FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Aug. 28, 2025

Contact: Kelsey Ramos, 971-707-2458, amos@odf.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);" target="_blank">kelsey.ramos@odf.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet virtually on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, at 10 a.m. The virtual meeting is open to the public and the link is available on the meeting agenda on EFCC’s webpage.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Fire season report (Information Item)
• Implementation of HB 3940 (Information Item)
• Administrator Report (Information Item)

Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);" target="_blank">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The EFCC oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

The City of Salem is inviting the community to apply for four seats on the Livability Levy Oversight Committee. There is one at-large seat and one seat each representing Center 50+, Parks and Recreation and the Salem Public Library. The City Council will also have three representatives on the committee, to be appointed later.

Submit your application by Sept. 26

The committee will oversee the use of tax revenue from the Livability Levy passed in May of this year.  Their role is to ensure the revenue from the levy is used only for purposes outlined in the measure. The committee will make annual reports to the City Council. 

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EUGENE, Ore.—Dusty Jacaway, 29, of Springfield, Oregon, was sentenced to 250 months in federal prison today for producing child pornography.

According to court documents, in October 2024, Lane County Sheriff’s Office deputies located Jacaway in a vehicle with a 13-year-old child (MV1). Officers secured the cell phones of Jacaway and MV1. Subsequent analysis of the cell phones revealed two videos Jacaway had curated, displaying him sexually assaulting MV1 in the back seat of his car.

A forensic interview with MV1 revealed the extent of Jacaway’s abuse. Jacaway met MV1 online when the child was 12 years old and began sexually abusing MV1 soon after. Jacaway also provided MV1 with methamphetamine. He would regularly traffic MV1 to a local pornography shop where he accepted money and drugs from men in exchange for allowing them to sexually abuse MV1. Jacaway kept the money and threatened to kill MV1 if he were ever arrested.

Following the completion of his prison sentence, Jacaway will begin a life term of supervised release. He must also pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim.

The case was investigated by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Adam Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

Update 8/28/2025 10:15am

One person was fatally injured in this collision. The collision remains under investigation.

NE 20th Avenue is now open in both directions.

On 8/28/2025 at approximately 0418 hrs Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Deputies were dispatched to a collision between a truck and a sedan resulting in significant injuries to at least one person near the 13900 block of NE 20^th Ave, Vancouver, WA.  CCSO Traffic Homicide Detectives were called out to investigate the scene.  NE 20^th Ave between NE 139^th Street and NE 144^th Street will be closed for an extended period.  Please avoid the area. 

additional information will not be released at this time

Oregon City, Ore. -  On Wednesday, August 27th, 2025, the Oregon City Police Department partnered with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and Milwaukie Police Department to conduct a retail crime mission. For this mission, OCPD focused on retail stores in Oregon City.

During the 10-hour operation, coordinated by OCPD, law enforcement contacted individuals suspected of theft and other crimes as they exited stores. The mission resulted in 13 arrests on various charges and the recovery of 134 stolen items, valued at $2,103.

During the mission, several individuals taken into custody were found to have prior theft-related arrests in Clackamas County.

The mission was a coordinated effort involving patrol officers and detectives from the Oregon City Police Department, in collaboration with officers and detectives with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and the Milwaukie Police Department. Clackamas County Communications, CCOM, supported the mission by providing dispatch services. The participating retailers provided asset protection staff to assist law enforcement in the mission.

Wednesday’s mission was funded in part by the Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Grant Program, created by Oregon Senate Bill 900 (2023) and administered by the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The Oregon City Police Department was awarded funds for FY2025-26, which helps fund staffing and equipment for law enforcement missions and other efforts to combat organized retail theft and hold those offenders accountable.

Labor Day Weekend traditions are rooted in the outdoors, and to keep things safe, the Oregon State Marine Board suggests taking the time to plan your on-water getaway with the following tips:

Wear your life jacket. Each boat (including canoes and kayaks, rafts, inflatable boats, and stand up paddleboards) must have a properly fitted life jacket for each person on board and at least one sound-producing device. Life jackets need to be in good shape and readily accessible – not under a hatch or in their packaging. All youth younger than 13 must wear a life jacket when in a boat that’s underway. Since storage space is limited on paddlecraft, it makes the best sense to just wear a life jacket. Conditions can change very quickly and there’s no time to put on a life jacket in an emergency. So far this season, most of the victims of recreational boating fatalities were paddlers who were not wearing life jackets.

Know your waterway. “Take the time to get familiar with the waterway and know the inherent dangers such as current, tides, and wind,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “Look out for wood, other debris, and shallow gravel bars with low water levels.” Find out more about low water impacts on boat ramps by subscribing to the Marine Board’s Opportunities and Access Report.

Know what rules apply. There are all types of watercraft on the market; some are considered boats and others are pool toys. Boats are designed differently, and by state law, have specific equipment requirements. “If you plan to float in a river, keep in mind that pool toys are designed for use in a swimming pool, have no directional control, and can puncture easily. Float in a watercraft designed for a river that won’t easily puncture and comes equipped with a paddle so you can maneuver away from obstructions.” Paulsen adds.

Boat Sober. Boating is a great social activity, and the Marine Board encourages boaters and individuals floating on the waterways to leave the alcohol on shore. It’s safer for everyone. If arrested for Boating Under the Influence of Intoxicants (BUII), violators can be fined up to $6,250; can lose boating privileges for up to three years and even serve jail time. Intoxicants include marijuana, illicit drugs, and even some prescriptions.

Sit on the seat inside the boat. Many boaters are tempted to ride on the swim platform, stern, sides, and the bow of open motorboats. The stern can be a dangerous place for exposure to carbon monoxide and a prop-strike safety hazard. It is illegal to ride on the bow, decks, gunwales, or transoms of a motorboat when the boat is underway. Sitting on designated seats is the safest option – especially when the boat is towing someone. Just because new boats have seats on the transom or swim step doesn’t make them legal for use when the boat is underway.

Slow down, keep scanning, and be courteous. Know the boating regulations for your area of operation. Boaters, including personal watercraft, are responsible for damage caused by their wake. Remember to slow down within 200 feet of a dock, launch ramp, marina, moorage, floating home or boathouse, pier or swim float, even if they don’t have a “Slow No-Wake” buoy or sign. This is a statewide proximity rule that applies to all waterways. Paddlers should stay closer to shore, crossing busy channels at right angles only when safe, and allow motorboats to pass in deeper water. Be courteous, share the water, and recreate responsibly.

For more information about equipment requirements, boating regulations, and ideas on where to go boating, visit the Marine Board’s website.

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
 

September is National Preparedness Month and a great reminder to prepare for the unexpected. Disasters and emergencies can strike anytime; sometimes leaving our communities without adequate aid for hours, days, or even weeks. Take time this month to review your emergency plans and supplies.

Due to potential local wildfires, storms, floods, or landslides it is recommended that all Oregonians be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks. For coastal residents, like Lincoln County, it is recommended to be “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready” in preparation for a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. This means your household has enough food, water, medical supplies, sanitation supplies, and other life-sustaining resources to meet your needs for at least four weeks. In a major disaster such as a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, supply chain, responders, and transportation would be disrupted. Our communities need to be prepared to take care of each other until assistance is available.
 

Be Informed

• Know about possible hazards that can occur where you live.
• Be familiar with local evacuation routes.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts through Lincoln Alerts.

Make an Emergency Plan

• Talk with family and friends about what to do, including if you’re not together during an emergency.
• Practice your plan at different times and on different days. What will you do if you are at home, work, school, or at another location?
• Plan to check on your neighbors or vulnerable community members and offer assistance if possible.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Create an emergency kit or update your existing one.
• Some supplies include:
  • at least 4 weeks supply of food and water for each person and any pets. Remember to include water for drinking, sanitation, and preparing meals if needed.
  • battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • flashlight
  • first aid kit
  • extra batteries
  • whistle (to signal for help)
  • dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) and face coverings
  • plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
  • moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • manual can opener (for food)
  • local maps
  • cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

 More preparedness information and resources:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Plan and Prepare Resources
• Be Ready – Make a Plan
• Be Ready – Build a Kit
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Red Cross – How to Prepare for Emergencies
• Oregon Emergency Management – 2 Weeks Ready

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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LEBANON, Ore. - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued this statement following Samaritan Health Services’ announcement that it will continue providing labor and delivery and emergency surgical services at all five of its hospitals. The decision to preserve these critical healthcare services comes after a months-long campaign by ONA nurses, doctors, patients, community members and elected leaders to save family birth centers and surgical services at risk of closing at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital and Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital. 

“From the beginning, nurses and families made it clear these birthplaces are irreplaceable and must be saved. Generations of families got their start here, and generations fought together to make sure future families have access to safe, local healthcare. 

This is a victory for our entire community—especially our patients. We are deeply grateful to everyone who wrote letters, signed petitions, attended rallies and marched with us. Your voices made the difference. 

Healthcare providers, patients, and community leaders stood united and ultimately Samaritan listened. 

Keeping our birth centers and emergency surgery services open is lifesaving for moms, babies and local families. We celebrate today’s announcement and look forward to continuing to care and advocate for our patients and communities.” 

ONA members in the Samaritan Health Services system led the community effort to save the family birth centers and emergency surgery services. Nurses, doctors, patients, firefighters, and local and national elected officials including U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) were among those who publicly called on Samaritan Health Services to maintain rural and coastal Oregonians’ full access to labor and delivery services.  

 
Along with leading local rallies and protests, supporters sent more than 21,000 emails to Samaritan executives and board members asking them to save local birth centers and the emergency surgery team.

Closing birth centers has become a dangerous trend in the U.S. More than 500 hospitals in the U.S. have closed their labor and delivery departments since 2010; contributing to rising maternal mortality rates. Since 2019, Oregon health systems closed birth centers at hospitals in Redmond, Baker City, Gresham and most recently at Providence Seaside Hospital. 

ONA nurses led a successful community effort to save the family birth center at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center in Gresham which was closed and swiftly reopened after public outcry and state intervention in 2023. 

In addition to delivering babies, healthcare providers at Samaritan's hospital birth centers offer specialized pre-and post-birth care including childbirth classes, lactation support, regular testing for moms and babies with significant health risks and care up to a month after delivery. 

Community members have counted on the birth services provided at Lebanon for more than 80 years and can now count on those services continuing into the future. 

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August 27, 2025

Media Contacts:

• Jonathan Modie, OHA, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov
• Tanya Phillips, Jackson County Health & Human Services, phillitf@jacksoncountyor.gov

Jackson County Vector Control District finds Aedes aegypti mosquitoes second year in a row

County’s August 2024 discovery of species was Oregon’s first

PORTLAND, Ore.—Aedes aegypti (Ae. Aegypti) mosquitoes have been discovered again in Jackson County, a year after Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the county announced the species had been found for the first time in the state.

OHA, Jackson County Vector Control and Jackson County Public Health confirmed the identification of Ae. aegypti as part of routine mosquito surveillance.

Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., state public health veterinarian in OHA’s Public Health Division, said the repeat appearance of Ae. aegypti in Oregon is a concern because the species has been more common in much warmer climates of the United States, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Pacific Islands.

“These mosquitoes have been known carry and transmit diseases that are more typical to warmer climates, such as Zika virus, chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever,” DeBess said. These viruses spread to humans through the bite of an infected Ae. aegypti mosquito, he said.

The mosquitoes become infected when they bite and feed on someone who is infected with the virus. They primarily feed in the daytime and prefer to feed on humans.

However, DeBess emphasized that the risk of these infections to local residents is low. “Acquiring these diseases depends on the presence or arrival of someone who is currently infected with one of the diseases after infection outside the United States,” DeBess said. “As was the case when Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were first found in Oregon in 2024, there have been no reports of anyone having acquired viruses associated with Ae. aegypti from within the state.”

Routine mosquito surveillance monitors different mosquito populations in the county and tests for diseases such as West Nile virus and Western equine encephalitis that are common to the Culex mosquito genus. It also gives Jackson County Vector Control the ability to determine human risk and implement strategies to control these insects and prevent disease spread.

Adult Ae. aegypti mosquitoes are relatively small and have a black-and-white pattern due to the presence of white/silver scale patches against a black background on the legs and other parts of the body. Ae. aegypti mosquitoes most likely originated in Africa. Since then, the species has been transported globally throughout tropical and subtropical regions, and parts of the temperate world, through global trade and shipping activities.

