police officers, assisted by deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, responded to a report of a physical disturbance on NE 162^nd Ave near NE Glisan St.  Witnesses reported one of the people involved in the disturbance was armed.  Officers developed probable cause to arrest the armed suspect for assault and other crimes.  When they attempted to contact him, he fled on foot. 

During the ensuing search, a sheriff’s deputy located the suspect in a nearby neighborhood, and an officer-involved shooting occurred.  During the incident, a Gresham police officer also deployed a 40mm less-lethal projectile.  Officers provided emergency medical care for the suspect until an ambulance arrived.  A handgun was recovered near where the suspect fell. The suspect was pronounced deceased after being taken to a local hospital. 

The deceased is not being identified at this time.  The involved deputy has been placed on critical incident leave, which is standard practice in officer-involved shootings and other critical incidents.  Because of the ongoing investigation, no further information can be released at this time.

The East County Major Crimes Team, a multi-agency team comprised of detectives from the Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Port of Portland Police Department, is investigating the incident.  When the investigation is complete, it will be reviewed by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. 

Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Dylan Lerch at ch@mcso.us">Dylan.Lerch@mcso.us.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – On June 13, 2025, at 1:22 p.m., deputies from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash on Scenic Drive in Albany.

Upon arrival, deputies located a black 2010 Subaru Forester that had left the roadway and traveled down a steep embankment before colliding with a tree. The vehicle’s sole occupant, 36-year-old Ethan Ward Glaser of Albany, was pronounced deceased at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

A preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling southbound on Scenic Drive when, for reasons yet to be determined, the driver lost control and exited the roadway. There were no signs of additional passengers or other vehicles involved.

Scenic Drive between Pineview Drive and Valley View Drive was closed for approximately three hours while investigators processed the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Benton County Crash Team.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Ethan and would like to thank the Albany Fire Department, Albany Police Department, and Corvallis Police Department for their assistance.

If you have any additional information or witnessed the crash, please contact BCSO at BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or their tip line at 541-753-8477, re: case #2025-1500.
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SALEM, Ore. — Starting next week with Liberty Street NE, City of Salem Public Works will begin strengthening four area bridges using funds from the voter-approved 2022 Safety and Livability Bond.

Beginning June 16 and continuing through November, workers will strengthen the bridges to allow heavier trucks to safely pass over local waterways. These bridges are:

• Liberty Street NE over Mill Creek
• 17^th Street NE over Mill Creek
• 15th Street NE over Mill Creek
• Mission Street SE over Pringle Creek

Liberty Street NE over Mill Creek will be the first bridge under construction. The contractor will close the southbound lane to allow for equipment and materials staging to perform the work. Traffic Alerts and other information will be released as other projects begin.

Drivers and pedestrian should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic control signage. There will be lane shifting on 17th Street NE and Mission Street SE during construction, single lane closure on Liberty Street NE during construction, and street closure on 15th Street NE.

Site specific information for each bridge can be found at https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/shaping-salem-s-future/safety-and-livability-bond.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem: https://public-construction-salem.hub.arcgis.com/

For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or service@cityofsalem.net.

The Centennial School District Governing Board will convene for a Regular Business Meeting and Budget Hearing on Wednesday June 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. 

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

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

If you are interested in joining the meeting, please click on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84627197937?pwd=Zkh1VVZqRS8vUG16K0lkNWdERVZUUT09
Passcode:292746

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

Webinar ID: 846 2719 7937
Passcode: 292746

NOTE: An Executive Session will take place during the business meeting, on June 18th at approximately 7:30 p.m. The executive session will be held pursuant to (ORS 192.660(2)(i) - To review and evaluate the employment - related performance of the chief executive officer, of the public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request an open hearing.

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office.  Authorized parties may join the meeting virtually, by clicking the link below.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82242306021?pwd=BQDnVLFK2CRGg81EpkG5inlsoP2OEw.IDtRehfnOQiyUlHC
Passcode:407264

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

HILLSBORO, Ore- On June 13, 2025, Jack Patrick Hauser, age 47, pleaded guilty to trafficking in persons and failure to report as a sex offender. Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 24 months in prison. Deputy District Attorney Christina Luedtke prosecuted this case.
 

