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PRESS RELEASE

A25-10969

SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

MAY 9, 2025

At 1536 hours of May 9, 2025, Cowlitz 911 received a report of a shooting at a residence in the 1800 block of West Side Hwy in Kelso, Washington.  Deputies responded to the scene and learned that three people associated with the residence had been shot.  A fourth subject was later contacted after arriving at St John Medical Center with a gunshot wound.  That person, a juvenile male, was determined to be a suspect in this incident. All injured parties are expected to survive.

The involved parties are known to each other, and this incident appears to be related to a domestic relationship.  Deputies have learned that while a child exchange took place, a group of subjects that arrived in a vehicle had a dispute with subjects at this residence, and shots were fired.

Detectives obtained a search warrant to process the crime scene and are in contact with multiple subjects who were involved in this incident.  The juvenile suspect received medical treatment at St John Medical Center and was then booked into Cowlitz County Juvenile Detention on three counts of Assault 1^st Degree and Drive-By Shooting.

This investigation is ongoing – no further details are available for release at this time.

The Sheriff’s Office requests anyone with information about this incident to call 360-577-3092, reference case A25-10969.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

On May 8th, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department received a report of inappropriate communications between a Lincoln County School District school bus driver and a Taft 7-12 student. An investigation began immediately and steps were taken to ensure the driver had no more contact with students.

On May 9th, Josiah Lafrenz (21) of Lincoln City was arrested and charged with Luring a Minor and 2nd Degree Online Sex Corruption of a Child. He was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail and is awaiting his arraignment on Monday, May 12th.

The LCPD notified the Lincoln County School District of the investigation and arrest. Due to the potential for additional child victims, the LCPD is urging anyone with information regarding this investigation or similar circumstances to call us at (541) 994-3636 and reference case #25-5594.

As always, the LCPD encourages parents to monitor children’s cellular communications and internet usage, as well as educate them about the dangers posed by the strangers with whom they interact.

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. 

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236. The public and guests will join virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89843848373?pwd=Sm53eGJPbUJKTjFFSG54bzlIWFBRZz09
Passcode:625036

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

Webinar ID: 898 4384 8373
Passcode: 625036

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

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

May 9, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Emigrant Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Emigrant in Jackson County.

OHA issued the advisory on May 1 due to the photo and satellite imagery evidence of potentially-toxin producing cyanobacteria near areas of high recreational use.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Emigrant Lake are below recreational guideline values.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can shift quickly. They can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Some cyanobacteria move up and down in the water depending on light and nutrients, so what’s visible on the surface can change throughout the day. Wind and water movement can also affect where the bloom appears.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

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

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

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants to fill two positions on the Clark County Development and Engineering Advisory Board, DEAB.

The positions are for the following:

• Representative of Southwest Washington Contractor’s Association
• Professional associated with Commercial/Industrial Development Industry

Application deadline for the Contractor’s Association opening is 5 pm July 25, and the deadline for the commercial/industrial opening is 5 pm Monday, June 30.

Members shall be appointed or reappointed to three-year terms. Members are eligible for reappointment after their terms expire.

The advisory board reviews policy and county code changes and works on process improvement and fees with the Community Development and Public Works departments. The board’s recommendations are routinely forwarded to the Clark County Council for use by final decision makers.

The board consists of three private-sector planners or engineers; one public-sector planner or engineer; one construction contractor; one land developer; one Building Industry Association representative; one professional associated with commercial or industrial development; and two professionals associated with development.

The Development and Engineering Advisory Board, commonly referred to as DEAB, typically meets at 2 pm the first Thursday of the month in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

Anyone interested should submit a letter of interest and résumé to
Victoria Abram, Program Coordinator, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810. Applications can also be emailed to ia.abram@clark.wa.gov">victoria.abram@clark.wa.gov.  

More information, including meeting agendas and minutes, is available at www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/development-and-engineering-advisory-board.

DATE: Monday, May 12, 2025

TIME: 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION: via Zoom (link on HSD website)

POLICE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on May 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 20, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
    Presented by Jennifer Levario

    a) Gregory Baldwin; DPSST No. 23593
        Basic Police Certification

    b) Todd Brightbill; DPSST No. 30976
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory Police Certifications

    c) Brian Bryson; DPSST No. 33308
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory Police, and Basic Corrections Certification

    d) Dexter Dixon; DPSST No. 30571
        Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Police Certifications

    e) Garrick Garland; DPSST No. 32091
        Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Police Certifications

    f) Dina Kashuba; DPSST No. 58371
        Basic Police Certification

    g) Hannah Ramsdell; DPSST No. 62592
        Basic Police Certification

    h) Larry Seymore; DPSST No. 41243
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory, Management, and Executive Police Certifications

4. Randy Clark; DPSST No. 23388; Central Point Police Department
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Almedina Javor; DPSST No. 61328; Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Jeffrey Kienlen; DPSST No. 30358; The Dalles Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Alan Lynn; DPSST No. 31664; Albany Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

8. Kent van der Kamp; DPSST No. 44640; Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Kathy McAlpine and Cindy Park

9. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

10. Agency Updates

11. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – August 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

Deschutes County, Ore. 9 May 2025- On Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 8:52 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 156, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Caravan, operated by Anthony Buddrick Torres (25) of La Pine, crossed the centerline and struck a northbound Kenworth commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Florentino Cruz Aguilar (52) of Williams (CA), head-on. The collision caused both vehicles to become fully engulfed in flames and required local fire crews efforts to extinguish the fires.

The operator of the Dodge (Torres) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Kenworth (Cruz Aguilar) suffered reportedly minor injuries and was transported to an area medical center.

The highway was impacted for an extended period of time during the investigation and cleanup of the vehicles. The operator of the Dodge had been reported as suicidal prior to the crash and the crash is suspected to have been intentional.

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Sunriver Fire, Alfalfa Fire, La Pine Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Almost 45 years ago, in the early morning hours of July 18, 1980, Oregon State Police responded to a report of a deceased, unidentified male along Interstate 5 near Woodburn. A homicide investigation was opened and while extensive efforts were made to identify the victim, he remained a John Doe until April 2025.
 

In cooperation with the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office and the Orange County (California) Sheriff’s Department, OSP’s Cold Case Unit was able to positively identify the victim as Larry Eugene Parks. Parks was 30 years old at the time of his death and a Vietnam veteran. His family had lost contact with him in 1979, and was last seen in Pensacola, Florida. Until his identification last month, the circumstances of his disappearance were unknown to the Parks family.
 

The discovery of Parks’ body came a day after the body of Michael O’Fallon was found along I-5 near the Talbot exit, also in Marion County. Due to similarities in the evidence, investigators at the time suspected the two murders were related. Unfortunately, both investigations went cold as investigative leads dried up.
 

In 1983, Randy Kraft was arrested in Orange County, California, for murder. Kraft was ultimately convicted of 16 murders in California, although he’s suspected of committing more than 60 murders across the West Coast and Michigan. During Kraft’s trial and sentencing, evidence from the O’Fallon and Parks murders was transferred to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office to be used in court. The evidence remained in Orange County until 2024.
 

In January 2024, an investigator from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department reached out to the Oregon State Police Cold Case Unit regarding evidence related to the John Doe (Parks) case from 1980 and offered to help identify the remains using Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy.  John Doe’s blood sample was sent to Parabon Nanolabs and a genetic profile was developed. Investigators were able to use this information to locate possible family members. The family members submitted DNA samples for comparison which led to the positive identification of John Doe as Larry Parks.   

With Parks' identity confirmed, investigators are now working to bring resolution to the 45-year-old case.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Cold Case Unit

The Cold Case Unit consists of investigators in OSP’s Criminal Investigation Division dedicated to resolving the agency’s unsolved homicide, missing persons, unidentified human remains, and suspicious death investigations. The unit is maximizing the use of forensic analysis and genetic genealogy in multiple cases. The unit has made tangible progress on cases as old as 50 years and is actively investigating 37 cold cases. 

DALLAS (OR) – Tara Leeann Griffin (formerly Davies), of Dallas, has been convicted of Assault in the First Degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree involving an infant child under her care. Griffin, 41, was found guilty by Polk County Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park after a four day trial to the court held in April.

Griffin was previously found guilty of these same charges in 2011 by a Polk County jury and sentenced to serve ten years in prison. However, that conviction was overturned by recent Supreme Court decisions finding that non-unanimous jury verdicts are unconstitutional and granting her a new trial. In her first trial, Griffin was convicted by an 11-1 vote of the jury.

In commenting on the verdict and why his office sought a second trial, Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton stated:

“It was important that the integrity and justice of the first trial outcome be maintained, while fully respecting the due process rights of the defendant as our appellate courts envision.”

The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Aaron Felton and investigated by the Dallas Police Department. The first prosecution was overseen by the Oregon Department of Justice. Ms. Griffin will be sentenced on May 13.

Ridgefield School District is inviting families, staff, students, and community members to participate in shaping the district’s future by attending one of several upcoming Strategic Planning Launch Sessions.
 

The sessions are the first step in developing a new district Strategic Plan, and will focus on gathering community input on Ridgefield’s vision, mission, core values, and guiding principles. The feedback received will play a key role in guiding the Strategic Planning process scheduled for Fall 2025.
 

“We are excited to launch this process and look forward to hearing from our community,” said Dr. Jenny Rodriquez, Superintendent of Ridgefield School District. “Your voice is critical in helping us shape a shared vision for the future of Ridgefield schools.”
 

The planning sessions are free and open to the public. Each session will follow the same format, so participants are encouraged to attend the one that best fits their schedule. Meetings will last approximately two hours, with both morning and evening options available to increase community access.

Strategic Planning Launch Session Schedule:

• Thursday, May 15 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
  Ridgefield High School, Room 311
  2630 S Hillhurst Road, Ridgefield
   

• Monday, May 19 | 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.
  Ridgefield Administrative and Civic Center (The RACC), Columbia Assembly Room
  510 Pioneer Street, Ridgefield
   

• Wednesday, May 21 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
  Ridgefield Administrative and Civic Center (The RACC), Columbia Assembly Room
  510 Pioneer Street, Ridgefield

Community participation is essential to ensuring the Strategic Plan reflects the values and priorities of the entire Ridgefield community. Ridgefield School District encourages everyone to attend and be part of this important process.

As the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance approaches, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and law enforcement partners are reaffirming their commitment to finding Kyron and pursuing justice.

Over the past year, investigators have undertaken a significant effort to modernize and review the case through a renewed, collaborative approach. The MCSO and Gresham Police detectives are working to digitize and reorganize the entire case. This means scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence.

When the case is digitized, the file will be reexamined by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). The BAU is a unit within the National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime that uses behavioral analysis to assist in criminal investigations, by analyzing statements, narratives and evidence, performing psychological and behavioral analysis and offering investigative recommendations based on patterns from similar historic and current cases nationwide.

These steps lay the foundation for a fresh and comprehensive review of the entire investigation. In the coming months, MCSO detectives will meet with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and his team for further evaluation.

Kyron Horman was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at Skyline Elementary School in Portland, Oregon, attending his school’s science fair. He has not been seen or heard from since. At the time, he was seven years old. Kyron has brown hair, blue eyes, and wears glasses. He also has a distinct V-shaped strawberry birthmark on his forehead.

On the day of his disappearance, Kyron was wearing a black t-shirt with "CSI" in green letters and a handprint graphic. He was also wearing black cargo pants, white socks, and black Skechers sneakers with orange trim. Kyron may have had his glasses on at the time.

“We have never stopped searching for Kyron,” said Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to bring resolution to this case, for Kyron, for his family and for the community. With the support of our partners and the public, we are actively pursuing every credible investigative opportunity. Kyron and his family are at the heart of our work.”

Each year, hundreds of tips are received, reviewed and considered for follow-up by investigators. To support this continued work, detectives are leveraging advances in software, digital forensics and technology to examine new and existing leads.

“As we approach the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance, I want to reaffirm my continued commitment to this case,” said Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez. “My office has begun a thorough and methodical review of the case with fresh eyes, and we look forward to receiving further analysis from the Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Our focus remains where it has always belonged—on Kyron and his family.”

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance. Anyone with information is urged to contact the MCSO TipLine at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us, or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC CyberTipLine.

Learn more about the case, review the timeline and view age-progressed images on our webpage dedicated to Kyron Horman.

Join the Friends of the Multnomah County Fair for a spectacular celebration at this year's Multnomah County Fair, marking the 119th edition of this beloved event! This year promises to be more thrilling than ever, featuring various live stage performances that showcase youth talent and multicultural acts.

Get ready for an action-packed lineup! Enjoy dazzling performances by White Lotus, Portland Lion and Dragon Dancers, and the dynamic Hip-Hop Soulsation dancers, high-energy shows by the School of Rock, the vibrant sounds of Salem Youth Mariachi, and captivating dances by the Four Directions Native American Dance Troupe.

Saturday, be sure to bring a sense of adventure for fun photo opportunities with the entertaining Portland Lucha Libre wrestlers!

On Sunday, Día de la Familia will spotlight a festive atmosphere filled with lively mariachi and ranchera music, folkloric dance performances, and FREE Loteria (bingo) games for all ages.

Monday, show off your doggie’s flair at the Memorial Day Doggie Costume Parade! Every pup is a winner!!!

Shop local as you explore a variety of craft and food vendors showcasing unique handmade goods and delicious treats. Our fair highlights youth this year, and exhibits will feature impressive displays of youth art, gardening, crafts, and more — a wonderful opportunity to support our young talent!

Don't miss the chance to take a pic with beloved characters from Maribel and Friends and take your little ones to meet adorable barn animals, creating cherished memories that capture the essence of a county fair.

The excitement continues with Oaks Park's exhilarating rides, mini golf, midway games, and roller skating – there's something for everyone!

Admission to the fair is free!

Please note that Oaks Park attractions and parking are sold separately.  For your convenience, discounted ride bracelets are available for purchase ahead of time at Multcofair.com.

Mark your calendars and visit Multcofair.com for daily event schedules and the latest updates. We can't wait to see you there!

Drivers advised to use detour for westbound travel on NE Airport Way and the southbound right turn lane on NE 148^th Ave to Airport Way

PORTLAND, OR – Portland Water Bureau crews will begin repairing a main break at NE Airport Way and NE 148^th Avenue this morning. Work is expected to last through the weekend.

The City is advising drivers to avoid the area. Flaggers will direct drivers to follow signs to a detour around the intersection. Westbound travel on NE Airport Way and southbound traffic in the right turn lane on NE 148^th Avenue will be impacted.

Drivers should use caution while driving in the area. Bureau crews working to repair the water main have families just like you; please keep your distance from crews at work and slow down when traveling through work zones.

Water service is not impacted at this time.

Crews are responding to a leak in a valve attached to a 48-inch steel water main that was originally installed in 1983. The soil condition in the area and the depth of the water main could complicate the repair. The first team on site worked to stop the flow of water, address flooding, and pinpoint the location of the break. Today’s efforts will focus on replacing the damaged main.

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. 

Salem, Ore. – On May 7, 2025, the City of Salem Budget Committee advanced the Interim City Manager's proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget to the Salem City Council.  The Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget begins on July 1, 2025, and addresses the $13.8 million budget shortfall in funding for Salem Public Library, parks, recreation programs and Center 50+, and other General Fund programs.  Salem’s City Council will next pick up the FY26 Budget on June 9, 2025.
 

“This isn’t a fair budget—but it is impartial,” said Interim City Manager Krishna Namburi. “It reflects the hard truth of our financial reality and the difficult situation we are in. The choices we face are not about one service being more important than another—it’s a response to a financial crisis, shaped by community priorities, that demanded hard, imperfect tradeoffs. I am deeply saddened by the impact this proposal has on the dedicated staff whose jobs are affected and on the community members who are losing access to essential services they rely on. I’m grateful to the Budget Committee for their thoughtful leadership, and to our community and staff for their resilience as we navigate this crisis together.”
 

The Budget Committee’s work began April 16, 2025 and continued through May 7, 2025.  The Committee considered in-person testimony and in writing sharing how these services have positively impacted their lives and voicing concerns over the potential cuts.  The Committee also held public hearings on Capital Improvement Fund and projects, and State Shared revenues discussed.  At each meeting, the City provided responses to questions.  All the Budget Committee’s materials, and the Proposed FY26 Budget, are available on the City’s website.
 

What Happens Next?

Salem City Council picks up the FY26 Budget on June 9, 2025.  The proposed budget balances costs with available revenues.  It does not account for the possibility of revenues from a proposed five-year local option levy. The City will also continue pursuing new revenue opportunities, identifying efficiencies and finding cost savings, including direct engagement with the State of Oregon to pursue funding support for public safety services to State facilities.
 

Local Option Levy. The local option levy will appear on Salem voters' ballots for the special election taking place on May 20, 2025.  When the outcome of the levy is known, if it passes, the Salem Budget Committee will reconvene to consider amendments to the FY26 Budget.
 

If the measure passes, the property tax revenue generated would be placed in a dedicated and protected account overseen by a committee to ensure that the revenue is used only for purposes outlined in the measure, including:

• Restoring and continuing Salem Public Library services.
• Operation of Center 50+ classes, activities, outreach services, and support services.
• Recreation programming, including youth day camps, youth sports, and community events.
• Management and maintenance of more than 90 parks, including facilities, playgrounds, splash fountains, sports fields, trails, and more.

# # #

(Astoria, OR)  — Clatsop County is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving on the Clatsop County Planning Commission. The appointment will fill a vacant seat whose term would expire on June 30, 2026.