Ae. aegypti cannot fly far—only about 500 feet. These mosquitoes prefer warm and wet weather, and to live in or near homes or in neighboring woods. Changes in climate are allowing Ae. aegypti mosquitoes to expand their range to the western United States. 

Prevention

Invasive Ae. aegypti mosquitoes need only a quarter inch of water to complete their life cycle. The key to preventing these mosquitoes from becoming an established vector in Jackson County will be to eliminate standing water, even small amounts, and moisture from yards and gardens. Common mosquito breeding sources include flowerpot saucers, tires, kiddie pools, rooted plants in water, containers/buckets, and pet water bowls.

“Many prevention methods that work for other types of mosquitoes apply to Aedes aegypti,” said Geoff Taylor, manager of Jackson County Vector Control.

Those methods include:

• Dumping or draining any standing water around the home.
• Removing containers or objects that can hold water from your yard, such as water saucers from under plants, old tires, tarps, buckets, containers, toys, and other equipment.
• Repairing leaky outdoor faucets.
• Keeping rain gutters cleared.
• Covering, screening, or removing rain barrels, trashcans, bins, buckets, or tubs.
• Wearing mosquito repellent outside. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, some lemon eucalyptus, and para-menthane-diol products are most effective at preventing mosquito bites.
• Sleeping under a mosquito net when outside or in a room without screens.

DeBess explained that identification of Ae. aegypti demonstrates why mosquito trapping by local vector control agencies is so important. It allows for tracking and monitoring of different types of mosquitoes, and it gives state and local agencies advanced warning on the potential spread of a species so they can take steps to reduce health risks in the population.

For more information:

• Aedes aegypti, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/about/life-cycle-of-aedes-mosquitoes.html
• Potential range of Aedes mosquitoes, CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/php/toolkit/potential-range-of-aedes.html
• Aedes aegypti in California: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/pages/Aedes-aegypti-and-Aedes-albopictus-mosquitoes.aspx
• Jackson County Vector Control District: https://jcvcd.org/
• JCVCD’s Aedes aegypti page: https://jcvcd.org/mosquito/aedes-aegypti/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: August 27, 2025

Update | 5:00 p.m.

Victims identified

Notifications to the families of the victims in today’s two homicide cases are now complete, allowing for the release of their names.

The victim in the first incident is identified as Nicholas Micheal MacFawn, age 30, of Salem.

The victim in the second incident is identified as Jacob Collazo, age 60. Collazo was known to live in a campsite at Wallace Marine Park.

Both investigations are ongoing, and no other information is available at this time.

# # #

Originally published 08/27/2025 | 6:45 a.m.

Police investigating two separate overnight fatal shootings

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers and detectives are investigating two separate homicide cases related to shooting incidents that occurred overnight.

1600 block 40^th PL SE

At about 12:30 a.m. this morning, officers were dispatched to the scene of a collision in the area of 40^th PL and Carson DR SE. A caller reported a crash and finding a person in the roadway. Arriving officers located an adult male with multiple gunshot wounds. The 30-year-old man was transported to Salem Health where he was later pronounced deceased.

Carson DR is closed between 40^th PL and Coolidge DR SE and will remain closed for the next several hours for this active investigation.

Wallace Marine Park

Approximately one hour later, at 1:30 a.m., several callers reported gunfire at a homeless campsite in Wallace Marine Park. Officers responded to a wooded area in the northern portion of the park and located a man with multiple gunshot wounds. Due to the rugged terrain, officers carried the man out to awaiting paramedics who rendered aid. The victim, age 60, was transported to Salem Health where he later died from his injuries.

In both incidents, the victim’s name is being withheld pending notification to their family.

The Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit is leading these active investigations. Due to limited resources, the Oregon State Police Major Crimes Section is assisting with the homicide investigation at Wallace Marine Park.

In each case, detectives believe the incidents are isolated and unrelated. No further details are being released at present.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – Nearly 100 people joined City leaders and project partners for a ceremonial groundbreaking of a new affordable housing community. The project, located at 615 W. 6th Street and developed by Colas Development Group (CDG) and Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), will transform the 0.92-acre site into a six-story 95-unit building. The City invested $1.27 million from its Affordable Housing Fund, sold the land for $1 to ensure affordability, leveraged the state’s construction sales tax exemption, and reduced impact fees to make this community possible.

“The partners assembled on this project represent a shared vision for equity, sustainability, and cultural inclusion,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “These values will continue to shape the future of our Waterfront Gateway and ensure it remains a place where all Vancouver residents can thrive.”

“For many years, our community has been asking us to bring NAYA’s wraparound services to SW Washington,” said Oscar Arana (Chichimeca),CEO of the NAYA Family Center. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Cowlitz Tribe, CDG, the City of Vancouver, and many funders to make this community request a reality. It’s been a long-time vision to replicate NAYA’s holistic services model here in Clark County, and this incredible housing project is a historic step towards achieving this goal.”

"This project is our first vertically integrated development, and our first project to break ground in Washington State. More than 41% of our trade partners on this project are certified firms, representing real people, real families, and real opportunities in the communities we serve," said Andrew Colas, President & CEO, Colas Development Group. "We’re incredibly thankful for the partners who believed in that vision with us: NAYA, The Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Colas Construction, Scott Edwards Architecture, Vancouver Housing Authority, Lincoln, and the City of Vancouver, US Bancorp Impact Finance, Citi Community Capital, Washington State Housing Finance Commission, and Washington State Department of Commerce. 

The event marks the first construction milestone in the City’s work to develop Waterfront Gateway and continues the City’s commitment to creating affordable housing in Vancouver through the Affordable Housing Fund.

This is the first of several developments planned for the 6.4-acre Waterfront Gateway District. The redevelopment will connect Vancouver’s Columbia River waterfront with its historic downtown. Waterfront Gateway advances the City’s Strategic Plan by providing much-needed housing to the area, including affordable housing; creating retail opportunities for local small businesses; and designing new public spaces for city events and gatherings.
 

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August 27, 2025

Case # 16CR35095

Portland, OR- On Monday, August 25, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge David Rees sentenced Edgar Ocampo-Reza (age 53) to 38 years in prison for sexually abusing and sodomizing a child. He faced a minimum of 25-years. Prosecutors pointed to a number of aggravating factors that warranted the total incarceration of 38 years. The judge agreed, noting that the extraordinarily long sentence was appropriate given the extraordinary amount of harm Ocampo-Reza had caused and the repeated nature of his crimes. 

Ocampo-Reza was found guilty on all counts (12 counts of Sodomy in the First Degree and 24 counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree) after a weeklong trial earlier this month.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Charles Mickley prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing he said “Justice in this case was long overdue. At every turn, the defendant tried to avoid being held accountable for his crimes. This verdict is a testament to the courage, strength, and perseverance of the victim and her friends–at eleven years of age–to speak up. At sentencing, the victim spoke eloquently about the lasting impact of the defendant’s crimes. This is why, as a community who cares about the safety and well-being of children, we should never give up in our efforts to hold accountable people who have committed crimes like these.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detective Kathryne Manus of the Portland Police Bureau for her excellent work on this case. She was instrumental in getting Ocampo-Reza extradited from Mexico to stand trial for these horrific crimes. After Ocampo-Reza was returned to Oregon, Detective Manus served a search warrant to collect the defendant’s DNA.

The District Attorney’s Office would also like to recognize the compassion shown to the victims in this case by MCDA Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera.

The Facts:

On Saturday, May 14, 2016, the then 11-year old victim disclosed to some of her friends that Ocampo-Reza had been raping her. The next Monday at school, two of her closest friends encouraged her to tell a teacher about the abuse. Their persistence and support helped to bring these crimes to light. The victim revealed to a school counselor (and at CARES Northwest later that same day) that Ocampo-Reza had been sexually abusing her for the past few years. The abuse happened on Saturdays when the child’s mother was at work. These powerful disclosures of abuse were later corroborated by DNA evidence obtained from the SAFE kit, which showed the presence of male DNA. Meanwhile, Ocampo-Reza fled to Mexico soon after being alerted that the victim had disclosed being abused. Prosecutors in Multnomah County worked with local and international investigators to track down Ocampo-Reza and bring him back to Oregon to face justice. The forensic scientists at the Oregon State Police Crime Lab were later able to confirm that the male DNA profile from the SAFE kit matched Ocampo-Reza’s DNA profile. 

                                                                 ###MCDA###

As summer winds down and the new school year kicks off, the dedicated food service team at Washougal School District is ready to serve nutritious, delicious meals every day. These school lunch heroes do more than just fill plates – they create a welcoming space where students can refuel, connect with friends, and discover new foods they love. With a focus on fun, flavor, and interactive nutrition education, they’re helping students leave the cafeteria not just full, but happier and healthier than when they walked in.

In a time of increasing food costs and inflation, school meals are an affordable and safe way for parents to remove lunch from their daily to-do list. Every meal Chartwells K12 serves meets or exceeds USDA guidelines for the National School Lunch Program. That means less time worrying about what’s on the tray and knowing kids are eating wholesome, well-balanced meals they enjoy.

“Good nutrition is essential for helping students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn,” said Hossein Akhtarkhavari, Area Director, Chartwells K12 at Washougal School District. “This year, we’re excited to bring back student favorites and introduce some tasty new recipes that will keep kids fueled and looking forward to mealtime.” 

Food Kids Love to Eat

Chartwells’ passionate team of chefs and nutrition experts has been cooking up menus that not only meet rigorous nutritional standards but also reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of today’s students. With a focus on flavor, variety, and wellness, the cafeteria team takes pride in serving meals that fuel students' bodies and minds all day long. During the first few weeks of school, students can look forward to enjoying several menu options that includes: Fresh salads, sandwiches, and scratch-made items alongside popular student choices. 

Meal Cost & Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications

For the 2025-26 school year, breakfast will cost $2.50 for middle school students and $2.75 for high school students. Lunch will cost $3.95 for middle school students and $4.20 for high school students. All elementary students grades TK-5 are eligible to receive a complete breakfast and lunch meal daily at no cost, as these schools qualify for the school eligibility program with the state. 

All families, regardless of income, are encouraged to complete and submit a short, confidential school meal application prior to the start of the school year to ensure there are no gaps in meal benefits for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Parents or guardians can submit a confidential application online at https://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/food-services/

Menus and Nutrition Facts at Your Fingertips 

Chartwells K12 continues to bring technology to the forefront of the dining experience to help students and their parents prioritize healthy food choices and understand ingredients so they can help protect children from allergic reactions. Through Nutrislice, students, parents, and faculty have access to school menus, including nutrition information, allergens, and photos. Nutrislice can be downloaded for free from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) and is available on desktop and mobile devices. Menus are also available at https://washougal.nutrislice.com/menu

Celebrating School Lunch Heroes

Cafeteria staff are a constant source of support for students throughout their school years. These dedicated team members work hard every day to make mealtimes nutritious and enjoyable.  Join the dining services staff for a family-friendly schedule (no nights or weekends), great perks, and more. Learn more or apply at https://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/wsd-jobs/

Through sharing their passion for great-tasting food, instilling a sense of food discovery, and most importantly, providing nourishing meals, Chartwells is excited to be serving up happy and healthy meals to Washougal School district in the year ahead.

About Chartwells K12 

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 18,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education, and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

The Washougal School Board has appointed Paul Hooper to the school board, representing district 5, to fill the seat vacated by Chuck Carpenter, who retired from his board position at the end of June.  Hooper is a parent of two WSD students and is a graduate of Washougal High School.  He brings extensive leadership experience in the private sector to the board.  Hooper has served as a volunteer with East County Little League and other local organizations.  He brings a focus on innovation, evaluating progress, and building a growth mindset to the role of school director.  

The board gathered applications from interested candidates in late June and July, and interviewed the applicants at the August 12 Special Meeting and work session.  

Board President Sadie McKenzie said, “We were excited and thankful to have three candidates interested in serving on the school board. We believe Paul’s experience and history with Washougal Schools will help as we work to implement the district’s strategic plan and evaluate the success of our efforts.”

“I am honored and excited to give back to the community that has given me so much, both as a student and now as a parent,” Hooper said. “I look forward to collaborating with the board and district staff to build on our strengths and ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed.”

Superintendent Aaron Hansen said, “Paul Hooper has deep roots as a WHS graduate and current parent, along with his extensive business experience will strengthen our school board. He has a demonstrated track record as an involved community volunteer who is ready to help improve the experience of our students.” 