The victim in this case is a 26-year-old man with intellectual disabilities. After the death of the victim’s mother, the defendant saw an opportunity to take advantage of the victim’s circumstances. Over the course of several years, Mr. Hauser began exercising control over all aspects of the victim’s life. He required him to live in unsanitary and unsafe conditions in the backyard of the defendant’s residence in Vernonia. Beginning in 2023 until approximately August 2024, he took the victim to the Hillsboro Esplanade shopping center daily, where the victim was required to sell various small items to motorists, in all sorts of extreme weather conditions, utilizing a cardboard sign. The defendant would then demand and retain the majority of the proceeds.
 

Concerned community members attempted to intervene, but the defendant repeatedly thwarted those efforts. Law enforcement was eventually alerted and executed search warrants on the defendant’s home and car. He had the victim’s identification, debit card, and bank slips. Investigators also documented the unsanitary and inadequate space where the victim had been living. Hillsboro police determined the defendant had moved to his parents’ home in Hillsboro without notifying law enforcement, which was a violation of his sex offender registration requirements. The defendant had been convicted of third-degree statutory rape in 2002.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the Hillsboro Police Department for their extensive investigation in this case and the community members who intervened to protect this vulnerable victim. 
 

We are also dedicated to combating all types of human trafficking in our area. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1, your local law enforcement agency, or report it to the Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.
 

Mr. Hauser will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence. 

On June 3, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced Daniel Stuebgen (54-year-old) to 495 months (41.25 years) in prison for repeated sexual abuse of a 12-year-old child, who volunteered at Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides (Pacific City) and Happy Trails Feed & Tack (Lincoln City) in 2023, two businesses owned by Stuebgen and his ex-wife, Teresa Stuebgen.

Judge Bachart sentenced Stuebgen to a total of 495 months at the Department of Corrections for the convictions of 4 counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, 3 counts of Rape in the Second Degree, 2 counts of Sodomy in the Second Degree, and 4 counts of Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct, all ORS 137.700 Measure 11 offenses.

On May 1, 2025, after a five-day trial, Stuebgen was found guilty by a 12-person Lincoln County jury of nine separate incidents of child sexual abuse (five sexual assaults and four photographs of child sexual abuse material). This case began in August 2023 when the Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) received a tip from the Child Abuse Hotline, which raised concerns regarding a sexual relationship between Stuebgen and a child volunteer at Happy Trails Feed & Tack. On August 11, 2023, LCPD and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) responded and began investigating the allegations. While the investigation was pending, Stuebgen was advised by LCPD to not have any contact with the child, however, approximately a month later, the child was reported as a runaway and located at Happy Trails Feed & Tack, Stuebgen’s place of business and residence. Evidence demonstrated that Stuebgen was actively trying to conceal the child from police and had assisted the child in running away.

At sentencing, Judge Bachart stated, “There is no sentence that I am going to impose today that is going to be proportionate to the harm that your actions inflicted on the victim in this case…This was a vulnerable child, and you exploited those vulnerabilities for a sexual purpose. You were able to get away with it for a very long time. I don’t know how long this would have gone on if she hadn’t found the courage to report. Even when you knew the investigation was pending, you still continued to pursue her.” Stuebgen declined to make any statement at sentencing.

This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace and investigated by Detective Bud Lane, LCPD. The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detective Lane for his relentless commitment to investigating crimes against children to ensure justice, accountability, and community safety. Detective Lane brings decades of experience in sexual abuse investigations that was vital to a successful prosecution. The District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank the Lincoln City Police Department for prioritizing sexual abuse investigations to not only end abuse, but to protect vulnerable populations from predators in our community. 

During this month of appreciation for fathers, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the critical role fathers play in a child’s physical, emotional and social development. ODHS is working to better support fathers involved in the child welfare system through two programs that provide peer mentorship, parenting skills and supports for incarcerated fathers, as well as a Father’s Advisory Board that provides regular input to ODHS Child Welfare leadership and frontline workers.

The two programs focus on peer mentorship and advocacy to help fathers navigate the system and reconnect with their children. Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) runs the Incarcerated Fathers Program serving African American men during incarceration and post-release. Fathers receive skill building classes to strengthen their parenting skills and build strong relationships with their children. ODHS also partners with Morrison Child and Family Services to connect fathers with open child welfare cases to peer mentors for support and encouragement.

