The Beaverton Police Department is warning the public about an organized theft crew believed to be operating throughout at least five western states by targeting gyms, fitness centers, and workout facilities.

The group’s method of operation involves stealing wallets, credit cards, and personal belongings from gym patrons while they are working out. The suspects then quickly travel to nearby retail stores, commonly Costco and Best Buy, where they rapidly make large purchases before victims realize their cards have been stolen or are able to cancel them.

The suspects often target high-value items including electronics, gold bars, and jewelry.

An April 30^th case in Beaverton involved three male suspects who investigators believe are connected to this organized theft crew. In that incident, a victim’s credit card information was stolen after the victim visited a gym in Beaverton.

Investigators learned one of the suspects fraudulently obtained a Costco membership using the victim’s identity before the group used the stolen credit card to purchase $18,759.96 worth of gold bars from a Costco store in Beaverton.

The suspects are described as Eastern European males, and investigators believe they may be involved in similar theft and fraud cases throughout the western United States.

Anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Beaverton Police Department through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 or email Detective Mat Groshong at oshong@beavertonoregon.gov">mathewgroshong@beavertonoregon.gov.

###

DALLAS (OR) – Today, a Polk County judge found Enrique Canales, age 42, guilty on all charges related to his sexual abuse of an adult family member. Deputy District Attorney Shannon Clausen prosecuted this case before Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park.

In 2025, the victim reported three acts of abuse to the Independence Police Department. Based on the ensuing investigation, police arrested Canales, of Independence, that same day. In February of 2026, Canales failed to appear for his first scheduled trial. Today, Judge Park also found Canales guilty of Contempt of Court for that matter.

The Polk County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for bravery in reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the hard work of the Independence Police Department.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 26 at 9:00.

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Theatre Department will present Green Day’s musical “American Idiot” as its spring main stage production.

The two-time Tony Award-winning hit musical, based on the Grammy Award-winning multiplatinum album, boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. This high-octane punk rock opera includes every song from Green Day’s album “American Idiot” as well as several songs from its follow-up release, “21^st Century Breakdown.”

“American Idiot” follows three disenfranchised friends – Johnny, Will and Tunny – fleeing suburban boredom for city life. Amidst post-9/11 paranoia, they face disillusionment, war, drugs and romance in a raw quest for meaning. It is a story of rebellion, lost innocence and finding individuality in a hyped-up, “idiot” America.

Directed by Allison Moon with musical direction by Dave Cole, “American Idiot” features a dynamic ensemble of CCC students, with scenic and lighting design by Chris Whitten, prop design by Allison Moon, costumes by Aiden McFarland and choreography by Wesley Roberts.

“American Idiot” runs May 21-31, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

The community is invited to an opening night reception in the Niemeyer Lobby on May 21 at 6:30 p.m., featuring music by Tokyo Joe and complimentary refreshments with the purchase of a ticket. Those who attend the opening night reception will be entered into a drawing to win Green Day merchandise.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors (62+) and free for all students. Tickets are discounted by $1 if purchased online. Visit www.clackamas.edu/theatre or call 503-594-3153 for reservations.

-30-

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive Session & Working Session Meeting on Monday, May 11, 2026 in the Parkrose High School Library located at 12003 NE Shaver St., Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

Please also join us for the Annual Central East Portland Rotary 3rd Grade Writing Contest Awards Ceremony starting at 5:30pm in the High School Library.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: staff wellness update, long range facilities assessment report, consent agenda, tax anticipation note update, board self evaluation results, osba summer conference, legislative advocacy update and student representative election process. 

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

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

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

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

Editors: Videos of Linda Novitski, Ph.D., discussing cyanobacteria blooms and advisories are available on OHA’s Media Resources page.

May 7, 2026

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

Cyanobacteria bloom season is here: When in doubt, stay out

PORTLAND, Ore.—With summer just around the corner, Oregon agencies have begun their annual monitoring of the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs for the presence of toxic cyanobacteria blooms.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) launched their seasonal freshwater surveillance activities earlier this week, as increasing temperatures raise the risk of cyanobacteria harmful algae blooms (cyanoHABs) in water bodies.

Cyanobacteria are beneficial bacteria found in all fresh water worldwide, but they can multiply into blooms under the right conditions, such as warm weather, sunlight, water temperature, nutrients and water chemistry. Many blooms are harmless, but some can produce cyanotoxins that make people and animals sick.

“When temperatures rise, many people head to their favorite water bodies to cool off, but those higher temperatures can also promote toxic cyanobacteria growth,” said Linda Novitski, Ph.D., recreational waters specialist in the Environmental Public Health Section at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Our goal is to inform people about the risks of exposure when recreating and reduce cases of illness due to cyanoHABs.”

Exposure to cyanotoxins occurs when water is swallowed while swimming, or when people inhale water droplets during high-speed activities such as water-skiing or wakeboarding. Symptoms of exposure to cyanotoxins include:

• Diarrhea
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Numbness
• Dizziness and fainting

Although cyanotoxins are not absorbed through the skin, people with sensitive skin can develop a red, raised rash when wading, playing or swimming in or around a bloom.

Children and pets are particularly sensitive to illness because of their size and activity levels. Similarly, livestock and wildlife can become ill and die after drinking from water bodies, troughs or other sources affected by blooms and potential toxins.

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. It is very important to get a pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible if they exhibit diarrhea, vomiting, breathing problems, difficulty walking or standing, or loss of appetite.

During cyanoHABs season, DEQ and local partners collect water samples at water bodies around the state with heavy recreational use, a history of cyanobacteria blooms, or where a bloom is visible. Samples are sent to a laboratory for testing; OHA analyzes the results and decides if an advisory should be issued.

Very few freshwater bodies in Oregon are monitored for cyanotoxins. For this reason, it is important for people to carefully observe any water body they choose to recreate in before taking the plunge.

OHA recommends that everyone not swim or do high-speed boating in water that is foamy, scummy, thick like pea-green or blue-green paint, or where brownish-red mats are present. Additionally, since blooms can wash up on the shore, people should avoid areas with algal mats that are either attached, floating or stranded on the shore.

Even then, looks can be deceiving. Certain blooms grow on or near the bottom of water bodies such as lakes and rivers. While some blooms make and release toxins into the water, they don’t change how the surface of the water looks, making them hard to see.

Community members looking for visual examples can find pictures of algae blooms in the Algae Bloom Photo Gallery or watch an explainer video on blooms at OHA’s official YouTube channel. If you are unsure, follow OHA’s guidance of “When in doubt, stay out.”

Open recreational areas where blooms are confirmed can still be enjoyed for activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking and bird watching. By being aware of signs of a bloom and taking appropriate precautions to reduce or eliminate exposure, people can enjoy water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and boating as long as boat speeds do not create excessive water spray. Fish can be eaten if they are cleaned with water from a clean water source and fat, skin, and organs are removed before eating.

To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Bloom website or call the OHA Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0440. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.

###

View this release online. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (May 7, 2026) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit is issuing a safety advisory for community members utilizing the Sandy River between Oxbow Regional Park and Dabney State Recreation Area.

Following a powerful storm cycle in December 2025, the river’s path has naturally shifted, creating new and potentially significant hazards for recreational users.

Rivers are dynamic, meaning their paths are subject to change during high-flow events. South of Camp Angelos, the Sandy River previously flowed north with the primary channel located east of a prominent wooded island. Following the December 2025 storms, the primary current now flows to the west side of that same island.

This is a critical point of education for the public: current satellite imagery and GPS mapping have not yet been updated to reflect this new topography.

Image: Aerial drone view looking southeast (upstream) at the Sandy River, showing a large sand bar in the foreground. The river channel has shifted to the right (west), hugging a steep forested bank as it flows toward new hazards located near a wooded island in the distance.

The change in the river’s course has introduced "strainers" – fallen and submerged trees – directly into the new primary channel. The current now pulls watercrafts and swimmers toward these obstructions.

Due to the combination of water depth, submerged rocks, and these new tree hazards, this section now contains small rapids -- making navigation difficult or unexpected.

Users may find themselves unable to bypass debris, potentially forcing them to abandon their crafts. Recent patrols have documented several abandoned inner tubes caught in the newly formed debris fields.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit has posted warning signs at both Oxbow Regional Park and Dabney State Recreation Area.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit encourages everyone to be prepared for unexpected river conditions. Before launching at Oxbow Regional Park, ensure you are equipped with the following:

• Life jackets - A properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket should be worn at all times while on the water.

• Communication Tools – Keep a loud, waterproof sound-signaling device (such as a whistle) attached to your person or life jacket.

• Lights – If you anticipate being on the water near dawn, dusk or night, carry waterproof lights.

• Situational Awareness – Do not rely on outdated digital maps. Maintain a constant visual watch for unmarked hazards and be prepared.

To provide a visualization, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is releasing drone footage and photographs of the affected area, which were taken May 6, 2026.

When reporting on this advisory, please credit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures public clarity and geographical accuracy.

The photos and drone video provided are authorized for use with proper credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Image: Aerial view of a river diversion around a wooded island, showing a hazardous collection of fallen logs blocking the left channel and a large sandbar on the right.

###

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved a new rate structure for large data centers and other large-load customers served by Portland General Electric (PGE). The decision creates Schedule 96, a new rate class required under House Bill 3546 (2025), also known as the POWER Act, to ensure that the fast-growing electricity needs of data centers do not contribute to increasing utility bills for Oregon households and small businesses served by investor-owned utilities.

The PUC opened the investigation in response to concerns about the impact of large loads raised in prior PGE rate case proceedings. The passage of the POWER Act created an additional statutory foundation for our work. The POWER Act echoes the longstanding regulatory principle that customer groups pay for the costs driven by their group, which ensures that large customers pay the full and fair cost of the infrastructure needed to support their operations.

The PUC’s decision ensures that data centers’ utility bills reflect the specific costs of serving their loads and protects residential and commercial customers from subsidizing the infrastructure needed for rapid large-load growth. The structure provides data centers clarity on what they must do to take service from PGE and allows them to reduce their costs by limiting their impact on the grid through efficiency and flexibility. Finally, the tariff requires that data centers pay for the emissions-free electricity required to serve their loads while meeting Oregon’s clean electricity mandates.

In addition to creating Schedule 96, the PUC adopted new contract requirements that will apply to all future agreements between PGE and data center customers. These requirements include predictable charges if a data center does not use the infrastructure PGE has built to serve them and a requirement that there are sufficient clean energy resources available before a large customer can take service.

Very large loads can also push up the cost of the energy and equipment needed to serve other customers. To address these less direct impacts from the largest facilities, the PUC approved a 1-cent per kilowatt-hour surcharge for Schedule 96 customers with 100 megawatts or more of allocated system capacity. Revenue from the surcharge will support programs meant to offset costs for residential customers, including programs that help low-income households reduce energy burdens.

“Oregonians should not bear the costs of explosive data center growth and data centers should be focused on limiting their overall impact,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “This decision ensures the largest energy users in PGE’s service area pay their fair share, have clarity and predictability as they make business decisions and support the programs that keep our grid reliable and our communities strong.”

The Commission approved a similar large load tariff for Pacific Power in Docket UE 433, their 2024 general rate case. Late last year, Pacific Power proposed and the Commission is now considering an updated data center-specific tariff that directly addresses the POWER Act in Docket UE 463.

May 7, 2026       

Portland, OR - Allen Easley, nicknamed the Grinch by some after he was caught on camera stealing wrapped Christmas presents from a family’s home, is heading to prison for 10 years and 8 months. He was sentenced May 6, 2026.

The sentence follows his convictions for the following crimes:

25CR72325

Burglary in the First Degree – Occupied Dwelling

Burglary in the First Degree with a Firearm

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

26CR03181

Burglary in the Second Degree

26CR23444

Supplying Contraband

Deputy District Attorney Alex Garcia - lead of the Multnomah County Burglary Task Force -  prosecuted the case for the State. After the sentencing yesterday he said: 

“Mr. Easley’s actions forever changed the lives of several people and warranted a long prison sentence of 128 months. I hope the sentence is a wake up call for Mr. Easley. Should he continue to do what he has been doing, there will be severe consequences. I sincerely hope that he moves on from this life and makes better choices.”

Easley is 39 years old and has a criminal history that dates back to age 18. He has five prior convictions for Burglary in the First Degree, four prior convictions for Burglary in the Second Degree, and six prior firearm related convictions.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Officer Michael Stevens and the Burglary Task Force for excellent work on this case.

We’d also like to thank Multnomah County District Attorney’s Victim Advocate Kelly Eoff for the care and compassion they showed victims during this case.

                                                  ###MCDA###

The Clackamas Community College Budget Committee will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, in Roger Rook Hall, RR 111 A & B, beginning at 6:00 PM. This will be an in-person meeting without public comment and can be watched via YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@ClackamasCommunityCollege-Boar. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@ClackamasCommunityCollege-Boar.

The proposed budget can be found on the website located here: https://www.clackamas.edu/docs/default-source/about-us/leadership/budget-committee/2026-27-proposed-budget.pdf?sfvrsn=da98646b_1. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.clackamas.edu/docs/default-source/about-us/leadership/budget-committee/2026-27-proposed-budget.pdf?sfvrsn=da98646b_1

PRINEVILLE, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District is declaring the beginning of fire season on May 8, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. Starting Friday, the district’s fire danger level will be “Moderate,” and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one) in Hood River and Wasco counties.

With record low snowpack, relatively low spring rain in lower elevations, and anticipated high temperatures, fine fuels—such as grasses—in the district have begun to dry out. So far this year, the district has experienced 13 fires burning 27.66 acres, of which half were escaped debris burns. Escaped debris burns are the number one human cause of fires in Oregon. Most Central Oregon counties have already enacted debris burn bans. You can visit beforeyouburn.net to see local conditions and regulations for outdoor burning.

The declaration of fire season brings regulations based on fire danger level. Regulated activities are those known to cause fires and following regulations will help reduce fire starts. Moderate fire danger level prohibits the following activities within ODF protection:

• No debris burning, including piles and burn barrels, unless permitted by the local forester.
• Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
• No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.

In addition to the fire prevention requirements for industrial operations under IFPL I (one), a fire watch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on conditions throughout the fire season. Be sure to check the fire danger level and restrictions in your local area or the area you’re traveling to.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to not become complacent in wildfire prevention. The fewer human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.

ODF’s Central Oregon District protects state and private lands in Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Grant, Wheeler, Gillam, Klamath, Umatilla, and Harney County. For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

For local ODF burn information, please call:

Prineville-Sisters Unit – (541) 447-5658

John Day Unit – (541)-575-1139

The Dalles Unit – (541) 296-4626

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery annual student art show runs May 12-June 3. An awards reception will be held May 12, noon-1 p.m., and guest judge Paula Bullwinkel will announce awarded works.

The exhibition showcases the finest artwork made by CCC students during the academic year in disciplines including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, digital design, jewelry making and more.

The Alexander Gallery is located in the Niemeyer Center on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the exception of holidays.

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

-30-

Vancouver, Wash. – On April 27, 2026, detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Children’s Justice Center began investigating the report of a sexual assault of a child.

On May 1, 2026, Vancouver Police executed a search warrant at the residence of Darold A. Slack. Investigators learned that Slack has been a foster parent to approximately 55 children in Vancouver between 2013-2025.

Slack was arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail on numerous charges including Child Molestation II (x5), Rape of a Child II (x3), Rape III, Assault IV (x2), Sexual Misconduct with a Minor (x2), and Communications with a Minor for Immoral Purposes.

Police believe there may be additional victims who have not come forward. Anyone with information related to possible child abuse by Darold Slack, and who have not spoken with police, are asked to contact Vancouver Police Department Children’s Justice Center Detective Cpl. Gunnar Skollingsberg at .skollingsberg@cityofvancouver.us">gunnar.skollingsberg@cityofvancouver.us.

This investigation is continuing and nothing additional is being released at this time.

###

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. (7 May 2026) – On Tuesday, May 5, 10:24 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 61.5 in Wasco County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a fully loaded, blue Peterbilt semi-truck with trailer, operated by Larry Wayne Lorenz (60) of Spokane (WA), was traveling southbound on Highway 97 near Bake Oven Road when it struck a pedestrian walking in the travel lane. The pedestrian, Lutah Avis Wallulatum (42) of Warm Springs, was subsequently struck by a second unknown vehicle in the northbound travel lane. She is believed to have been walking along the highway after the vehicle she was traveling in broke down a short distance from the crash location.

The pedestrian (Wallulatum) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Peterbilt (Lorenz) was reportedly not injured. He remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.

The highway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours for the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by South Wasco County EMS, Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Investigators are seeking witnesses or anyone who may have been traveling in the area at the time. They are especially interested in information from people who were between mileposts 57 and 68 on Highway 97 (between Shaniko and the Cow Creek Rest Area) on May 5, 2026, between 10 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., and who may have seen pedestrians or reported possibly striking an animal in the area during that time. Anyone with information is asked to call Oregon State Police dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-146196.

# # #

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

SALEM, Ore. – The State Forests Advisory Committee will host a tour in the Tillamook State Forest on May 14 and meet on May 15 in Forest Grove and the meeting will have a virtual option via Teams.

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

Details

Field tour: RSVP is requested for the field tour on May 14. See agenda for meeting locations and times. Tour attendees should provide their own lunch, refreshments, and transportation suitable for traveling on forest roads. Please RSVP no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, to Nick Palazzotto, nick.palazzotto@odf.oregon.gov, 971-375-6344.

SFAC meeting: The committee will meet from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 15, at the ODF Forest Grove District Office, 801 Gales Creek Road. Topics on the agenda include reflections on the tour, division updates, Forest Management Plan (FMP) / Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) updates, division staffing update, current operational status, and draft FY27 Annual Operations Plan (AOP). The public will have the opportunity to provide comments virtually or in person at the beginning of the meeting.

SFAC’s role

The State Forests Advisory Committee (SFAC) is comprised of citizens and representatives of timber, environmental and recreation groups as well as a representative from one of Oregon’s federally-recognized tribes. The SFAC provides a forum to discuss issues, opportunities and concerns, and offer advice and guidance to ODF on the implementation of the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The plan provides guidance for managing 640,000 acres within the Tillamook, Clatsop and Santiam state forests, and scattered state-owned forest tracts in West Oregon and Western Lane Districts through a balanced approach to generate revenue while prioritizing environmental and social benefits.

Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Nick Palazzotto, nick.palazzotto@odf.oregon.gov, 971-375-6344.

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (7 May 2026) – On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 4:48 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian fatal crash on Highway 99W near milepost 110.5 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Hyundai Elantra, operated by a 16-year-old female, was traveling southbound on Highway 99W near Junction City when the operator became distracted, left the travel lane, and struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian, Joel Robert Benjamin Coriell (35) of Junction City, had been walking along the southbound shoulder of the highway.  

The pedestrian (Coriell) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries and later died at the hospital.

The operator of the Hyundai had reported minor injuries. She remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.

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

OSP was assisted by the Junction City Police Department, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   
 

# # #

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

HIKING SAFETY   
 

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

1. Make a Gear List

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

• Water
• Water filtration such as a filter straw or a filtration waterbottle
• Rain gear and additional climate-appropriate clothing
• Compass
• Map
• Extra food
• First aid supplies
• Cell phone or radio with backup batteries

2. Bring a Map

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

3. Hike During the Day

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

4. Know the Area

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

• Local wild animals and what to do if you encounter them
• Local poisonous plants
• Local hunting areas and seasons
• Trail closures or advisories
• Local emergency alerts
• Local weather

5. Check the Forecast

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

6. Be Confident Not Cocky

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

7. Tell Someone Before You Go

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

8. Stay Together

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

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

###

Marion County, Oregon — Fans of the classic television show Night Court may remember the late-night courtroom antics and unusual cases. Marion County’s new Night Court program will be far less comedic — but it is designed with a serious purpose: increasing access to justice for the community.

This summer, Marion County Justice Court is launching a new “Night Court” initiative that will offer select evening court sessions entirely online. The pilot program is intended to make court more accessible for working residents, law enforcement officers, and others who may struggle to appear during traditional daytime hours.

Night Court proceedings will be held a limited number of times each month and will include certain traffic trials, as well as an ex parte docket where individuals may petition the court during evening hours.

“Access to justice means making the justice system accessible to the people we serve,” said Justin Kidd. “For many people, taking time off work to appear in court can be difficult or financially burdensome. Offering online evening proceedings gives community members another option that is both practical and convenient.”