The appointment is through November 2025, when Washougal voters will elect a permanent replacement.

QUARTERLY COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY – WALDPORT
 

8/27/25 – Lincoln County, OR
 

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 9:30am – 11am for a cup of coffee and a conversation at Café Chill (located at 540 NE Commercial St, Waldport, OR 97394).

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.
 

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MARION COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 27, 2025) - On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 4:26 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 267, in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an Infiniti G35, operated by K'Rondre' Demarcus Minor (20) of Gresham, was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes when it struck a southbound Honda Civic, operated by Desmond Antwan Diamond (22) of Saint Helens, head-on.

The operator of the Infiniti (Minor) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital with critical injuries.

The operator of the Honda (Diamond) was transported to an area hospital with critical injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by Marion County Sheriff's Office, Woodburn Fire and EMS, 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.

August 27, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Lake Simtustus

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Lake Simtustus due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom. Results of testing will either confirm the advisory or allow us to lift. The lake is in Jefferson County.

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

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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Salem, OR -- Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist and Michael Kennedy, senior economist of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Economic Analysis (OEA), presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the legislative committee on finance and revenue. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to public review and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is different about this forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the state of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. The August economic outlook assessed past projections, legislatively approved budget and the impact of federal legislation H.R.1 in Oregon. The state legislature concluded the 2025 session with $472.8 million in available funds, intended to buffer against economic risks. However, the passage of H.R.1 is now estimated to reduce state revenues by $888.2 million over the course of the 2025-27 biennium.  

Revenue Forecast

The August revenue forecast projects the 2025-27 General Fund ending balance will be down $621.1 million due to economic changes, the passage of H.R.1 and adjustments to kicker credit. As a result, the projected end balance for the biennium has declined by $845.5 million, a shift from previously projected $472.8 million surplus to a negative balance of $372.7 million.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis within the Department of Administrative Services and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis and recent forecasts visit https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

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Today, Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability published the third and final report highlighting progress made on the Climate Emergency Workplan (CEW). This three-year plan highlights the collaborative work between multiple City bureaus to reduce carbon emissions and make City operations more resilient and climate friendly. Together, they identified 47 priority actions to take that would usher us closer to our 2030 and 2050 climate goals.

The City has made some real gains in this workplan, alongside efforts that remain in progress. However, climate work does not follow a simple timeline. It demands steady, ongoing commitment. This final report captures the complexity of that work and recognizes the urgency that still exists.

The need to address the climate crisis is clear and Portland remains far from its 2030 and 2050 goals for carbon-emission reductions. Portlanders have experienced record-shattering heat, choking smoke from increasing wildfires, more frequent floods, and other extreme climate events over the past several years. Meanwhile, scientists recently published a warning that the next five summers will be the hottest on record. In fact, Earth is likely to pass 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming over pre-industrial levels, a key climate threshold, by 2027.

“This moment invites Portland to lead with transparency and courage,” notes Vivian Satterfield, Portland’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “Portland has the tools, knowledge, and resolve to lead – but it’s going to require more discipline and hope to fully realize our climate goals. Because our community’s prosperity, economic opportunity, and stability for future generations depend on it.”

While this report documents the final year of the Climate Emergency Workplan, this moment also marks a new beginning. The transition in our form of government and the launch of the Sustainability and Climate Commission offer new opportunities to create the future that Portlanders deserve.

View the report and learn more about the City’s progress in the Climate Emergency Workplan 2024 Progress Report on our website.

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) oversees a world-renowned waste and recycling system and leads the country in its commitment to digital equity, open data, and protecting communities in the application of technologies. Staff collaborate with partners on neighborhood, economic, historic, and environmental planning and provide research, policy, and technical services to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as policies and actions to address climate change. The bureau also oversees the innovative  Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF).

August 27, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Ochoco Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Ochoco Lake due to elevated microcystin levels. The lake is in Crook County.

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

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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August 26, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Odell Lake

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

OHA issued the advisory Aug. 14

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

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at 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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PORTLAND, Ore.— Antonio Irving Benjamin, age 53 and a resident of Salem, Oregon, was sentenced to 144 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy to launder the proceeds.  He also agreed to forfeit assets worth more than $2 million dollars.
 

According to court documents, Benjamin and a previously convicted co-conspirator named Jered Hayward operated a large-scale illegal THC and psilocybin production and distribution facility headquartered in Salem, Oregon.  Benjamin supervised the operations and managed a number of employees who obtained cereal and candy products and infused or sprayed potent THC oils on them.  They then inserted the edibles into packages which mimicked legitimate consumer food products and sold them throughout the United States and internationally. While there was no evidence Benjamin deliberately targeted minors, the manner in which his organization packaged the edibles posed a risk to children, who are often unable to comprehend the fine print warnings that the packages contained THC products.
 

Benjamin’s organization utilized encrypted communications such as Telegram to market, sell and process orders, and straw businesses to mask money laundering transactions.  Benjamin had no permits or licenses to produce or sell these products; the entire operation was illegal.
 

Benjamin has an extensive criminal record, including two prior federal convictions for cocaine and fentanyl trafficking.  Because of these convictions, he is a career criminal under federal law.
 

Benjamin agreed to forfeit substantial assets which he admitted were related to the drug and money laundering enterprise.  As part of his guilty plea Benjamin and Hayward agreed to forfeit:

• The Salem production facility;
• More than $1 million in cash;
• $640,000 worth of cryptocurrency and bank account funds;
• More than $400,000 worth of gold and silver;
• Jewelry and a Rolex watch; and
• Twelve vehicles, two UTV’s, boats and
• A property located at 879 Railway Avenue NE, Silverton, Oregon.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Portland Police Bureau, United States Postal Inspection, Oregon State Police, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Salem Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Kemp Strickland and Christopher Cardani, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

PORTLAND AREA MAN SENTENCED TO 70 MONTHS PRISON FOR SHOOTING ANOTHER WITH A DART

Case number: 24CR55909 and 24CR38394

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Judge Benjamin Souede sentenced 40-year old Joseph Naes to 70 months prison on August 25, 2025, for shooting another man with a barbed dart on a Max platform and for a separate case in which Naes assaulted and harassed his wife in a domestic violence incident.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Julian Samuels prosecuted the case for the state.

After the conviction and sentencing he said “this was an attack of unnecessary violence and hopefully this sentence brings a sense of closure and accountability to the victim and the community.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Transit Police, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, the Gresham Police Department and for their outstanding work on this case.

We would also like to highlight and recognize the work of MCDA Victim Advocate Alex Bidwell for his kindness and compassion toward the victims in this case.

The Facts:

On July 17, 2024 Joseph Naes used a sling shot to fire a six inch barbed dart into the back of a man named Logan Sharp. The two did not know each other but Sharp had broken up a domestic violence incident between Naes and his partner a week earlier.

In the dart shooting incident, both men happened to be on the Max platform at 16155 Burnside Street at the same time. The dart hit the victim in the back below his right shoulder. He was rushed to the hospital with a collapsed lung. He survived the injury.  Naes ran off after the incident but was later identified by investigators using police records and video from the Max platform.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—Tracy Molina, 52, of Portland, Oregon, has been charged by information with failing to obey a lawful order.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on August 21, 2025, Molina entered the grounds of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in Portland. Molina failed to comply with the lawful direction of federal officers and was arrested.

Molina made her first appearance in federal court on August 22 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

Failure to obey a lawful order is a Class C misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 30 days in prison.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – City leaders and project partners will gather from 11 a.m. to noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 27, for the ceremonial groundbreaking of a new affordable housing community. The event marks the first construction milestone in the City’s efforts to develop Waterfront Gateway and continues the City’s commitment to creating affordable housing in Vancouver through the Affordable Housing Fund.
 

The project, located at 615 W. 6th Street and developed by Colas Development Group (CDG) and Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), will transform the 0.92-acre site into a six-story 95-unit building. The City invested $1.27 million from its Affordable Housing Fund, sold the land for $1 to ensure affordability, leveraged the state’s construction sales tax exemption, and reduced impact fees to make this community possible.

This is the first of several developments planned for the 6.4-acre Waterfront Gateway District. The redevelopment will connect Vancouver’s Columbia River waterfront with its historic downtown. Waterfront Gateway advances the City’s Strategic Plan by providing much-needed housing to the area, including affordable housing; creating retail opportunities for local small businesses; and designing new public spaces for city events and gatherings.
 

Speakers include:

• Anne McEnerny-Ogle, Mayor
• Kim Harless, City Councilor
• Bill Iyall, Chairman Cowlitz Indian Tribe
• Tanna Engdahl, Cowlitz Indian Tribe
• Oscar Arana, NAYA
• Andrew Colas, CDG

For the duration of the event, media can park free of charge in the parking lot adjacent to the event site at 615 W. 6^th Street (enter from Esther Street).

What: New affordable housing project in Waterfront Gateway
 

Where: 615 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, WA 98661
 

When: 11:00 a.m. – Noon on Wednesday, August 27 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
Contact: Sara Barger
sara.barger@4drecovery.org
503-960-0968
 

Discovery Academy and 4D Recovery Celebrate Opening of Oregon’s First Co-Located Recovery High School and Youth Recovery Community Center
 

Salem, OR — On Thursday, August 28, 2025, Discovery Academy and 4D Recovery will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony from 12:00–2:00 PM at their new joint location (3710 Portland Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301), celebrating the opening of Oregon’s first fully co-located recovery high school and behavioral health program.
 

This groundbreaking partnership offers adolescents with addiction and mental health challenges a supportive environment where they can thrive both academically and personally. Discovery Academy, operated by Willamette Education Service District, is open to Oregon students ages 14–21 and is currently serving youth from the Salem area. With a full academic program running September through June and a summer continuum of services, students receive structure, consistency, and a strong sense of belonging. The school day runs 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with Wednesdays dedicated to recovery-focused programming.
 

Principal Max Preminger explained that this integration is already transforming lives: “As Principal of Discovery Academy, I have seen powerful transformations in our students. The support level we provide has allowed students to show their true abilities, achieve academically, and recover. As we move into our first full school year, students now have a new resource under our roof. Having 4D Recovery in the same space means our students have educational, peer recovery, and clinical services right at their fingertips.”
 

That integration comes through 4D Recovery’s on-site presence. During the school day and throughout school breaks, 4D provides substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health treatment, recovery peer mentorship, and an adjacent recovery community center, giving students a safe place to connect, have fun, and build sober peer networks after school. “At 4D Recovery, we are passionate about supporting youth and families,” said Sara Barger, Director of Public Affairs & Relations at 4D Recovery. “We are working to expand adolescent services across Oregon and Washington. This is one more step toward that goal.”
 

“At the state level, the Oregon Department of Education sees this model as one to replicate. Kate Pattison, Director of School Choice, Option, and Recovery Education, framed the opening as a milestone: “The opening of Discovery Academy and 4D Recovery’s newest site marks a groundbreaking milestone for Oregon and the nation. As the first co-located recovery high school and youth recovery community center, this bold partnership with Willamette ESD and 4D Recovery ensures that students don’t have to choose between sobriety and school—they can have both. Recovery education is vital to whole-child success, and the Oregon Department of Education is committed to collaborating with partners statewide to expand opportunities that help young people heal, belong, and thrive.”
 

This partnership models an integrated continuum of care that fills a critical gap between treatment and education—reducing recurrence of use, increasing access to resources, and ensuring youth are surrounded by the care and community they need to succeed. In Oregon, where far too many young people lack recovery-centered supports that allow them to stay in school, the need for services like this has never been greater. By investing in programs that give adolescents both academic opportunity and recovery support, communities are not only addressing immediate challenges but also investing in the long-term health and future of Oregon’s children.
 

That future is supported by state policy. Senator Deb Patterson noted that the collaboration reflects legislative momentum: “Efforts like HB 2767 (2023) play a critical role in expanding educational opportunities that meet the unique needs of youth in recovery. By supporting integrated models that bring together academics, peer connection, and clinical support, Oregon is setting a standard for how communities can nurture resilience, support wellness, and create pathways to long-term success for our youth and families.”
 