ODHS is investing in these programs because of the expressed need for services and training that do a better job of locating and engaging fathers, and keeping fathers connected to their children after a child welfare intervention. When children enter the child welfare system, fathers are often sidelined or overlooked due to negative perceptions about their interest or capacity to be involved in their children’s lives. National studies show that caseworker bias against fathers can prevent equal outreach to fathers after a child welfare intervention. Yet national child welfare experts say father-inclusive practices in child welfare are essential to child safety and well-being and can minimize the amount of time children are separated from their family. Children with involved fathers are more likely to do well in school, have high self-esteem and avoid high risk behaviors, according to a 2024 report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Head Start Bureau. 

Negative bias toward fathers is particularly strong if fathers are in recovery or have been/are currently incarcerated. This, in addition to racism and disproportionate numbers of Black, American Indian and Alaska Native children in the foster care system add to the challenges facing fathers who want to stay connected to their children.

“Fathers are vital to a child’s well-being, and it is our job to engage fathers and invite them into the process of reunifying their families. We do that through concerted efforts that show respect and value for the role fathers play as a nurturers and resources for their children,” said ODHS Child Welfare Director Aprille-Flint Gerner. “We are grateful to our community partners for leading culturally responsive programs that support fathers for long-term success.”

After a child welfare case is opened, caseworkers begin working with parents to establish a plan for a variety of services, supports and a plan for reunifying the family when a child has been removed from the home due to safety issues. When parents are separated, do not live together, or a father is incarcerated or in recovery, the mother is the primary contact for child welfare. The perspective of the father is often absent in discussions related to their children, and most resources and supports are designed with the assumption that mothers are the primary caregivers. These assumptions can keep fathers from having a voice in critical decisions related to child welfare cases, visitation, and input into case planning to prepare for the child’s return to their family.

Services and programs for fathers are also minimal compared to those available for mothers. Statewide, there are 250 residential treatment beds for mothers in substance use disorder treatment to be with their children while in treatment. For fathers, there are just 10 beds available through the OnTrack Rogue Valley Dad’s Program in Medford. ODHS awarded OnTrack a grant in 2022 to renovate the Cobblestone Village Complex in Medford to add six more beds for fathers in treatment, among other design upgrades and residential facilities to serve families. The renovated complex is due to open in 2026.

The ODHS Father’s Advisory Board members, many of whom work as peer mentors through Morrison Child and Family Services, are making a difference by advocating for the perspective of fathers in ODHS caseworker trainings, and by regularly advising ODHS Child Welfare staff and leadership in Multnomah County.

One peer mentor and Father’s Advisory Board member stated, “Child welfare programs have made progress, but we still need more active outreach and connection with dads. Sometimes dads are informed about a decision, not consulted as an equal parent. The system is confusing and can be really discouraging for fathers who feel judged as deadbeat dads,” he said. “But as advocates, we are here to give other dads hope and let them know, you can do this, you can be there for your kids. It is about making life better for the kids. If I can do it, you can do it.”

###

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

Resources

Programs for incarcerated fathers or fathers involved with child welfare

• Videos about Self Enhancement Inc.’s Incarcerated Fathers Program and Fatherhood Engagement Program
• Morrison Family Services Parent Mentor Program
• OnTrack Rogue Valley Dad’s Program

Other community programs for fathers

• Squires Empowering Young Dads
• Healthy Birth Initiatives Father Involvement Program
• 4Fathers Program (mentoring, support groups, job readiness)

On Monday, June 9, 2025, at around 10:40 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of an assault at a home near SW Bridle Hills Drive and SW 161st Drive in Beaverton. During the investigation, deputies learned that an unidentified man entered the victim’s home and assaulted her, both physically and sexually. The woman did not recognize the assailant, as he took steps to conceal his identity and fled the home prior to deputies being called.

Deputies conducted an extensive search for the suspect, which included using K9s and drones, but did not find anyone. Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit were called out to investigate and learned that the victim had been receiving threats from Luis Alberto Garcia, age 31, of Cornelius. Garcia did not match the physical description of the suspect in this case, and detectives confirmed his whereabouts during the attack.

Although Garcia was not the person who carried out the assault, investigators believe that Garcia is connected to the incident. On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, investigators served a search warrant at a home in Cornelius and arrested Garcia on unrelated charges. The investigation is ongoing, and Garcia may face additional charges related to this incident.

At this time, investigators believe this was a targeted attack, and a description of the suspect is not being released to the public.