The evening schedule is also expected to benefit law enforcement officers — particularly those working night shifts — by providing greater flexibility for court appearances.

The program springs from the court’s recent remodel. While the court building was under renovation, the court held only virtual trials for about a month.  Customers and law enforcement officers indicated that they enjoyed the flexibility and accessibility of online trials. Judge Kidd also found that virtual trials were an effective way to hold court outside normal business hours. 

“It was an epiphany,” said Kidd, “For safety and operations reasons, I need at least four clerks, plus a judge and a security person, to hold a trial while the building is open.  But when the building is closed, I can run a trial with just one judge and one clerk.” The streamlined staffing makes online night court a cost-effective way to increase access to justice.

As part of the program’s rollout, the Marion County Justice Court will also begin seeking applications for a paid pro-tem judge position to assist with the Night Court docket. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Judge Kidd to discuss the pro-tem process.

Woodburn, Ore.—More than two cords of firewood from the Tillamook State Forest were dropped off by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) staff at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn recently. The wood will be used in culturally sustaining services for incarcerated youth who identify as Native American. 

“In these times of tight budgets, we are grateful for the wonderful donation to support our youth,” said Griselda Solano‑Salinas, Director, Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations for the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA). “Our office helps coordinate Native American special events, activities and celebrations at MacLaren and other OYA facilities. These include smudging ceremonies, powwows, sweat lodge, drum circles, arts and crafts, and more. A campfire is often the focal point of many of these activities.”

The OYA typically has around 50 youth at its facilities that identify as Native American.

“Our goal is to connect them with their community through an explanation and exploration of their traditions and beliefs and help them better understand their roots and culture,” said Solano-Salinas.  “Our hope is this reconnection helps them be proud of their heritage and become productive citizens by living their culture values after they leave OYA.”

The donation may make a big impact at OYA but is a relatively small amount of the firewood generated by adults in custody (AICs) at the South Fork Forest Camp in the middle of Tillamook State Forest.  The camp is jointly operated by the Department of Corrections and ODF.

“Throughout the year our South Fork AIC crews cut up downed trees after storms and remove other hazard trees on or near roads, trails and recreational sites,” said Brian Burchfield, ODF’s shop foreman at South Fork.  “Each year we provide our REI (Recreation, Education, Interpretation) program 100 cords of firewood to sell at Tillamook State Forest campgrounds.”

The $5 bundles of wood not only generate funds for ODF’s REI programs but also makes it easy to “buy it where you burn it” a best practice to avoid spreading tree diseases. 

ODF actively manages state forest land to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians and this donation is one of many small ways ODF strives to fulfill that management goal.

For more on OYA’s Native American Services see: Oregon Youth Authority : Native American Services : Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations : State of Oregon

For more on ODF and DOC’s South Fork Forest Camp see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Adults in custody rehabilitation : Forest benefits : State of Oregon

IBR Environmental Review Confirms Significant Impacts to Hayden Island While Leaving Key Safeguards Undefined

[Hayden Island, Portland, OR] The Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program confirms that Hayden Island will experience some of the most significant and prolonged impacts of the project.

Key findings include:

• Permanent displacement of homes and businesses
• 10–15+ years of construction impacts
• Years of high-noise, high-vibration construction activity
• Long-term noise and livability impacts
• Documented impacts to river ecosystems and marine life
• Increased financial burden from tolling for daily users

Despite multiple meetings and repeated requests from representatives of the Hayden Island Neighborhood Network (HINooN), the SEIS does not provide clear, enforceable mechanisms for how impacts will be monitored, reported, or mitigated. Critical protections—particularly related to vibration, structural risk, health impacts, and compensation—remain undefined or deferred.

The SEIS also fails to evaluate real-world secondary impacts associated with major infrastructure projects, including homelessness near transit stations or under elevated structures, and does not use the Hayden Island Community Plan, adopted by the Portland City Council to mitigate impacts on Hayden Island during the Columbia River Crossing project, as a framework to protect the existing community.

Full SEIS document:
https://interstatebridge.org/media/downloads/final_seis/IBR_Final_SEIS_combined.pdf

1. Community Displacement & Land Use Impacts

The project would result in significant permanent displacement on Hayden Island.

• Approximately 59 total residential displacements, including about 39 floating homes located on Hayden Island
• Potential impacts to a 12-unit apartment complex, depending on design
• Approximately 28–58 businesses may be displaced, with an estimated 15–20 located on Hayden Island, representing a significant share of the island’s commercial base

The SEIS acknowledges that while relocation assistance is available, Hayden Island’s limited land availability, zoning constraints, and lack of available moorage space mean that many displaced residents and businesses will not be able to relocate within the island and may be forced to leave the community entirely.

Small, locally owned businesses—particularly restaurants and service-oriented businesses—may not be able to re-establish on the island due to space limitations and land use restrictions.

Even businesses not directly displaced are likely to experience significant revenue loss during construction due to reduced access, detours, tolls, noise, and prolonged disruption. Large-scale construction projects commonly lead to business closures beyond those formally acquired, compounding economic loss across the community.

These impacts extend beyond individual properties and represent a fundamental disruption to the island’s economic ecosystem and identity.

2. Economic & Community Impacts

Beyond direct displacement, the project creates broader economic consequences.

• Regional impacts include effects to approximately 135 businesses and 521 employees, with Hayden Island disproportionately affected
• Loss of local businesses reduces access to services and jobs
• Construction-related disruption is expected to reduce customer access and revenue for many businesses

The SEIS acknowledges impacts to community cohesion, including both temporary disruption and permanent changes to the character of the island.

3. Construction Duration & Intensity

Construction is expected to be long-term and highly disruptive.

• Total construction duration: 10+ years
• Community-level impacts may last up to 15 years

Hayden Island-specific construction timelines include:

• Columbia River bridge construction: 6–8 years
• Interchange and local roadway work: 4–10 years

This represents prolonged, overlapping construction phases that will affect nearly every aspect of daily life on the island.

4. Noise, Vibration & Livability Impacts

Residents will experience significant noise and vibration impacts.

Construction noise:

• Heavy equipment including pile drivers, trucks, and concrete equipment
• Noise levels estimated at 82–94 dBA near residences
• High-noise activities occurring over hundreds of days

Vibration:

• Acknowledged from drilling and pile driving
• No clearly defined vibration thresholds
• No enforceable protections against structural damage
• No defined compensation framework

Floating home residents are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to in-water construction activities, where noise and vibration impacts may be more intense and prolonged.

In addition to construction impacts, the SEIS identifies long-term operational noise impacts, with some locations expected to exceed highway noise thresholds even after mitigation measures such as sound walls are installed.

These conditions represent both short-term disruption and long-term degradation of livability.

5. Traffic, Access & Daily Life Disruption

Construction and design changes will significantly affect mobility and access.

• Traffic congestion and detours over many years
• Increased truck traffic on local roads
• Sidewalk closures and reduced pedestrian and bicycle access
• Boating delays for floating-home residents due to construction near North Portland Harbor

The use of nearby sites for construction staging will increase noise, congestion, and visual disruption near residential areas.

6. Tolling Impacts

The project includes variable-rate tolling, which will directly impact Hayden Island residents.

• Residents rely on the bridge daily for basic needs such as groceries, work, healthcare, and school
• Tolling introduces ongoing financial burden for daily travel
• No clearly defined, resident-specific mitigation measures are provided

This represents a long-term cost impact layered on top of construction disruption and displacement.

7. Air Quality & Health Impacts

Construction of this scale will result in prolonged exposure to air pollution.

• Dust, diesel exhaust, and emissions from heavy equipment and truck traffic
• Pollutants include particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, and other harmful emissions
• Impacts concentrated near homes, staging areas, and haul routes
• Duration of 9–15 years

These pollutants are associated with increased risks of asthma, respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, and other long-term health effects.

Residents living near major freeway corridors—particularly within 500–600 feet—face the highest exposure risk. Hayden Island’s proximity to I-5, combined with extended construction duration, creates a prolonged high-exposure environment.

These impacts are cumulative and add to existing air quality concerns in the area, yet the SEIS does not establish a clear health monitoring or mitigation framework specific to residents.

https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/334-564.pdf

8. Marine Life & River Ecosystem Impacts

The project will impact the Columbia River ecosystem.

Fish:

• Underwater construction noise and debris will disrupt salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and other species
• Behavioral impacts include disruption to feeding and migration

Marine mammals:

• Sea lions and harbor seals may be disturbed or displaced

Habitat:

• Increased overwater shading from new bridge structures alters habitat conditions

9. Navigation Impacts

• Temporary closures and restrictions in navigation channels
• Impacts to river traffic and access
• Adjustments required for marine users throughout construction

10. Social & Secondary Impact Gaps

The SEIS does not evaluate several foreseeable impacts, including:

• Homelessness associated with light rail stations
• Encampments under elevated bridge structures
• Public safety implications
• Long-term management of these conditions

These are known real-world impacts of similar infrastructure projects but are not analyzed in this document.

Independent analysis has also raised broader concerns about the project’s impacts and overall viability.

11. Policy & Accountability Gaps

The SEIS acknowledges impacts but leaves critical questions unanswered.

It does not provide:

• A clear reporting system for residents
• Real-time monitoring transparency
• Enforceable protections for noise, vibration, or health impacts
• Defined compensation processes for damages

Additionally:

• Environmental justice analysis is not included
• Climate impacts are not analyzed
• The Hayden Island Community Plan is referenced only to support development, not to protect the existing community

Hayden Island Community Plan:
https://www.portland.gov/sites/default/files/2020-02/hayden-island-community-plan.pdf

12. Legal and Financial Viability Concerns

Independent analysis of the project raises additional concerns regarding legal compliance and financial feasibility.

These concerns raise questions about whether the project currently satisfies key federal requirements, including:

• Alignment between the project being advanced for funding and the scope evaluated in the SEIS
• Identification of sufficient funding to complete the full project, as required under federal fiscal constraint standards
• Compliance with federal “independent utility” requirements, which prohibit reliance on future, unfunded phases
• Whether cost projections and benefit assumptions meet federal cost-effectiveness standards for major infrastructure investments

These issues raise further questions about whether the project, as currently structured, can proceed under existing federal requirements without additional review, updated analysis, or independent audit.

https://cityobservatory.org/eight-reasons-the-interstate-bridge-project-shouldnt-and-cant-legally-move-forward/

Conclusion

The Final SEIS confirms that Hayden Island will experience:

• Significant displacement of residents and businesses
• More than a decade of disruptive construction
• Long-term noise, vibration, and air quality impacts
• Ongoing financial burden from tolling
• Lasting impacts to the river ecosystem

Hayden Island is home to more than 3,000 residents and supports over 600 jobs, making it a significant and active community—not a marginal project area.

At the same time, the document does not clearly define how these impacts will be managed, monitored, or mitigated for the people who live there.

The SEIS acknowledges significant harm to Hayden Island but does not establish clear, enforceable mechanisms to protect residents, businesses, or the environment. It also fails to evaluate foreseeable secondary impacts associated with transit infrastructure and large elevated structures.

Core Takeaway

Hayden Island bears some of the highest impacts of the IBR project, yet the Final SEIS does not clearly define how those impacts will be addressed, mitigated, or enforced—placing a disproportionate burden on a constrained but vital community.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 6, 2026  

MEDIA CONTACT:  

Monice Wong, Media Relations Manager 

mwong@portlandalliance.com 

“I Do at Darcelle” Invites Couples to Say Yes at Downtown Portland’s Newest Park 
Darcelle XV Plaza to Kick Off Summer of Love with Mass Wedding During Pride Weekend on July 18th  

PORTLAND, OR — Love takes center stage this summer at Portland’s newest park, Darcelle XV Plaza. Poison Waters, Voodoo Doughnuts, and more partners will welcome couples into the spotlight for “I Do at Darcelle,” a one-of-a-kind mass wedding celebration during Pride Weekend on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM at Darcelle XV Plaza, located at SW Park Avenue and Washington Street. 

All couples are invited to say “I do” where love gets the spotlight it deserves. Whether couples are making it official, renewing vows, or celebrating their story with a symbolic ceremony, this event promises a night of fun, flair, and unforgettable memories. 

Not your average wedding moment, “I Do at Darcelle” is part of Downtown Portland Clean and Safe’s citywide Summer of Love series and serves as a joyful celebration of Portland’s newest public park.  

Designed as a vibrant, inclusive gathering space, Darcelle XV Plaza honors the remarkable legacy of the late Walter Cole, known by the stage name Darcelle XV, and the legacy of the Darcelle XV Showplace, the longest-running drag cabaret on the West Coast. Darcelle XV Plaza is managed by Downtown Portland Clean and Safe and the Visit Downtown Campaign in partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation. 

“The Summer of Love at Darcelle XV Plaza is all about showing up for each other and celebrating the many ways we connect as a community,” said Poison Waters, one of Portland’s favorite Drag Queens. “There’s no better way to honor the memory of Walter Cole, Darcelle XV, and the opening of Darcelle XV Plaza, than by filling it with joy, celebration, and love in all its forms.”  

"Darcelle's lasting legacy on Portland is that this is a place where everyone is welcome to be their truest self," said Travel Portland President and CEO Megan Conway. "Our work is to inspire visitors, and Travel Portland is proud to support Darcelle XV Plaza's inaugural Summer of Love, which honors the flair, spirit and joy Darcelle brought to Portland." 

The evening will feature lively music, high-energy moments, and a dance party to close out the night. Portland drag icon Poison Waters and other fabulous guests will serve as officiants, fully licensed in the State of Oregon, bringing signature sparkle and personality to each ceremony. 

As part of the Summer of Love, “I Do at Darcelle” sets the tone for what this new public space is all about: a place to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories together. 

Event Highlights: 

• All are welcome: Legal weddings, vow renewals, and symbolic ceremonies  
• No cost to participate: Couples seeking a legal marriage must obtain a Multnomah County marriage license (approximately $60–$65)  
• Licensed officiant on site  
• Music, donuts, celebration, and a closing dance party  

Planning to Make It Official? 

Couples planning to wed should register at: https://forms.gle/LNbGMu7W9c9YHsM69 

Obtaining marriage licenses: Timing matters. Couples planning a legal ceremony should obtain their marriage license between May 16 and July 15, 2026 to meet Oregon’s three-day waiting period requirement ahead of the July 18 event. 

Guest Guidance: 

Couples are encouraged to bring their ride-or-dies, witnesses, and biggest cheerleaders, but keep it tight. “I Do at Darcelle” is designed as a shared celebration, not a traditional large-scale wedding. 

About the Plaza: 

As part of its ongoing commitment to vibrant, welcoming public spaces, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe will manage programming and daily activation at Darcelle XV Plaza in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation. This public-private collaboration ensures the plaza is not only beautifully maintained, but actively programmed with events, performances, and community gatherings that bring people together. Through this partnership, the plaza will serve as a dynamic, inclusive space in the heart of downtown — designed to foster connection, support local culture, and create a consistent sense of energy and belonging for Portlanders and visitors alike. To learn more: https://www.downtownpdxactivations.com/   

----------------------------------------------------- 

About Downtown Portland Clean & Safe: The Downtown Portland Clean & Safe District was established in 1988 to support additional cleaning and security in a 273 block-area of Portland's Central City. In addition to these important services, the district supports market research, retail recruitment and retention for Downtown Portland. The district is managed by the Portland Business Alliance under the direction of the district's board of directors.   

About the Visit Downtown Campaign: Visit Downtown is a program run by Downtown Portland Clean & Safe and the Portland Metro Chamber with additional funding from the City of Portland. Learn more at DowntownPortland.org. 

About Travel Portland: Travel Portland generates travel demand that drives economic impact for Portland by promoting the destination in bold, innovative and collaborative ways that harness Portland’s personality and values and that connect visitors to authentic experiences. Learn more at TravelPortland.com 

Portland, OR — The America 250 Oregon Commission, in partnership with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, is proud to announce the recipients of its fourth and final round of grant funding, awarding nearly $60,000 to 21 organizations across Oregon for projects and programs that commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. These awards are in addition to the previous three rounds of funding. In total, the program has granted more than $244,000 to 80 organizations statewide across four funding cycles.

“With recipients in communities across all corners of Oregon, these grants represent Oregon’s commitment to commemorating America’s 250th birthday in ways that reflect the unique character of our state,” said America 250 Oregon Commission Chair Kerry Tymchuk. “From highlighting Indigenous histories to honoring the sacrifice of Oregon’s veterans to instilling a love of history in our youth, these initiatives provide an opportunity for Oregonians to engage in our shared story. We are grateful to the Oregon State Legislature for providing the funds that made these grants possible.”

The Oregon 250 Grant Program was established to help organizations create inclusive, community-focused projects that highlight Oregon’s diverse histories, traditions, and cultures. These grant awards of up to $3,000 will support programs that align with the mission of America 250 Oregon and one or more of its seven guideposts.

The following organizations were awarded grants in the Oregon 250 Grant Program’s fourth and final funding cycle:

Camp Polk Pioneer Cemetery Preservation Committee, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support the preservation and recognition of veterans’ graves at Camp Polk Cemetery through restoration work and interpretive signage.

City of Amity, Yamhill County

Grant funds will support the recording and preservation of oral histories in Amity, capturing contemporary community voices for public archives and educational use.

City of Chiloquin, Klamath County

Grant funds will support a Fourth of July parade and community celebration in Chiloquin that honors local history while bringing residents together for a shared civic event.

City of Independence, Polk County

Grant funds will support a collaborative community quilt project in Independence and Monmouth that shares local stories and culminates in a public art installation and companion exhibit.

Coos Art Museum, Coos County

Grant funds will support a juried portrait exhibition featuring Oregon artists that explores identity, community, and shared futures through public programming and interpretation.

Dallas Area Visitors Center, Polk County

Grant funds will support Bigfootstock, a family-friendly cultural festival in Dallas that uses local folklore to celebrate regional history, identity, and community connections.

Frazier Farmstead Museum, Umatilla County

Grant funds will support the restoration of the historic McCoy Cabin, which was built in 1856 and is the oldest structure still standing in Umatilla County, through a hands-on community workshop teaching traditional preservation techniques.

Klamath County Chamber of Commerce, Klamath County

Grant funds will support the production and promotion of “Voices of Service,” an eight-episode podcast series highlighting the stories and experiences of veterans in Southern Oregon.

MidCoast Watersheds Council, Lincoln County

Grant funds will support three public estuary-focused events on the Oregon Coast that combine environmental education, local history, and artist-led creative activities.

No Pamphlet for That, Washington County

Grant funds will support inclusive, hands-on workshops that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to share their perspectives through creative expression.

North Lincoln County Historical Museum, Lincoln County

Grant funds will support the creation and traveling display of exhibit panels exploring the evolving relationship between people and the Oregon Coast.

The Open Arts Center, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support a youth-led poetry and aerial performance project in Central Oregon that celebrates place, identity, and diverse voices through a public outdoor showcase.

Oregon Agricultural Trust, Marion County

Grant funds will support the production and outreach of a short film series examining Oregon’s landmark land use program and its impact on communities and landscapes.

Oregon Art Center, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support a centennial exhibition at Oregon Art Center showcasing contemporary artists alongside archival materials to highlight the organization’s 100-year legacy.

Portland Art Museum, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support a film screening and panel discussion in Portland exploring Oregon landscapes and storytelling through the lens of the film Wild.

Portland Rose Festival Foundation, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support the Grand Floral Starlight Parade, a combined Rose Festival event bringing diverse cultural groups and performers together for a large-scale public celebration in downtown Portland that will include tributes to America’s 250th birthday.

Scalehouse Collaborative for the Arts, Deschutes County

Grant funds will support two public lectures in Central Oregon exploring how art reflects and shapes cultural narratives and public understanding of history.

Scappoose Public Library District, Columbia County

Grant funds will support a free summer outdoor movie series in Scappoose that brings families together through film, entertainment, and community engagement.

Siren Nation, Multnomah County

Grant funds will support artist stipends for the annual Billie Holiday Tribute, expanding performance opportunities for women artists and honoring the legacy of American jazz.

Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation District, Washington County

Grant funds will support a free Fourth of July community celebration at Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park featuring the newly completed Revolutionary War Memorial that honors veterans and fosters civic reflection through music, programming, and public gathering.

Westside Singers, Washington County

Grant funds will support live choral performances for seniors and the broader community, increasing access to American music across generations.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

For more information, contact PWB Communications Manager Felicia Heaton, 971-940-8933.