For Dr. Joe Morelock, Superintendent of Willamette ESD, this partnership reflects the district’s deep commitment to innovation in education: “I’m proud that WESD is leading the way in the Mid-Willamette Valley with our Discovery Academy—a recovery high school that exemplifies our commitment to supporting students and families in building a strong foundation for their own success. This collaboration with 4D Recovery ensures an integrated experience with academics, peer connections, and behavioral health services. We believe this partnership will provide our students in recovery the support and opportunity they need to achieve graduation, build resilience, and light their path forward.”
 

The opening of Discovery Academy and 4D Recovery’s Salem site is not only a milestone for the Mid-Willamette Valley, but also a national model for how schools and recovery services can come together to change the lives of young people and families.
 

Pam Pearce, one of the founders of Oregon’s first recovery high schools—Harmony Academy—emphasized the unique value of this approach: “Discovery Academy and 4D Recovery are proof of what’s possible when education and prevention come together to support youth on their recovery journey. This is more than a school—it’s a lifeline, offering hope, structure, and opportunity for a brighter future.”

Kelso, WA – Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue has acquired a new piece of equipment to assist in moving patients downstairs and through tight spaces.

The new Stryker “Xpedition powered Stair Chair” device is used to navigate stairs safely and through tight spaces on medical calls when the patient has difficulty walking or it may worsen their condition.

The grant used to purchase the new battery-powered stair chair was awarded in February this year for $21,621 by The Health Care Foundation, located in Longview, WA.  Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue currently uses an older style Stryker stair chair that is carried by firefighters. The powered model is wider and has a greater weight capacity, has built-in lighting for darker environments, and will help to reduce on-the-job injuries of EMS providers.

This is the third grant Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue has applied for and received from The Health Care Foundation in the past ten years. HCF has also funded our pilot program for public CPR classes and advanced medical training manikins.

The Health Care Foundation was founded to perpetuate the community’s investment in Monticello Medical Center when it was sold in 1984.  Its mission is to promote the physical and mental health and healthcare of the people living within the service area of the Longview, Washington acute care hospital.  More on The Foundation can be found on their website: https://thehealthcarefoundation.org/grant-information/ .

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue receive upgraded equipment that digitally alerts drivers on the road they’re approaching. Cowlitz 2 received five devices from the State of Washington, Washington Traffic Safety Commission, that run the program “Safety Cloud”, powered by the company HAAS Alert that will be installed on their front-line apparatus.

Drivers on the road, if they’re actively using popular mapping systems like Waze, Apple Maps, or standard mapping systems installed on 2018 and newer Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM, along with 2024 and newer Volkswagen vehicles will receive a notification that an emergency vehicle is approaching or they are approaching an active emergency scene. This allows drivers to be alert, adjust their speeds, and pull the right.

The technology also allows firefighters to be notified of other approaching apparatus, intersections, etc. which can reduce risk of a collision. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an estimated 16,500 vehicle collisions involving fire apparatus were reported in 2023, often occurring at intersections.

There are no extra costs or steps the public needs to take with this technology; they will automatically receive notifications if actively using a mapping system listed.

Fire Chief Scott Goldstein comments on the addition to the fleet, “This alerting system will assist in keeping the public and our firefighters safe on the roadways. This technology bridges the gap between what the law requires and what actually happens on the road. When our lights activate, Safety Cloud gives drivers critical extra time to anticipate us and safely react – protecting both our personnel and the public we serve. Pull to the right for lights and sirens has been a public safety message in the fire service for a long time. With this technology now there’s an additional warning for folks”.

Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue joins more than 4,000 agencies nationwide already using this protection system, with HAAS Alert actively expanding to additional vehicle platforms.  For more information on HAAS Alert visit: https://www.haasalert.com/

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan is removing the Level 1 evacuation status for the area near Rice Road in Sweet Home.  Evacuation levels were put in place after a field fire broke out endangering nearby homes.

Yesterday, at 4:11 p.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office received calls on 911 reporting a field fire on Rice Road near Upper Calapooia Drive, south of Sweet Home.   Deputies responded and started evacuating nearby homes while the Sweet Home Fire District personnel diligently fought the fire.  As deputies were conducting evacuations, Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management personnel were preparing to put a larger area into a Level 3 “Go now!” evacuation status.  However, fire personnel were able to quickly get a handle on the fire, making the Level 3 Evacuation unnecessary, and it was released as a precautionary Level 1 “Be Ready” evacuation status.

Fire personnel continued to attack the fire through the night and as of this morning they were mopping up the fire. 

Linn County Detectives responded and investigated the cause of the fire with the assistance of the State Fire Marshal.  The investigation showed the fire was started by a resident who was operating a pickup in a field of tall grass.  The fire burned about 25 acres, damaged a pumphouse, and destroyed an RV parked in the field.  There were no injuries.

When the investigation is completed, it will be sent to the District Attorney’s Office for review of criminal charges.

We want to thank all the fire personnel for quickly controlling the fire, and the Sweet Home Police Department for assisting with initial evacuations when the fire broke out.

Correction- The non-involved vehicle was also westbound and making a righthand turn into a driveway.

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 19, 2025)- On Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 9:22 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milpost 4, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota 4Runner, operated by Ryker Thomas Pittam (19) of Albany, swerved to avoid another vehicle attempting to make a left turn into a driveway. The Toyota lost control and rolled, ejecting the operator in the process.

The operator of the Toyota (Pittam) was transported to an area hospital and was later declared deceased.

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

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

Salem, Ore. — As Labor Day Weekend approaches, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is encouraging families, horseback riders, hikers, and nature lovers of all types to consider exploring Oregon’s less-traveled state forest campgrounds, including Northrup Creek Horse Camp in the Clatsop State Forest.

Unlike high-traffic destinations across state forests or state parks that book up months in advance, many of ODF’s equestrian campgrounds still offer space for late-summer adventurers, even for those without horses. These quieter sites provide a chance to unplug, unwind, and connect with the outdoors—all while supporting sustainable recreation and forest education.

“Oregon’s state forests are spaces for everyone,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program Manager. “Our developed recreation sites provide opportunities for recreationalists of all sorts. Whether you're camping, hiking, riding horses, or just enjoying the trees, you're able to find a place for you in Oregon’s state forests, our common ground.”

Northrup Creek Horse Camp – A Hidden Gem for Horseback Riders and Campers

Tucked into the lush, shaded groves of the Clatsop State Forest, Northrup Creek Horse Camp is a peaceful retreat for equestrians and outdoor lovers alike. Designed with horse users in mind, it features eight campsites with corrals and space for trailers, along with three drive-up tent sites. Of the eight sites with corrals, three are available for non-equestrian campers looking for a quieter forest experience.

• Equestrian-Friendly: Eight spacious sites with 4-horse corrals and trailer parking.
• Trails to Explore: Trail networks start right at camp, offering scenic forest rides and hikes for all non-motorized users.
• Simple Amenities: Vault toilets, a hand-pump water source, and manure bins maintain the rustic charm of the site.
• Shared Experience: While designed for horseback riders, Northrup—and all ODF-managed equestrian campgrounds—also welcomes hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and families.

Reservations are required—and as of now, sites are still available for Labor Day weekend. For full details and to reserve your spot, visit ReserveAmerica – Northrup Creek Horse Camp.

Other Less Crowded Options?

In addition to Northrup Creek, ODF manages several under-the-radar campgrounds that typically enjoy lower visitation, even during busy summer weekends. These campgrounds are open to equestrian and non-equestrian visitors alike:

• Santiam Horse Camp (Santiam State Forest): Welcomes all non-motorized recreationalists with trail access right from camp in the beautiful Santiam Canyon.
• Stagecoach Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): Perfect for campers with or without horses, with direct access to Tillamook’s eastern trail system.
• Reehers Camp Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): A historic Civilian Conservation Corps site offering trails, rustic amenities, and quiet camping a mere few miles from the town of Timber.

Whether you're saddling up, lacing up your hiking boots, or simply seeking peace beneath the trees, these hidden gems offer a chance to enjoy Oregon’s forests without the crowds.

See ODF’s Recreation, Interpretation and Education website for a complete list of state forests recreation areas.

UPDATE: FIRE CAUSE - 08/26/25

A fire investigator determined that the fire was caused by an unattended candle that ignited nearby combustibles. In total, six units were affected by the fire, and up to ten residents were displaced as a result. The American Red Cross responded to the incident to provide additional assistance, in conjunction with our Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains.

Bystanders provided raw video footage of the fire and granted permission to share it with the news media. 

• Barberry Drive Fire - Video 1 - Author: Roxelle Dixon
• Barberry Drive Fire - Video 2 - Author Name Not Given

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At approximately 8:56 p.m., Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a report of a fire at a 12-unit apartment complex located at 2050 NE Barberry Dr.

First-alarm crews arrived on scene around 9:00 p.m. and found heavy fire conditions, with flames visible from two second-story windows and extending through the roof. Firefighters initiated an aggressive attack while simultaneously conducting a search of the complex. By 9:09 p.m., the first-in crew reported the main body of fire had been knocked down.

Given the volume of fire and potential for rescue, the Incident Commander requested a second alarm to bring in additional resources. Crews quickly contained the fire and performed a thorough search of all impacted units. While there were initial reports of possible injuries, firefighters confirmed that no residents were injured.

Firefighters will remain on scene throughout the evening to fully extinguish hot spots and ensure the building is safe. A Hillsboro Fire Investigator responded to the scene to investigate. The fire investigation is ongoing, and no official cause has been determined.

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Cornelius Fire Department, American Medical Response, Hillsboro Police Department, and Portland General Electric.

Yesterday afternoon just after 4pm Sweet Home Fire and ODF South Cascade were dispatched to a large natural cover fire on Rice Road in the Holley area just West of Sweet Home. The fire was rapidly spreading and reported to be moving toward homes. The Incident Commander immediately requested a second alarm assignment, and once on scene he upgraded it again requesting a third alarm assignment. The 2^nd and 3^rd alarm upgrades brought firefighters and apparatus from Brownsville, Halsey, and Lebanon Fire.  Also assisting with move ups to cover those agencies, were crews from Scio and Albany. Pacific Power responded to the scene and de-energized all power lines in the area. A type 1 helicopter was requested and responded providing direct air attack. A dozer was brought in as part of the ODF response, and was utilized for fireline construction. The Linn County Sherrif’s Office with assistance from Sweet Home Police, conducted evacuations.

The fire burned 25 acres, destroying one RV, damaging the siding on a pumphouse, and causing minor heat damage to multiple structures. There were no casualties or injuries reported. The cause of the fire was determined to be a pickup truck being operated in tall dry grass. The fire started underneath that pickup truck, which was able to escape the area undamaged. It then spread to the nearby RV and into both standing and cut grass fields as well as brush and heavy timber. Level 3 evacuations were ordered for the area of Rice Road and Crescent Hill Road, however those orders were quickly lowered to level 1 evacuations as crews stopped the forward progress of the fire by 5:24 pm.

As of this morning, the level 1 evacuations remain in place while crews continue to mop up the fire. For updated on evacuations, please follow or contact the Linn County Sherrif’s Office. The fire is currently 60% contained and crews expect full containment by the end of the day. Once full containment is achieved, all evacuation orders will be lifted. ODF South Cascade and Sweet Home Fire are being assisted today with mop up operations by Scio Fire and Albany Fire.

ODF South Cascade provided 6 engines, 1 water tender, 1 dozer and 4 overhead team members with a total of 18 personnel. Structural fire apparatus on scene included 9 engines, 7 water tenders, and 5 overhead team members, with a total of 40 personnel.

photo credit to Corbin Henderson, Lebanon Fire Photographer

ST. HELENS, Ore. [Aug 26, 2025] — The Columbia County Board of Commissioners has taken formal action following the completion of a workplace investigation involving Commissioner Casey Garrett. The investigation was conducted by an independent third party to ensure an objective and thorough review.

In response, the Board issued a Letter of Expectation to Commissioner Garrett, outlining required steps to ensure compliance with County rules and to protect staff. These steps include restrictions on certain interactions, participation in workplace training, and adherence to established personnel policies.

A redacted copy of the letter, entered into the public record, is being released with this statement. Redactions were made to protect the privacy of employees and departments involved.

The Board of Commissioners reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional workplace for all County employees and to upholding the public trust.

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

FIRE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

Salem, Ore. –  Oregonians with a dream of “hitting the big one” have a chance to win a Powerball jackpot worth an estimated $815 million in Wednesday’s drawing. It’s the first time the Powerball has climbed this high since the $1.3 billion jackpot was won in Portland on April 6, 2024.  