“Planning commission members play a critical role in protecting the health and safety of our communities and property values,” said Gail Henrikson, community development director.

“We strive to see that all geographical areas of the county are represented to the greatest extent possible.”

The Planning Commission is the county’s committee for citizen involvement on development and land use issues, such as zoning, natural resources, transportation, natural hazards, economic development, housing, farm and forest lands and coastal zones.

The commission makes land use decisions on subdivisions and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on amendments to the comprehensive plan and its implementing ordinances.

Committee application forms are available on the Clatsop County website or at the County Manager’s office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410 in Astoria. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. Friday, June 13, 2025.

-More-

The Planning Commission regularly meets in Astoria at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are currently hybrid, with an in-person and virtual option available.

The Board of Commissioners is tentatively scheduled to review applicants at its Wednesday, July 9 work session, with appointments tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, July 23.

For additional information about the commission’s meetings or responsibilities, please ikson@clatsopcounty.gov">email or call Gail Henrikson at 503-325-8611.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: May 9, 2025

Updated 05-09-2025 | 0755

Suspect in custody

Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit detectives have arrested a male juvenile in the homicide of Isac Steven Rizo. Rizo, age 21, received fatal knife injuries during a physical altercation with the suspect at a billiard hall on May 8.

The 16-year-old suspect was taken into custody without incident at approximately 9:30 p.m. outside a residence in northeast Salem. He was transported to the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center and lodged on the following charges:

• Murder, second degree
• Attempted murder, first degree
• Assault, second degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon

With the suspect in custody, all further inquiries concerning this investigation should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

Originally published 05-08-2025 | 1130

Altercation ends in multiple stabbings, leaving one person dead and another injured

Salem, Ore. — Just before 1:00 a.m. this morning, Salem Police officers responded to the report of two stabbing victims who arrived at the Salem Health emergency room in need of immediate medical care.

Officers learned the stabbings occurred during a physical altercation between a group of young men at The Cue Ball located at 1242 State ST.

One of the individuals who was stabbed, 21-year-old Isac Steven Rizo of Salem, died from his injuries at the hospital. A second victim, a 20-year-old man, received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

Violent Crimes Unit detectives are investigating Rizo’s death as a homicide.

No further details about the incident are being released at this time, as this is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Salem Police Tip Line at 503-588-8477.

# # #

Earlier today, fire crews responded to a fully involved shop fire that prompted a second alarm response. The 30x30-foot structure was fully engulfed upon arrival, with exposures threatened on all sides.

Thanks to the rapid and coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, the fire was brought under control. One firefighter sustained minor injuries during operations and was transported to a local hospital. The firefighter has since been treated and released.

Further investigation determined the fire likely originated from a burn barrel near the structure.

On May 8, 2025, at about 8pm detectives from the Clatsop County Major Crimes Team along with Cannon Beach Police officers, Seaside Police officers and Clatsop County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Joshua Alan Gervolstad, a 46-year-old resident of Cannon Beach, for the May 7, 2025, assault and strangulation of his 39-year-old girlfriend, Kendra Edwards.  Gervolstad was located at 988 S. Hemlock and taken into custody without incident.

Gervolstad will be charged with Assault II and Strangulation.  Assault II (ORS 163.175) is charged when a person intentionally or knowingly causes serious physical injury to another.  Serious physical injury is defined as physical injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious and protracted disfigurement, protracted impairment of health or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily organ.  Strangulation (ORS 163187) is defined as a person who knowingly impedes another person’s normal breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat, neck, or chest, or by blocking the nose or mouth.

Detectives will continue to evaluate all evidence and investigative leads. The case will be presented to the Clatsop County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Officer Jenny Thompson at 971-601-0749.

The Clatsop County Major Crimes Team is comprised of detectives from Astoria, Warrenton, Seaside, Gearhart, and Cannon Beach Police Departments along with detectives from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and a representative from the Clatsop County District Attorney’s Office.

This information is preliminary and is intended for early information use rather than being a formal investigative report.

The Sandy River has been the site of several drownings in past years.

Several Agencies Join Together To Promote Water Safety on The Sandy River

Several Agencies Join Together To Promote Water Safety on The Sandy River

Several Agencies Join Together To Promote Water Safety on The Sandy River

Updated Press Release Cortes

On May 8, 2025, Marion County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Tracy A. Prall sentenced Brandi Cortes (41) to 90 months (7.5 years) in the Department of Corrections for eluding law enforcement and attempting to stab Keizer Police Officers Cody Stupfel and Jeremie Fletcher with a knife from July 28, 2024.

Judge Prall sentenced Cortes to 45 months at the Department of Corrections for each conviction of Attempted Assault in the Second Degree to be served consecutively. She also sentenced Cortes to 6 months at the Department of Corrections for two convictions of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude to be served concurrently. The court ruled that convictions of Assaulting of a Public Safety Officer and Attempted Assaulting of a Public Safety Officer would merge into the convictions for Attempted Assault in the Second Degree.

The sentencing came after a jury trial which concluded on April 29, 2025, where the jury found Cortes guilty of two counts of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police, two counts of Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, one count of Assault of a Public Safety Officer for causing injury to Jeremie Fletcher, and one count of Attempting to Assault a Public Safety Officer for attempting to injure Cody Stupfel. Cortes was found not guilty of Attempted Aggravated Murder and Attempted Murder in the First Degree.

During the trial, prosecutors introduced evidence that Cortes took Keizer Police on a high speed chase throughout the City of Keizer that ended at Keizer Rapids Park. Cortes then armed herself with a knife and repeatedly stabbed both Officer Cody Stupfel and Officer Jeremie Fletcher. As a result of having protective ballistic vests on, neither officer was significantly injured by the knife.

At the time of the incident, Cortes was on supervision for DUII. Cortes had previously been convicted of two counts of Attempted Assault in the First Degree (Marion County Circuit Court Case 13C45497) and Criminal Mischief (03C47081). 

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys Sarah Meyer and Braden Wolf.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office is grateful that the officers were unharmed, and wishes to thank Keizer Police for their professsional response and work on this case.

National Armed Forces Appreciation Day is Saturday, May 17, 2025,  and Oaks Park is delighted to continue the annual tradition of honoring local active military personnel with a day of free rides!  

Active and reservist personnel and their immediate families (significant other and children under 18 living at home) receive free ride bracelets when they show a valid military ID at the ticket booth on 5/17/2025 between 12 and 7 PM.

Plus, at 2 PM, there will be free cake and balloons for all park guests (while supplies last).

Visit oakspark.com for more details and to plan your visit.

Oregon: St Helens Lions Club Spring-into-Summer Fundraiser Dinner

DATE:  May 24, 2025 - Saturday

TIME:  5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

TICKETS:  $10 each

LOCATION:  St Helens Moose Lodge
57317 Old Portland Road, Warren, OR
(about 2 miles south of St Helens)

Join us for a special evening to kick-off the summer on Saturday, May 24. Enjoy a dinner of hamburgers, baked beans, and your choice of potato or mac salad for only $10 per person. Meal tickets are available in advance or at the door. There will be raffle tickets available to purchase for prizes.

The funds raised at this event will support St Helens Lions Club projects, including youth scholarships, sight and hearing programs, the local food bank and senior center, and a school backpack program.

Contact Mark Johnson, St Helens Lions Club President, at 503-396-1549 with questions or to obtain tickets.

VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Wednesday, May 14, the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools, VPS staff and students, and community partners will gather at Fort Vancouver High School for the groundbreaking of a new construction trades building. 

Date: May 14, 2025

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Fort Vancouver High School
                5700 E 18th St., Vancouver, WA

This new facility, funded by the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, will be utilized for classes teaching students job-ready skills in advanced manufacturing and welding. It greatly expands the capacity of Fort’s existing programs and will provide students with hands-on, experiential training. The center aims to create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to the region’s ongoing economic growth.

The Lynch Technical Trades Center is projected to open to students by January 2026.

“We’re so happy to be able to bridge the gap between our donors’ visions, community needs, and the needs of our VPS students. This pathway for collaboration makes buildings like the Lynch Technical Trades Center possible,” said Timothea Sutton, Interim Executive Director of the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools. “We can’t wait to see the positive impact these highly-trained students will bring to our community.”

This project is 100% donor-funded, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, a charitable fund of the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington, as well as the district’s generous community and business partners.

VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Tuesday, May 20, community members, students, and Vancouver Public Schools Leadership will celebrate the opening of the Endeavour Technical Trades Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Hudson’s Bay High School.

Date: May 20, 2025

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Hudson’s Bay High School
                1601 E McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver, WA

The state-of-the-art building, made possible by The Endeavour Fund, is an additional 7,500 square feet of workspace for Vancouver Public Schools’ students to learn and engage in hands-on training in areas like foundations, framing, plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, and other fundamental construction skills. In the new building, the students will be able to use simulators for forklifts, mobile cranes, and other heavy equipment. 

Eighty students will pilot the program in the upcoming 2025-26 school year, and the program will expand to 100 students in the 2026-27 school year. 

The dedication plaque, which will be unveiled at the event, highlights the vision that made this a reality: “This building stands as a testament to the vision and commitment of our donors and community partners - empowering students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to build fulfilling careers and enrich our community for generations to come.”

For this initiative, the Foundation for VPS played a vital role by leading collaboration with donors, community partners, and district staff, achieving a 100% donor-funded project, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of The Endeavour Fund and the district’s generous community and business partners. Thank you to all who made this building possible:

The Endeavour Fund

Quail Homes

Building Futures Foundation

Bunch Construction, Inc

Cascade Wire Works, LLC

Cascade Electrical

CEG Engineering, Inc

Christenson Electrical

Covalent Architecture, LLC

First Impressions Concrete, LLC

Frontier Metal Fabrications

Greenwood Painting, LLC

Jack’s Overhead Door, Inc

JNB Mechanical, Inc

Legacy 6, LLC

MacKay Sposito

Meteor Education

MJS Contracting, Inc

Nucor

Patriot Fire Protection, Inc

PBS Engineering & Environmental 

Point Monitor Corporation

Pro Property Services, LLC

River City Enterprises, Inc

Steward Mechanical, Inc

Stoner Electric Group

Westmore Construction, LLC

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive & Board Working Session Meeting on Monday, May 12, 2025 at the Parkrose High School Library, located at 12003 NE Shaver St., 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: a recognition of Mental Health month, District Wellness presentation, board business, summer school plan and personal device (cell phone) policy discussion. 

Earlier that evening we will be celebrating our 3rd Grade Writing Contest Winners! Join us for the Annual Central East Portland Rotary Club - 3rd Grade Writing Contest Awards Ceremony from 5:30-6:30pm

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.

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College invites those considering a career in education to take the first step toward their future at the upcoming Teaching and Education College and Career Fair. The event will be held Tuesday, May 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Wacheno Welcome Center Mall Area at CCC’s Oregon City campus.

The fair offers an opportunity for students, prospective educators and community members to explore pathways in teaching and education. Attendees will be able to:

• Meet with university advisors to learn about transfer pathways designed for future educators.
   

• Connect with local school districts, early learning centers and substitute staffing agencies to discover employment opportunities and build professional networks.

In addition, attendees who sign in at the event will be entered for a chance to win a free tuition voucher, valid for up to four credits (a value of $520) at Clackamas Community College.

“Our goal is to support and inspire the next generation of educators by connecting them with valuable resources, programs and local partners,” Mayla Morgan, teaching and learning outreach navigator, said. “Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your career in education, this fair is a great place to get connected.”

The event is free and open to the public. Clackamas Community College’s Oregon City campus is located at 19600 Molalla Ave. Parking is free.

For more information, contact Morgan at mayla.morgan@clackamas.edu. 

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Forests Advisory Committee will host a tour of forestland in the Clatsop State Forest on May 15 and meet on May 16 in Astoria and the meeting will have a virtual option via Teams.

The public is welcome at both events. The field tour agenda and meeting agenda are posted on the SFAC webpage.

Details

Field tour: Meets at 9 a.m. on May 15 at the Jewell Wildlife Meadows Area. RSVP is requested for the field tour so that attendees can be provided safety equipment. Tour attendees should provide their own lunch, refreshments and transportation suitable for traveling on forest roads. Please RSVP no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 13 to Emily Shook at emily.j.shook@odf.oregon.gov.

SFAC meeting: The committee will meet from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 16, at the ODF Astoria District Office, 92219 Highway 202. Topics on the agenda include an update on the FY2026 Annual Operations Plans, performance measures, and financial/legislative/FMP/HCP updates. The public will have the opportunity to provide comments virtually or in person at the beginning of the meeting.

SFAC’s role

The State Forests Advisory Committee (SFAC) is comprised of citizens and representatives of timber, environmental and recreation groups as well as a representative from Oregon’s Native American tribes. The SFAC provides a forum to discuss issues, opportunities and concerns, and offer advice and guidance to ODF on the implementation of the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The plan provides guidance for managing 616,000 acres within the Tillamook, Clatsop and Santiam State Forests, and several scattered state-owned forest tracts in Benton, Polk, Lincoln and Lane counties through a balanced approach to generate revenue while prioritizing environmental and social benefits.

Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Questions about accessibility or special accommodation for the meeting can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at 503-983-3761.

What: Oregon Departments of Forestry and Corrections will be training more than 100 adults in custody (AICs) in various areas of wildland fire fighting for the upcoming season. These 10-person crews will then be qualified to deploy to fires and, during extreme fire danger events, will be pre-positioned in high threat areas to reduce response times.  

Visuals: See AICs rotate between four training stations: (All four stations will be going at the same time so news media can rotate between them as desired—these are all hands-on stations.)

Station #1 Pumps/Hose lay—AICs will receive a tour of an engine, learn to operate a Mark III pump, and construct a progressive hose lay.

Station #2 Fire Shelter Deployment—AICs will watch a 25-minute video in the tree cooler then deploy a practice fire shelter on the softball field.

Station #3 Handline construction/Tools—AICs will learn how to construct handline and will learn about each hand tool used in fire line construction.

Station #4 Mop-up—We will light burn piles and AICs will learn the process of mopping up after a fire.

People on-site available to interview: Various AICs participating in the training, ODF staff giving the training, and Forestry and Corrections staff who are assigned and work at South Fork. ODF will also have experts available

to talk about May being Wildfire Awareness Month and general information on the upcoming fire season.

When: May 14

Where: South Fork Forest Camp in the Tillamook State Forest. 48300 Wilson River Hwy, Tillamook, OR 97141-9799. It’s about 1.5 miles up a gravel road after the turnoff from the highway.

Time: Meet at 9:30 a.m. (If you come at a later time, we will do our best to get you to all four stations, but you might miss a rotation or two.)

Please send an RSVP by May 12. RSVP to tim.l.hoffman@odf.oregon.gov and/or er.r.campbell@doc.oregon.gov">amber.r.campbell@doc.oregon.gov . For more information on the fire training contact: Tim Hoffman, ODF public affairs, for South Fork or corrections-related information contact Amber Campbell, DOC public affairs. (Note: Likely cells phone will not have coverage at South Fork.)

Special note: All AICs have signed photo releases. Many may not want to be interviewed; however, we will have several that will be available.

Background:

Oregon Department of Forestry : Adults in custody rehabilitation : Forest benefits : State of Oregon

Department of Corrections : Locations and Divisions : About Us : State of Oregon

The Dalles, Ore. - On May 7^th, 2025 The Dalles Police and the Hood River and Wasco County Sheriff’s Offices collaborated on an investigation into commercial drug offenses in The Dalles.  A warrant was served at a residence on east 9^th Street that resulted in the seizure of about 143 grams of suspected cocaine and pharmaceutical pills.  A handgun and tactical rifle were also seized.  The rifle was reported as stolen from central Oregon.  Officers and Deputies also seized $101,756.00 of suspected drug proceeds from the address. 

As a result of the investigation one arrest was made.  Eli S. Sarabia, age 23 of The Dalles arrested for the following charges:

• Unlawful Delivery of Cocaine in a Substantial Quantity
• Unlawful Possession of Cocaine
• Unlawful Possession of Oxycodone
• Unlawful Possession of Hydrocodone
• Tampering with Drug Records
• Theft in the First Degree
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms

Sarabia is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.  He is being held at the NORCOR Correctional Facility.

This is the first case since the restarting of the Mid-Columbia Narcotics Task Force, also known as the MINT Team.  This team of detectives is dedicated to fighting drugs and associated criminal behavior in the Mid-Columbia region.  The MINT Team has been inactive for a number of years.  The MINT team is reactivated in a limited capacity as police administrators work to build capacity, training, equipment and expertise.  Sheriff Magill said, “This case Demonstrates the ongoing need for dedicated drug enforcement in our communities.  I look forward to continued collaboration with our partners and expanding this effort”.  Chief Worthy said, “I’m happy to see the safe conclusion of this significant case.  It highlights the value of working together and removing guns and drugs from our community”. 

The Wasco  County District Attorney’s office collaborated in the oversight of the case and preparation of the search warrant. 

The Oregon State Marine Board is amplifying its education and outreach program to meet boaters where they are, on the water and in Oregon communities. The agency’s seasonal boating safety advocates (BSAs) are already making a splash across Oregon, interacting with the public at schools, popular waterways, and other community events to promote boating and water safety.

“This program emphasizes the Marine Board's commitment to modernizing boating safety education and outreach,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “We are focused on decreasing boating fatalities in Oregon. So many incidents are preventable and come down to education, understanding the risks, and having the right safety equipment for the activity. The BSAs will help reinforce how to play it safe.”