Today, the Portland Water Bureau discovered a leak on one of the supply conduits that delivers water from the Bull Run supply to Portland. As a result, the Portland Water Bureau is activating the Columbia South Shore Well Field to supplement the Bull Run supply with groundwater so the conduit can be safely taken off-line and repaired.

No action is needed by the public. The community's water supply remains safe to drink. 

Portland Public Utilities Director Dr. Ting Lu noted that the Columbia South Shore Well Field is performing exactly as intended: acting as a reliable backup to meet our community's drinking water needs.

“Our water system is designed for resilience,” said Director Lu. “Having two high-quality drinking water sources, the Bull Run Watershed and our groundwater system, ensures we can respond rapidly to maintain a safe, reliable water supply for our community.”

Operations Manager Kimberly Gupta expressed gratitude to the dedicated Water Bureau staff who respond around the clock to keep the water system working.

"Getting water to flow from a faucet seems simple, but it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water."

About the Columbia South Shore Well Field

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a robust secondary drinking water source that supplements our Bull Run supply. It can be used to augment water from the Bull Run during hot, dry summers and can be served when Bull Run water is unavailable for other reasons, such as a storm, flood, fire or unexpected impacts to infrastructure. Together, our two water sources improve the reliability of our water system and ensure that we can deliver excellent water every minute of every day.

Groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water quality standards. The well field produces high-quality drinking water from protected aquifers deep below the ground.

Depending on a household's location, it can take up to two weeks for the groundwater blend to move through the distribution system and reach all customers’ taps. The Water Bureau will operate the groundwater system until repairs on the supply conduit are complete. and will notify the public when the system returns to 100 percent Bull Run water.

Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to approximately 900,000 people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With nearly 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

On 05/05/2026, at around 1300 hours, members of the newly formed Clatsop County Street Crimes Unit observed two suspicious subjects at the end of 4^th Lane, in rural Astoria.  Uniformed deputies were dispatched to the area and an investigation was conducted.  Following the investigation, 36-year-old Casey L. Brown was taken into custody and charged with Possession of Weapons by Certain Felons and Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl.  Brown was transported to the Clatsop County Jail.

On 05/06/2025, at around 1140 hours, members of the Clatsop County Street Crimes Unit located 46-year-old Jason W. Ficken, in Seaside.  Ficken is wanted for an Oregon Parole Board warrant and numerous crimes, including felony domestic violence charges, in Pacific County, WA.

After a short foot pursuit, uniformed deputies of the Sheriff’s Office, Seaside Police, Gearhart Police, and Cannon Beach Police converged on the area.  Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Drako was deployed, along a drone from Cannon Beach Police, in a effort to locate Ficken.  Ficken was eventually located not far from where he entered the wood line and was taken into custody.  Ficken was transported and lodged at the Clatsop County Jail.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Honduran national unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy that lead to a fatal fentanyl overdose and for unlawfully possessing firearms as an illegal alien.

Cristhian Martinez, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and alien in possession of a firearm. Pursuant to the plea agreement,  Martinez also admitted as part of the conspiracy to distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of an adult victim.

According to court documents, in September 2023, members of the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) were called to investigate a fatal overdose in Clackamas County. While processing the scene, investigators discovered numerous counterfeit M30 Oxycodone pills believed to be manufactured with fentanyl, as well as fentanyl powder. Martinez was soon identified as the person who sold fentanyl to the deceased victim’s dealer.

On November 16, 2023, investigators located Martinez traveling north from California into Oregon, followed his vehicle, and conducted a traffic stop in Gladstone, Oregon. During a K-9 sweep of Martinez’s vehicle, investigators found multiple concealed packages containing more than one kilogram of compressed fentanyl:

Later the same day, investigators executed a search warrant on Martinez’s Gladstone apartment where they seized more fentanyl, a 20-ton shop press used to produce “bricks” of fentanyl powder, multiple firearms, ammunition, and other materials consistent with drug trafficking:

Martinez faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine, and five years of supervised release. The government will seek a sentence of 210 months’ imprisonment. Martinez will be sentenced on August 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford of the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the FBI, CCITF, and Westside Interagency Narcotics team (WIN). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members from the Canby Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, the FBI, and the Oregon National Guard Counterdrug Task Force. CCITF is supported by our community with the passage of the Public Safety Levy and grant funding from the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

WIN is a Washington County-based interagency drug interdiction task force that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and HSI.

This arrest is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

# # #

April calls for service and recap;

In April, Milwaukie Police officers participated in the Oregon Department of Transportation distracted driving traffic enforcement grant for distracted driving awareness month. As a part of this grant, bicycle Officers conducted several missions in the Milwaukie downtown core conducting stops for distracted driving and pedestrian safety. Motor Officers (motorcycle and vehicle) also conducted several overtime stints using grant funds in Milwaukie and with partnering agencies such as Wilsonville Police. In total, Officers made 234 traffic stops issuing 187 citations, 82 of which were for distracted driving. Officers also issued 101 warnings with 44 of those for distracted driving. While the grant targeted distracted driving habits prohibited by law, other violations were observed and several secondary offenses resulted in vehicle impounds. Image reel: https://youtube.com/shorts/D8hTLqH8vzE?si=pXmwycTjhrKJkva4

The Milwaukie Police department is now regularly transporting and working with community members in crisis who are willing to admit to the Clackamas County 23-hour stabilization center managed by Clarvida. The Stabilization center, located at 9200 SE McBrod, is for community members who are experiencing crises like panic attacks, hallucinations, or other mental health conditions. Providing a place for community members who need short-term support, coping skills and connections to resources to manage a crisis. Currently admission authority is limited to Law Enforcement or Law Enforcement behavioral health clinicians. For more information on the center visit: https://www.clackamas.us/h3s/stabilization-center

On April 9^th, Milwaukie Police issued a reminder bulletin to the community regarding our request for information on Kevin Goddard, facing charges of using a child in a display of sexually explicit conduct (5 counts) and encouraging child sexual abuse in the first degree (6 counts), who posted bail on May of 2023 and has not been located.  The text of that bulletin can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GmYnPUStT/. With information regarding Mr. Goddard’s whereabouts, please contact Milwaukie Police Detectives at 503-786-7471, the Milwaukie Police TIP line at 503-786-7425 or calling the US Marshals Office at 877-926-8332.

On April 10^th, Jason Treichler 42, of Portland called Milwaukie Police to report a suspicious vehicle near him. A responding Officer new Mr. Treichler to have an outstanding arrest warrant and arranged to meet him in Northwest Milwaukie. Upon arriving, Treichler began to walk away and was told he was under arrest. He continued walking away onto the Portland and Western Railroad tracks while Officers worked to contain him. Railroad traffic stopped and an MiPD sUAS (Drone) arrived to watch his movements. Officers were able to get to Treichler and take him into custody. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on Criminal Trespass, Escape 3, PCS Methamphetamine, and his outstanding warrant. Milwaukie Police would like to remind the community that entering Railroad property (walking on or across tracks) at areas which are not designated for such activity is Criminal Trespassing per Oregon State Statutes.

On April 16^th Milwaukie Police Detectives organized an on shift human trafficking interdiction. Four people were cited and released for promoting prostitution. One suspect fled the meeting point on foot and into the Hector Campbell neighborhood entering residential yards and construction sites. Officers quickly located the suspect, with the aid of an uncrewed aircraft (drone), hiding in a yard and took them into custody without incident. View the video here: https://youtu.be/dYf_-pPRFW8?si=82K5vZrNcvmjuAj7

On April 28^th, Milwaukie Police responded to Milwaukie High School regarding a phone threat made to the principal. The general threat made no specific targets other than the school and a specific time the actions would occur. Milwaukie Police was able to swiftly determine the source of the information was not localized and threats of uncanny similarity had had been made to multiple other metro area schools via the same methods in the same timeframe. This information was collected and forwarded to the FBI domestic terrorism task force for review. Police maintained a presence in the area and students completed their school day.

Calls for Service : 2258

Traffic stops: 1117

Welfare checks : 86 - total number is initially higher. Officers arrive on a welfare check and the call type is changed to the appropriate disposition based on the situation.

Stabilization Center BHU Referrals – 4

Stabilization Center LEO Referrals - 4

BHU unique Contacts (Glen/Trista) - TOTAL - 123

Police Report BHU Follow UP - 28 encounters

BHU= behavioral health unit

Original Release: https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/business_detail_T13_R318.php

April Interagency Missions; CCSO Retail theft, Clackamas County MDT Human Trafficking sting, Wilsonville Traffic Safety mission.

Incident: Disorderly Conduct Arrest

Location: Newport High School (322 NE Eads Street)

Date/Time: May 6^th, 2026 @ 2:15PM

Details: On May 6^th, 2026, at approximately 1415 HOURS, Newport Police Officers were dispatched to area of the Newport High School on the report a school aged male carrying a rifle. Officers from the Newport Police Department and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area and began searching for the subject. Officers worked with Newport High School Administration and Lincoln County School District personnel to lock down the area schools until the area could be made safe.

A suspect was identified and Newport Police contacted the suspect who was a 15-year-old student at the high school. The rifle was determined to be an airsoft AR style replica gun and officers on scene quickly determined there was no threat to school or public safety. The lockdown was lifted and the schools resumed their daily operations. The juvenile student was arrested at the scene for Disorderly Conduct 1 and released to a parent.

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

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

Information Released By: Sgt. Bales, 541-574-3348

# # # # #

Salem, Ore – The State Library Board will hold a virtual executive session from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026. This executive session is pursuant to ORS 192.660 (i) to review and evaluate the job performance of the State Librarian. The agenda is on the next page.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian at 503-378-4367 or nelisen@slo.oregon.gov">wendy.cornelisen@slo.oregon.gov.

State Library Executive Session

May 15, 2026

Online

Agenda

11:30 a.m.       Executive Session                              Avila

12:00 p.m.      Adjournment                                      Deitering

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

Salem, Ore – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.  This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Members of the public who wish to submit a written public comment may do so via the submission form linked here. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, May 14 at noon.

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

State Library Board Meeting

May 15, 2026

Virtual

Agenda

9:00 a.m.         Approval of the Minutes – January 16, 2026 Meeting                      Deitering

9:05 a.m.         Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Hearing                                     Deitering

9:10 a.m.         Public Comment                                                                               Deitering

9:20 a.m.         Report of the Board Chair and Members                                           Deitering

9:40 a.m.         Report of the State Librarian                                                             Cornelisen

9:50 a.m.         Budget Report                                                                                    Cornelisen

10:00 a.m.       Quarterly Statistics Report                                                                 Cornelisen

10:10 a.m.       Quarterly Strategic Plan Report                                                         Cornelisen

10:20 a.m.       Board Nominating Committee                                                           Deitering

10:30 a.m.       Break                                                                                                  

10:45 a.m.       Talking Books Library Donation Budget                                             Robinson

10:50 a.m.       LSTA 2026 Budget                                                                              Nielsen

10:55 a.m.       Public Library Minimum Conditions Report                                      Nielsen

11:10 a.m.       Keizer Community Library official recognition                                  Nielsen

11:20 a.m.       Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Adoption                                  Deitering

11:25 a.m.       Adjournment                                                                                      Deitering

Any person may address the Board on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Board does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any question or issue raised to the State Librarian.

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

At 1244 pm on May 6, 2026, a structure fire was reported on NW Florida Avenue.  Callers reported smoke and flames visible at the back of the residence, one of the original mill houses built in 1925.  Fire crews quickly knocked down the fire, but extensive overhaul operations were needed due to it being an older home with fire involvement in the attic area.  The home is not habitable, and Red Cross is providing assistance for two adults and two dogs.  

Upon investigation, it was found that the fire originated on the exterior of the house, and extended up the wood siding to the eaves and into the attic space.  The cause of the fire is improper disposal of oily rags from a recent project into the household trash.  

Oil based paints, stains, and varnishes are often used for home improvement projects, but rags, cloths, and brushes can easily start a fire if not handled and disposed of properly.  Never leave rags in a pile or bucket, lay them out flat outdoors in a space away from structures and combustibles.  Once rags are completely dry, place them in a metal can with a water and detergent solution and ensure the lid is sealed tightly.  They can be disposed of at Knott Landfill at their Hazardous Waste Disposal area, which is open every Friday and Saturday.  For more information on household safety, please visit our website at https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/community-resources-programs/#resources.

BLM prepares to open campgrounds for 2026 recreation season

Know Before You Go and check local fire restrictions to stay safe and informed

PORTLAND, Ore. – As spring temperatures rise, the Bureau of Land Management is excited to welcome visitors to public lands across Oregon and Washington for the 2026 recreation season. While many sites are moving to full-service operations, the BLM urges people to plan ahead, practice "Know Before You Go" safety and strictly adhere to upcoming seasonal fire restrictions.

“Each year we look forward to welcoming visitors back,” said Jim Regan-Vienop, Klamath Falls Acting Field Manager. “Public lands offer everyone a chance to unwind, explore, and appreciate the landscapes we all share.”

BLM recreation areas offer a broad selection of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle recreation and boating across a wide variety of landscapes.

Most seasonal campgrounds across Oregon and Washington open by mid-May, though specific dates vary based on local conditions and elevation. The BLM encourages all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve these shared spaces for future generations.

Safe recreation begins with thorough planning; always share your itinerary with someone at home and be prepared to "Pack It In, Pack It Out" if facilities have limited trash service early in the season. For those drawn to the region's rivers, water safety is paramount, always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and check local water conditions before launching.

Public safety depends on responsible fire practices. Before heading out, visitors are urged to verify if campfires are permitted at their specific destination, as high-danger periods often restrict fires to designated steel rings in improved campgrounds only or restrict open flames completely. The BLM reminds everyone to never leave a fire unattended and to use the "Drown, Stir, and Feel" method to ensure coals are cold to the touch before departing.

For the most up-to-date information on specific site availability and local fire danger levels, please visit the BLM Oregon/Washington webpage or contact your local District Office.

-BLM-

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

SW Polk Fire District Joins Nationwide Recognition on May 6, 2026

Dallas, OR — On May 6, 2026, special districts across the country will celebrate the inaugural National Special Districts Day, recognizing the vital services provided by thousands of independent local governments that communities rely on every day.

Established by the National Special Districts Association, National Special Districts Day highlights the role special districts play in delivering essential services such as fire protection, emergency medical response, water systems, libraries, parks, and public safety infrastructure.

Special districts are local governments created to perform a single or limited set of services efficiently and locally. In Oregon, fire districts and other special districts serve millions of residents, often covering large rural areas where city services are not available.

The importance of these services became especially clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. While state, tribal, county, and city governments received significant federal and state relief funding to assist with pandemic response and recovery, many Oregon special districts were largely excluded from those direct funding streams. As a result, districts continued providing uninterrupted emergency response, community protection, and operational readiness while absorbing pandemic-related expenses within their existing budgets.

Despite increased costs for protective equipment, staffing challenges, training adjustments, and operational changes, special districts maintained essential services without interruption.

“Special districts are often the most local form of government people may not realize exists,” said Fire Chief Fred Hertel. “Our firefighters, paramedics, and staff continued serving our community every day of the pandemic, even when financial assistance was limited. National Special Districts Day gives us an opportunity to recognize that commitment and educate the public about how these services are delivered.”

National Special Districts Day also serves to raise awareness among residents and policymakers about the governance, accountability, and funding structures that allow special districts to remain responsive to local needs.

SW Polk Fire District encourages community members to learn more about special districts and the essential role they play in protecting public safety and quality of life.

About SW Polk Fire District

SW Polk Fire District was formed under Oregon law in 1947 to provide more adequate fire protection for rural residents, their homes, and agricultural properties, while also reducing insurance premiums for properties within district boundaries. Over time, the District’s response model has evolved from primarily fire suppression to a service increasingly focused on emergency medical and rescue calls, reflecting changing community needs and steadily increasing call volume.

Today, SW Polk Fire District provides fire and emergency medical response services to the rural communities of Bridgeport, Dallas, Falls City, Oak Grove, Perrydale, Rickreall, and Salt Creek from three strategically located fire stations. The District operates as a combination agency staffed by both career and volunteer personnel. Career staff provide 24/7 coverage at two stations, while volunteers respond from all three locations.

The District has recently expanded emergency medical services by adding ambulance transport capabilities while continuing to support neighboring agencies through mutual aid partnerships.

Located on the west side of the Willamette Valley, approximately 40 minutes from the Pacific Coast and 60 minutes from the Cascade foothills, SW Polk Fire District protects a diverse landscape of farmland, forestland, and vineyards. The District serves approximately 8,100 residents across 142 square miles.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED

The second quarterly meeting of 2026 for the Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will be held virtually and in person on Wednesday, June 3, at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, located at 1792 Marine Drive in Astoria. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a town hall meeting at 11:30 a.m., which is open to the public.

Established in 1945, the Advisory Committee holds a distinct and fundamental role in advising the director and staff of ODVA. The nine members of the committee are military veterans from all corners of the state, appointed by the governor to serve and act as advocates for veteran issues and veteran concerns across Oregon.

Following every quarterly business meeting, the committee holds a town hall inviting the public to raise questions or concerns about broad veteran issues or to share information with the committee and agency director.

Members of the community are also invited to submit written public comments to the committee by emailing odva_vaac@odva.oregon.gov. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the first Wednesday of March, June, September and December.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Please register at https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d105957f-f8f5-4880-905c-0b2c9d223eb0@aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf to attend the business or town hall portion of this meeting.

Attendees will be allowed to participate during the town hall portion only and will be invited to turn on their camera and unmute mics during a recorded meeting that will be posted online at a later date.

More information about the Advisory Committee and meeting materials can be found online at www.oregon.gov/odva/Connect/Pages/Advisory-Committee.aspx.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services or locate a local county or Tribal veteran services office online at oregon.gov/odva.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty

Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation

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

JOSEPH E. WESTON DONATES REMAINING REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS TO HIS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

Portland philanthropist’s gift brings value of endowment to more than $1 billion

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland philanthropist and businessman Joseph E. Weston has donated the remainder of his commercial real estate holdings to the OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation, a supporting organization of Oregon Community Foundation. The gift brings the value of the endowment to more than $1 billion. This is the largest single donation in Oregon Community Foundation’s 53-year history.

Weston grew up in Southeast Portland without much money, but with a strong work ethic and a close-knit family. As a teenager, he worked as a soda jerk at a drugstore, where a pharmacist who owned apartments first showed him the financial power of real estate. By the time he was 18, Weston had purchased his first two duplexes. He still owns them today.

As Weston’s business grew, so did his generosity. Since 1991, Weston and the OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation have awarded more than $250 million in grants and scholarships. The donation of his remaining properties will ensure Weston’s grantmaking will endure in perpetuity.

“Joe has earned his place in history as one of Oregon’s most generous philanthropists,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “This donation is a triumph for Joe and his legacy. We are proud to be part of his enormous impact on our state.”

The OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation is Oregon Community Foundation’s largest supporting organization. Last year, it distributed more than $27 million to fulfill its mission to improve the human condition by serving vulnerable populations, funding projects that assist children, the working poor, senior citizens, people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness.

“I grew up poor. I know what it was like to be excluded because our family didn’t have resources,” Weston has said. “I’ve also been very fortunate in my profession, and that is why the goal of the Foundation is to provide funding to support nonprofits who are helping those in need. Working with OCF has allowed me to better realize that goal now and into the future.”

Over the course of his career, Weston built and acquired thousands of apartments and hundreds of commercial real estate projects across Oregon. He played an instrumental role in the development of Portland’s Pearl District.

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

###

Bend Fire & Rescue recognizes May as National Wildfire Awareness Month. We encourage the community to get your home and family wildfire ready ahead of an incident that threatens our community.

Wildfires are a threat to our region every year. With local drought declarations and a very hot and dry forecast for the year - we are asking our community to take part in the collective effort of preparing Bend for wildfire.

“Strengthening our community’s wildfire resilience is a shared effort, and every action makes a difference,” said Melissa Steele. “At Bend Fire, we are training and preparing our responders, collaborating with regional partners, participating in community education and outreach, and reviewing defensible space standards around our own facilities. When these efforts are matched by steps residents take on their own properties, together we can meaningfully reduce wildfire risk across our community.”

Being wildfire ready begins at home. And it starts with you.

Wildfires can cause destruction very quickly, especially when dry and dead plants and other combustible materials can help the fire progress.

Creating defensible space by clearing things that can catch fire from the area within the first five feet of your home is one small and impactful step you can take to help protect not just your home, but the whole neighborhood.