Detectives are asking area residents to check their surveillance cameras for activity on 6/9/25 from 10:00 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. and contact the Sheriff’s Office so investigators can collect the footage. Investigators would also like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious during that time frame.

Additionally, detectives are seeking information on Garcia and his connection to this event. Anyone with information about Garcia is asked to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111, referencing case number 50-25-8016.

The release of Garcia’s booking photo is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity.

The Gervais School District #1 School Board, Gervais, Oregon, will convene in a Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office Conference via ZOOM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.  The agenda for the Regular Session meeting includes, but is not limited to, the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

• Adopting the 2025-2026 Budget 
• Making Appropriation for the 2025-2026 Budget
• Imposing & Categorizing the Tax
• Appropriation Transfer for 2024-2025 Budget
• Regular Sessions Meetings Calendar for 2025-2026
• Certification of Elections-Marion County
• FCA Performance Review
• MIDCO Contract & MOU
• Approve Classified Bargaining Agreement 2025-2027

Discussion Items:     

• Bond Project Update
• Board Self-Evaluation Timeline
• Board Training in August

You are invited to a Zoom webinar!

When: Jun 18, 2025 06:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Topic:  Gervais School District #1 Board of Directors Budget and Regular Session

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81617884597?pwd=v89pJwEx3hLBFhgm4s0X4LMex6ayyF.1

Passcode:157495

Phone one-tap:

+17193594580,,81617884597#,,,,157495# US

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Join via audio:

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Webinar ID: 816 1788 4597

 Passcode: 157495

 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kt2x6fGPv

SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet virtually in executive session on Monday, June 16 at 11:15 a.m. to consider employment of the Department of State Lands Director, as authorized by ORS 192.660(2)(a).

During a future meeting open to the public, the Land Board will consider appointing a Director and accept comment. This meeting will be scheduled and noticed at a later date.
 

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

ROWENA, Ore. – Firefighters working on the Rowena Fire overnight, although continuing to be challenged by the wind, were able to push forward on progress around the town of Rowena and along Highway 30. Sustained winds of 20-30 miles per hour were observed across the fire, however little fire growth was seen. An Infrared (IR) flight was ordered and placed the fire around 3,831 acres. More accurate mapping will be available as firefighters continue to work along the fire line and gather data.

Goals for today are centered around holding the fire in its current footprint, limiting growth and protecting homes and natural resources. Aircraft will continue to remain a critical asset on the fire, and more have been ordered. With more resources arriving to the incident, firefighters will be able to deploy more direct tactics, working at the fire’s edge to create a control line and hold the fire. As this work progresses, containment will increase.

Structural resources will continue to work around homes near the fire’s perimeter, mopping up areas that have seen fire. Firefighters will also be removing hazardous trees to increase safety in the area while work is ongoing and ahead of any residents returning. Firefighters are working as quickly and safely as possible with current evacuations in mind, as well as future fire potential across the state.

“It’s very early in fire season for us to be dealing with a large, fast-moving fire like the Rowena Fire, and deploying one of our incident management teams,” Craig Pettinger, ODF Team 2 Deputy IC said. “It doesn’t bode well for what’s ahead of us knowing we already expect an active fire season. We have a lot of fire season ahead of us, and long seasons take a toll on our firefighters and communities across the state.”

Temperatures will be slightly cooler today in the 70s, and relative humidity will be higher, predicted to reach the mid-30s, meaning more moisture will be in the air. These conditions may help to naturally lower the intensity of the fire behavior, however winds will remain steady and create smoky conditions.

A community meeting will be held tonight at 7 p.m. at The Dalles High School auditorium, 220 E 10th St The Dalles, Oregon 97058, to provide a current fire update to the public. A recording of the meeting will be later posted on YouTube and Facebook for those who can’t attend in person.

Level 1, 2 and 3 evacuations remain in effect under the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office’s direction. You can search for specific addresses here: https://perimetermap.com/wascocounty-or. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://perimetermap.com/wascocounty-or

The Red Cross has opened a shelter at The Dalles Middle School at 1100 East 12th Street. Livestock and horses can be taken to the Wasco County Fairgrounds at 81849 Fairgrounds Road.

I-84 remains open, however firefighters are continuing to work near the roadway; be aware of crews when driving through the area.

