DALLAS (OR) – Christopher Denver Castator, 33, has been sentenced to serve 70 months (5 years, 10 months) in prison for injuring a store employee as he was attempting to elude being apprehended for stealing from the West Salem Roth’s Fresh Market.

Castator, of Redmond, Oregon, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso, after pleading guilty to Robbery in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. The May, 2025 incident arose after the victim attempted to prevent the defendant and an accomplice from stealing merchandise. As the pair were retreating in their vehicle, Castator shot and struck the victim with a seven-inch arrow propelled from a blowgun type device.

 Judge Caso sentenced Castator according to Oregon’s Measure 11 minimum mandatory sentencing law. He will not be eligible for any form of early release or sentence reduction for the entire length of his incarceration. He will also be required to serve a 36-month term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

The case was investigated by the Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 4, 2026

Media Contact: communications@employ.oregon.gov

WorkSource Oregon to Host Second Chance Career Fair in Southeast Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. — WorkSource Oregon will host its first-ever Second Chance Career Fair on Wednesday, Feb.11, from 10 a.m. to noon at the WorkSource Oregon – Portland Metro Southeast Center in Portland. The free event will connect job seekers with local employers who are open to hiring people facing barriers to employment, including recent incarceration.

“This event is about opening doors,” Oregon Employment Department director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “We want job seekers to have direct conversations with employers who value skills, potential, and growth, and who understand that talent exists everywhere.” 

All job seekers are invited to attend and connect with employers from a range of industries, including healthcare, social services, manufacturing, staffing, and nonprofit organizations. Employers and community partners scheduled to attend include the City of Portland, Dress for Success, Gliss, Central City Concern, United Salad, Stone Soup, DPI Staffing, The Pathfinder Network, Urban League of Portland, and Oxford House. 

“We encourage attendees to bring copies of their resumes and be prepared to speak directly with employers about current job openings, career pathways, and next steps,” said Reentry Specialist Chelsea Cook, who is coordinating the job fair. “WorkSource Oregon staff will also be available to provide information about job search support and employment services.” Cook specializes in helping people who have been formerly incarcerated find jobs. 

This is the first time WorkSource Oregon has hosted a career fair focused on second chance hiring but hopes to make it an annual event in the future. 

Event details 

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 
Time: 10 a.m. to noon 
Location: WorkSource Oregon – Portland Metro Southeast Center 
6401 SE Foster Rd., Portland, OR 97206 

Email: Services@oregon.gov" target="_blank">EmployerServices@oregon.gov.

About Workforce Operations 

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.  

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to Services@oregon.gov" target="_blank">EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a Services@oregon.gov" target="_blank">EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

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VANCOUVER, Wash. — In conjunction with Financial Aid Awareness month this February, the Financial Aid Office at Clark College will host a series of free workshops beginning Feb. 5, to help current and prospective students better understand how to pay for college at its main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA.

Open to the public, the free workshops will cover key financial aid topics including scholarships, student employment, student loans, and maintaining eligibility for aid. The series is designed for anyone considering higher education and who has questions or concerns about college costs.

“Many students and families assume college is out of reach financially, when in reality there are more resources available than ever before,” said Associate Dean of Financial Aid, Glendi Gaddis. “These workshops are about breaking down barriers, busting myths, and helping people feel confident navigating the financial aid process.”

Participants will learn about the different types of financial aid available — including grants, scholarships, work study, and loans — and gain practical guidance on applying for aid and staying eligible once enrolled. 

Washington is among the most generous states in the nation when it comes to supporting access to higher education, with nearly half of Washington households qualifying for some form of financial aid. However, accessing that support often begins with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WAFSA) — a step many eligible students do not take.

Clark College’s Financial Aid workshops aim to increase awareness, encourage FAFSA/WAFSA completion, and support current/existing students and families as they navigate the process.

Workshop Schedule (main campus at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver WA)

SCHOLARSHIPS: Show Me the Money 
Learn where to find scholarships, how to apply, and tips to stand out. Attendees can also get help with filling out Clark College Foundation scholarship application.

Date: Thursday, February 5        Time: 2:00-3:00pm, Gaiser Hall  (GHL) 213

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT: Earn While You Learn 
Discover on-campus job options, how to apply, and how working can fit into your class schedule.

Date: Monday, February 9           Time: 2:00-3:00pm, Gaiser Hall  (GHL) 213

MAINTAINING ELIGIBILITY: Understanding Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) 
Find out what SAP is, why it matters, and how to stay eligible for financial aid.

Date: Thursday, February 19       Time: 2:00-3:00pm, Penguin Union Building (PUB) 258B

STUDENT LOANS: Know Before You Owe 
Get the facts about student loans, borrowing wisely, and what repayment really looks like.

Date: Monday, February 23         Time: 2:00-3:00pm, Gaiser Hall (GHL) 205

Financial Aid Resources

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)  - https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

• Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WAFSA) - https://wsac.wa.gov/wasfa

• State Board of Community & Technical Colleges (SBCTC) - https://www.sbctc.edu/paying-for-college/

• Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) - https://wsac.wa.gov/financial-aid

About Clark’s Financial Aid Office

The Clark College Financial Aid Office supports students by providing access to financial resources, education, and guidance that empower them to achieve their academic and professional goals. Services include financial aid advising, workshops, work study opportunities, and financial wellness resources.

Learn more: https://clark.edu/enroll/paying-for-college/financial-aid
FAQs: https://www.clark.edu/enroll/paying-for-college/financial-aid/faq.php

Event Information

Location: Clark College main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 

Cost: Free - there is no fee to attend. No registration required.

Driving directions and parking maps are available at www.clark.edu/maps.

All Are Welcome: Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. 
Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. 

Accommodation: If you need an accommodation due to a disability to participate in this event, please contact hr@clark.edu or 360-992-2432. Please make requests as early as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.

About Clark College

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students, including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, and multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.  

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Vancouver, WA – February 2, 2026 – Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) will host its annual Youth of the Year Celebration on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Clark College in Vancouver. The event recognizes outstanding local teens for leadership, academic achievement, community service, and healthy lifestyles.

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s highest honor, recognizing teens who demonstrate exceptional leadership and character. Local nominees have spent months preparing for the event, participating in leadership workshops, writing personal essays, and crafting speeches that reflect on their journeys and the impact BGCSW has had on their lives.

“These young people are already leaders in our community,” said Francisco Bueno, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington. “Youth of the Year is about more than recognition, it’s about giving teens a platform to be heard and showing our community what’s possible when we invest in young people.”

One local Youth of the Year will be selected to represent Southwest Washington at the Washington State Youth of the Year competition, where they will compete for college scholarships and the opportunity to advance to regional and national levels.

Community members are invited to attend the celebration and show their support for local youth. Media are encouraged to attend and will have opportunities to interview nominees, families, and Club leadership.

For event details and tickets, visit mybgc.org.

Why This Matters

• Youth of the Year gives local teens a public platform to share their stories, challenges, and goals with the community.
• Finalists compete for scholarship opportunities that can directly impact their ability to pursue higher education.
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington serves more than 2,000 youth annually, helping young people build confidence, leadership skills, and academic success.
• One local teen will represent Southwest Washington at the Washington State Youth of the Year competition.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington:

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington exists to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible community members. Since our founding, we have been committed to providing a safe and positive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.

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TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, ORE.—Browns Camp Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Campground, managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), will transition from a first-come, first-served model to a reservation-only system when it reopens for the season on April 1, 2026.

“We are making the change to a reservation-only campground for two main reasons,” said Ben Burns, ODF’s State Forests Recreation Facilities Manager. “First, it benefits our campers. When you load up your toy hauler for a weekend trip, it’s reassuring to know you’ll have a campsite waiting when you arrive. This system eliminates the frustration of driving around the campground hoping to find an open site.”

ODF successfully implemented a reservation system at all equestrian campgrounds in 2025 for similar reasons.

“Horse campers often travel long distances with large trailers and have limited options if a campground is full,” Burns said. “The reservation system worked well to eliminate that problem, so based on that success, we’re expanding reservations to OHV campgrounds.”

The change will also improve operational efficiencies.

“Fee collection takes up a significant portion of staff time during the camping season,” Burns said. “The time saved can instead be used to better maintain and improve our campgrounds.”

Browns Camp has 28 campsites, and ODF encourages visitors to reserve early—especially for busy holiday weekends—when reservations open on March 2, 2026. The group camping area at Browns Camp is already reservation-based and will remain unchanged.

Campsites can be reserved at www.reserveamerica.com. Same-day reservations will be allowed although reserving sites prior will be recommended due to spotty cell phone service in the area. Camping fees will remain the same at Browns Camp: $20 per night.

In addition, ODF is working to improve overnight options for OHV users in Tillamook State Forest by converting the Diamond Mill OHV Area into a campground.

“We are actively working on that project, and it will be ready to roll out for the 2026 season,” said Burns.  Visit ODF’s  Recreation, Education and Interpretation website and social media sites for updates and opening announcements.”

Salem, OR – The Department of Administrative Services Office of Economic Analysis State Chief Economist Carl Riccadonna and Senior Economist Michael Kennedy presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the legislative committee on finance and revenue on Wednesday, Feb. 4. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to the public and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is different about this forecast?

The first quarter (Q1) March economic outlook shows improvement as government data releases have primarily returned to their normal schedule following the federal government shutdown last fall. Both state and national economic resilience remain a key focus. A stronger growth outlook, supported by monetary and fiscal stimulus, further reduces recession risks and is expected to create positive labor market conditions.

Revenue Forecast

As new information about prior tax years becomes available, it reshapes the understanding of tax collections related to economic activity. Over the last three months, updated data shows Corporate Income Tax liability is stronger than expected, while Personal Income Tax liability is modestly lower than previously estimated. Improved data on economic output and profitability, along with resources carried over from the prior biennium, contribute to the net change in the projected General Fund balance.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis, within the Department of Administrative Services, and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis and recent forecasts, please visit the OEA website.

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Instructor Rachel Skinner of Southwest Portland has received the Oregon Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages Award of Excellence in Teaching, recognizing her student-first approach in Portland Community College’s ESOL Program.

“Being chosen for the ORTESOL Award of Excellence in Teaching is truly an honor and deeply meaningful to me,” Skinner said. “ORTESOL is a community I admire for its generosity, collaboration, and commitment to multilingual learners, and I am grateful to be recognized by colleagues I respect so much.” 

While Skinner is a relatively new instructor, she is already making a significant and positive impact on the program, according to colleagues who have noted her "passion, creativity, and commitment" to her students.  

Skinner shared that a bilingual journey of living in Brazil deeply shaped her view of language and culture. Nowadays, she uses that experience as fuel in supporting learners as they navigate new languages, communities, and ways of seeing the world. In her U.S. culture class for international students, she organizes field trips that support cultural integration, including basketball games at the Moda Center, as well as on-campus visits to the PCC Maker Lab and other outings.

“It is evident Rachel goes above and beyond in several projects she has initiated or collaborated on,” said fellow ESOL faculty Luciana Diniz. “She is an inspiration to both instructors and students within our department."

The ESOL faculty serves as the new editor of The Ambassador, the ESOL department’s tri-annual magazine, encouraging students to contribute and helping showcase their work. Colleagues said Skinner’s focus on equitable, student-centered learning, particularly for vulnerable learners who benefit from extra time and individualized instruction, is a difference maker.

She launched “Literacy Hour” at Sylvania Campus to provide extra reading and writing support for Level 1 students, then expanded it to other ESOL learners who needed additional practice. She recruited and trained volunteers for one-on-one tutoring and worked with local literacy groups to connect tutors with multilingual learners.

Skinner received seven independent nominations, higher than the typical one or two, according to ORTESOL’s Grants and Awards Committee. This committee evaluates candidates on meeting student needs, strong instruction, innovation, equity and inclusion, and leadership among peers.

“This award affirms the joy and purpose I find in teaching and reminds me why I am so passionate about supporting learners as they grow in language, confidence, and connection,” she said.

Skinner holds a master’s degree in teaching English to speakers of other languages from Portland State University and has taught English for more than three years. She volunteered with the Beaverton Literacy Council and assists with tutor training at Portland Literacy Council. Along with a certificate, Skinner received a $100 cash prize and selected a free ORTESOL membership for next year.

For information about PCC ESOL classes, visit pcc.edu/esol.

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.

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The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board meeting will be held Thursday February 5, 2026 at Noon.

Location: This meeting will be held virtually and not at a physical location. To attend remotely, please use the meeting link provided in the agenda. For any questions, contact us at wwss@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957.

If you wish to address the WWSS Board, please contact wwss@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request the Public Comment Form and return it 48 hours prior to the day of the meeting. 

The meeting is accessible to people with disabilities and those who need qualified bilingual interpreters. Please contact WWSS@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request an interpreter for the hearing impaired, a bilingual interpreter, or for other accommodations should be made at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

The Board meeting agenda packet and additional information regarding the Willamette Water Supply Systems are available on the WWSS Commission website: 

https://www.tvwd.org/willamette-water-supply-system-commission/page/willamette-water-supply-system-commission

EXECUTIVE SESSION:  Prior to the regular board meeting, an executive session of the Board is called under ORS 192.660 (2)(e) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to negotiate real property transactions, under ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection and ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed, will be held 11:15 – 11:45 AM.

FOR MEDIA PLANNING PURPOSES

TODAY: Healthcare providers will pack the room at first hearing on bill to hold ICE accountable in Oregon’s hospitals 

Senate Health Care Committee Hearing on the Healthcare Without Fear Act - Senate Bill 1570-1 
Wednesday, Feb. 4 
3 p.m.  
Oregon State Capitol 
900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301 
Hearing Room D 

Livestream available on the Oregon State Legislature’s website.

WHAT: Frontline healthcare workers and state legislators are among those scheduled to testify in support of the Healthcare Without Fear Act – Oregon Senate Bill 1570-1 during its first hearing Feb. 4. If passed, the bill would require Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to follow the same standards as other law enforcement inside Oregon hospitals, protect patients’ and workers’ rights, and ensure all people can access healthcare without fearing for their health and safety.

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 4. 3 – 4:30 p.m. 

WHERE: Senate Committee on Health Care Meeting 

Hearing Room D in the Oregon State Capitol 
900 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301 
Livestream available here 

WHO: Nurses and healthcare workers from across the state, Oregon state legislators, legal experts and allies.   

WHY: Hospitals and clinics must be places of healing—not fear, intimidation, and detention. The Trump administration has begun targeting hospitals, clinics, schools, and places of worship for aggressive immigration enforcement actions—leading to violence, harassment, intimidation. 

Federal immigration officers recently shot two people in a hospital parking lot in Portland and arrested an entire family while they were trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER. Federal officers have also been bringing detainees from the Portland ICE facility and people injured in ICE actions to local hospitals for healthcare. They have not always followed standard hospital protocols. 

Federal agents have reportedly pressured doctors and nurses to skip recommended healthcare so they could discharge detained patients more quickly, refused to step away during private health consultations which include protected health information or sensitive medical exams, freely roamed patient hallways, and removed hospitalized patients against medical advice. These activities violate HIPAA, undermine trust in healthcare providers and our health system, and jeopardize patients’ care. 

The Healthcare Without Fear Act—Oregon Senate Bill 1570-1—prevents hospitals from being weaponized by federal agencies by requiring federal immigration officers to follow the same standards as other law enforcement in Oregon hospitals and clinics, protects patients’ and workers’ rights, and helps ensure all people can access healthcare without fearing for their health and safety. 

More information on the Healthcare without Fear Act can be found at OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear.

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Salem, Ore. – The State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) will meet via Zoom on February 19 and 20, 2026, to consider proposed nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed to YouTube.
 

Public comment on the proposed nominations or other items not on the agenda can be made online, during the meeting, or by written submission. Registration via Zoom is required to speak at the meeting. To view the full agenda, register to give comment during the meeting, or learn more about public comment options, please visit the commission web page: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx#sachp.
 

The SACHP is a nine-member governor-appointed citizen commission with credentials in many historic preservation-related fields, including archaeology, architectural history, historic architecture, anthropology, history, and museum management. Nominations recommended by the SACHP are forwarded to the National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. This effort aligns with the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan goal to increase the number and thematic diversity of Oregon properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It also supports the goals to include more voices and increase access to Oregon heritage that are part of the Oregon Heritage Plan.
 

The meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be made with at least 48 hours of advance notice by calling (503) 986-0690.
 

More information about the SACHP and the National Register of Historic Places process is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from SACHP coordinator Caitlyn Abrahms at 503-201-0454 or rahms@oprd.oregon.gov">caitlyn.abrahms@oprd.oregon.gov.

The Dale Beacock Memorial Sweepstakes Trophy Awarded to ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL, Portland, Oregon

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Clark College hosted three full days of big band jazz at the Annual Clark College Jazz Festival, where sixty middle and high school jazz ensembles from throughout Washington and Oregon performed in this year’s competition. Trophies were presented to the top three jazz ensembles for middle schools and division A through AAAA high schools. Individual outstanding musician and outstanding section awards were also presented at the end of each division’s preliminary competitions. 

At the end of Saturday’s program, the 2026 Dale Beacock Memorial Sweepstakes Trophy was awarded to Roosevelt High School, Portland, Oregon. The winning band will return for a special performance in the next year’s jazz festival held on the last weekend of January. This year, the 2025 Sweepstakes Band, Mountain View I High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Sam Ormson, was spotlighted on Saturday evening.