Learn what simple actions you can take to create defensible space around your home at bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Central Oregon Fire Prevention Co-op Preparedness Fair

Join Bend Fire & Rescue and other wildfire partners from across the region on Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wille Hall at Central Oregon Community College (2600 NW College Way, Bend) for a Wildfire Preparedness Fair.

Learn how to prepare your family and home for wildfire through presentations, hands-on activities, info booths and a ton of fun giveaways. Local and regional fire officials will be available to answer any questions about wildfire preparedness that you might have.

Learn about other regional fairs put on by the Co-op at centraloregonfire.org/prevent-wildfires.

Follow Bend Fire & Rescue on Facebook and Instagram as we post helpful wildfire readiness tips throughout the month. Thank you for helping make Bend wildfire ready.

Yesterday, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at approximately 5:43 p.m., Woodburn Police officers responded to a two‑vehicle fatal crash involving a motorcycle at the intersection of Butteville Rd NE and Lebrun Rd NE.

The initial investigation indicates that a Dodge pickup driven by Caleb Doll (35) was traveling east on Lebrun Rd NE and turning left onto Butteville Rd NE. At the same time, Cyrus Pino (35) of Woodburn was traveling southbound on Butteville Rd NE on a Kawasaki motorcycle and collided with the pickup. 

The driver of the pickup remained on scene and cooperated with investigators. At this time, preliminary information does not suggest the crash was criminal in nature.

The motorcyclist, Cyrus Pino, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the pickup was not injured. The roadway was closed for approximately four hours during the investigation.

Assisting agencies included the Woodburn Fire Department, Woodburn Ambulance, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team, the Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Woodburn Public Works.

(SPRINGFIELD, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement after PeaceHealth announced plans to stop attempting to outsource emergency room care to out-of-state group ApolloMD and to renew its contract with local doctors at Eugene Emergency Physicians.

"Today’s announcement is a historic victory for all Oregonians.

PeaceHealth’s decision to reverse course is not an act of leadership, it is a retreat. Health executives were forced to back down thanks to lawsuits, pressure from elected leaders, and an unprecedented show of solidarity from thousands of nurses, doctors, caregivers, and community members who stood together to hold PeaceHealth accountable and stop out-of-state corporations from controlling our care

The message is unmistakable. Oregonians’ health is not for sale. Hospitals must put patients ahead of profits and local collaboration over corporate control.

PeaceHealth must follow the law and other health systems should take note. Oregon banned the corporate practice of medicine for a reason. Oregonians and their providers are in charge of their personal healthcare decisions. We will not allow our communities’ care to be undermined, outsourced, or controlled by corporate executives.

While we celebrate this victory, we recognize that damage has been done. Our community's trust in PeaceHealth is broken. Regaining that trust will require increased transparency, partnership, and a stronger commitment to our communities from PeaceHealth.

Frontline nurses, doctors, and local leaders are ready to sit down with PeaceHealth executives to build a path forward that restores faith in our community’s healthcare system and put patients ahead of profits."

Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                 Date: May 6, 2026

Media Contacts:                                                                                                                                          
PGE: pgecommunications@pgn.com | 503.464.2067

Pacific Power: rez@pacificorp.com">simon.gutierrez@pacificorp.com | 503.813.6018

Idaho Power: mediateam@idahopower.com | 1.800.458.1443

Oregon Utilities Promote Wildfire Awareness: Get Ready for Fire Season by Preparing Now and Staying Informed

PGE, Pacific Power, Idaho Power and the PUC share tips and guidance as fire season approaches

Portland, Ore. – In recognition of National Wildfire Awareness Month, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power invest year-round to prevent wildfire and deliver safe, reliable power to the homes and communities that depend on it. They partner with tribes and federal, state and local agencies to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“We’ve had an unusually dry winter across much of Oregon, and that means wildfire season may arrive earlier and with greater intensity,” said Commissioner Chair Letha Tawney. “Even as Oregon electric utilities invest billions to reduce wildfire risk, customers need to be ready for potential outages when fire danger is high. The changing risk of extreme wildfires touches every Oregon community and requires all of us to take steps now to reduce the chance of catastrophe.”

Resources to help Oregonians prepare for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, including guidance on staying informed, evacuation planning and creating defensible space to help prevent wildfire.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power also share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.

Have a plan

• Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
• Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
• Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
• Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
• Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.

Make an outage kit

Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.

• Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.

• Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
• Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.

Stay informed

Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Information, resources and checklists

• PGE customers can visit portlandgeneral.com/wildfiresafety for information about how PGE works to protect people, property and public spaces.
• Pacific Power customers can visit pacificpower.net/wildfiresafety for resources and information including an outage preparation checklist for customers, an interactive map outlining public safety power shutoff areas.  
• Idaho Power customers can visit idahopower.com/wildfire to learn more about summer outage preparedness and what Idaho Power is doing to protect the grid from wildfires.   

-XXX-

About Portland General Electric Company
Portland General Electric is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 960,000 customers serving an area of approximately 2 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering economies, delivering safe, affordable and reliable electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE continues to make progress towards emissions reduction targets, and customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE is ranked a top ten utility in the 2025 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index. In 2025, PGE employees and retirees volunteered over 18,300 hours to more than 400 nonprofits organizations. Through the PGE Foundation, along with corporate contributions and the employee matching gift program, more than $5 million was directed to charitable organizations supporting economic growth and community resilience across our service area. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

About Idaho Power

Idaho Power, headquartered in vibrant and fast-growing Boise, Idaho, has been a locally operated energy company since 1916. Today, it serves a 24,000-square-mile area in Idaho and Oregon. The company has a long history of safely providing reliable, affordable, clean energy. With 17 low-cost hydroelectric projects at the core of its diverse energy mix, Idaho Power’s residential, business, and agricultural customers pay among the nation’s lowest prices for electricity. Its 2,100 employees proudly serve more than 660,000 customers with a culture of safety first, integrity always and respect for all.

About the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.

EUGENE, Ore.—A Eugene, Oregon, man made his first appearance in federal court today after allegedly destroying federal property while attempting to breach the Eugene federal building.  

Soren Emery Polzin, 18, has been charged by criminal complaint with depredation of federal property.

“The harm in this case goes beyond the thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to the federal building on January 30, 2026,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Federal employees were trapped inside, terrified of what would happen if the building were fully breached. This was a riot, not a lawful protest.”

“This arrest marks a huge step forward in our investigation of the damage to the Eugene federal building on January 30, 2026,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Violence and destruction of property jeopardize the rights and safety of all citizens. The FBI will continue to pursue individuals who exploit a situation to pursue violent, extremist agendas—anarchists and other agitators who set out to sow discord and upheaval.”

According to court documents, on the evening of January 30, 2026, a group of individuals, including Polzin, damaged the exterior windows and doors and attempted to gain access to the Eugene federal building while federal civilian employees were inside. Polzin repeatedly banged on and kicked the lobby window, eventually shattering the window with his lower body.

Polzin made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Protective Service are investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

Five schools will receive cash prizes for special school projects in the 17^th annual OnPoint Prize campaign awards

PORTLAND, Ore. — Five local schools have won the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Community Builder awards. Each school will receive a cash prize for a special project that positively impacts its school and community.

OnPoint also named the eight finalists for its Educator of the Year awards. Each educator is in the running to have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for their school. The four winners in each category (K-5, 6-8, 9-12, and Gold Star) will be announced on May 20, 2026. The remaining four runners-up in each category will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

“Across our region, schools and educators are doing incredible work to support students and strengthen their communities,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We are inspired by the ways they create welcoming environments, support students as individuals and help them grow with confidence. We are proud to recognize these schools and educators who go above and beyond to shape the next generation.”

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $1 million in prizes to over 350 local educators and schools since 2010. The 2026 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving K-12 educators and schools.

Learn more about the 2026 Community Builder award winners and Educator of the Year finalists below:

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

Grand Prize Winner – $5,000 Community Builder Award

Cedar Ridge Middle School: Kiln for Kids (Oregon Trail School District, Sandy, Ore.)

Limited equipment has made it difficult for Cedar Ridge Middle School students to participate in the ceramics program, despite its growing popularity. Winning the $5,000 Community Builder Award allows the school to purchase a new kiln, giving students the opportunity to explore advanced techniques like glazing and sculptural work while building creativity, technical skills and confidence through hands-on learning.

$2,000 Community Builder Award Winners

• Carus Elementary: Community Garden Space (Canby School District, Oregon City, Ore.) Carus Elementary is developing a multi-phase community garden that will feature native plants, outdoor learning spaces and nature play features. The $2,000 award will enable students to learn how to design a garden and gain hands-on experience creating a space that connects them to nature and the community.  
• Mapleton School District: Community Makerspace Initiative (Mapleton, Ore.) Mapleton School District is transforming a former middle school into a community center featuring a makerspace, garden and shared resources. The makerspace will serve as a hub for hands-on learning, creativity and entrepreneurship for both students and community members. The $2,000 award will support initial development, helping create a space where students can explore new skills and contribute to projects that strengthen their rural community.
• Rex Putnam High School: Indoor Percussion Drum Replacement (North Clackamas School District, Milwaukie, Ore.) Rex Putnam seeks to replace outdated marching band drums that are more than 30 years old and no longer functional. The $2,000 award will help provide new instruments, giving students equitable access to quality equipment and supporting student growth, program sustainability and stronger community engagement through performances.
• Woodland High School: Postsecondary Exploration Field Trips (Woodland Public Schools, Woodland, Wash.) Woodland High School plans to take students on visits to trade schools, community colleges and universities to explore postsecondary options. These experiences build awareness, confidence and interest in continuing education, especially for first-generation students. The $2,000 award will help remove financial barriers and provide guided exposure so students can better understand their options and make informed decisions about their futures.

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

OnPoint also named its eight finalists for its 2026 Educators of the Year awards today. Winners will have their mortgage or rent paid for one full year and receive $2,500 for each of their schools. The remaining four finalists will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Finalists

• Ashley Reich – 4th grade, Bertha Holt Elementary, Eugene School District 4J
• Sam Wishart – 1st grade, City View Charter School, Hillsboro School District

6-8 Finalists

• Mikael Benson – 6-8th grade Math and Gardening, Harrison Park Middle School, Portland Public Schools
• Kristine Napper – 6-8th grade Social Studies, Whitford Middle School, Beaverton School District

9-12 Finalists

• Stephanie Fitzgerald – 9-12th grade Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Colton High School, Colton School District
• Heidi Friesen – 9-12th grade Chemistry and Physics, Bend Senior High, Bend-LaPine School District

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

• Kali Dalton – Counselor, Coweeman Middle School, Kelso School District
• Yaneira Romero – Social Worker, James John Elementary, Portland Public Schools

Click here to learn more about OnPoint's finalists for the 2026 Educator of the Year awards. Winners and runners-up will be announced on May 20, and the announcement will be broadcast live on KGW.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

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

# # #

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 645,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

VIDEO & PHOTO: Ribbon cutting and speeches.

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College’s newest facility has earned a “clean bill of health,” and is now serving the region’s healthcare workforce needs.

On Tuesday, May 5, Portland Community College celebrated the completion of the college’s largest-ever renovation and officially introduced the newly renovated Health Technology Building to the public. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours for local leadership, members of the Tigard Chamber of Commerce, community partners and college employees.

Approximately 100 guests attended the celebration at PCC’s Sylvania Campus in Southwest Portland, where President Dr. Adrien Bennings joined college leaders to mark the completion of the state-of-the-art renovation. The facility, which opened to students and the public for spring term, will primarily support healthcare education and training.

“This building is much more than a renovation,” said Bennings. “It is an investment in our students, our healthcare workforce and the future of our region. These updated spaces will give students hands-on training for in-demand careers while helping meet a critical need for qualified healthcare professionals across our region.”

The Health Technology renovation began in 2018 and was funded through PCC’s 2017 and 2022 voter-approved bond measures. The west-side renovation modernized 66,000 square feet, including 9,500 square feet of new instructional space, at a total project cost of $37 million. The investment significantly upgrades the college’s healthcare and emergency professions programs and expands PCC’s ability to deliver hands-on, career-focused instruction in modern learning environments.

The HT West project followed phase one of the building renovation on the east side, completed in 2023. That earlier phase renovated nearly 100,000 square feet at a cost of $78 million and was funded through the 2017 bond measure. Together, the two phases represent an investment in a cornerstone career-technical education facility that had not received a full upgrade since the 1960s.

"The expansion and reopening of the PCC Health Technology Building marks a significant investment in training the region’s future healthcare workforce with modern, hands-on learning spaces,” said Tigard Chamber Chief Executive Officer Megan De Salvo. “This upgraded facility strengthens Portland Community College’s ability to meet growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals across the region. The Tigard Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate this reopening as it is a powerful investment in our region’s local workforce pipeline and our future as the region’s healthcare hub." 

The renovated building includes updated instructional and support spaces for important programs -- Nursing, Medical Imaging and Radiography, Physical Education, Exercise Science, as well as additional collaboration areas throughout the facility. Designed with student belonging and community in mind, the building also features an all-user locker room with fully private changing, shower and restroom facilities. In addition, there are refreshed student commons and new fitness areas that support both academic programs and community education.

There is also dedicated instructional space for academic non-credit healthcare programs, helping ensure a comprehensive and modern training environment for both entry-level and continuing education students. By expanding capacity and access across key disciplines, the project better aligns PCC’s programs with regional workforce needs.

That need is significant. Oregon employers continue to report more open positions than available workers to fill them, and the shortage is especially acute in healthcare. 

“By modernizing our instructional spaces and expanding access across multiple healthcare disciplines, PCC is ensuring that our programs are aligned with the needs of our students and regional employer partners,” said Janeen Hull, dean for the Healthcare & Emergency Professions Pathway. “We are equipping the next generation of healthcare, emergency and fitness professionals with the skills to lead and the hands-on experience to succeed from day one.”

Program improvements include the expansion of nursing assistant labs to Sylvania, multiple medical assisting cohorts across three campus locations, and a specialized VO2 max testing lab for Exercise Science Program students. These enhancements strengthen preparation for careers in healthcare, rehabilitation and fitness while broadening access to training opportunities across the district.

The project also reflects PCC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and inclusive design. The renovation is designed to meet LEED Gold standards and is pursuing LEED NC v4.1 certification, and incorporates energy modeling, sustainability workshops and incentives through Energy Trust of Oregon. The design process included extensive stakeholder outreach and engagement, including workshops that applied a critical race spatial lens.

“This renovation represents PCC’s commitment to creating learning environments that reflect the excellence, innovation and care our students will bring to the communities they serve,” Bennings said. “At PCC, we believe students deserve learning spaces that inspire confidence, belonging, and excellence, and this transformation helps make that possible.” 

The benefits of these investments extend well beyond campus. A 2026 economic impact study by Lightcast based on 2024 data found that PCC contributes $2.7 billion to the regional economy and supports 20,700 jobs. The same study found students gain approximately $4.10 in higher future earnings for every $1 invested in their education.

“We are deeply grateful to our voters and community for investing in facilities that expand opportunity and strengthen the region’s future,” she added.

For more information about the HT Building renovation, visit pcc.edu/bond/

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

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

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

The Oregon Department of Human Services Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP) and Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) in Eugene are moving to better serve clients.

The two programs will be moving from The McKenzie Center, 2885 Chad Drive, Eugene into two locations: 2101 West 11^th Avenue, Eugene and 101 30^th Street, Springfield. The move is expected to be complete by May 11, 2026. The Child Welfare program will remain at 2885 Chad Drive in Eugene.

“The two programs, SSP and OEP, are relocating to consolidate the programs into two locations in the Eugene Metro area and to have building spaces that are better suited to serving our community. We will have more staff available to see clients in person. We’re creating something better for the people we serve,” Elizabeth Lindbloom, Self-Sufficiency Program Manager, and Zayra Longoria, Oregon Eligibility Partnership Program Manager, said.

About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, childcare and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing and other resource needs. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

Learn more about ODHS: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/default.aspx?  utm_source=odhs&utm_medium=egov_redirect&utm_campaign=https%3a%2f%2fwww.oregon.gov%2fdhs.

Learn more about the Child Welfare Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/cw.aspx.

Learn more about the Oregon Eligibility Partnership: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/oep.aspx.

Learn more about the Self-Sufficiency Programs: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/ssp.aspx.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for May 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.

The next Telecommunications Policy Committee meeting is to be determined.

PGE, Pacific Power, Idaho Power and the PUC share tips and guidance as fire season approaches

Portland, Ore. – In recognition of National Wildfire Awareness Month, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power invest year-round to prevent wildfire and deliver safe, reliable power to the homes and communities that depend on it. They partner with tribes and federal, state and local agencies to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“We’ve had an unusually dry winter across much of Oregon, and that means wildfire season may arrive earlier and with greater intensity,” said Commissioner Chair Letha Tawney. “Even as Oregon electric utilities invest billions to reduce wildfire risk, customers need to be ready for potential outages when fire danger is high. The changing risk of extreme wildfires touches every Oregon community and requires all of us to take steps now to reduce the chance of catastrophe.”

Resources to help Oregonians prepare for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, including guidance on staying informed, evacuation planning and creating defensible space to help prevent wildfire.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power also share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.

Have a plan

• Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
• Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
• Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
• Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
• Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.

Make an outage kit

Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.

• Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.
• Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
• Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.

Stay informed

Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Information, resources and checklists

• PGE customers can visit portlandgeneral.com/wildfiresafety for information about how PGE works to protect people, property and public spaces.
• Pacific Power customers can visit pacificpower.net/wildfiresafety for resources and information including an outage preparation checklist for customers, an interactive map outlining public safety power shutoff areas.  
• Idaho Power customers can visit idahopower.com/wildfire to learn more about summer outage preparedness and what Idaho Power is doing to protect the grid from wildfires.   

About Portland General Electric Company
Portland General Electric is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 960,000 customers serving an area of approximately 2 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering economies, delivering safe, affordable and reliable electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE continues to make progress towards emissions reduction targets, and customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE is ranked a top ten utility in the 2025 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index. In 2025, PGE employees and retirees volunteered over 18,300 hours to more than 400 nonprofits organizations. Through the PGE Foundation, along with corporate contributions and the employee matching gift program, more than $5 million was directed to charitable organizations supporting economic growth and community resilience across our service area. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

About Idaho Power

Idaho Power, headquartered in vibrant and fast-growing Boise, Idaho, has been a locally operated energy company since 1916. Today, it serves a 24,000-square-mile area in Idaho and Oregon. The company has a long history of safely providing reliable, affordable, clean energy. With 17 low-cost hydroelectric projects at the core of its diverse energy mix, Idaho Power’s residential, business, and agricultural customers pay among the nation’s lowest prices for electricity. Its 2,100 employees proudly serve more than 660,000 customers with a culture of safety first, integrity always and respect for all.

About the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.

RELEASE DATE:               May  5, 2026
CASE NUMBER:               26-19826

Gresham, Ore. — Gresham Police located a 6-year-old child who had been missing for more than two hours.

A 6-year-old was reported missing in the 800 block of SE 5th St. at approximately 8:20 p.m. after his mother noticed he was no longer playing in the driveway.

Officers flooded the area and began checking the home, nearby schools and parks. As darkness fell and the child had still not been found, additional resources were called in to assist with the search.

Drone operators and the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Air Unit searched from above while officers continued checking parks and canvassing for surveillance cameras. Gresham Fire Department responded with water rescue equipment to search Johnson Creek between the nearby school and park. Additional officers and assisting deputies used loud equipment to call the child’s name while neighbors also helped search the area.

Shortly before 10:30 p.m., the missing child was spotted by a neighbor not far from his home. The neighbor alerted a nearby officer, who confirmed it was the missing child.

In total, 37 officers, four drones, one airplane and three K-9 teams assisted with the search, along with much of the surrounding neighborhood.

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank the community members who assisted in the search. Additionally, we appreciate the support of the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and Columbia County Sheriff's Office, which had additional resources responding when the child was found.

#30

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded Tuesday evening at 5:10 to a shed on fire in the 1400 block of West Side Hwy. The homeowner reported his shed was on fire in his backyard, which was close to his home. Fire crews arrived and attacked the fire with multiple hose lines, having the fire under control within 9 minutes of arriving, stopping the fire spread. Crews remained on scene and checked for hot spots and extension into the ceiling of the thirty-by-10-foot shed. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but is believed to be accidental. No injuries were reported.