Closures: Due to the fires, Mayer State Park is closed to the public. More information is available here: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=117. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=117

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A “TFR” is in place at an altitude from the surface up to and including 6500 feet, daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Flying a drone near or around a wildfire compromises the safety of pilots and interferes with firefighting efforts.

A daily media availability will occur at Mayer State Park East at 1p.m. until further notice. Please RSVP to imt2.fireinfo@odf.oregon.gov or call Natalie Weber at 541-621-4005 .

Vancouver, Wash. – The Parks and Nature division of Clark County Public Works is removing some of the play equipment at Lewisville Regional Park. Older play equipment located in several areas of the park no longer meets current safety standards. Play equipment near the beach area south of the softball fields and equipment near the Alder shelter will not be removed.

Later this year, Parks and Nature will begin a process to update the park plan for Lewisville Regional Park. This process will identify a location for a new play area. Opportunities for input on the park plan update will be announced at a later date.

Removal of the older play equipment is scheduled to begin in late June and is expected to be completed by early July. Visitors may encounter short traffic delays and construction noise during the removal process. Visitors are reminded to stay out of work zones. Work is weather-dependent, and the schedule is subject to change. For more information, contact Park and Trails Planner Lynde Wallick at lynde.wallick@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5882.

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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SALEM, Ore. — Road work on Lone Oak Road SE will include weekday lane closures and one weekend total road closure June 21-22.

Starting June 9, the southbound lane of Lone Oak Road SE is closed between Kuebler Boulevard SE and Khartoum Street SE weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Additionally, Lone Oak Road SE will be closed between Kuebler Boulevard SE and Khartoum Street SE June 21-22 for the installation of a gas line. Traffic will be detoured to Liberty Road S and then Holder Lane SE.  

These closures will allow for NW Natural Gas to install a new high-pressure regulator. This work is projected to be completed by the end of August. 

Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage and watch for workers in the area.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem: https://public-construction-salem.hub.arcgis.com/

For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or service@cityofsalem.net.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement in response to Providence's announcement that it is laying off 600 workers systemwide. 

"Providence’s announcement of layoffs, including clinic staff in Seaside, OR, continues the harmful disinvestment in rural healthcare in Oregon. Providence’s misguided reduction in nursing staff once again proves its priorities need to be reexamined. Layoffs lead to reduced quality of care, short staffing, unsafe patient loads, and a deterioration of care. At a time of unprecedented attacks on our healthcare system from the federal government—especially for rural Oregonians—Providence should be working to help solve the problem, not inflaming it.

Making matters worse is Providence’s public statement which blames the layoffs, in part, on Oregon’s historic safe staffing law.

Let’s be clear: Providence was part of the coalition that passed hospital nurse safe staffing legislation in Oregon in 2023. The law mandates safer nurse-to-patient ratios to address a crisis that led to nurse burnout, unsafe patient loads, and preventable harm across Oregon. Providence blaming a law which does not apply to clinics as the reason for its layoffs is not only nonsensical and disingenuous; it is dangerous.

Providence is a $30 billion corporation which pays its top executives 7 and 8 figure salaries and has ample resources to meet safe staffing standards. Their decision to reduce frontline caregivers in rural Oregon while protecting executive salaries and profits is a deliberate choice, not a financial necessity. Providence patients and our rural communities deserve better. Our caregivers deserve better. 

ONA calls on Providence to reverse these harmful layoffs, fully comply with safe staffing standards, and engage in good-faith dialogue with their workers to build a healthcare system that puts care—not cost-cutting or profits—at its center."

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Vernon “Bud” Robertson has been located in Washington by the Washington State Patrol. Bud is safe and will be reunited with family members soon.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Washington State Patrol and the community for their assistance in locating Bud. 

Original Release: Deputies Ask for Assistance in Locating a Missing Person 

On Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 8:36 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a missing person near the 20000 block of SW Turin Court in Beaverton.

The caller reported that 75-year-old Vernon “Bud” Robertson left his home around 10:15 a.m. on June 12th in a gray 2020 Honda CR-V with license plate 779 MGL. Bud’s clothing description is unknown, but he commonly wears a blue button-up shirt, blue jeans, a baseball cap, and brown leather shoes. Bud is 5'9” tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs. He has brown eyes and gray hair.

Bud does not carry a cell phone and may appear lost or disoriented due to a cognitive impairment.

Deputies are asking anyone with information on Bud’s whereabouts to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. 

Drivers advised to use public transit, bikes or ride share alternatives to travel to and from the event.