The 2026 outstanding musician awards were presented as following:

Middle School Silver Jazz Band finals results:

      1^st place – Leona Libby Middle School, West Richland, WA

      2^nd place – Beaumont Middle School, Portland, OR

      3^rd place – Sellwood Middle School, Portland, OR 

A Division Jazz Band finals results:       

      1^st place – South Whidbey High School, Langley, WA

      2^nd place – Seton Catholic High School, Vancouver, WA

      3^rd place – Eckstein Middle School, Seattle, WA

Outstanding Middle School Jazz Musician certificates were presented to:

      Ella Alcock – Chief Umtuch Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Scarlette Tenold – Chief Umtuch Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Cloe Barnes – Chief Umtuch Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Hudson Stose – Laurin Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Bella Wilson – Tukes Valley Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Jaxson Glover – Tukes Valley Middle School, Battle Ground, WA

      Bear Ricks – Hockinson Middle School, Brush Prairie, WA

      Keira Garrison – View Ridge Middle School, Ridgefield, WA

      Aurora Maayen – VSAA, Vancouver, WA

      Liam Derbin – VSAA, Vancouver, WA

      Joshua Walden – VSAA, Vancouver, WA

      Raul Becerril-Vargas – Wy’East Middle School, Vancouver, WA

      Heiver Mavarez Sivira – Wy’East Middle School, Vancouver, WA

      Natalie Lynch – Beaumont Middle School, Portland, OR

      Charlie Thrasher – Beaumont Middle School, Portland, OR

      Benny Zacks – Beaumont Middle School, Portland, OR

      Raphael Paglia-Brockman – Sellwood Middle School, Portland, OR

      Sam Loh-Menendez – Sellwood Middle School, Portland, OR

      Leo Camacho – Sellwood Middle School, Portland, OR

      Miles Kennedy – Leona Libby Middle School, West Richland, WA

      Andrew Kim – Leona Libby Middle School, West Richland, WA

      Emmy Black – Leona Libby Middle School, West Richland, WA

      Benjamin Larsen – Carmichael Middle School, Richland, WA

      Teagan Sams – Carmichael Middle School, Richland, WA

      Anthony Pfau – Carmichael Middle School, Richland, WA

Outstanding High School Musician awards for the A Division were presented to:

      Julia Vaughan – Eckstein Middle School, Seattle, WA

      Lucille Helms – South Whidbey High School, Langley, WA

      Liam Watkins– South Whidbey High School, Langley, WA

      Benjamin Jaimes – La Center High School, La Center, WA

      Jeremy Solis – Henrietta Lacks High School, Vancouver, WA

      Kyler Dixon – Seton Catholic High School, Vancouver, WA

Outstanding Middle School Jazz Section Awards were presented to:

      Outstanding Rhythm Section – Leona Libby Middle School

      Outstanding Saxophone Section – Beaumont Middle School

      Outstanding Trumpet Section – Sellwood Middle School

      Outstanding Trombone Section – Carmichael Middle School

Outstanding Section Awards for Division “A” were presented to:

      Outstanding Rhythm Section – Eckstein Middle School

      Outstanding Saxophone Section – Seton Catholic High School

      Outstanding Trumpet Section – South Whidbey High School

      Outstanding Trombone Section – South Whidbey High School 

Friday, January 30, 2026

AA and AAA Division High School Jazz Band finals results:

AA Division:  1^st place – Richland High School Jazz III, Richland, WA

               2^nd place – Mountain View High School Jazz II, Vancouver, WA

               3^rd place – Grant High School Jazz III, Portland, OR

AAA Division: 1^st place – Hockinson High School, Brush Prairie, WA

               2^nd place – Mt. Spokane High School Jazz I, Spokane, WA

               3^rd place – Mead High School Jazz II, Spokane, WA

Outstanding High School Musician Awards for the AA Division were presented to:

      Paxton Henry – Grant High School, Portland, OR

      Kelly Pfam – Richland High School, Richland, WA

      Benjamin Gomez – Richland High School, Richland, WA

      MJ Manano-Willis – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Asa Smith – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Asher Bolotski – Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle, WA

      Chet Martin – Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle, WA

      Zandy Owens – Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle, WA

      Luke Detert – Ingraham High School, Seattle, WA

      Asher Baughn – Ingraham High School, Seattle, W

      Levi Caldwell – Ridgefield High School, Ridgefield, WA

      Thomas Eustice – Ridgefield High School, Ridgefield, WA

      Furious Hill – Columbia River High School, Vancouver, WA

      Aiden Servino – Heritage High School, Vancouver, WA

      Cody Halley – Prairie High School, Vancouver, WA

      Brandon Felton - Prairie High School, Vancouver, WA

      Calle Rude – Evergreen High School, Vancouver, WA

      Byron Jimenez – Mountain View High School, Vancouver, WA

      Penelope Griffin – Mountain View High School, Vancouver, WA

      Reginald Kellon – Mountain View High School, Vancouver, WA

Outstanding High School Musician Awards for the AAA Division were presented to:

      Danyyil Zelyanovskyy – Lake Oswego High School, Lake Oswego, OR

      Finn Frost – Grant High School, Portland, OR

      Iris Ruthruff – Grant High School, Portland, OR

      Charlie Moore – Mead High School, Spokane, WA

      Brayden Craft – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Elliot Cong – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Daniel Affeldt – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Gavin Gregort – Mt. Spokane High School, Mead, WA

      Parker Jisa – Richland High School, Richland, WA

      Andrew Lee – Kamiak High School, Mukilteo, WA

      Sylvie Sylvander – Ingraham High School, Seattle, WA

      Nathan Doyle – Ingraham High School, Seattle, WA

      Beckett Van Dyck – Ingraham High School, Seattle, WA

      Sarah Boehi – Hockinson High School, Brush Prairie, WA

      Oliver Armstrong – Hockinson High School, Brush Prairie, WA

      Parker Dunn – Evergreen High School, Vancouver, WA

      Shane Ward – Evergreen High School, Vancouver, WA

      John Cannon – Heritage High School, Vancouver, WA

      Adrian Baraiac – Union High School, Vancouver, WA

      Enzo Sander – Union High School, Vancouver, WA

      George Powell – VSAA, Vancouver, WA

      Harry Rosenberg – VSAA, Vancouver, WA

Outstanding High School AA Jazz Section Awards were presented to:

      Outstanding Rhythm Section –  Mountain View High School Jazz II

      Outstanding Saxophone Section – Grant High School Jazz III

      Outstanding Trumpet Section – Mt. Spokane High School Jazz II

      Outstanding Trombone Section – Richland High School Jazz III

Outstanding High School AAA Jazz Section Awards were presented to:

      Outstanding Rhythm Section – Hockinson High School

      Outstanding Saxophone Section – Hockinson High School

      Outstanding Trumpet Section – Mt. Spokane High School

      Outstanding Trombone Section – Grant High School

Saturday, January 31, 2026

AAAA Division High School Jazz Band finals results:

       1^st Place – Garfield High School Jazz I, Seattle, WA

        2^nd Place – Roosevelt High School, Portland, OR

        3^rd Place – Mead High School Jazz I, Spokane, WA

Outstanding High School Musician Awards for the AAAA Division were presented to:

      Eliot Kim – Westview High School, Portland, OR

      Luka Schrock – Roosevelt High School, Portland, OR

      Zyler Modderman – Roosevelt High School, Portland, OR

      Sari Isreb – Grant High School, Portland, OR

      Elaina Stuppler – Lakeridge High School – Lake Oswego, OR

      Josue Sanzhez Badillo – A.C. Davis High School, Yakima, WA

      Bryan Sanchez-Martinez – A.C. Davis High School, Yakima, WA

      Sawyer Lohrmann – Bothell High School, Bothell, WA

      Kayla Ang – Bothell High School, Bothell, WA

      Sean Calkins – Bothell High School, Bothell, WA

      Lucjan Brant-Zawadski – Kamiak High School, Mukilteo, WA

      Ian Park – Kamiak High School, Mukilteo, WA

      Johnathan Yven – Henry Jackson High School, Everett, WA

      Lucas Adams – Henry Jackson High School, Everett, WA

      Andrew Bae– Henry Jackson High School, Everett, WA

      Ronan Scott – Richland High School, Richland, WA

      Cole Roxburgh – Richland High School, Richland, WA

      Kylie Forston – Lake Stevens High School, Lake Stevens, WA

      Cameron Proff – Lake Stevens High School, Lake Stevens, WA

      Greyson Stainbrook – Lake Stevens High School, Lake Stevens, WA

      Dominick Weckerly – Sherwood High School, Sherwood, WA

      Elliott Beck – Garfield High School, Seattle, WA

      Elijah King – Garfield High School, Seattle, WA

      Hank Sebnhg – Garfield High School, Seattle, WA

      Jace Samaha – Mead High School, Spokane, WA

      Valin Gabriel – Mead High School, Spokane, WA

      Caroline Beaulieu – Camas High School, Camas, WA

      Elijah Lenneck – Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground, WA

      Temperance Gillis – Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground, WA

      Natalie Costello – Union High School, Camas, WA

      Aubrey Grier – Prairie High School, Vancouver, WA

Outstanding High School Section Awards for the AAAA Division were presented to:

      Outstanding Rhythm Section – Roosevelt High School, Portland, OR

      Outstanding Saxophone Section – Lake Stevens High School Jazz I, Lake Stevens, WA

      Outstanding Trumpet Section – Richland High School Jazz I, Richland, WA

      Outstanding Trombone Section – Mead High School Jazz I, Spokane, WA

About the Annual Clark College Jazz Festival

Clark College Music program offers a dynamic curriculum in theory, performance, appreciation, and history. Designed for both music majors preparing for advanced study, and non-majors seeking a deeper cultural connection, the program blends academic rigor with hands-on performance opportunities. Faculty bring professional experience to guide students in building skills and confidence for future careers in the arts. Students can explore pursuits in concert band, jazz ensemble, orchestra, and choir. Learn more about Clark’s Music program.

For complete information about the Clark College Music Department concerts including the orchestra, concert band, jazz ensemble, and choirs, visit: http://www.clark.edu/campus-life/arts-events/music/music-concerts.

For a full roster of Clark College music events, visit www.clark.edu/cc/music. 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.  

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

City of West Linn Appoints Oddis Rollins as Chief of Police

WEST LINN, OR – February 3, 2026 – The City of West Linn has appointed Oddis Rollins as the City’s next Chief of Police, an internal promotion that reflects the strength and stability of the West Linn Police Department (WLPD). City Manager John Williams selected Chief Rollins after careful consideration, citing strong confidence in his leadership and the overall excellence of the department.

Chief Rollins brings more than 21 years of law enforcement experience to the role. He served for ten years as a Police Officer and Detective with the Tigard Police Department before joining the West Linn Police Department as a Sergeant in January 2015. He was promoted to Police Captain in August 2018 and has served as Interim Chief of Police since November 2025, following the retirement of former Chief Peter Mahuna.

“Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Oddis on a wide range of complex and important issues,” said John Williams, City Manager. “He brings deep professional knowledge, demonstrated operational expertise, and a clear commitment to ethical leadership. Chief Rollins has earned the trust of his colleagues, community partners, and residents, and I am confident he will continue to lead the Department with integrity, transparency, and respect.”

Chief Rollins has consistently demonstrated the core values of the West Linn Police Department, including service, accountability, professionalism, and strong community partnership. His appointment reflects the strong foundation already in place within the Department and the City’s commitment to continuity and internal leadership development.

“Promoting from within preserves organizational momentum and reinforces the culture of professionalism that defines the West Linn Police Department,” said the City Manager. “Our community is fortunate to be served by a highly dedicated and talented team of public safety professionals, and Chief Rollins is well-positioned to lead that team forward.”

Chief Rollins commented, “It is both a privilege and an honor to be entrusted with the opportunity to serve as the next Chief of the West Linn Police Department. I am proud to stand alongside a talented, professional, and dedicated team that selflessly serves our community every day. Together, I am excited for the opportunities ahead and look forward to seeing how the West Linn Police Department continues to grow, evolve, and serve our community in the years to come.”

Community members are invited to attend a public introduction with Chief Rollins on Tuesday, February 18, at 6:00 PM at the West Linn Public Library Main Reading Room. Chief Rollins will share his background, leadership philosophy, goals for the Department, and plans moving forward, followed by a question-and-answer session. Light refreshments will be provided.

The City of West Linn congratulates Chief Rollins on this well-deserved appointment and looks forward to his continued service to the community.

A formal swearing-in ceremony will be held on Wednesday, February 25, at 1:00 PM, also at the West Linn Public Library Main Reading Room. The public is welcome to attend.

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The Willamette River Water Coalition (WRWC) Board Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 5:15 p.m. 

This meeting will not be held at a physical location; the Board, staff, and members of the public will connect virtually. If you wish to join this virtual meeting, please contact ine.desau@tvwd.org">katherine.desau@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3078 by 12:00 p.m. on February 10, 2026.  Alternatively, you may connect via the link or phone number referenced at the top of the meeting agenda.

The Board meeting agenda packet is available here.  Additional information about the WRWC is available at: https://www.tvwd.org/wrwc

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio invites listeners to fall in love with radio romance this February with a special episode sampling two of Hollywood’s most beloved madcap romantic comedies: “It Happened One Night” and “The Philadelphia Story.” The episode premieres Monday, Feb. 16—just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Witty, sophisticated and sparkling with fast-paced dialogue, both stories are adapted from award-winning motion pictures and feature unforgettable performances by some of the greatest stars of the Golden Age. Together, they offer laughter, romance and subtle social commentary—perfect listening for the season of love.

The episode opens with “It Happened One Night,” adapted from the March 20, 1939 broadcast of “Lux Radio Theatre.” Originally released in 1934 and directed by Frank Capra, the film starred Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable and became the first motion picture to win all five major Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay. Re-Imagined Radio samples the adaptation, with Colbert and Cary Grant reprising their motion picture roles as a runaway socialite and the cynical reporter who becomes entangled in her journey home.

Fast-talking, charming and endlessly inventive, “It Happened One Night” is widely regarded as one of the greatest motion pictures ever made and a foundational example of the screwball comedy genre.

The program continues with “The Philadelphia Story,” drawn from a March 17, 1947 adaptation for “The Screen Guild Theater.” The story began as Philip Barry’s 1939 Broadway hit starring Katharine Hepburn and was soon adapted into a celebrated motion picture featuring Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart. Nominated for six Academy Awards, the film remains one of the finest examples of the “comedy of remarriage,” a popular genre of the 1930s and 1940s that cleverly navigated social taboos and the restrictions of the Motion Picture Production Code.

Beyond romance and humor, “The Philadelphia Story” reflects a growing cultural tension of its era, contrasting established upper-class privilege with an emerging middle class striving for opportunity and change.

“Listeners told us they wanted more romance,” said John. F. Barber, Re-Imagined Radio producer and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “So we went looking for radio stories many people may not have heard—or may not even know existed. These two adaptations, drawn from some of the most successful films of all time, create vivid images through exceptional writing and superb voice acting. We’re delighted to offer them, with love, for Valentine’s Day.”

About Re-Imagined Radio

Re-Imagined Radio explores classic and contemporary audio drama, reexamining radio’s rich storytelling traditions and reintroducing listeners to forgotten or overlooked works that continue to resonate today.

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.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – Six additional cases of measles have been reported in Clark County. The new cases are connected to the measles case announced by Clark County Public Health on Jan. 23. The new cases were exposed to measles in non-public locations. No additional public exposure locations have been identified for any of the cases in Clark County.

“We do not currently have any evidence that measles is spreading in public locations in Clark County,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director.

Here is additional information about the six new cases:

• Age
  • Younger than 18 years: five cases
  • 18 years and older: one case
• Vaccination status
  • Unvaccinated: five cases
  • Unverified: one case

The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine provides the best protection against measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97 percent effective at preventing measles. People who are not vaccinated or have not had measles in the past are at risk of getting sick if they are exposed to measles.

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left.

Anyone who believes they have symptoms of measles should call their health care provider before visiting the medical office to make a plan that avoids exposing others in the waiting room.

For more information about the local measles investigation, visit the Clark County Public Health measles investigation webpage.

A man was stabbed in Tigard Tuesday morning, leading to a large search for the suspect.

At 7:14 AM, a person called 911 to report the stabbing, which investigators believe happened in an area behind a row of businesses on SW Cascade Ave south of SW Scholls Ferry Road, near railroad tracks. The victim, a 33-year-old man, was taken to the hospital by ambulance with injuries that are believed to be serious.

Several officers responded to the scene, including a K-9 handler and drone operators. The area next to the railroad tracks also has several encampments and a creek running through it. Officer searched in the marshy, wooded area for hours searching for the suspect or any evidence that may be connected to the investigation.

The attached photos show how thermal imaging from a drone helped direct efforts in the search, as officers searched through trees, bushes, camps, debris and areas along the creek. 

A man in the area was briefly detained in connection with the investigation and was released. Detectives are working to gather more information related to the identity of the suspect in this case. 

Anyone with information that may be helpful in this case is asked to call the tips line at 503-718-COPS or send an email to tips@tigard-or.gov.

We’d like to thank our partner agencies for their assistance in responding to this call, including a K-9 handler from Hillsboro Police, an officer from King City Police and deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet on Tuesday, February 10 at 10:00 a.m. at the Department of State Lands building in Salem.

The Land Board will consider approval of the meeting minutes from December 3, 2025. All remaining agenda items are informational updates on:

• draft legislative concepts being developed by the Department of State Lands for the 2027 Legislative Session;
• an annual report from the Oregon Department of Forestry on management of the Common School Fund forest lands;
• the annual audit of the Common School Fund;
• the annual report on the state’s Real Property program; and
• a climate action spotlight highlighting DSL’s work aligned with Governor Kotek’s Executive Order 25-26, including updates on two climate resilience projects:
  • the Geologic Carbon Sequestration Project (in partnership with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries); and
  • the Elliott State Research Forest Carbon Project.

Meeting Details and Agenda

Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Department of State Lands

Land Board Room

775 Summer St. NE, Salem

The full meeting agenda and materials are available on the DSL website. The meeting will be livestreamed to the DSL YouTube channel.

The public may submit written testimony or sign up to provide spoken testimony (in person, by video, or phone) during the meeting. The meeting agenda indicates whether testimony will be accepted on an item. Advanced sign-up is required, and the deadline is 10 a.m. on Monday, February 9.

If you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact Arin Smith at 503-986-5224 or in.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov">arin.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov at least two working days prior to the meeting.

Visitors are not permitted to bring backpacks, bags, or large purses into the building prior to, during, or following Land Board meetings. Purses, medical bags, and diaper bags are permitted, but may be subject to inspection by the Oregon State Police.

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

###

www.oregon.gov/dsl

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Veterans Center of Excellence at Clark College, in collaboration with the Suicide Prevention Team from the Portland Veterans Affairs, will present Awareness to Action Series: Suicide Prevention is Everybody’s Business, a free multi-session workshop series beginning Feb. 10, focused on education, prevention, and community action.

Designed to increase awareness, build practical skills, and empower participants to take an active role in suicide prevention, the series is grounded in veteran suicide prevention and open to community members. The workshops offer tools that are applicable across diverse populations. 

The series reflects Clark College’s commitment to fostering a compassionate, informed, and supportive campus and community. By combining national strategies, evidence-based practices, and open dialogue, the workshops emphasize that suicide prevention is everybody’s business.

Event Information

Location: Gaiser Hall, Room 213, from 3 pm - 4 pm on Clark College main campus

Cost: FREE - there is no fee to attend

Registration: Register for the series here. When registering, you can indicate if you would like to attend virtually; a virtual link will be shared closer to the event date with your registration email.

Driving directions and parking maps are available at www.clark.edu/maps.

All Are Welcome: Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds 

Accommodation: If you need an accommodation due to a disability to participate in this event, please contact hr@clark.edu or 360-992-2432. Please make requests as early as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.

Workshop Schedule — Register for the series here.

Tuesday, Feb. 10 - Overview of Veteran Suicide and the National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide: 

This workshop will review the National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide and how it is implemented nationwide. Participants will learn how to help prevent veteran suicide in their communities and how to access available crisis support resources.

Tuesday, March 17 - Lethal Means Safety — Safe Storage of Firearms and Medications:

This session will explore why and how increasing time and distance between a person in suicidal crisis and access to lethal means can significantly reduce suicide risk and save lives.

Tuesday, April 14 - Safety Plans — When and How to Have One: 

Participants will learn how to create a Safety Plan, a practical tool that identifies coping strategies and sources of support. Safety Plans can help individuals manage suicidal thoughts by providing structure and support during moments of crisis.

Tuesday, May 12 - Postvention — Support After a Suicide: 

This workshop will introduce suicide postvention—an often overlooked but critical component of suicide prevention. Postvention focuses on providing immediate and ongoing support to individuals and communities impacted by suicide loss and plays a vital role in healing.

About Clark’s Veterans Center of Excellence

The Clark College Veterans Center of Excellence is dedicated to making Clark College the first choice for veterans, active duty, and military-affiliated students. The center engages, supports, and empowers students to achieve their educational and professional goals by coordinating comprehensive services that address academic, financial, physical, and social needs. Offerings include tutoring, academic supplies, quiet study spaces, a computer lab with printers, practical workshops, and more. Learn more at Veterans Center of Excellence (clark.edu).

About Clark College

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students, including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, and multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually abusing two minors on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Harold Charley, 39, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release.

According to court documents, in January 2024, Charley, a prior sex offender, engaged in sexual abusive contact with two minor victims between the ages of 12 and 16 over the course of several weeks on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

On September 23, 2025, Charley was charged by superseding information with two counts of abusive sexual contact.