Cowlitz County, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue and Cowlitz County Fire District 5 (Kalama) responded to a brush fire Monday (May 4th) afternoon at 4:43 in the 1000 block of Lincoln Rd in Kelso, WA. Initial reports were that a homeowner burning yard debris had gotten out of hand and is spreading to nearby brush. Fire crews arrived and reported multiple slash piles burning and a 10-foot by 300-foot fire spread into nearby brush and light fuels. Firefighters attacked the fire with multiple hose lines and had the fire contained just before 7 pm.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was also dispatched and assisted Cowlitz 2 firefighters with locating and extinguishing hot spots; DNR crews remained on scene for several hours, monitoring the scene for potential flare-ups. The cause of the fire was accidental; the homeowner did not have a burn permit. Officials from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue remind the public that following proper burn regulations, including securing a valid burn permit and using good judgment, will assist in reducing wildfire incidents as warmer weather and a predicted dry season approach. Also, to always stay informed on local and regional burn bans, which can be found at https://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/196/Emergency-Management and https://www.swcleanair.gov/ .

FATAL CRASH – ROAD CLOSURE

The Woodburn Police Department is currently investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash at Butteville Rd NE and Lebrun Rd NE.

Officers arrived on scene at 5:43 p.m.

Butteville Rd NE is closed between Parr Rd and Newberg Hwy during the investigation.

Woodburn Police are being assisted by the Marion County Crash Team.

Please avoid the area and use alternate routes.

On May 5, 2026, officers with the Newport Police Department served search warrants at Amazing Lotus Spa, located at 831 NE Avery Street in Newport, and at a residence in the 200 block of NE 8th Street.
 

The warrants were the result of an investigation that began in March 2026 after investigators learned the business was advertising on a well-known prostitution/adult escort website and alluding to commercial sex acts being offered at the spa.

During the investigation, officers conducted surveillance at the business and observed activity inconsistent with the normal business patterns of legitimate massage establishments. Based on the investigation, a search warrant was submitted and later authorized by the court.

During the execution of the search warrant at Amazing Lotus Spa, investigators located evidence indicating the business was providing massage services without the required massage therapist licensing.

At the NE 8th Street residence, investigators located large quantities of cash and additional evidence related to services allegedly being offered at the spa beyond unlicensed massage activity.

As a result of the investigation, Jia Hui, 63, and Bing Li, 67, both of Newport were arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on charges of:

• Prostitution
• Practice of Massage Without a Massage Therapist License

Newport Officers were assisted by the Oregon Department of Justice, Lincoln City Police and Tillamook Police Department.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Newport Police Department at 541-574-5807, or text a tip to 541-270-1856.

EUGENE, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Ryan Bruce Gaither Jr., 37, with assault on a federal employee involving physical contact and aggravated assault on a federal employee causing bodily injury.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 27, 2026, Gaither spit on a U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Special Response Team officer and bit a second officer.

Gaither made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on October 5, 2026.

If convicted, Gaither faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

Federal Protective Service is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator
sam.tenney@dpsst.oregon.gov

503-931-4069

Oregon honors fallen law enforcement officers at annual memorial ceremony

SALEM, Ore. — A ceremony held Tuesday, May 5 commemorated law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty in Oregon. The annual Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s fallen officers and those they left behind.

The event was held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, site of the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial.

The ceremony was attended by the families, loved ones and colleagues of fallen officers, elected officials, and public safety professionals from throughout the state. Paying tribute to Oregon’s fallen officers, keynote speaker Adam Palmer, assistant commissioner with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, reflected on their courage, selflessness, and enduring legacy, and spoke of the respect shared between Canadian and American officers who stand together in honoring those who gave their lives in service.

“These officers made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their sworn duty to serve and protect our communities. They provided safety to others in moments of fear, and they served with unwavering courage and dignity that defines the very best of us,” Assistant Commissioner Palmer said.

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

“This year, we are grateful that no new names were added to the Law Enforcement Memorial wall. We do not take that for granted,” said Phil Castle, director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). “Today, we honor those whose names are already here, and we hold fast to the hope that this wall will remain unchanged for many years to come.”

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

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

###

About DPSST

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

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

The Ambulance Service Review Committee (ASRC) intends to meet on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm via Zoom. The meeting will be streamed live on the Lincoln County website here: Agendas & Minutes | Lincoln County, OR (https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/129/Agendas-Minutes)

Any members of the public who have questions or would like to attend the meetings should email the Committee Recorder to request virtual meeting information at least 4 hours prior to the beginning of the meeting.

Committee Recorder

Susan Trachsel
Assistant Emergency Manager
achsel@co.lincoln.or.us">strachsel@co.lincoln.or.us
541-265-0610

About the Ambulance Service Review Committee

Overview

The Lincoln County Ambulance Service Review Committee (ASRC) meets quarterly; the committee members are appointed by the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners with representation from Fire Districts, Ambulance Service Providers, Hospitals, and the public (2 representatives). The committee packets and agenda are posted prior to the meeting and the meeting minutes, once approved, posted at this County website location

Meetings

• Second Wednesday of February, May, August, and November, 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Virtual Meetings streamed live (https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/129/Agendas-Minutes

UNION COUNTY, Ore. (5 May 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance to identify the person(s) responsible for the unlawful shooting of a mule deer doe in or around the city of Elgin, in Union County. 

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, Fish and Wildlife troopers began receiving calls regarding a mule deer doe with arrows lodged in its head and lower neck area. Over the next few days troopers responded to calls from the public regarding the injured deer and attempted to dispatch it but were unable to do so safely.

On Thursday, April 22, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel located the deer and were able to tranquilize the deer and remove the arrow from its neck. The arrow seen in its head earlier had fallen out on its own. ODFW biologists determined the deer was in good condition and were able to ear tag it, treat the wounds, and release it. The arrows are believed to be crossbow bolts fired from a crossbow. 

Anyone with information regarding the attempted unlawful take of this mule deer doe is asked to call the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP26-126854.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

GRESHAM, Ore.— With more than 700 runners and four incredible community beneficiaries in place, the eighth annual Gresham Lilac Run held on April 18 was poised to finish a winner.

The event, a collaboration between the City of Gresham and Unitus Community Credit Union, enjoyed a 50% jump in registrations from 2025. Spots in the 5K, 10K, and half marathon races sold out at record pace.

“The Lilac Run is definitely a crowd-pleaser,” said organizer and City events specialist Jake Ostrow. “It's held on a beautiful route primarily along Springwater Trail; which is a local favorite for runners and walkers but also an attraction that draws people from throughout the country for this event.”

Racers from Oregon and Washington, as well as locations as far away as Illinois, Louisiana, and Missouri, were greeted with sunny skies and beautiful weather on race day. Roughly two thirds of 2026 runners were new to the event, while the rest of the participants returned for one of the best regional runs of the year.

This year’s event raised more than $26,000, up $8,000 from 2025. Proceeds from the race went to four local community-focused organizations: Rockwood Market Hall, the Gresham Youth Advisory Council, Magic Wheelchair, and Shooting Star Adventures.

For more information on the Lilac Run or to bookmark the page ahead of next year’s race, head to GreshamOregon.gov/Lilac-Run.

#     #     #

About Gresham:   

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

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is inviting community members to review and comment on the county’s draft Emergency Operations Plan, now available for public input.

The Emergency Operations Plan, or EOP, is Clatsop County’s all-hazards framework for coordinating response and short-term recovery during emergencies or disasters. It guides how the county organizes resources, supports emergency responders, protects life, stabilizes incidents and helps restore essential services.

Community input can help:

• Improve clarity
• Identify potential gaps
• Reflect local needs and priorities
• Strengthen Clatsop County’s preparedness and resilience

“Plans are strongest when they reflect the people and communities they are designed to serve,” said Jennifer Bedford, Clatsop County Emergency Management Planning Coordinator. “We invite residents, businesses, partner agencies and community organizations to review the draft plan and share feedback.”

The draft EOP includes guidance on:

• Countywide emergency authorities and coordination
• Department roles and responsibilities
• Hazard-specific response considerations
• Emergency functions such as public information and warning, evacuations, debris management, donations management and public health response

Read the EOP and submit your comments or suggestions.

The draft Emergency Operations Plan will be available for public review Now to May 22, 2026.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is seeking applicants for one position on the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission. The three-year term will begin on July 1, 2026. The position will be appointed by the County Council.

The seven-member volunteer commission is responsible for:

• Reviewing nominations to the National Register of Historic Places
• Reviewing nominations and designating properties to the Clark County Heritage Register
• Conducting design review for changes to buildings and sites on the local register
• Reviewing and deciding applications for the Special Valuation Tax Incentive for historic properties
• Overseeing education and outreach.

The commission typically meets at 6 pm the first Wednesday of each month at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Meetings are currently conducted in a hybrid format via Webex and in person.

The county is looking for people who can bring:

• Interest, experience, or knowledge in history; historic preservation, rehabilitation or restoration; architecture or related disciplines such as planning, American studies or cultural anthropology, archaeology, or geography
• Ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group; and
• Outstanding strategic communication and public speaking skills and experience meeting with a wide range of individuals and organizations

All applicants must be available for an interview with a committee of current Historic Preservation Commissioners. A follow-up interview with the County Council may be required.

To apply, submit a letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager's Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

The application deadline is 5 pm Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

For more information about the commission and the Historic Preservation program, please visit www.clark.wa.gov/planning/historic.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power working toward rate stability for Oregon customers 

General rate case seeks stable rates in 2026, lower rates in first half of 2027 

Portland, Ore. (May 5, 2026) — Pacific Power has filed a general rate case with the Oregon Public Utility Commission with a plan that would keep rates stable in the near-term, deliver lower rates in early 2027 and delay a minimal residential rate increase until the third quarter of 2027.  

Under the proposal, residential customers would see stable bills in 2026, followed by decreases in the first half of 2027 and a minimal net rate increase in July 2027. If approved, interim rates would take effect June 5, 2026, and remain in place while regulators review the full general rate case. 

The company’s proposal addresses the rising costs of doing business and ensures critical investments in the grid, while keeping rates stable for customers. More information is available on the company’s Oregon rate proposal page. 

“Affordability is an ongoing concern for our customers,” said Rick Link, senior vice president of regulation and planning. “Our job is to deliver safe, reliable power and keep costs as low as possible, while making the necessary investments needed for long-term reliability. We’ve worked hard to manage what we can and provide predictability for our customers.” 

While reflecting Pacific Power’s commitment to affordability, the proposal also acknowledges several cost pressures affecting the delivery of safe and reliable electric service, including higher cost of materials needed to maintain and replace power lines, poles and other equipment, as well as rapidly rising insurance costs for wildfire risk. 

Participation in the Extended Day-Ahead Market showcases how Pacific Power is innovating to deliver value and help keep customer costs low. Since helping pioneer the Western Energy Imbalance Market, an energy market that provides access to the lowest-cost power available, the company has delivered more than $297 million in customer benefits to Oregon customers. Building on that proven track record, EDAM will further optimize how electricity is bought and sold on the open market, creating additional savings opportunities that will benefit customers. 

To assist vulnerable customers, the company offers the Oregon Low-Income Discount Program, which is helping over 70,000 of our most vulnerable customers across the state lower their power bills from 20% to 80%, depending on their income. More information is available at PacificPower.net/LID. Customers can also access a variety of bill support programs through local community action agencies, including the Oregon Energy Fund, Oregon Energy Assistance Program and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.   

Pacific Power also offers a variety of ways to budget for energy expenses, including time of use and equal pay billing options, and energy use tracking offered online and through the company’s mobile app. In partnership with Energy Trust of Oregon, Pacific Power customers can access information and rebates to help improve their energy efficiency and lower their bills. Customers can call 1-888-221-7070 to discuss options.   

###

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.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio revisits one of the most innovative series in radio history with its latest episode, “Quiet, Please,” premiering at 1 p.m. May 18.

This episode curates and reimagines two landmark broadcasts from the classic radio drama series “Quiet, Please:” “Nothing Behind the Door,” the program’s debut episode, and “The Thing on the Forble Board,” widely regarded as its most celebrated installment. Together, these stories showcase the series’ distinctive approach to storytelling—one that relies on quiet narration, psychological tension and the dramatic power of silence.

Originally written and directed by Wyllis Cooper and narrated by Ernest Chappell, “Quiet, Please” pushed the boundaries of traditional radio drama. Blending elements of suspense, horror, fantasy and the surreal, the series invited listeners into immersive worlds where events often defied logic and explanation. Rather than relying on overt sound effects or conventional plot structures, the program emphasized mood, character depth and the unsettling impact of the unknown.

“‘Quiet, Please’ demonstrates how radio can create deeply immersive worlds using minimal sound and maximum imagination,” said John F. Barber, producer of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “Through Cooper’s writing and Chappell’s intimate, stream-of-consciousness narration, these stories challenge traditional storytelling and show how silence itself can become a powerful dramatic force.”

“Nothing Behind the Door,” the pilot episode, establishes the tone and narrative style that would define the series, introducing listeners to a reality where the ordinary becomes quietly unsettling. In contrast, “The Thing on the Forble Board” tells the story of a mysterious and dangerous creature unearthed by a Texas drilling crew, recounted by a narrator whose role in the events gradually becomes clear.

Re-Imagined Radio’s new episode weaves these two productions into a cohesive listening experience, highlighting the creative risks and narrative innovations that have led “Quiet, Please” to be widely regarded as one of radio’s most original drama series.

Listeners are invited to tune in May 18 to experience how silence, suggestion and storytelling combine to create lasting emotional impact.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Created in 2013 by Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences.

New episodes premiere on the third Monday of each month. Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, and KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm, which also features Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA, offering additional sound-based storytelling between monthly episodes.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.

# # #

On Saturday, May 2, 2026, at about 12:20 a.m., a Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputy attempted to pull over a driver for speeding on Sunset Highway near Murray Blvd, when the driver turned off the vehicle's lights and eluded.

Deputies monitoring the call saw the driver continue at a high rate of speed Westbound on Sunset Highway, taking the Highway 6 exit towards the coast. The flight crew for Air 5 was at the Hillsboro Airport, monitoring the call, and took off to assist.

Air 5 found the vehicle, which turned around and headed back Eastbound on Highway 6 towards Sunset Highway, still at a high rate of speed with the lights off. Air 5 continued to monitor the vehicle and saw the driver lose control and crash near the on-ramp to Eastbound Sunset Highway at NW Mountaindale Road in Banks.

The driver ran from the vehicle and hid in the yard of a nearby home. Air 5 kept eyes on the driver while deputies and a K9 team were arriving to search. Deputy Nealeigh and K9 Blitz located the driver hiding underneath a truck parked in the driveway.

The driver, 25-year-old Abayomi Vidal-Avalos, of Cornelius, was taken into custody and transported to jail for attempting to elude, reckless driving, DUII, and probation violations.

If you have information about this incident and have not spoken to deputies, please contact the Sheriff's Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 and reference case number 50-26-6004. 

Note to the editors: Video of the incident is available on our Facebook page. 

Note to media: Robert Horton’s family has requested privacy and will not be available for interviews at this time.

PORTLAND, Ore. (5 May 2026) – More than 20 years after the fully skeletonized remains of a man were found in a wooded area of Southwest Portland, the remains have been positively identified as Robert Lee Horton, who would have been 47 years old at the time of his death.

On December 19, 2004, two people exploring a wooded area near Riverview Cemetery discovered Horton’s remains. They notified local law enforcement immediately and personnel from the Portland Police Bureau and a medicolegal death investigator from Multnomah County responded to lead the investigation.

Along with the human skeletal remains, a fabric lean-to, cooking pans, food items, and clothing were discovered. The clothing was retained as evidence and the skeletal remains were transferred to the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office for examination.

The findings of the autopsy and skeletal examination concluded the decedent was a white male adult between the ages of 45 and 55 years old at the time of death and estimated to be between 5’6” and 5’9” tall. However, the cause and manner of death remained undetermined.

In 2010, a DNA sample was sent to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification for Short Tandem Repeat (STR) DNA sequencing and entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and a profile was created in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). The State Medical Examiner’s Office regularly followed up on the case, and although DNA had been uploaded into CODIS, no genetic associations could be made. Missing persons profiles in databases like NamUs, the Violent Crime Apprehension Program (ViCAP), the Charley Project, and more were searched for new cases to match with the decedent. Unfortunately, there was no progress in the case.

In 2018, the medical examiner’s office was awarded a National Institute of Justice – Forensic DNA Laboratory Efficiency Improvement and Capacity Enhancement Program grant to apply advanced DNA testing techniques on unsolved, unidentified skeletal remains cases. The case was recognized as one that could potentially be resolved by DNA Phenotyping and Investigative Genetic Genealogy provided by OSP’s vendor lab, Parabon NanoLabs. An additional bone sample was submitted for DNA extraction, and a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) DNA profile was successfully produced and analyzed.

In January 2022, the first DNA Snapshot© Genetic Genealogy Report investigating distant familial connections was finalized. While matches were abundant, they were distant. To explore possible relationships among the highest‑ranking matches, family trees were created for each, and extensive research was conducted utilizing a variety of sources. Unfortunately, there was little progress in the case.

The Portland Police Bureau conducted additional follow-up and contacted distant relatives seeking clues about missing persons in their families as well as requesting DNA samples to help move the case along. However, the case again stalled.

In late 2025, the medical examiner’s Human Identification Program reached back out to Parabon NanoLabs to inquire whether there were any new leads, and the case was reopened. Incredibly, by early 2026, Robert Lee Horton, born in 1957, had been identified as a likely candidate who had been missing since 2004.

PPB then contacted remaining family members who reported that Robert had been living in Hawaii but moved to Portland in 2004. The family became concerned when they were unable to contact Robert, and he failed to retrieve mail and other items that were sent to him. The case detective obtained contact information for Robert’s living family members and obtained a family reference standard from his elderly mother.

In February 2026, the Human Identification Program sent the family reference standard to Parabon NanoLabs DNA extraction laboratory for testing. By April 2026, the Kinship Inference Report returned definitive conclusions. The results indicated a 100 percent probability of a parental relationship with the unidentified remains based on genetics. 

Robert’s family was notified immediately of the positive identification. Sadly, his mother passed away a short time later.

“While no amount of time can lessen the loss experienced by Robert Horton’s loved ones, we hope this identification brings a measure of closure and answers they have long deserved,” Portland Police Chief Bob Day said. “PPB is proud to have played a role in this case with our partners, and we remain committed to using every available tool to seek the truth and provide resolution for families impacted by tragedy.”

“This case highlights the exceptional interagency teamwork required to resolve cold cases of this nature. OSP is grateful for the cutting‑edge genetic genealogy analysis provided by Parabon NanoLabs, the seamless case work by the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the dedicated investigation by the Portland Police Bureau,” said State Forensic Anthropologist Hailey Collord-Stalder, Ph.D. “By collaborating closely with the State Medical Examiner’s Office and combining resources, the agencies were able to advance the case in ways none could have achieved alone.”

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

To view the Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 17, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. David J. Huckins, PSI No. 080024

   Denial of Private Security Investigator Renewal Application

   Presented by Michelle Morrison

4. Esther Broussard, PSI No. 071233

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

5. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-059-0070, 259-060-0500, and 259-061-0010

   Fee Increases and Rule Changes for the Private Security Provider Certification and Licensing Program

   Presented by Jennifer Howald

6. Informational Update on Adoption of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0125

   Adopting Rules for Private Professional Applicants with Prior Law Enforcement Experience (House Bill 2183)

   Presented by Jennifer Howald

7. Agency Update

8. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – August 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

Attendees encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to benefit Clark Neighbors Food Project

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall will present the 2026 State of the County address at a May 19 event at the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. in the sixth-floor hearing room. Doors open at 4:45 pm, and the program begins at 5:20 pm.

The event is free and open to the public. The event will air live on CVTV channel 23/323 and www.CVTV.org. Light refreshments and beverages will be available.

In the speech, Chair Marshall will provide an update on what’s happening in Clark County government. Topics will include an update on the Charter Review Commission progress, the Comprehensive Plan Update, the county’s budget and more.

Clark Neighbors Food Project will be at the event collecting donations of non-perishable food. Food donations will benefit several local food pantries and school family resource centers. The Project began in August 2017 and currently collects approximately 20,000 pounds of food every two months. Learn more about the Project at https://www.clarkfoodproject.org/.

Representatives from the county’s Charter Review Commission will have a table at the event to provide information and answer questions. The county’s Neighborhood Program Coordinator also will be on hand to provide information and let residents know how they can get involved with their local neighborhood associations.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Two local methamphetamine distributors have been charged with trafficking narcotics at or near affordable housing complexes in Portland, Oregon.