Tichner Drive remains closed during the event.

PORTLAND, OR – Planning to attend the sneak peek of the Washington Park reservoir on Saturday, June 14? Plan ahead. Road closures in the area and limited parking will make visits easiest by bus, train, shuttle and bike.

The SW Tichner Drive entrance to Washington Park remains closed to motor vehicle traffic between W Burnside and SW Kingston Ave due to a landslide. This means there will be heavier than usual traffic at the Park Place entrance to the event.

Everyone is encouraged to travel by public transit, bike or rideshare. Here are the easiest options:

•  TriMet Trip Option #1: MAX + Free Shuttle Loop. Hop on the MAX Red or Blue Line and ride to Washington Park Station. From there, the Washington Park Free Shuttle takes you right to the Oregon Holocaust Memorial stop, just steps from the celebration at the Reservoir. Pro tip: Park for free at a TriMet Park & Ride like Sunset Transit Center (600+ free parking spots), then ride one stop on MAX to Washington Park Station.
•  TriMet Trip Option #2: MAX + Trail Walk. Take the MAX to Goose Hollow and walk the Madison Street Trail into Washington Park. It’s a peaceful, 20-minute uphill walk that leads straight to the Reservoir site.
•  TriMet Trip Option #3: Direct Bus from Downtown. Ride TriMet Line 63 from Pioneer Courthouse Square for a direct trip to the park. Buses drop off at the Park Place Entrance and the International Rose Test Garden/Portland Japanese Garden, and they depart hourly from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• TriMet Trip Option #4: Bus + Trail Walk. Catch Lines 15 or 20 to NW 23rd & Burnside, then enjoy a one mile walk through the Park’s winding paths to the Reservoir. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

The public is invited to join the City of Portland’s Public Works Service Area as we unveil the yearslong restoration of the Washington Park Reservoir. This once-in-a-generation project provides a seismically resilient water supply for 360,000 westside water users and a beautiful new reflecting pool and plaza for the entire community to enjoy.

Learn about project benefits from elected officials and stay for tours of the new plaza’s educational elements and historic features. Tours are available to members of the public and the media. Visitors are invited to walk the grounds and explore the city’s newest attraction before it is officially open to the public.

When:             Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
 

Where:            Washington Park Upper Reflecting Pool and Main Plaza

More details about the celebration are available on our website here: Washington Park Reservoir Sneak Peek | Portland.gov

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 pipes. 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, and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, and the Portland Water Bureau, maintaining over $60 billion in assets, a $2 billion annual budget, and 2,500 employees. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

Hines, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management will host a walk-up adoption event June 25–27 at the Oregon Wild Horse Corral Facility, offering the unique opportunity to give a wild horse a new home.

This event features 10 yearlings from the South Steens Herd Management Area and 15 geldings, all five years old or younger, from the Murderer’s Creek Wild Horse Territory. It marks the first in-person chance to adopt these horses since they were gathered in the summer and fall of 2024.

Adopter registration and animal viewing will take place Wednesday, June 25, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adoption begins at 9 a.m. Thursday and Friday, June 26 and 27, and will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis for registered, approved adopters. To streamline the process, potential adopters are encouraged to apply in advance at wildhorsesonline.blm.gov/HowToGuide or by emailing their application to cpresley@blm.gov before June 25.

“We encourage anyone who loves horses to come out and consider adoption,” said Kayce Faulkner, Facility Manager. “These mustangs are looking for safe, caring homes. They’re tough, smart, full of heart. And they make great partners whether you’re working, riding, or just spending time with them.”

South Steens horses are often recognized for their distinctive coloring and above-average conformation, while Murderer’s Creek horses tend to be bay, black, or brown with a smaller saddle-horse build. The adoption fee is $125. The Oregon Wild Horse Corral Facility is located at 26755 US-20 in Hines.

The Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Program protects and manages wild horses and burros on public lands across the western United States. Through gathers, adoption, and partnerships, the program works to maintain healthy herds and healthy rangelands, ensuring these iconic animals continue to thrive for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.blm.gov/or/resources/whb/index.php.

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, the most of any Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In Fiscal Year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports yesterday, June 12, 2025, at 7:32 p.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a crash at the intersection of Lacomb Drive and Bond Road.  An additional caller stated power lines were on top of the vehicles.