On October 7, 2025, Charley pleaded guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Warm Springs Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela Paaso.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

Salem, Oregon – In the first round of FY2026 Career Opportunity Program grant awards, the Oregon Arts Commission and The Ford Family Foundation have awarded $92,278 to 29 artists for career development projects.

The awards include $43,842 from the Oregon Arts Commission for all artistic disciplines and $48,436 in supplemental funding for 14 established Oregon visual artists, visual arts writers and curators of visual arts through a partnership with The Ford Family Foundation’s Visual Arts Program. Individual grants range from $363 to $8,000.

Career Opportunity grants support individual Oregon artists by enabling them to take advantage of timely opportunities that enhance their artistic careers. Most grants support the artists’ participation in residencies, exhibitions or performance opportunities.

“The Career Opportunity Grant provides unique experiences that can truly propel an artist’s career—offering chances for learning, connection and professional growth,” said Arts Commissioner Jenny Stadler, who led one of two review panels. “It’s always inspiring to see the incredible work of artists across the state.”

The Ford Family Foundation funds are available to established Oregon visual artists who are producing new work in the fields of contemporary art and craft.

“Artists are anchors of Oregon towns and cities,” said Kara Carlisle, president and CEO of The Ford Family Foundation. “By investing in artists’ research, training, dedicated work time and new exhibition opportunities, we’re not just amplifying their careers, we’re reinforcing the cultural fabric of our communities. We’re proud to join the Arts Commission in this shared commitment to impact.”

FY2026 Career Opportunity Program round one grant award recipients are:

Elizabeth Arzani, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support a solo exhibition at Pendleton Center for the Arts Gallery for the month of June in 2026.

Christian Orellana Bauer, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support travel and/or required fees to participate in a residency at the Vermont Studio Center (VSC) in December of 2025 in Johnson, Vermont.

Heather Lee Birdsong, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $2,500

To support framing and labor expenses for an exhibition in March 2026 at Russo Lee Gallery in Portland, which will be her first solo exhibition at a commercial gallery.

Kathleen Caprario, Springfield

The Ford Family Foundation, $363

To support her participation in the exhibition, “Spaciousness of Change,” at Scalehouse Gallery in Bend, Oregon, July 3, 2026 - August 28, 2026.

Jennie Castle, Albany

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support a 2026 Art/Sci Awarded Residency at PLAYA in Summer Lake, Oregon. Specific dates have not yet been announced, but all possible dates fall within the opportunity grant window.

Nicholas Christopher, Beaverton

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support Christopher’s securing an original audio composition by Don Flores and compensating a group of Street Style Dancers from all over the Pacific Northwest to share a unique style of Waving & Popping, in collaboration with Congruency Dance Collective.

Twig Cosby, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $1,354

To support Cosby’s career development and art practice as a wood-fire ceramic artist in a year-long, live-in residency at Pleasant Hill Pottery in Lane County beginning October 2025. Cosby will focus on material research to develop form and surface.
 

Lori Damiano, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $793

To support Damiano’s artist residency at the Praxis Digital Weaving Lab in Cleveland, Ohio, from February 3-15, 2026. Damiano will be accessing a TC2 digital jacquard loom for the first time.

Leah Denny, Beavercreek

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $1,680

To support a solo exhibit of Denny’s sculptural work at the Alexander Gallery of Clackamas Community College during the dates of March 31, 2026 through April 30, 2026.

Michelle Diaz, Albany

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support travel expenses for attending the Superstars Writing Seminars in Colorado and the Life, The Universe & Everything (LTUE) symposium in Utah, both held in February 2026, to enhance Diaz’s writing education and connect with industry professionals.

Liza Faktor, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support Faktor’s attendance of “Roots Assembly: Forests, Rewilding and Ways of Being,” a curatorial program examining the vital role of forest ecosystems and rewilding in preventing climate collapse.

Marcus Fischer, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $4,893

To support the first exhibition of Fischer’s work at NOON Projects in Los Angeles, California, from April to late May, 2026.

Sylvia Friday, Alsea

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support Friday’s career as a traditional willow basket maker and educator. Friday will travel to Europe in Autumn 2026, to study with master weavers in Poland, England and Germany.

Ebony Frison, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $5,000

To support the creation of new work for the 2026 Oregon Biennial, drawing from Frison’s personal archive, family’s archive and the Forgotten Frontlines archive, using photogravure, painting and prose as primary mediums.

Suzanne Haag, Eugene

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support Haag’s participation in Positioning Ballet Foundation’s International Forum for Future Artistic Leaders in Ballet/Dance held November 7-9, 2025, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Allie Hankins, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,148

To support the performing of an excerpt of Hankins’ solo “By My Own Hand, Part 4: MELODY,” in April 2026 at Judson Memorial Church as part of the long-running Movement Research series.

Sabina Haque, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $5,000

To support participation in PLAYA’s inaugural Wildfire + Water: Artists and Scientists Adapting to Change Residency, a year-long, artist-led program in Lake County, Oregon, culminating in an art exhibit addressing urgent environmental issues.

Stephen Hayes, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support Hayes’ inclusion in the 2026 Oregon Contemporary Artist’s Biennial exhibition, which will run from April 1, 2026 through July 5, 2026 and be presented at OX-Oregon Contemporary Institution.

Misael Hernandez, Springfield

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support Hernandez’s participation in Anderson Ranch’s Artist-in-Residence Program taking place February 4 through March 11, 2026.

Leslie Hickey, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $1,740

To support the remainder of Hickey’s fellowship at the New York Public Library’s Picture Collection, with the term ending on March 31, 2026.

Conrad Kaczor, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support Kaczor’s GlogauAIR artist residency in Berlin, Germany, in winter 2026, where he will create and share an interdisciplinary artwork internationally and return to Portland to present the finished work with a public engagement component.

Kristan Kennedy, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $6,000

To support expenses related to an exhibition opportunity at NOON Projects in Los Angeles, California, opening in April 2026. The exhibition is a two-person show featuring Kennedy’s work alongside that of Marcus Fischer.

Rainen Knecht, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation, $5,000

To support the production of paintings with artist-made frames and the costs associated with travel in order to attend the opening of Knecht’s first out-of-state solo exhibition in eight years, this spring in San Francisco.

Horatio Law, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support the creation of “John Day Tango: An Oregon Love Story,” a multimedia project that involves shadow-play, video projection and live performance, to be exhibited at the Portland Chinatown Museum from April-July, 2026.

Astra Lincoln, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $1,500

To support Lincoln’s participation in the competitive, invite-only Centrum Artist in Residency Program in January, 2026.

Edward Lopez, Ashland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support a three-month residency in Sevilla, Spain, in early 2026 to study cante jondo at the Fundación Cristina Heeren, expanding Lopez’s vocal artistry while weaving his professional practice with the deep currents of his Andalusian heritage.

John Niekrasz, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission, $2,000

To support the travel, lodging and technical assistance necessary for the exhibition of Niekrasz’s new 45-minute sound-art composition for Elastic Arts Foundation’s 16-channel sound system in Chicago, Illinois, in May 2026.

Keith Van Norman, Corvallis

Oregon Arts Commission, $1,307

To support a meaningful step in Van Norman’s career, he will moderate a panel discussion, display his print “Rhapsody in Gray” and conduct a printmaking demonstration. Van Norman will also network with research, industry and community leaders at the State of the Coast Conference in November 2025.

Emily Wilson, Gardiner

The Ford Family Foundation, $3,000

To support attending and exhibiting at the 2026 National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) Conference in Detroit, where Wilson will mentor artists, sustain professional relationships and expand gallery representation.

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The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. 

The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: www.oregonartscommission.org.

The February Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Work Session will be held February 3, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting remotely or in person, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on February 3, 2026

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

About TVWD 

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

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

TROUTDALE, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is inviting youth ages 6–17 to share their creativity and connection to nature through the Youth Audio Story Contest.

Oregon’s landscapes have long inspired stories, from rushing rivers to old-growth forests. This contest encourages young park visitors to add their voices to that tradition by submitting original, youth-narrated audio stories inspired by the outdoors.

The contest highlights the Columbia River Gorge, known for its beauty, cultural significance, and ecological richness. Stories may reflect real experiences, such as a favorite trail or a wildlife encounter, or imaginative adventures set in Oregon’s natural spaces.

The selected winning story will be featured as part of the Accessible Gorge Audio Trails project on the Accessible Gorge website, an online resource that aims to break down informational barriers for visitors and residents with disabilities. The winning story will also be available to listen to via a QR code at select trailheads in the Columbia River Gorge, offering visitors a unique youth perspective.

Entries may be submitted individually or in groups of up to three. A parent or legal guardian must submit the entry.

Key Dates
• Submission deadline: Friday, February 20 at 11:59 p.m. PST
• Winner notified by email, and the winning entry will be announced on the Oregon State Parks’ website: February 28

For more information about the Youth Audio Story Contest or the Accessible Gorge Audio Trails project, visit the contest webpage.

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from January 25 to January 28, 2026, two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the sample collected on January 25 and one oocyst was detected in the sample collected on January 26. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on January 27 or January 28. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run drinking water source on January 21, 2026.

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/CryptoResults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will replace five Akebono flowering cherry trees from State Capitol State Park during the week of February 3, 2026, as part of a long-term tree management plan. Five new Akebono cherry trees will be planted to replace them, and existing trees will be pruned to encourage new growth this spring.

The work is part of a 20-year strategy for the North Mall of State Capitol State Park that focuses on maintaining a healthy, resilient and safe canopy over time. The trees scheduled for removal were identified through this planning process as having reached the end of their natural lifespan, with age-related decline and cumulative damage from past winters.

The replacement Akebono cherry trees are already well established, standing approximately 14 feet tall and measuring at least three inches in diameter at breast height. They are about 8-years old and high-grafted to allow people to walk beneath the canopy as the trees continue to mature.

“We’re planting the trees during late winter while they are dormant, which gives them the best opportunity to establish strong root systems before spring arrives,” said Valley Region Operation Manager, Kevin Strandberg. “We expect the new trees to bloom this March and continue to grow and flourish for decades.”

The park will remain open during the removal and replanting work. The new trees are expected to live 35 to 40 years. Tree replacements are intentionally staggered over time to preserve the character of the North Mall while ensuring long-term continuity of the cherry tree canopy.

XXX

Salem, Ore. – With a Northwest team in the Super Bowl, wagers on the biggest game of the year are now available through the Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook.

For this year’s match up of the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, DraftKings Sportsbook is offering more than 1,000 prop bets. “Prop bets” often fall outside of traditional game plays and range from who wins the coin toss to the color of the Gatorade dumped on the winning coach. A new wager being offered this year is whether the coin toss winner will defer or receive. A few other examples offered include:

• Which quarterback throws the most passing yards?
• Which team scores first?  
• Who will be the game’s MVP?

Oregon Lottery debuted sports betting in October 2019 and has seen more than $3.5 billion wagered since its launch. Oregon Lottery’s Sports Betting Products Manager Kerry Hemphill believes interest will be high for Oregonians with our neighbor to the north playing.

“I expect having a ‘local’ team in the game will boost excitement and provide a connection for fans in Oregon that we haven’t seen in years,” she said.

During last year’s Super Bowl, Oregon players placed a record 456,000 bets through DraftKings Sportsbook, with wagers totaling $8.2 million. The biggest win of the day was from a customer in Eugene who placed a $25 bet on a 13 leg multi-sport parlay resulting in a $49,370 win.

You must be 21 years or older to place a sports wager in Oregon. Oregon Lottery suggests players use safer play tools such as My Stats and My Budget Builder, within the DraftKings app, to get clearer insights into their play and tailor spending to match their personal preferences and goals. For more information on making changes to your gambling and other helpful resources, visit Oregon Problem Gambling Resource at opgr.org or call 1-877-MYLIMIT to chat or text with a certified counselor. Help is free, confidential and it works.

To play Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook or for more detail about wagers offered during the game, go to https://www.oregonlottery.org/sports/.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned $17.8 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

The Portland Office of Violence Prevention is now accepting applications for the 2026 Spring Break Youth Safety Initiative Sponsorship to help reduce youth violence: principally, gun violence through collaborative community-based prevention efforts during Spring Break (March 21st – March 29th).

A total of $180,000 is available for programs and activities with organizations able to apply for up to $15,000. Awards may vary based on the scope of work and number of community members served.

The deadline to apply is February 18, 2026 at 12 p.m.

The sponsorship is open to organizations located in the states of Oregon and Washington, providing services within the City of Portland and Multnomah County.

Examples of programs supported by the grant include:

• Preventative programs, workshops, camps, and events;
• Flexible funds for direct community assistance and services;
• Youth and adult mediation & mentoring programs;
• Arts & Culture or Recreational Violence preventative programs;
• Workforce development or job training and placement; and
• Athletic, sport, educational, leisure, and other activities.

For more information about the grant and instructions on how to apply, visit https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/springbreak or contact ovp@portlandoregon.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Event Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM; discussion begins at 6:30 PM
Location: Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
Cost: Free; registration recommended
More information at cchmuseum.org

Produced by: NAACP Vancouver Chapter 1139-B in collaboration with the Clark County Historical Museum

NAACP and Clark County Historical Museum Present

Where Faith Meets Freedom: Jesus, the Cross, and Liberation

VANCOUVER, WA — In observance of Black History Month, the NAACP Vancouver Chapter 1139-B and the Clark County Historical Museum invite the community to a facilitated conversation: Where Faith Meets Freedom: Jesus, the Cross, and Liberation on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

This free public program centers on two foundational works of Black theology: The Cross and the Lynching Tree by the Rev. Dr. James H. Cone and Jesus and the Disinherited by the Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman. Both titles are part of the NAACP and Clark County Historical Museum’s joint reading list and offer powerful frameworks for understanding faith as a force for dignity, resistance, and liberation.

Together, these texts confront the enduring realities of racial violence, oppression, and suffering while affirming the spiritual strength that emerges from struggle. Cone draws a direct connection between the crucifixion of Jesus and the history of lynching in America, urging readers to understand the cross through the lived experiences of Black suffering and survival. Thurman speaks to those pushed to the margins, presenting Jesus as a source of courage, nonviolence, and hope for those whose backs are against the wall.

The conversation will be guided by local faith and community leaders, including Rev. Michael Jones Jr., Vice President of the NAACP Vancouver Chapter; Rev. Dr. Joyce Smith, Pastor of Community AME Zion Church in Vancouver; and Pastor Byron Harris of Vancouver Heights United Methodist Church. Together with attendees, the panel will explore how these works speak to one another, where faith and freedom intersect, and why their messages remain deeply relevant today—personally, spiritually, and socially.

Registration is recommended, as space is limited. This event is free and open to the public. More information at www.cchmuseum.org.

Organizer:
Rev. Michael Jones Jr.
Vice President, NAACP Vancouver Chapter
esident@naacpvancouverwa.org">vicepresident@naacpvancouverwa.org

Salem, Ore.— Residents using Liberty Road S will see a new traffic signal in use Feb. 3 at Davis Road S. This new signal will make the intersection safer for drivers turning left onto either road, especially during peak travel times.

Drivers should be aware of the new traffic pattern when traveling in this area. During the signal activation, pedestrians and motorists should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic control signage and workers.

The need for a traffic signal at Liberty Road S and Davis Road S was identified in traffic studies that were required from some adjacent housing developments. These studies showed a signal was needed and was warranted according to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The MUTCD is a publication of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration that defines the standards used by road managers nationwide to install and maintain traffic control devices.

Funding for the traffic signal comes from the 2022 Safety & Livability Bond, System Development Charges and funds collected from recent developments in the area for their share of the intersection improvement costs.

In November 2022, Salem residents approved a $300 million community improvement bond. This bond will fund a 10-year plan to make various improvements in the city. The selected projects aim to improve streets, sidewalks, bike paths, parks and public facilities throughout the city. 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Vancouver Fire Department Quickly Puts Out RV Fire

Vancouver, WA — February 2, 2026 

The Vancouver Fire Department responded to a fire in a travel trailer being used as a permanent residence in the 10400 block of NE 53rd Street.

Firefighters acted quickly to put out the fire and protect nearby trailers, preventing it from spreading.

Crews arrived to find the trailer on fire and immediately began working to control the situation while checking surrounding units for damage. Additional fire crews assisted to ensure the fire was fully contained and nearby trailers remained safe. 

The fire was brought under control by 10:02 a.m. No injuries were reported. One person was displaced, and the occupant declined medical evaluation. Damage to the trailer is considered major.

The Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was caused by an electrical issue. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the displaced occupant, and all Vancouver Fire Department units returned to service shortly after.

Vancouver Fire Department commends the quick response and teamwork of all personnel involved, which helped limit damage and protect the surrounding community.

Estacada, OR — The Estacada School District is celebrating a major milestone, with a 92.2% four-year graduation rate, far exceeding the Oregon state average and reflecting a decade of sustained improvement for students across the district. Just ten years ago, the district’s graduation rate stood at 38.5%. Since then, Estacada has more than doubled its graduation rate, underscoring the impact of focused academic improvement, expanded student supports, and a commitment to closing gaps for historically underserved student populations.

“Reaching a 92.2% graduation rate is a testament to the hard work of our students and staff and the strength of our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Ryan Carpenter. “This didn’t happen overnight. It reflects years of intentional work to improve instruction, increase engagement, and create multiple pathways for students to succeed.”

Career-connected learning continues to play an important role in student success. Students participating in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs graduated at rates well above the district average, reinforcing the value of hands-on, relevant learning experiences that connect school to future careers.

While the district is proud of its progress, leaders emphasize that the work is ongoing. Estacada School District remains focused on sustaining gains and continuing to improve outcomes for students who face additional barriers to graduation. “Our goal is to provide meaningful outcomes for students,” Superintendent Carpenter added. “We will continue to refine our systems and supports so every student leaves our schools prepared for their next step, whether that’s a career or college.”

The City of Salem is aware of reports of federal law enforcement use of force against Salem residents. The reports allege racial profiling, detention, property damage and injuries to Salem residents by masked teams of federal agents. The City condemns any illegal use of force and any violation of residents’ constitutional rights.

We urge residents to know their rights and take lawful steps to protect themselves: Know Your Rights: Immigrants' Rights - ACLU of Oregon.

The City recognizes that these reports have caused fear, anxiety, and distress within the Salem community, and we share in residents’ concern for the safety and well-being of all affected. We join calls for the State of Oregon and federal government to reassure and protect residents from these types of actions by federal law enforcement.

In alignment with City Council, we encourage Oregon’s federal delegation to address: (a) a comprehensive approach to solve our broken immigration system in order to provide a realistic pathway to citizenship for all aspiring Americans, and (b) protect our immigrant and other vulnerable communities from the unlawful and unnecessary actions being taken by federal agents in the name of immigration enforcement.

What to do if you witness a crime: If you are the victim of or witness a crime, you are encouraged to call 911 to report the incident. Salem Police will respond to active scenes and attempt to deescalate the situation. If an incident involves federal law enforcement in performance of their duties, the U.S. Constitution restricts the City and police from interfering with federal law enforcement. Investigation and potential referral of criminal charges involving federal law enforcement is under the jurisdiction of federal authorities.

Residents may contact the Department of Homeland Security, Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties online at: https//www.dhs.gov/file-civil-rights-complaint, or the FBI at: Electronic Tip Form | FBI or Portland — FBI.

Guidance from State law: Under Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise law, the City does not and is prohibited from cooperating with federal enforcement of immigration law. Neither the City, nor the Salem Police Department, cooperate or assist the federal government’s enforcement of immigration law. The Salem City Council has reaffirmed the City’s commitment to Oregon Sanctuary Promise law and in recognition of the impacts of the federal government’s actions, has declared a state of emergency in Salem.