The Powerball jackpot has been hit 11 times since the $1.3 billion dollar win in Oregon, with winning jackpots all under $700 million. Since the current jackpot run up began on June 1, Oregon has seen 546,633 winners and more than $7.6 million in total Powerball game winnings. Four Powerball jackpots have been won this year, including the $328.5 million prize won by a Beaverton man on January 18.

"With Oregon's two recent Powerball jackpot wins, the excitement for our players extends to their community and our retailers,” said Heidi Quiring, Oregon Lottery’s manager of player services. “A win of this size can have a significant ripple effect." 

A $50,000 winning Powerball ticket was purchased in Salem for the August 25 drawing, but the game’s top prize went unclaimed.

Oregon Lottery retailers who sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, a retail location that sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus.

Powerball is a multi-state jackpot operated by 44 states, plus the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you always sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim your prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of the drawing to claim their prize.

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

SALEM, Oregon— Tours of the historic building will be offered eight times a day Thursday through Monday starting this week and running through October when the building closes for the season.

Previously, the tours were offered three days a week due to low staffing levels this year. Now both the historic building and the Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Access to the Kam Wah Chung building is only available during guided tours.

The Kam Wah Chung building is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and businesses of two Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay and Lung On. For more than 60 years the building was a social, medical and religious center for Oregon's Chinese community.

Tours of the historic building will run at the top of every hour, the last one beginning at 4 p.m. The free, 45-minute historic building tour begins at the Interpretive Center at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. Space is limited to 8 people per tour.  

For more information or questions about booking tours and operating hours, please call the park office at 541-575-2800.

If you don’t have the opportunity to visit this heritage site, you can learn more about the site and Chinese American history in Oregon through these online resources:

• Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project
• National Historic Landmark Nomination: Kam Wah Chung Company Building
• Oregon Encyclopedia: Chinese Americans in Oregon and Kam Wah Chung and Co.
• Oregon Historical Society: Beyond Chinatown: Uncovering Oregon’s Rural Chinese History and Centering Chinese History in Oregon and Herbs & Roots: A History of Chinese Doctors in the American Medical Marketplace

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 08/28/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS August 28, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/87931930355
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 253 215 8782, +8 793 193 0355, +1 346 248 7799

What: After months of slow negotiations, advanced practice providers (APPs) with Legacy’s Specialty Departments are rallying to raise public awareness of their efforts to settle a fair first contract. The ONA-represented APPs have been bargaining with Legacy since May 2024. They are asking for continuing education guarantees, improved and clear leave of absence policies, affordable health insurance, and competitive wages in line with other healthcare systems.

When: Today, August 26, 2025

Rally and Sign Waving from 4:00-6:00 p.m.
ONA-represented employees bargaining for a first contract will be available for interviews.

Where: Outside Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
NE corner of North Stanton St and North Vancouver Ave, Portland

Why: APPs (nurse practitioners, physician associates and clinical nurse specialists) make up about a third of the providers with Legacy Medical Group but they have very little say in decision-making. They have worked for years to partner with Legacy leadership only to see their requests denied.

Like their RN colleagues, APPs in many departments are short-staffed and overworked making it difficult to retain existing caregivers or recruit new ones. Many APPs feel that they have not been provided with the right resources or support to do their jobs effectively. This has lead to high levels of frustration and moral injury.

Legacy Health is a private nonprofit health system that operates eight hospitals and more than 70 clinics in Oregon and Washington.

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

# # #

HILLSBORO, Ore. – Portland Community College announced the appointment of Vicky López Sánchez of Hillsboro as the permanent Vice President of Student Affairs, effective immediately.

López Sánchez, who had been serving as interim VP of Student Affairs this past year, holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Portland State University. She previously served as PCC’s Executive Dean of K12 & Community Partnerships, where she championed initiatives to strengthen pathways between schools, communities, and the college.

“This is an incredible honor, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue serving PCC students and our community,” López Sánchez said. “My priorities include strengthening student belonging and well-being, improving how we guide and support students through their journey, and ensuring our services reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of the communities we serve.”

The Office of Student Affairs oversees the full spectrum of the student experience — from admissions, advising, counseling and financial aid to student leadership and career services. The VP of Student Affairs leads PCC’s student support services and provides strategic leadership and direction for more than 35 departments, programs and services across the entire college.

“Vicky has served in the interim role with dedication, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to student success,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “Her deep understanding of student needs, collaborative leadership style, and vision for equity-centered support services have made a significant impact across the college. I look forward to her continued leadership as we work together to create a supportive and thriving environment for all students.”

López Sánchez is excited to continue leading in a role that is student-centered and outcomes-based.

“The best part of this role is uplifting others; students, staff, and communities,” she added. “I look forward to working with our team to remove barriers, reimagine what’s possible, and help students achieve their dreams.” 

IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 25, 2025

Press contact:

Monice Wong: mwong@portlandalliance.com

Suspect Indicted and Arrested for Sex Crimes

August 26, 2025

In June of 2025, Sherwood graveyard officers responded to a residence after being dispatched to a sex abuse in progress between 28-year-old Ramon Manibusan of Sherwood and a child victim known to him. Officers conducted an initial investigation and assisted with helping remove the child from the home. The Sherwood Police Investigations Unit immediately began investigating the allegations.

On August 5, 2025, the case was presented to a Washington County Grand Jury, and they indicted Manibusan on the following charges:

• Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (2 Counts)
• Sexual Penetration in the Second Degree

Following the indictment, a Washington County Circuit Court Judge issued a Secret Indictment Arrest Warrant. Manibusan was arrested by the Sherwood Police Department without incident and lodged at the Washington County Jail where he remains in custody.

The Sherwood Police Department would like to thank the Washington County District Attorney’s Office, the team at Cares Northwest, and the staff at St. Vincent Hospital for their assistance with this case.

PORTLAND, Ore.— Three Honduran defendants unlawfully residing in Oregon made their first appearances in federal court on Monday after being arrested and charged for trafficking fentanyl in downtown Portland last Thursday on National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.

Antoni Yahir Pavon-Rosales, 18, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Cristian Ravolales, 27, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Kevin Concepcion Ramos-Espinoza, 34, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, on August 21, 2025, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Central Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) and Bike Squad, PPB Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit (NOC), the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF), and the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) conducted a fentanyl enforcement mission in downtown Portland.  Investigators observed defendant Pavon-Rosales attempting to sell fentanyl and arrested him, seizing 22.5 grams of fentanyl and $795.  The same evening, investigators observed defendant Ravolales engage in drug trafficking and arrested him, seizing 45.9 grams of fentanyl and $579.  Investigators also observed Ramos-Espinoza engaged in multiple acts of drug trafficking and arrested him, seizing 14.7 grams of fentanyl and $2,461. Defendant Ramos-Espinoza has two pending delivery of controlled substance cases in Multnomah County Circuit Court.

All three defendants made their first appearances in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.  All three defendants were ordered detained pending further court proceedings.  Arraignments have been scheduled for September 24, 2025.

These cases were investigated by the FBI, PPB Central NRT and Bike Squad, PPB NOC, and the CCITF.  They are being prosecuted by AUSA Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, Clackamas County Parole and Probation, and the FBI.

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

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

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 100 times more powerful than morphine and 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is potentially enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aug. 25, 2025

Contact:

Denise Johnson, 503-302-6344, oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; white-space-collapse: preserve; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet in person from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3 and Thursday, Sept. 4 at Peavy Hall, PFSC 315, at Oregon State University College of Forestry, 1500 S.W. Jefferson Ave., Corvallis, OR 97331.  The Thurs. Sept. 4 meeting will be an off-site field tour to observe tethered logging in practice and discuss next steps.Both meetings are open to the public.  

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Edward Lawrence Nelson, died the morning of August 25, 2025. Nelson was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away at an area hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Nelson entered DOC custody on December 17, 2013, from Coos County with no parole date. Nelson was 77 years old.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

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UPDATE: 08/25/25 - Fire Cause Determination

A Hillsboro Fire & Rescue Fire Investigator has determined that an electrical failure of an electric blanket caused the fire. No additional information will be released about the victims. 

### 

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue is saddened to report that one of the victims rescued from the residential fire on August 16th has passed away from injuries sustained in the incident. The individual had been transported in critical condition to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, where they later died despite extensive life-saving efforts by firefighters, paramedics, and hospital staff.

The second victim remains under medical care.

The fire occurred on August 16th around 4 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters made an entry into the home and located two victims within four minutes of arrival. Both were removed from the residence within eight minutes of the initial 9-1-1 call. Crews immediately began advanced medical interventions, and victims were transported to hospitals. Simultaneously, firefighters worked to suppress the fire and ensure the safety of neighboring residents.

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue recognizes the swift, coordinated actions of its firefighters, whose training and commitment made it possible to rescue both victims under extremely challenging conditions. Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Hillsboro Police, and American Medical Response.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Hillsboro Fire & Rescue and partnering agencies, and no official cause has been determined. “Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time,” said David Downey, Fire Chief of Hillsboro Fire & Rescue. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our crews and the hospital staff who worked to provide every possible chance of survival.”

State of Oregon v. Michael Ray Solis

Marion County Circuit Court Case 23CR34138

Salem, OR – August 25, 2025 –  Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jodie A. Bureta has sentenced Michael Ray Solis, 21, to 25 years in the Oregon Department of Corrections without the possibility of parole for Manslaughter in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Firearm.

On July 1, 2023, Salem Police officers responded to reports of a shooting on Silverton Road NE. Medics arrived and found Steven Michael Hill, 34, deceased from a gunshot wound. Witnesses described three males running from the area, and surveillance video from nearby later confirmed those accounts. Through an extensive investigation, Salem Police Detectives were able to identify Solis as one of the individuals present at the shooting. Two witnesses present with Solis at the time identified him as the shooter, which Solis eventually admitted.

Investigators determined there was no prior known relationship between Solis and Hill, however Solis was associated with the 18^th street gang, while Hill had tattoos affiliated with a Native American, but often rival, gang.  The other two witnesses did not contribute to the criminal act and were not charged.

Solis was arrested on July 4, 2023, at the St. Paul Rodeo for being involved in a fight. Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy Jorge Ramirez detained Solis, and as the two walked toward the patrol vehicle, a handgun fell from Solis’s pant leg.  That handgun was later tested and found to be the firearm used to shoot Hill three days earlier.  Solis was released at that time, but arrested on July 17, 2023, when law enforcement had sufficient information to charge him with the death of Mr. Hill.  

The case was prosecuted by Chief DDA Brendan Murphy and DDA Justin Barbot-Wheaton.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy said: “This resolution was reached at the request of the victim’s family.  Although Solis was initially charged with murder, the family’s priority was a guaranteed conviction that would not be overturned on appeal.  I know they did not reach their decision lightly.  This sentence ensures the same minimum incarceration length as murder and acknowledges Mr. Solis taking accountability for his actions.   Most importantly, it provides Mr. Hill’s loved ones with a measure of justice and peace. The defendant will serve 25 years in prison with no chance of parole, bringing certainty to the family and a safer community.”

In Oregon, felony trial convictions may be appealed to higher courts, including the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of Oregon.  Sentences and convictions are often overturned or reduced, even when the state follows the law as it exists at the time of trial.  By reaching a resolution that avoids a lengthy appeal process and costly trial, the DA’s office ensures a certain and final outcome for the victim’s family.   

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office acknowledges the hard work and dedication of the Salem Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation and arrest of Solis.

Murphy added: “But for the relentless work of Salem Detective Stuart Gamble and the other detectives at Salem Police, I am convinced this case would have remained unresolved.  Salem is lucky to have one of the best police departments I know of.”

District attorney Paige Clarkson echoed that statement: “Marion County is fortunate to have such diligent law enforcement investigators and partners.  Through their work, we were able to provide the family with some sense of justice.”

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OREGON CITY ANNOUNCES NEW COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Oregon City, ORE. – The Oregon City Community Development Department will soon have a new face running the department, as Kelly Hart has been announced as the new Director.

With her most recent work happening in the city of Lebanon, Hart has more than 16 years of experience in municipal government, with many of those years spent in Community Development. Kelly has significant management and professional experience related to issues such as development, housing, economic growth and legislative affairs, which perfectly aligns with the position.

“Kelly quickly rose to the top when reviewing candidates for the Director position,” said City Manager Tony Konkol. “The Community Development Department, and City as a whole, will benefit from her experience and leadership style.”