The BSA positions are not regulatory in nature but collect informal field data related to boating activities for safety and compliance. Advocates are approachable, and boaters are encouraged to share their passions and perspectives. “Engaging with boaters on waters across the state creates an opportunity to have conversations and learn what the agency can do to serve boaters better,” Paulsen adds. “BSAs are also eyes and ears for agency staff to help us gather observational data when they are out on the water.”

Learn more about the Marine Board’s Boating Safety Advocates and recreational boating in Oregon at Boat.Oregon.gov.

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Camas, Wash. -- 

On May 8^th, 2025, at approximately 05:23a.m., Camas Officers responded to a disturbance call at the 2400 block of NW Magnolia Street in Camas, Washington.

When officers arrived, they encountered a group of individuals reporting an armed robbery.  The suspect was taken into custody from a vehicle parked nearby.  A loaded .38 caliber handgun and a black mask the suspect allegedly wore during the incident was recovered at the scene.  The victim’s stolen property was also recovered. 

Haven R. Akuna-Feist, a 19-year-old Vancouver residence, was booked into the Clark County Jail on charges of Robbery – 1^st degree   and   Assault-2^nd degree. 

The victim and the suspect did not directly know each other, but they have a mutual acquaintance in common.  No one was injured during this encounter.  There are no additional suspects outstanding.

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Portland Police Bureau is investigating a shooting involving a security officer at a preschool in Southwest Portland, and all children are safe.

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 11:50 a.m., Portland Police Officers from Central Precinct responded to a report of a shooting near a preschool in the 6600 block of Southwest Capitol Highway.

Officers arrived and found an adult male injured in a parking lot. He was transported by ambulance to the hospital by ambulance. The involved armed security officer, who is employed by the preschool, remained on scene and is cooperating with the investigation. No suspects are being sought and there is no known ongoing danger to the community.

Initial investigation suggests the shooting did not take place on the school grounds. Parents/guardians are being notified and a plan is in place for them to pick up their kids.

The investigation has Southwest Vermont Street closed between Southwest Capitol Highway and Southwest 24^th Avenue.

The PIO is responding to the scene. Media staging is Southwest 24^th Avenue and Southwest Vermont Street.

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Give Mom the gift of fun on her special day and celebrate the women in your life with a day of family fun at Oaks Park!

On Sunday, May 11, 2025, moms receive a free ride bracelet with the purchase of a ride bracelet for their child.  Bracelets include unlimited rides on all the rides for which the wearer meets the height/safety requirements.

Ask for the Mother's Day Special at the Ticket Booth.  Deal not available online. 

PF&R receives Cold Cut Cobra, a specialized tool to address EV battery compartment fires

With many technological advancements introduced to society come new response concerns for the fire service that eventually lead to the development of new tools used to mitigate an emergency. With the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles (EV), there is an increased concern about Lithium-Ion battery fires in our community. These EV battery compartment fires pose a significant threat to responders with the presence of toxins in the smoke and to the environment due to toxin-laden water runoff. The Cold Cut Cobra Water Lance is a new tool that is designed to address this new category of emergency.

Lithium-Ion battery fires require a much larger volume of water to extinguish than other types of fires; they have high levels of toxins captured in the water runoff; and they have aerosolized particulates in the smoke that can be, at minimum, a respiratory irritant, but can also lead to respiratory distress and even respiratory arrest in some cases. Using the Cold Cut Cobra reduces the amount of water used and can eliminate the release of aerosolized toxins.

Lithium-Ion batteries can enter a state of thermal runaway, in which the temperature of the batteries increases to the point of ignition, either from impact to the batteries or an electrical short. Fire can then extend from battery to battery throughout the steel encased battery compartment of the EV. With the protective steel casing limiting access to the battery compartment, applying water onto the batteries to cool and extinguish a fire is difficult. Water application to the exterior of the compartment may cool the compartment enough to reduce the flames temporarily, but this will rarely extinguish the fire completely, as lithium-ion batteries in thermal runaway tend to continue to heat up and often reignite.

With EV becoming so prevalent in our country, this is a national issue and the response model across the country varies widely when addressing EV fires. Some departments are altering their response protocols to refrain from using water and thus allowing the fire to completely consume the batteries. This results in faster fire extinguishment than if water is applied to the battery compartment but can lead to the release of a large toxic plume into the air which can adversely affect the safety of people downwind. Other departments are extinguishing these fires using traditional firefighting techniques, which results in thousands of gallons of toxin-laden water on the roadway that can enter the watershed through drains or permeate the soil adjacent to the roadway. The Cold Cut Cobra is designed to extinguish the fire and trap the toxins in the battery compartment with very little water and a significant reduction in smoke production, reducing the negative environmental and safety impacts of an EV fire.

The Cold Cut Cobra has a self-contained water tank with a motor used to power a high-pressure water pump, with the additional ability to mix in a nontoxic, environmentally safe iron ore aggregate used to penetrate into solid materials such as metal and concrete, using a hole of just 1/8” in diameter, roughly the size of a small ball bearing. The water is delivered through a nozzle with multiple triggers which control water flow and the aggregate mixture. The tool is designed to pierce through the metal protective battery compartment cover using the aggregate-water mix. Once the hole is made, the iron ore is removed from the stream and the water stream floods the compartment, quickly extinguishing the fire and eliminating a possibility of a rekindle, as the water stops the propagation of the thermal runaway. There is also very little concern of water run off using this tool, as almost all the water is trapped in the battery compartment.

The Cold Cut Cobra will be housed on Heavy Squad 24, located in the Overlook Neighborhood, which will provide excellent access to I5 North and Southbound. This apparatus responds to all high-rise fire incidents or fires in buildings greater than 7 stories in height. Keeping this tool on Heavy Squad 24 will enable easy deployment to Portland streets for EV battery fires and will ensure this tool will be available at any large structure fires that have lithium-ion battery banks used for power sources and storage.

PF&R was fortunate to receive funding from the City’s Bureau of Fleet and Facilities (BFF) to purchase a Cold Cut Cobra Water Lance that will use significantly less water than the traditional techniques and mitigate battery compartment fires in a short period of time, reducing respiratory exposures and reducing if not eliminating the toxic runoff from the water used in extinguishment. BFF’s CityFleet received a grant from the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) to support transitioning the City’s fleet to battery-electric vehicles and equipment, including charging infrastructure, vehicle technician training, and related maintenance and emergency response tools such as the Cold Cut Cobra Water Lance  Electrification of the City’s fleet supports the City’s 2022-2025 Climate Emergency Workplan and related City policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from City operations.

PF&R members have received training on how to operate the Cold Cut Cobra and the tool will be placed in service shortly to better serve those in our response area. Portland Fire & Rescue would like to thank both CityFleet and the Portland Clean Energy Fund for providing for the funding for this highly specialized tool that will both improve our response capabilities and reduce the environmental impacts of Li-Ion battery fires in EV’s.

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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Theater Department will present Chelsea Marcantel’s “Airness” as its spring main stage production.

When Nina enters her first air guitar competition, she thinks winning will be easy. But as she befriends a group of charismatic nerds all committed to becoming the next champion, she discovers there’s more to this art form than playing pretend – it’s about finding yourself in your favorite songs and performing with raw joy.

Will Nina be able to let go and set herself free onstage? Following her mission to shred or be shredded, “Airness” is an exuberant reminder that everything we need to rock is already inside us. A comedy about competition, completion and finding the airness inside yourself.

Directed by Allison Moon, “Airness” features a dynamic ensemble of CCC students, with scenic design by Chris Whitten, lighting design by Katy Frazier and Jaden Martin, prop design by Jennifer Jett and costumes by August Hemlock.

“Airness” runs May 22-June 1, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and Friday, May 30, at 10 a.m. in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors (62+) and free for students. Tickets are discounted by $1 if purchased online. Visit www.clackamas.edu/theatre or call 503-594-3153 for reservations.

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HIKING SAFETY   
 

Part of the beauty of Oregon is the hiking opportunities throughout the state. Hiking can be a fun and healthy activity for the whole family. But without proper planning, even a short hike could turn into a dangerous situation. In 2024 our Search and Rescue Team responded to 10 reports of missing or lost individuals that needed specialized assistance. Before you hit the trails, remember these hiking safety tips.

1. Make a Gear List

Whether you're hiking for three hours or three days, you don't want to forget something important. Create a gear list to make sure you have everything you need. Some items to include are:

• Water

• Water filtration such as a filter straw or a filtration waterbottle

• Rain gear and additional climate-appropriate clothing

• Compass

• Map

• Extra food

• First aid supplies

• Cell phone or radio with backup batteries

2. Bring a Map

Bringing a map and becoming familiar with the area before you hike is so important. You should never rely solely on GPS technology especially with limited service and battery power. Always pack a map and make sure you know how to read it before you need it.

3. Hike During the Day

Whenever possible, plan to hike during the day. It is easier to get lost in the dark and the area may be home to wild animals that are active at night.

4. Know the Area

Exploring new hiking trails can be exciting. Unfortunately, it also means you're unfamiliar with the territory. Before heading out, check regional hiking information for:

• Local wild animals and what to do if you encounter them

• Local poisonous plants

• Local hunting areas and seasons

• Trail closures or advisories

• Local emergency alerts

• Local weather

5. Check the Forecast

Check the forecast while planning your hike and keep checking it until you leave. This helps determine what gear you need to bring and greatly impacts your safety. Hiking in hotter or colder weather have different challenges that impact your trip and your health. If the forecast does predict rain, snow, or ice, be sure the trail you're taking is passable in these conditions. Consider contacting your local Parks and Recreation Department so they can direct you to real-time information. When in doubt, reschedule your hike for better weather.

6. Be Confident Not Cocky

You know what you can and can't handle. When hiking in a group or with a more advanced friend, you may take risks you aren't ready for. Don't risk injury; be honest with your skill level before hitting the trail.

7. Tell Someone Before You Go

Tell someone when and where you are going and when they should expect you to be back. If that person doesn't hear from you by a certain time, they can take the necessary action to begin a search. With Search and Rescue missions, time matters. If you don’t make it home on time, having a friend that can report your planned hiking activity and timeline can help searchers locate you.

8. Stay Together

When hiking with a large group, it's easy to separate into groups of fast and slow hikers. Often, this happens naturally, but it isn't always safe. Keep someone at the front that hikes at a modest pace to ensure everyone stays together.

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

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Date: May 8, 2025

Case #: 2023-00043395

Incident: Canadian man arrested for July 2023 homicide

Date of Arrest: Dec. 17, 2024

Arrested: Cole Nikolaus Sinclair, 25-year-old Canadian citizen

A Canadian man, whose extradition is being sought by the United States, has been arrested and detained in Canada in connection with the homicide of Evelyn Jeanette Weaver.

After an extensive investigation, Bend Police identified 25-year-old Cole Nikolaus Sinclair as the suspect in the homicide of Evelyn Weaver. Sinclair was provisionally arrested on December 17, 2024, under Canada’s extradition process and remains detained in Canada at this time pending the outcome of his extradition proceedings.

 At this time, the Bend Police Department is not releasing further information due to legal restrictions.

Weaver, 28, was found dead in her home in July 2023. She was a victim of homicide. There is no indication at this time that Weaver and Sinclair knew one another.

Bend Police wish to thank the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division, the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office and other agencies for their assistance in this investigation.

This remains an open, active investigation. We have included a photo of Sinclair. If you recognize Sinclair or had any encounters with him, please contact nonemergency dispatch at 541-693-6911 and request to speak with Det. Sgt. Tommy Russell.

Richland, WA — April 10, 2025 — Christensen Inc., a leading distributor of fuel and industrial lubricants across the western US, is proud to announce the appointment of George Fuller, as the company’s President and Chief Operating Officer.
 

With over 25 years of experience in operations, strategy, and supply chain management, George Fuller has a proven track record of driving performance, optimizing operations, and leading high-impact teams in complex environments. His appointment marks a significant step forward in Christensen’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth.
 

“We are thrilled to have George on Christensen’s executive team,” said Tony Christensen, Chief Executive Officer of Christensen Inc. “His depth of leadership, experience scaling operations, and customer-first mindset are the perfect match for where we’re headed. He has a tremendous passion for people and will play a vital role as we continue expanding our services and footprint.”
 

Prior to joining Christensen, Fuller held senior leadership roles at companies such as Hydrite Chemical Manufacturing and Univar Solutions, where he led large-scale logistics, procurement, and sales initiatives. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer at Shrieve, overseeing a multi-national chemical distributing and manufacturing company.
 

In his new role, Fuller will lead Christensen’s daily operations, supply chain functions, and sales across all the company’s operating divisions.
 

“At this phase of my life, I could not be more excited to be in the position where I can be part of such a great organization with great people,” said Fuller. “It’s not about one department or person, it’s about all of us collectively working together on this growth trajectory, and I believe we will achieve this because of the team members I know and will get to know.”
 

For more information, visit www.christensenusa.com.

Salem, Oregon - The Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board (EPAB) will meet at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The meeting will take place remotely via the internet on Microsoft Teams and is open to the public. The agenda and handouts will be posted on the advisory board’s website.

• What: Meeting of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board  

• When: Thursday, May 15, 2025, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

• Where: Microsoft Teams (Join the meeting)

  • Call: 1-503-446-4951 | Conference ID: 714 054 549#

• Who: Members of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board

The Legislature established the advisory board with enactment of ORS 276A.270-276. The board will advise the State Chief Information Officer (CIO) on key decisions and strategic choices about how the state CIO manages and operates the state’s web portal services.

The Oregon.gov portal is the connection point for citizens to access state agency services and information on the internet. The board provides oversight to specific websites, services and online payments where agencies choose to utilize the State Chief Information Officer’s E-Government Program as their service provider.

With the board’s advice, the state CIO wants to make the Oregon web portal services and their operation as effective as they can be for Oregonians to interact with state government.  

PRESS RELEASE                        FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 8, 2025

Multnomah Circuit Court Judge Andrew Lavin sentenced Karon Roylee Jones to 145 months in prison.

A Multnomah County Jury deliberated for  about 90 minutes and found Jones guilty of Assault in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and ID Theft. 

Deputy District Attorney Andrew Wood prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing he said: “The defendant imposed unacceptable cruelty upon Mr. Leehan on Thanksgiving morning in 2024.  Mr. Leehan had the strength and fortitude to show up in court at 99 years of age and provide his account of the incident to the jury.  The verdict of the jury in this case is a testament to the incredible strength of Mr. Francis Leehan. I hope that the verdict of the jury and the sentence imposed by Judge Lavin provide Mr. Leehan with a sense that justice has been served.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to recognize and thank MCDA Investigator Nathan Tobey for providing critical assistance throughout this case. Also, thank you to MCDA Victim Advocate Jessica Mathis for assisting the victim and the victim's family.

THE FACTS:

On November 28, 2024, at about 7:30 AM, the 98-year old victim drove himself from his house on NE 154th Ave., to the Winco Foods store located at: 1222 NE 102nd Avenue, Portland. 

Video surveillance shows the victim park his car and walk into the Winco store. As he is gingerly walking through the parking lot, a gold Mercedes sedan parks next to his car.. While the 98-year old is in the store, the suspect vehicle Mercedes re-positions itself so the driver door of the Mercedes is next to the driver door of the victim’s car. The elderly man made his way from Winco back toward his car. As the 98 year old is opening his door to get in, the defendant gets out of the Mercedes,  reaches out and grabs the victim’s wallet out of his back pocket.

The victim immediately turns around to confront the defendant who was getting back into the Mercedes. 

The victim grabs onto the defendant’s driver door with the defendant in the driver seat. The victim pulls on the door while calling for help and can be seen struggling to try and open the defendant's door. During the struggle, the  defendant punches the gas and drives away, slamming the 98 year old to the pavement. The victim suffered bruising and bleeding to his arms and hands, but no broken bones, fortunately. Police were later able to identify the Mercedes because of unique features and arrested Jones the next day as he sat in the car. Police found the victim’s personal items including insurance cards and medical card inside the Mercedes. 

The court imposed an upward departure sentence in this case, finding the following upward departure factors had been proved beyond a reasonable doubt in an enhancement fact trial: deliberate cruelty, vulnerable victim, on supervision status at time of the offense. The defendant had been convicted of two prior stranger rape offenses (Rape in the 1st Degree) in Multnomah County case 10-07-32667. The total DOC term imposed was 145 months. 

                                            ###MCDA###

DALLAS, Oregon (May 8^th, 2025)

The City of Dallas proudly announces the Dallas Police Department is recognized for excellence in policy management and training by Lexipol, the leading provider of solutions that empower performance excellence in public safety.

The Lexipol Connect program tracks Dallas PD’s performance on five metrics proven to measure success in policy management.  Dallas PD achieved Gold, the highest level of recognition offered, for consistent and effective policy dissemination to personnel, timely policy updates as laws change, and officer training on policies.  Dallas PD’s excellence in policy and policy training enhances community safety by ensuring consistent and effective response based on state and federal law and nationally recognized best practices.

“Our Policies and Procedures exist to guide members in the performance of their duties in conformity with the department mission.  That mission is to provide professional, effective and unbiased police services in a fair an ethical manner.  Strong policies, consistent training and strong community partnerships are vital to the success of a law enforcement agency.  Being recognized by Lexipol Connect highlights our focus on continuous improvement, professionalism and public safety.”  – Tom Simpson, Chief of Police

“I'm very pleased with our highly professional police department, it's leaders, officers and civilian staff. The Lexipol's Gold recognition is well-earned and something for our community to celebrate.” – Brian Latta, City Manager

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: PIO Dave Schmitke, Clark County Fire District 6 Email: david.schmitke@ccfd6.org Phone: (360) 576-1195
5/6/25

Clark County Is a High Performer in Emergency Medical Response Local EMS statistics show higher cardiac survival and care outcomes than national averages.