William Andrew Fleming-Davis, 39, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Edward Mortenson, 55, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on April 25, 2026, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officers received a tip from a community member that an unknown male was dealing drugs in Southeast Portland near the Lents neighborhood. Officers stopped Fleming-Davis, who matched the description of the drug dealer, and found methamphetamine, almost $600, multiple knives, brass knuckles, a firearm, and drug paraphernalia:

In April 2026, Portland Police officers with the Central Precinct Neighborhood Response Team/Bike Squad received a tip of narcotics trafficking at Musolf Manor, an affordable housing complex. Mortenson was seen on video dropping methamphetamine. On April 29, 2026, officers took Mortenson into custody after he was caught trafficking narcotics and seized six baggies containing methamphetamine and over $300. Officers executed a search warrant on Mortenson’s apartment and seized over 370 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and bulk money from selling narcotics:

Following the arrest of the defendants, officers contacted the FBI to pursue the cases federally.

Mortenson made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

Fleming-Davis is currently being held on prior state charges.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI and Portland Police Bureau are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (4 May 2026) – On Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 1:54 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash involving two motorcycles on Highway 126 near milepost 2.7 in Lane County.  

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Volvo 240, operated by Lorna Marie Trujillo (50) of Florence, slowed to a stop in the eastbound lane of Highway 126 to make a left turn into a mobile home park near Rose Hill Road when it was rear-ended by a green Harley Davidson Heritage Softail motorcycle, operated by Brandon Taylor Oetken (38) of Florence, which sent the rider to the ground. A white Harley Davidson Ultra Classic motorcycle, operated by John Carlos Moreno (65) of Florence, then struck the rear of the green motorcycle causing the operator to lose control and lay the motorcycle on its side. The white Harley Davidson slid approximately 150 feet before coming to a stop. Good Samaritans stopped to render aid to the two down riders.

The operator of the green Harley Davidson (Oetken) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the white Harley Davidson (Moreno) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Volvo (Trujillo) was transported to an area hospital as a precaution with reported complaints of pain.  

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

OSP was assisted by Western Lane Fire and Rescue, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Florence Police Department, the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will host Oregon’s annual Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony in person at 11 a.m., Monday, May 25 in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

This event honors Oregon’s fallen service members from all eras of service and will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.”

The ceremony will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park, located directly across the street from the front entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building, 900 Court Street NE in Salem. This event is being temporarily relocated from its traditional annual location at the World War II Memorial due to adjacent construction taking place on the Capitol grounds.

The event is open to the public, and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be available. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet.

Statewide Memorial Day Events

In addition to the Capitol ceremony, ODVA maintains a Statewide Memorial Day Events Calendar highlighting local observances and community celebrations honoring Oregon’s fallen heroes.

To view events near you, visit oregondva.com/event-calendar.

Organizations and communities hosting Memorial Day events are encouraged to submit their event for inclusion on the calendar by using the “Add Your Event” link on that page.

If you have any questions, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit oregon.gov/odva.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or Tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.  

###

 A public hearing will be held by the Tax Supervising and Conservation Commission on the budget approved by the budget committee for the Multnomah Education Service District, Multnomah County, State of Oregon, for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.  

The hearing will be held May 19th, 2026 at 6:00pm.  This meeting will be in a hybrid format: in person in the Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland, OR 97220 as well as virtually via Zoom.

Zoom link:

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/81252608889?pwd=lFjGrmS7MUnnazxhcmij3zNFlQ1Bon.1
Passcode:453666

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for northwest Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12 in the Santiam Room, Building D, ODF Headquarters, 2600 State Street, Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Agency updates
• Abandoned roads inventory
• Forest Practices Technical Guidance update
• Fish survey protocol
• Perennial stream model development
• Committee discussion topics

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

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

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

Rose Valley Elementary has been recognized by the Washington School Recognition Program for exceptional growth, specifically for students receiving special education services during the 2024–2025 school year.

The Washington School Recognition Program honors schools across the state that demonstrate significant progress in key areas of student success. This year, only 16% of Washington schools earned this distinction, placing Rose Valley among a select group of high-performing schools.

Schools recognized for growth must show that at least one student group made some of the largest gains in the state across multiple measures between the 2023–24 and 2024–25 school years. These measures include English language arts and math proficiency, student growth percentiles (SGP), attendance, graduation rates, ninth-grade on-track rates, dual credit completion, and English learner progress.

To qualify, the identified student group must rank in the top 10% statewide for at least 60% of the measures for which it is eligible. Schools must also demonstrate progress in closing achievement gaps, with no declines in performance among the highest- or lowest-performing student groups.

“This recognition reflects the intentional work happening every day at Rose Valley to ensure every student is supported, challenged, and able to grow,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. “We are especially proud of the progress made by our students receiving special education services. Their growth is a direct result of dedicated staff, strong systems of support, and a belief that every student can achieve at high levels.”

Kelso School District Recognition History
Kelso schools have consistently been recognized by the Washington School Recognition Program over the past decade:

• 2014 — Catlin Elementary
• 2016 — Rose Valley Elementary
• 2023 — Butler Acres Elementary
• 2024 — Butler Acres Elementary, Carrolls Elementary, Wallace Elementary
• 2025 — Rose Valley Elementary

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

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/86553292430?pwd=uwnKicD4AbP3kEos6bay5YebZXqWAt.1
Passcode:622695

UPDATE: MISSING 12-YEAR-OLD HAS BEEN LOCATED
 

RELEASE DATE:               May  3, 2026
CASE NUMBER:                26-19098

CASE UPDATE:                 May  4, 2026

Gresham, Ore—Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 12-year-old who was last seen leaving her home two days ago.

Armoni Crittendon was seen walking away from her home in the 3000 block of SE Laura Ave., on Friday, May 1, at approximately 2:30 p.m.  She was seen on a nearby surveillance camera walking northbound wearing a black backpack. Armoni is described as a Black female with black hair in braids, is 5-feet and 1-inch tall and weighs 105 pounds.  She was last seen wearing a green long-sleeved shirt, red and black pajama pants, and light-colored shoes.

If anyone has information about Armoni’s whereabouts, they are asked to call 911.

Keeping a child away from their lawful custodian may constitute the crime of Custodial Interference, a felony. (ORS 163.245).

If you think a child is being abused or neglected, you can call the police. Officers will investigate the report and work with Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Protective Services (CPS) employees to ensure the child is safe. Additionally, reports can be made directly to the Child Abuse Hotline at 855-503-SAFE (7233). Trained child welfare screeners will talk with you about your concerns and decide if follow-up or referrals are needed.

In addition to DHS, Gresham Police partners with New Avenues for Youth (NAFY) and the Alba Collaborative who provide 24/7 services for youth ages 9 to 17-years-old in crisis or in need of a safe place to stay. They are located at the New Avenues Youth Opportunity Center (YOC), 470 SE 165th Ave., Portland, OR 97233 on a shared campus with Boys & Girls Club, Open School, and Latino Network.

#30

Bend and Redmond Fire Departments were called to a brush fire along Tumalo Rd between Valeview and 92^nd. Callers reported a fire along the north side of Tumalo Rd stretching for hundreds of yards. The first arriving fire engine from the Tumalo fire station found many neighbors and passerby’s out with shovels and hoses attempting to stop the fire from spreading. Three brush engines from Bend and one from Redmond completed the extinguishment and prevented any further spread. The fire was contained at just under ¼ mile long with a total area of less than an acre burned. Several fences were damaged, but no homes or vehicles were damaged. Tumalo Rd was shut down for 30 minutes during the fire with DCSO providing traffic control. 

The fire was likely caused by hot debris from a passing vehicle traveling west on Tumalo Rd towards Old Bend Redmond Highway. Hot debris such as parts of a failing break or catalytic converter can cause these types of fires.

With fire season upon us much earlier than normal, it’s a good reminder to check your vehicle and trailer before traveling. Even this early in the year the vegetation along the roadway is dry enough that a hot piece of material off a vehicle can start a fire. As we dry out as we get further into summer it will take less and less to start these types of fires. Ensure you catalytic converter is in good shape, breaks are in good condition, and no chains or metal drag from your vehicle or trailer that can spread sparks into the dry brush along the roadway.  

PORTLAND - On Saturday, May 9th, the Hollywood Lions Club will be running their semi-annual food drive at the
Hollywood Grocery Outlet from 10am to 3pm! They will be accepting non-perishable food items for all including pet foods. All donations will benefit the Community for Positive Aging.

Please also consider bringing used eyeglasses and hearing aids for the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation!

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

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

The Hollywood Lions Club, celebrating its 97th anniversary this year, is committed to service in its community and beyond, including a long relationship with the Community for Positive Aging, with Lions on the Board of Directors. The Hollywood Lions know that “where there’s a need, there’s a Lion!”

#####

Southwest Main Street closed to driving traffic between Southwest 3rd Avenue and Southwest 4th Avenue

PORTLAND, OR – Beginning Monday, May 4, crews with the Portland Water Bureau are closing Southwest Main Street between Southwest 3rd and 4th avenues. The closure will allow crews to assess minor damage to the Thompson Elk Fountain that was caused by a vehicle collision last week.

A truck trailer struck the corner of the fountain basin’s south trough on April 27. Stone was chipped and surface oil staining occurred where the trailer collided. The fountain remains structurally intact and sound.

The City is advising drivers to avoid the area. Southwest Main Street between 3rd and 4th avenues will temporarily close beginning today. Drivers should use caution while driving in the area. Keep your distance from crews and slow down when traveling through work zones. The bike lane along Southwest Main Street will remain open during the repair.

Travelers can stay informed by visiting portland.gov/water/thompsonelk.

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

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on May 7, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/87566515305?pwd=Ay9SHualBp9wRAiAYiJ4Twnd9upmyU.1
Passcode:006396

(MEDFORD, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement in response to Asante CEO Tom Gessel’s email to staff outlining projected cuts to more than 300 Oregonians’ jobs.

“Asante executives are once again cutting caregivers and looking for someone else to blame. Let’s be clear about what’s actually happening. Asante executives chose to fire 400 Southern Oregonians in 2024; they chose to shut down Ashland Hospital’s family birth center and inpatient care; they chose to push out dozens of experienced doctors and neonatologists—specialists who care for premature babies and sick infants. 

Now they are proposing to fire hundreds more caregivers across Southern Oregon. 

These are not forced decisions. Asante executives are responsible for their actions.

Blaming frontline caregivers who save lives and staffing standards that keep patients safe is just plain wrong. It's egregious for Asante executives to rack up nearly a million dollars in fines for failing to follow a staffing law designed to keep patients safe—and then turn around and blame the law and the frontline caregivers fighting to uphold it. Suggesting the thousands of Southern Oregonians who rely on the Oregon Health Plan for lifesaving care are part of the problem is even more outrageous.

Asante executives are responsible for the problems they’ve created. 

Healthcare has real problems—increasing corporatization, skyrocketing executive salaries, and federal funding cuts from the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” which could put nearly 280,000 Oregonians at risk of losing health coverage. But cutting care and eliminating staff only makes these problems worse. 

If Asante executives are serious about addressing these challenges, they should stop stalling and sit down at the bargaining table with nurses and techs to work on real solutions that protect patients, retain caregivers and put our community first. 

It’s time for Asante executives to take responsibility for their decisions, stop cutting our community’s safety net and start working together with local caregivers to improve our community’s health and safety." 

###

Vancouver, Wash. – In February 2026, Vancouver Police opened an investigation after receiving a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding child sex abuse material involving a Vancouver IP address.

On April 29, 2026, investigators identified a suspect in this case, Chad Hartley. Detectives from the Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit (DECU) and the Children’s Justice Center (CJC) located Hartley during a pedestrian stop, took him into custody and subsequently served a search warrant at his Vancouver residence. Hartly was booked into the Clark County Jail for Dealing in Child Pornography II (x4), Possession of Child Pornography (x4), and Child Molestation I.

The investigation also revealed that Hartley was associated with Michael R. Wilmington, who is a local pediatrician affiliated with multiple medical facilities in the Portland/Vancouver area. Wilmington allegedly hosted naked sleepovers with young children at his La Center, Washington residence.

On April 30, 2026, a search warrant was served at Wilmington’s residence. Numerous items of evidence were seized.

On May 1, 2026, additional information was obtained by detectives regarding Wilmington molesting a child at his home. A felony warrant for Child Molestation I was issued for Wilmington.

On May 2, 2026, Vancouver Police were notified that Wilmington was found deceased in Lewis County from an apparent suicide. The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office is conducting the death investigation.

The investigation by the Vancouver Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Office is continuing. Detectives are asking anyone who is aware of a child who may have had unsupervised contact with Chad Hartley or Michael Wilmington to contact the local law enforcement agency for their jurisdiction.

Nothing additional is being released at this time.

###

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ore. (4 May 2026) – On Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 4:17 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash involving a motorcycle on Highway 20 near milepost 81.5 in Jefferson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound black Harley-Davidson FHX, operated by Kevin Allen Cloud (65) of Scio, attempted to pass westbound traffic, crossing the double yellow line into the eastbound lane. The motorcycle collided head-on with an eastbound gray Kia Sedona, operated by Angela Kristine MacFarland (49) of Bend.

The operator of the motorcycle (Cloud) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries. He died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

The operator of the Kia (MacFarland) had reported minor injuries.

A 14-year-old female passenger of the Kia was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Black Butte Police Department, Black Butte Ranch Rural Fire Protection District, and Sisters Fire Department.
 

# # #

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

The City of Battle Ground is now accepting applications for the Battle Ground University (BGU) Class of 2026!  BGU is designed to Educate, Engage, and Empower our community; providing “students” with an in-depth look at how the City of Battle Ground operates. 

City staff will serve as the “faculty”, providing information on a wide range of topics including:

• City Administration – September 1
• Finance – September 15
• Public Works – September 29
• Community Development – October 13
• Public Safety – October 27

Classes will be held from 6:30 – 8:00 pm on alternating Tuesdays, starting September 1, 2026.  A graduation ceremony for BGU students will take place during the November 2, 2026, City Council Meeting. 

Battle Ground University is a free program that is open to the public, pre-registration required.  Participants should be at least 18 years old. Registration is open until 5:00 pm (PST) on August 14, 2026.  Apply online at www.cityofbg.org/BGU.  There, you may also participate in a brief online survey that will help inform the program curriculum.  Share your insights about the city services and operations you are interested in learning more about.

For more information regarding Battle Ground University please contact Alisha Smith, Communications Manager, at 360-342-5004 or via email at pio.info@cityofbg.org.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites prospective students and their families to attend Preview Day, from 4 – 6:30 p.m. May 14 on the WSU Vancouver campus. The event is free and open to everyone.

Preview Day offers an inside look at campus life and the academic opportunities available at Southwest Washington’s only four‑year research university. Attendees will meet current students, admissions counselors and financial aid experts who can help them navigate their path to college.

During the event, guests will:

• Get insider tips on applying from WSU Vancouver admissions counselors
• Hear from current students about what it’s really like to be a Coug
• Learn how scholarships, financial aid and strategic planning can make college more affordable than many expect
• Get a tour of campus and resources available to help students succeed in college
• Have the chance to win fun Coug prizes, including the university’s signature Cougar Gold cheese

“Preview Day is one of the best ways to discover whether WSU Vancouver is the right fit,” said Jason Yi, campus director of admissions. “It’s an opportunity to explore the campus, meet our vibrant community and see how we support students in preparing for strong career outcomes.”

To register, visit vancouver.wsu.edu/preview.

For event accommodations, call 360‑546‑9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu.

For more information about WSU Vancouver admissions or Preview Day, email van.admissions@wsu.edu or call 360‑546‑WSUV (9788).

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver and is accessible via I-5, I-205 and C-TRAN bus service.

# # #

TRAFFIC ALERT

The Minto Island Road Closure was rescheduled by PGE until Tuesday, May 5.

Date & Time: Tuesday, May 5, 2026; 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.
 

Location: Minto Island Rd SW in Minto-Brown Island Park (road will be closed beyond Parking Lot 1, no vehicle access to Parking Lots 2 & 3)
 

Road Closure: PGE will replace a utility service pole in Minto-Brown Island Park that will require closure of Minto Island Road SW beyond Parking Lot 1. While Parking Lot 1 will be accessible to vehicle parking, Parking Lots 2 & 3 will be inaccessible to all vehicle traffic for the duration of the work.
 

Additional vehicle parking for Minto-Brown Island Park will be available at Parking Lot 4 on Homestead Road as well as Riverfront Park.
 

CAUTION: Pedestrians and cyclists should use caution when traveling the area near construction.  For public safety, please follow signage and utility crew instructions.

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

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/

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem’s Human Rights Commission, in partnership with Western Oregon University, has launched its annual Community Belonging Survey and encourages all community members to participate.
 

The survey, open now through May 12, 2026, asks Salem community members about their experiences with discrimination and sense of belonging, as well as perceptions of welcoming. 

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, especially when it comes to decisions that shape their community,” said Robert Marshall, chair of the Salem Human Rights Commission. “This survey helps ensure that people across Salem, including those whose voices are often underrepresented, can share their experiences concerning belonging to and in this community.”

Since 2020, the commission has partnered with graduate students in Western Oregon University’s Organizational Leadership program to collect and analyze this data. The findings are an additional tool to help the city better understand community needs and guide recommendations to Salem’s City Council.

About the Survey

The survey is anonymous and takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. It is open to anyone who lives in or regularly spends time in Salem and is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chuukese and Marshallese. Targeted outreach is conducted to ensure participation from communities that are often underrepresented in traditional surveys, including individuals experiencing homelessness.

Community participation is essential to ensure that the results reflect the full diversity of Salem’s population. We are especially interested in hearing from communities whose voices are often underrepresented in traditional surveys.

Take the survey here: bit.ly/hrcbelonging

For more information about the City of Salem’s Human Rights Commission and its work, please visit https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/boards-commissions/salem-human-rights-commission

Top Oregon Leaders, Including U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, to Convene in Portland for Civil Rights and Democracy Gala

PORTLAND, Ore. — A high-profile group of Oregon’s top elected officials, civic leaders, and business executives—including U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representative Janelle Bynum—will gather in Portland next month for the League of Minority Voters’ 16th Annual Liberty and Hope Awards Gala, one of the state’s largest convenings focused on civil rights and civic engagement.

The event, expected to draw more than 200 leaders from across Oregon, will take place Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the University of Oregon Portland Campus Center, 2823 NE Holman St.

Held at a time of heightened national conversation around democracy, voting rights, and community equity, the gala spotlights leaders working across sectors to strengthen civic participation and build more inclusive communities.

2026 Honorees Include:

• U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley

• U.S. Representative Janelle Bynum

• Metro Councilor Juan Carlos Gonzales

• Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai

• Erin Graham, President and CEO, OMSI

• Susan Bladhom, Founder and President, Frog Ferry

• Shayma Al Quirqchee, Community Leader and Small Business Owner

• Jennifer Luebke, CEO and Chief Disability Inclusion Officer, Relay Resources

A Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented in honor of Charles Starr.

This year’s theme, “Healthy Communities, Educated Voices, A Stronger Democracy,” reflects the League’s focus on the connection between civic participation and resilient communities. For more information about the League of Minority Voters go to: https://minorityvoters.org

The annual gala serves as the League of Minority Voters’ premier fundraising and community event, bringing together cross-sector leaders to recognize civil rights achievements, foster dialogue, and strengthen multi-racial coalitions across Oregon.

Event Co-Chairs:

• OAME

• Mel Jones

• Multnomah County Commissioner Megan Moyer

• Miller Nash

• Lilani Reeves

About the League of Minority Voters

The League of Minority Voters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented voices in civic life. Since 2007, LMV has advanced voting rights, promoted racial equity, and supported policies that strengthen inclusive participation in government and community decision-making.

###

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 12:00 PM, Linn County dispatch received a call of an injured hiker at Blue Pool.

The patient, a 53 year old female from Terrebonne, had severely injured her knee while hiking at Blue Pool.  Due to the steep terrain and difficulties accessing the area, Linn County Search & Rescue immediately began mobilizing their technical rope rescue team.  The Upper McKenzie Rural Fire District, Lane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, and Eugene Mountain Rescue responded and assisted in the rescue. 

Linn County SAR worked with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to coordinate support from the United States Coast Guard with a helicopter.  SAR members prepared the patient for helicopter transport and the Coast Guard operated a hoist-rescue.  The Coast Guard transported the patient to a nearby airfield where she was transported by the Sweet Home Fire District to the Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend in Springfield. 