Likewise, Hart said she is looking forward to joining Oregon City as well because of the City’s strong commitment to addressing important challenges with a collaborative spirit, which aligns well with her values.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Oregon City as Community Development Director. The city’s unique blend of history, natural beauty and opportunity for thoughtful growth really drew me here. I’m excited to collaborate with the talented team at Oregon City and the broader community to help guide development in a way that honors the city’s heritage while preparing for its future,” she said.

Hart replaces Aquilla Hurd-Ravich, who left earlier this summer for the same position in Tualatin. She will start at the beginning of October.

-END-

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking two volunteers to serve on the ATV Advisory Committee and ATV Grant Subcommittee starting Jan. 1, 2026.

The openings are four-year terms and include one representative for Class II (4wd/sand rails) and one representative for Class III (dirt bikes).

The seventeen-member ATV Committee meets once or twice a year. Duties include reviewing accidents and fatalities resulting from ATV recreation; reviewing changes to statutory vehicle classifications as necessary for safety considerations; reviewing safety features of all classes of ATVs; and recommending appropriate safety requirements to protect child and adult ATV operators.

The ATV Grant Subcommittee is responsible for reviewing and recommending grant funding in support of ATV recreational activities throughout the state. The grants support operations and maintenance, law enforcement, emergency medical services, land acquisition, safety/education, planning and development.

The Grant Subcommittee holds up to four public meetings per year that may be conducted either in-person or remotely. Computer access and experience is mandatory.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of ATV trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing accessible recreational opportunities.

To apply for one of the open positions, go to the ATV-AC webpage and click the “Committee Interest Form” link at the bottom of the section. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. September 12, 2025.

For more information, contact Jeff Trejo, OPRD ATV Safety Education Coordinator, at ejo@oprd.oregon.gov">jeff.trejo@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-586-9622.

Seattle – Over the last three weeks, federal, state, and local law enforcement have been working to dismantle a cartel-connected drug trafficking ring distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin throughout western Washington.

What: Press briefing on takedown of Sinaloa- affiliated drug trafficking ring

When: Monday, August 25, 2025, 11:00 AM PT

Broadcast media, please plan to arrive by about 10:30 AM PT to clear security and set up.

Where: Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division, 300 5^th Avenue, Suite 1300, Seattle, WA 98104

Who:

• David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division
• Teal Luthy Miller, Acting United States Attorney, Western District of Washington
• Colin W. Jackson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations

There will not be a call-in line. Reporters may livestream the event if desired.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Christopher Brayton.

Christopher Brayton, age 11, is a child who went missing from Redmond on Aug. 18. He was found Aug. 24.

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

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

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org  

Oregon Community Foundation Invests $1 Million

in Bold Arts and Culture Projects

Creative Heights Projects Celebrate Creativity and Elevate Cultural Voices

PORTLAND, Ore. — An audio archive that celebrates people who stutter. An independent film with a TV/VCR as its central character. A video series about the Albina neighborhood’s historic Black music scene. These are just a few of the 14 thought-provoking arts and culture projects included in the latest round of Creative Heights grants from Oregon Community Foundation.

OCF announced today it will invest more than $1 million in projects that celebrate bold creativity, elevate cultural voices and explore community issues across Oregon. Grants ranging from $24,000 to $100,000 are designed to stretch the creative capacity of artists and culture bearers.

For example, Portland-based composer and interdisciplinary artist Luke Wyland, who is also a person who stutters, said his project “centers my commitment to the stuttering community by expanding the Library of Dysfluent Voices, an audio archive of people with speech differences, through in-person interviews collected in partnership with SPACE, a stuttering nonprofit. Contributors share reflections on life and their relationship to their speech, which are then transformed into immersive ‘voice portraits.’ These portraits will form the foundation for a multimedia installation and performance series that celebrates the richness and complexity of dysfluency.”

Artist and curator Steph Littlebird will use her grant to expand a Contemporary Indigenous Art Biennial exhibit with the Salem Art Association that showcases the artistic talents of Indigenous artists and fosters cross-cultural engagement.

“We are so thrilled to showcase the deep well of Indigenous talent in the Pacific Northwest,” said Littlebird. “We cannot wait for everyone to learn more about the Native creatives and innovators carrying culture forward through contemporary art.”

OCF’s Creative Heights initiative has invested roughly $1 million per year since 2014 — supporting 151 projects across visual art, performance, folk and traditional arts, film and media, literary arts, museum exhibitions, humanities, music, theater, dance, opera, history, cultural heritage, and multidisciplinary works.

“We want to support bold creative visions — not just to advance the careers of these artists, but also to enrich Oregon’s creative landscape. These projects give communities access to groundbreaking arts and cultural experiences,” said Jerry Tischleder, Senior Program Officer, Arts and Culture, Oregon Community Foundation. “Opportunities like these are rare. We have found that when given the resources they need to reach for the stars, Oregon's creatives deliver.”

Other grantees include:

enTaiko | $66,000
To support a multisensory taiko performance that creates an inclusive experience for deaf, blind, neurodivergent and physically disabled artists and audiences.

"Echoes of Inclusion reimagines Japanese taiko drumming as a shared language of rhythm and movement, where disabled, non-disabled, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, blind, and neurodivergent artists and audiences create together," said Kazuyo Ito, Artistic Director of enTaiko.

Jason Hill with Albina Music Trust | $100,000
To produce an episodic docuseries exploring the history and amplifying the legacy of Black music and culture in Portland's Albina neighborhood.

“The history of Portland’s Black music scene is pretty amazing and yet most know little about it. This series with the Albina Music Trust is an effort to honor these amazing artists and their legacies,” said filmmaker Jason Hill. “Plus, we have the opportunity to do this when many of them are still here, and we can capture their stories in their own words.”

Masami Kawai with Portland Art Museum | $100,000
For Valley of the Tall Grass, an independent feature film that follows the life of a TV/VCR and explores identity and cinema’s language through an Indigenous worldview.

“With my film Valley of the Tall Grass, I'm telling a story of Indigenous people who lost ties to their land and found themselves in Oregon, a place I call home,” said filmmaker Masami Kawai. “We don't always have our traditional ways intact and sometimes we've lost our language. But we carry connections to family and value ways to sustain life and forgotten objects, like the TV/VCR at the center of the film. The grant will help bring this story to life.”

Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland with Oregon East Symphony | $100,000
For Rhythms of a Homeland, an original performance to be staged outdoor on Nez Perce ancestral land, blending the symphonic works of Native composer Jerod Tate with Indigenous drumming, dance, and visual storytelling.

"When I sit in the Arbor on the Homeland grounds, I feel a powerful connection to the land and its history,” said Nancy Crenshaw, longtime board member for Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland. “When the drums beat, and the spirits come to life, I am overwhelmed. To see this project underway is like a dream, and I'm excited knowing that through the gift of music we will bring people and cultures together and offer hope for the future."

Find a full list of the new Creative Heights grantees here.

About Oregon Community Foundation

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

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Portland Fire Supports Neighbors and City During Action-Packed Day

On Friday, August 22, Portland Fire & Rescue managed a high volume of emergencies across the city and region, as extreme summer heat contributed to a series of complex calls. From supporting neighboring fire agencies at a large warehouse fire to handling residential and vehicle fires, false alarms, and unique rescue situations, Portland Fire crews demonstrated coordination and adaptability throughout a demanding day of service.

Portland Fire sent several engines and trucks to assist Gresham Fire in battling a four-alarm fire at a tire warehouse. The incident produced large smoke columns visible for miles and required resources from across the region. To ensure continuous service within Portland, fire crews moved up to staff vacant stations and responded to mutual aid calls from nearby cities.

With so many resources deployed, leadership across the department stepped in to maintain full coverage. When a residential fire was dispatched, Portland Fire’s Deputy Fire Marshal and Operations Chief assumed incident command roles. At the same time, six additional units were dispatched to Front Street for what was ultimately determined a false alarm.

Elsewhere, Portland Fire worked alongside Corbett Fire crews to extinguish a motor home fire on I-84 — an incident that would normally fall under Gresham Fire’s jurisdiction. In North Portland, Station 22 crews spent more than two hours addressing a smoldering brush fire in the Baltimore Woods Natural Area. Later in the evening, firefighters concluded the day by assisting an individual who had become trapped between the walls of two buildings.

Throughout the day’s diverse and challenging responses, Portland Fire & Rescue’s commitment to protecting the community and supporting neighboring agencies remained clear.

Quote:

“Days like this show the strength of our firefighters and the importance of regional cooperation,” said Rick Graves, Portland Fire’s Public Information Officer. “No matter how many calls come in, or how complex the circumstances, our crews stand ready to serve this community and support our partners across the region.”

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Update

Today police located Nikki Coker and Israel Gonzalez at a residenc in east Vancouver. SWAT responded to assist.

Nikki Coker was located safe.  Israel Gonzalez was taken into custody on outstanding warrants. 

The Vancouver Police Department Domestic Violence Unit is continuing the investigation.

No further updates are anticipated.

Vancouver, Wash. –  Nikki E. Coker is missing under suspicious circumstances and was last known to be with her estranged boyfriend Israel A. Gonzalez.

Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Domestic Violence Unit are investigating. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Nikki Coker or Israel Gonzalez is asked to call 911. Photos of Israel and Nikki are attached to this release.

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At 2:10am on Sunday August 24th, Forest Grove Firefighters were dispatched to a reported brush fire in the 49000 block of NW Strohmayer Road in rural Washington County. A passerby discovered the fire and called 911 while also alerting the residents in a house directly in the path of the flames. Firefighters arrived minutes later to find a brush fire burning behind a house along a very steep embankment. Their first task was to protect the structure and make sure the residents evacuated. Firefighters were able to prevent the flames from spreading to the house and other buildings on the property. Other crews began to ascend the approximately 70 degree vertical slopes to begin extinguishing the flames as well as constructing containment lines. 
 

It took firefighters over two hours to deem the fire under control. This extended timeline was due to safety precautions taken with firefighters working in low light conditions in extremely steep terrain as well as working near damaged trees that had potential to fall on crews. Firefighters remained for several more hours extinguishing hotspots and strengthening the containment line. 
 

In total, the fire burned approximately one and a half acres of medium to heavy vegetation. There were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Due to high temperatures forecasted for today, a fire crew is remaining on scene throughout the day to monitor the scene for hot spots. 
 

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Banks Fire District, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Cornelius Fire Department, Oregon Department of Forestry and Washington County Sheriffs Office. 
 

# # #

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a residential structure fire at 12:52 PM on Saturday, August 23 at 66135 White Rock Loop.  No one was at home at the start of the fire and upon returning the Home Owner heard smoke alarms and saw smoke coming from various openings in the structure and proceeded to call 911.

On arrival Bend Fire & Rescue extinguished the fire containing it to a small closest on the second story of the structure.  The fire cause has been determined to be a failure in the closet fluorescent lighting, spreading hot debris to combustibles below the light fixture.  No injuries were reported at the scene.

Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind everyone of the importance of working smoke alarms.  Smoke alarms should be place on every level of your home (including the basement), inside each bedroom, and in the hallway outside each bedroom.  Some newer style smoke alarms contain lithium-ion batteries and can be effective for up to 10 years.  Additional information can be found on Bend Fire & Rescue website under “Community Programs”. 

(Gresham, Ore.) - A marathon mediation session resulted in ONA-represented nurses at Legacy Mt. Hood reaching a tentative agreement for their first contract. The tentative agreement now heads to all 440 RNs for a ratification vote.

“We’re proud to care for patients at Legacy Mt. Hood and serve the East County community. This tentative agreement demonstrates a real commitment to frontline caregivers, patients, and our community as a whole. If ratified, this contract will help recruit and retain nurses and ensure our patients receive the care they need and deserve,” said Jenni Suarez, RN at Legacy Mt. Hood and ONA Bargaining Team member.

Tentative Agreement Highlights

The tentative agreement includes several important wins for nurses and patients, such as:

• Just cause protections to prevent unfair discipline or termination.
• A strong grievance process with binding arbitration to ensure fair enforcement of the contract.
• A transparent, published wage scale that guarantees consistency and equity.
• Competitive wages in line with other hospital systems.
• Dedicated security staffing to keep frontline caregivers safe.
• Paid time off for nurses recovering from workplace assaults.
• A union shop to strengthen solidarity and support union growth.