Vancouver, WA

Does the emergency medical care provided in Clark County meet or exceed national standards?

A recent study from the Clark County EMS Office of the Medical Program Director suggests the answer is a resounding yes.

New data reveals that public application of CPR, field use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and survival after cardiac events are all significantly higher in Clark County than national averages—proof that early intervention and quality EMS care are making a difference in our community.

Clark County EMS vs. National Averages:
 

National Avg.                                                                           Clark County

Transporting Safely
59%                                                                                              88%

Stroke Screening

81%                                                                                               96%

Low Blood Sugar Treatment

40%                                                                                                96%

Breathing Assessment

93%                                                                                                 100%

Asthma Treatment

53%                                                                                                  86%

Pain Reduction after Injury

19%                                                                                                  27%

Cardiac Arrest Survival

11%                                                                                                 19%

“This isn’t just about data—it’s about lives saved,” said Dr. Marlow Macht, EMS Medical Director for Clark County. “We are seeing tangible outcomes that put Clark County ahead of the curve when it comes to emergency response.”

Why It Matters:

• Safer Transport: In 2024, response protocols were revised to reduce unnecessary use of lights and sirens, which double the risk of ambulance crashes. Now, more low-risk calls are handled by Basic Life Support (BLS) teams, increasing safety.
• Faster Stroke Detection: Early stroke recognition enables paramedics to direct patients to life-saving treatments, including clot-busting drugs.
• Critical Interventions: Immediate treatment for low blood sugar and asthma can prevent permanent damage or death.
• Innovation in Emergency Response: The County’s Nurse Navigation program is easing the burden on 911 responders by connecting lower-acuity callers to appropriate care alternatives.
• 2024 Nurse Navigation Stats:
• Total 911 Calls: 735
• Referred to BLS: 45%
• Directed to Virtual or Urgent Care: 18%
• Referred to Nurse Advice Line: 26%

Clark County Fire District 6 is available for interviews on this important topic.
 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department awarded four grants totaling $295,195 for projects across the state that create or preserve memorials to veterans or wars.

Funded projects include:

• A monument in Stanfield’s Veterans Memorial Park 
• Creation of the Oregon Airport Memorial Gateway in Florence 
• A Gold Star Memorial in Ryan J Hill Memorial Park in Keizer
• A Revolutionary War Memorial within the Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park

This competitive grant program was created by the Oregon legislature in 2005. Applicants must be local or tribal governments and the memorial must be on public land.

For more information on the Veteran and War Memorials grant program, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Karen Litvin at en.litvin@oprd.oregon.gov">karen.litvin@oprd.oregon.gov, 971-720-0852.

Portland, Oregon, May 8, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market returns for 2025 to its convenient NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location with more than 20 vendors, educational programming & food demos and an exciting new food-sharing initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market.
 

The new program is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

This initiative comes at a critical time as tariffs are driving up the cost of imported goods nationwide and with the potential for shortages looming, building community and increasing access to fresh, local food is more important than ever. This program will help take care of our Portland neighbors who need assistance through this uncertain period.

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit through the Double Up Food Bucks program;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike receive $5 shopping tokens, through the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors and donates it directly to Mainspring. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce within the community and ensures that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.
 

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 24 through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.

###

On May 7^th, 2025, at approximately 10:58 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle that crashed into two parked cars near NE 14^th Court and NE Minnehaha Street in Vancouver.

Deputies arrived at the scene and began an investigation. Deputies believed that the driver was possibly impaired and conducted a DUI investigation. 

As part of the investigation, the subject was arrested and transported to the Washington State Patrol Scale House at 29317 Interstate-5 in Ridgefield, WA. The facility has a room equipped with a breath alcohol analyzer used for evidential breath alcohol measurements in DUI investigations.

They arrived at the Scale House at approximately 11:33 p.m. While in the breath test room at the Scale House facility, at around 11:58 p.m., a CCSO deputy reported over the radio that he was actively in a physical altercation with the subject. The deputy reported that the subject had attempted to take his firearm during the altercation, and the deputy stabbed the suspect several times.

CCSO deputies, with the assistance of other agencies, attempted to provide first aid to the subject. A Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue ambulance arrived at the location. 

The subject was pronounced deceased at the scene at 12:39 a.m. on May 8th, 2025.

The CCSO deputy was not physically injured. The deputy is now on Critical Incident Leave, per standard protocol.  

The information is preliminary, and this is an ongoing investigation. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office notified the Washington State Office of Independent Investigations (OII), which will investigate the incident.  

As part of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Body-Worn Camera (BWC) Program, video captured by body-worn cameras and in-car cameras will be reviewed and released at a later time. 

In compliance with WAC 139-12, Clark County Sheriff’s Office personnel will not be involved in the independent investigation. 

• All future communications will be sent via the OII. 

• The OII will release the name of the involved deputy. 

• The identity of the deceased and cause and manner of death can be requested through the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

• Once the OII investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office for review.         

No further information is available at this time. 

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a May 2, 2025 apartment fire in Vancouver.

This individual was found on 05/02/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Peterkin, Megan   Age: 38 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: Decedent’s residence

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: 05/07/2025

On May 7th, 2025, a Marion County jury found Terrance Quackenbush-Benson, 29, guilty of two counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree, two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, one count each of Assault in the Second Degree and Third Degree, one count of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, and one count of Reckless Driving.

The charges resulted from a September 16, 2024, incident where Quackenbush-Benson drove his truck across the center line and collided head-on with a truck traveling in the opposite direction.  At the time of the incident, Quakenbush-Benson was under the influence of an inhalant. The driver and passenger died upon impact.  A third passenger survived the crash but suffered serious physical injuries.  She is still recovering.

Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart presided over the five-day trial. The State was represented by Marion County Deputy District Attorneys Katharine Semple and Melissa Roberts.

Quakenbush-Benson is scheduled to be sentenced on May 13, 2025, at 4pm. 

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 05/08/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS May 8, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/86346138790
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

TUALATIN, Ore. — The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) condemns the Trump administration’s sudden move to dissolve the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC). According to a May 6, 2025, report from NBC News, committee members learned last week that their 30-year-old panel had been terminated, despite having produced hundreds of evidence-based guidelines that hospitals and clinics rely on every day to keep patients and caregivers safe. Further coverage in The Hill confirmed the action is part of a broader effort to shrink public-health oversight.

HICPAC’s recommendations form the backbone of infection-prevention practices in Oregon and across the nation, informing everything from isolation protocols and hand-hygiene standards to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The committee’s work is indispensable to nurses who confront antibiotic-resistant bacteria, seasonal surges of respiratory illness, and potential future pandemics. Its abrupt removal strips health-care facilities of the expert playbook they need to stop minor infections from becoming deadly outbreaks.

“Healthcare workers remember what happens when politics overrides science,” said ONA President Tamie Cline, RN. “Eliminating HICPAC will drive up infection rates, prolong hospital stays, increase costs, and, most importantly, cost lives. Calling the committee ‘unnecessary’ insults every nurse and caregiver who has fought to keep patients safe through COVID-19 surges, RSV spikes, and emergent superbugs.”

ONA calls on President Trump, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and CDC acting director Susan Monarez to immediately reinstate HICPAC and fully fund its critical work. HICPAC and other essential advisory panels must remain free from extreme political interference. 

###

On Friday, May 2, 2025, detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Cornelius Fred Meyer and the Cornelius Walmart to combat organized retail crimes.

During the mission, detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and uniformed patrol deputies worked with asset protection staff to identify people engaging in thefts at Fred Meyer and Walmart stores within the city of Cornelius in Washington County. Eight individuals were taken into custody for theft, criminal mischief, and one outstanding warrant for arrest. The following day, a ninth person was arrested who detectives were investigating for multiple incidents of return fraud at Walmart. Hundreds of dollars of merchandise were recovered from those arrested.

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

Learn more about improving your security system using grant funds by visiting the QR code. 

PORTLAND, Ore.—Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims—especially child victims—and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to be a part of Operation Restore Justice and seek justice for children who have been exploited or abused. A common thread in these cases and many others is that online predators will use any platform on the internet to contact unsuspecting children. These predators often pose as children themselves to trick their would-be victims,” said William M. Narus, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“The FBI has zero tolerance for criminal actors who target the most vulnerable in our community—our children,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Olson. “While we count Operation Restore Justice as a success, our work continues. We will use every resource available to us to pursue those who prey on children, as well as to help victims of abuse access tools to help them heal.”

Three individuals were arrested and charged with federal child exploitation crimes in the District of Oregon as part of Operation Restore Justice.

Robert Andrew Arias, 54, of Salem, Oregon, has been charged by indictment with distributing, receiving and possessing child pornography. He was arrested on April 28, 2025, at his residence in Salem and made his first appearance in federal court the same day. A jury trial is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2025.

Berret J. Brown, 40, of Vida, Oregon, has been charged by indictment with enticing minors, receiving child pornography, using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and transferring obscene matter to a minor. Between July and August 2024, Brown is alleged to have used Snapchat to entice multiple children into producing and sending him sexually explicit videos. Brown is also alleged to have used Roblox, a children’s online video game platform, to connect with minors. On April 30, 2025, Brown made his first appearance in federal court and was ordered detained pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on August 5, 2025.

Michael Joseph Cambalik, 35, of Beaverton, Oregon, has been charged by complaint with sexually exploiting a minor, receiving child pornography and coercing and enticing a minor. In December 2024, Cambalik, posing as a female minor, is alleged to have used Call of Duty, an internet-connected video game, to meet and coerce a then-nine-year-old child to produce and send him sexually explicit photos and videos. On April 30, 2025, Cambalik made his first appearance in federal court and was ordered detained pending his arraignment on May 29, 2025.

Those arrested nationwide are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents at an online safety presentation broadcast from Albany, N.Y.

This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims and raising awareness through community education.

The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

Other online resources:

Electronic Press Kit

Violent Crimes Against Children

How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

# # #

QUARTERLY COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY – DEPOE BAY
 

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 8:30am – 10am for a cup of coffee and a conversation at Pirate Coffee Company (located at 10 Vista St., Depoe Bay, Or 97341).
 

More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
 

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
 

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: May 7, 2025

Suspect in shoplift incident arrested at local park

Salem, Ore. — Ricardo Zepeda-Gonzalez of Salem is in custody at the Marion County Jail on charges of first-degree robbery, unlawful use of a weapon, menacing, and second-degree theft after fleeing the scene of a store theft.

Zepeda-Gonzalez was arrested at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, after leaving The Home Depot at 3795 Hagers Grove RD SE with nearly $800 in merchandise. When approached by store security personnel, witnesses reported Zepeda‑Gonzalez displayed what appeared to be a revolver, then fled the area on foot.

With the assistance of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, a search of the area by drone and police canine team resulted in locating the 40-year-old Zepeda-Gonzalez at nearby Cascades Gateway Park.

Zepeda-Gonzalez is set to be arraigned today at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex at 2:30 p.m.

# # #

Update 5/7/2025 11:00am

Around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies arrested a 31-year-old Vancouver man in connection with an attempted kidnapping that occurred earlier that day.

Cameron Parrish was booked into the Clark County Jail on charges of Attempted Kidnapping in the First Degree, Assault in the First Degree, and a Firearms/Dangerous Weapons Violation.

Earlier in the day, CCSO’s Tactical Detective Unit (TDU) identified a potential suspect while investigating the attempted abduction of a juvenile. As detectives canvassed the neighborhood for surveillance footage, a resident shared video of a vehicle that matched the description provided by the victim. The footage helped detectives determine the make and model of the suspect vehicle.

TDU detectives later located the suspected vehicle, identified the suspect as Parrish, and obtained a search warrant. With the assistance of additional CCSO units, deputies surrounded his residence and safely detained Parrish without incident. Investigators recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the attempted kidnapping.

Parrish and the victim did not know each other. Detectives believe Parrish saw the juvenile walking and approached her. The investigation revealed that the attempted kidnapping appears to have been sexually motivated. This is believed to be an isolated incident.

This remains an active investigation.

On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to reports of an attempted kidnapping near the 500 block of NE 149th Street in Vancouver, WA.

A teenage victim reported that a man armed with a handgun approached her and told her to get in his vehicle. The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s or 30s with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing blue pants and an orange hooded sweatshirt. He was seen driving a newer four-door metallic blue sedan.

CCSO detectives are actively investigating and are seeking any surveillance, dashcam, or doorbell video from the area between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. on May 6, 2025. Anyone with relevant footage is asked to upload it using the QR code link provided with this release or upload here: Evidence Request from Clark County Sheriffs Office

This is an ongoing investigation. No additional details are available at this time.

Vancouver, WA— On May 6, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Vancouver Fire Station 6 was struck by a vehicle while Engine 6 was out of quarters responding to a separate emergency incident.

The Vancouver Fire Department (VFD) and Vancouver Police Department (VPD) were dispatched to the scene. Four VFD units responded with nine personnel. Upon arrival, a single-occupant vehicle with a dog inside was found. The vehicle had veered off the roadway and crashed into the apparatus bay side of Fire Station 6. The vehicle came to rest entangled in a nearby electrified fence, which displayed warning signs indicating a 7,000-volt charge. Due to the potential electrical hazard, firefighters maintained a safe perimeter and verbally assessed the driver. The fence was later determined to be de-energized.

While no injuries were reported, including the dog in the picture, the event underscores the unpredictable nature of emergency service work, even within the walls of our fire stations.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on May 8, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/89558271312?pwd=0DuiKGQw8Dcb1JnpuVtrmpOq7LPWy1.1
Passcode:202618

Five schools will receive cash prizes for special school projects in the 16^th annual

OnPoint Prize campaign awards

PORTLAND, Ore., — May 7, 2025 — Five local schools have won the 2025 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Community Builder awards. Each school will receive a cash prize for a special project that positively impacts its school and community.

OnPoint also named the eight finalists for its Educator of the Year awards. Each are in the running to have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for their school. The four winners in each category (K-5, 6-8, 9-12, and Gold Star) will be announced on May 22, 2025. The remaining four runners-up in each category will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

“Every year, we are proud to uplift the schools and educators who are making a meaningful difference in their communities,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “They’re creating inclusive spaces, restoring vital resources and designing learning experiences that connect students to the world around them. It’s our privilege to celebrate their commitment and extraordinary impact.”

Since 2010, the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $843,000 in prizes to 326 local educators and schools. The 2025 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving K-12 educators and schools.

Learn more about the 2025 Community Builder award winners and Educator of the Year finalists below:

Community Builder Awards
OnPoint has recognized five schools from across the region with its Community Builder awards. Four schools will receive $2,000 from OnPoint for a special project of their choice, and one school determined by online community votes will receive $5,000.

Grand Prize Winner – $5,000 Community Builder Award

Morningside Elementary School – Elevating Every Voice (Salem, Ore.)

As Morningside Elementary’s beloved music program continues to grow, outdated and unstable choir risers have made it difficult—and unsafe—for all students to be seen and heard during performances. Thanks to the $5,000 Community Builder Award, that’s about to change. The funding will allow the school to purchase new, portable risers that ensure every student can take their place with pride during concerts, assemblies and other community celebrations.

$2,000 Community Builder Award Winners

• Abiqua School: Nature Trail: A Path to Outdoor Learning (Salem, Ore.) For students at Abiqua School, the most powerful lessons aren’t always found in textbooks—they’re discovered beneath the trees, along winding paths, and under open skies. With a vision to turn a nearby wooded area into a vibrant outdoor classroom, this project brings science, writing and art into nature’s embrace. The $2,000 award will help clear safe paths, install educational signage, create seating areas, and build interactive learning stations—transforming a quiet forest into a living, breathing extension of the classroom where curiosity can roam free.
• Innovation Academy: Community Garden (Medford School District, Medford, Ore.) With support from local agricultural experts, Innovation Academy is turning part of its expansive acre-and-a-half campus into a thriving garden where students can explore hands-on learning in sustainability, science, and food systems. The $2,000 award will help develop the garden infrastructure and launch student-led projects, allowing young minds to grow alongside the fruits of their labor.
• Sherwood Charter School: H.E.A.R.T Care Closet (Sherwood School District, Sherwood, Ore.) The H.E.A.R.T (Helping Everyone Access Resources Today) Care Closet at Sherwood Charter School helps students show up to school feeling confident, cared for and ready to learn. It provides students and families with essential items like food, hygiene supplies, clothing, school tools and gift cards—all in a welcoming, judgment-free space. The $2,000 award will help stock and sustain this vital resource, ensuring students can access what they need with dignity and continue thriving in and out of the classroom.
• Skyridge Middle School: Skyridge Flood Recovery for Books (Camas School District, Camas, Wash.) When a burst pipe flooded the Skyridge Middle School library, it washed away more than $6,000 worth of books—many of which weren’t covered by insurance. Determined to rebuild their collection, the school is using the $2,000 award to restore and revitalize their nonfiction section with fresh, high-interest titles.   