During this call, a separate SAR incident was reported in the Pamelia Lake area of Linn County, and Sheriff Duncan would like to thank the Marion County Sheriff’s Office SAR team for handling this call.  

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (4 May 2026) – On Thursday, April 30, at 7:29 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 26 near milepost 28 in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gold Toyota Tacoma, operated by Wyatt Branchley Beers (18) of Whitefish (MT), was traveling eastbound on Highway 26 near Sandy when the operator fell asleep, crossed into the westbound lane, and collided with a westbound blue Subaru Outback operated by Sally Caitlin West (45) of Redmond.

Subaru passenger, Christopher James Hamre (42) of Redmond, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Subaru (West) was transported by Life Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator Toyota (Beers) was not injured. Beers remained on-scene and cooperated with the investigation.  

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas Fire and Rescue, Life Flight, AMR, the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (4 May 2026) – On Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 5:44 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 20 near milepost 21 in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Jeep Wrangler, operated by Mariah Darlene Lopez (30) of Sweet Home, was traveling westbound on Highway 20 near Sweet Home when it crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a black Kia Forte, operated by Karen Gail Ramirez (69) of Sweet Home, head-on. The operator of the Kia was ejected from the vehicle. The Jeep Wrangler had reportedly been driving recklessly prior to the crash.

The operator of the Kia (Ramirez) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Jeep (Lopez) was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries and was arrested for second-degree manslaughter. Lopez was lodged at the Linn County Jail following her release from the hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lebanon Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  

Investigators ask witnesses to the crash or those who observed the driving behavior of the involved vehicles (a white Jeep Wrangler with a black hardtop and aftermarket wheels and a black Kia Forte) prior to the crash to contact Oregon State Police dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-142871.

# # #

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

Life Jacket Fitting Events planned for youth and families on “National Wear Your Life Jacket to Work” Day

May is traditionally the month when recreational boaters start hitting the waterways, increasing in numbers as the air temperatures rise. New this year, the Oregon State Marine Board is teaming up with paddlesports leaders on May 15 to offer life jacket fitting events for youth and families at various locations statewide in conjunction with National “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work” Day.

The “Oregon Fit to Float®” Life Jacket Fitting Events are geared towards youth, families, and caregivers to make boating safety simple and approachable. “Oregon Fit to Float®” events aim to have every participant experience how a life jacket should fit, learn about what to check before getting on the water, and why comfort and safety matter in life jacket selection for the boating activity.

The following locations will be holding “Fit to Float®” activities on May 15, from 3 pm to 6 pm:
 

•     The Paddle Shack – Warren, OR

•     Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe – Portland, OR

•     KeizerFEST– Keizer, OR

•     River House Outdoor Center – Eugene, OR

•     Oregon Paddle Sports – Eugene, OR

•     SOTAR – Merlin, OR

•     Sawyer Station – Gold Hill, OR

•     Indigo Creek Outfitters – Phoenix, OR

“We are excited to bring this idea to life at eight locations across Oregon, in conjunction with National Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day,” said Priscilla Macy-Cruser, Boating Safety Advocate Program Coordinator for the Oregon State Marine Board. For years, the Oregon State Marine Board has coordinated life jacket fitting events, as well as being a funding partner for Life Jacket Loaner Stations in regions across the state. 

“Fit To Float®” is yet another way the agency is investing in communities to improve water safety through life jacket education for families, and we are happy to be doing these events in partnership with other boating safety champions. Macy-Cruser adds, “Recreational boating is a meaningful way for visitors and residents alike to enjoy our beautiful waterways, and we want to ensure they have the knowledge and tools to do it safely.”

“Fit to Float®” began as an idea from Southern Oregon-based paddle and oar manufacturer, Sawyer Paddles and Oars. The concept of having coordinated, statewide life jacket fitting events hosted by local partners was developed in collaboration with the Oregon State Marine Board, the American Canoe Association Regional Activity Council, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, with the intention of launching events that coincide with National Safe Boating Week.

“A life jacket is the key that opens the door to countless days of safe and enjoyable recreation on our rivers, lakes and oceans,” said Zac Kauffman of Sawyer Paddles and Oars. “We’re proud to work alongside local, state, and national partners to bring this idea to life across Oregon.”

“The ACA Regional Activity Council tries to help coordinate local initiatives to promote paddler safety, education, and infrastructure that makes new paddlers feel welcome in our community,” said Andrea White, National Chair of the ACA Regional Activity Council’s Safe Boating Week activities. “Fit to Float®” is a powerful idea that’s being amplified through partnership with instructors, state officials, outfitters and outdoor recreation advocates from across Oregon who recognize the enormous benefits of connecting with the water. We are excited to collaborate on this pilot campaign in 2026, with hopes of expanding its impact to other states in the future.”

Recreational boating is enjoyed by millions of Americans each year. Boating safety advocates recommend that all boaters and passengers not only have a life jacket on board but also always wear it while boating. Regardless of your age or experience level, data shows that life jackets save lives. “Fit to Float®” is designed to encourage responsible and safe boating habits. According to the 2024 U.S. Coast Guard statistics, drowning was the reported cause of death in 76% of all boating fatalities. Of those, 87% were reported as not wearing a life jacket.

Governor Kotek acknowledges how vital boating safety outreach is for educating visitors and Oregonians about safe boating and water recreation practices, aiming to decrease preventable deaths. To support this goal, May 16-22, 2026, has officially been proclaimed National Safe Boating Week. The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) organizes this annual campaign to promote awareness around safe boating habits.
 

Supporting Organizations

In addition to the Oregon State Marine Board and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, supporting organizations for the event include leaders from ACA Oregon, volunteer instructors certified by the American Canoe Association, Sawyer Paddles and Oars, SOTAR, The Paddle Shack, Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe, Keizer Fire District, River House Outdoor Center, Oregon Paddle Sports, and Indigo Creek Outfitters.

Learn more about Oregon Fit to Float®. A free online paddlesports safety course is also available on the ACA Paddlesports site. Visit Boat.Oregon.gov for all things recreational boating in Oregon.

-End-
 

WARRENTON, Ore. – A mobilization ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard’s 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment (EUD) will be held at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, near Warrenton, Oregon, at 10:30 a.m., May 3, 2026, as Soldiers prepare for a year-long mobilization.

The unit, composed of U.S. Army Engineers, will be mobilized as part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the Horn of Africa.

CJTF-HOA conducts operations to enhance partner capabilities, promote regional stability, dissuade conflict, and protect U.S. and coalition interests.

“Our Soldiers have trained hard for this mission and are ready to serve. We are proud to represent Oregon and our nation and look forward to making a meaningful contribution throughout the Horn of Africa,” said Maj. Emilie Anderson, Commander of the 442nd EUD.

The 442nd EUD is part of the larger 1249th Engineer Battalion, headquartered in Salem, Oregon. Attendance for this event is reserved for service members, their families, and invited guests.

-30-

On May 3, 2026, at approximately 10:33 a.m., a resident in the 1800 block of NE 156th Street, Vancouver, Washington, called 911 to report an unknown male discharging a firearm outside the residence. The reporting party and their family went upstairs and hid for safety.

911 dispatchers received multiple additional calls from neighbors reporting gunshots and bullets striking nearby homes. As deputies arrived, a male, later identified as 30-year-old Cyree Phillips of Vancouver, Washington, emerged from a side gate of one of the homes with a handgun visible. He complied with deputies’ commands, put the handgun down, and was taken into custody without incident.

Due to conflicting information from Phillips and multiple 911 callers, deputies were initially unable to determine whether additional suspects were involved. NE Union Road was temporarily closed while deputies conducted a search and confirmed there were no other suspects.

Victims reported that Phillips attempted to enter one of the residences, but the homeowner saw him and locked the door. Phillips is not known to the resident.

Deputies located numerous spent shell casings in a backyard at the scene. Several nearby homes were struck by gunfire; fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Preliminary evidence indicates Phillips allegedly attempted to start a fire along one of the homes using lighter fluid and a lighter.

Phillips was booked at the Clark County Jail for multiple charges, including Attempted Burglary in the First Degree, Arson in the First Degree, Reckless Endangerment, Malicious Mischief in the Third Degree, and Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm.

No additional information about intent is available at this time.

Gresham, Ore.—A driver was arrested for DUII after crashing into a tree and leaving the scene before being located nearby.

At approximately 2:00 a.m., on May 4, 2026, Gresham Police officers responded to a crash in the 16900 block of NE Halsey St., where a vehicle struck a tree in front of the Halsey East Townhomes.

Witnesses reported that shortly after the crash, the driver left the scene in a separate vehicle. Officers, with assistance from air resources already in the area, located the vehicle as it drove back toward the crash scene. The vehicle stopped about seven blocks away, and the driver was taken into custody.

The suspect requested transport to an area hospital, where she was treated for injuries related to the crash. As part of the investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for a blood draw. A preliminary report indicates the suspect’s blood alcohol content was 0.223%.

The suspect, identified as Shyrell Padmore, 24, was lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on suspicion of DUII, failure to perform the duties of a driver when property is damaged, and criminal mischief in the first degree.

#30

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is launching Inspire Vancouver, a new grant program designed to spark creativity and create more arts, culture, heritage, and science experiences for the community.

Inspire Vancouver has five grants to support a wide range of projects and needs:

• Innovation Grants ($5,000–$25,000) for new ideas and creative experiments.
• Impact Grants ($10,000–$75,000) for events, programs, and short-term projects.
• Comprehensive Grants ($100,000–$300,000) for ongoing operations and sustained impact.
• Capital Grants ($300,000+) for facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.
• School Grants, dedicating at least 10% of annual funding to support field trips and admission fees for Vancouver and Evergreen Public Schools students.

Innovation, Impact, and Comprehensive Grant applications will open this summer, for funding in 2026-27. Application timing for Capital Grants will be announced this fall for funding in 2027. School grants will begin with the 2026-27 school year.

“Inspire Vancouver opens the door for more people to experience arts, culture, heritage, and science in ways that feel accessible and relevant to our community,” said Stacey Donovan, cultural services manager. “At the same time, it creates a reliable foundation for the organizations and creatives who make that work possible, strengthening Vancouver’s cultural ecosystem for the long term.”

Eligible applicants include nonprofits and individuals with a nonprofit fiscal sponsor whose work focuses on arts, culture, heritage, or science and primarily serves Vancouver residents.

Inspire Vancouver is funded through the Vancouver Cultural Access Tax, a 0.1% sales tax adopted by City Council in December 2024. The program is expected to generate $6-7 million annually.

Visit www.inspirevancouver.org to learn more, join the mailing list, and view upcoming events and workshops. Follow Inspire Vancouver on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates.

###

BENTON & LINCOLN COUNTIES, Ore. — May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and Benton and Lincoln counties are partnering to launch a coordinated campaign encouraging residents to take steps now to prevent wildfires and prepare their homes and families.

With current conditions across Oregon, fire experts are predicting a potentially difficult wildfire season. Local officials say early action and community awareness are critical to reducing risk and protecting lives, property and natural resources.

The campaign brings together the counties’ leadership, emergency management and public health to share information and resources throughout May.

“Wildfire doesn’t recognize county lines,” said Lincoln County Emergency Manager Samantha Buckley. “Working together allows us to better serve and protect our communities across the region.”

“Preparedness starts before fire season begins,” said Benton County Emergency Manager Bryan Lee. “The steps we take today can help protect lives, homes and our communities.”

Benton and Lincoln County commissioners support the campaign and emphasize the importance of regional coordination in addressing wildfire risk.

“Wildfire preparedness is a priority for our counties,” said Benton County Public Information Officer Anne Thwaits. “We are proud to partner with Lincoln County to provide clear, coordinated information that helps keep our communities safe.”

Throughout May, the campaign will highlight key topics including wildfire prevention, home preparedness, smoke and air quality, and evacuation planning, especially for vulnerable populations.

Residents are encouraged to take action now by learning more and preparing ahead of wildfire season. Staying informed during wildfire season is also critical. Residents in both counties are encouraged to sign up for local emergency alerts and follow official county channels for real-time updates, evacuation notices and safety information.

• Benton County residents can sign up for emergency alerts at: https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/linn-benton-alert/

• Lincoln County residents can sign up for alerts at: https://oralert.gov/

Residents are encouraged to take action now by learning more and preparing ahead of wildfire season. Resources are available from Oregon partners. These resources include guidance on creating defensible space, preventing human-caused fires, preparing a go-kit, understanding smoke impacts and planning for evacuations.

PREVENTION & PREPAREDNESS

Keep Oregon Green

• Wildfire prevention tips: Prevent Wildfires - Keep Oregon Green

Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM)

• Defensible space & home hardening: Oregon State Fire Marshal: Wildfire in Oregon
• Wildfire risk reduction: Oregon State Fire Marshal: Prevent Wildfires

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF)

• Fire season restrictions & prevention: Oregon Department of Forestry: Fire

Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

• Wildfire smoke & health: Oregon Health Authority: Wildfires and Smoke: Get Prepared

Oregon Emergency Management (OEM)

• Emergency preparedness (go kits, evacuation): Oregon Department of Emergency Management: Wildfires   
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management: Be 2 Weeks Ready

Portland, Ore., May 4 ,2026 – SOLVE’s annual Earth Month initiative, in partnership with Portland General Electric, wrapped up this week with powerful results and even stronger community spirit. For the first time, the program expanded to span the full month of April, turning Earth Month into coordinated action across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Altogether, over 5,000 volunteers of all ages participated in 200+ cleanup and restoration projects across urban communities in Portland, Vancouver, Salem and Medford, along the Oregon Coast, and in rural and natural areas of Southern and Eastern Oregon. Together, they removed over 45,000 pounds of litter and marine debris, cleared half an acre as well as 50+ trees of invasive species such as English ivy and Himalayan blackberry, and mulched over 8,000 plants, helping restore natural spaces and protect waterways throughout the region.

From downtown cleanups to coastal restoration efforts, events throughout April highlighted the diversity, creativity, and energy of community action.

Earth Month Highlights:

Detrash Portland with Fred Meyer and the Portland Trail Blazers, Director Park, April 8
Earth Month began in downtown Portland with a high-energy kickoff event at Director Park, hosted in partnership with Fred Meyer and the Portland Trail Blazers. 89 volunteers alongside special appearance by Blaze the Trail Cat cleaned surrounding streets and public spaces from 200 pounds of litter, while a live DJ, snacks and a photo booth set the tone for a month of action.

Lents Park Cleanup with Dillon T. Pickle and Saucy T. Sausage, SE Portland, April 18
Midway through the month, 75 volunteers gathered at Lents Park for a lively neighborhood cleanup. The mascots of The Portland Pickles and Portland Bangers, Dillon T. Pickle and Saucy T. Sausage, brought energy and fun to the event as community members of all ages worked together to remove litter and care for the park.

Earth Day Cleanup at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland, April, 22
On Earth Day, more than 300 volunteers braved the rain and showed up for a large-scale cleanup along the Willamette River. Participants removed 1,050 pounds of litter from one of Portland’s most iconic public spaces. Local artist Mike Bennett with a sneak peek of SOLVE’s new mascot, snacks and drinks helped keep spirits high throughout the event.

Inaugural Pick It Up, Medford!, April 22
In Southern Oregon, the first-ever Pick It Up, Medford! event brought volunteers together at Pear Blossom Park to care for the city’s historic downtown. As part of SOLVE’s expanding Pick It Up! series, the event introduced the community-driven cleanup model to Medford, bringing residents and partners together for a shared day of action.

Microplastic Cleanup, Rockaway Beach, April 23
On the Oregon Coast, nearly 300 volunteers, the majority of them students from Central Valley Catholic Middle School, participated in a microplastic cleanup at Rockaway Beach. Efforts included sifting sand for microplastics and removing marine debris, highlighting the connection between inland litter and ocean health while engaging the next generation of environmental stewards.

Making Earth Cool Community Cleanup and Parade, SE Portland, April 25
Earth Month concluded on a celebratory note in Portland’s Sunnyside neighborhood, where the Making Earth Cool cleanup and parade combined environmental action with creativity and community connection. Volunteers collected litter before joining a neighborhood parade, followed by a costume contest, music, and activities that highlighted sustainable living in a fun and engaging way.

“This year’s Oregon Spring Cleanup showed the incredible impact of expanding Earth Month into a full month of action,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “From Portland to Medford and communities along the coast, volunteers came together to make a difference where they live. It’s inspiring to see this level of engagement grow, and it highlights the power of local action in creating a cleaner, healthier region.”

Building on this momentum, SOLVE continues to support volunteer-led cleanup and restoration efforts year-round, providing resources, tools, and opportunities for individuals and groups to stay involved in caring for their communities.

2026 Supporters

The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2026 was made possible through the partnership with Portland General Electric and generous support of Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon State Park & Recreation, The Standard, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Intel, Kaiser Permanente, KOIN6, LAM Research, Lithia & Driveway, National Parks Recreation & Parks Association, and PepsiCo.

About SOLVE 

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

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon trees are in for another difficult year due to climate change. Conditions this spring are already similar to those in 2015, when we experienced peak high temperatures and drought. That’s on top of a winter that tied 1934 for the warmest since accurate records were kept beginning in 1896, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Trees in Oregon have been experiencing chronic stress from hot droughts for at least a couple of decades. Although there have been a few breaks, the compounding of frequent, or long-duration warm and dry conditions have taken their toll on many trees. These conditions include:

• higher than average temperatures
• inconsistent precipitation, or more precipitation falling as rain than snow
• earlier snow melt.

Oregon Department of Forestry Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl said, “A warm or dry spring is particularly harmful for trees as this is their most active growing period. This stress reduces growth, weakens defenses against opportunistic insects and diseases, and can outright kill tissues or whole trees.”

Buhl said warmer conditions can also make conditions more favorable to tree pests. 

“Warm winters reduce pest deaths from cold, increasing their growth or number of pests. It also extends the range of less cold-tolerant pests, and lengthens their feeding periods,” she said.

Buhl has this guidance for landowners:

1. Plant species and seedlots (stock adapted to a specific area) only within their current and climate-projected range.
2. Avoid planting seedlings during dry seasons and keep roots moist and out of direct sun when planting for best establishment.
3. Reduce competition for moisture by controlling weeds and reducing stand density to the carrying capacity for the tree species, site quality, and climate.
4. If currently adapted species or seedlots are struggling, shift toward a nearby, more drought-tolerant seedlot, or in extreme cases a more drought-tolerant species
5. Native understory vegetation and mulch can help retain soil moisture.
6. Avoid root compaction from heavy equipment when the soil is wet.
7. Avoid fertilizing if the site is drought-stressed. Fertilizer increases biomass and therefore water requirements.

Find more information on trees and drought at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/documents/forestbenefits/drought.pdf

                                                                               # # #

PORTLAND, ORE., May 4, 2026 – Kaiser Permanente’s Sunnyside and Westside medical centers in Portland, Ore. have been awarded a place on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2026.

“We are honored to have Kaiser Permanente be recognized among the nation’s top maternity hospitals, which reflects the compassionate, high-quality care our teams provide every day,” said Elizabeth Melendez, MD, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology for Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “This distinction underscores our teams’ dedication to supporting mothers and babies with expertise, collaboration, and heartfelt commitment at every step of their journey.”

Sunnyside and Westside medical centers are among 29 Kaiser Permanente hospitals recognized among the best in the nation for maternity care. The America’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2026 ranking awards the leading hospitals for maternity care in the U.S. based on:

• Hospital Quality Metrics: with a focus on indicators relevant to maternity care.
• Patient Experience: from public hospital survey data.
• Reputation Score: Healthcare professionals and hospital managers with knowledge about maternity processes e.g., neonatal and perinatal doctors, nurses and midwives were asked to recommend leading maternity hospitals in the U.S.

High-quality maternity care, provided from pregnancy through birth and postpartum, is key to the long-term health of newborns and women who give birth. Given that maternity care is a major component of healthcare, Newsweek and Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider, have partnered to identify America’s Best Maternity Hospitals in 2026.

See more on Newsweek’s 2026 America’s Best Maternity Hospitals list.

###

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. 

• Removing leaves, pine needles, and other combustible material from the roof, gutters, and deck (on and under) to prevent embers from igniting the home
• Covering vents with 1/8" metal wire mesh to prevent embers from entering the home
• Removing or relocating combustible items such as furniture, cushions, trash cans, and rugs at least five feet from the house
• Choosing options like gravel or pavers instead of bark mulch within the first five feet of the house
• Keeping lawns lean, clean, and green during fire season

May 4, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Paige Parker

Public Relations Manager

Oregon Community Foundation

ker@oregoncf.org">pparker@oregoncf.org

SPRING GRANTS FROM OREGON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SUPPORT NONPROFITS IN RURAL, URBAN COMMUNITIES

Nonprofits share 258 grants totaling nearly $5.2 million across several programs

PORTLAND, Ore. — A nonprofit that stands up for domestic and sexual violence survivors in Yamhill County.