Deputies’ investigation showed Marion Johnson, 69, from Albany was driving a black Chevrolet Tahoe northbound on Bond Road when he approached the stop sign.  Johnson had his wife, Valda Johnson, 67, as a passenger.  When Johnson proceeded through the stop sign his vehicle was struck by a grey 2014 Dodge Ram pickup driven eastbound by Cole Russell Allen, 32, from Lebanon. Cole Russell Allen was the only occupant in the Dodge Ram pickup.  When deputies and fire personnel from the Lebanon Fire Department arrived, they had power disconnected and extricated the Johnson's from the vehicle.

Marion Johnson suffered life-threatening injuries and died at the scene.  Valda Johnson sustained non-life-threatening, but serious injuries and was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis by ambulance.

Deputies interviewed witnesses who reported Allen was driving at a high rate of speed moments before the crash.  Deputies also found through their investigation Allen was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Allen suffered minor injuries and was taken to jail where he was charged with Manslaughter II, Assault III, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) and Reckless Driving.

The crash caused both power and internet outages in the area.

Linn County Deputies were assisted by the Lebanon Fire Department, the Linn County Road Department and Pacific Power.

Anyone with information on the crash or Allen’s driving of the Dodge Ram pickup yesterday, please contact Detective Scott Tennant at (541) 967-3950.

At approximately 7:32 PM on June 12, Lebanon Fire District was dispatched to a motor vehicle collision in the 39000 block of Lacomb Drive. Upon arrival, crews found two vehicles with significant damage, one of which was on its roof with occupants trapped inside.

Downed power lines were draped across both vehicles, creating a hazardous scene and igniting a small brush fire that was initially inaccessible. Firefighters were unable to begin rescue efforts until power was confirmed to be shut off by utility personnel.

Once the area was deemed safe, crews worked rapidly to simultaneously extricate the victims and suppress the brush fire. One patient was airlifted to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.

Power was restored to the area around 3:00 AM. 

Zainab Alothman has been located in Multnomah County and is safe.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for all the community support. 

Investigators learned that Zainab boarded public transit in Beaverton and has been seen on surveillance cameras in multiple areas across the Portland Metro Area. If encountered in public, she may appear disoriented or lost.

Community members are encouraged to immediately contact law enforcement with information regarding Zainab's whereabouts through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. 

Investigators assisting with locating Zainab are releasing updated information. A community member most recently saw Zainab on SW 135th Avenue in Tigard, near SW Scholls Ferry Road, at about 07:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10th.

The included picture is the most recent photo of Zainab, showing the clothing she was wearing when she went missing.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking the community to review home security video if you live near SW 135th Avenue and SW Scholls Ferry Road, looking for Zainab between 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10th, and Wednesday, June 11th.

If you have information regarding the whereabouts of Zainab Alothman, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 503-629-0111. 

Original Media Release: June 10th, 2025

Deputies Ask for Assistance in Locating a Missing Person 

On Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:42 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a missing person near SW 150th Avenue and SW Sophia Lane in Tigard.

The caller reported that 47-year-old Zainab Alothman had not returned from her daily walk. Zainab left her home around 11:00 a.m. wearing a green shirt, a black jacket, gray pants, and black shoes. She is 5'6” tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs with brown eyes and brown hair.

Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate Zainab. She does not carry a cell phone, is not known to ride public transportation, and may appear lost or disoriented.

Deputies are asking anyone with information on Zainab's whereabouts to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. If you live in the area, please review any security camera footage for Zainab. 

The Washougal School District is accepting applications to fill a position on the Washougal School Board of Directors. The successful applicant will serve Director District 5, succeeding Chuck Carpenter, who will resign from the board on June 30, 2025. 

Applicants must be a registered voter and reside within District 5. This appointment will be in place through the November 2025 election. 

School Board members are responsible for policy and governance of the Washougal School District and for providing direction to the superintendent.

The application deadline is July 24, 2025. For more information about the position, residency requirements, and application process, please contact Kori Kelly, (360) 954-3014 or i.kelly@washougalsd.org" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">kori.kelly@washougalsd.org. Interested applicants can apply online through the district website. Applicants who are not able to use an online application can request one from Kori Kelly. 

Director District 5 includes areas south of Blair road on both sides of the Washougal River and stretches to the east across Mt. Norway.  Citizens interested in applying can find a map of the board director zones on the district website at www.washougal.k12.wa.us.