Educator of the Year Finalists (listed by category, then alphabetically by last name)

OnPoint also named its eight finalists for its 2025 Educators of the Year awards. Winners will have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for each of their schools. The remaining four finalists will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Finalists

• Ricardo Barber – 3rd grade, Faubion Elementary School, Portland Public Schools
• Lisa Lewis – K-1st grade, West Powellhurst Elementary School, David Douglas School District

6-8 Finalists

• Britta Hobbs – 6-8th grade Choir/Music, Covington Middle School, Evergreen Public Schools
• Rhiannon Young – 6-8th grade, Corbett Middle School, Corbett School District

9-12 Finalists

• Sophie Aguirre – 9-12th grade English Language Development, Aloha High School, Beaverton School District
• Katie Ryan – 9-12th grade Science, Academy of Arts and Academics, Springfield School District

Gold Star Finalists (includes pre-kindergarten teachers, school counselors, substitute teachers, librarians, principals or school administrators)

• Hang Jones – Social Worker, Marysville Elementary School, Portland Public Schools
• RJ Tagorda – Principal, Holy Cross Catholic School

Click here to learn more about OnPoint's finalists for the 2025 Educator of the Year awards. Winners and runners-up will be announced on May 22, and the announcement will be broadcast live on KGW.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Visit onpointcu.com to learn more.

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ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 603,000 members and with assets of $9.9 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 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

RELEASE DATE:                May 6, 2025

CASE NUMBER:                 25-18345

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 77-year-old female, Hyun Yeo Park.  Hyun suffers from Dementia and has heart condition.  She was last seen on May 6^th, 2025, at 10:10 A.M.  Hyun left her residence at 4127 SW 14^th Dr.  Due to her mental state, she could be taken advantage of easily.

Hyun is 5 feet tall; 110 pounds with brown eyes, short grey hair and no teeth.  She was last seen wearing black or grey long sleeve shirt with unknown colored, loose pants.

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison Monday for using multiple social media applications to entice a young child to send him sexually explicit images of herself.

Shawn Alan Smith, 44, was sentenced to 288 months in federal prison and a life term of supervised release. Smith was also ordered to pay restitution to his victim.

According to court documents, between July 11 and September 15, 2020, Smith used multiple fake online social media personas, including several on KIK messenger and TikTok, to communicate with a nine-year-old child. While posing as a minor himself, Smith instructed the child victim to take sexually explicit photos of herself and send them to him, which she did. Smith also engaged in a video chat with the child while pretending to be the father of one of his fake online personas. At the time of the offense, Smith was a registered sex offender following prior state criminal convictions for child pornography offenses in Oregon and Maryland.

On March 9, 2022, federal agents executed a search warrant at Smith’s Portland apartment. While the agents were attempting to gain entry to the apartment through a door he had barricaded, Smith threw his phone and computer out his bathroom window. Smith was arrested and charged by federal criminal complaint with production and attempted production of child pornography.

On January 21, 2025, Smith pleaded guilty to a two-count superseding information charging him with online enticement of a minor and receipt of child pornography.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It was prosecuted by Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On April 18, 2025, a Washington County jury found Gerardo Cesar Depaz-Mayorga guilty of unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, sodomy in the first degree, sex abuse in the first degree (two counts), and sex abuse in the second degree (two counts). On May 2, 2025, Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 25 years in prison. Deputy District Attorney Mahalee Streblow prosecuted the case.

On June 10, 2023, the victim was sleeping over at a friend’s house when the defendant entered her room, took advantage of her inebriated state, and sexually assaulted her. The victim was confused and disoriented during this attack. The defendant left the room only to return 20 minutes later to sexually assault her a second time. The victim tried to defend herself and stop the assault, but the defendant continued to force himself on her.
 

The defendant eventually left the room. The victim reported his actions to her friend, who then confronted the defendant. He denied any wrongdoing.

The victim went to the hospital for a sexual assault exam and notified law enforcement. The defendant continued to deny any sexual contact with the victim during his interview with law enforcement. However, after his interview and while the investigation was still active, the defendant called the victim. She recorded the conversation. He admitted to the sexual contact, and the victim was able to provide that recording to law enforcement.

A Washington County Grand Jury indicted the defendant, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. He became aware of this and actively evaded arrest. He failed to turn himself in on two separate occasions before he was eventually arrested.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the bravery of the victim. This office also acknowledges the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on this case.

The defendant will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator

sam.tenney@dpsst.oregon.gov

503-931-4069

Fallen officers honored during annual Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony

SALEM, Ore. — A ceremony held Tuesday, May 6 commemorated law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty in Oregon. The annual Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s fallen officers and those they left behind.

The event was held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, site of the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial. Tuesday’s ceremony remembered three fallen officers whose names were recently added to the memorial: Patrolman Andrew J. Laugeson of the Portland Police Bureau, end of watch May 12, 1917; Policeman George M. Lowe of the Ashland Police Department, end of watch March 3, 1919; and Assistant Chief Merle W. Bethscheider of the Silverton Police Department, end of watch May 29, 1965.

The ceremony was attended by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, elected officials and public safety professionals from throughout the state. In addressing the audience, Governor Kotek paid tribute to the state’s fallen officers, honoring their courage, selflessness, and enduring legacy, while offering her condolences and gratitude to the loved ones they left behind.

“Who we are as people in the face of adversity is an opportunity to be our very best selves. The officers memorialized today met the moment with dignity and heroism and made the ultimate sacrifice,” Governor Kotek Said. “There is no sacrifice more noble, no pledge to the public more honorable, and that extends to their families as well.”

Patrolman Andrew J. Laugeson succumbed died on May 12, 1917 after succumbing to injuries from a fall. Patrolman Laugeson was boarding a streetcar on Mississippi Avenue when he slipped and fell, striking his head on the pavement. He was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital, where he passed away two days later. Patrolman Laugeson had served with the Portland Police Bureau for five years, and was survived by his wife and eight children.

Policeman George M. Lowe on foot patrol in the early morning hours of March 3, 1919, and was struck by a train after it switched tracks. Policeman Lowe succumbed to his wounds instantly. He had served with the Ashland Police Department for seven months and was survived by his wife and five children.

Assistant Chief Merle W. Bethscheider suffered a massive heart attack while in pursuit of a suspect on May 29, 1965. He was survived by his son, his mother, and his brother.

Speaking on behalf of Patrolman Laugeson, Deputy Chief Chris Gjovik of the Portland Police Bureau emphasized that the sacrifices of the officers whose names adorn the wall never fade with time.

“By placing Andrew’s name here, we not only honor his life of sacrifice, but we also reaffirm that no matter how many years pass, we will not forget those who gave everything in the name of public safety,” he said. “Their stories, their service, and their humanity live on in the hearts of those who continue to wear the badge, and in the stone that bears their names.”

The memorial bears the names of the 199 officers who have died in the line of duty since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is honored to host each year in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and Oregon's various statewide law enforcement associations.

Oregon’s memorial ceremony is held ahead of National Police Week events in Washington, D.C. so that family members and coworkers can attend both memorial ceremonies. More than 23,000 officers who have died in the line of duty are honored on the national memorial.

Captain Shane Strangfield of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, president of the Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation Board of Directors, spoke of the duty to preserve the legacy of the fallen and ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten.

“When they took their oath to serve, they made a solemn commitment to the citizens of Oregon,” Captain Strangfield said. “In turn, we made a commitment to them, and to their families, that their sacrifice would never be forgotten.”

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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.

For more information on the Oregon Fallen Law Enforcement Officer Memorial, please visit https://www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Memorials/LawEnforcement/Pages/default.aspx.

(Salem, OR) – This May, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) honors the essential role of resource families and respite providers in creating safe and nurturing environments for children and young adults. In Oregon, adults who care for children experiencing foster care are called resource parents, emphasizing the many important roles they play in supporting children and helping maintain relationships with their biological families and communities.

As Governor Tina Kotek’s proclamation in honor of National Foster Care month states, “Dedicated resource families and relative caregivers work tirelessly to provide children a secure and nurturing environment and give young people in foster care the love, warmth, safety, care and support they need.”

Supportive relationships are particularly important for young people who have experienced trauma and can change the trajectory of a life. According to Harvard’s Center for the Developing Child, supportive and responsive relationships help children develop resilience in the face of adversity.

Resource parents and respite providers play an ongoing supportive role in the life of a child and biological parents both during and after time in foster care. Becoming a resource parent is not the only way to support children and families. ODHS now has a certified respite program, offering a more flexible way to contribute to a child's life while giving resource parents a chance to take a break and recharge. ODHS partners with Every Child to help recruit resource parents, volunteers and respite care providers, and offers a peer mentorship program connecting new resource parents to experienced ones.

According to ODHS, respite providers often find the experience of supporting young people in care enriching and decide to become resource parents. There are 138 active certified respite providers across the state, with 205 providers certified since the launch in 2023. “We hope this program continues to grow to give biological, relative and resource caregivers a break for self-care. But more importantly, this is an opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life, whether as a respite provider or resource parent. Just a few hours a week of quality time with a young person can make a huge difference,” Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner said.

There are many ways to support children and young people experiencing foster care and uplift families involved with Child Welfare. Visit our website, Foster.Oregon.Gov, to learn more, or call 1-800-331-0503 to get involved.

Resources and Volunteer Opportunities

• ODHS Foster Care
• Become a resource parent, provide respite care to families or volunteer in other ways.
• Every Child
• Project Lemonade
• With Love
• Project Never Again
• Court-appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

About the ODHS Child Welfare Program

The Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Program is committed to transforming itself to better support the individual needs of families and to best serve Oregon’s children and young people.

SALEM, Oregon— The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Advisory Committee will meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 20 in Salem to discuss changes to RTP grant scoring criteria, state policies and committee bylaws.

The hybrid meeting is open to the public. The public can attend via Zoom or in person at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, 725 Summer St NE, Room 124A.

Meeting details, including zoom link and agenda, are available online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/Documents/RTP-Agenda-May-2025.pdf.

The grant scoring criteria discussion will help inform the Oregon Statewide Trails Plan, which provides guidance to land managers and partners in Oregon and includes updated grant scoring criteria for RTP. Learn more about the Statewide Trails Plan on our website.

RTP is a federally funded grant program of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program provides funds to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both nonmotorized and motorized uses.

The RTP Advisory Committee consists of 10 members who represent various trail user groups and land managers. Learn more about RTP here.

For more information contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator at 503-856-6316 or ellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov">Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov. If special accommodations are needed to attend the meeting, please contact Jodi Bellefeuille at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

SALEM, Oregon – Oregon Main Street (OMS) just designated the Sutherlin Chamber of Commerce as the new Sutherlin Area Regional Main Street Hub of the Umpqua. They join the two initial pilot Rural Regional Main Street (RRMS) hubs of the Oregon Frontier Chamber of Commerce and Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce (initially housed with Northeast Oregon Economic Development District).
 

“I am absolutely honored and beyond excited for the Sutherlin Area Chamber of Commerce to be designated as the next Oregon Main Street Rural Regional Hub,” said Jessica Cannon, Executive Director, Sutherlin Area Chamber of Commerce. “This opportunity is deeply needed, and this program is powerfully designed to uplift rural communities like ours, strengthening main streets through revitalization, development, networking, and real-time support.  We are filled with pride and ready to hit the ground running!”
 

The Sutherlin Area Regional Main Street Hub of the Umpqua will initially include Sutherlin, Winston, and Oakland.

OMS created the RRMS tier to provide a pathway for rural communities to better connect with the services and support offered by OMS in a structured way that helps these rural communities build and sustain momentum. One of the key features of the RRMS tier is to allow maximum flexibility in how the hubs want to organize to take into account the differences in each region.
 

“Based on the success of working with our initial two pilot regions, we decided to make the RRMS tier a permanent tier in the OMS Network,” said Sheri Stuart, State Coordinator, Oregon Main Street. “In our pilot program, we were able to connect rural communities with some of our resources like the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant that they previously hadn’t accessed. We are very excited to have the Sutherlin Chamber of Commerce see value in joining the Network.”
 

The selection process included submitting a letter of intent to apply last fall and then completing an extensive application that described the communities that are interested in being part of their hub, previous efforts to improve their downtowns, commitment to implementing the Main Street Approach™, board development efforts, partnerships, in addition to other criteria.

The OMS Network provides training and technical services to Oregon communities desiring to strengthen, preserve, and enhance their historic downtown and traditional commercial neighborhood districts. Learn more about Oregon Main Street at www.oregonmainstreet.org.
 

Currently, there are over 100 communities in Oregon participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. There isn’t a fee to participate. Oregon Main Street is part of Oregon Heritage in Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a May 3, 2025 shooting on Southeast French Road in Vancouver.

This individual died on 05/03/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Hupp, Rodney A.   Age: 62 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Gunshot wounds of torso and right thigh

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot

Place of injury: Decedent’s home

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: 05/06/2025

In the early morning of April 30, 2025, Lincoln City Police Officers responded to a burglary alarm at Lee’s Chinese Restaurant. Upon arrival, Officers found the business had been broken into and the suspect(s) had fled. Officers found damage to equipment and property, as well as items stolen. Officers recovered evidence left by the suspect(s), and obtained video footage of a masked suspect burglarizing the business. Detectives were brought in and through further investigation, identified the suspect vehicle and later identified the two involved subjects.  

On May 2, 2025, 38-year old Shanna Marie Martinez and 39-year-old Ontoniel Fuentes Garcia, both of Lincoln City, were taken into custody and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on charges of Burglary 1, Possession of Burglary Tools, Theft 1 and Criminal Conspiracy.  

At the time of his arrest, Fuentes Garcia was out on pretrial release for another burglary charge from an arrest by our agency in September 2024. Since her arrest, LCPD has additionally charged Martinez with two other burglaries involving residential properties in Lincoln City. These incidents are part of an ongoing investigation, and anyone with information related to these incidents should contact Det. Jon Humphreys.

LCPD would like to acknowledge and thank several local businesses and business owners who assisted us with this investigation by sharing security video footage that allowed us to identify and track the suspects in this case.   

As we move into the spring and summer, LCPD encourages business owners and residents to keep their doors and windows locked, and utilize security systems, security cameras and alarms.

Salem, OR — This is National Nurses Week. This year’s theme is the power of nurses. The Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) recognizes the powerful and essential role nurses play in the lives of those they serve in Oregon’s intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) system. The nation is experiencing a shortage of nurses. To help address this shortage in Oregon’s I/DD sector, ODDS launched a campaign to raise awareness about nursing careers in Oregon’s I/DD system in December 2024.

ODDS used American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to contract with Applichat Limited, a recruitment marketing agency, to lead the campaign. Applichat’s research revealed that while disability nursing has many benefits — more flexible schedules, the ability to form strong patient relationships and opportunities for meaningful impact — most nurses don’t know that serving the I/DD community is an option. They are unaware of career opportunities in the disability sector due to gaps in curriculum and public awareness.

“From speaking to nurses, families and healthcare professionals as part of our research, we’ve seen the impact of the disability nursing shortage,” said Adam Chambers, President of Applichat.

Nurses transform the lives of people like Casey Potter. Born with cerebral palsy due to a spinal infarction at birth caused by bacterial meningitis, Casey and his family struggled to find nurses who could provide care at home. But once they found the right support, the impact was profound — not just for Casey, but for his entire family. His mother, Monique Potter, said, “He’s grown so much into his own independence. Now I can just be his mom, not his caregiver.”

ODDS Children’s Services Manager Lisa Tyler said of the campaign’s significance: “For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, nurses are a lifeline to greater independence and personal safety. This campaign is crucial in helping individuals like Casey and his family experience a better quality of life. Many nurses would find this work deeply rewarding.”

To help nurses learn more about careers in the I/DD community, please refer them to the ODDS Nursing Services web page: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/providers-partners/idd/pages/nursing-services.aspx. The page includes information about the three types of nursing positions in the I/DD sector: private duty nursing, direct nursing and long-term care community nursing. It also includes resources for interested nurses, such as a career paths guide for I/DD nursing in Oregon.

To learn more about job openings in the I/DD sector and to apply, go to ImpactOregon.careers.

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity. The Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) strives to support the choices of individuals with disabilities and their families within communities by promoting and providing services that are person-centered and directed, flexible, community-inclusive, and supportive of the discovery and development of each individual’s unique gifts, talents and abilities. We’re committed to working toward service options to ensure that people with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to have lives that are fulfilling and meaningful.

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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Advocacy Organization Calls on Oregon Lawmakers to Keep Their Promise to Fund Foundational Public Health Programs

PORTLAND, Ore. (May 06, 2025) Oregon’s 33 local public health authorities face severe and worsening workforce challenges, limiting their ability to protect the health and safety of Oregon’s 4.2 million residents. 

Those are the findings from a new report issued by the Oregon Coalition of Local Health Officials (CLHO), the advocacy organization for local public health authorities.

The most significant issues include inadequate pay, chronic understaffing, burnout, leadership turnover and a lack of training, recruitment and retention resources. 

“While these are not new challenges, they continue to worsen because of increased work coupled with drastic public health cuts at the federal level as well as chronic underfunding from all levels of government,” says Sarah Lochner, CLHO’s executive director. Ten years ago, Oregon lawmakers promised to fully fund essential public health programs like disease control, environmental health and emergency preparedness. So far, they’ve committed only half of the funding they promised. We’re calling on lawmakers this legislative session to keep their promise to fund these foundational programs.” 

The new report's findings and recommendations come from surveys and focus groups conducted in 2024 with public health administrators and human resource professionals in 29 of Oregon’s 33 public health authorities. 

“The biggest workforce challenges have been reduced budgets, laying off staff and cutting FTE.”