A community radio station that broadcasts Spanish-language news and music to the Columbia River Gorge.

And an organization that supplies furniture to people starting over in Central Oregon.

These are just a few of the nonprofits across Oregon that will share nearly $5.2 million in grants to strengthen community well-being, build arts infrastructure, expand economic opportunities and stabilize families.

In total, 258 grants will support organizations through several Oregon Community Foundation grant programs. Most of the funding — $4.77 million — comes through the Community Grants program and goes to 252 organizations. Grants go to organizations serving all 36 Oregon counties.

“Oregon is full of people working hard to improve the lives of our neighbors across the state, and we’re grateful to our donors for sharing resources to support big ideas and smart solutions,” said Kim Koenig, Director of Community Programs for Oregon Community Foundation.

Community Grants: $4.77 million for General Operating Support

The Community Grants Program is a responsive funding opportunity for nonprofits based in Oregon or primarily serving Oregon communities. This cycle, OCF prioritized three categories of organizations that have historically experienced underinvestment: those serving small, rural communities, and those that are either culturally specific or culturally responsive. Nearly half of the grants went to organizations focused on economic vitality and livability.

Nonprofits use the flexible grants where they matter most — on anything from stabilizing staffing, strengthening essential programs or maintaining the infrastructure that allows organizations to serve their communities. This spring’s awards will help nonprofits meet rising demand and support community-led solutions in both rural and urban areas.

Row River Fire Response received a grant to protect residents of the 20-mile Row River Valley in Lane County.

“We started this work in 2022 with a goal of fire protection in the valley, and in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district,” said Kathleen Istudor, Executive Director.

“Now in 2026, that effort continues to grow as we work to build a main fire station for our volunteers. Along the way, we have come to see how connected we are, not just to each other, but to the land, the watershed and the people beyond our valley.”

Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program will use its grant to provide high-quality preschool, summer camp, afterschool activities and more to families on the North Coast.

“We try to keep tuition as low as possible so that we can ensure services to all families who walk through our doors,” said Kristina Anderson, Executive Director.

To see the full list of grants by region, click here.

Arts and Culture Grants: $250,000 to Build Arts Sector

In 2022, OCF established a learning community to give arts educators a forum to learn from each other and build leadership in their field. Out of it grew the Oregon Arts Education Collective, a program that connects educators and advocates to cultivate a thriving arts ecosystem across the state. A grant will support the Collective as members develop infrastructure and build coalitions that advance arts and culture.

Arts and Culture Grants: $50,000 to Preserve, Inspire Field of Architecture

A fund that advances the professional development of design and building professionals will award a $50,000 fellowship. The Van Evera and Janet M. Bailey fund supports the Van Evera Baily Fellowship, which is designed and administered by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon in partnership with OCF.

Economic Vitality Grants: $37,500 to Support Sector, Small Businesses

Economic Vitality grants will support nonprofits helping communities build and sustain strong local economies, including efforts that expand entrepreneurship, strengthen small businesses and increase access to opportunity. These resources will help communities invest in strategies that create stability for workers, families and local employers.

Housing Stability in Oregon: $30,000 for Homelessness Response

These grants support research around best practices for organizations helping Oregonians stay housed and regain stability.

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

COMMUNITY STORIES

Furnish Hope: Central Oregon

“Furnish Hope started furnishing homes over seven years ago. We believe that everybody needs a place to call home and that there are people all throughout our community that are working really hard to get back on their feet after something unexpected and oftentimes traumatic has happened.
“When they do get back on their feet and they're able to get into housing again, most of the time, they don't have any furniture, because if they've lost their home, they've lost their furniture, and if they've lost their furniture, they've most likely also lost a lot of their community, a lot of the people who can rally around them.
“So, we show up with a trailer full of items that have been donated to us. We're putting 1,000 items in each home, from the teeny, tiny little things that go into a kitchen to large pieces of furniture. Those items come to us every day from people throughout the community.
“We've furnished over 3,000 homes in seven years. On average, we furnish 50 or more homes each month. Our vision is to see this region transformed by hope. And the vehicle that we use to bring hope to people is furniture.
“We say: ‘We see you. You're not defined by your circumstances. Your life has meaning, purpose and value. You are worthy of every single one of these items.’”

Megan Martin
Founding Executive Director
Furnish Hope

Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program: North Coast

“Since our beginning over 30 years ago, Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program has served local and visiting youth through preschool, summer camp, after school programming, family events, and enrichment activities. As the Executive Director of YYFAP, I am reminded daily just how fortunate we are to live, serve, and grow in our coastal town of Yachats.

“Students and families come to our doors from Yachats, Waldport, Newport, Seal Rock, Alsea, Tidewater, the Tenmile area, and across the United States. We try to keep tuition as low as possible so that we can ensure services to all families who walk through our doors. Funding from this grant will go directly toward our high-quality programming and material costs. It is an honor to serve the children and families of our community.”

Kristina Anderson
Executive Director
Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program

Henderson House: Northern Willamette Valley

“The mission of Henderson House is to provide culturally aware outreach, education and services for victims of domestic and sexual violence through leadership, hope and respect for thriving families. We were founded and are currently led by survivors of domestic and sexual violence. We are the only domestic and sexual violence confidential victim services provider in Yamhill County. We offer culturally relevant services to the Latinx population which have been developed, facilitated and informed by Latinx survivors.

“Our services include confidential one-on-one advocacy, 90-day emergency shelter, motel vouchers, protection order assistance, court accompaniment, survivor healing events, art therapy groups for survivors and their children, trauma informed parenting classes, prevention education, DHS co-located advocacy, community outreach, crisis response, emergency room accompaniment during a sexual assault, strangulation, or high lethality forensic exam, safety planning, provider of Oregon Health Authority HRSN program, resource and referrals and basic needs supplies.”

Fay Schuler
Executive Director
Henderson House

Rogue Valley Mentoring: Southern Oregon

“Rogue Valley Mentoring is a nonprofit based in Southern Oregon with a mission to transform entire communities through the mentoring of youth. For over 20 years, we have connected young people ages 9–24 with trained, caring adult mentors through both one-to-one relationships and school and community-based mentoring circles.

“We serve youth across Jackson County who are navigating complex challenges, including poverty, social isolation, trauma, housing instability and limited access to mental health support. Many of the young people we work with have experienced disruptions in school, family instability, or a lack of consistent, supportive adult relationships.

“Our programs are designed to meet youth where they are, on school campuses, in after-school settings, and in the community, removing barriers to access and ensuring that support is culturally responsive and relationship-centered. We act as a bridge for youth and their families by helping them connect to trusted community resources such as counseling, healthcare and basic needs services.

“Our work makes a difference because it addresses a fundamental human need: connection. Through mentoring, young people build confidence, strengthen social-
emotional skills and develop a sense of belonging. Research and our own data show that when youth have a consistent, caring adult in their lives, they are more likely to stay engaged in school, make positive choices and envision a hopeful future.”

Laura Pinney
Executive Director
Rogue Valley Mentoring

Row River Fire Response: Southern Willamette Valley

“One action leads to another. Trust builds trust. A shared goal becomes a mission, and that mission grows into a community with purpose. We started this work in 2022 with a goal of fire protection in the valley, and in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district. Now in 2026, that effort continues to grow as we work to build a main fire station for our volunteers.
“Along the way, we have come to see how connected we are, not just to each other, but to the land, the watershed, and the people beyond our valley. What is taking shape here reaches beyond this place. It reflects a shared responsibility for the people and landscapes we are connected to across Oregon. Small actions, carried forward, can grow into something that serves far more than where it began.

“This 20-mile valley serves a much larger region, supplying drinking water to downstream communities, hosting the Row River Trail, one of Lane County’s top destinations, and providing a primary corridor to the Umpqua National Forest. After years without emergency response, in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district, now supported by 23 firefighters, strengthening a shared sense of responsibility and connection across the valley. That effort continues in 2026, as we work to establish a fire station to improve response, support our volunteers, and protect our community, visitors, and this part of Oregon’s forest, watershed, and the falls and rivers that draw visitors across the state. Please visit and explore the Row River Valley for yourself.”

Kathleen Istudor
Executive Director
Row River Fire Response

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2026

Vancouver Fire Department Responds to Multi-Vehicle Collision with Multiple Injuries

Vancouver, WA — At approximately 10:16 PM on May 3, 2026, the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a multi-vehicle collision involving three vehicles on Mill Plain Boulevard in the area of SE 124th Avenue.

Upon arrival, crews found a complex scene spanning several blocks with multiple patients requiring medical attention. Due to the scale and severity of the incident, the first-arriving fire engine requested additional resources, including a second fire engine, a ladder truck, a Battalion Chief, and three ambulances.

One adult female patient required heavy extrication after her vehicle sustained a secondary collision with a large business sign, resulting in significant intrusion into the passenger compartment. The vehicle came to rest between two structural pillars, necessitating rapid and coordinated rescue efforts. Firefighters removed the entire passenger side of the vehicle while simultaneously providing medical care to the patient.

Once extricated, the patient was stabilized, packaged, and transported via ambulance to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. A Vancouver Fire Department paramedic and captain accompanied the ambulance crew to provide advanced life support during the emergency transport.

Additional patients from the incident were evaluated and transported by ambulance as needed.

The Vancouver Police Department assisted at the scene by managing traffic control and conducting an investigation into the cause of the collision.

Safety Reminder:
The Vancouver Fire Department reminds all drivers to remain vigilant, avoid distractions, and obey posted speed limits—especially at night when visibility is reduced. Serious crashes can happen in seconds, but their consequences can last a lifetime. Always wear your seatbelt and drive responsibly to protect yourself and others on the road.

Media Contact:
Vancouver Fire Department Public Information Officer
Captain Raymond Egan
raymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us
cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
PIO Cell (360) 869-3914

WARRENTON, Ore. — Family members, fellow soldiers, and community supporters gathered at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center on May 3, to formally bid farewell to the Oregon Army National Guard's 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment (EUD) as the unit conducted a formal mobilization ceremony as the Soldiers prepare to depart for a year-long deployment in support of U.S. Africa Command's mission in the Horn of Africa.

​The mobilization ceremony was held at the Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, near Warrenton, Oregon, and was presided over by Brig. Gen. Philip DeMontigny, Assistant Adjunct General-Army, with remarks from Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander. The 234th Army Band provided musical honors, marking the occasion with the solemnity and pride befitting Oregon's soldiers service.

​The 442nd EUD, composed of U.S. Army Engineers, will deploy to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, operating as part of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). The unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region, directly advancing U.S. Africa Command's efforts to build partner capacity, promote regional stability, and counter violent extremist organizations across the continent.

​“While you’re there, you’ll build, you’ll repair, you’ll improve the infrastructure, and you’ll solve problems,” DeMontigny said. “In doing so you’ll help support the base, sustain our operations on the Horn, and help create conditions for the success of the mission.”

​Every soldier in the detachment volunteered for this mission. Many came from outside the 442nd and completed cross-training to earn the unit's 12-series engineer military occupational specialty.

​“It’s a complete volunteer deployment,” said Capt. Ryan Dobler, the unit’s construction operations officer, from Cornelius, Oregon. “A lot of people came from outside of 442, and a lot of them didn’t organically have our 12-series MOS (Military Occupational Skill). The ability of the unit to cross-train, learn, adapt, and become one cohesive unit was really, really cool to see.”

​Dobler, who will assist the detachment commander, Maj. Emilie Anderson, with completing construction designs and managing schedules, labor, and material estimates, described a mission environment unlike standard stateside operations.

​“There are a lot of variety missions — it’s very fast-paced,” Dobler said. “Our customer gives us a napkin sketch, and we have to take it from that napkin sketch to something in reality, whether it’s force protection or meeting the installation’s needs.”

​Soldiers trained extensively in the lead-up to the deployment, including three weeks at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center in eastern Oregon. Teams tackled live construction projects — removing and replacing sidewalks, building overhead cover, converting buildings into usable office spaces, and using heavy equipment to clear a riverbed for infantry training. The work mirrored the kind of real-world construction they will execute downrange.

​“I’m excited,” said Staff Sgt. Rebecca Warden, a squad leader in the unit. “I’m a little nervous about the unknown, but I’m excited to get there, get into a good routine, and get the mission done.”

​CJTF-HOA conducts operations across the Horn of Africa to enhance partner nation capabilities, promote regional stability, dissuade conflict, and protect U.S. and coalition interests.CJTF-HOA conducts operations across the Horn of Africa to enhance partner nation capabilities, promote regional stability, dissuade conflict, and protect U.S. and coalition interests. The 442nd EUD’s engineering expertise will directly support those objectives through infrastructure improvements at military installations across the region.

Released Imagery: 

20260503-Z-UA707-0001: An Oregon Army National Guard Soldier, assigned to the 234th Army Band prepares to play his trombone during the mobilization ceremony for the Oregon  National Guard’s 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment, held at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, Warrenton, Oregon, on May 3, 2026. The 442nd EUD is deploying for a year-long mobilization in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, where the unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ehren Castle)

20260503-Z-UA707-0002: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment, stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, Warrenton, Oregon, on May 3, 2026. The 442nd EUD is deploying for a year-long mobilization in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, where the unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ehren Castle)

20260503-Z-UA707-0003: Brig. Gen. Philip DeMontigny Assistant Adjutant General – Army for the Oregon National Guard, greets soldiers assigned to the 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment, Oregon Army National Guard, during the receiving line following their mobilization ceremony at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, Warrenton, Oregon, on May 3, 2026. The 442nd EUD is deploying for a year-long mobilization in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, where the unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ehren Castle)

20260503-Z-UA707-0004: An Oregon Army National Guard Soldier assigned to the 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment, embraces a family member during the receiving line following their mobilization ceremony at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, Warrenton, Oregon, on May 3, 2026. The 442nd EUD is deploying for a year-long mobilization in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, where the unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ehren Castle)

20260503-Z-UA707-0005: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 442nd Engineer Utilities Detachment, reunite with family members following their mobilization ceremony at Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, Warrenton, Oregon, on May 3, 2026. The 442nd EUD is deploying for a year-long mobilization in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, where the unit will provide vertical and horizontal construction support to military installations throughout the region. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Capt. Ehren Castle)

Woodburn Police Department is asking that everyone avoid the 16000 block of Arney Rd. NE, Woodburn OR. due to an active police investigation. 

A Woodburn Police Officer was involved in a confrontation on Arney Road and discharged a firearm.  This deadly force incident is now being investigated by Salem Police Department.  Further updates regarding the investigation will be released by Salem Police Department. 

At 5:58 pm on Saturday, May 2 2026, multiple 911 callers reported a structure fire in the Suntree Village Mobile Home Park.  Initial reports were of a single home on fire, with explosions heard.  The first fire units arrived on scene at 6:04 pm, finding the fire had spread to a second residence.  Crews were able to quickly knock down the flames, both fires were contained within 35 minutes and the last units cleared the scene at 7:42 pm.  One home is a complete loss, the second home sustained minor damage.  The homeowner declined Red Cross assistance.  

Upon investigation, it was found that the fire originated on the front porch of the home that was a complete loss.  Smoking materials were improperly discarded into a plastic trash can with other waste material, which then ignited.  The fire spread to adjacent propane tanks for a grill, which caused the explosions reported by 911 callers.

According to the Oregon State Fire Marshal, an average of 11 people in our state die each year from fires caused by smoking materials such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco.  Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind the community that it is important for smokers to know the steps to take to keep themselves, their families, and their communities safe.  While smoking outside is generally considered safer than indoors, discarding these materials into vegetation, planter boxes, bark mulch, or trash cans can lead to a fire.  Always discard materials into non-combustible containers that are placed away from anything that can burn.  For more safety information, visit the City of Bend website at https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/community-resources-programs/#resources

Lake Oswego, OR – The Lake Oswego Lions Club, in partnership with the VisionEnvoy Club Branch, is proud to announce the 77th Annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast, taking place on Saturday, July 4, beginning at 7:00 am at George Rogers Park, located at 611 S State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034.

This beloved Independence Day tradition has brought the Lake Oswego community together for more than seven decades. Families, neighbors, and visitors are invited to start their 4th of July celebrations with a classic pancake breakfast in the park while enjoying the spirit of community service and fellowship that defines Lions Clubs.

The annual event is made possible through the generous support of participants, sponsors, and a dedicated army of volunteers. Their continued commitment allows the Lake Oswego Lions Club to host this long standing community gathering and continue its mission of service.

“This is our 77th year hosting the 4th of July Pancake Breakfast, and we are honored to once again bring this tradition to George Rogers Park,” said Bonnie Roeder, President of the Lake Oswego Lions Club. “The support of our community, sponsors, and volunteers is what makes this event possible year after year.”

Community members interested in volunteering, sponsorship opportunities, or event participation are encouraged to reach out directly.

For more information, please contact:
Bonnie Roeder, President
Lake Oswego Lions Club
bonnieroeder@comcast.net

The Lake Oswego Lions Club looks forward to welcoming the community for a festive morning of food, fellowship, and celebration as Lake Oswego marks another Independence Day together!

On 5/1/26 at approximately 1801 hours, multiple 911 callers reported a three‑vehicle collision at the intersection of NE 99th St and NE 130th Ave. Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies and Vancouver Fire—Engine 11 arrived within three minutes of the call and located a black Dodge Ram pickup that had come to rest on top of a gray Tesla Model 3 sedan. A white Ford Econoline van was also involved in the collision and was blocking the westbound lane of NE 99th St, approximately sixty feet from the other vehicles.

Preliminary information indicates the Dodge Ram was traveling westbound on NE 99th St and entered the intersection at NE 130th Ave against a red light. The Ford Econoline was traveling southbound through the intersection on a green light when the front of the Dodge Ram struck the driver’s side of the Ford. The Dodge Ram continued west as it slid broadside into the eastbound lane of NE 99th St, where it collided with the Tesla Model 3, which was stopped for the traffic signal at NE 130th Ave.

The driver of the Dodge Ram displayed observable signs of impairment, and a DUI investigation was conducted. The driver of the Ford Econoline sustained injuries and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital. The driver of the Tesla was not physically injured.

The Traffic Homicide Unit responded, and the roadway was closed for approximately five hours while investigators examined the scene.

Traffic detectives believe there may be additional witnesses who observed the Dodge Ram’s driving behavior prior to the collision. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Traffic Homicide Unit at trafficdetectives@clark.wa.gov and reference case 26003182. The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available for release at this time.

Photographs are attached of the black Dodge Ram pickup, gray Tesla Model 3 sedan, and white Ford Econoline van.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2026 – 10:15 PM

Crash Involving Hazardous Materials Closes NE Padden Parkway – Shelter-in-Place Advisory Issued

Emergency responders are currently on scene of a rollover crash involving hazardous materials near NE Padden Parkway and NE 107th Avenue in Clark County. At approximately 9:03 PM, a pickup truck traveling westbound struck the center median, crossed into oncoming traffic, and rolled over, coming to rest on its side in the eastbound lanes. The driver, the sole occupant, was initially trapped inside the vehicle but conscious and breathing. The driver has since been removed and is receiving medical care. During the crash, containers in the truck released a chemical identified as muriatic acid. The spill spread across all eastbound lanes, producing visible fumes and a vapor cloud drifting southwest due to prevailing winds.

What this means for the public:

• NE Padden Parkway is fully closed in both directions between approximately NE 94th Street and State Route 503

• Traffic is being turned around, and drivers should expect significant delays in the surrounding area

• Residents within roughly 1,000 feet of NE 107th Avenue are advised to shelter in place, stay indoors, and close windows and doors

• Pedestrians and cyclists are being cleared from nearby overpasses and trails for safety

Hazmat teams are actively working to identify, contain, and neutralize the chemical spill. Fire crews are operating in protective equipment due to the fumes, and air monitoring is ongoing. One firefighter was transported to a local hospital due to exposure, and additional medical units have been staged as a precaution. Due to the hazardous environment:

• Avoid the area completely

• Do not attempt to bypass closures or approach the scene

• Follow instructions from emergency personnel

This is a developing situation. Road closures are expected to remain in place for several hours while cleanup and safety assessments continue. Updates will be shared as conditions change.