Guidance from Federal law: Under the U.S. Constitution and federal law, local law enforcement is also prohibited from interfering with federal officers in the performance of their duties, even if it is alleged or believed that the federal officers are violating the law or infringing on someone’s constitutional rights.

Krishna Namburi, City Manager
Dan Atchison, City Attorney
City of Salem, Oregon
 

Salem Police Incident Report: Thursday, January 29

• The call, from the daughter of the involved woman, was received thirty minutes after the incident had ended. There was no active scene for officers to respond to or intervene in. 
• The complainant told dispatch her mother would not speak directly with anyone immediately after the incident. The dispatcher asked the caller whether her mother needed medical assistance. The daughter stated that she would be taking her mother to the hospital and did not request medical assistance or transport from the City. 

Subsequent Follow Up

Salem Police Response Procedure

Federal Oversight

What to do if you witnessed this incident?

Woodburn, OR:  The Woodburn City Council has released several key documents as part of its continued commitment to transparency and open communication with the community. These materials are intended to ensure residents have access to the most current information regarding the City’s role in federal immigration enforcement and the use of public safety technology.

The released documents include:

• Two legal opinions related to the City’s role and responsibilities in response to federal immigration enforcement, including guidance on Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Law

• An Impact Assessment of the City’s Flock Safety Camera system

In response to community concerns and while a comprehensive review is underway, the City disabled the Flock Safety Camera system in November of last year.

“These documents are being shared to provide clarity, address community questions, and support informed public dialogue,” said Scott Derickson, Woodburn City Manager.  “Transparency remains a priority as the City continues to evaluate policies and practices that impact our community.”

All documents are available for public review on the City of Woodburn’s website at: https://www.woodburn-or.gov/community-services/page/immigration-resources-recursos-de-inmigraci%C3%B3n

Legacy Oregon Burn Center hosts free Safety Fair and Chili Cook-Off during National Burn Awareness Week

(PORTLAND, Ore., February 2, 2026) - Burn risks exist in every living space, from homes to apartments to temporary shelters. During National Burn Awareness Week, February 1-7, 2026, the Legacy Oregon Burn Center (OBC) will host the second annual Safety Fair and Chili Cook-off. The event aims to raise awareness about preventing burn injuries and home fires. First responders and healthcare teams will also compete for the title of chili champion. The public is invited to this family-friendly free event.

Legacy Oregon Burn Center Safety Fair & Chili Cook‑Off
Date: Sunday, February 7, 2026
Location: Portland Expo Center, 2060 N. Marine Drive, Portland, OR 97217
Time: Noon–3 p.m. (please no pets)

Most burns are preventable. “About 90% of burn injuries happen in the home,” said Erin Horrax, RN, nurse educator for the OBC. “One third of our patients are children and 80% of those patients are being scalded by hot liquids.” Horrax explains that spilling a hot cup of tea or coffee on the skin or exposure to excessively hot tap water can result in burns that require months of treatment, extensive surgeries, and long hospital stays and afterward, patients may experience years of healing, therapy, and repeat surgeries.

Horrax offers some key prevention tips:  

• Kitchen Safety: Create a three-foot kid free safety zone around all cooking. Always supervise children around microwaves. Store flammable items away from heat, turn pot handles inward, and never leave cooking food unattended.
• Bathroom Precautions: Set your water heater below 120°F and supervise children during baths.
• Sleeping Areas: Extinguish candles before going to sleep and keep heat sources away from fabrics.
• General Home Safety: Test smoke alarms regularly, charge devices safely, and store chemicals out of reach.

                                                                                 ###

About Legacy Health
Legacy Health is a local, nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services – from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children’s care and advanced medical centers – to care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. For more information, visit www.legacyhealth.org.

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (Feb. 2, 2026) – On Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 7:20 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a report of a person down on the northbound shoulder of Interstate 5 near the Exit 24 on ramp.

The preliminary investigation indicated the pedestrian, Anthony Jonathan Byam (34) of Phoenix, had been struck by a vehicle that did not stop. Byam was declared deceased at the scene. 

An investigation into the hit-and-run crash is ongoing.  

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

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Fire District 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.

February 2, 2026

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831  

Black Youth Suicide Prevention Coalition recruiting for Adult Advisory Council

SALEM, Ore. - The Black Youth Suicide Prevention Coalition is now accepting applications for the Adult Advisory Council to support youth-led suicide prevention and mental health advocacy. Adult advisors collaborate with and support the coalition’s Youth Wellness Consultants by providing guidance, sharing resources and helping to shape culturally specific, community-based prevention efforts. Adults with lived experience, professional expertise, or strong community relationships are encouraged to apply.  Applications will close Feb. 28. This role is voluntary.

To apply, submit an application by Feb. 28, 2026.

CARES Northwest Expands Services in Washington County

Relocation to the new Family Peace Center will triple trauma therapy capacity and double child abuse assessment services

PORTLAND, ORE February 2, 2026— CARES Northwest is pleased to announce expansion of its services in Washington County with the relocation of its existing clinic to the new Family Peace Center of Washington County. The Family Justice Center of Washington County purchased a 64,000‑square‑foot building at 1100 NE Compton Drive in Hillsboro to house the Family Peace Center, where CARES NW will offer expanded child abuse evaluation and support services.

CARES NW serves more than 2,500 children annually and is a nationally recognized children’s advocacy center dedicated to the treatment and prevention of child abuse.

The new space is a 10,000 square foot, state-of-the-art center that was designed with children and families in mind, and always with a focus on trauma-informed care. Thanks to this larger clinical footprint, CARES NW will double their child abuse evaluation capacity and triple the counseling capacity in Washington County.

“CARES NW has been supporting Washington County children and families for more than 36 years,” said Jenny Gilmore‑Robinson, executive director of CARES NW. “Until now, most children have been cared for at our clinic in NE Portland on the Legacy Emanuel campus. Recognizing the importance of serving children in their home communities, we’ve partnered with the Family Justice Center to co‑locate in their larger new facility in Hillsboro. This move is a major step forward in bringing hope and healing to more Washington County children, and we are honored to work alongside the Family Justice Center and our partner agencies.”

By co‑locating with leading nonprofit partners serving survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, CARES NW will make it easier for families affected by multiple types of violence to receive comprehensive care closer to home.

“Equally importantly, the families we serve will benefit from our stronger working relationships with domestic violence and sexual assault partners of the Family Justice Center,” said Gilmore-Robinson. “Instead of a phone call away, these amazing organizations will now be as close as an elevator ride or a walk down the hall, making warm handoffs and collaboration seamless for our shared clients.” The new clinic was a community-funded project.

The Family Peace Center will be the first of its kind in Oregon to provide services for survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault in one centralized location.

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About Legacy Health
Legacy Health is a local, nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services – from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children’s care and advanced medical centers – to care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. For more information, visit www.legacyhealth.org.

(Salem, Ore.) – The first quarterly meeting of 2026 for the Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will be held virtually on Wednesday, March 4. 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 events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/6894d639-c267-4f15-a99e-424eff10a459@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.

Oaks Park Celebrates Valentine’s Weekend with Skate Date Package and Lover’s Lane Love Notes

PORTLAND, Ore. (February 2, 2026) — Oaks Park invites couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with a nostalgic and playful twist through its Valentine’s Skate Date Package, available February 13 and 14, 2026, during the 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. Open Skate sessions. The limited-time offering combines classic roller skating, shared dining, and a festive romantic atmosphere in one of Portland’s most iconic destinations.

Designed for first dates, longtime partners, and everyone in between, the Skate Date Package sets the mood for a charming evening of retro romance on the rink. Couples can enjoy hand-in-hand skating during couples-only moments while soaking up the Valentine’s vibe under the lights of the historic Oaks Park Roller Skating Rink.

The $49.95 Skate Date Package for two includes:

• Two Open Skate session admissions
• Two standard skate rentals
• Two Rick’s Cafe meal vouchers
• Two drink tickets

For guests who prefer to skate without the full package, skating-only tickets are available for $13 per person. The Skate Date Package is available online only for a limited time at www.oakspark.com/valentine.

In addition to the rink-side romance, Oaks Park is offering couples and families a lasting way to mark the occasion through its Lover’s Lane Plaque Campaign. The campaign invites the community to commemorate meaningful relationships with a custom-engraved plaque permanently installed along Oaks Park’s beloved Lover’s Lane walkway, creating a “permanent love note” that supports the preservation of the historic park and its nationally recognized roller rink.

“Whether it’s a first date, a 50th anniversary, or a family tradition passed down through generations, Oaks Park has always been a place where love shows up in many forms,” said Emily MacKay, Oaks Park Marketing and Events Director. “These plaques let people leave a piece of their story in a place that has meant so much to so many for more than a century.”

For more than 100 years, Oaks Park has been a joyful, multi-generational destination where families gather, friends reconnect, and new love stories begin. This Valentine’s season, the park invites the community to celebrate both the moment and the memory, from skating hand-in-hand on the rink to leaving a lasting message along Lover’s Lane.

To participate, donors can visit www.oakspark.com/love to customize their message and complete a tax-deductible donation through Oaks Park’s secure online form.

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COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. (Feb. 2, 2026) – On Friday, January 30, 2026, at 6 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Highway 30 near milepost 19 in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Dodge Ram 2500, operated by Ethan Anthony Goss (22) of St. Helens, was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 near Scappoose when it struck a pedestrian crossing the highway. The pedestrian was wearing dark clothing in an unlit area of the highway.

The pedestrian, Sherri Lynn Shaver (69) of Eagle Creek, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge Ram (Goss) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Scappoose Fire District, Columbia County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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

For Immediate Release: Feb. 2, 2026

Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov;

Gail Krumenauer, state employment economist; umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">gail.k.krumenauer@employ.oregon.gov

2025 in Review: Job Losses and Rising Unemployment

Oregon’s labor force grows slightly despite negative turn in job growth

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon saw job growth in a handful of sectors and experienced a small increase in its labor force, but overall, the state lost jobs in 2025 as the unemployment rate rose nearly a point to 5.2%.

In reviewing the year, state employment economist Gail Krumenauer noted job gains were concentrated in private health care and social assistance, but rising jobless workers resulted in the highest unemployment rate – outside a recession or recovery period – in a decade.

Looking ahead, Oregon’s Office of Economic Analysis expects a rebound to slow job gains in 2026.

Visit QualityInfo.org for the full Year in Review article.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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LINN COUNTY, Ore. (Feb. 2, 2026) – On Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 11 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 22 near milepost 68 in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Hyundai IONIQ, operated by Curtiss Joseph Scholl (55) of Sisters, was traveling westbound on Highway 22 near Idanha when it attempted to pass another vehicle. For an unknown reason, the operator lost control of the vehicle and struck a tree.

The vehicle’s passenger, Kellie Jay Scholl (53) of Sisters, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator (Curtiss Scholl) was extricated from the vehicle and transported to an area hospital with injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Detroit/Idanha Fire Department, Lyons Ambulance, Stayton Ambulance, 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 nation’s 2026 tax filing season is officially open. Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to file their 2025 tax returns and free help is available.

Filing your taxes could mean you could get money back – even if you don’t have to file or don’t have a Social Security number. Plus, this year you could get your share Oregon’s $1.4 billion kicker refund.

You could get money back if:

• You work
• You have children younger than 6 and you earn $30,000 or less
• You paid more in tax withholding than required.

Free tax is filing available to identify ways to get money back. The Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds trustworthy, culturally relevant or culturally specific organizations, Tribal governments and rural community organizations that provide free tax filing help for people with low incomes. Help is available in multiple languages.

Not filing a tax return often leaves money unclaimed. Filing your taxes is a legal obligation if you meet minimum income thresholds, but you can also get refunds, and claim credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit). Plus, this year there are new tax laws that could help families get more money back. Even with tax law changes, which can be complex, the Internal Revenue Services has stated that most taxpayers will be able to file their returns and receive their refunds without delay.

Community organizations offering free tax filing help:

The following community organizations offer free tax return preparation through October 15. All give assistance in English and Spanish at a minimum and most offer virtual filing options for individuals living outside of these areas.

• Beaverton, Gresham, Portland: CASH Oregon, 503-243-7765, info@cashoregon.org
• Bend, Redmond: Latino Community Association, 541-382-4366, info@latinocommunityassociation.org
• Bend, Corvallis: Oregon State University, 541-737-3371, vita@oregonstate.edu
• Coos Bay, Roseburg: Moneywise Oregon, 541-670-5054, dan@moneywiseoregon.org
• Medford: United Way Jackson County, 541-864-5092, unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org
• Monmouth, Independence: Western Oregon University, 503-751-4132, wouvita@wou.edu
• Ontario, Portland: Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, 971-331-9811, ethz@irco.org">elizabethz@irco.org
• Woodburn: Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos, 503-982-0243, biec@centrodspc.org">debbiec@centrodspc.org

For more information about the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/tax-help.aspx.

With nearly 90 career and technical education options, Chemeketa prepares students for in-demand jobs while supporting the region’s workforce and economy

Salem, Ore., February 2, 2026 — Throughout February, Chemeketa Community College will celebrate National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month by spotlighting the programs that prepare students for in-demand careers, strengthen local industries, and fuel Oregon’s economy. As a leading provider of workforce education in the Mid-Willamette Valley, Chemeketa’s CTE programs play a vital role in connecting people to opportunity and helping communities thrive.

Career and Technical Education is at the core of Chemeketa’s mission to build careers and strengthen communities. With around 90 CTE program options, students can pursue pathways aligned with their passions and interests while gaining the skills employers are actively seeking. Chemeketa’s CTE offerings span healthcare, advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, business, technology, agriculture, transportation, public safety, and other high-demand fields—many leading directly to family-wage jobs.

As part of National CTE Month, the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA), in partnership with Oregon’s 17 community colleges, will host CTE Day at the Capitol on February 18. The event will feature hands-on demonstrations and displays in the East Galleria showcasing how community college CTE programs meet workforce needs across the state. Legislators and members of the public are invited to attend and engage directly with college representatives.

Community college leaders, students, and partners will also be at the Capitol on February 18 to emphasize the importance of maintaining stable funding for community colleges and continued support for the Community College Support Fund. Sustained investment ensures colleges like Chemeketa can continue delivering high-quality workforce training that supports economic mobility and regional growth.

“As the primary workforce training providers in Oregon, community colleges deliver education that is directly connected to jobs,” said Dr. Abby Lee, Executive Director of OCCA. “Community colleges are the backbone of our state’s economy, training the professionals who keep Oregon moving forward. National CTE Month and CTE Day at the Capitol are opportunities to show policymakers and the public how Community Colleges WORK for Oregon by delivering real workforce solutions and supporting local economies.”

At Chemeketa, CTE programs are developed in close partnership with local employers to ensure students gain relevant, hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials. According to a 2023 Lightcast economic impact study, Oregon’s community colleges generated $9.6 billion in economic impact during Fiscal Year 2021–22 and supported nearly one in every 22 jobs statewide.

“Career and Technical Education changes lives,” said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. “Our CTE programs help individuals build meaningful careers that lead to family-wage jobs, while also strengthening the industries and communities we serve. With nearly 90 CTE options, Chemeketa offers pathways that align with students’ passions and goals, whether they are just starting out, retraining for a new career, or advancing in their current field.”

Community members are encouraged to celebrate National CTE Month by learning more about Chemeketa’s CTE programs and following Chemeketa and OCCA on social media throughout February as colleges across the state highlight the people, programs, and partnerships that make Career and Technical Education a powerful engine for Oregon’s workforce.

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For more than 55 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves more than 18,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

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

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College will host memorial basketball games Saturday, Feb. 7, honoring late PCC student-athlete Chris Bendle and raising funds for the Chris Bendle Basketball Scholarship.

PCC’s teams will play Lane Community College at the Cascade Campus gymnasium in Portland with the men’s game starting at 2 p.m., followed by the women at 4 p.m. 

"Chris Bendle was loved at Portland Community College," said PCC Athletics Director Tony Broadous, who coached Bendle. "A hardworking, confident competitor, and honor student, he earned his role with hustle and toughness. He redshirted to improve, chasing a great breakout season. He won’t be forgotten." 

The fundraiser supports the scholarship foundation established in Bendle’s memory to honor his passion, drive and dedication to the sport he loved. Bendle, a Scappoose native, was an all-star athlete for Scappoose High School, earned a spot with the PCC Panthers and was known for his work ethic and three-point shooting. The 6-0 guard competed for PCC during the 2018-19 season and was known for his relentless work ethic. Bendle was just 20 when he died on May 28, 2020 in an automobile accident near his hometown. 

During halftime of both games, Panthers fans can participate in a three-point shooting contest with goodies like candy and T-shirt for prizes. A 50/50 raffle will also be held, with tickets available for $1 each.

Organizers said last year’s event raised $600, and the winner’s half of the raffle was donated back to the scholarship foundation. This year's aim is to grow the fund even more.

Supporters can also donate directly through the Chris Bendle Foundation Basketball Scholarship website or for fans who want an ongoing way to give can enroll in the Fred Meyer Community Rewards Program and select the Chris Bendle Foundation as their designated organization. The rewards program allows participating organizations to receive donations based on customer spending tied to a linked rewards account.

Event details

• What: Chris Bendle Memorial Games (fundraiser doubleheader)

• When: 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7

• Where: Cascade Campus Gymnasium (600 N. Killingsworth St.)

• Who: PCC vs. Lane Community College

• Extras: Halftime 3-point contests (both games), 50/50 raffle ($1 tickets)

Learn more, or find additional details at panthers.pcc.edu.

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.

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The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is stepping up efforts to keep families safe on the road. From January 26 through February 8, deputies will conduct focused enforcement of seat belt and child safety seat laws across the county—because your safety, and your family’s safety, matters.

Although Oregon boasts a high seat belt use rate of 95.53% (2024), unrestrained crashes still lead to tragic outcomes every year. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT):

• In 2021, failure to wear a seat belt was a factor in half of Oregon’s traffic fatalities.
• More than one-third of children under age 8 injured in crashes were unrestrained, held on laps, or moved to adult belts too soon.

This enforcement effort is funded by the Oregon IMPACT Traffic Safety Grant, which provides additional patrol hours dedicated to preventing serious injuries and saving lives.

Our message is simple:

• Buckle up—every trip, every seat.
• Make sure children are in the right seat for their age and size. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect the people you love.

For more information on child passenger safety, visit ODOT’s Safety Resources.

#BuckleUp #ChildPassengerSafety #LincolnCounty #DriveSafe

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Monday, February 2, 2026

Opening Feb. 7, 2026, the exhibition explores the science, significance, history, and wonder of volcanoes that are constantly reshaping the High Desert

(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, "Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration," which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.

On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.

"From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. "We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”

WHAT:             Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.

WHEN:            Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027

WHERE:          High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)

                         59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)

COST:              Free with Museum admission or membership

                         Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID

Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:

• Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
• Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
• Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
• Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
• Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.

“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.

About The High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum opened in Bend, Oregon, in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history, and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert region. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence, and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Annual Clinic Provides No-cost Services for Youth ages 4–17

VANCOUVER, Wash.— Clark College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic will offer free dental care for children ages 4-17 during its annual Free Children’s Dental Health Care Day on Saturday, Feb. 7.

The college’s dental hygiene students will provide free care under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. Services are available to families with low income or no insurance, and children with special health care needs are welcome.