— Jackson Baures, Jackson County Division Manager

Key findings: 

• While the total number of full-time positions has increased since CLHO’s last workforce report in 2021, there are fewer nurses and epidemiologists, especially in rural counties.   
• Although average wages for many positions, including nurses, epidemiologists and administrators increased, wages in public health are still significantly lower than in the private sector, especially for nurses.
•  Inadequate pay, limited advancement opportunities and burnout are the top reasons public health workers leave their jobs.
• There is significant turnover among public health leadership. Between 2020-21, 16 public health administrators left their positions. Since then, another 17 have left.
• Many new hires lack basic public health training and skills needed to do their jobs.
• Counties struggle to recruit and retain qualified candidates due to limited resources; a lack of measurable diversity, equity and inclusion hiring goals; and a lack of affordable housing.

Key recommendations:

• Invest in competitive, sustainable compensation by increasing state funding and encouraging local investments.
• Fund tuition, scholarship, mentorship and leadership development programs in partnership with educational institutions.
• Expand job outreach by posting openings on culturally specific job platforms and through local and tribal colleges, particularly those serving historically excluded groups. 
• Offer recruitment incentives such as relocation assistance, housing assistance and sign-on bonuses.
• Create and implement a statewide DEI hiring framework.
• Develop a centralized, publicly accessible onboarding “Public Health Essentials Toolkit” that could be adapted to fit the specific needs of the local workforce.
• Build capacity among staff to assume leadership positions.  

The report concludes by stressing the importance of sustained funding increases to ensure that the public health workforce is prepared for the next pandemic, disease outbreak or environmental disaster. 

“We don’t wait until there is a fire to ask for funding for the local fire department. Their funding structure allows them to respond immediately when a fire starts. We should fund public health the same way–if we have to wait for another public health emergency to receive funding for essential programs, more people will suffer and more people will die, said CLHO Chair Philip Mason-Joyner, who oversees public health and health and human services in Clackamas County.

To get a copy of the full report or arrange an interview, please email info@oregonclho.org

CLHO is asking state lawmakers to invest an additional $65.2 million per biennium in local public health. Read about CLHO’s 2025 legislative priorities here.

WHEN: Tuesday morning, May 13, 2025

TIME: 11 a.m. to noon

WHERE: Scappoose Airport, Airport Road and Skyway Drive, Scappoose, OR 97056

WHAT: Oregon Dept. of Forestry has contracted with Canby-based Valley Environmental to bring their air curtain incinerator to Scappoose Airport to help safely burn piles of invasive English hawthorn trees that had been cleared from around oak trees.

• The clearance will restore the oak woodland and reduce fire risk.
• The air curtain incinerator reduces smoke by more than 90 percent compared to conventional debris pile burning, making it easier to burn close to protected airsheds like the Willamette Valley.
• Debris pile burning is the number one source of human-caused wildfires. Burning in an air curtain incinerator eliminates that danger because there are no debris pile embers left that could reignite later on and start a wildfire.

VISUALS:

• A loader machine feeding piles of invasive hawthorn into an air curtain incinerator (burn box is open to the sky) with open flames but relatively little smoke.
• Cleared understory in an oak woodland where invasive English hawthorn has been removed, freeing the Oregon white oak trees to grow.

SOUNDS: Fan that blows air over the wood fed into the incinerator to make it burn hotter and cleaner. Noise as debris is fed into the incinerator.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES: With ODF staff and the incinerator owner who can talk about the benefits of using an air curtain incinerator over pile burning, and Columbia Soil and Water Conservation District staff who can talk about the importance of clearing invasives in order to restore oak woodland and reduce wildfire risk. A biochar advocate will also be available on site.

RSVP: Please let Public Affairs Officers Jim Gersbach or Crystalyn Bush know if you plan to attend. They will be on site with local colleagues to help with interviews, filming and recording.

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Exemption specialists available to help property owners sign up for program

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Assessor’s office property tax exemption specialists will be available to answer questions and enroll property owners in the county’s property tax relief program at an upcoming event in Washougal.

The Tax Exemption Program for senior citizens and people with disabilities can reduce property tax liability for qualifying homeowners. Eligibility is based on age or disability, home ownership, residency, and income. Participants are not required to repay the taxes, and their homes are not subject to property liens.

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants at Washougal Community Center, 1681 C St. from 9 am to 1 pm Friday, May 16.

To schedule an appointment for the enrollment event, call 564.397.2391 or email eduction@clark.wa.gov">taxreduction@clark.wa.gov. Walk-ins also are welcome. Homeowners interested in attending should bring photo ID, federal tax return, W-2 and/or 1099, and any deduction documentation. 

Learn more about the program and apply online at https://assessor-property-tax-exemption-program-clarkcountywa.hub.arcgis.com/.

Gresham, Ore.— What began as a suspicious circumstance call is now a homicide investigation.  Gresham Police were dispatched to a mobile home park in the 2600 block of NE 201^st Ave on Monday morning.  Responding officers found 22-year-old Ahanu Johnson dead at the scene.  The East County Major Crimes Team was activated to investigate Johnson’s death.  Detectives have now confirmed Johnson’s death is a homicide. 

Police are asking anyone with information about Johnson’s whereabouts or activities on May 4^th or 5^th to contact Detective Tyson Conroy at oy@GreshamOregon.gov">Tyson.Conroy@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Isaac Hibbs at bs@GreshamOregon.gov">Isaac.Hibbs@GreshamOregon.gov.

Thanks again for helping us KEEP THE PROMISE!

The Lake Oswego Lions Club and VisionEnvoy Club Branch will
host their 76th Annual Pancake Breakfast at George Rogers Park,
611 S State Street, Lake Oswego, on Friday, July 4th, from 7:00
a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This legendary event is part of the 'Keep The
Promise' (KTP) Days series, which celebrates and raises funds
for the Oregon Lions Clubs and the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing
Foundation (OLSHF) as they work together to “KEEP THE
PROMISE” to provide sight and hearing services to those in need.
This promise was made to American author and deaf-blind activist
Helen Keller 100 years ago at an International Lions Convention,
where she challenged Lions to focus on preventable sight and
hearing issues as their primary mission.
It's the “Changing the World WE SERVE" event everybody is
waiting for! This is our Club's biggest, family-friendly fun(d)raising
event of the year! "By being involved in this event as a volunteer,
sponsor, or participant, you support the many philanthropic efforts
of LOLC and our VisionEnvoy Club Branch,” said LO Lions Club
President, Sharon Rollins. Please bring your family and friends
(Note: Dogs are not allowed on Athletic Fields unless authorized
by the City Parks Director) and celebrate this 76-year tradition
together at George Rogers Park, 611 S State Street in Lake
Oswego, on the 4th of July. Enjoy all the hot coffee, cold milk,
orange juice, and delicious pancakes and sausage you can eat
for only $10 ($7 for children under 12). You'll enjoy the company
of all of your neighbors, including (drum roll, please) Rae Gordon!

This multi-award-winning singer and her band will be serving up
rollicking patriotic selections in a potent stew of gritty blues and
heartfelt soul!

Get the details on how to be a volunteer, sponsor, or participant
and/or make an online donation on our website:
https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/lakeoswegoor/index.php
or contact Lion Bonnie Roeder at: bonnieroeder@comcast.net

About OLSHF & the Lions of Oregon
The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) serves
communities statewide. Since their formation in 1959, they have
created programs in response to the need for sight and hearing
assistance and partnered with medical professionals for
discounted rates. They have built upon the promise made to
Helen Keller by creating a continuum of care for people who lack
access to vision and hearing services. Learn more at
www.olshf.org or www.facebook.com/olshf.

About Lions Clubs International:
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization
in the world. Our 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs
provide humanitarian service in more than 200 countries and
geographical areas around the globe. Since 1917, Lions clubs
have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth
initiatives, and strengthened communities through hands-on
service and humanitarian projects. For more information about
Lions Clubs International, visit www.lionsclubs.org.

# # #
https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/parks-rules

On March 21, 2025, at about 1100 hours, a civilian vigilante group called 911 to report a sexual predator sting that they were conducting. See press release here: https://bit.ly/3GIvJ71

The vigilante group reported to be confronting the alleged perpetrator inside the Albany Walmart store. Dispatch informed the caller, as per Department directive, Albany Police officers were not going to respond without further imperative information. The caller advised they were confronting the alleged perpetrator anyway. Sgt. Bell, the Watch Supervisor at the time, and APD officers were informed through dispatch that the suspect, Charles Mellick, had a felony arrest warrant and immediately responded to apprehend the suspect on the confirmed arrest warrant, which they did. Taking the suspect into custody on a confirmed arrest warrant would allow Sgt. Bell and his officers to receive and analyze the vigilante group’s allegations and evidence.

It is best practice and this Department’s procedure for APD officers to vet the investigation on its merits, ascertain if there is probable cause to support an arrest, and if so, develop a plan to safely apprehend the offender while upholding the laws and procedures of the criminal justice system. The vigilante group wanted the arrest of the sexual predator in their sting immediately, and when that did not occur, the group wrongfully accused Sgt. Bell and his officers of the Albany Police Department of not investigating the criminal case of online corruption (their operation).

The vigilante group then created a scene at Walmart and later accused the police of being “pedophile protectors”. Due to the disruption, the store employee(s) requested the group be trespassed from the store, which was relayed to the vigilante group by APD officers at the scene. The vigilante group then responded to the Albany Police Department and demanded a case number and an explanation for not investigating the case to their satisfaction. Sgt. Bell attempted to explain the reporting process, provided business cards containing emails and QR codes in order to submit their allegations and evidence.

These interactions were filmed and posted on social media, and portions were livestreamed to fuel their viral content, but often make legal justice harder to attain. The content was edited to support their accusations, which was later released on their website. Despite the fact Sgt. Bell and his officers followed all policies and procedures, misinformation and sensationalism resulted in aggressive online and phone harassment of APD officers and professional staff.

We understand society’s frustration with the gravity of crimes against children and sentencing practices in our State, but these crimes must be investigated thoroughly and relentlessly to get the criminal justice outcome we all want. If proper procedures are not followed these delicate cases could potentially result in the inability to prosecute the offender.

On May 5, 2025, Charles Mellick (34), the suspect in this case, was arrested after APD’s own thorough investigation. Charles Mellick has been in custody continuously since his arrest on 03/21/25.  This is an example of how to investigate these cases correctly by lawfully, objectivity, and thoroughly pursuing evidence, so that accused perpetrators are held accountable, and victims have an opportunity for justice. Charles Mellick has been arrested for Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree and Second Degree as detectives believe Charles Mellick violated elements of both crimes on multiple days between March 16, 2025, and March 21, 2025. 

An Albany Police detective immediately began investigating this case.  The detective conducted several interviews and applied for multiple search warrants which led to the seizure of credible evidence.  Charles Mellick initiated online communication with whom he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.  The evidence showed he gave a verbal description or narrative account of sexual conduct he wanted to do with the purported 13-year-old girl.  Charles Mellick agreed to and willingly traveled from Corvallis, Benton County, OR to meet with the 13-year-old and engage in sexual contact.  Additional crimes, however, were also uncovered during the in-depth investigation which may lead to further criminal charges as the investigation continues.

Chief Marcia Harnden confirms, “Our officers acted appropriately and followed best practices.  We investigate these crimes the right way to bring about justice, not make money on social media platforms.” This is an example of how to investigate these cases correctly by lawfully, objectively, and thoroughly pursuing evidence, so that offenders are held accountable, and victims have an opportunity for justice.  Charles Mellick is currently being held in the Benton County Jail. 

                                                                                                                                                       #    #    #              

The Imagination Library of Oregon is now available across all 36 counties and zip codes

SALEM, ORE. – The Imagination Library of Oregon welcomed the Lower Umpqua Library in Reedsport as the 57^th Local Program Partner, making it possible for families in Reedsport and Gardiner to register children under 5 to receive free books by mail each month. To make this coverage possible, the Lower Umpqua Library partnered with the Reedsport Rotary Foundation and was funded by a generous grant from the Oregon Community Foundation. 

“Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library isn’t just about books – it’s about fostering relationships between caring adults and children that spark the joy of reading at an early age,” Governor Tina Kotek emphasized. “This program is essential to improve our literacy outcomes and helps make sure every Oregon student, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to develop a love of reading before they ever step into a classroom."

The Imagination Library is a book gifting program developed by The Dollywood Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Dolly Parton. Since launching in 1995, the Imagination Library has become the preeminent, international early childhood literacy program. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by mailing books each month to children (0-5 yrs. old), free of charge to families, through funding shared by Dolly, the State of Oregon, and local community partnerships.

“This is an incredible milestone.  The goal of the statewide expansion was to ensure that children ages 0-5 in every zip code in Oregon have access to books. With the addition of Reedsport, that goal has been achieved,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “By expanding the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, we’re helping more young children across the state build early literacy skills and develop a lifelong love of reading – no matter where they live or what their background may be.”

During the 2023 legislative session, under Senate Bill 5506, $1.7 million was appropriated to DELC to help administer and expand the program statewide. Today, the program is already having a significant reach and impact. Currently, 65,000 Oregonian children are enrolled in the Imagination Library, which translates to approximately 30% of all children under the age of five.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to fall in love with reading, no matter their zip code or family income,” said Majority Leader Ben Bowman, who successfully championed the library going statewide. “The Imagination Library is one of the most effective tools we have to close early literacy gaps and invest in Oregon’s future."

Primary caregivers of children ages 0-5 can sign up to receive a new book each month by mail at no cost to families. Children can be registered as early as birth and will receive books monthly until their 5^th birthday month.  “It’s a wonderful way for families to build routines and cherished memories together,” said Imagination Library of Oregon, Community Engagement Coordinator, Kaylee Chrystal. 

To learn more about the Imagination Library, or to enroll your child, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/oregon. To view Dolly Parton's video remarks from the Oregon launch, please visit the DELC website.  

###

About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care

The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC. You can also connect with DELC on Facebook or sign up for news alerts and updates.

About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 200 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community Partners.  The Imagination Library mails more than 3  million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five - at no cost to families.  Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More®.

The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.

The 59^th annual Parade of Bands! Is set for Saturday, May 17^th, and features 24 area High School Bands and over 120 entries.

The parade starts at Clark County Fire District’s Station 61 and winds around the streets of Hazel Dell.  As such, a number of streets will start closing at about 9:30 a.m. on May 17^th.  The parade usually wraps up around 1 p.m., until then motorists should plan alternate routes.

I’ve attached a map of the parade route.

There’s still time to register to participate.  Registration closes May 10^th, 2025.  Registration packets can be picked up and dropped off at Minuteman Press, 7415 NE Highway 99, Vancouver, WA.

You can find more information about the band at the website of the Hazel Dell Salmon Creek Business Association.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Reaches Statewide Milestone in Oregon

Salem, OR – 05/06/2025 – The Imagination Library of Oregon has welcomed our 57^th Local Program Partner, the Lower Umpqua Library and the Reedsport Rotary Foundation in Douglas County, making it possible for families in Reedsport and Gardiner to register their children under 5 to receive free books by mail each month. This marks a significant milestone for the Imagination Library of Oregon, which is now available in every county and zip code in our state!

Lower Umpqua Library Director, Alex Kuestner, says “we’re excited to make Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library available in our area, this will be a wonderful resource for local families!”

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Lower Umpqua Library to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Reedsport and Gardiner. Since its inception, the Reedsport Rotary Foundation has been committed to supporting the education of the children and youth of our area,” says Kristen Zetzsche of the Reedsport Rotary Foundation.

A generous grant from the Betsy Priddy Fund of Oregon Community Foundation made this coverage possible. “We are deeply proud to support Dolly Parton’s efforts to help all Oregon children learn to read,” says Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “Partnerships like this one create high quality learning opportunities for our youngest Oregonians in every corner of our state.”

“Seeing people come together to help the Imagination Library of Oregon reach this milestone is inspiring!” says Laurie McNichols, Imagination Library of Oregon State Director. “DPIL is a global program, but at our core we have always been, and will always be, grassroots. We are so excited to welcome the Lower Umpqua Library, with support from the Reedsport Rotary Foundation and funding from Oregon Community Foundation.”

In May of 2024, the State of Oregon, via the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), partnered with The Dollywood Foundation to launch the expansion of the Imagination Library of Oregon, providing a 50% funding match to help cover the cost of books and mailing. With this new partnership in place, the State of Oregon committed to making the Imagination Library accessible across the state as well as growing enrollment so more children could receive books and learn to love reading.

“This is an incredible milestone. The goal of the statewide expansion was to ensurethat children ages 0-5 in every zip code in Oregon have access to books. With the addition of Reedsport, that goal has been achieved,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “By expanding the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, we’re helping more young children across the state build early literacy skills and develop a lifelong love of reading – no matter where they live or what their background may be.”

"Every child deserves the opportunity to fall in love with reading, no matter their zip code or family income,” says Majority Leader Ben Bowman, Chief Sponsor of the bill that made the state match a reality. “The Imagination Library is one of the most effective tools we have to close early literacy gaps and invest in Oregon’s future."

Currently, 65,000 Oregon children are enrolled in the Imagination Library, which is approximately 30% of all children under the age of five in our state. The program is free for all families. Children can be registered as early as birth to receive new, high-quality, age-appropriate books addressed to them in the mail each month until their fifth birthday.

“Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library isn’t just about books – it’s about fostering relationships between caring adults and children that spark the joy of reading at an early age,” Governor Tina Kotek emphasizes. “This program is essential to improve our literacy outcomes and helps make sure every Oregon student, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to develop a love of reading before they ever step into a classroom."

A love of books and reading offers the foundation for literacy skills that prepare children for success in school and life. The Imagination Library levels the playing field for all children by helping them build their own home libraries and encouraging increased interactions with family members around books and reading. “It’s a wonderful way for families to build routines and cherished memories together,” says Kaylee Chrystal, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Imagination Library of Oregon.