“The closure of the Family Birth Center was what pushed us to form our union. We have worked tirelessly over the last two years to ensure a solid first contract we can be proud of. This contract is a fantastic foundation to build on for all the nurses who will follow,” said Christie Mikrut, RN at Legacy Mt. Hood and ONA Bargaining Team member.

The tentative agreement now moves to the full bargaining unit for a ratification vote.

Background on Legacy Health

Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, located in Gresham, is part of Legacy Health, the Portland metro area’s second-largest healthcare system, serving hundreds of thousands of patients and employing more than 14,000 people.

Ten ONA bargaining units—representing nearly 3,000 caregivers—are currently negotiating with Legacy, seeking improvements in staffing, wages, benefits, transparency, and workplace safety. ONA’s sister union, Northwest Medicine United (NWMU), represents another 475 healthcare professionals, including physicians, who are also bargaining their first contracts with Legacy.

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

# # #

On August 19, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a vehicle for expired registration when the driver, later identified as Randy Dean Manns, 56, of Alsea, attempted to evade them by pulling into a private parking space and exiting the vehicle. Manns was cited and his vehicle impounded.

During an inventory search, deputies discovered drug paraphernalia. Manns, who is on probation, was detained and a detainer was issued by his parole officer.

Following a search warrant, deputies found a loaded handgun, several ounces of methamphetamine, suspected additional illicit substances, and evidence of drug manufacturing and distribution.

Manns was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail and faces additional charges including Unlawful Possession and Manufacture of Methamphetamine (Commercial Drug Offense), and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Complex Incident Management Team 3 (CIMT 3) to manage the Flat Fire north of Sisters and near Lake Billy Chinook.   

The fire started yesterday (Aug. 21) and is now estimated at 9,000 acres. The fire has exceeded the span of control of the local Type 3 Team, so the larger IMT was activated and will take command of the fire tomorrow (Aug. 23).

“This extreme heat and dry fuels have made control efforts hard,” said Ron Graham, Deputy Chief of ODF’s Protection Division.  “On the positive side, given the lower number of current fires state-wide there are a lot of resources available to send to the fire.”

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is overseeing evacuations in the affected area. Community members are urged to stay informed about evacuation levels and be prepared to act quickly. For the latest evacuation information go to the Jefferson County Sherrif’s Office evacuation zones page and the Deschutes County Sherrif’s Office Emergency Info page.

“This is tough for local community members,” said Graham.  “Earlier this summer they had to endure the Alder Springs Fires, now this one is adjacent to that burned area impacting many of the same folks.”

Earlier today Governor Tina Kotek determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fire, and the threat exceeds the firefighting capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment, so she invoked the Conflagration Act for the Flat Fire.  That allows for more resources to be deployed to the fires to protect life and property.  See the news release here.

As firefighters continue to work to suppress fires around the state, ODF urges community members to help reduce the strain on firefighters by preventing new human-caused fires. Follow fire prevention guidelines and know the local fire restrictions currently in place: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

KODY JENSEN SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS PRISON FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST TWO SEPARATE WOMEN 

CASE #

24CR65775

24CR30623

24CR25435

August 22, 2025

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Kelly Skye today sentenced 23-year-old Kody Richard Jensen to 130 months in prison (10 years and 10 months) for multiple crimes involving domestic violence against his victim.

He was convicted of:
Rape in the First Degree Constituting Domestic Violence

Sex Abuse in the First Degree Constituting Domestic Violence 

Assault in the Fourth Degree Constituting Domestic Violence

Harassment 

Coercion Constituting Domestic Violence

In a separate case, the defendant was sentenced August 7, 2025 to 125 months (10 years, 5 months) for domestic violence against a different victim. 

In that case he was found guilty on July 10, 2025 of Coercion, Kidnapping in the Second Degree, two counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree Constituting Domestic Violence, Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, and two counts of Tampering with a Witness. 

Judge Skye ordered the sentences be run one after the other leading to a total prison sentence of 21-years and 3 months.

In a third case ( 23CR32481) a woman reported being raped while incapacitated- both while conscious and unconscious by Jensen on July 7, 2023.

He was charged with two counts of Rape in the First Degree and two counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. A jury found him not guilty on one of the rape charges and Judge Eric Dahlin acquitted the defendant on the other three charges on July 28, 2025.

The cases were prosecuted for the state by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Mihnea Moga.

After the sentencing he said:

“I commend the victims for their bravery to come to Court and face their abuser throughout these trials. I am very pleased with the result and hope that this sentence provides them with some consolation that the defendant was held accountable for his horrific actions.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Detective Jordan Smith for his outstanding work on this case.

MCDA would also like to thank  Multnomah County District Attorney’s Victim Advocate Allison Miller  for the care and compassion they showed the victims in this case.

THE FACTS INVOLVING THE SENTENCE TODAY:

Court records show that Jensen was in a relationship with a woman and committed repeated acts of serious domestic violence and sexual assault from July 2023 to October of 2023.

According to the sentencing memo, the defendant was in a relationship with his victim. He is a violent individual who repeatedly abused his victim both emotionally and physically, seemingly at every chance he got. Defendant’s violence was not limited to impulsive reactions. In addition to his decision to cause physical injury to her, the defendant sexually assaulted the woman after being expressly told by her that she did not want to engage in the conduct. Despite breaking free from the defendant after being raped in one instance, Jensen’s conduct continued that night by grabbing her by the throat and slamming her on the bed. Then, he would not let her leave with her clothing, but she was able to escape with only her bra and pants. The defendant’s violence is further evidenced by the fact that he was recently convicted for crimes of domestic violence against another victim.

THE FACTS INVOLVING THE EARLIER CASE:

In that case, he caused physical injuries to the victim by hitting her, preventing her from leaving his room using the threat of violence, and throwing a phone at her head so hard that it left a scar to this day. He also showed up at her location and took her against her will to an unknown location. The defendant exhibited similar conduct in that relationship and caused permanent and significant damage to that victim. Any inconvenience in his mind merited a violent response. He has demonstrated a pattern of continuous domestic violence and extremely dangerous conduct. He has demonstrated the opposite of remorse by attempting to tamper with the victim to alter her testimony. 

###MCDA###

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today for assaulting his girlfriend with a pistol on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Henry Jonathan Andrews, 29, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.

According to court documents, in October 2024, Andrews was driving with the victim on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation. Andrews became angry and pulled out a pistol. He struck the victim multiple times in the head with the pistol. Fearing for her life, the victim jumped from the moving car to escape him. She suffered extensive and life-threatening injuries as a result of the assault.

On November 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Andrews with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Andrews faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on November 13, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Warm Springs Tribal Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Pamela Paaso and Charlotte Kelley, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

Domestic violence is a serious crime that can include both physical and emotional abuse, and it is frequently hidden from public view. Many survivors suffer in silence, afraid to seek help or not knowing where to turn. The traumatic effects of domestic violence also extend beyond the abused person, impacting family members, friends, and communities.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you need assistance or know someone who needs help, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Many communities throughout the country have also created support networks to assist survivors in the process of recovery.

The StrongHearts Native Helpline offers culturally specific support and advocacy for American Indian and Alaska Native survivors of domestic violence. Please call 1-844-762-8483 or visit www.strongheartshelpline.org for more information.

# # #

Meeting Notification for 08/25/2025

Hockinson School District

Board of Directors

Regular Meeting

Monday August 25th, 2025 at 6:00 pm

Meeting Location: Hockinson Community Center and Zoom

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

KODY JENSEN SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS PRISON FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST TWO SEPARATE WOMEN 

CASE #

24CR65775

24CR30623

24CR25435

August 22, 2025

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Kelly Sky today sentenced 23-year-old Kody Richard Jensen to 130 months in prison (10 years and 10 months) for multiple crimes involving domestic violence against his victim.

He was convicted of:
Rape in the First Degree Constituting Domestic Violence

Sex Abuse in the First Degree Constituting Domestic Violence 

Assault in the Fourth Degree Constituting Domestic Violence

Harassment 

Coercion Constituting Domestic Violence

In a separate case, the defendant was sentenced August 7, 2025 to 125 months (10 years, 5 months) for domestic violence against a different victim. 

In that case he was found guilty on July 10, 2025 of Coercion, Kidnapping in the Second Degree, two counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree Constituting Domestic Violence, Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, and two counts of Tampering with a Witness. 

Judge Skye ordered the sentences be run one after the other leading to a total prison sentence of 21-years and 3 months.

In a third case ( 23CR32481) a woman reported being raped while incapacitated- both while conscious and unconscious by Jensen on July 7, 2023.

He was charged with two counts of Rape in the First Degree and two counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. A jury found him not guilty on one of the rape charges and Judge Eric Dahlin acquitted the defendant on the other three charges on July 28, 2025.

The cases were prosecuted for the state by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Mihnea Moga.

After the sentencing he said:

“I commend the victims for their bravery to come to Court and face their abuser throughout these trials. I am very pleased with the result and hope that this sentence provides them with some consolation that the defendant was held accountable for his horrific actions.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Detective Jordan Smith for his outstanding work on this case.

MCDA would also like to thank  Multnomah County District Attorney’s Victim Advocate Allison Miller  for the care and compassion they showed the victims in this case.

THE FACTS INVOLVING THE SENTENCE TODAY:

Court records show that Jensen was in a relationship with a woman and committed repeated acts of serious domestic violence and sexual assault from July 2023 to October of 2023.

According to the sentencing memo, the defendant was in a relationship with his victim. He is a violent individual who repeatedly abused his victim both emotionally and physically, seemingly at every chance he got. Defendant’s violence was not limited to impulsive reactions. In addition to his decision to cause physical injury to her, the defendant sexually assaulted the woman after being expressly told by her that she did not want to engage in the conduct. Despite breaking free from the defendant after being raped in one instance, Jensen’s conduct continued that night by grabbing her by the throat and slamming her on the bed. Then, he would not let her leave with her clothing, but she was able to escape with only her bra and pants. The defendant’s violence is further evidenced by the fact that he was recently convicted for crimes of domestic violence against another victim.

THE FACTS INVOLVING THE EARLIER CASE:

In that case, he caused physical injuries to the victim by hitting her, preventing her from leaving his room using the threat of violence, and throwing a phone at her head so hard that it left a scar to this day. He also showed up at her location and took her against her will to an unknown location. The defendant exhibited similar conduct in that relationship and caused permanent and significant damage to that victim. Any inconvenience in his mind merited a violent response. He has demonstrated a pattern of continuous domestic violence and extremely dangerous conduct. He has demonstrated the opposite of remorse by attempting to tamper with the victim to alter her testimony. 

###MCDA###

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal jury in Portland found Peter Igwacho, 64, a Cameroonian national residing in Anchorage, Alaska, guilty Thursday for wire fraud.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between April 2020 and October 2021, during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Igwacho filed at least five fraudulent applications for pandemic stimulus funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury and Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. The information on those forms, in support of his request for stimulus funds, was fraudulent. The applications submitted by Igwacho were filed on behalf of a sole proprietorship that did not, in fact, have actual business operations, payrolled employees, or the reported gross revenues. 

Further, upon receipt of the stimulus funds, Igwacho did not spend those funds on approved pandemic-related expenses but instead spent the money on personal expenses. The PPP and EIDL programs were designed to help small businesses facing financial difficulties during the Covid-19 pandemic.

On July 23, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count superseding indictment charging Igwacho with wire fraud.

Igwacho faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on November 18, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. It was prosecuted by Robert Trisotto and Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

(Salem) – Christopher Brayton (child), age 11, went missing with his father Christopher Brayton (father) from Redmond on Aug. 18. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that Christopher Brayton (child) may be at risk and is searching for him to assess his safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Christopher Brayton (child). Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of him or his father should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

They are believed to be traveling in a maroon Toyota truck with license plate 335NEC. They may be traveling towards Disneyland.  

Name: Christopher Brayton
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Feb. 1, 2014
Height: 5-foot-8
Weight: 184 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Brown
Redmond Police Department Case #25-25538
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2059189

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

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

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SALEM, Ore. — Bridge-strengthening work on the 17^th Street NE bridge over Mill Creek will begin Aug. 25. This Public Works project is expected to be completed in October.

During construction, traffic will be shifted around the work area. Please use caution while traveling through the work zone.

The project includes installing an access platform under the bridge, removing the asphalt from the eastern half of the bridge roadway and installing additional reinforcing steel.

This is the final of four planned Public Works bridge-strengthening projects using funds from the voter-approved 2022 Safety and Livability Bond. This work will strengthen the bridges to allow heavier trucks to safely pass over local waterways.

Drivers and pedestrian should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic control signage.

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

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Media hotline: 503-813-6018 

Pacific Power urges customers to conserve energy now

Extreme weather across the region is causing higher than normal demand for electricity, and Pacific Power is encouraging our customers to reduce electricity consumption now. Pacific Power is asking all customers to voluntarily take steps to reduce energy use to help reduce strain on the electrical grid. 

Customers can take the following steps to help reduce the strain on the grid:

• Switch energy use to off-peak hours (from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.) whenever possible. 
• Limit use of appliances that generate heat – including dishwashers, ovens and clothes dryers – to the evening or early morning. 
• Turn off lights, computers, televisions and appliances when not in use. 
• Use fans to keep air moving inside your home. 

For more information about energy conservation, visit PacificPower.net/SummerCooling .

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About Pacific Power 

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

On Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 3:25 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person walking between houses under construction in the 18000 block of NW Anastasia Drive in Bethany. The caller reported the suspicious person was leaving the location in a vehicle.

Responding deputies located the vehicle, a 2010 Nissan Versa, and identified the driver as 37-year-old Abel Arambula of Portland. Deputies noted duct tape had been placed over the license plate. Deputies also saw construction tools in the vehicle, and later learned that the vehicle was connected to a burglary at a construction site reported on August 7th, 2025.   

Deputies contacted the Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit to assist with the investigation and applied for a search warrant to locate evidence of the burglary. At about 9:16 a.m., investigators executed the search warrant at Arambula’s residence and recovered multiple stolen items.

Arambula was arrested and transported to the Washington County Jail on three counts of burglary in the second degree, theft in the first degree, and criminal trespass in the first degree.

If you have any information about this incident and have not spoken to deputies, contact the Sheriff’s Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 50-25-10943. 

UPDATE: 8-22-25 3:10 p.m.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office has made an arrest in connection with the August 18, 2025, robbery at the US Bank located at 6704 NE 117th Avenue in Vancouver.

Thanks to a public tip and diligent police work, investigators identified the suspect as 22-year-old Elijah Evans.

On August 21, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m., the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Detective Unit (TDU), with assistance from the Vancouver Police Department’s Crime Reduction Unit (CRU), conducted surveillance and located Evans at a residence in Orchards.

With additional support from CCSO and VPD patrol units, containment was established around the home, and an armored vehicle was positioned for safety. Evans exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident.

Detectives executed a search warrant at the residence and recovered key evidence, including clothing worn during the robbery and cash taken from the bank.

Deputies arrested Evans for Robbery in the First Degree (with a firearm) and two counts of Felony Harassment. They transported him to the Clark County Jail, where staff booked him on these charges.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public for their assistance and the valuable tip that led to the swift identification and arrest of the suspect.

On August 18, 2025, at approximately 11:35 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a reported robbery at the US Bank at 6704 NE 117th Avenue in Vancouver.

The suspect implied they had a gun and robbed the bank. The suspect then left the bank and rode away on a bicycle.

If you have information related to the identity of the suspect (photos attached), please contact:

CCSO Sgt. Adam Beck
adam.beck@clark.wa.gov

HILLSBORO, Ore- On August 21, 2025, a Washington County jury found Over Francisco Ochoa-Lopez, age 27, guilty of kidnapping in the second degree. Deputy District Attorneys Rayney Meisel and Alyssa Camp prosecuted this case before Judge Janelle Wipper.

After participating in his trial for the first two days, the defendant failed to return to court for the conclusion of the proceedings. The remainder of the case was tried in abstention. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest. Anyone with information about the defendant’s location should contact law enforcement.

On September 17, 2023, the defendant approached a young child who was playing outside at an apartment complex in Beaverton. He did not know the child or her family. He picked her up and brought her to his apartment. She told him “no,” multiple times. Once inside, he closed the door and touched her chin. When he put her down, the child took the opportunity to flee the apartment and run home to her mother.

Beaverton police responded to the scene and obtained a description of the suspect. Mr. Ochoa-Lopez was located approximately half a mile away a short time later. He provided a false name and gave conflicting stories about where he was coming from. He was eventually taken into custody.

“While a conviction typically brings closure to a victim and their family, the defendant’s sudden and ongoing absence denies that relief, and represents a safety threat to our community. It is imperative that he be located so that justice can be fully served.” said DDA Meisel.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the bravery of the victim and her family, and the work of the Beaverton Police Department on this case.

Authorities are actively searching for the defendant.

This morning a Washington County task force was requsted to deploy to the Flat Fire in Jefferson County. OSFM declared the Flat Fire as a conflagration this morning, August 22, 2025. Washington County agencies consisting of units from Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Forest Grove Fire & Rescue, and Banks Fire District created Task Force 44 and deployed for Sisters, Oregon at 1000 hours. Crews will remain on scene providing firefighting efforts for up to 14 days.

Drivers advised to use detour for east and westbound travel on SW Multnomah Blvd

PORTLAND, OR – Portland Water Bureau crews are repairing a main break at SW Multnomah Blvd and 54^th Avenue today, Friday, Aug. 22. Work is expected to last through the evening.

The City is advising drivers to avoid the area. Traffic is reduced to one lane, with a flagger directing traffic.  

Drivers should use caution while driving in the area. Keep your distance from crews, give flaggers plenty of space, and slow down when traveling through work zones.

Limited water service impacts

Water service is impacted for about 18 homes in an approximately six-block radius of the intersection. Impacted customers may be out of water or asked to boil water for the duration of the repair. If you have yellow or brown water at your tap and are impacted by a discolored water event, the Water Bureau is here to help. Report discolored water to the Water Quality Line. 

About the break

Crews are responding to a horizontal break in a 10-inch steel water main. 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 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 pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – All comments are welcomed and encouraged regarding the draft Clark County 2024 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) and substantial amendments to the 2023 Annual Action Plan. The CAPER details the accomplishments that were completed between July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, through funding received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Substantial amendments to the 2023 Annual Action Plan describe changes in the use of HOME Investment Partnerships program funds.

The full draft CAPER can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/cdbg-and-home-documents.

In accordance with Consolidated Plan performance report requirements at 24 CFR Part 91.520, Citizen Participation requirements at 24 CFR Part 91 Subpart B, and the county’s Citizen Participation Plan, draft performance reports and changes to the Annual Action Plan through this Substantial Amendment are advertised to provide opportunity for public comment.

A public hearing will be held Sept. 23, 2025, at 10 a.m. before the Clark County Council. Information about how to access this meeting is available at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/council-meeting-information.

Comments about the CAPER or the proposed changes may be submitted by email to een.Ebrahim@clark.wa.gov">Nooreen.Ebrahim@clark.wa.gov.or by calling 564.397.7834.

Comments will be accepted through 11:59 pm Monday, Sept. 22, 2025.

Substantial Amendment Changes

Funding allocated to the Second Step Housing Market Rate Unit Acquisition project in the amount of $421,959 of HOME funds, including $93,670 of CHDO set aside funding, has been rescinded.

Change in Use of Funding: Unspent HOME funding set aside for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDO) is being reallocated as undesignated HOME funds. CHDO set aside funding of $93,670 from program year 2023 is being converted.

On March 10, 2025, the Urban County Policy Board met to recommend projects through the 2025 request for application process, including contingency projects when additional funding becomes available during the program year. The following activities will receive funding: 1) Columbia Non-Profit Housing's River and Main new construction of senior housing will receive $41,153 to fully fund their request of $300,000. 2) Share's Tenant-Based Rental Assistance program will receive $17,619 to fully fund their request of $278,500. Tenant-based rental assistance programs provide rental assistance and case management services to people experiencing homelessness. The balance, $363,187, will be included in the program year 2026 application process.

VANCOUVER, Wash. (August 22, 2025) — Council for the Homeless has released the 2024 Homeless Crisis Response System Report for Clark County, Wash., offering a detailed look at both progress and persistent challenges in addressing homelessness in the region.

In 2024, 8,894 people from 3,804 households experienced homelessness in Clark County. While this represents a less than 2% increase in the number of people from 2023, the number of households decreased by 14%, signaling a rise in the average size of families experiencing homelessness. Alarmingly, 58% of individuals identified as newly homeless — a percentage unchanged from the previous year.

“These numbers highlight the urgent need for more affordable housing and continued collaboration across the entire response system,” said Sesany Fennie-Jones, chief executive officer at Council for the Homeless. “The data makes one thing clear: Solving homelessness in Clark County will take all of us, working together, with the right tools and resources.”

The 2024 data reveals that 43% of households experiencing homelessness identified as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). This is a reminder of the racial disparities that persist in housing access and stability.

Additionally, 2,583 children under the age of 18 were among those who experienced homelessness in 2024, underlining the need for family- and youth-specific solutions.

Despite the continued high demand, several positive outcomes emerged in 2024:

• 49% increase in families stabilized through rental assistance
• 10% increase in veterans entering housing programs
• 8% increase in youth and young adults (YYA) housed through coaching and financial support
• 91% of people who entered Permanent Supportive Housing in 2023 remained housed for at least one year
• 87% of those housed in 2022 remained stably housed after two years

“Each percentage point of progress represents a human seeking stability,” CFTH Chief Operating Officer Sunny Wonder said. “Behind every data point is a child, a parent, or a veteran who now has a safe place to sleep. We must continue to invest in what works and scale those solutions.”

The Homeless Response System relies on real-time, person-specific data tools, such as By-Name Lists and Case Conferencing, to identify people in need, coordinate services, and track outcomes. These tools have proven successful, particularly for vulnerable populations such as youth and young adults; veterans; and individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.  

In 2024, the CFTH Housing Hotline received nearly 70,000 calls, illustrating the scale of need and the crucial role of centralized access to services. With more than 5,000 people newly homeless in 2024 alone, the crisis is far from over. The need for data-informed, equity-driven housing solutions is critical to reversing this trend. Additional resources are needed to scale proven solutions and fulfill the mission to prevent and end homelessness in Clark County.

“Homelessness is not an individual failure; it’s a community challenge that requires community solutions,” Fennie-Jones added. “If we want to see fewer people without homes in Clark County, we must act boldly and collaboratively to remove the barriers that keep people from safe and stable housing.”

The full 2024 Homeless Crisis Response System Report for Clark County, Wash., is available at https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/by-the-numbers/annual-system-data/. A public dashboard displaying data from publicly funded homeless services agencies, updated monthly, is available at www.councilforthehomeless.org/system-dashboard.

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About Council for the Homeless: Council for the Homeless (CFTH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County, WA, by providing community leadership, compelling advocacy, and practical solutions to solve homelessness on an individual and community level. Founded in 1989, CFTH serves as the lead agency and coordinated entry for delivery of homeless services through the Continuum of Care for Homeless Services in Clark County, WA.

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging Oregon taxpayers to participate in an anonymous IRS feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through September 2, 2025.

Oregon is one of 25 states that partnered with the IRS to provide a free option for taxpayers to file tax year 2024 returns electronically directly with the IRS and the state. More than 13,000 taxpayers filed their 2024 Oregon state income tax returns with Direct File Oregon, including almost 4,700 who first filed their federal returns with IRS Direct File.

“It’s important for Oregon taxpayers to take this opportunity to provide their valuable feedback to the IRS on free tax filing options,” said Oregon Department of Revenue director David Gerstenfeld. “Oregon counts on us to create a clear and easy experience for our customers and free tax filing options help us meet that mission.”

The Oregon Department of Revenue, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS encourage taxpayers to share their perspectives and help inform this important congressional report.

To participate, visit the Free Online Tax Preparation Feedback Survey or the IRS.gov landing page. Participation is anonymous.

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MALHEUR COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 22, 2025) - On Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 7:52 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 95, near milepost 47, in Malheur County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Subaru Legacy, operated by Barry Thomas Hostler (48) of Truckee (CA), struck the rear of a northbound Case International 7220 (tractor), operated by Jesse Dean White (67) of Jordan Valley, that was moving at slow speeds.

The operator of the Subaru (Hostler) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Case International (White) was reportedly uninjured.

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

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

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 22, 2025)- On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 9:36 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepst 48, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Nissan Sentra, operated by Joseph Bowers Luker Sr. (74) of Eugene, left the roadway for unknown reasons, traveled down an embankment, and rolled to its side.

The operator of the Nissan (Luker) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by 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.