Free services include:

• Dental exams
• Teeth cleanings
• Dental X-rays
• Sealants
• Fluoride treatments
• Select dental emergencies

Event details:

Appointments are required:  Call Clark Dental Hygiene business office at 360-992-2158

What:   Free Children’s Dental Health Care Day

When:  Saturday, Feb. 7, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: The Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center in the Health Sciences Building on Clark's main campus at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, Washington 

Driving directions and parking maps are available at www.clark.edu/maps.

All Are Welcome: Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds 

Accommodation: If you need an accommodation due to a disability to participate in this event, please contact hr@clark.edu or 360-992-2432. Please make requests as early as possible to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.

About Clark's Dental Hygiene Program and Clinic

The Clark College Dental Hygiene program is nationally recognized for excellence and highly regarded by dental professionals in the region. Clark also offers a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, and builds on the existing associate degree. The Firstenburg Dental Hygiene Education and Care Center, located on the college’s main campus, offers affordable dental care for more than 2,000 patients annually. Equipped with modern technology, the center provides high-quality care for patients in the Vancouver/Portland area delivered by Clark’s dental hygiene students under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. Available patient treatment times vary term by term. Clinic days are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. 

Learn more about Clark’s Dental Hygiene Clinic here.

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.   

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Columbia 9-1-1 Conducting Planned Maintenance and Inspections

Work follows meetings with first responders and community member to support reliable emergency communications

ST. HELENS, Ore. [February 01, 2026] — The Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District will begin planned preventative maintenance and inspections at select radio tower sites starting the week of February 2, 2026. After meeting with local first responders and receiving input from community members, the District is taking steps to address the concerns raised and maintain reliable emergency communications.

In addition to preventative maintenance, the inspections will help identify equipment that may need updating or replacement to ensure the system is performing as designed. Maintenance activities will take place intermittently over an estimated three-week period. During this time, individual tower sites may be temporarily taken out of service while work is completed.

The District has worked closely with emergency responder agencies throughout Columbia County to identify practical, accessible solutions and to develop a coordinated plan that includes contingency measures to minimize any potential service impacts.

“Our priority is responding quickly and effectively to the concerns raised by the agencies and community members who rely on this system,” said Jeremy Hipes, Executive Director of the Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District. “This work allows us to directly assess system performance and take appropriate action while keeping emergency communications available.”

Emergency services will continue to operate throughout the maintenance period. The District will provide updates as appropriate if conditions change.

For more information, please contact:
Jeremy Hipes
Executive Director
Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District
Phone: 503-397-7255
Email: jhipes@columbia911.com

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - On Saturday, January 31, at a peaceful march in Portland organized by Oregon’s labor unions; workers, children, and community allies were tear-gassed by federal agents. The use of chemical agents against nonviolent demonstrators is dangerous, unacceptable and an attack on Oregon’s working families.

Peaceful protest is a fundamental American right. When federal agents respond to lawful, nonviolent demonstrations with force, they undermine public trust and put workers, patients and entire communities at risk.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) strongly condemns these actions. We will not be intimidated, and we will not accept violence as a response to organizing, dissent, or advocacy. Attacks on working people are attacks on the health and safety of our communities.

Even in the midst of this aggression, ONA’s strength was evident. Frontline nurses and healthcare professionals immediately did what they do best: caring for people in need and providing treatment to those exposed to chemical agents.

Their response reflects the core values of nursing and healthcare—protecting health, safety, human dignity and human rights, especially in moments of crisis.

ONA will continue to stand up for Oregon’s immigrant community—by taking action in our streets, holding hospitals accountable, protecting patients, and advancing policies like the Healthcare Without Fear Act—legislation that establishes clear standards and accountability for federal agents operating in healthcare settings and our communities.

Please visit OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear for more information and to take action.

ONA remains committed and ready to stand on the frontlines to defend all Oregonians from threats to their safety, health, and fundamental rights. 

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On Saturday, January 31^st, 2026, Lincoln City Police Department Officers, including Police K9 Nato, responded to assist the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office in establishing a perimeter around a residence on North Westview Drive in Otis, Oregon. LCSO Deputies relayed that they believed 27-year-old Billyray Branum, of Otis Oregon, was barricaded inside and refusing to come out. Branum had an active felony warrant related to a weapons offense.

After an approximate 90-minute standoff Branum agreed to peacefully surrender and came out with his hands raised. He was taken into custody without violence. During a brief interview Branum acknowledged, “I really did not want to get bit.” He was lodged by LCSO Deputies on his warrants.

Although our K9 Officers, as well as Nix and Nato, train rigorously to track and apprehend suspects, the primary goal of our K9 Program is to encourage offenders to surrender peacefully and keep our Officers safe. We would like to express our gratitude to the citizens of Lincoln City for their ongoing support of our K9 Program. We have experienced many peaceful surrenders based on the presence of our K9 partners and are pleased to support our city and neighboring agencies with their hard work.

Just before 8 p.m. this evening, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue crews responded to reports of a residential fire on Old Parrett Mountain Road in rural Newberg. The 9-1-1 caller reported that the kitchen was on fire in a two-story home.

First-arriving units found the residence fully involved in fire, with flames venting from all windows on all sides of the structure. Due to the lack of fire hydrants in the area, crews initiated a water shuttle operation using water tenders to provide a sustained supply for suppression efforts. Access to the scene was also challenged by a long, narrow driveway extending nearly a half mile. A second alarm was requested right away to bring additional firefighters and apparatus to the scene due to these challenging conditions.

All occupants safely evacuated the home prior to firefighter arrival. One resident sustained minor injuries after attempting to re-enter the home to search for a missing cat. He was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

Firefighters worked defensively to contain and extinguish the fire under difficult conditions. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Dundee Fire & Rescue and Newberg Police Department.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by fire investigators.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) — A man accused of crashing into an occupied Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) patrol SUV is in custody.

Neither MCSO deputy inside the patrol SUV were seriously injured.

At approximately 2 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, dispatchers with the City of Portland’s Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) notified law enforcement over the radio that a car fled from Portland Police near Northeast Glisan Street and Northeast 148^th Avenue.

Two MCSO deputies, riding as a partner car, later saw the suspect’s vehicle. The deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver immediately took off. MCSO deputies did not pursue the car and put out the last known direction on the radio.

PPB officers later found the car and deployed spike strips. Despite the deployment, the car continued traveling and entered the area of Northeast Fremont Street and Northeast 102^nd Avenue.

As the driver turned onto Northeast 102^nd Avenue, they lost control and struck the front of the deputy’s patrol vehicle. The deputies reported traveling approximately 20 miles per hour at the time of the collision. The driver fled the crash scene.

PPB officers later found the vehicle near Northeast Rose Parkway and Northeast 127^th Avenue. The vehicle stopped in the 3400 block of Northeast 126^th Avenue, where the driver exited and tried to get away on foot.

When MCSO deputies arrived at that location, PPB officers were in the roadway trying to take the suspect into custody.

The suspect faces charges of failure to perform the duties of a driver, recklessly endangering another person involving two victims, reckless driving, and attempting to elude a police officer

PPB officers booked the suspect into the Multnomah County Detention Center.

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

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

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

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

About MCSO:

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office proudly serves Oregon’s most populous county, providing corrections and law enforcement services with the highest commitment to safety and care.

MCSO delivers extensive public safety services across Multnomah County, including policing contract cities (Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, and Wood Village) and various unincorporated areas like Sauvie Island, the West Hills, and the Columbia River Gorge.

Additionally, MCSO holds the state's largest water jurisdiction, patrolling 110 river miles. MCSO also operates two correctional facilities, the Multnomah County Detention Center and Inverness Jail, and is responsible for the secure transportation of people in custody.

Finally, MCSO helps to ensure safety at crucial county locations, including the Central Courthouse in downtown Portland.

This morning, the City of Happy Valley, Team Rubicon volunteers, and community partners came together at Carver Mobile Home Ranch in Happy Valley to make a difference in the life of a local Vietnam Veteran. Volunteers from Team Rubicon volunteers joined Mayor Tom Ellis, Director of Community Services Steve Campbell, and City staff to help bring Gary’s home into compliance with HOA and park standards.

During the morning, volunteers removed old siding, replaced it with new materials, and painted the home, ensuring it met required standards and allowing Gary to remain safely housed. The work was made possible thanks to PARR Lumber’s Damascus location, which generously donated all necessary supplies, including siding, paint, and other materials.

City staff first met Gary during the recent flooding along the Clackamas River while checking on residents affected by rising waters. Neighbors had shared that Gary, a Vietnam Veteran, was struggling to maintain his home due to rising costs and limited resources.

Moved by his story, the City partnered with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves communities before, during, and after disasters. Maverick, a Team Rubicon volunteer, said:

“I believe in the power of service before self. No one should have to suffer while I still have breath and the ability to help. When we show up for our neighbors, we strengthen not just individual lives, but the entire community.”

Mayor Tom Ellis personally joined volunteers on-site, working alongside the team to make the repairs possible. “This morning’s work shows the power of neighbors helping neighbors,” Mayor Ellis said. “It’s veterans helping veterans, and a community stepping in when someone needs a hand.”

The City of Happy Valley thanks Team Rubicon, PARR Lumber, and everyone who volunteered today. Their efforts are a vivid example of the compassion, teamwork, and spirit that define the Happy Valley community.

https://youtube.com/shorts/XWtTUyX7S3o?si=32jEpHntfl3fCy5A

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Update to Friday's news release

Salem, OR—Direct File Oregon has been updated and is available to correctly calculate eligibility and credit amounts for taxpayers claiming the Oregon Kids Credit and one or more of the new federal tax deductions for overtime wages, tips, and new car loan interest, the Department of Revenue announced Saturday.

Direct File Oregon is an interview-based tax preparation software that allows taxpayers to file their Oregon personal income tax returns for free directly with the state.

Friday, the department offered taxpayers who claim the Oregon Kids Credit new guidance that included a recommendation to wait to file until tax preparation software could be updated.

During preparation for the 2026 tax season, the department provided incorrect information on tax form instructions and to tax preparation software partners regarding calculations for claiming the Oregon Kids’ Credit. As a result, a small number of taxpayers who are not eligible for the Oregon Kids Credit calculated and claimed the Oregon Kids Credit on their returns. An additional small number of taxpayers who are eligible to claim the Oregon Kids Credit claimed too large of a credit.

The department identified the error among some of the earliest returns submitted when processing of e-filed returns opened Monday. Through Friday morning, the agency had processed about 135,000 tax year 2025 returns. The new federal deductions impacted Oregon Kids Credit eligibility on fewer than 500 of those returns. While the department expects that number to grow before all tax filing software vendors update to fix the calculation, it anticipates that the total number of affected returns will remain low.

Taxpayers who have already filed returns and believe they may be impacted do not have to take any action to correct their returns. DOR is automatically adjusting returns, and will notify taxpayers of any adjustments. Taxpayers will receive this notice in the mail, as well as in their Revenue Online account.

“The Oregon Kids Credit benefits some of the lowest-income families in the state,” Department of Revenue Director David Gerstenfeld said. “We are notifying each affected taxpayer and letting them know they don’t need to take any action. We will make the correction to their return, but we also want to manage taxpayers’ expectations. Unfortunately, their refund may be less than they anticipated. We know that a difference of even $100 can be very impactful for low-income families with young children, and we sincerely apologize for the error.”

The error centers around how the new federal income tax deductions for overtime wages, tips, and new car loan interest affects Oregon taxpayers’ modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) as it relates specifically to eligibility for the Oregon Kids Credit on their state return. The deductions were part of House Resolution 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, passed by Congress and signed into law after the 2025 Oregon Legislative session ended. The federal legislation made major changes to tax law that were quickly incorporated into DOR forms, instructions, and processes. The agency monitors each filing season closely and identified the error and solution within days of the season start.

The department corrected the error in its online tax form instructions and Direct File Oregon. It has contacted tax preparation software providers so that they can do the same.

The department recommends that taxpayers who plan to claim one or more of these new deductions and have not yet filed their returns use Direct File Oregon, or wait until the tax filing software product they use, has been updated.

Answers to frequently asked questions are available on the department's website along with agency contact information for affected taxpayers. The new webpage will be updated as software providers complete their updates. Taxpayers with questions can call 503-947-0350 or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Kids Credit is a refundable credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with MAGI of $26,550 or less, the full credit is $1,050 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with MAGI up to $31,550.

Vancouver, WA — At approximately 4:30 p.m., the Vancouver Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle into a building at an apartment complex off SE 139th Ave.

Engine 8 arrived first and secured the vehicle, which was not running, and assisted the occupant with extrication. The individual was able to exit under their own power and was transported by AMR to a local hospital. The extent of injuries is unknown at this time. One person who lives at the apartment complex was displaced as a result of the incident.  Damage costs are unknown. The Vancouver Fire Department’s coordinated response ensured scene safety and minimized further impact to the residents.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health has identified an additional location where a person with measles visited while contagious last week. Public Health announced the case on Jan. 23, 2026. No additional confirmed cases of measles have been identified to date.

People who visited The Vancouver Clinic’s Ridgefield clinic, 5515 Pioneer St., from 4 to 9 pm Wednesday, Jan. 21 may have been exposed to measles. People who were at the medical office and who have not been vaccinated against measles or have not had measles in the past are at risk for getting sick.

The person who tested positive for measles was also at Ridgefield High School while they were contagious on Jan. 14, 15 and 16.

Anyone who may have been exposed and believes they have symptoms of measles should call their health care provider before visiting the medical office to make a plan that avoids exposing others in the waiting room.

About measles
Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious illness caused by a virus. Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left.

After someone is exposed to measles, they begin to get sick in about one to three weeks. Measles symptoms begin with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a rash that usually begins at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. People are contagious with measles up to four days before the rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears.

Measles poses the highest risk to people who have not been vaccinated, including infants younger than 12 months. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine provides the best protection against measles. One dose of the vaccine is about 93 percent effective at preventing measles. Two doses are about 97 percent effective.

For more information about the local measles investigation, visit the Clark County Public Health measles investigation webpage.

News Advisory:

The Clark County Public Health Department will be releasing a statement about a measles case treated at Vancouver Clinic in Ridgefield. 

On January 21, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Vancouver Clinic teams provided care to a patient with symptoms consistent with measles. Clinical staff met the patient at their car and immediately provided an N95 mask, face shield, gown, and gloves, and walked the patient to the negative pressure room to minimize any risk of exposure.   

Vancouver Clinic followed all required precautions consistent with infectious control guidelines. In addition, clinic employees have been in regular communication with local health authorities to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Vancouver Clinic has reached out to four patients who were in the waiting area of the Ridgefield Medical Clinic at that time. Out of an abundance of caution, the clinic will also reach out to those who came to the clinic later in the evening. Vancouver Clinic asks any patient who believes they may have measles symptoms to call us in advance at 360-882-2778 so we can determine the best way to provide care. Our teams may recommend a virtual appointment or ask to meet outside first.

People who are vaccinated are considered well-protected against measles. The two dose MMR series is 97% effective and provides long-term immunity.

Common measles symptoms include: runny nose, cough, red irritated eyes, rash, and fever.

For more information go to our website:  https://www.tvc.org/patients/measles-information/

About Vancouver Clinic 

Vancouver Clinic is the largest independent, physician-owned, multispecialty medical practice in the Northwest. With 580 clinicians, 2,000 employees and 22 locations, Vancouver Clinic is also one of the largest employers in the region. Founded 90 years ago, Vancouver Clinic offers comprehensive primary, specialty, and surgical care. For more information, visit tvc.org. 

WHAT: Medford residents and the surrounding community is invited to a vigil honoring Alex Pretti and all those killed and harmed by federal officers. Alex Pretti was an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital who was shot and killed by federal border patrol agents on Saturday, Jan. 24 while observing immigration enforcement activities and attempting to aid a woman federal agents shoved to the ground.
 

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 31 from 4-6 p.m.
 

WHERE: Medford Veterans Park, 1601 South Pacific Hwy, Medford
 

WHO: Nurses, doctors and healthcare workers from local hospitals and clinics, elected leaders and community advocates. 
 

WHY: Nurses and healthcare workers will not stand by while human rights violations continue. We will honor Alex’s legacy by continuing to stand up against injustice and hold ICE, border patrol and similar federal agencies accountable to ensure justice for our colleagues, patients and communities.

“A nurse's job is to care for their patients—but they are also ethically bound to speak out in the face of injustice and human rights violations. Provision 8.2 of the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Nurses is clear: 'Where there are human rights violations, nurses ought to and must stand up for those rights and demand accountability.' That is exactly what Alex was doing … The Oregon Nurses Association stands in unequivocal solidarity with immigrant communities, with nurses, and with all frontline healthcare professionals across the country who are demanding accountability, and an independent investigation. Federal enforcement tactics that endanger lives and traumatize communities have no place in a just society. We call on all major healthcare systems in Oregon to stand up for nurses, publicly denounce this killing, and to hold ICE and similar federal agents accountable in healthcare settings. A nurse who spent his life caring for veterans was killed by his own government for speaking out. He deserves justice.” - Oregon Nurses Association Statement on Jan. 24
 

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

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SALEM, OR — Jan 30, 2026 — The Marion County Bar Association (MCBA) has selected Marion County Justice of the Peace Justin Kidd as the recipient of the Carson Award for service to the community, recognizing his sustained commitment to public service.

The Carson Award is presented annually to an MCBA member whose work reflects exceptional dedication to the legal profession and to the broader community it serves. The award honors individuals who demonstrate integrity, leadership, and a deep sense of responsibility beyond the courtroom.

Judge Kidd was recognized for his contributions to the Marion County community through his professional service, mentorship, civic engagement, and commitment to ensuring access to justice. Colleagues noted his exceptional commitment to serving Spanish and Russian speaking communities in Marion County. The Justice Court provides hearing completely in Spanish, where appropriate, and Judge Kidd conducts courthouse weddings in English, French, Spanish, and Russian.

“I deeply appreciate Judge Kidd’s commitment to Marion County residents and his enthusiasm for expanding community access to the Justice Court,” said Commissioner Danielle Bethell. “He meets people where they're at and works hard to help them navigate the legal process smoothly. I think that reflects the best service we seek to provide here at the County.”

Under Kidd's leadership the Marin County Justice Court has grown. When he was appointed in 2021, the court heard about 16,000 cases per year. Now, the court hears more than 30,000 cases per year. The additional cases had been heard at the circuit court. Moving these cases to the Justice Court frees up the circuit court to focus on public safety concerns.

"Show up. Do the work. Open the Courthouse door," said Judge Kidd.  "Those are the guiding principles of my work—both in the court and the community.  I'm thankful to MCBA. I'm also thankful to the County Commissioners for providing the court with the resources that make my work possible."

Judge Kidd coaches mock trial at both Salem—Keizer Public Schools and also for Willamette University.  Willamette's moot court board awarded him the 2025 award for Outstanding Legal Professional.  He also serves as a law student mentor, having previously earned Willamette University's Mentor of the Year award.

Judge Kidd's service extends to the community.  He has a special heart for foster children, having served as resource parent.  He is the adoptive father of two former foster children, and he has served on the board of Marion County CASA and Kindred Matters, an organization that works to reunite foster children separated from their siblings by the foster care system.

MCBA also honored Tiffany Humphrey with the Carson award to Service for the Bar, as well as Hunter Emerick and Ron Hellewell with the De Muniz award for outstanding professionalism, integrity, fairness, and service to the legal system and the community. The awards will be celebrated with a dinner at the Salem Convention Center February 5, 2026.

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

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

New for 2026: Improving access with fee-free days and Check Out Washington
 

Parking fee-free days
Twelve parking fee-free days, including some weekdays, some weekend days, some federal holidays and other observances. The goal is to offer fee-free days that differ from those for state parks, increasing the number of free days on public lands in the county. In 2026, the parking fee-free dates are:

• Monday, Feb. 2: Groundhog Day
• Monday, March 30: National Take a Walk in the Park Day
• Friday, April 24: Arbor Day
• Saturday, May 9: National Bird Day
• Sunday, May 17: Kids to Parks Day
• Sunday, June 21: Summer Solstice
• Saturday, July 11: National Wildlife Day
• Saturday, Aug. 15: National Relaxation Day
• Monday, Sept. 7: Labor Day
• Saturday, Oct. 17: National Take a Hike Day
• Friday, Nov. 27: Green Friday
• Saturday, Dec. 5: International Volunteer Day
   

Borrow a parking pass for free
In collaboration with Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries, Public Works will add county regional parks parking passes to the library’s free Check Out Washington backpacks. Patrons can place holds online at fvrl.org and check out backpacks at district library locations beginning in early 2026.  

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Douglas County, Ore. (Jan. 30, 2026) - On Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 8:18 a.m., Oregon State Police and local law enforcement agencies responded to multiple 911 calls of a person discharging a firearm from a vehicle on Interstate 5, near milepost 128, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated the suspect, now known as Charles Simmons (53) of Winston, was reportedly discharging a firearm from within his Dodge Ram pickup while traveling northbound on the interstate. The suspect reportedly contacted pedestrians, attempted to stop other motorists, and caused a non-injury crash with another vehicle while displaying and at times discharging a firearm.  The suspect was located by law enforcement and taken into custody. There is no indication of on-going danger to the public related to the incident.

After identifying the suspect, it was later learned he had contacted the Roseburg OSP office and made concerning comments related to “foreign” persons driving on I-5. OSP is investigating possible bias crimes in relation to this incident and the suspect’s previous statement.

OSP was assisted by the Roseburg Police Department, Winston Police Department, Sutherlin Police Department, and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Any witnesses are asked to contact OSP dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26032714.

In December 2025, detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit began an investigation when Vancouver Police Department detectives notified them of a sexual assault. The victim reported to the medical staff at a Vancouver hospital that the sexual assault took place in Washington County.

Detectives learned the male suspect messaged the victim through the social media app, Snapchat, and began inappropriate contact. The man convinced the victim to meet in-person, and so he drove to Vancouver, Washington, to pick them up. The suspect drove the victim to Cornelius, Oregon, on December 24, 2025, and sexually assaulted them. The child victim also reported that the man gave them alcohol, marijuana, and other intoxicants during the interaction.

On January 26, 2026, detectives located and arrested 21-year-old Alexis Jovanny Leyva-Lopez of Cornelius and lodged him in the Washington County Jail. On Friday, January 30th, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted Leyva-Lopez on the following charges:

• Rape in the first degree - three counts
• Rape in the second degree – three counts
• Sodomy in the first degree – three counts
• Sodomy in the second degree – three counts
• Sexual abuse in the first degree – six counts
• Strangulation

Detectives are concerned that there are additional victims. If you are a victim or have additional information, contact the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-18247.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, by Oregon House Bill 3273, is releasing Leyva-Lopez’s booking photo to identify additional criminal activity.

This Saturday, a powerful example of community compassion will be on display as Team Rubicon volunteers join Happy Valley Mayor Tom Ellis, Director of Community Services Steve Campbell, and city staff to help a local Vietnam Veteran remain in his home.

During the recent flooding along the Clackamas River, City of Happy Valley representatives met Gary, a Vietnam Veteran who resides at Carver Mobile Home Ranch. Some of Gary’s neighbors had mentioned that he needed support. With rising expenses and limited resources, he was unable to afford the upgrades needed to bring his home into compliance with park standards. As a veteran who has served our country, Gary needed a helping hand to remain safe in the place he calls home.

Moved by Gary’s story, the City of Happy Valley reached out to Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization known for serving communities before, during, and after disasters and crises. Together, they rallied support to ensure Gary received the help he needed.

Thanks to the generosity of PARR Lumber’s Damascus location, all necessary supplies including siding, paint, and additional materials were donated to make the needed repairs. Team Rubicon volunteers, alongside city volunteers, will spend Saturday working on Gary’s home to bring it into compliance.

Team Rubicon’s mission is to support humanity and build resiliency for vulnerable communities worldwide. This project reflects that mission on a local level, veterans helping veterans, and a community showing up when it matters most.

The volunteer effort will take place on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Carver Mobile Home Ranch- 16300 SE HWY 224, Happy Valley Or 97089 By the end of the day, Gary’s home will meet park standards, allowing him to stay safely housed.

The City of Happy Valley is proud to partner with Team Rubicon and grateful to PARR Lumber for their generous donation. This project is a great example of what makes Happy Valley special, neighbors showing up and taking care of one another.

Legacy Good Samaritan selected for national STAND award to enhance preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks

PORTLAND, ORE (January 30, 2026) – Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center has been awarded a $500,000 Special Pathogen Treatment and Network Development (STAND) grant to enhance the hospital’s ability to care for patients with high-consequence infectious diseases.

Managed by the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) and Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) STAND is part of an effort to raise preparedness at Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment Centers in the United States. Legacy Good Samaritan is one of 54 hospitals across 28 states and U.S. territories who received this award. These facilities are equipped to provide comprehensive inpatient care throughout the full course of illness for patients with High Consequence Infectious Diseases (HCID) such as Ebola virus disease or Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS CoV), while maintaining rigorous infection prevention and control standards.

This funding helps to enhance the capabilities of a Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment Center, a key component of the National Special Pathogen Treatment System, which is a tiered framework that ensures safe, high-quality care across the U.S. during HCID outbreaks. The investment strengthens regional readiness at a time when emerging infectious diseases continue to pose a global public health risk.

“Legacy Good Samaritan is committed to patient safety and public health with this regional service,” said Melinda Muller, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer, Legacy Health. “We created this dedicated unit to provide comprehensive inpatient care throughout the course of a high-consequence infectious disease, such as Ebola or other emerging pathogens, while upholding rigorous infection-prevention and control standards that protect patients, staff and surrounding communities.” Legacy has an ongoing collaborative partnership with regional health systems, Providence Health & Services, Kaiser NW, PeaceHealth, and OHSU to sustain readiness.

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About Legacy Health
Legacy Health is a local, nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services – from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children’s care and advanced medical centers – to care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. For more information, visit www.legacyhealth.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sail Into Love Returns for Second Year at Crystal Ballroom

The Yachtsmen and Red Light Romeos to perform Valentine’s Day concert in Portland

PORTLAND, OR — Sail Into Love, a Valentine’s Day yacht rock concert featuring The Yachtsmen and Red Light Romeos, will return for its second consecutive year on Saturday, February 14, at Portland’s Crystal Ballroom.

The annual event brings together two Portland-based bands performing music from the 1970s soft rock and yacht rock era. Repertoire for the evening draws from 1970s soft rock and yacht rock, with songs associated with artists including Steely Dan, Hall & Oates, Fleetwood Mac, and the Doobie Brothers.

The concert is open to audiences 21 and over. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with music beginning at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets, with fees included, are priced at $35 for general admission and $46 for reserved balcony seating.

Tickets are available through the Crystal Ballroom website.

Event Information

Event: Sail Into Love – A Yacht Rock Valentine
Date: Saturday, February 14
Venue: McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, Portland, OR
Doors: 6:30 p.m.
Music: 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 21+
Tickets: $35 GA / $46 Reserved Balcony (fees included)

On Sale: www.crystalballroompdx.com

Artist Websites:
www.redlightromeos.com

www.theyachtsmen.com

Woodland, WA - Woodland School District is celebrating a major financial win that will directly improve student safety and school infrastructure. Stacy Brown, Executive Director of Business Services, recently notified Facilities Director Neil Brinson and Superintendent Asha Riley that the district has been awarded $600,000 through the state’s Urgent Repair Grant program.

The news comes as a welcome surprise to district leadership. Brown had applied for a similar grant last year but was denied, making this year’s successful application a "wholly unexpected" victory for the community.

Vital Projects Get the Green Light

The $600,000 award is earmarked for two high-priority projects:

Woodland Middle School: A full upgrade of the fire alarm systems to ensure modern safety standards.

Columbia Elementary: Replacement and repair of a section of the building's roof.

"These repairs would have been out of reach without this grant," the district noted, emphasizing that these funds allow the district to protect its physical assets without pulling resources away from the classroom.

Persistence Pays Off

The successful award highlights the importance of persistence in school business operations. By reapplying after a previous denial, Stacy Brown and her team secured the necessary capital to address infrastructure needs that have been on the district’s radar for some time.

Asha Riley noted, “We have worked hard to preserve our buildings so they can continue to serve generations of students. However, time and daily use inevitably take their toll, and major capital projects, like replacing roofs that have reached the end of their intended lifespan, can be difficult to take on. We are thrilled and deeply grateful to receive this $600,000 award. Ensuring our students have a safe, dry, and secure learning environment is our top priority, but large-scale projects such as the Columbia Elementary roof and the Middle School fire alarm upgrades are a massive undertaking. Stacy’s persistence in pursuing this grant truly made the ‘impossible’ possible.”

Superintendent Asha Riley and the facilities team are now moving forward with the planning phases to ensure these repairs are completed efficiently, providing a safer and more secure environment for Woodland students.

Salem, OR— The Oregon Department of Revenue is offering new guidance today for taxpayers claiming the Oregon Kids Credit, ensuring that taxpayers can claim the correct credit amount when they electronically file their tax year 2025 return.

During preparation for the 2026 tax season, the department provided incorrect information on tax form instructions and to tax preparation software partners regarding calculations for claiming the Oregon Kids’ Credit. As a result, a small number of taxpayers who are not eligible for the Oregon Kids Credit calculated and claimed the Oregon Kids Credit on their returns. An additional small number of taxpayers who are eligible to claim the Oregon Kids Credit claimed too large of a credit.

The department identified the error among some of the earliest returns submitted when processing of e-filed returns opened Monday. Through Friday morning, the agency had processed about 135,000 tax year 2025 returns. The new federal deductions impacted Oregon Kids Credit eligibility on fewer than 500 of those returns. While the department expects that number to grow before all tax filing software vendors update to fix the calculation, it anticipates that the total number of affected returns will remain low.

Taxpayers who have already filed returns and believe they may be impacted do not have to take any action to correct their returns. DOR is automatically adjusting returns, and will notify taxpayers of any adjustments. Taxpayers will receive this notice in the mail, as well as in their Revenue Online account.

“The Oregon Kids Credit benefits some the lowest-income families in the state,” Department of Revenue Director David Gerstenfeld said. “We are notifying each affected taxpayer and letting them know they don’t need to take any action. We will make the correction to their return, but we also want to manage taxpayers’ expectations. Unfortunately, their refund may be less than they anticipated. We know that a difference of even $100 can be very impactful for low-income families with young children, and we sincerely apologize for the error.”

The error centers around how the new federal income tax deductions for overtime wages, tips, and new car loan interest affects Oregon taxpayers’ modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) as it relates specifically to eligibility for the Oregon Kids Credit on their state return. The deductions were part of House Resolution 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, passed by Congress and signed into law after the 2025 Oregon Legislative session ended. The federal legislation made major changes to tax law that were quickly incorporated into DOR forms, instructions, and processes. The agency monitors each filing season closely and identified the error and solution within days of the season start.

The department is correcting the error in its online tax form instructions and Direct File Oregon, an interview-based tax preparation software option that allows taxpayers to file their Oregon personal income tax returns directly with the state for free. DOR is also contacting software providers so that they can do the same.

“Our IT team will work through the weekend to update our systems to make sure taxpayers don’t face delays because of this error,” DOR Chief Information Officer Jon Dolan said. “We expect Direct File Oregon to be accurately filing returns for Oregon Kids’ Credit claimants by early next week.”

The department recommends that taxpayers who plan to claim one or more of these new deductions and have not yet filed their returns wait to file until Direct File Oregon, or the tax filing software product they use, has been updated.

Answers to frequently asked questions are available on the department's website along with agency contact information for affected taxpayers. The new webpage will be updated as software providers complete their updates. Taxpayers with questions can call 503-947-0350 or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Kids Credit is a refundable credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with MAGI of $26,550 or less, the full credit is $1,050 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with MAGI up to $31,550.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland resident pleaded guilty yesterday to depredation of government property after damaging cameras affixed to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building and setting debris on fire.

Alistair Macfarlane Sidener, 20, pleaded guilty to one count of depredation of government property.

According to court documents, on June 12, 2025, Sidener intentionally damaged several cameras mounted on the facility by shooting paint at them from a water gun and striking cameras with a long metal pole. Shortly after damaging the cameras, Sidener lit debris on fire that had been placed against a metal gate.

On January 28, 2026, Sidener was charged by superseding information with depredation of government property.

Sidener faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000, and three years of supervised release. Sidener will be sentenced on May 27, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Sidener has agreed to pay restitution in full.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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Due to an upcoming training, Portland Street Response will modify its hours from January 30 – February 9, 2026 and respond to calls for service between 7:30 a.m. and 10 p.m. during that timeframe.

The training is part of a yearlong collaboration with Portland State University tailored specifically to the program's mobile crisis team.

Portland Street Response will return to its normal hours – 6 a.m. to midnight – on February 10, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Data Dashboard

The State Historic Preservation Office is offering grants for work on historic properties and for archaeology projects. The annual grants fund up to $20,000 in matching funds for preservation projects. Both grant programs support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan.

The Preserving Oregon Grants fund preservation of historic properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Work may include non-maintenance preservation like window repair, roof work, foundation projects, plumbing, and electrical needs.

Preserving Oregon Grants can also fund archaeology projects for significant work contributing toward identifying, preserving and/or interpreting archaeological sites. Archaeology projects by Southern Oregon University Lab of Anthropology were funded last year.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grants help restore or reconstruct the facades of buildings that have been heavily altered over the years. These grants return buildings to their historic appearance and potentially qualify them for historic register designation (local or national). Recent façade projects have taken place in Baker City, Independence, Lebanon, The Dalles, Union.

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support. Free, online grant workshops specific to these grant programs and how to use the online grant application will be offered. Visit the Oregon Heritage grants webpage to register.

• February 25, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. for Preserving Oregon Grants historic property projects. Register for access.
• February 24, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. for Preserving Oregon Grants historic archaeology projects. Register for access.
• February 25, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for Diamonds in the Rough building façade projects. Register for access.
   

Recorded trainings and tips are also online. To learn more about the grants and workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly meeting on January 29 in Salem. The Board denied a petition for a slow-no wake for the entirety of Ana Reservoir in Lake County, approved a Waterway Access Permit exemption for those engaged in whitewater activities on identified Class IV+ river segments, and offered guidance on how to proceed with proposed rulemaking for the Siletz River upstream of Jack Morgan Park.

The Board also heard several agency and program updates, including a staff presentation on the timelines for developing the agency’s budget legislative concept for the 2027-2029 biennium. Concepts for the next biennium are due to the Chief Fiscal Office in April 2026. As a discussion starting point, staff provided future cost projections with current service levels and three budget options with a mix of program cuts, internal cost-saving measures, and fee increases. The Board directed staff to develop a concept for a standard fee increase to motorized boat owners. This aligns with the agency’s budgeting goal to operate within a three-biennium (6-year) timeframe, continuing to provide services and investments that serve boaters. The last motorized fee increase was in 2020. If the fee increase concept becomes a bill and makes it through the legislative process, implementation will not go into effect until 2028, making it eight years from the last motorized fee increase. A legislative concept will be developed and presented to the Board for approval in April. Agency staff will also host Open Houses around the state in the fall to gather public feedback.

In another agenda item, the Board received an update on Don Lindley Park, on the Alsea River in Lincoln County. In 2014, the Marine Board awarded $73,750.00 in grant funding to Lincoln County to purchase property for the development of a motorized boating access facility. Lincoln County has decided they no longer want to develop the property for that purpose and will repay the Marine Board the full amount of the grant.

Petition for Slow-No Wake, Ana Reservoir
On October 24, 2025, the agency received a petition from the Summer Lake Irrigation District with a petition requesting a slow-no wake speed for the entirety of Ana Reservoir.

After discussion, the Board denied the petition to amend 250-020-0211 for boat operations on Ana Reservoir. Marine Board staff will work with its boating safety advocates and marine law enforcement partners to amplify education and outreach for all waterway users on the reservoir.

HB 2982 Waterway Access Permit Whitewater Exemption
In another decision item, the Board received background information on the Waterway Access Permit and the legislative intent for the Board to adopt rules for those engaged in whitewater recreation activities on specific whitewater-exempt waterways and amend OAR 250-010-0760. The Board approved the whitewater exemption language referencing the agency’s Boat Oregon Online Map:

250-010-0760 (f) Nonmotorized boats less than 10 feet in length engaging in whitewater recreation activities while operating on Whitewater Exempt Waterways as identified on OSMB’s Boat Oregon Online Map.
(1) Division 010 incorporates by reference the current Boat Oregon Online Maps Whitewater Exempt Waterway layer. Therefore, persons must consult the current Boat Oregon Online Maps Whitewater Exempt Waterway layer to determine all applicable whitewater exempt waterways.
(2) Changes to exempt waterways may be adopted in this rule division from time to time.

Siletz River Petition
In its final action item, staff requested Board direction with potential rulemaking on the Siletz River, in Lincoln County, to address the petitioner’s (Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians) concerns on motorized boat use upstream of Jack Morgan Park. The Board was presented with three staff recommendations on how to proceed and opted for the staff to take a hybrid approach.

Staff will compile more objective boat use and fishery data, combined with the input provided by the Siletz Rule Advisory Committee, to develop proposed rule language for consideration by the Board at its April meeting. The Board expressed a desire to also hold a local public hearing, if proposed rule language is approved in April, in conjunction with a public comment period.

Upper Rogue River Rules Update
The Board received an update on the effectiveness of the rules adopted in January 2025 on the Upper Rogue River. The rules were the result of roughly two years of local engagement and multi-state agency cooperation. The new rules were implemented to minimize user conflict in that section of the river. During 2025, law enforcement made 82 contacts with motorized boaters. Of these contacts, 73 boaters were fully compliant, eight received a warning related to registration requirements, and one PWC operator was issued a citation for operating in a prohibited area. A total of 1,988 contacts were made with nonmotorized boats; 1,948 fully compliant, 42 received warnings for non-compliance with the waterway access permit requirement, not having a sound signaling device, or no life jackets on board. No citations were issued.

Based upon staff findings, it appears that the boating public was adequately informed about the new rules and complied with the rules. It also appears that conflict between the Charter Boat operations and other river users has been significantly reduced. Agency staff recommend no further action. Staff will perform the two-year and five-year review as previously requested by the Board.

For detailed background on each item and meeting materials, visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Board-and-Public-Meetings.aspx.

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Boater-paid fees and marine fuel taxes fund the Marine Board—not lottery or general fund tax dollars. These funds support boating safety, education, environmental programs, and boating facility access improvements statewide.

VERNONIA, Oregon — A new after-school High Dosage Tutoring Program is launching in late February in Vernonia, and organizers are seeking up to 10 paid tutors to support local elementary students in reading and writing.

The program is a partnership between Northwest Regional Education Service District's Early Learning Hub, the Vernonia School District and Camp Cedar Ridge in Vernonia. The program -- called Vernonia Village -- will serve students in kindergarten through third grade. Tutors will work in small groups to provide targeted literacy support during the after-school hours.

Ideal candidates are patient, reliable and enthusiastic, with strong reading and writing skills and an interest in working with young learners. Education students, community members and retirees are all encouraged to apply.

Program Schedule

• Three afternoons per week for 10 weeks (starting in late February)

• Approximately 3–4 p.m.

• Paid onboarding training (8 hours) provided prior to program start

Benefits

• Paid tutoring positions (rates vary by education and experience)

• Curriculum, materials and training provided

• Valuable experience for resumes and graduate school applications

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in students’ academic growth

Use this application form to learn more and apply. 

The project is funded by an early literacy success grant from the Oregon Department of Education. 

Kelso High School is hosting Fans In The Stands, a regional Unified basketball scrimmage event, on February 4, 2026. Unified teams from Clatskanie, Kelso, Prairie, and Skyview high schools will play 15-minute round robin games starting at 6:00 pm.

New this year will be a Bridging the Gap Transition Services event. There will be a presentation at 5:30, followed by informational tables from 6:00 to 7:30 with community partners such as Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), Life Works, Farm Dog Bakery, Developmental Disabilities Services, Employer Overload, Special Olympics, and the YES Program.

Other highlights of the evening include a photo booth for players and fans and performances by cheerleaders and pep bands from multiple schools throughout the evening.

Admission to the event is suggested donation of cash or canned food items, which will be donated to the Food Bank. New We Are Unified t-shirts can be purchased for $15 at the event and through the Kelso High ASB office, which is open to the community Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:30 to noon and 2:30 to 3:15, and on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 1:15.

February 4 is Unified Awareness Day at Kelso High.

• 5:30 – 6:00: Bridging the GAP presentations
• 6:00 – 7:30
  • Fans in the Stands Unified Special Olympic Games
  • Community partner booths

About Unified Sports
Dedicated to promoting social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experiences, Unified Sports is a division of Special Olympics. It was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.

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.

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) will present St. Mary’s Academy Executive Athletic Director Anna Maria Lopez with the inaugural Anna Maria Lopez Outstanding Athlete of the Year Award on Wednesday, February 4th on National Girls and Women in Sports Day.

The award presentation will take place during a school-wide assembly at 12:15 p.m. in the Richard and Virginia Mathews Gymnasium at St. Mary Academy’s downtown Portland campus, during which five students signing National Letters of Intent on National Signing Day.

Beginning this year, the OSAA National Women and Girls in Sports Committee, along with the Student Activities Advisory Committee, will choose an outstanding Oregon female athlete — past or present — for the Anna Maria Lopez Outstanding Athlete of the Year Award.

Media Availability
Following the presentation, the following individuals will be available for interviews:

• Anna Maria Lopez, Executive Athletic Director, St. Mary’s Academy
• Liane Rae, Principal, St. Mary’s Academy
• Missy Smith, Assistant Director, OSAA (award presenter)

Why This Matters

A 1978 St. Mary’s Academy graduate, Lopez has announced her retirement at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year, closing a remarkable 40-year career as a coach, teacher, and athletic director. A trailblazer in girls’ athletics, she has shaped generations of student-athletes and helped define excellence in Oregon high school sports.

Visuals
Photos and b-roll will be available for media outlets unable to attend.

About Anna Maria Lopez

A living legend at SMA and a pioneer in girls sports, Lopez in June became the fourteenth inductee from Oregon to enter the NFHS National High School Hall of Fame, joining a prestigious list of Oregonians that includes Steve Prefontaine, Danny Ainge, former NFL star Mel Renfro, and Heisman Trophy winner Terry Baker.

As a four-sport standout at SMA, Lopez was an athletic trailblazer in the immediate years after Title IX was passed, which opened the door for increased interscholastic sports opportunities in the ensuing decades.

Lopez led the Blues to two state volleyball championships, was a Parade All-American selection in basketball, won two individual OSAA state track and field titles in the discus, and was an All-American softball player before the OSAA offered the sport.

She went on to star in basketball and volleyball at USC and helped the Trojans win two national volleyball titles. After playing professional volleyball, she returned to SMA in 1985 as a teacher and coach and has been the school’s athletic director for nearly 35 years.

The mark she leaves on St. Mary’s and on high school girls athletics is both remarkable and entirely singular.

Kathy Kinyon, who coached Lopez in track and basketball at SMA, called her the “Caitlin Clark” of her era. In March, Sports Illustrated recognized her as the greatest high school athlete in Oregon history.

The induction into the National High School Hall of Fame in June is perhaps a culmination of a long list of awards Lopez has earned. She was inducted into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. As an administrator, she’s twice been chosen as Oregon Athletic Directors Association Athletic Director of the Year.

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At St. Mary's Academy, We Believe.
St. Mary's Academy, located in the University District of Portland, OR, is the state's oldest continuously operating school and the only all-girls school in Oregon. Founded in 1859 by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, St. Mary's Academy serves more than 550 young women in grades 9-12. The school's college acceptance rate is 100%, and SMA students achieve, excel, and are recognized locally, regionally, and nationally in academic fields, leadership, STEM, the arts, athletics, community service, and extra- and co-curricular activities. To learn more, please visit www.stmaryspdx.org

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery presents “Pressure Drop,” a solo exhibition by Portland-based artist Paula Bullwinkel. This exhibition runs Feb. 9-March 6. An artist reception will be held Thursday, Feb. 19, noon-1 p.m., and Bullwinkel will speak about her work at 12:30 p.m.

“Pressure Drop” features large-scale figurative oil paintings depicting women, children and animals inspired by the artist’s real-life experiences. Her works evoke a sense of mystery, while taking viewers on a narrative journey. With the use of unexpected color and exploration of spatial tricks, these paintings present curious dynamics and evade the mundane.

Bullwinkel's work has been supported by the Oregon Arts Commission, The Ford Family Foundation, Hangar international artist residency and has been exhibited internationally.

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

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

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FOR MEDIA PLANNING PURPOSES 

PRESS CONFERENCE 

Healthcare Without Fear Act – SB 1570 
Friday, Jan. 30  
11 a.m. 
Oregon Nurses Association 
Third Floor Conf. Room 
18765 SW Boones Ferry Rd, Tualatin, OR 97062  

Livestream available on ONA's Facebook page 

WHAT: Nurses and frontline healthcare workers, state legislators and immigration advocates are announcing new legislation to keep Oregon’s hospitals safe and hold federal immigration officers accountable to the same standards as other law enforcement officers in our hospitals and clinics. 

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 30 at 11 a.m.

WHERE: Oregon Nurses Association Headquarters 

18765 SW Boones Ferry Rd, Tualatin, OR 97062 
Third Floor Conference Room 
Take the elevator to the third floor and turn right 

Livestream: https://www.facebook.com/OregonNursesAssociation

WHO: Oregon state legislators who are sponsoring the Healthcare Without Fear Act (Oregon Senate bill 1570) along with frontline nurses, healthcare workers and immigration law experts.  

Planned Speakers: 

• State Senator Wlnsvey Campos, Chief Sponsor 
• State Representative Dacia Grayber, Chief Sponsor 
• State Representative Lamar Wise, Sponsor 
• ONA President Tamie Cline, RN 
• ONA leader Stephanie Funk, RN 
• ONA leader Erica Swartz, RN 
• Isa Peña, Director of Strategy at the Innovation Law Lab 
• Representatives from Oregon AFSCME

Speaker lineup is subject to change.  

WHY: Hospitals and clinics must be places of healing—not fear, intimidation, and detention. In 2025, the Trump administration began allowing immigration enforcement actions in hospitals, clinics, schools, and places of worship—leading to violence, harassment, intimidation. 

In Oregon, federal immigration officers recently shot two people in a hospital parking lot in Portland and arrested an entire family while they were trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER. Federal officers have also been bringing detainees from the Portland ICE facility and people injured in ICE actions to local hospitals for healthcare. Immigration officers have not always followed standard hospital protocols; creating very real safety and security risks for patients and staff. 

Federal agents have reportedly pressured doctors and nurses to skip recommended healthcare so they could discharge detained patients more quickly, refused to step away during private health consultations which include protected health information or sensitive medical exams, freely roamed patient hallways, and removed hospitalized patients against medical advice. These activities violate HIPAA, undermine trust in healthcare providers and our health system, and jeopardize patients’ care. 

The Healthcare Without Fear Act—Oregon Senate Bill 1570—prevents hospitals from being weaponized by federal agencies by requiring federal immigration officers to follow the same standards as other law enforcement in Oregon hospitals and clinics, protects patients’ and workers’ rights, and helps ensure all people can access healthcare without fearing for their health and safety.

• More information on the Healthcare without Fear Act can be found at https://www.oregonrn.org/page/CareWithoutFear. 

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MILWAUKIE – The Clackamas Community College Office of Leadership, Education and Advocacy for Progress is hosting a panel discussion on “Black Excellence: Excellence is a State of Mind” Feb. 25, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

The panel is part of the college’s Black History Month programming and will focus on the concept of Black excellence as a deliberate practice. Speakers will discuss navigating stereotypes, responding to setbacks, pursuing excellence without equating it with perfection and learning through challenges.

The event will be offered in a hybrid format. Participants may attend in person at the Harmony Community Campus or join virtually through a Zoom webinar. Registration is required and access details will be provided to those who register for virtual attendance.

This event is free and open to the public. The Harmony Community Campus is located at 7738 SE Harmony Road, Milwaukie. For more information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/panelblackexcellence. To learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion events, visit www.clackamas.edu/equity-and-belonging/equity-and-belonging-events.

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BANK ROBBERY SUSPECTS DETAINED – FINAL UPDATE

January 29, 2026 – Lincoln County, OR

At approximately 11:48am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a bank robbery at Columbia Bank in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Callers reported two armed adult males concealing their faces entered the bank and held staff at gun point, demanding access to the vault. Columbia Bank reported the two successfully obtained more than $50,000 in US currency before fleeing south on Highway 101 in a red sedan without license plates.

The red suspect vehicle was abandoned at a vacant lot near NE Stanley and E. Collins Street in Depoe Bay. The vehicle was set on fire. The suspects were seen getting into a grey 4 door Toyota and left the area west as reported by a nearby resident.

At approximately 12:51pm, Newport Police spotted a grey Toyota Camry near Don Davis Park in Newport, Oregon. Witnesses reported seeing two men leave the grey Toyota Camry on foot.

During a search of the area, Newport Police spotted a white male adult matching the description of one of the suspects at the intersection Hwy 101 and Hwy 20. The subject was contacted and detained. A short time later, the second male was spotted at Nye Beach and detained as well. A subsequent canvas of the nearby area around the vehicle revealed clothing found in a public trash can that matched the clothing worn by the suspects in the bank.

NPD K9 Officer Magnum and K9 Sly were used to search the area of Don Davis park and its related trails up to Nye Beach. A large backpack matching the description used in the bank robbery was located and seized. A search warrant for the involved Toyota Camry and backpack was applied for and granted. A search of the items located over $50,000 in cash and two weapons.

Franco Armando Mereno Jr. age 37 of Portland and Jonathon F. Schwentner age 43 of Canby were lodged at the Lincoln County Jail and charged with Robbery I, Kidnap II and Aggravated Theft. This incident is under investigation by the Lincoln County Major Crime Team. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, and Toledo Police Department.

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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) issued a cease-and-desist order against Wheels Financial Group LLC, doing business as LoanMart, for facilitating consumer finance loans that exceed the 36 percent interest rate cap under Oregon law. The company agreed to remedy all illegal loans and repay $900,000 in excessive interest charges to Oregon consumers. The order also included fines totaling $660,000 that will be suspended and waived after three years as long as the company complies with the terms of the final order.

From 2019 to 2023, LoanMart solicited and brokered consumer finance loans as part of an arrangement with an out-of-state bank. In what is commonly referred to as a “rent-a-bank” arrangement, LoanMart collected finance charges that ranged from 126 percent to 178 percent interest. In addition, the loan agreements provided for attorney fee provisions that exceeded the permissible scope for consumer finance loans and, under certain circumstances, would have required each borrower to pay attorney fees associated with attorneys who were salaried employees of LoanMart. Finally, the loan agreements contained impermissible hold harmless clauses.

The requirements of the order applied equally to LoanMart’s affiliate, WFG Purchaser LLC. WFG purchased a substantial majority economic interest in the loans at issue and did not hold a consumer finance license, prohibiting them from collecting, receiving, or retaining any interest, fee, or charge related to, or in connection with, the loans.

“Consumer finance companies cannot hide behind out-of-state banks to bypass Oregon’s consumer protection laws,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “We will continue to take steps to police our market to ensure that Oregonians get a fair shake when it comes to borrowing money.”

###

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

The Class of 2025 graduated at a rate of 90.43 percent - an all-time high

January 29, 2026, Hillsboro, OR - Hillsboro School District students reached an impressive milestone in 2025, with 90.43 percent of high school seniors graduating within four years of their first entry into high school. This marks the first time since Oregon began using the cohort graduation rate calculation method in 2008-09 that the district average has been above 90 percent. Three of the district’s five high schools had individual rates above 90 percent: Century, Glencoe, and Liberty. Hillsboro Online Academy reached its highest rate ever, and Hilhi achieved its second-highest rate. The District’s graduation rate is 7.41 percentage points higher than the state average, and 2.88 percentage points higher than last year’s rate of 87.55%. 

Other completers category includes students earning an Adult HS Diploma, Extended Diploma, or GED.

Notable gains were seen in the graduation rates of Students with Disabilities, Students Experiencing Poverty, Students from Underserved Races/Ethnicities, Ever English Learners, and students identifying as Hispanic/Latino and Black, which aligns with the District’s strategic priority to help students achieve success that is not predictable or predetermined by their race, ethnicity, or any other identities. 

Assistant Superintendent Audrea Neville praised the systems and structures the district has put in place and refined over the past few years: “Our on-track work, Career-Technical Education pathways, literacy plans, language supports, and summer school, as well as alternative and supplementary options like the Pathways Center, Oak Street Campus, evening programming, and HIllsboro Online Academy, have had a huge impact on the growth we’ve seen in our 2025 graduation rates.

Our Strategic Plan has created a foundation for our schools and their work, and it is clear that the focal groups of students we have identified are making gains. While we have not completely closed all our opportunity gaps, we are making a difference. 

We are very proud of the work all our students, staff, families, and community have done in partnership, as this journey starts in elementary school and doesn’t end until students graduate.”

###

For disaggregated data, comparison to other districts, and historical data, please refer to the document 2025 comparative grad rates, and to understand more about the cohort graduation rate calculation, please refer to the document understanding graduation rates.

BANK ROBBERY SUSPECTS DETAINED

January 29, 2026 – Lincoln County, OR

At approximately 11:48 am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies, assisted by the Oregon State Police and Newport Police Department, responded to a bank robbery at Columbia Bank in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Two adult males were subsequently located and detained in the Newport area. This incident is still under investigation by the Lincoln County Major Crime Team.

More details will be released once they become available. 

Updated: Correct "hospital" to "highway".

Crook County, Ore. (Jan. 29, 2026)- On Wedenesday, January 28, 2026, at 9:04 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 126, near milepost 7, in Crook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Jeep Cherokee, operated by Aspen Cheyenne Hadley (25) of Bend, crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound Freightliner box truck, operated by Leah Lynn Laforest (35) of Redmond, head-on. 

The operator of the Jeep (Hadley) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

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

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

# # #

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

JUDGE SENTENCES 19-YEAR OLD SERIAL RAPIST TO 45 YEARS PRISON

January 29, 2026

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Benjamin Souede sentenced Damani Jazz Anderson to 45 years in prison today. 

Anderson pled guilty to sexually assaulting five girls and young women, four of them  at gunpoint.

After the sentencing, Senior Deputy District Attorney Robin Skarstad said: “Our community is so grateful for the strength and sacrifice of these five young survivors, who have saved others from harm at the hands of this sexual predator.”

Click on the link below to read our earlier release which has the details of the crimes Anderson pled guilty to today.

https://www.mcda.us/index.php/news/20-year-old-serial-rapist-pleads-guilty-to-multiple-crimes

JUDGE SENTENCES 19-YEAR OLD SERIAL RAPIST TO 45 YEARS PRISON

January 29, 2026

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Benjamin Souede sentenced Damani Jazz Anderson to 45 years in prison today. 

Anderson pled guilty to sexually assaulting five girls and young women, four of them  at gunpoint.

After the sentencing, Senior Deputy District Attorney Robin Skarstad said: “Our community is so grateful for the strength and sacrifice of these five young survivors, who have saved others from harm at the hands of this sexual predator.”

Click on the link below to read our earlier release which has the details of the crimes Anderson pled guilty to today.

https://www.mcda.us/index.php/news/20-year-old-serial-rapist-pleads-guilty-to-multiple-crimes

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 10:39 a.m., deputies responded to a call of a stolen vehicle in the 39900 block of Lacomb Dr. outside of Lebanon.  It was reported that Travis Pressey, 47, of Sweet Home, was driving a 1990 Green Honda CRX, which he had stolen earlier in the week from the Sweet Home area. 

When the caller, who knew the owner of the Honda, confronted Pressey, he allegedly pointed a gun at the caller.  Pressey then took off in the stolen Honda headed toward Lacomb.  Deputies quickly arrived and started searching the Lacomb area for Pressey and the stolen Honda.  The Honda was located in a driveway and Pressey attempted to leave in the vehicle, but it was out of gas.  Pressey then fled on foot into a wooded area.  K9 Juice was deployed and tracked Pressey down.  K9 Juice bit Pressey in the arm while apprehending him.  Pressey was taken into custody and found to be in possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl. 

Pressey sustained minor injuries to his upper arm and was evaluated by Lebanon Medics on scene.  Pressey was then transported to the Linn County Jail where he was booked on the following charges: Felony Attempt to Elude x2, Misdemeanor Attempt to Elude, Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering Another, Possession of Controlled Substance-Methamphetamine, Possession of Controlled Substance-Fentanyl, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Unlawful Use of a Firearm, Menacing, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.  Pressey also had a felony warrant for a weapons offense, and a Lebanon Municipal Court warrant for Fail to Appear on a Fail to Perform Duties of a Driver (Hit and Run.)  The investigation continues and Pressey is facing additional charges to other cases.

As Pressey was reported to be in possession of a firearm, deputies and K9 Juice searched the area for the gun.  As it got dark and the brush was thick, deputies were unable to find the gun that evening.  The Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) was called the following morning to do a thorough search of the area he was apprehended.  The SAR team found a .22 caliber revolver near where Pressey was apprehended. 

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Lebanon Rural Fire District.

We have had several inquiries about the decision today by the Federal Court of Appeals. 

Here is our response- if you need to quote someone please quote me or a spokesperson for the office etc:

This is a procedural case that is prone to misunderstanding. A person filing a lawsuit can allege any fact they want in their complaint. At the motion to dismiss stage, the court must assume that all facts in the complaint are true. The plaintiff in this case alleged that former DDA Kalbaugh knowingly made false statements in an arrest warrant application. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s office believes this allegation to be false and has every confidence that former DDA Kalbaugh will prevail on the merits if plaintiffs seek to refile their claim. Neither the District Court nor the Ninth Circuit has found that DDA Kalbaugh knowingly made false statements. Today’s decision only states that, if plaintiffs wish to pursue this matter, they can attempt to prove their allegations. We firmly believe they will not be able to do so, because that is not what happened in this case.

Pat Dooris

Director of Communications

Multnomah County District Attorney's Office

The City of Battle Ground proudly announces the upcoming 75th anniversary of its incorporation — a milestone marking seven and a half decades of community growth, shared heritage, and forward-looking progress. On June 18, 1951, the Town of Battle Ground was officially incorporated with a population of just 742 residents, setting the foundation for a vibrant city that now thrives with tens of thousands of residents and businesses. 

“We are thrilled to honor 75 years of cityhood — a story of community spirit, civic pride, and endless potential,” said Eric Overholser, Mayor of Battle Ground. “This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of our history — it’s a celebration of the shared legacy Battle Ground is creating each and every day.”

A Year-Long Celebration Begins

Throughout 2026, the City will host a series of community engagement activities, events, and experiences designed to honor the past, highlight the present, and inspire the future. While specific activities are still being finalized, the celebration will focus on:

• Celebrating Our History – Sharing stories, milestones, and achievements from Battle Ground’s journey from a small town to a thriving city. 
• Community Involvement – Encouraging residents of all ages to participate in events that showcase the heart of our city — our people.
• Looking Forward – Highlighting visions, plans, and ideas that will carry Battle Ground into its next chapter.

This anniversary also provides a unique opportunity to learn more about how Battle Ground got its name — inspired by an 1855 encounter between early settlers and members of the Klickitat tribe that, despite expectations of conflict, resulted in peace and left a lasting mark on local history. 

Stay Connected — Be Part of the Story

Details about anniversary events and ways to participate will be shared throughout the year on the City’s official website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to follow along for announcements, event schedules, volunteer opportunities, and special highlights.

“We are excited to share this milestone with our residents and community partners,” shared Alisha Smith, Communications Manager.  “This anniversary is about coming together, and we invite everyone to take part in the celebration throughout the year.

Visit www.cityofbg.org/BG75 to explore Battle Ground’s history and sign up for updates. Follow the City on Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest on upcoming activities and ways to get involved.

All Colton Schools will be closed on Monday, February 2, 2026, due to continued high absenteeism.  Essential staff will report on Monday to clean all buildings.

Salem, Ore. — With funding for bridge strengthening from the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond projects, four local bridges are no longer load restricted.

The City installed additional reinforcement to strengthen four local bridges at 15th Street NE, 17th Street NE and Liberty Street NE over Mill Creek and the Mission Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek. 

Previously, the weight of vehicles that could safely pass over the bridges, including some emergency vehicles, was restricted.  But now, after these improvements, the strengthened bridges enhance public safety and reduce emergency response times, especially near Salem Hospital. The work also allows large freight vehicles to access the bridges, shortening travel times. 

Construction was completed in December 2025.

January 29, 2026

Contact: Amy Coven, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov, 503-943-0164

More than 118,000 people in Oregon signed up for Marketplace coverage in 2026

Salem, OR — During the 2026 Open Enrollment period, 118,372 people in Oregon enrolled in health coverage through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, which offers private health insurance for those who don’t have coverage through their employer, Medicaid or Medicare. Nearly 60 percent of enrollees who applied for financial assistance received help in 2026, compared to 80 percent in 2025. While enrollment dipped about 15 percent resulting in 21,316 fewer people obtaining coverage through the Marketplace, the fact that most re-enrolled indicates people in Oregon continue to value access to quality health care.

At the same time, 2026 enrollment patterns highlight growing challenges. The expiration of federal enhanced federal premium tax credits resulted in higher costs for many consumers, particularly middle-income households that no longer qualified for the same level of financial support. Individuals with incomes between 200-400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level saw premium increases of $90-$165. Marketplace enrollment partners reported that increased premiums led some individuals and families to delay enrollment, select plans with higher out-of-pocket costs, or forgo coverage altogether.

“We continue to see how critical financial assistance is in helping people get and stay covered,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Marketplace. “As enhanced premium tax credits expired, many people in Oregon faced difficult choices about affordability. Even so, thousands took steps to protect their health and financial security by enrolling in coverage.”

Although the 2026 Open Enrollment period ended Jan. 15, 2026, the Marketplace remains focused on closing coverage gaps and advancing health equity by supporting hard-to-reach communities and ensuring each person in Oregon understand their health coverage options.

The Marketplace encourages individuals who secured coverage for 2026 to:

• Pay their first month’s premium so their health coverage fully activates;
• Review their health plan’s provider network to confirm their preferred doctors and clinics are covered--if preferred providers are no longer in-network, their insurance company can help identify nearby providers accepting new patients;
• Schedule no-cost preventive services, such as annual checkups, vaccinations, and recommended screenings; and
• Explore available benefits, including mental health services, reproductive health care, and prescription drug savings.

Individuals with questions about their health plan are encouraged to contact their insurance company directly for personalized assistance. Contact information can be found in member booklets or on the back of insurance cards.

For those who missed the Open Enrollment deadline, coverage options may still be available. People who experience qualifying life events--such as moving, losing other health coverage, having or adopting a child, getting married, a change in citizenship or immigration status, or being released from incarceration--may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. In addition, enrolled Tribal members, Alaska Natives, and individuals with lower incomes may apply for health coverage year-round.

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29 de enero de 2026

Contacto: Amy Coven, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov, 503-943-0164

Más de 118,000 Personas en Oregon se Inscribieron para Obtener Cobertura a Través del Mercado de Seguros Médicos en 2026

Salem, OR — Durante el período de inscripción abierta de 2026, 118,372 personas en Oregon se inscribieron en cobertura de salud a través del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon, que ofrece seguros privados para quienes no cuentan con cobertura a través de su empleador, Medicaid o Medicare. Casi el 60 por ciento de las personas inscritas que solicitaron ayuda financiera la recibieron en 2026, en comparación con el 80 por ciento en 2025. Aunque la inscripción disminuyó aproximadamente un 15 por ciento, lo que significó que 21,316 personas menos obtuvieron cobertura a través del Mercado, el hecho de que la mayoría se reinscribiera indica que los habitantes de Oregon siguen valorando el acceso a la atención médica de calidad.

Al mismo tiempo, las tendencias de inscripción para 2026 ponen de manifiesto desafíos crecientes. El vencimiento de los créditos fiscales federales mejorados para primas de seguros médicos provocó costos más altos para muchos consumidores, en particular para los hogares de ingresos medios que ya no cumplían con los requisitos para recibir el mismo nivel de ayuda financiera. Las personas con ingresos entre el 200 por ciento y el 400 por ciento del Nivel Federal de Pobreza experimentaron aumentos en las primas de entre $90 y $165. Los socios comunitarios que ayudan con la inscripción del Mercado de seguros informaron que el aumento de las primas llevó a algunas personas y familias a retrasar la inscripción, a elegir planes con mayores gastos de bolsillo o a renunciar por completo a la cobertura.

“Seguimos viendo lo fundamental que es la ayuda financiera para que las personas obtengan y mantengan su cobertura de salud”, declaró Chiqui Flowers, directora del Mercado de Seguros Médicos. “Con la expiración de los créditos fiscales mejorados para primas de seguros, muchas personas en Oregon se enfrentaron a decisiones difíciles en cuanto a la asequibilidad. Aun así, miles de personas tomaron medidas para proteger su salud y su seguridad financiera inscribiéndose en un plan de cobertura de salud”.

Aunque el período de inscripción abierta de 2026 finalizó el 15 de enero de 2026, el Mercado de Seguros Médicos sigue enfocado en reducir las interrupciones de cobertura y promover la equidad en la atención médica, apoyando a las comunidades de difícil acceso y garantizando que cada persona en Oregon comprenda sus opciones de seguros médicos.

El Mercado de Seguros Médicos recomienda a las personas que obtuvieron cobertura para 2026 que:

• Paguen la prima del primer mes para que su cobertura médica se active por completo;
• Revisen la red de proveedores de su plan de salud para confirmar que sus médicos y clínicas de preferencia estén cubiertos; si sus proveedores preferidos ya no forman parte de la red, su compañía de seguros puede ayudarles a encontrar proveedores cercanos que acepten nuevos pacientes;
• Programen servicios preventivos gratuitos, como chequeos anuales, vacunas y exámenes de detección recomendados; y
• Exploren los beneficios disponibles, incluidos los servicios de salud mental, atención de salud reproductiva y descuentos en medicamentos recetados.

Se recomienda a las personas que tengan preguntas sobre su plan de salud que se comuniquen directamente con su compañía de seguros para obtener asistencia personalizada. La información de contacto se encuentra en los folletos para miembros o en el reverso de las tarjetas de seguro.

Para quienes no se inscribieron durante el período de inscripción abierta, aún puede haber opciones de cobertura disponibles. Las personas que experimentan eventos de vida calificados – como mudarse, perder otra cobertura de salud, tener o adoptar un hijo, casarse, un cambio en la ciudadanía o el estatus migratorio, o salir de prisión, pueden calificar para un período de inscripción especial. Además, los miembros de tribus indígenas, los nativos de Alaska y las personas con bajos ingresos pueden solicitar cobertura médica durante todo el año.

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TAX SEASON SCAMS

Many are working on their Federal and State taxes now that tax season has opened. As you prepare your taxes, be aware of scammers and suspicious activity. One tax scam includes scammers claiming to be from the IRS telling you that you are due a federal tax refund. They then direct you to a website that appears to be a genuine IRS site. The bogus site steals your information and even contains forms or interactive web pages similar to IRS. Don’t be fooled! These sites and forms have been modified to request detailed personal and financial information from the recipients. Other tax related scams can include claiming you need to pay late fees or back taxes to a suspicious recipient or in untraditional payment forms such as BitCoin, giftcards, through a third-party website or unsecured, etc.

The IRS does not send out unsolicited emails or ask for detailed personal information. Additionally, they do not ask people for their PIN numbers, passwords or similar private access information for their credit card, bank, or other financial accounts. The IRS primarily uses the mail when they need to notify you regarding any tax-related matter. They do not phone you late at night, or text you.
 

More Information and Resources
 

• For more information on phishing (suspicious emails) and identity theft, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov.
• For information on preventing or handling the aftermath of identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission Web sites at http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft and www.OnGuardOnline.gov.
• Report Fraud - Federal Trade Commission: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov./#/
• Report Scams and Fraud - Oregon Department of Justice: https://www.doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection/sales-scams-fraud/report-scams-fraud/
• Internet Crime Compliant Center - FBI: https://www.ic3.gov/

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Woodland, WA - For Max Koistinen, engineering isn’t just about calculations and blueprints—it’s about legacy, community, and the practical application of a lifelong passion for mathematics. A second-year student at Lower Columbia College (LCC), Max was recently named the 2025-26 recipient of the James A. Nelson Woodland Friends of LCC Endowed Scholarship, an honor that recognizes his academic excellence and commitment to his hometown of Woodland.

A Foundation Built on Family

Max’s journey to the world of Mechanical Engineering began long before he stepped onto the LCC campus. Growing up as the youngest of 11 children, he found his greatest inspiration within his own home. With parents married for over 45 years, providing a bedrock of values, Max watched his older siblings blaze trails in higher education.

“My siblings have been a huge inspiration for me,” Max shares. “Two of my brothers have Bachelor’s degrees, one in Mechanical Engineering and the other in Computer Science. Talking with them gave me the confidence to try engineering.”

This familial support, combined with a natural aptitude for math that saw him taking advanced courses as early as middle school, set the stage for his current success. By the time he began the Running Start program in high school, he had already cleared the prerequisites for complex engineering coursework.

Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Community

Currently maintaining a 3.7 GPA in the MRP Civil/Mechanical Engineering program, Max is a student who believes in "learning by doing." While many students wait until after graduation to enter the workforce, Max is already gaining hands-on industry experience at Alpine Engineers LLC.

At Alpine, Max contributes to HVAC projects that directly impact the local infrastructure. This role allows him to see the immediate, tangible results of his studies. Whether he is volunteering at his local church or optimizing building systems, Max’s goal remains the same: to use his technical training to serve the community that raised him.

The Road Ahead: A Five-Year Vision

The James A. Nelson Woodland Friends of LCC Scholarship provides more than just financial relief; it offers the stability necessary for Max to focus on his rigorous path toward professional licensure. His roadmap for the future is clear:

1. Graduate in June 2026 with his degree from LCC.

2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

3. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam to become an Engineer-in-Training.

4. Achieve Professional Engineer status in Washington after completing four years of supervised experience.

"I have always understood that work would be a huge part of my life," says Max. "I wanted my job to be something thought-provoking rather than something I do for money. I find mathematics and how it can be applied fascinating."

The Impact of Local Support

Max is one of the many success stories made possible by the Lower Columbia College Foundation. The James A. Nelson Woodland Friends of LCC Scholarship was established in 2015 with the collaborative efforts of Woodland High School, a group of Woodland community members, including Tim Welch and Lee Hutton-Welch, Tom Golik, Benno and Klazina Dobbe, Ron Nelson, and Woodland Rotary. In 2019, a very generous endowment gift from James “Jimmy” Nelson ensured scholarship opportunities for Woodland community members would be provided into perpetuity. The scholarship will be awarded to LCC students who live in Woodland or Kalama, attend LCC full-time, and have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Priority given to Woodland High School graduating seniors. This year alone, the Foundation provided 310 scholarships totaling over $665,000. For students like Max, these awards are the catalyst that turns academic dreams into professional realities.

As Max continues his studies and his work at Alpine Engineers, he carries with him the support of the Woodland community and the legacy of the James A. Nelson Scholarship. He isn't just studying to build machines; he's studying to build a better future for the Pacific Northwest.

RELEASE DATE:               Jan. 27, 2026

CASE UPDATE:                 Jan. 29, 2026

CASE NUMBER:                26-4081

Caleb has been located

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

Caleb Paris left his home in the 1300 block of NE Hogan Dr. at approximately 6 p.m. this evening. He is described as a White male with curly brown hair, is 5-feet and 10-inches tall and weighs 240 pounds.  Caleb was last seen wearing a light-colored button-up shirt and gray sweatpants. He was also wearing black over-the-ear headphones. Caleb’s family is concerned about his well-being because of statements he made indicating he may harm himself.

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

#30

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is offering grants for qualified historic cemeteries. The annual grants fund projects that preserve historic cemeteries. Projects funded in the past include marker repair workshops, fencing, signs, interpretive panels and brochures, security lighting, access improvements, records management, and more.
 

Awards typically range between $1,000 and $8,000, but have been higher. Anyone may apply for a grant. Projects must be related to historic cemeteries listed with the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries. Recent projects include marker repair and workshops in several cemeteries, installations of signs and informational kiosks, a preservation plan, and a fence replacement.
 

“Our goal is to preserve Oregon’s historic cemeteries and offer support throughout the application process,” said historic cemeteries program coordinator Kuri Gill.
 

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support.  A free, online workshop specific to this grant and how to use the online grant application system will be offered February 24, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Registration is required. Recorded trainings and tips are also online.
 

State law established the seven-member historic cemeteries commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. These grants support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan and the Oregon Heritage Plan. To learn more about the grants or workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional information, translation, and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

Salem, Ore. – The deadline is nearing to submit nominees, individuals or groups, from Marion, Polk and Linn counties for the 2026 ILEAD Impact Awards. The awards will be presented at the ILEAD Youth Leadership Summit on March 7.

Submit your nominees by February 3.

ILEAD is an annual one-day Youth Leadership Summit for high schoolers living in the Mid-Willamette Valley. This free event is managed by the City of Salem's Safe and Healthy Communities Outreach – Opioid Prevention and coordinated by a planning committee of stakeholders alongside a youth committee. The mission is to encourage, empower and better equip teens to lead positive change in their lives, their schools and their community.

The ILEAD Impact Awards celebrate the great work being done in our community around youth leadership development and volunteerism, teen opportunity development, teen-to-teen advocacy and voice, and youth health and wellbeing focuses.

There are three award categories: 

1. the Youth Leader Impact Award,
2. the Youth Program Impact Award
3. the Adult Leader Impact Award.

Anyone in Marion, Polk or Linn county can submit nominations.

You can submit as many nominations as you wish. Click the link again if you have more than one to submit in the same category. Each selected nominee, group or individual, will receive an engraved medal.

Impact Awards are sponsored by the City of Salem - Opioid Prevention and Marion County Health and Human Services - Health Promotion and Prevention Services.

Online

Web pages: ILEAD Youth Leadership Summit and Summit Registration

Instagram: @ileadyouthsummit 

Facebook:  Facebook.com/ILEADoregon 

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The Clackamas Fire District Board of Directors will hold a Work Session on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. The agenda for the work session includes a Strategic Planning Workshop. 

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, February 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/. 

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at Station 5 (9339 SE Causey Ave., Happy Valley, OR 97086). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please visit the Clackamas Fire District website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/. 

Eisner Award-winning author visits campus as part of the 2025-26 Columbia Writers Series

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Clark College Columbia Writers Series will continue its 2025-26 season with comic journalist Joe Sacco, the Eisner Award-winning author known for his works in nonfiction comics. Sacco is the author of Footnotes in Gaza, for which he received the Ridenhour Book Prize, as well as Paying the Land, Palestine Journalism, Safe Area Goražde, and other books.

This free event, which is open to the public, will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, in Penguin Union Building (PUB) Room 258 B/C on Clark College’s main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.

Sacco practices investigative journalism through nonfiction comics, reporting from war zones and areas of political conflict, including the Gulf War, the occupied Palestinian territories, and Bosnia. His latest book, The Once and Future Riot, published in October 2025, examines the political violence that led to the 2013 Muzaffarnagar Riot in India. His work has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Guardian, and Harper’s Magazine. 

A 1981 journalism graduate from the University of Oregon, Sacco founded the satirical comics magazine Portland Permanent Press in 1985 before working at The Comics Journal as a staff news writer. He lives in Portland, Oregon. 

Event details 

Time: Thursday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. – noon

Location: Penguin Union Building (PUB) 258 B/C, Clark College main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98683

Parking: Green or Red lots—view online campus map and directions here.

Accommodations: If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu

All are welcome. Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Upcoming Columbia Writers Series Events

Emma Pattee, climate journalist & fiction writer, May 12, 2026, 10 a.m.

Emma Pattee has written about climate change for The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and other publications. Her debut novel, Tilt, is a New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice, a USA Today Bestseller, a Best Book of 2025 for Vogue, and an NPR favorite fiction read of 2025.

Camille Dungy, author and poet, May 14, 2026, 1 p.m.
Camille Dungy is the author of Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden, which was named book of the month by Hudsons Booksellers, received the 2024 Award of Excellence in Garden and Nature Writing from The Council on Botanical and Horticultural Libraries, and was on the short list for the PEN/Jean Stein Award. Dungy has also written four collections of poetry and the essay collection, Guidebook to Relative Strangers: Journeys into Race, Motherhood, and History.

About Clark’s Columbia Writers Series

The Columbia Writers Series aims to enrich the intellectual and cultural life of Clark College by providing a platform for literature and the arts. Since 1988, the series has brought a diverse array of local, national, and international authors to the campus and the community. Learn more about the Columbia Writers Series.

About Clark College

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves over 8,500 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college. 

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Update
 

Mr. Hart has been located and is safe. 

Vancouver Police Department's investigators are requesting public's assistance in locating James "Jim" Hart.  Hart is a seventy-seven-year-old white male. Hart is approximately 6'1" tall and weighs approximately (177) pounds.  He has green eyes and is bald.  Hart was  last seen wearing a tan baseball cap, plaid shirt and had a blanket over him.

Hart was last seen on January 28, 2026 at the Hampton Alzheimers Community Assisted Living facility located at 1617 SE Talton Ave in the City of Vancouver, WA. 

Hart's photograph is attached to this news release.  

Citizens with information regarding Hart's latest whereabouts are asked to contact Vancouver Police Department's dispatch center.

Associated case number is 2026-001877.