To learn more as Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library expands across Oregon, or to enroll your child, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/oregon.

About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 250 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community and State Partners. The Imagination Library mails more than 3 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five - at no cost to families.  Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More.

The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.

About the Lower Umpqua Library District - Reedsport, Oregon

The Lower Umpqua Library serves a rural district on the Oregon Coast, which traces its roots back to 1920 when the first library was established in Reedsport. In 1982, the community raised funds to build our current library building in the heart of downtown Reedsport. In 2017, the Douglas County Library System, of which we were a part, closed. Our dedicated volunteers and board worked hard to rescue materials from the old county system and keep the Reedsport library open. They rallied the community to pass a special tax district for northwestern Douglas County (including Reedsport, Gardiner, Winchester Bay, Scottsburg, and the rural hinterland), providing an independent financial basis to resume normal operations. Currently, our library has five employees and numerous dedicated volunteers. Recent projects to expand the library’s collection and reach include specialty sections (such as Classics, Pacific Northwest, and World Languages) and five neighborhood library bookcases, which we have installed throughout our district.

###

Contact: Laurie McNichols, State Director, Imagination Library of Oregon, LMcNichols@or.imaginationlibrary.com 

Contact: Alex Kuestner, Library Director, Lower Umpqua Library, akuestner@luld.org

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications, Oregon Community Foundation, ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org/503-720-3112

Contact: Kristen Zetzsche, Reedsport Rotary Foundation, isten@rchog.org">kristen@rchog.org

The following individuals were arrested on the Portland State University campus Monday evening:

Levi M. Ewing, 27, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Emery R. Hall, 34, Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree

Chiara L. Jacob, 24, Harassment

Brian P. Michaelis, 20, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Garrett W. Redmond, 25, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

PPB would like to acknowledge and thank PSU, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, and other city bureaus for their collaboration during this event.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

Five people were arrested during an event on the Portland State University campus.

On Monday, May 5, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., personnel with PSU’s Campus Public Safety Office requested PPB’s assistance with crowd control outside the Smith Memorial Student Union where an event not affiliated with the university was taking place. Over the course of the next hour-and-a-half, PPB officers arrested five individuals for various crimes. Once these individuals are processed, their names and charges will be disseminated.

PPB would like to thank PSU, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, and other municipal bureaus for assistance with this event.

###PPB###

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College’s relationship with LAIKA Studios is in full motion.

PCC’s Multimedia Program announced a new associate degree in Animation and Motion Graphics that has just been approved by the state of Oregon and accreditors, which will be available to students beginning fall term of 2025.

Last year, a collaboration between PCC and LAIKA was announced that included a two-year $60,000 pledge from LAIKA to the PCC Foundation. This contribution supports PCC’s LAIKA scholarship and program funds that provide a stop motion lab, equipment and supplies like software and tools for puppet making fabrication. Another key component is the Oregon Film Office/LAIKA Summer Internship that is open to PCC students.

LAIKA funding also supports the curriculum and the new associate degree in Animation and Motion Graphics that will enhance educational opportunities for aspiring animators in Oregon. The degree provides students a comprehensive curriculum offering that blends traditional and digital animation techniques. Through co-created studios and industry-standard facilities, students gain hands-on experience and practical skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

“We are so excited to be partnering with LAIKA and its innovative production studio,” said Erik Fauske, PCC multimedia instructor. “The scholarship donations and program funds will provide financial support to incoming students and equitable access to cutting edge industry tools.”

In addition to financial support, LAIKA provides valuable insights and feedback to shape the program’s direction and curriculum. Through annual updates and advising sessions, the studio plays an integral role in guiding students towards industry success.

In April, the college and the studio hosted a portfolio review at the Cascade Campus to advise the students' creations. Aspiring student filmmakers, animators, and digital storytellers -- many dreaming of a future with LAIKA -- are a segment of aspiring workers that the studio can recruit and hire from.

“LAIKA’s curriculum feedback, portfolio support and guidance on workflow will impact students to be job ready with relevant skills,” Fauske added. “At Multimedia, we provide an eclectic array of classes in many areas of production and we are so excited to enhance our animation, visual effects, and motion graphic curriculum.”

LAIKA assistant cameraperson and PCC alum Anna Terpening represented LAIKA to assist in inspiring the current crop of students. Just two years ago, the Banks native was a multimedia student at PCC, balancing assignments and work. Her break came during a competitive three-month production internship with LAIKA where she obtained up close access to all the departments and met co-workers from all around the studio.

“I was really blessed by folks that helped me and gave me opportunities to learn,” said Terpening, who earned her associate degree in Multimedia in 2023. “They believed in me. And I worked really hard to learn about anything that I didn't know, or had questions about, and tried to be as helpful as I could with my position.”

Terpening credits PCC for giving her the tools to succeed.

“I got hands-on experience with lighting, dollies, jibs—real-world skills,” she said. “I even picked up paid gigs while still in school, which helped build my resume and confidence.”

Her advice to aspiring creatives who want a way into the field: “It's not glamorous, but being diligent in what you are doing, treating people well, and being an eager learner leaves a bigger impact.” 

For more information, visit https://www.pcc.edu/programs/multimedia/

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 53,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

###

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is preparing to pave and preserve streets across 20 neighborhoods this summer. Vancouver has more than 1,900 lane miles of paved streets. Each year, surface conditions are evaluated to select streets for the City’s Pavement Management Program, find cost-effective methods to extend pavement life and provide better traveling conditions. The program will invest approximately $13.4 million in planning, design and construction to improve pavement conditions throughout the community. The City’s Street Fund, General Fund and license fees collected through the City’s Transportation Benefits District, provide the main source of funding for this annual program.

This year’s program will pave or preserve several major corridors including portions of Main Street as part of the Main Street Promise project, Northeast Andresen Road, Southeast Evergreen Highway and sections on both West and Northeast Fourth Plain Boulevard. About 16 lane miles of street surfaces will be paved and over 60 lane miles will be preserved.

Resurfacing rehabilitation focuses on residential streets with poor pavement conditions. Rehabilitation paving is planned for streets within the Rose Village, Vancouver Heights and Oakbrook neighborhoods.

Pavement preservation work to extend the life of streets ­­alternates between the east and west sides of the city each year. These preservation treatments help keep good streets in good condition at a much lower cost than resurfacing. For 2025, west Vancouver will see work along East McLoughlin Boulevard, East 29th Street, East 33rd Street, Northeast Andresen Road, Northeast Fourth Plain Boulevard and Northeast 104th Avenue. Crews will also return to the Airport Green neighborhood to complete preservation treatment postponed from last year. Various neighborhood streets within the Hudson’s Bay, Edgewood Park, Harney Heights (East 13th Street), West Minnehaha (Northeast 41st Circle), Meadow Homes (Carlson Road), Green Meadows, Ogden, Burton Ridge and Marrion neighborhoods will receive preservation treatment.

Curb ramps at approximately 125 locations along the project routes will be upgraded to current standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to improve mobility for all. Federal requirements mandate that curb ramps be upgraded along streets receiving treatments that are considered an alteration, such as paving, microsurfacing or cape sealing. Fifty curb ramps in the Rose Village neighborhood will be upgraded to enhance pedestrian access, along with improvements to curb entrances at 26 alleys.

Several steps can be expected before pavement work begins on the street. In preparation for the coming work, street tree and vegetation pruning along identified streets has begun and will continue through June to help clear the way for construction equipment. Construction of ADA-compliant curb ramps, pavement repairs and sealing of street cracks also takes place before paving and preservation work. 

Throughout the process, residents and businesses along the project corridors will receive notices with details about work hours, parking restrictions, closures and more. Community members are encouraged to watch for signage and flaggers during construction, alerting travelers to slow down and be prepared for brief delays. Community members are encouraged to watch for signage and flaggers during construction, alerting travelers to slow down and be prepared for brief delays.

More information about the 2025 Pavement Management Program is available online at cityofvancouver.us/pavement. Questions can be emailed to the program team at pwpavementmanagement@cityofvancouver.us. Tentative schedules will be posted in advance of street work. Pavement work is highly weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On May 1, 2025, a Washington County jury found Megan Elizabeth Meek guilty of assault in the second degree. Deputy District Attorney Matt Wise prosecuted this case before Judge Theodore Sims.
 

On March 13, 2023, the defendant and her fiancé, Bret Mitchell Hollmann, began their day by smoking fentanyl pills that Mr. Hollman had purchased. Their two-year-old daughter was with them. Later that day, they planned to take the child to a babysitter so they could go shopping. They stopped at an area business along the way. Ms. Meek then went inside to make a purchase. When she returned to the vehicle, she put her bag containing multiple fentanyl pills and other drug paraphernalia in the backseat within reach of the toddler. The child was able to gain access to the pills and swallowed several of them.
 

When they arrived at their ultimate destination, the defendant and Mr. Hollmann noticed the child was actively overdosing on fentanyl. When officers from the Beaverton Police Department arrived, the child was unconscious, not breathing, and had no detectable pulse. The pair told officers that the child needed to have her stomach pumped because she had swallowed the fentanyl pills.
 

Officers administered two doses of Narcan to the child and saved her life, but she overdosed again once she reached the hospital due to the sheer amount of fentanyl in her system. Hospital staff had to put the victim on a Narcan drip for a full day to keep her alive.
 

Mr. Hollmann admitted to officers that he purchased the fentanyl pills. He was caught smoking additional fentanyl at the hospital while his daughter was undergoing treatment and was removed from the facility. He was later sentenced to four years in prison after he pleaded guilty to assault in the third degree and unlawful possession of a schedule II controlled substance – substantial quantities.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the life-saving efforts of the Beaverton Police Department, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, and hospital staff.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 20, 2025. 

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a shooting involving a juvenile in the city of Willamina.

Upon arrival, deputies determined that a 10-year-old child had sustained a single gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel provided immediate care on scene, and the child was subsequently transported by LifeFlight to a Portland-area hospital for further treatment.

The incident remains under investigation. At this time, no further details are being released to protect the privacy of the juvenile and the family.  There is no known threat to the community.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office at (503) 434-7506.

Klamath County, Ore. 5 May 2025- On Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 12:23 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 58, at the intersection with Crescent Lake Highway, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated northbound Yamaha TW200 motorcycle, operated by Terryl Thomas Ball (47) of Crescent Lake Junction, entered Highway 58 from Crescent Lake Highway and struck the side of a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Hattan Seraj Alotaibi (32) of Clackamas.

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

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

The highway was impacted for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Cascades Central Fire, Crescent Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Josephine County, Ore. 5 May 2025- On Friday, May 2, 2025, at 9:08 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 35, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by William Robert Murhpy (37) of Cave Junction, crossed over the northbound lane, entered a pullout area, and left the improved portion of the roadway. The operator traveled into a ditch and struck a tree.

The operator (Murphy) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Illinois Valley 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.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Second Budget Committee Meeting on Wednesday, May 7, 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: Committee questions & answers, discussion and possible action to approve the 25-26 fiscal year budget as presented & appropriate funds, levy taxes and categorize funds   

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

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

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Artwork from local artists Jason Litts and Allan Oliver is currently on display at the Rebecca Anstine Gallery. The show will run through the end of June.

The gallery is on the sixth floor of the Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. It is open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

Artist statements:

Jason Litts

Jason Litts is an autodidactic artist with an eye towards the surreal. The Pacific Northwest is a source of inspiration for most of his work. Litts' piece in the current show is triptych entitled “Beyond the Grasp."

The hard hat diver symbolizes an attempt to insulate against the environment. To explore areas where we feel vulnerable and exposed. These treacherous arenas are both external and internal. 

The triptych is composed using glazing techniques of Prussian Blue, Cadmium Orange and Titanium White. 

Allan Oliver

I connect water with health and happiness. An example of this consciousness is the way I repeat the words “love”, “grace”, “gratitude”, “acceptance” and “peace” during my swimming workout. Both in body and spirit, my experience with water is deep. Maybe it’s inevitable that I’d be drawn strongly to liquid acrylic art since physical interactions of water and paint make it possible.

After a fifty-year career in art and design, I’ve learned something new, energized by watery paint, applied and manipulated in many fascinating ways. By its nature, liquid acrylic art is abstract, but I plan and choose colors and composition to achieve significance and meaning. The combination of intention, discipline and magic keeps me working in the studio and helps maintain my sense of wonder and contact with God.

EUGENE, Ore. – Sixteen different speakers and panelists are now confirmed for Oregon’s Urban and Community Forestry Conference on May 15 in Eugene. The conference’s theme is Growing Together: Collaboration and Diverse Voices in Urban Forestry.

Keynote speaker is Christine Carmichael, PhD, founder of Fair Forest Consulting, LLC, of Lansing, Michigan, who will address historic, current and future trends regarding diversity in urban forestry.

The conference is put on by the non-profit organization Oregon Community Trees in partnership with the Oregon Department of Forestry and USDA Forest Service. Co-presenting sponsors are OUR Community Forestry and Portland Urban Forestry. The one-day conference will be held again this year downtown at Venue 252.

Also scheduled to speak are:

• Mike Oxendine, founder of OUR Community Forestry based in Talent, Ore. He’ll describe the strategies propelling the organization to rapid, sustainable growth and the programs making an impact in southern Oregon.
• Jacklyn Lim and Frankie Thompson with Portland Urban Forestry. They’ll explain how Portland leverages COBID-certified contractors to expand the city’s tree canopy in low-income, low-canopy neighborhoods.
• Gena Gastaldi of Portland Bureau of Transportation will talk about how the bureau is working with Portland Urban Forestry to pilot planting street trees in the parking zone of a low-canopy, low-income neighborhood.
• Brittany Oxford and Hilary Olivos-Rood from the Oregon Department of Forestry will share their agency’s experiences building relationships with Oregon Tribal communities, including successes, limitations, and opportunities for growth. They will be joined by Brook Colley, an Associate Professor and Chair of the Native American Studies program at Southern Oregon University, and Amanda Craig, who worked most recently as Oregon Project Manager for the Trust for Public Lands‘ Oregon Rural Schoolyards Program.  Colley is an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. Craig is a citizen of The Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians. They will share their perspectives on what works and doesn’t work when attempting to build more respectful, mutually beneficial relationships with Native communities.
• sunny god with Friends of Trees will talk about designing complex organizational and program (eco)systems with care.

There will also be three panelists sharing experiences and ideas for how to recruit people currently under-represented in urban forestry and arboriculture into the profession and help them to flourish within it.

Three other panelists will discuss collaborating with diverse communities to extend the many benefits of shade-tree canopy more widely and in a more equitable manner.

Continuing education credits will be available for conference attendees.

Registration is $180 ($170 if the person registering lives or works in a Tree City USA community). Students can register for $80. Last day to register is Friday, May 9. Price includes a boxed lunch and a social hour beverage and snacks following the conference. To register, go to Growing Together: Collaboration and Diverse Voices in Urban Forestry

About Oregon Community Trees

The mission of this non-profit, Oregon-based organization is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness and advocacy. OCT serves as the advisory committee to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program.

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We have received questions about the number of bodies recovered in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, in Multnomah County, this spring. 

Since April 1, 2025, eight bodies have been recovered. Compared to April and May 2024, six bodies were recovered. The number is not unusual, though it is tragic.

The Medical Examiner continues to investigate and finalize the cause and manner of death. However, the majority of the eight bodies recovered this April and May are the result of drowning caused by suicide.

Additionally, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office has no reason to believe there is any suspicious activity nor do we believe there is any connection between the bodies.

Several main factors contribute to these discoveries this time of year.

• Biology and increasing water temperatures: Initially, a body will sink due to its density. As decomposition progresses and gas is produced, the body becomes less dense and floats to the surface. Warmer water accelerates the natural decomposition process, which can cause bodies to rise to the surface more quickly. 

• Water currents: The speed, flow, path and underwater obstructions (logs, rocks and sediment) of the river can influence decomposition rates and locations where bodies are found.

• Increased water activity: As the weather improves, more people spend time on the rivers in boats or at the rivers’ banks, such as to fish, paddle or boat. The increased presence of people leads to a higher likelihood of previously undiscovered remains being seen and reported.

When a body is recovered in the river, the Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit transfers the body to the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Medical Examiner verifies the body’s identity and determines how the person died.

Mental health and suicide impact many people in our community every day.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you’re not alone. Help is available by calling our texting 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline. 

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio’s May episode celebrates Frank Lovejoy (1912 – 62), a popular voice actor heard on several early pioneering radio serial programs. “Frank Lovejoy Tribute” premieres at 1 p.m. May 19 over KXRW-FM (99.9), Vancouver, and KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1), Portland. Subsequent broadcasts and streams will be provided by local, regional and international broadcast partners.

Lovejoy is best known for his leading role as a streetwise reporter in “Night Beat,” a newspaper adventure drama series that aired from 1950 to 1952. He appeared on several radio science fiction and mystery series, as well as daytime soaps, and also performed in movies, on television and on the stage. All of his known appearances are listed at reimaginedradio.fm.

Lovejoy’s voice was powerful and believable. “His voice promoted a no-nonsense presence,” said John Barber, creator and host of Re-Imagined Radio and a faculty member in the Creative Media and Digital Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “He was an everyman.”

Lovejoy is no longer well known. This episode seeks to elevate his status by focusing on programs where he enjoyed continuing and/or starring roles: “The Blue Beetle,” “This Is Your FBI,” “Murder and Mr. Malone” and “Night Beat.”

Re-Imagined Radio premieres episodes on the third Monday of the month on community radio stations KXRW-FM and KXRY-FM. Each episode is streamed globally and is then available as a podcast and on YouTube. Previous episodes are also released on YouTube each month. Information and listening opportunities are available at reimaginedradio.fm, where all episodes are archived.

The website also features “Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA,” additional content between regular monthly episodes, presenting sound-based storytelling from different places and in different genres.

Community Partners

Re-Imagined Radio draws on community voice actors, Foley artists, musicians, sound artists and engineers. Partners include KXRW-FM, KXRY-FM, the Electronic Literature Lab at WSU Vancouver, Marc Rose of Fuse Audio Design, Rylan Eisenhauer and Holly Slocum Design, with Evan Leyden.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Barber created the program in 2013 to explore sound-based storytelling. “We select, produce and perform classic and contemporary stories across a spectrum of genres, from dramas to comedies, from oral to aural histories, from documentaries to fictions, from soundscapes to sonic journeys, from radio to sound art, using a variety of media, including performances, radio broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, especially YouTube,” Barber said. 

About WSU Vancouver

As one of six campuses of the WSU system, WSU Vancouver offers big-school resources in a small-school environment. The university provides affordable, high-quality baccalaureate- and graduate-level education to benefit the people and communities it serves. As the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver helps drive economic growth through relationships with local businesses and industries, schools and nonprofit organizations. 

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

# # #

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet for a virtual special meeting starting at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 12. Members of the public are welcome to view the special meeting on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda includes:

• State forester recruitment plan

• Recruitment search firm

Please note: There will not be time allotted for live testimony during the special meeting. Written testimony may be submitted by emailing oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov prior to the meeting date. To account for the time board members need to review the written testimony, consider sending written testimony by close of business on Friday, May 9. Submissions should include the meeting date and agenda item number/topic header with the written submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

PORTLAND - On Saturday, May 10th, the Hollywood Lions Club will be running their semi-annual food drive at the
Hollywood Grocery Outlet from 10am to 3pm! They will be accepting non-perishable food items for all including pet foods. All donations will benefit CFPA’S Hollywood Senior Center. Bring used eyeglasses and hearing aids too!

The high cost of food, gas, utilities, medical care and rent continue to plague people in Portland. 1 in 5 residents of Oregon suffer food insecurity. Hunger affects children and families, and especially seniors who can be more isolated than other community members. The CFPA Hollywood Senior Center is a not for profit committed to enriching the lives of adults 55 and older by creating opportunities for social connection, health and wellness, independence and life-long learning. The Hollywood Senior Center is committed to providing services, education, information and recreation for seniors, families and caregivers in Multnomah County and particularly in their Hollywood neighborhood.

Often, seniors keep pets for emotional support and to stave off loneliness. These furry friends suffer from the same food insecurity as their senior friends, so sealed, new pet food will also be welcomed by the Hollywood Lions.

The Hollywood Lions Club, celebrating its 96th anniversary this year, is committed to service in its community and beyond, including a long relationship with the Hollywood Senior Center, with Lions on the HSC Board of Directors and more. The Hollywood Lions know that “where there’s a need, there’s a Lion”.

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Date: Wed, May 28th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta-may_28_trees/

Back by popular demand!
Have you ever noticed a tree not fall over?  A tree’s natural state is upright—it’s their default mode. Yet, myths pervade:

• “You should thin your tree”
• “You should top your tree”
• “Douglas-firs have shallow roots”
• “Lone trees are more likely to fall”
• “The roots will ruin my foundation”
• “That tree will fall and kill my whole family”

Despite the ubiquity of normal, upright trees around us, we often only notice those scattered few that stop being upright, most often in extreme weather.  And frankly, those few sully the good reputation of the thousands of others.

In the PNW, our trees grow to be some of the tallest and largest organisms on the planet, and that can be understandably intimidating as you watch them bend and sway during winter weather from your home.  Luckily, our trees did not achieve their prominence by accident, and this talk will explain what the trees are doing, how they react to their environment, and what you can do to make sure your trees are safe.

How does a tree build itself?  How does it choose which direction to grow?  Is it a giant, static monolith waiting to crush everything beneath it? or a dynamic, self-optimizing living system that wants to keep itself upright arguably more than you? Join us on a journey through the lifecycle of a tree: how it grows, lives, and dies.  In other words: how do trees become trees and what makes them so good at it?

An arborist, a dendrologist, and educator, Casey Clapp is the principal consultant with Portland Arboriculture and co-host/co-creator of CompletelyArbortrary, a weekly podcast about trees and other related topics. He’s also the author of the forthcoming book The Trees Around You: How to identify common neighborhood trees in the Pacific Northwest.  

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

Update 2

Additional information related to this investigation is the victim had a rental car parked in his driveway and investigators learned that several individuals were seen in the victim’s driveway prior to the shooting checking and/or prowling vehicles in the area. Investigators believe that the victim’s garage door opener was located by the suspects, they entered the victim’s garage and shortly thereafter were confronted by the victim who was then shot and killed. 

Prior to the shooting, police were called to a residence on NE 15^th Street for reports of several individuals prowling vehicles in that area, detectives believe those subjects are likely the same individuals involved in the shooting.

There is no information that the suspect(s) and the victim knew each other and the incident appears to be random.

Investigators are continuing to follow up on leads and information and are attempting to identify the suspect(s). No additional information is releasable at this time.

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Update 1

Detectives are confirming that the victim of the homicide was shot. The official report from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office is still pending, which will include the identity of the victim.  

Shortly before the homicide occurred, police were called to the report of an auto prowl in the 8500 block of NE 15^th Street. Detectives are investigating whether there is any connection between the two incidents.

The investigation is ongoing and nothing additional is available at this time.

Vancouver, Wash. – On May 3, 2025, at around 4:08 a.m., Vancouver Police were called to an assault investigation in the 10400 block of SE French Rd. where a male was found with significant injuries. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he later died. This incident is being investigated as a homicide.

Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit are continuing the investigation and nothing further is releasable at this time.

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Portland, Ore. - In the fall of 2023, OHSU and Legacy announced they intended to merge into Oregon’s largest healthcare system. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) and our partners in labor supported the deal because, ultimately, we believed it would lead to better working conditions for frontline caregivers and high standards for patient care. 

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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.

TUALATIN, OR — In recognition of April as National Volunteer Appreciation Month, the City of Tualatin proudly celebrated the individuals, families, and groups whose volunteer service strengthens the community and builds a brighter, more connected future.
 

“Tualatin is stronger because of the passion and commitment of our volunteers. Their generosity shapes the heart of our city and inspires us all.” — Mayor Frank Bubenik

In 2024, more than 750 volunteers contributed approximately 16,000 hours to a wide variety of City programs. From planting over 2,000 trees and tackling trash in the Put Down Roots in Tualatin program to supporting Library programs and students at Bridgeport Elementary through the Homework Helpers initiative, these dedicated individuals have made a lasting impact across the city.
 

Volunteers also removed invasive species and litter from local trails and restoration sites through Do It Yourself projects. Over 250 youth volunteers gave their time to the Library Summer Teen program, TEAM Tualatin, and a range of community events.
 

Volunteers from the Tualatin Historical Society preserve the city’s heritage, while the Juanita Pohl Center’s Guest Services volunteer team leads recreational activities and provides a welcoming environment for all. Members of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) support safety initiatives, and City Advisory Boards and Committees help shape Tualatin’s future. The Friends of the Library group continues to support programs and collections. Additionally, students from middle and high schools bring fresh energy and ideas to volunteer roles, and local corporate teams regularly join in to maintain parks and bring magic to community events.
 

The City of Tualatin extends heartfelt thanks to every volunteer and is pleased to honor three standout contributors for their exceptional service:
 

Outstanding Adult Volunteer

Blake Buchanan-Munro – Storytime Assistant and Homework Helper
Blake joined Tualatin Public Library’s volunteer program in 2022 as a program assistant and became an instant hit with the kids and librarians. When a Storytime Assistant was needed for Mondays, Blake offered to volunteer. She has been getting silly with stories and keeping Storytimes lively and safe for three years.

In the same year, Blake joined the Homework Helpers to provide critical reading, writing and math support to children at Bridgeport Elementary. The City of Tualatin deeply appreciates Blake’s 188 hours of energetic service and her positive impact on our youngest learners.

Outstanding Youth Volunteer

Ava Marsh
Ava Marsh began volunteering in the City of Tualatin in 2019. Ava has served as a Community Event volunteer, often recruiting her friends and family to help bring the magic to Blender Dash, Viva Tualatin and Pumpkin Regatta.  Ava also gives her time to TEAM Tualatin as a summer youth volunteer.  In this program, she is instrumental in maintaining city assets, parks, trails and greenspaces. Ava takes on leadership responsibilities for TEAM and sets the standard for work ethic, initiative and positive attitude.

In 2021, Ava joined the Tualatin Youth Advisory Council (YAC).  In YAC, Ava has been able to use her ideas and her voice to advocate for youth and represent the voice of youth to City Council. Elected by her peers, Ava has served as co-chair for two years, and she represented the City at the National League of Cities Conference, bringing back new ideas to implement in Tualatin.

Ava ‘s service in multiple City programs influences the livability of Tualatin, and will benefit our community for years to come. 

Outstanding Volunteer Group

Tualatin Rotary Club
The Tualatin Rotary Club has been active in our community for 45 years. The Rotary Club focuses on giving service in 5 areas: club service, community service, international service, vocational service and youth service. This group of 44 members has a long-standing history of achieving significant improvements with measurable outcomes in each of these areas of focus.

Rotarians address the community need for educating and mentoring the youth of Tualatin. They mentor and fund the TUHS Intercambio, they raise funds and have awarded over $300,000 in scholarships, they give free books to students through their Books on Wheels program and they give every third grade student in our community a dictionary. 

Tualatin Rotary also dedicates time and resources to the environment through their involvement in City litter clean ups and restoration work. Rotarians have been cleaning up Tualatin Road twice yearly for 20 years. For the last 6 years, they have joined in the City’s Hug a Street program for litter clean up and have been planting trees with the Put Down Roots in Tualatin program.  The Tualatin Rotary Club is truly outstanding in their service to youth, the community and the environment.

Join Us
The City of Tualatin is grateful for every volunteer who donates their time and talent to make our community stronger. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov/volunteers.

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2025 Green Future Renewable Development Fund applications period now open

Portland General Electric is now accepting applications for its 2025 Green Future Renewable Development Fund. The fund supports innovative and impactful small-scale renewable energy projects, including solar, micro-hydropower and battery storage to provide reliable, clean, and low-cost energy to local communities.

PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund is made possible by more than 225,000 Green Future participants. These customers opt to pay a little more on their energy bill in support of renewable energy resource projects for local municipalities and organizations.

“PGE’s Green Future program is a reflection of how much our customers care about the health of their communities and environments,” said PGE director of community impact, Kregg Arntson. “We appreciate the support of Green Future participants as we work together with local organizations to build a more resilient energy system.”

Results from PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund can be seen across its service area. Since its inception in 1999, the fund has awarded 119 projects, totaling more than $20 million while creating more than 17.1 MW of renewable power generation. PGE holds the No. 1 ranking from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory for the largest participation of customers in a renewable energy program among U.S. electric utilities.

Former recipient Northwest Housing Alternatives began construction on a new affordable senior housing development located next to Kaiser’s North Interstate medical campus and TriMet’s Overlook Park MAX Station in Portland. The M Carter Commons building will be equipped with renewable solar energy and battery storage devices with funding from PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund.

"We are thrilled to include a solar array and battery back-up storage into M Carter Commons, which will allow the community room to become a resilience hub for residents. During prolonged power outages, seniors living in this building will be able to power their phones and medical devices, store medicines, and stay comfortable," said Trell Anderson, Northwest Housing Alternatives Executive Director. “Funding from the PGE Green Future Renewable Development Fund made it possible for us to develop a resilient building that can protect this vulnerable community from the impacts of climate change and natural disasters."

Construction for the M Carter Commons building is expected to be completed in late Spring 2026.

The Green Future Renewable Development Fund application period ends June 30, 2025. PGE will host an applicant webinar on May 22, 2025. For an invitation, contact enewabledevfund@pgn.com" target="_blank" title="mailto:renewabledevfund@pgn.com">renewabledevfund@pgn.com.

To learn more about 2025 Green Future Renewable Development Fund and how to apply, click here.

2024 Green Future Renewable Development Fund awardees include:

• City of Tualatin - Micro-hydropower
• College Housing Northwest, Portland - Solar panels + battery storage
• Eloheh Eagle’s Wings, Yamhill - Solar panels + battery storage
• Just Compassion of East Washington County, Tigard - Solar panels + battery storage
• Parrott Creek Child and Family Services, Oregon City - Solar panels + battery storage

About Portland General Electric Company

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 950,000 customers serving an area of 1.9 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering social progress, delivering safe, affordable, reliable and increasingly clean electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE was ranked the No. 1 utility in the 2024 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index and is committed to reducing emissions from its retail power supply by 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2040. In 2024, PGE employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.5 million and volunteered nearly 23,000 hours to more than 480 nonprofit organizations. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

Gresham, Ore.— Police in Gresham are investigating a suspicious death.  Shortly before 8 a.m., officers were dispatched to a report of a suspicious circumstance in the 2600 block of NE 201^st Ave.  Officers found a person deceased at the scene.  The East County Major Crimes Team has been activated and is investigating the death.  No further information is available at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Tyson Conroy at

oy@GreshamOregon.gov">Tyson.Conroy@GreshamOregon.gov.  

Laurel Manor Senior Apartments Grand Opening Celebration and Ribbon Cutting

A New Housing Opportunity for Low-Income Seniors in Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, WA – May 5, 2025– The Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA) and Columbia Non-Profit Housing (CNPH) invite the community to the Grand Opening Celebration of Laurel Manor Senior Apartments, an 82-unit affordable housing development for low-income seniors aged 62 and older. The event will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at 3333 NE 66th Avenue, Vancouver, WA.

The event will feature a land acknowledgement, remarks from community leaders, ceremonial ribbon cutting, refreshments, and guided tours of Laurel Manor's thoughtfully designed amenities, including a spacious community room, computer lab, private meeting rooms, laundry on every floor, and beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces. Several units are fully accessible, including accommodation for individuals with visual and hearing impairments.

Dani Ledezma, Executive Director of Columbia Non-Profit Housing, shared her excitement about the milestone: “Laurel Manor represents more than just housing — it’s about dignity, community, and a future where people can age in place safely and with pride. We are honored to celebrate this new chapter with our residents, partners, and neighbors.”

Laurel Manor officially opened in January 2025, and the building is already fully leased. Designed to foster independence and social connection, Laurel Manor includes a pet relief area, community garden beds, a gazebo, patio, and a walking trail that surrounds the property.

Andy Silver, CEO of the Vancouver Housing Authority, emphasized the community impact: “We know that safe, stable housing is the foundation for health and well-being, especially for seniors. Laurel Manor reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that older adults can stay in our community and thrive.”

The property was developed by VHA and sponsored by CNPH with strong support from local and federal partners, including the City of Vancouver, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Washington State Housing Finance Commission, and the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Event Details:

• What: Grand Opening Celebration & Ribbon Cutting
• When: Friday, May 16, 2025
• Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
• Where: 3333 NE 66th Avenue, Vancouver, WA
• Parking: Limited on-site parking, with overflow available at Columbia River Mental Health Services
• RSVP: Required by Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to Susan Pagel at spagel@vhausa.com

Communication and Media Inquiries:
Please contact communications@vhausa.com

About Columbia Non-Profit Housing (CNPH):
Columbia Non-Profit Housing’s mission is to create stable communities by providing affordable, decent and safe housing where low-income people including seniors, persons with disabilities and families have opportunities to grow and thrive.

About The Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA):
The Vancouver Housing Authority’s mission is to provide opportunities to people experiencing housing barriers while honoring their personal dignity and maintaining public trust.

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard held a mobilization ceremony for Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) at the Salem Armory Auditorium, May 4, 2025, in Salem Ore. 

Approximately 220 Soldiers with the 41st IBCT are preparing to mobilize to the Horn of Africa to join Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. 

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek addressed attendees, thanking Soldiers and their families for their commitment and sacrifice. 

“I know you will rise to any challenge ahead of you and continue to set the bar high,” Kotek said. 

Task Force BATAAN is comprised of Soldiers from Oregon, New Mexico, Washington, and Louisiana. They will be serving in Djibouti, Kenya and Somalia in support of CJTF-HOA and JSOTF-SOM. The primary mission will be to conduct security and base defense operations. 

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Released photos:

250504-Z-UZ129-1015 Oregon National Guard Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team salute the flag during the national anthem at their mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium, May 4, 2025, in Salem, Ore. Approximately 220 Soldiers with the 41st are preparing to mobilize to the Horn of Africa to join Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson)

250504-Z-UZ129-1009 Oregon National Guard Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium, May 4, 2025, in Salem, Ore. Approximately 220 Soldiers with the 41st are preparing to mobilize units to the Horn of Africa to join Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson)

250504-Z-UZ129-1022 Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, addresses attendees at the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium, May 4, 2025, in Salem, Ore. Approximately 220 Soldiers with the 41st are preparing to mobilize to the Horn of Africa to join Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson)

250504-Z-UZ129-1028 Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek shakes hands with Oregon National Guard Soldiers from the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team following their mobilization ceremony at the Salem Armory Auditorium, May 4, 2025, in Salem, Ore. Approximately 220 Soldiers with the 41st are preparing to mobilize to the Horn of Africa to join Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson)