CORVALLIS, Ore. – Effective immediately, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) will no longer offer fingerprinting services on Thursdays. Instead, non-criminal fingerprinting will now be available only on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

This service, provided by BCSO volunteer reserve deputies, is intended for purposes such as employment, licensing, and volunteer work. It does not apply to concealed handgun licensing, which remains unchanged.

Fingerprinting is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with only one appointment allowed inside the office at a time while others wait outside. No entries will be accepted after 9:00 a.m.

What to Bring:

• Valid Photo ID – Government-issued identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
• Social Security Number – Card not required, but you must know your number.
• Payment – $20.00 for the first set of prints (card provided by BCSO) and $5.00 for each additional copy. All proceeds support the Reserve Deputy Program. Payments accepted: credit card, debit card, exact-change cash, or checks made out to “BCSOR.”
• Location – BCSO Concealed Handgun License Office, 180 NW 5th St, Corvallis, OR 97330.
• Plan Ahead – Check for closure dates before visiting: BCSO Fingerprinting Services.

Interested in serving your community? Learn more about the BCSO Reserve Deputy Program here: Reserve Deputy Program.

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The Sandy Fire District Board of Directors will hold a regular board meeting on Wednesday, August 20, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items include regular monthly division reports.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, please sign up by completing the Sandy Fire District Public Meeting Comments form by Wednesday, August 20^th, at 2:00 p.m.

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Sandy Fire District Station 71 Annex building (17459 Bruns Ave., Sandy, OR 97055). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Sandy Fire’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://sandyfire.org/about/board. 

It’s been a busy morning on Clark County freeways—and not in a good way. 

Firefighters with Clark County Fire District 6 earlier responded to a dump truck rollover crash on I-205, near the 134^th Street exit. The crash involved the dump truck and a red Honda SUV, and happened at about 9:30 this morning. Although the vehicles were not blocking the freeway, the crash still locked up I-205 in both directions. One witness said the truck blew a tire and went off the road. 

There were no serious injuries. The dump truck driver said he had just fueled the truck and it contained about 100 gallons of diesel. Fortunately, CCFD6 crew were able to stop the fuel leak, as well as an antifreeze leak.  The fluids will likely be drained before the truck is removed.

Prior to this crash our crews responded to a four-car wreck on I-5 southbound, just south of the Fairgrounds exit. After that they doused a car fire on I-5 south farther north.

I-5 southbound has been troublesome since an early morning crash on the I-5 bridge.

Despite a herculean effort from numerous rescue agencies, a 16-year-old swimmer drowned last night in the Columbia River at Frenchman’s bar.

According to witnesses, the 16 year old was swimming towards a nearby wing dam in the river when he suddenly went underwater and failed to resurface. They estimated he was about 20 yards offshore at the time.

At the same time, Vancouver Fire was called to a two-alarm fire, so resources were stretched thin. The Battalion Chief from Clark County Fire District 6, along with Vancouver Fire Engine 3 and Fireboat 1 self-assigned to the report of a possible drowning. 

In addition to those agencies, rescuers from Clark-Cowlitz Fire and Rescue, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, the Vancouver Police Department, the Clark County Technical Rescue Team, Portland Fire and Rescue and the U.S. Coast Guard searched for the missing swimmer. In all, four boats, 7 rescue swimmers, one helicopter and multiple fire engines and squads participated in the search.

Despite their best efforts, by 9 p.m. the situation shifted from a rescue to a recovery operation. The identity of the drowning victim will be released at a later date. 

Conditions in the Columbia River at Frenchman’s Bar are known to be treacherous, and authorities urge caution for those who choose to swim there. The current is swift in this section of the river and there is a large drop-off just offshore. Historically there have been a number of drownings in this part of the river.

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

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

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

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

Last week the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to two separate fatal motor vehicle collisions. 

On 8/14/2025 at approximately 1822 hrs Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Deputies were dispatched to a collision between a truck and a motorcycle resulting in significant injuries to the Motorcycle rider near the 3900 block of NE 78^th Street, Vancouver, WA.  The injured rider was transported to PeaceHealth hospital where they later succumbed to their injuries. CCSO Traffic Homicide Detectives were called out to investigate the scene.  Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the collision. 

On 8/15/2025 at approximately 0916 hrs Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO)  Deputies were dispatched to a collision between a truck and a pedestrian resulting in significant injuries at the Fred Meyer at 7700 NE Highway 99, Vancouver, WA. The injured pedestrian was transported to PeaceHealth hospital where they later succumbed to their injuries. CCSO Traffic Homicide Detectives will be investigating the incident.  Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the collision. 

Both cases remain active pending further investigation by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit and Patrol Division.   Additional information may be released at a later date, pending further investigation.  

City of Cornelius to Host Traditional Push-In Ceremony for New Fire Engine

The City of Cornelius, together with the Cornelius Fire Department and the Cornelius Rural Fire Protection District, is excited to announce the arrival of our newest fire engine, Engine 8. This state-of-the-art apparatus will officially be placed into service during a special dedication ceremony on Saturday, August 23, at 10:00 a.m.

To celebrate this exciting addition, the community is invited to attend a Push-In Ceremony, a time-honored tradition in the fire service that dates back to the 1800s. In the days of horse-drawn fire equipment, firefighters would manually push their wagons back into the station after returning from a call. Today, this symbolic act represents unity, dedication, and the welcoming of new apparatus into service.

We encourage all who live, work, or recreate in our community to join us for this meaningful event.  Everyone in attendance will be taking part in a piece of fire service history.

Event Details:
What: Engine 8 Push-In Ceremony
When: Saturday, August 23, 2025 – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Cornelius Fire Station,  1311 N Barlow St, Cornelius, Or. 97113

We look forward to seeing you there!

At 7:27 p.m. this evening, an alert neighbor walking by a home in the 1100 block of SE 65^th Avenue in Hillsboro called 911 to report large flames and dark black smoke coming from the home's front windows. The neighbor knocked on the door to alert the residents but didn't receive an answer. As firefighters responded, dispatchers upgraded the call to a first alarm. Given the heavy fire and smoke reports, additional firefighting units were added to the call.

The first arriving fire engine confirmed active fire from the home's front windows and initiated a fire attack. The company officer conducted a 360-degree exterior assessment of the structure and reported that the fire was only coming from the front of the home. The next arriving engine companies were tasked with completing a search of the house to look for any occupants that may have been inside. Firefighters searched both home floors, and no occupants or pets were found. Firefighters from the truck company located and secured utilities to the house to help de-energize power and shut off gas to the home for the safety of firefighters working to extinguish the fire. They then provided ventilation to the structure to help clear smoke and heated gas and improve working conditions for firefighters. Firefighters knocked down the fire within twelve minutes and spent additional time searching for and extinguishing hot spots. Additionally, firefighters helped to retrieve and salvage essential belongings for the homeowner.

A Hillsboro Fire investigator responded to the incident, and a fire investigation is ongoing. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.  

Public safety chaplains responded to the scene to support and assist the residents. No one was home at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. However, the fire displaced two adults.

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted by Hillsboro Police, AMR Ambulance, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Portland General Electric, and Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains.

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

The second victim remains under medical care.

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

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

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

On Sunday around 1pm, firefighters were dispatched to a pickup truck fire threatening a travel trailer and starting a grass fire on the 32000 block of Berlin Rd. Crews quickly deployed hose lines down a steep driveway, knocked down the flames, and prevented major damage to the trailer. Two propane tanks were damaged, venting flames; firefighters used a protective fog hose pattern that shielded them from the flames so they could turn off the valves. The family escaped with most of their pets prior to our arrival, but there were still two cats missing. Firefighter entered the trailer to check on the cats and found them doing what cats do best- hiding, but safe and unharmed. The trailer itself sustained minimal interior damage.  The fire appears to have started near a portable generator in the bed of the truck.  The cause is still under investigation. 

Three hours later, firefighters assisted Lebanon Police with a person in distress in the canal near Oak Street and South Main Street. The individual, who was experiencing medical and cognitive challenges, had jumped in the water and was unable to get out. Rescuers entered the water and brought the man safely to shore. He was treated and transported to Lebanon Community Hospital.

No responders were injured in either incident. Lebanon Fire would like to thank Albany Fire and Sweet Home Fire for covering the district and responding to calls while LFD was engaged in these two incidents.

The Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to use caution around rivers and canals, as cold water, even in summer, can quickly lower the body’s temperature.  Life jackets should be worn in the water and can be borrowed and returned at LFD’s kiosks at Gill’s Landing and Waterloo Park.

In August 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies conducting ongoing online child luring investigations posing as underage children on various social media platforms were contacted by 48-year-old Eric White of Corvallis, OR.

On 08/04/2025, Mr. White contacted an LCSO decoy account and engaged in sexually explicit conversations and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting for illegal sexual encounters.

Then on 08/15/2025, Mr. White contacted a second LCSO decoy account and engaged in sexually explicit conversations and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting for illegal sexual encounters.

On 08/18/2025, Lincoln County Deputies arrested Mr. White after he traveled to Newport, OR to meet with both decoy accounts in a hotel room. Mr. White is charged with three counts of Luring a Minor and three counts of Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree and remains in custody at the Lincoln County Jail.

This arrest highlights the continued success of focused enforcement efforts aimed at identifying and stopping individuals who seek to exploit children online before any harm is done. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office remains deeply committed to safeguarding children and ensuring offenders are brought to justice.

We urge parents and guardians to stay actively involved in their children’s online lives and to foster open, ongoing conversations about the dangers of interacting with strangers on the internet. By combining education, awareness, and strong law enforcement, we can build a safer community for every child.

ODOT WORK ZONES
 

As you gear up for that final summer road trip or just make your way home from work, you may run into roadwork and traffic delays. That may mean reduced speed limits and traffic delays in work zones. Did you know 4 out of 5 work zone crash victims are NOT the workers? It is actually the drivers and their passengers traveling through the work zone areas. Inattention and speed are the most common causes of work zone crashes.

Work zones are dangerous for everyone even when workers are not visible. That is why Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) lowers the speed limits in work zones. Exceeding work zone speed limits can be especially hazardous for numerous reasons:

• Traffic patterns may change day to day
• Roads may be rough, uneven or covered with debris
• Temporary lanes may be narrow with abrupt edges
• Roadside equipment may obstruct views

Commuters are often caught off guard by work zone hazards. Distracted driving and driving over the speed limit reduces the necessary reaction time to avoid a crash. When you see orange signs, cones, and barrels on the roadway, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION! Those are your clues to be prepared for unexpected obstacles and stopped or slowing cars. Slow down, stay alert, and avoid distractions.

For more information about work zone safety, go to ODOT's website at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/Safety/Pages/Work-Zone.aspx  

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

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08/18/2025

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the name of the adult in custody who died on August 16th, 2025, now that the next of kin notifications have been completed.

The deceased is 51-year-old Chad William Scott. He was booked into custody on August 15, 2025.

The death investigation, and additional medical examiner’s investigation, are ongoing. When the ME’s investigation is complete, cause and manner of death can be made publicly available. Because of the time required to complete toxicology analysis, these investigations typically take up to three months to be completed for public release.

No further comment will be made at this time.

08/17/2025

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail.

Shortly before 5:30 p.m., on August 16, 2025, deputies discovered an adult in custody who was unresponsive. Deputies and Corrections Health personnel administered lifesaving measures. Paramedics continued medical care. Despite these efforts, the adult in custody was pronounced deceased by the paramedics.

In accordance with standard protocol, the East County Major Crimes Team was activated to initiate a death investigation. The death investigation is being completed with the support of the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The age and identity of the adult in custody can be released after next of kin notifications are completed. The cause and manner of death can be made publicly available when the Medical Examiner concludes their death investigation.

No further comment will be made at this time.

Incident: Armed Robbery                                         

Location: 617 SW Bay Blvd, Newport 

Date/Time: August 15, 2025 @ 1801 hours

Details: On August 15^th, 2025, at 1801 hours Newport Officers responded to 617 SW Bay Blvd on a report of an armed robbery that had just occurred. Officers learned the victim was in the parking lot when he was approached by a Honda CRV occupied by four males wearing masks. One of the males in the vehicle displayed a firearm, pointed it at the victim, and ordered the victim to enter the vehicle. The victim entered the vehicle. The other males inside of the vehicle were also wearing masks and displayed firearms to the victim.

The suspect males ordered the victim to give them all of his money. The victim complied and gave them a large sum of cash. The victim was able to exit the vehicle, and took a picture of the vehicle as It drove away. Officers searched for the vehicle but were not able to locate it at that time.

At 1921 hours, the suspect vehicle was located by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office on Philomath Blvd in Corvallis. Benton County Deputies contacted and detained three suspects who were in the vehicle. Newport Officers responded to Corvallis and completed a search warrant for the vehicle and suspects. Officers recovered evidence of the crime of robbery, including clothing, weapons and the victim’s stolen money.

The following subjects were arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for the following crimes:

Jonathan Olvera Duran, 18, (Portland)

• Robbery in the First Degree
• Theft in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of Weapon
• Coercion
• Menacing

Manuel Felipe, 18, (Portland)

• Robbery in the First Degree
• Theft in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of Weapon
• Coercion
• Menacing

Miguel Interian Sosa, 18, (Portland)

• Robbery in the First Degree
• Theft in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of Weapon
• Coercion
• Menacing

The Newport Police Department would like to thank the Benton County Sheriff’s Office and the Philomath Police Department for their assistance.

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

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

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JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 20, 2025)- On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 2:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 99, near milepost 8, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Ranger, operated by Katrina Ann Knight (59) of Grants Pass, left the roadway for unknown reasons, rolled, and struck a utility pole.

The operator of the Ford (Knight) was declared deceased at the scene. 

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 20, 2025)- On Monday, August 18, 2025, at 1:03 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 26, at the intersection with Orient Drive, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound GMC Savannah, operated by Ivan Bahena (46) of Gresham, reportedly experienced a mechanical failure and rear ended a Honda Fit, operated by Bryan Ray Robinson (48) of Sandy, that was slowing to stop for the traffic light at the intersection with Orient Drive. The collision pushed the Honda into an eastbound Infinity QX5, operated by Cassandra Lea Bellingham (52) of Portland, that was stopped at the traffic light. 

The operator of the Honda (Robinson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the GMC (Bahena) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Infinity (Bellingham) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

BAKER COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 19, 2025)- On Monday, August 18, 2025, at 5:48 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 221, in Baker County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Kawasaki Ninja, operated by Michael Allen Klaus (74) of Stanfield, lost control and slid into the westbound ditch. 

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

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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.

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 18, 2025)- On Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2:21 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 45, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Suzuki GSXR-1000, operated by Tony James Gonzalez (52) of Molalla, failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway for unknown reasons and struck the guardrail. 

The operator of the Suzuki (Gonzalez) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Estacada Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 16, 2025) – On Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 9:49 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 145 in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a silver Honda Accord, operated by Felicia Devin Nicholson (33) of Bend, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 97 near milepost 145 when it drifted across the center line for an unknown reason and struck a southbound silver Honda Odyssey, operated by Earl Leone Christison IV (46) of Oregon City.

The operator of the Accord (Nicholson) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Odyssey (Earl Christison) was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.

Odyssey passenger Erin Ruth Christison (45) of Oregon City was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

Four female juvenile passengers (ages 17, 14, 11, and 9) in the Odyssey were also transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Sunriver Police Department, and multiple area emergency medical service responders.
 

# # #
 

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

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (Aug. 14, 2025)- On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:41 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 126, near milepost 0, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Jan Dwight McSilvers (72) of Springfield, failed to negotiate a curve and left the roadway. The motorcycle rolled on top of the operator after exiting the roadway.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (McSilvers) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Black Butte EMS and ODOT.

# # #

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

Portland Fire crews were off to a busy start of a Sunday morning in the NW District, with a working apartment fire coming in just before 9am, and minutes later reports of a fire in a nearby high rise. The initial fire, located at 1233 NW 23^rd and Overton is a two-story apartment building, over garages. When Engine 3 arrived, they reported heavy fire and grey smoke coming from a second-story window, with a person trapped. Engine 3 went quickly into offensive fire attack mode, pulling hose lines directly to the target apartment, making an aggressive attack on the fire. Meanwhile Truck 3 raised a ladder to the second story window for a VEIS operation (vent/enter/isolate/search) to rapidly and safely extricate the victim from the apartment (see attached pictures). Once the victim was rescued through the window and down the ladder, the severity of their condition required immediate transport. The responding AMR ambulance was still 10 minutes away, so Squad 1 made the decision to immediately transport the patient in their apparatus. The patient is reported in serious condition with smoke inhalation and burns, and they are being transferred to the Burn Center at Emanuel Hospital. During that rescue operation, one of the Firefighters on Truck 3 injured his back while assisting with the patient removal and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. The fire extended to the adjacent apartment, and that resident was transported to the hospital with minor injuries, and precautionary measures for smoke inhalation concern. Additionally, one dog and one cat are reported deceased, but it is unknown at this time which apartment they were in. The Red Cross and Animal Control were dispatched to the scene for at least 3 displaced residents, and the removal of the deceased pets. The quick action of additional fire crews were able to stop the fire from spreading to the attic and any other apartments. There were no additional injuries, and this fire is currently under investigation. Please call 503-823-FIRE (3473) or contact aig.gault@police.portlandoregon.gov">craig.gault@police.portlandoregon.gov if you have any information that may help our investigations unit discover cause.
 

Minutes later a high-rise incident was dispatched to 655 NW Hoyt St, and that point in time about ½ of our total on-duty personnel were just blocks from one another in NW Portland. Engine 4 arrived and reported that nothing was showing, and they would be in investigation mode. Audible fire alarms were sounding. The inside team made their way to the 5^th floor where the alleged fire was reported and quickly notified command that this was an unattended incense on the counter, that had extended to some nearby paper items. This was a very small fire issue that was extinguished immediately and did not set off the sprinkler system. The incident was then recalled and all responding resources returned back in service.
 

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind everyone that unattended candles and/or incense can result in catastrophic circumstances, so please do so responsibly. We would also like to thank our business partners at BOEC, PPD, PGE, Red Cross, and Animal Control for their assistance.

Portland Fire crews had a busy lunch rush this Friday with several incidents coming in simultaneously. It all started with a fire in a business at 2739 N Lombard Ave. Boom Boom Ballon's, a party supply business, caught on fire and was called in right at noon. First alarm crews found fire coming from the front door on arrival.  They were able to make a strong push and contain the fire to just the one business. This took coordinated efforts from many companies as the attic space above Boom Boom Ballons is shared with several other businesses.  Preventing the fire from spreading horizontally was a success, and the neighboring businesses will only have to deal with smoke damage. The cause of this fire is still under investigation and there were no injuries.

While crews were working in North Portland, a residential fire was dispatched in SE Portland near 114 and Powell. A couple minutes later, a rescue call came in for an individual that had fallen from a roof near SE Yamhill and Water Ave. And 15 minutes after that, a high rise fire was called in downtown Portland at 1705 SW 11th Ave.

The rescue call near SE Yamhill and Water Ave was for a worker who was hanging a banner over the edge of the building.  He fell from the upper roof to a lower section below, about 20 feet. When crews made contact with the patient, he was alert and oriented.  He was packaged in a stokes basket and brought down Truck 1's aerial ladder.  The reason he was brought down in this manner is to provide for all spinal precautions since he had fallen from such a distance. He was transported to OHSU for evaluation. 

A second alarm working fire, a residential box response, a rope rescue, and a high rise box response account for more then 3/4 of Portland Fire engines, trucks and chiefs responding to emergency calls within an hour. Both the high rise and residential fires turned out to be false alarms, just burned food and some smoke mitigation. But this all accounts for a busy afternoon for Portland Fire crews.

At around 1523 this afternoon, Sweet Home Fire District was dispatched to a structure fire near the 3200 block of main st. Crews found heavy smoke and fire consuming roughly fifty percent of the structure and spreading to the adjacent structures on either side. A 2nd alarm was utilized which brought additional man power and additional fire apparatus from our mutual aid partners. Two of the the three structures sustained heavy fire damage and the third structure sustained minimal damage to the interior.  Crews worked hard and were able to bring the blaze under control in about an hour. In total 3 Command officers, 43 firefighters and 16 apparatus responded to the fire including crews from our mutual aid partners from Lebanon Fire District, Brownsville Rural Fire District, Oregon department of forestry, PP&L, and the Sweet Home Police dept. Sweet Home Fire would like to thank those partners for their assistance. The cause of the fire is undetermined. During the incidents no firefighters or civilians were injured.

Photo credit: Wild Feathers Photography

At 5:59 PM on 8/19/2025 the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a car on fire in a garage at 1822 SE Solomon Loop in Vancouver, WA.  The first Vancouver fire engine arrived just six and a half minutes later to find fire in the garage.  Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire in the garage and stopped the spread of fire to the rest of the house and removed smoke from the structure.  Vancouver Fire responded with eleven units and twenty-eight firefighters including one fire engine from Camas/Washougal Fire.  There was one minor injury reported by the homeowner and the Vancouver Fire Marshals office is on scene investigating.   

At 2:34 PM on 8/15/2025 the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a 10’ section of arborvitae on fire between two homes near 10910 NE 70^th Cir.  While responding, it was further reported by witnesses that flames were 30’ high and explosions were occurring and now a house and vehicle were on fire.  The fire department response was upgraded to a full structural response.  The first Vancouver Fire units arrived just five minutes after dispatch and found a large exterior vegetation fire, a one-story house on fire and the siding of a neighbor’s house melting on one entire wall.  Crews worked quickly to extinguish the house fire, search for victims, stop the exterior fire from spreading any further while cooling the neighbors house to the west and making sure the fire did not spread to that house.  Everyone was able to make it out of the house without injury.  Three people and a dog were displaced, and the American Red Cross was contacted for assistance.  Northwest Natural Gas and Clark PUD were requested to secure utilities and the Clark County Fire Marshals office was on scene to investigate. 

At 7:34 PM on 08/13/2025 the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a house fire at 3910 NE 35^th Cir. in Vancouver, WA.  During our response, 911 callers reported hearing explosions and that tall trees were catching fire along with the house just to the west which is 3908 NE 35^th Cir.  The first units from Vancouver Fire arrived approximately five minutes later to find two, two story homes on fire along with vegetation in the back of the houses.  The fire department response was upgraded to a second alarm to handle both houses.  Crews worked quickly to contain the exterior fires, search for life and extinguish the interior house fires while containing the damage to just the two properties.  The fires were deemed to be under control in thirty minutes and no one was injured during firefighting efforts.  The Clark County Fire Marshals office was on scene to investigate the fires.

On August 13, 2025 the Vancouver Police Department responded to Frenchman’s Bar regarding a swimmer in distress. Initial reports indicated a 16 year old swimmer slipped under the water just prior to the call to 911 and did not return to the surface. The Vancouver Police Department, Clark County Fire Department and US Coast Guard responded to search for the missing swimmer. On August 14, 2025, the missing swimmer was found, deceased, by the Multnomah County Dive Team with the Assistance of the Clark County Sherriff’s. The swimmers remains were turned over to the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Vancouver Police Department will not be releasing any additional information at this time.

Woodburn, OR — The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) will conduct increased traffic safety enforcement at the start of the new school year, beginning Monday, August 25 through Friday, September 5, 2025. Enforcement will take place in all Woodburn school zones.

During this time, officers will focus on violations including speeding, seatbelt use, unlawful use of mobile devices while driving, and other unsafe driving behaviors. The goal is to help ensure the safety of students, school staff, and community members during this busy back-to-school season.

WPD reminds motorists that most school zones in Woodburn have a 20 miles-per-hour speed limit between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on school days. Traffic violations committed in these zones are subject to enhanced fines.

The Woodburn Police Department encourages all drivers to slow down, plan ahead, and allow extra time when traveling through school zones. Together, we can help make this school year a safe one for everyone.

Redesignation reinforces a commitment to nursing excellence

(Salem, Ore. – August 15, 2025) – Salem Hospital has attained its fourth Magnet recognition, a testament to Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics continued dedication to high-quality nursing practice. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program® distinguishes health care organizations that meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence.

This credential is the highest national honor for professional nursing practice, making Salem Hospital among a small, select group of domestic health care organizations in the U.S.

“Magnet recognition is a tremendous honor and reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality of care to this community,” said Sarah Horn, Chief Nursing Officer, Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics. “To earn Magnet recognition the first time was a great accomplishment and an incredible source of pride for our nurses. Our repeated achievement of this credential underscores the foundation of excellence and values that drive our entire staff to strive harder each day to meet the health care needs of the people we serve. It is this commitment to providing our community with high-quality care that helped us become a Magnet-recognized organization, and it’s why we continue to pursue and maintain Magnet recognition.”

Only 10% of hospitals worldwide — just 624 in total — have achieved Magnet designation. Of those, only 2% have reached this milestone four times. With this accomplishment, Salem Hospital stands proudly among the best of the best, which mirrors our commitment to be the best of the best for our patients.

“A fourth designation is rare,” said Cheryl Nester Wolfe, president and chief executive officer, Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics. “It’s a testament not just to one moment in time, but to years of sustained excellence, continuous improvement and a deep commitment to our mission. It is evidence of the strong culture of collaboration and innovation that lives throughout our organization where nurses and interprofessional teams are empowered, supported and truly valued.”

Salem Hospital achieved its latest designation receiving eight exemplars, which highlight areas where we exceeded expectations and set the standard for excellence. Magnet exemplars are a concept, practice or program worthy of imitation. The average number of exemplars organizations receive is typically two to four. Salem Hospital received four exemplars in its previous designation. The eight exemplars achieved for this fourth Magnet designation include:

• Hypervelocity RN hiring
• Professional certification rate
• BSN rate
• RN turnover rate
• Central line-associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) rate
• Multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO) rate
• Depression screening and follow-up
• Diabetes care and control

Why Magnet?

Research demonstrates that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to health care organizations and their communities, such as:

• Higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information
• Lower risk of 30-day mortality and lower failure to rescue rates
• Higher job satisfaction among nurses
• Lower nurse reports of intentions to leave their positions

Magnet recognition is the gold standard for nursing excellence and is a factor when the public judges health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

Using the Magnet Model, a framework for nursing practice, research and measurement outcomes, ANCC evaluates applicants across a number of components to gauge an organization’s nursing excellence. To achieve initial Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from leadership and staff. This process includes an electronic application, written patient care documentation, an on-site visit, and a review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.

Health care organizations must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. An organization reapplying for Magnet recognition must provide documented evidence to demonstrate how staff members sustained and improved Magnet concepts, performance and quality over the four-year period since the organization received its most recent recognition.

About ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program

The Magnet Recognition Program — administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the largest and most prominent nurses credentialing organization in the world — identifies health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and professionalism in nursing practice.

The Magnet Recognition Program serves as the gold standard for nursing excellence and provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark for measuring quality of care. For more information about the Magnet Recognition Program and current statistics, visit https://www.nursingworld.org/magnet.

About Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics

Salem Health offers exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. It comprises hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty care providers, plus other affiliated services. Visit us at www.salemhealth.org; “Like” us on www.facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Instagram and X: @salemhealth; and view us at www.youtube.com/salemhealth.

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SANDY, Ore. – The roar of CH-47 Chinook rotors filled the air at Sandy River Airport as Oregon Army National Guard aviators and Clackamas Fire's Water Rescue Team completed groundbreaking training that could revolutionize the state's response to flood emergencies.

The Aug. 12 exercise marked the culmination of a two-phase joint training program designed to develop rapid deployment capabilities for water rescue operations across Oregon and beyond. The partnership between Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, and Clackamas Fire demonstrates how military aviation assets can quickly deliver specialized rescue teams to disaster-affected areas.

"This operation would go such that we would get a phone call from a state authority saying that they need to utilize our water rescue team for, let's say, a flood event," said Lt. Mike Gasperson, a firefighter with Station 19's Water Rescue Team. "We could rally our team, get all our gear ready in a relatively quick time frame, and utilize the Guard to get us to where we need to go."

The training began on July 24 at Aurora State Airport, focusing on equipment familiarization and loading procedures. Fire rescue personnel learned aircraft safety protocols while Guard crew members inspected water rescue equipment to determine optimal loading configurations and weight distribution.

"The biggest thing it did is open the door to communication," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Anthony Ives, pilot-in-command for the Aug. 12 mission. "Now we have some phone numbers. We have some emails, and with obviously recent events happening in the United States, with floods and the ever-present possibility of a Cascadia tsunami, we could go pick them up."

The August exercise simulated a real-world deployment scenario. Guard aviators transported six water rescue specialists and their equipment, including inflatable rafts, chainsaws, rope rescue gear, and emergency medical supplies, from Aurora to Sandy River Airport in approximately 15 minutes – a journey that would take significantly longer by ground transportation.

"We have night vision capabilities so that if we need to operate at night, we have that. So we've got a lot of tools at our disposal if we need them," Gasperson said, describing the team's comprehensive equipment package.

Division Chief Kyle Olson, who oversees Clackamas Fire's special operations teams, said the partnership addresses a critical capability gap identified in recent flooding events nationwide. The Texas flooding earlier this year helped spark conversations about rapid deployment strategies.

"The idea is we need to be able to deploy fast and not have to drive 18 hours and hopefully get there and help," Olson said. "Whether we can at that point, we're going to deploy quickly and get out around Oregon or the Northwest or even go further."

The training revealed both capabilities and challenges. While equipment loading and transport proceeded smoothly, radio communication between military and civilian agencies required workarounds and remains an area for continued development.

"Communication, I think, is probably the number one challenge dated back since the Civil War, and it's still a problem, whether it's civilian or military," Ives said. "The biggest problem that we had was they were calling a frequency something that they were familiar with, and we were calling it something different that we were familiar with."

Despite communication challenges, the exercise demonstrated significant tactical advantages. The CH-47's auxiliary fuel tanks provide approximately four hours of flight time, enabling deployment anywhere in Oregon on a single tank of fuel.

"Within six or seven hours we could be picking them up and deploying them in the event of an emergency," Ives said.

The Water Rescue Team, headquartered at Station 19 in Damascus, operates as part of a regional consortium including agencies from across Clackamas County. The 16-member team has provided mutual aid for 30 years, responding to a range of incidents, from river rescues to major flooding events.

"We are a regional team, and have been for 30 years," Olson said. "It takes way more agency help to be able to pull some of these things off."

For Guard aviators, the training provided valuable experience working with civilian emergency responders while fulfilling their state mission.

"We're a big helicopter. We're loud," Ives said. "The biggest thing is when I think back to flight school the first time you turn those engines on and the rotors start turning, it even intimidates us sometimes. So from the standpoint of a civilian that's never hot loaded on even a Black Hawk, a CH-47, it's very intimidating."

The successful training establishes a foundation for future cooperation. Plans call for annual exercises to familiarize additional personnel with aircraft loading capabilities and procedures.

"All the training flights we go on, when we go on a real-world mission, whether it's a fire or a rescue, it makes the training pay off," Ives said. "For us, it makes what we do every day worth it."

Oregon National Guard members serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining civilian careers. They stand ready to respond to state emergencies such as wildfires and floods, while also training to defend the nation when called to federal service. Guard members live and work in the same communities they serve, creating a unique connection between military service and local communities.

The Aug. 12 crew included Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jeremiah Williams, Sgt. 1st Class Marcus Hickman, and Staff Sgt. Skyler Leasy is also working alongside Ives to ensure mission success.

"This just adds on one more thing that will benefit the state, being able to load the rescue team and the raft and take them anywhere in the state," Ives said. "Now we've established a working relationship."

                                                                                                                     -30-

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/973757/oregon-guard-aviation-partners-with-local-fire-department-enhance-flood-response-capabilities

Released Social Media Short Form Info Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/973758/oregon-national-guard-clackamas-fire-water-rescue-training-emergency-response-interagency-cooperation

Released Photos: 

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Sgt. 1st Class Marcus Hickman, a crew chief with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, gives a preflight safety briefing to Clackamas Fire Water Rescue Team members during joint training at Aurora State Airport, Oregon, July 24, 2025. The training exercise focused on developing efficient procedures for rapidly loading water rescue equipment and personnel aboard CH-47 Chinook helicopters during emergency response scenarios. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Army National Guard crew members inspect and secure Water Rescue Team equipment during static load training at Aurora State Airport, Oregon, July 24, 2025. The crew methodically checked tie-down procedures and weight distribution as part of joint training between Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, and Clackamas Fire's Water Rescue Team to develop standardized loading procedures for emergency flood response operations. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Members of Clackamas Fire's Water Rescue Team practice hot load procedures with rotors turning during joint training at Aurora State Airport, Oregon, July 24, 2025. The hot load training allowed firefighters to experience loading equipment and personnel aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter under operational conditions, preparing them for rapid deployment scenarios during actual emergency responses. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Jeremiah Tanael, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Members of Clackamas Fire's Water Rescue Team and Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook crew stand together following successful joint training at Aurora State Airport, Oregon, July 24, 2025. The training focused on developing procedures for transporting water rescue personnel and equipment, including inflatable rafts and specialized gear, aboard military aircraft to enhance rapid deployment capabilities for flood response operations across Oregon. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Clackamas Fire Water Rescue Team members load their inflatable raft into a fire department vehicle at Sandy River Airport, Oregon, Aug. 12, 2025, as an Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopter prepares for departure in the background. The exercise demonstrated the team's ability to rapidly offload, reconstitute equipment, and prepare for deployment to simulated flood rescue operations after being transported by military aircraft. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Warrenton, Ore. – Residents near Camp Rilea may notice increased helicopter activity between August 17 and 23 as the 1-229th Aviation Battalion conducts day and nighttime training flights.

Pilots will follow established flight paths to reduce noise over neighborhoods, but some additional sound is expected during this period.

“We appreciate the support of our local community,” said Maj. Steven Maughan, Camp Rilea range officer. “We understand the impact of military aviation operations and want to provide advance notice so residents are aware of the training schedule.”

The training will include Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) operations, ensuring pilots and crews maintain the proficiency needed for real-world missions.

For updates on Camp Rilea Range Operations, including scheduled live-fire and night activities, visit: https://www.oregon.gov/omd/rilea/Pages/Range-Operations.aspx

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.—Four volunteers were recognized for their efforts to steward recreational opportunities across Oregon state forests through the first Forest Champions Volunteer Award. The award, sponsored by the State Forests Trust of Oregon, was proudly presented to Richard Chapman, Nathan Frechen, Nelson Kline and Tom Brauner.

“Each of this year’s honorees reflects the heart of volunteerism and the spirit of Oregon’s working forests,” said Kelly Lau, executive director of the State Forests Trust of Oregon. “Their dedication ensures that trails remain safe, available, and inspiring for all who explore, enjoy and appreciate time spent on these public lands.”

Each year volunteers contribute more than 15,000 hours to help Oregon Department of Forestry’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program maintain and improve the state forests’ trail systems, camping areas, and other recreational facilities. Additionally, many of the educational and interpretation programs hosted at the Tillamook Forest Center also rely heavily on volunteers.

“Our volunteers are amazing,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program Manager. “They are out in the forests in all kinds of weather doing hard, physical work, so all Oregonians can enjoy our state forests safely. Our small number of ODF recreational staff couldn’t keep the more than 700 miles of hiking, biking, off-road vehicle and equestrian trails open without their help. We greatly appreciate their dedication and commitment to everything that makes our state forests so special.”

Here are the 2025 Forest Champions:

Richard Chapman

The Trust partnered with the Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) to create the Lyon Payne Trail Volunteer of the Year Award in memory of longtime OMRA member Lyon Payne. Known for his quiet, steadfast dedication to trail maintenance, Lyon passed away in 2022 after years of working behind the scenes to keep state forests trails open for all. Richard, who worked closely with Lyon, has carried on that legacy without missing a beat. From maintaining OMRA’s tools to covering countless hidden costs out of pocket, Richard’s service reflects a humble, hands-on approach that puts others and state forest trails first. Without seeking recognition, he has ensured that ODF’s trail network continues to thrive. The award honors both Lyon’s enduring impact and Richard’s commitment to carrying the torch.

 Nathan Frechen

A leading volunteer with the Northwest Trail Alliance (NWTA), Nathan contributes over 150 hours annually, organizing and leading large volunteer crews in trail restoration and maintenance. His ability to mobilize teams of 30–50 people has made a measurable difference in the health of the Tillamook State Forest non-motorized trail system. But Nathan’s influence goes far beyond the worksite. His inclusive leadership style has helped cultivate a broader network of volunteers and partners dedicated to equitable outdoor access and long-term stewardship. Through his passion, organization, and generosity of spirit, Nathan is helping ensure that ODF’s trails remain welcoming and sustainable for future generations.

 Nelson Kline and Tom Brauner

Volunteers with Trailkeepers of Oregon (TKO), Tom and Nelson have made extraordinary efforts to restore the Shellburg Falls Trail system in the Santiam State Forest. Severely damaged by the 2020 Labor Day fires, the Shellburg network has become a model of grassroots restoration thanks to their leadership.

Nelson, who began volunteering with TKO in 2019, has led 47 trail parties with volunteers who have contributed over 1,600 hours. Tom joined TKO in 2022 and has since logged over 2,000 hours. His contributions include leading crews, designing bridges and box steps, and coordinating closely with the Oregon Department of Forestry. Together, Nelson and Tom oversaw the construction of two new 30-foot bridges—critical to safely reopening the area. This duo continues to attract new volunteers, especially from the Salem area, and they remain committed to ongoing restoration work as winter storms and lingering fire damage continue to affect the Santiam.

 For more information on volunteering in Oregon’s State Forest see the Trust’s Get Involved webpage and the ODF volunteer page.

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

Brittan Arrington, age 14, is a child who went missing from Gresham on July 29. She was found Aug. 13.

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

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

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August 19, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459.

PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Ross Island Lagoon and for the Willamette River south of the lagoon downriver to Wapato Bridge and Kelley Point Park

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Ross Island Lagoon and for the Willamette River south of the lagoon downriver to Wapato Bridge and Kelley Point Park in Multnomah County.

OHA issued the advisory August 12.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Ross Island Lagoon and the Willamette River south of the lagoon downriver to Wapato Bridge and Kelley Point Park are below recreational guideline values for people.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

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

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

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

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August 15, 2025

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory for Eckman Lake on July 31, due to the presence of cyanobacteria, and is providing an update on August 15, due to very high saxitoxin (PSP) levels. The lake is in Lincoln County.

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

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

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

August 14, 2025

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

OHA issues recreational use advisory for Odell Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Odell Lake in Klamath County, due to the presence of microcystin.

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

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

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

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The Oregon Heritage Commission (OHC) and the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) seek volunteers to fill multiple positions.
 

Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries

The OCHC is seeking two new members, one for the position representing Eastern Oregon and one representing the Portland Metro area.

The commission is seeking members with knowledge related to, or interest in:

• cemeteries;
• historic preservation;
• genealogy;
• cultural and burial practices of ethnic groups found in Oregon;
• landscape and native plants; and
• history.

The OCHC is comprised of seven citizens. It is empowered by the Legislature to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries in Oregon, make recommendations for funding, seek legislative appropriations for historic cemeteries, and assist in the coordination of restoration, renovation and maintenance of historic cemeteries statewide. The commission develops online resources, offers workshops, and promotes the value of historic cemeteries through storytelling.
 

The group meets four times per year in different locations around the state and online. There may be an occasional additional meeting for extra projects, programs, and grant selection. Commissioners are also asked to organize informal meetings in their regions or work on other projects outside of meeting time. Travel costs are reimbursed.
 

To apply, send a letter of interest and resume to commission coordinator Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685. Please include your reasons for wanting to serve on the commission, any skills or knowledge you will bring to its work, and ideas or goals you have for your participation. Please submit your information before September 12, 2025. More information about the Historic Cemeteries program is available online www.oregonheritage.org.
 

Oregon Heritage Commission

The Heritage Commission currently has three vacancies and is especially seeking members with knowledge and experience related to community institutions, heritage tourism, or education/higher education and who have experience working with diverse cultural groups. The Commission seeks applications from those that live in the Southern Oregon area, the Portland Metro area, and the Mid/South Willamette Valley area.
 

The Heritage Commission’s nine members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary celebrations.
 

The group meets four-six times per year in changing locations around the state and will offer virtual options to attend meetings. Commissioners are also asked to occasionally participate in meetings or events in their regions and work on other projects outside of meeting time. Appointed Commissioners are reimbursed for their travel and related expenses while conducting official commission business.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

To request appointment, go to Governor Tina Kotek’s Boards and Commissions webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx. 

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to the decedent recovered from the Columbia River near Frenchman’s Bar on Aug. 14, 2025.

This individual died on 08/14/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Tarnoski, Anthony C.   Age: 16 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Accident

Manner of death:  Drowning

How the injury occurred: Drowned while swimming in river

Place of injury: Columbia River

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

Media release issue date: 08/19/2025

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking volunteers to fill two openings on the county’s Planning Commission.

One position is for six years and expires Dec. 31, 2031, and one position is for a four-year term that ends Dec. 31, 2029. Both positions begin Jan. 1, 2026.

The Planning Commission is a seven-member committee that makes recommendations to the council on land-use planning, zoning and development in unincorporated Clark County. The commission also makes recommendations on issues such as growth management, roads, public facilities, development regulations and applicable county ordinances.

To apply, send a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, Clark County Council Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Sept. 12, 2025.

Learn more about the Planning Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/planning-commission.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Round Lake in Camas due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.

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

Cyanotoxins can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water. While the warning advisory is in place, Public Health recommends:

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

Vancouver Lake danger advisory
The danger advisory for Vancouver Lake remains in place. Public Health issued a danger advisory for Vancouver Lake on July 23 due to widespread harmful algal blooms producing elevated levels of cyanotoxins. Water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday show toxin levels are still elevated.

Public Health advises against all recreating in Vancouver Lake while the danger advisory is in place. Pets should not have any contact with the water.

Public Health will continue to monitor water quality at Vancouver and Round lakes. Advisories and signs at the lakes will be updated as conditions change.

Public Health is also monitoring water quality at Lacamas Lake. A harmful algal bloom has formed at Lacamas Lake, but results from water samples collected on Monday indicate toxin levels are below thresholds set by the state. Public Health encourages people swimming and recreating in Lacamas Lake to watch for floating scum and avoid direct contact with water in those areas.

Additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories are posted on the Public Health website.

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of trustees will be held on Monday, August 18, 6:00 pm, at Goldendale Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. . 

You can view the agenda and meeting materials at https://www.fvrl.org/board-trustees

Today, Marion County filed a lawsuit seeking clarification on whether the County is allowed under the state’s sanctuary law to turn over parole-related records of four alleged undocumented immigrants in response to subpoenas from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Agents of ICE served immigration enforcement subpoenas on Marion County requesting records of four individuals on parole for serious crimes, such as multiple convictions of rape, multiple convictions of sexual abuse, and convictions for kidnapping/robbery.

Marion County collected documents responsive to the federal subpoenas, all of which are public records that would be available to any person who makes a public records request. However, Oregon’s sanctuary law limits use of state and local resources related to immigration enforcement, and Oregon’s sanctuary law has both internal inconsistencies and conflicts with federal law and Oregon’s public records laws in this situation.

“Obviously we want to keep dangerous people out of our community and off of our streets,” said Commissioner Danielle Bethell, Chair. “We also want to make sure the state won’t come after our community and sue us if we provide the requested records to the federal administration.”

Before filing this lawsuit, Marion County contacted both the state and federal government seeking assistance in a good faith effort to clarify legal requirements. Ambiguity remains.

“Marion County has to follow both federal and state laws, and there’s a serious lack of clarity that the courts need to figure out,” added Commissioner Bethell. “Marion County is committed to prosecuting and holding accountable all people who commit crimes regardless of their immigration status.”

For the first time in 170 years, the gates of Christilla Pioneer Cemetery were opened to the public as community members gathered to celebrate its restoration and ribbon cutting.

Despite a few unexpected challenges, including wasp nests and swarms of mosquitoes, volunteers braved the work and dedicated countless hours to restoring this historic site. Thanks to the combined efforts of the Rotary Club of Clackamas, Boys Team Charity, Happy Valley Hikers, and many other volunteers, the once-overgrown cemetery is now a place of reflection and remembrance.

Established in 1852 by early settlers, many of them Oregon Trail pioneers the Christilla Pioneer Cemetery holds 29 marked graves, each telling a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the roots of Happy Valley’s beginnings.

This project was inspired by long-time community member Dennis Deardorff, a fifth-generation descendant of one of Happy Valley’s founding families and a relative of those laid to rest at the site. At the celebration, Dennis had the honor of cutting the ribbon and sharing what this restoration means to him and his family. His vision and passion helped bring this unique piece of Happy Valley history back into view for the entire community.

The City of Happy Valley extends its gratitude to the many volunteers and community partners who worked tirelessly to make this restoration possible. Together, they have preserved an important landmark and created a space where residents and visitors alike can connect with the past and history of Happy Valley.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8JWUG9eGRyE?feature=share

For the first time since its founding in 1852, the Christilla Pioneer Cemetery atop Scouters Mountain Nature Park will welcome residents and visitors to explore its historic grounds. Join the City of Happy Valley on Saturday, August 16 at 11am for this special grand opening celebration.

Thanks to months of dedication from the Rotary Club of Clackamas, Boys Team Charity, Happy Valley Hikers, and other volunteers, the once-overgrown site has been carefully restored. Established by early settlers, many of them Oregon Trail pioneers, the cemetery holds 29 graves, each with its own story of resilience.

This project was inspired by Dennis Deardorff, a long-time community member whose family is among those buried here. His vision has brought this unique piece of Happy Valley’s history back into view for the community.

Come step into history, connect with the stories of our city’s earliest residents, and be part of a moment more than 170 years in the making. Visitors are asked to treat the site with care to preserve it for generations to come.

The City of Happy Valley is proud to announce the grand opening of the restored Christilla Pioneer Cemetery, a cherished historic landmark perched atop Scouters Mountain Nature Park. This special celebration will take place on Saturday, August 16 at 11am, and the public is invited to visit and experience this meaningful piece of the city’s past.

Thanks to the dedication of community volunteers from the Rotary Club of Clackamas, Boys Team Charity, and the Happy Valley Hikers, the Christilla Pioneer Cemetery has been given new life. Over the past several months, volunteers have worked tirelessly clearing brush, removing invasive plants, and cleaning the site to transform it into a beautiful and welcoming place that honors Happy Valley’s history.

Christilla Pioneer Cemetery, established around 1852 on land donated by John M. Deardorff (one of the first settlers in Happy Valley), holds a unique place in Happy Valley’s history. The first grave belongs to a wagon train pioneer whose name is unknown. Over time, the cemetery grew to include 28 graves and was officially closed in 1932. Later, the burial of a 16-year-old girl, a descendant of early Happy Valley settlers, brought the total to 29 graves. Many of the early settlers buried here traveled over the Oregon Trail, leaving behind stories of resilience and determination.

Among those recognized during the cemetery’s recent restoration is long-time community member Dennis Deardorff, whose vision and passion for preserving local history were the inspiration behind this project. With family members and other early settlers laid to rest at the site, Dennis has a deep personal connection to the cemetery and is thrilled to see his idea come to life. His dedication stands as a living reminder of the deep roots and enduring stories that shaped Happy Valley into the city that it is today. 

The city extends heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to this project. Because of these efforts, the cemetery is now open for the public to visit.  Come walk the grounds, connect with local history, and join the City of Happy Valley in honoring the past while celebrating the spirit of community that continues to thrive today.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the Christilla Pioneer Cemetery with care, respect, and a sense of history. This site is the final resting place of many of Happy Valley’s earliest settlers, whose lives laid the foundation for our community, and we ask that you honor their memory by staying on paths, leaving headstones and landscaping undisturbed, and keeping the grounds as you found them.

On Monday, August 18, Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) will swear in Lauren Johnson as the bureau’s next fire chief at an event from 10-11 a.m. at the Portland Fire Training Center (4800 NE 122nd Avenue, Portland OR). The position manages a $181 million budget and oversees approximately 800 sworn and non-sworn employees across four divisions and the Chief’s Office.

The event will include remarks from the following:

• Mayor Keith Wilson
• Bob Cozzie, Interim Deputy City Administrator for Public Safety; and
• Isaac McLennan, Portland Firefighters Association President.

Following the ceremony, Chief Johnson will be available to answer questions from the media.

• WHAT: PF&R Chief Swearing-In Ceremony
• WHEN: August 18, 2025 from 10-11 a.m.
• WHERE: Portland Fire Training Center (4800 NE 122nd Avenue, Portland OR)

###

• Geer Community Park improvements are making good progress
• Park remains a construction zone and new facilities are not yet ready for use

Salem, Ore. – Upgrades are moving ahead throughout Geer Park this month. While visible progress is being made, most of the park remains a construction site and new features are not yet ready for use.

Geer Park is one of five community parks that serve all of Salem with lots of fun things to do. Improvements and additions underway this summer include:

• A state-of-the-art skatepark and related pathway improvements
• A fenced dog park with separate areas for energetic and quieter dogs, with an accessible, paved entry and two small shelters with benches
• Reconstructed soccer fields with regrading, new irrigation and new drainage
• Upgrades to two baseball fields, adding artificial turf to the infields that will allow for both baseball and softball play and longer seasonal use
• Reservable picnic shelters near the dog park and skatepark

Baseball and soccer field work is making lots of progress this week. Contractors are targeting later September for when soccer fields are ready to be seeded. This will allow the grass a chance to grow and become established before the cold season arrives.
 

As related additions, a new sidewalk along Park Avenue NE and a pedestrian crossing improvement will allow people to safely walk from northeast Salem neighborhoods through the Oregon State Hospital Campus. When connected to the new path being developed with the skatepark, it will provide a dedicated walking route from northeast neighborhoods through Geer Park.

Oregon Contractors

Oregon contractors are doing most of the work. Paul Brothers, Inc., of Boring, is the primary contractor for the skatepark and related pathways. The skatepark facility itself is by Evergreen Skateparks, a leader in the field, based in Portland.

Pihl, Inc., of Banks, is contractor on the soccer fields, dog park and one of the two picnic shelters, as well as the sidewalk extension and pedestrian crossing. FieldTurf Tarkett, a division of French company Tarkett that is based in Canada, is providing and installing artificial turf playing surfaces.

Timing

The skatepark is expected to open sometime late this year. The fields will be closed until mid-spring to assure everything is working properly and the grass is sturdy enough for use. Sidewalk construction will occur as time and conditions allow.

Funding

The voter-approved 2022 Safety and Livability Bond is paying for the soccer fields, dog park and its nearby picnic shelter. The Park System Development Charge Fund is paying for the sidewalk extension and crossing, and most of the skatepark, related trails and picnic shelter.

A $500,000 grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will complete the skatepark. The artificial turf on the baseball fields is funded by a combination of bond funds and system development charges.

None of these projects involve money from the City’s General Fund.

Details

Geer Park Master Plan

# # #

The City of Vancouver is now accepting applications for openings on 13 Boards and Commissions. Applications close on Saturday, Sept. 30.

“Boards and Commissions give our community a direct voice in shaping the policies that impact Vancouver’s livability, health, safety and future,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “You don’t need a long resume or political experience, just a passion for this city and a desire to help shape its future.”

Openings:

• Aviation Advisory Committee – one opening

• City Center Redevelopment Authority Board – two openings

• Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission – three openings

• Clark County Historic Preservation Commission – one opening

• Clark County Mosquito Control Board – one opening

• Downtown Redevelopment Authority Board – three openings

• Fort Vancouver Regional Library Board of Trustees – one opening

• Lodging Tax Advisory Committee – eight openings 

• Planning Commission – one opening

• Portland Airport Citizen’s Noise Advisory Committee – one opening

• Salary Review Commission – two openings

• Transportation and Mobility Commission – five openings

• Vancouver Public Facilities District Board of Directors – two openings

Interested applicants are invited to join the City for an optional “Boards & Bagels” open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6 at Vancouver City Hall Aspen Room, 415 W. 6th Street. Drop in for bagels from Vancouver’s own Sunrise Bagels, coffee, tea and an opportunity to chat with current City commissioners and staff.  No RSVP required. All are welcome.

Board information, membership requirements and position opening details can be found in the Board Application Portal. 

EUGENE, Ore.—A North Bend, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually exploiting an Oregon child using the social media application Facebook Messenger.

Chistopher Jay Young, 40, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison and 15 years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on January 20, 2024, Young, using Facebook Messenger, persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, record the conduct, and send it to him.

On April 11, 2024, federal and state law enforcement officers from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oregon State Police, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office executed federal search warrants on Young’s home and vehicles. Young was arrested and investigators seized his devices.

During a search of Young’s devices, investigators learned that Young used the minor’s social media account to communicate and request the child sexual abuse material and that Young had the minor’s Facebook login credentials saved in his phone.

On April 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a two-count indictment charging Young with attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and attempting to coerce or entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct. 

On May 6, 2025, Young pleaded guilty to attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from HSI. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

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

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

MEDFORD, Ore.—Two San Antonio, Texas, men were sentenced to federal prison Thursday for conspiring to travel from Texas to Southern Oregon to commit an armed robbery while disguised as agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Jose Manuel Lopez, 24, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release, and Juan Carlos Conchas, 23, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release. Restitution to the victim was ordered to be paid jointly.

According to court documents, on March 12, 2022, deputies from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office responded to a rural address in Josephine County, Oregon after receiving reports of an armed robbery in progress. The deputies found a residence with a closed driveway gate and two empty vehicles with Texas license plates in the driveway with their doors open. Deputies saw several people running toward the back of the property and found victims inside the house. The victims reported that armed individuals dressed in what appeared to be DEA attire and wearing body armor arrived at the property and used zip ties and duct tape to restrain several of them.

The deputies searched the property and found large plastic totes containing packaged marijuana in the buildings and vehicles. They also found body armor, firearms, ammunition, shell casings, and badges that resembled those carried by DEA agents along the path that the defendants used to flee the property.

Investigators learned that in late February 2022, the group traveled from San Antonio to Southern Oregon to steal over 200 pounds of marijuana and recovered photographs taken by the group in which they posed with firearms while dressed as DEA agents.

On October 13, 2022, Lopez and Conchas were located and arrested in San Antonio.

On September 1, 2022, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a three-count indictment charging Morales, Acuna, Conchas and co-conspirators with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, conspiracy to possess marijuana with intent to distribute, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On December 6, 2024, Lopez pleaded guilty to conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery and conspiring to possess marijuana with the intent to distribute.

On April 16, 2025, Conchas pleaded guilty to conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery and conspiring to possess marijuana with the intent to distribute.

In addition, four co-conspirators have pleaded guilty and been sentenced on felony charges stemming from their roles in the conspiracy.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety. It is being prosecuted by Judith R. Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

Longtime community leader recognized by the Association of Community College Trustees for outstanding service and advocacy

Salem, Ore., August 18, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College is proud to announce that Board of Education member Ken Hector has been named the 2025 Pacific Region Trustee Leadership Award recipient by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). This prestigious award honors trustees who have made significant contributions to their colleges and the advancement of community college education nationwide.

Hector, who has served on Chemeketa’s Board of Education for 12 years, was recognized for his exceptional leadership, tireless advocacy, and deep commitment to expanding access to higher education. A former mayor of Silverton and lifelong public servant, Hector has been a driving force in legislative advocacy at both the state and national levels. His efforts have been instrumental in advancing applied baccalaureate degrees for Oregon’s community colleges, securing critical funding for infrastructure, and championing initiatives that support student success and workforce development.

“Ken Hector exemplifies what it means to be a public servant and a community college advocate,” said Chemeketa President and CEO Jessica Howard, Ph.D. “His leadership on our Board, his commitment to students, and his passionate work to expand educational opportunity in Oregon and beyond have left a lasting impact. We are honored to see his service recognized on the national stage.”

Hector has twice served as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Chemeketa Board of Education, played a pivotal role in the college’s successful $140 million bond campaign, and represented Chemeketa on state and national policy committees. His leadership extends beyond the college, with decades of community service including 14 years as mayor of Silverton, leadership roles with local nonprofits, and recognition with the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award for public service.

As the Pacific Region winner, Hector will now advance as a finalist for the national Trustee Leadership Award, to be presented at the ACCT Leadership Congress in October in Seattle, Washington.

####

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

About ACCT
The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a non-profit educational organization of governing boards, representing more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees who govern over 1,000 community, technical, and junior colleges in the United States and beyond. For more information, visit www.acct.org.

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

Media Advisory

When

7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18

Where

WSU Vancouver

14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue

Vancouver, WA 98604

Who and What

WSU Vancouver is the first to go back to school in the region. On the first day of classes, faculty, staff, alumni and special guests take turns waving the Cougar flag at three locations on campus to welcome students to the new academic year. It’s a beloved tradition.

Media opportunities

WSU Vancouver’s new Interim Chancellor Sandra Haynes will wave the flag at the main entrance to campus from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Wave the Flag provides a fun, positive, colorful photo opportunity during this back-to-school time of year.

EUGENE, Ore. — Bushnell University invites alumni, students, friends, and neighbors to gather in celebration of a major milestone—130 years of Wisdom, Faith, and Service—on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Event Details

Location: Bushnell University, 828 E. 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR
Time:
11:00 a.m. – 130th Anniversary Convocation Chapel
12:00 p.m. – Building Dedication & Ribbon Cutting for Goodrich Hall and Bell Tower (followed by a casual lawn reception)
12:15–12:45 p.m. – Building Tours

The event is open to the public. No RSVP required.

Parking is limited—walking, carpooling, and public transportation are encouraged. On-campus signage and maps will be available.

The celebration begins at 11:00 a.m. with the 130th Anniversary Convocation Chapel on the campus quad. Convocation will be followed by a 12:00 p.m. Building Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the two important campus landmarks: the recently renovated Goodrich Hall and the newly constructed Donna Racine Pomajevich Bell Tower. The tower is home to four bells, honoring members of Bushnell's legacy, and a cross, symbolizing our commitment to Christ-centered higher education.

A Legacy Reawakened

Goodrich Hall first opened its doors on October 18, 1908, as one of the original three buildings constructed on land acquired in 1896. Funded in part by early benefactors, including James A. Bushnell, the building quickly became the centerpiece of campus life for what was then Eugene Divinity School, housing classrooms, administrative offices, and the school’s growing library.

Following a full interior renovation, Goodrich Hall now reclaims its role as a vibrant hub for learning and connection. The updated space includes modern classrooms, study areas, and collaborative spaces on the first and second floors. The third floor houses the Office of the President and the Office of Advancement. With Goodrich coming back to life, our community will enjoy a lively hub for learning and connection, enhanced by increased accessibility and comfort.

“The aggressive renovation gives a beloved, aging building a long future with high functionality, as well as offering an attractive, six-story bell tower and a cross to declare visibly and audibly the centrality of Christ at Bushnell,” wrote Keith Potter, Vice President for University Advancement, in his chapter in Wisdom, Faith, and Service: Reframing the Bushnell University Saga (p. 50).

The Bell Tower: A New Symbol of Sound and Spirit

Standing tall beside Goodrich Hall is the newly constructed Donna Racine Pomajevich Bell Tower, which will house four newly cast bells and a cross visible from across the University District. The bells will chime to mark the hour, call the community to weekly chapel, and celebrate ceremonial moments like convocation and commencement. Together, the bells and the cross represent Bushnell University as a champion of wisdom, faith, and service in our community and our world.

The stories behind the bells and their honorees are shared in more detail by the Register-Guard in this news article.

Venture Forward: A Campaign Fulfilled

The renovation of Goodrich Hall and construction of the Donna Racine Pomajevich Bell Tower were made possible through Bushnell’s historic Venture Forward campaign, which surpassed its $18 million goal and raised nearly $22 million. This bold campaign has also fueled key initiatives across campus, including:

• Completion of Womack Hall, an active student residence facility
• A fully operational baseball program and stadium partnership at Hamlin Field
• Full funding for the Song Nai Rhee Honors Program
• Continued expansion of the School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions
• Planning and initial groundbreaking for the future Duke Student Commons at 1000 Alder Street

You can read more about Venture Forward on news.bushnell.edu.

Bushnell University is honored to mark this transformative moment in our 130-year journey. We invite the community to come celebrate the past, present, and future of a university built on wisdom, faith, and service.

About Bushnell University

Founded in 1895, Bushnell University helps students discover and answer God’s call on their lives. Devoted to offering a Christ-centered environment, Bushnell encourages students to grow in wisdom, informed by faith, and leading to lives of service. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the University was founded by pastor-educator Eugene C. Sanderson and pioneer businessman and church leader James A. Bushnell. 

Bushnell is the largest private university in Eugene’s vibrant University District. The University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees for undergraduate and graduate studies through on campus, online, and hybrid formats. More information about the University is available at www.bushnell.edu. 

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on August 19, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually through Zoom.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/82869647930?pwd=oydFzmQBcSPtBy0alk4obUSrXYDFZN.1
Passcode:033483

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet for their Summer Retreat and Planning session at 1:00 p.m. on August 20, 2024, in the MESD Board Room located at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland OR 97220. 

REGULAR SESSION

The Gervais School District #1 School Board, Gervais, Oregon, will convene in a Regular Session at 5:30 p.m. Following the Regular Session will be a Working Session (7:00 p.m.) at the District Office Conference via ZOOM on Thursday, August 21, 2025.  The agenda for the Regular Session meeting includes, but is not limited to, the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

• Board/Superintendent Working Agreement

Discussion Items:      

• Bond Update
•   OSBA 2025 Open Board of Directors Positions 11 & 12
• OSBA 2025 Open Legislative Policy Committee Positions Position 11 & 12 
• Q4 and Annual Report for Integrated Plan and Early Literacy Grant
•  Joint City Council/School Board Mtg.

WORKING SESSION (7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.)

• Board Training

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89752792767?pwd=hYn2wCBqRPAESNWD0zz0Mi7wsioeDl.1

Passcode:095512

Battle Ground Public Schools is seeking members for its Citizens Advisory Committee. This committee meets once per month to give parents, guardians and community members an opportunity to share their perspectives on BGPS with district leaders and learn about initiatives and programs. 

The first meeting is Thursday, September 11, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Battle Ground High School media center (300 W Main St., Battle Ground, WA 98604).

All parents, guardians and community members are welcome, no RSVP or application required. Light refreshments will be available.

Salem, OR – Mission Benedict Food Pantry is teaming up with the Mavericks League to host Strike Out Hunger!, a community food drive and baseball event to help fight local hunger. The event will take place on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Volcanoes Stadium, 6700 Field of Dreams Way, Keizer, OR 97305.

Fans are encouraged to bring canned or nonperishable food items to the Volcanoes vs. Senators game. In appreciation, guests who donate three cans will receive $3 off concessions. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. with the first pitch at 6:00 p.m.

Special Guest: Seattle Mariners legend Mike Cameron will be in attendance, signing free autographs!

This event will directly benefit Mission Benedict Food Pantry, a program of Catholic Community Services, which serves families in the Mt. Angel and surrounding communities. With a critical shortage of food supplies this summer, donations collected at this event are vital to sustaining the pantry’s efforts to feed hungry families.

For supporters unable to attend the game but wishing to donate, canned food may be dropped off at the following locations:

• Catholic Community Services (Main Office): 3737 Portland Road NE, Salem, OR 97301
• People’s Bank: 315 Commercial St SE, Suite 110, Salem, OR 97317
• Salem Pediatric Clinic: 2478 13th Street SE, Salem, OR 97302

For further information, sponsorship opportunities, or media inquiries, please contact  Heidi Wiegal,  Chief Communications Officer, P: 503.856.7009

______________________________________________

About Mission Benedict:

Mission Benedict is a community food pantry, located in Mount Angel, Oregon. Each year, Mission Benedict serves more than 2,000 low-income individuals and families facing adversity and food insecurity. Each month, Mission Benedict is prepared to serve 200 individuals, but often the reality is over 400 individuals served per month.

About Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast:

Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast is a nonprofit, faith-based organization. Founded in Salem in 1938, today, CCS offers nine programs across 10 Oregon counties and serves more than 5,000 people each year. It operates with fidelity to the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching, which call it to work for the common good and to serve its neighbors who are the poorest and most vulnerable. CCS envisions a caring, resilient community full of hope and connection where all people flourish. CCS is a Christian ministry caring for all in our community, built on faith, hope, and kinship. www.ccswv.org.

BEND, OR — Heather Quinn, a Minnesota-based writer, photographer and filmmaker, has been officially selected as the winner of the 11th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize by guest judge and author Beth Piatote, Ph.D.

The Waterston Desert Writing Prize, established in 2014 by author and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston, honors and fosters literary nonfiction that celebrates desert landscapes.  

Quinn’s winning submission is titled This Is How You Disappear, a project about the California desert. Quinn, who receives a $3,000 cash prize, will give a reading and discuss their project at the Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

The event features award-winning author Dan Flores, Ph.D., who will give a talk titled, “The Coyote Is the Dude, the Dude Abides, and the Adventures Continue,” during the ceremony.

Flores, author of Coyote America and Wild New World, has spent his career exploring the connections between people and the natural world in America and the West. His books have won several awards including the Rachel Carson Environmental Book Prize and the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Prize. The author of 11 books, Flores has also written for the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune and Time Magazine.

His presentation at the award ceremony will delve into how coyotes have preserved wildness in modern America, making a case for understanding wild animals as distinctive individuals.

Quinn, who lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with their husband and two young daughters, writes personal and lyric essays. They approach nonfiction from a journalistic background, including a deep appreciation of truth telling.

The winning submission This Is How You Disappear is an essay blending personal narrative, reporting and historical research to explore trauma, ecological collapse and memory in the California desert, particularly around the Salton Sea. For over two decades, Quinn has documented the region through writing, photography and film, bearing witness to its shifting landscapes and layered histories.

Quinn earned their Master of Fine Arts at Portland State University, and they were a 2021 McKnight Artist Fellow, a 2023 Writing Resident at Art Omi, and a 2022 Tin House Winter Workshop Scholar. Their work has appeared in Fourth Genre, Vela, Longreads and elsewhere. 

Waterston said that Quinn’s piece “promises fearless writing that skillfully enlists the landscape of the Salton Sea as backdrop to their quest for understanding” an emotional moment in their life.

Piatote, a Nez Perce scholar, writer, professor and language activist, will also speak during the Waterston event at the Museum. Piatote is the author of two books, including a mixed-genre collection entitled The Beadworkers: Stories (2019), which was featured on NPR and was selected as the “one read” for multiple university and community programs. Dedicated to Nez Perce language and literature, she cofounded the Designated Emphasis in Indigenous Language Revitalization at the University of California Berkeley, where she teaches English and Comparative Literature.

"We are honored to welcome our outstanding winner Heather Quinn and award-winning authors Dan Flores and Beth Piatote to this year’s Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony," said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. "Their passionate exploration of the natural world aligns perfectly with the Prize’s mission to celebrate and elevate desert landscapes through the power of literary nonfiction."

The two finalists for this year’s Prize are Taylor Luck and Charles Hood.

Luck, a journalist living in the Middle East, blends narrative writing with authentic storytelling. His submission, Beyond the Jordan, focuses on modern-day Jordan and the varied groups of people navigating a region in upheaval. Luck weaves his personal journey of belonging into the narrative.

Located in Palmdale, California, Hood has traveled the world for his writings, from the high Arctic to the South Pole, and from Tibet to West Africa and the Amazon. His submission, Desert Fire, takes him closer to home as it delves into the past, present and future role of fire in Western American deserts.

A writer with continued contributions to nonfiction prose about desert regions, Hood is being recognized this year for the first-ever Obsidian Prize, a $2,000 award in honor of his contributions to the Waterston Desert Writing Prize. A prolific poet and essayist, Hood has written several books, including the essay collection A Salad Only the Devil Would Eat: The Joys of Ugly Nature, which was named the Nonfiction Book of the Year by the editors of Foreword book review.  

In 2020, the High Desert Museum—which has long hosted events for the Prize—adopted the program. The mission and goals of the Prize complement those of the High Desert Museum, emphasizing the importance of protecting deserts and creating important conversations about the issues affecting them.

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and to purchase your tickets to the Waterston Desert Writing Prize Ceremony, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize.

ABOUT THE 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. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, 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, Instagram and TikTok.

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Good Morning,

Haley Ellison here with the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA).

As you may have seen, La Salle’s Vance Sheffield was recently named the Gatorade Oregon Boys Soccer Player of the Year. As part of the award, Vance was given the opportunity to select a community organization to receive a $1,000 Gatorade Player of the Year Community Grant — and we are honored that he chose NWABA! 

This grant will directly support our mission to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity for youth and adults who are blind or visually impaired.

We’d love to connect you with NWABA Founder & CEO Billy Henry, Vance, and/or his father, CS Sheffield, for interviews to share more about this meaningful recognition and the impact it will have locally.

Full details are included in the press release below. Please let us know if you’re interested in covering this story or scheduling interviews.

SEASIDE, Ore. – It’s heartbreaking to see Providence close Seaside’s birth center. For nearly 50 years, nurses and healthcare professionals have been here to help newborns draw their first breath and provide trusted care before and after birth for families on the Oregon Coast. This abrupt closure sets our community up for failure and abandons expectant parents at one of the most important and vulnerable times of their lives.

Minutes matter for parents and newborns. Providence is forcing families to travel more than 30 minutes to Astoria or more than 75 minutes to Tillamook just to deliver babies.

This closure is devastating for young families but it will negatively affect everyone in our community. With no other options, moms will be sent to the ER leading to longer waits for everyone. This will affect people suffering from heart attacks and broken bones to COVID and car crashes.

Providence’s pattern of cuts will harm caregivers and the health and safety of communities up and down the coast; leaving us all with fewer choices, longer waits and worse healthcare. 

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

Following public outcry and state intervention, Legacy was forced to reopen its birth center at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center in Gresham. Nurses, community leaders and elected officials are all actively pushing back against plans to close family birth centers at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital and Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital in Lincoln City. 

While the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) recognizes that Medicaid cuts and broader attacks on our healthcare system from the Trump administration are serious issues, Providence and other healthcare systems must confront their priorities as profit-driven businesses that dole out lavish executive salaries.  

 
Providence is a $30 billion corporation whose top executives take home millions each year. Patients and caregivers should not be forced to pay the price for corporate greed or political decisions beyond their control.  
 
It’s time for Providence to live up to its mission and make real investments in our communities and provide Oregonians with the care they deserve.  

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MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Sunday, August 17

Noon

WHAT: Advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Health System will host a summer solidarity event on the beach at Cathedral Park in North Portland Sunday, Aug. 17 starting at noon. The event includes a barbeque, music and a float on the river to show their unity as they bargain their first union contracts. 

The APPs work in Legacy’s adult and pediatric specialty departments throughout the Portland metro area. They are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA).

WHEN: Sunday, August 17 beginning at noon.

WHERE: The public beach at Cathedral Park, 6635 N. Baltimore Ave., Portland, OR. 

WHO: ONA represents more than 250 APPs (physician associates, nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives and clinical nurse specialists) in the Legacy Health System. Surgical residents from Legacy, who are represented by AFSCME, will join in support along with APPs from other Portland area health systems. Everyone is welcome!

WHY: Legacy APPs decided to form a union after years of feeling undervalued, unrecognized and excluded from decision-making, despite the fact that they make up about one third of the providers in the Legacy Health System. They are frustrated that their ongoing contributions to patient care and programmatic development—and to the multidisciplinary teams they serve—remain invisible to senior leadership.

The key issues at the bargaining table include: 

• Retention of APPs to prevent burnout and improve morale 
• Respect for the work APPs do within Legacy Health System 
• Input in decision-making and recognition of the skill/experience/perspective of APPs 
• Maintain high standards for patient safety 
• Investment in APPs so they can continue to thrive and grow in their careers 

There are 11 ONA bargaining units in negotiations for first contracts. That amounts to almost 3,200 frontline health care workers. An additional 400 RNs from two bargaining units are trying to secure successor agreements. 

This is a rain-or-shine event. Water activities may change based on health and safety information.   

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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.

Peter Starzynski, Starzynski@OregonRN.org, 503-960-7989

Portland, Ore. – More than two years after forming their union and after 21 months of bargaining, 400 registered nurses (RNs) at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, citing Legacy Health’s refusal to make meaningful investments in recruiting and retaining frontline caregivers, patient care, and fair wages and benefits.

Frontline nurses at Legacy Mount Hood are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). 

“Mount Hood nurses have been more than patient. After nearly two years at the bargaining table, Legacy executives still refuse to address critical issues like fair pay and caps on insurance premiums—changes we need to recruit and retain the skilled nurses our patients rely on,” said Lillie Charron, a nurse at Legacy Mount Hood and ONA vice-chair of the bargaining team. “We don’t want to strike, but if management continues to slow-roll negotiations, we are united and ready to act.”

Nurses at Legacy Mount Hood are demanding: 

• A voice in decision-making about patient care and workplace conditions 
• Fair compensation that is competitive with other health systems to recruit and retain more nurses
• Quality, affordable healthcare
• Protections against shifts being unilaterally shortened by management 
• Appropriate compensation for RNs who work during times of crisis including inclement weather. 

“We’re the ones at the bedside every day — we know our patients best,” Charron said. “We formed our union to speak up for the people we care for. A fair contract will help recruit and retain the nurses our community depends on, so every patient gets the safe, quality care they deserve.”

The vote does not set a strike date. Nurses are hoping upcoming mediation sessions on August 22 and 28 will result in a fair agreement and avert a strike. If a deal is not reached, nurses say they are prepared to act—and they have the support of RNs and frontline caregivers across the Legacy system.

Background on Legacy Mt Hood RNs 

In January 2023, Legacy announced plans to close Mount Hood’s Family Birth Center—a move nurses, and the community successfully opposed, prompting the Oregon Health Authority to block the closure. The center reopened in April 2023. Nurses say the fight underscored the need for a strong union voice in patient care decisions. They won their union election and joined the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) that same month, with bargaining for their first contract beginning in December 2023. 

Background on Legacy Health 

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

The strike authorization comes amid a broader push for frontline caregivers at Legacy Health to unionize. Eleven ONA bargaining units—representing nearly 3,400 caregivers—are currently negotiating with Legacy, seeking improvements in staffing, wages, benefits, transparency, and workplace safety. ONA’s sister union, Northwest Medicine United (NWMU), represents another 475 healthcare professionals, including physicians, who are also bargaining their first contracts with Legacy.

In recent years, Legacy executives have dramatically increased their own compensation—with executive spending growing by 90% from 2019-2023—even as they delay fair contracts for nurses and frontline caregivers.

Despite executives’ claims of financial hardship, Legacy reports having “a strong balance sheet,” more than 180 days of cash on hand, and a $1.3 billion investment portfolio that has generated $436 million in returns since 2019 — profits not counted in operating income.

Interviews are available upon request. 

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MEDIA ADVISORY: CONGRESSIONAL TOWN HALL ON MEDICAID CUTS AND HOSPITAL CLOSURE RISKS IN CENTRAL OREGON
Thursday, August 14 at 6 p.m.
Media interview opportunities at 5:30 p.m.

WHAT: The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is hosting a congressional town hall to discuss the impacts of Medicaid cuts in the "Big Beautiful Bill" and their impact on hospitals, patients, and communities in Central Oregon. The event will feature U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum (OR-5), ONA President Tamie Cline, RN, and other community leaders. U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz (OR-2) has been invited but has not confirmed attendance.

Speakers will address how federal Medicaid cuts could threaten access to care, reduce essential hospital services, and worsen staffing shortages in rural and underserved communities. Participants will be available for interviews immediately before the event. 

WHEN: Thursday, August 14, 2025  6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Media availability at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Madras Performing Arts Center – 412 SE Buff Street Madras, OR 97741

WHO: 

• U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum, Oregon’s 5th Congressional District 

• Tamie Cline, RN, President, Oregon Nurses Association ​

U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District has been invited.

WHY: Medicaid cuts in the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” are expected to affect 200,000 Oregonians and threaten hospitals across the state—potentially leading to service reductions or even closures. Rural areas and smaller communities—where hospitals are already struggling to maintain services—will feel the greatest impact. This town hall is an opportunity for Central Oregon residents to hear directly from lawmakers and healthcare advocates, ask questions, and share their own experiences.

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Speakers will be available for one-on-one interviews immediately before the event. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: programs@orsingers.org

Breast Cancer Awareness Concert Sing for the Cure: A Proclamation of Hope Brings Oregon Repertory Singers to the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Presented by the Kuni Foundation.

Portland, OR – October 11, 2025 — For the first time, Oregon Repertory Singers (ORS), under the direction of Ethan Sperry, Gil Seeley Artistic Director & Conductor, headlines at Portland’s iconic Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall with purpose. Sing for the Cure: A Proclamation of Hope marks a historic milestone not only for the choir but for the community, uniting artists, advocates, survivors, and supporters in a powerful evening of music to raise awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer.

Presented during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sing for the Cure is more than a concert; it’s a cultural call to action. This 70-minute oratorio blends sweeping music, personal storytelling, and moving narration drawn from the real-life experiences of those impacted by breast cancer. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, the nationally acclaimed 10-movement work is being performed in over 10 cities across the U.S., with ORS proud to bring the Northwest premiere to Portland.

With more than 150 singers from Oregon Repertory Singers and the ORS Youth Choir High School Singers, plus an orchestra of 30 professional community musicians, Sing for the Cure promises an unforgettable night of reflection, resilience, and hope. 

“The Kuni Foundation is honored to support Oregon Repertory Singers in bringing the transformative Sing for the Cure to our region—a powerful expression of resilience, advocacy, and hope. Our work is deeply rooted in advancing the power of human potential, and we invest in the bold ideas that propel breakthrough innovations in cancer detection and treatment. We’re deeply grateful to the local artists, patrons, and broader community who have made this evening possible."

A Star-Studded Cast of Narrators & Soloists 

The concert features an extraordinary lineup of narrators and soloists—local icons, survivors, artists, and advocates—bringing each story to life:

• Dr. Nathalie McDowell Johnson, Legacy Health

• Toni Mountain, Breast cancer survivor

• Brandi Parisi, All Classical Radio

• Cheryl Canning, Oregon Repertory Singers

• Patricia Reser, Arts patron & philanthropist

• Tamika Herbert, Author, Speaker, Empowerment Leader, Breast Cancer Conqueror

• Tim Seelig, Acclaimed conductor & advocate

• Jason Sauls, Oregon Public Broadcasting

• JerMichael Riley, Public health leader & soulful storyteller (Soloist)

• LaRhonda Steele, Portland gospel powerhouse (Soloist & Narrator)

• Angela Sears, Spirit Mountain Community Foundation

• Katie Harman, Miss America 2002 (Soloist)

“Sing for the Cure brings two of my greatest passions together—voices raised in harmony and support for people impacted by breast cancer,” says Dr. Nathalie Johnson, Honorary Chair for the concert. “On this magical night, a portion of the [net ticket] proceeds will benefit the outstanding work of the Pink Lemonade Project. What could be better?”

A Concert That Gives Back

A portion of net ticket proceeds will benefit Pink Lemonade Project, which provides critical programs and services for individuals and families affected by breast cancer across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

“This event not only raises awareness for a critical health issue—it also helps fund life-changing programs for people in our community,” said Lauren Bryan, Executive Director of ORS. “By purchasing a ticket, you’re supporting Pink Lemonade Project and helping to amplify the transformative power of the arts. If you or someone you love has been touched by breast cancer, this night is for you.”

Pink Lemonade Project is making an impact and deepening partnerships to serve individuals and families along their breast cancer journey by improving access to care, survivorship rates, and quality of life.

“We are deeply grateful for the support of Oregon Repertory Singers and the Kuni Foundation. Sing for the Cure celebrates the resilience of our community and will help us expand access to vital resources for breast cancer patients and survivors,” said Susan Stearns, CEO of Pink Lemonade Project.

Additional sponsors include All Classical Radio (Media Sponsor), Moda Health, Natera, OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, Compass Oncology, Cambia Health, and Unitus Community Credit Union.

More Than a Concert: Community Activities

In addition to the performance, ORS is launching three community-wide activities to engage the public:

• Orchestrating Hope – A sponsorship campaign inviting medical professionals and cancer advocates to sponsor an orchestra musician, symbolizing the healing connection between music and medicine. Learn more here.
   

• Drink Pink – Participating wineries and tasting rooms across the region will offer ticket discounts and raise awareness from Labor Day weekend through October 1. Full list at orsingers.org.
   

• Pink Weekend – Special hotel packages at The Duniway and The Heathman Hotel offer exclusive rates and 10% off Sing for the Cure tickets. The weekend culminates in the 19th annual Girlfriends Run/Walk on Sunday morning, October 12, at the Vancouver Waterfront. Learn more here. 

Event Details

Sing for the Cure: A Proclamation of Hope
Saturday, October 11, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland, OR
Tickets and information: www.orsingers.org
Ticket prices range from $26 - $104 (including fees)
A portion of the net ticket proceeds benefits the Pink Lemonade Project

Artists are available for media interviews upon request.

2025–2026 Season Oregon Repertory Singers Performances:

• Glory of Christmas: December 7, 13 & 14, 2025 | First United Methodist Church

• Walking the Path: April 25 & 26, 2026 | First United Methodist Church

IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 18, 2025

Press contact:

Monice Wong: mwong@portlandalliance.com

Portland Staycation Weekend by Locals for Locals

Downtown Portland hotels offer exclusive deals and a front-row seat to the biggest weekend of the year — September 12-14, 2025
 

PORTLAND, OR — Portlanders are invited to become tourists in their own town this fall with Portland Staycation Weekend, a three-day celebration of local pride, urban adventure, and vibrant downtown experiences—all anchored by exclusive hotel offers designed to make booking a room a no-brainer.

Running September 12–14, 2025, Portland Staycation isn’t one single event—it’s a Central City takeover, packed with many events and experiences both big and small. From major highlights like the return of Downtown Sunday Parkways for the first time in nearly a decade, a Timbers home match versus the New York Red Bulls, and the beloved indie festival PDX Pop Now, to pop-ups, special menus, shop happenings, and hotel stays that invite you to see your city through a new lens—an opportunity to reconnect with Portland, on your own terms, in your own backyard. 

Locals are encouraged to pack an overnight bag, book a room at one of Downtown Portland’s participating hotels (full list here), and see their city with fresh eyes through restaurant pop-ups and dynamic events. 

“With world-class events, neighborhood energy, and special perks from local businesses, Portland Staycation Weekend is about falling back in love with the heart of our city—starting by waking up in it.” says Megan Conway, President and CEO of Travel Portland. “We believe in the transformative effects of tourism on travelers and the communities they visit. Now is the perfect time to be a tourist at home. 

Stay and Play: Special Hotel Packages Now Available 

From boutique accommodations to luxury landmarks, participating hotels are rolling out the welcome mat with special packages that include:

• Discounted weekend rates
• Complimentary cocktails or breakfast specials
• Late check-outs and early check-ins
• Exclusive perks from nearby retailers and restaurants
• Many hotels are offering Valet Bike Parking

Each booking comes with access to “PDX Local Pass”, unlocking pop-up events, prizes, and special experiences at businesses across downtown. 

Browse offers and book your stay at PortlandStaycation.com/packages. 

A Weekend Full of Portland-Only Moments 

Throughout the weekend, downtown will come alive with signature Portland experiences, including:

• Downtown Sunday Parkways – On Sunday, September 14, Broadway and key streets go car-free from noon – 5 p.m. for walking, biking, and rolling while enjoying free music and activities, delicious food, and pop-up fun.
• Portland Timbers vs. New York Red Bulls – A high-energy Saturday night match at Providence Park.
• PDX Pop Now! – Portland’s beloved homegrown music festival featuring free, all-ages live performances.

Guests will also discover chef’s-choice menus, Sunday sidewalk surprises, DJ sets, giveaways, and curated experiences from downtown’s restaurants, boutiques, and cultural hubs—all geared toward making downtown feel joyful, walkable, and alive. 

“This weekend is a powerful reminder of Portland's creativity, resilience, and community spirit,” said Mayor Wilson. “When we choose to stay downtown, we’re investing in the businesses, artists, and hospitality workers who help our city thrive. Portland Staycation Weekend brings life to our streets, momentum to our economy, and joy to everyone who visits or calls this place home.”

Why It Matters

Portland Staycation Weekend isn’t just a fun getaway—it’s a show of support for the small businesses, hospitality workers, and creative entrepreneurs who keep downtown thriving. 

“When locals fill hotel rooms and hit the streets, the energy spreads,” said Mike Thelin, another of this event’s architects. “This weekend is about showing up for our city and creating momentum that lasts.”

Plan Your Staycation Today
 

Bring your partner, your best friends, your dog park crew, your kids, or your coworkers—Portland Staycation Weekend is for everyone. Whether you're planning a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a friends’ night out, downtown’s doors are open.

Visit PortlandStaycation.com for the full list of hotel offers, event highlights, and ways to make the most of your downtown stay. 

We’re Portlanders. We show up—for our neighbors, our city, and our future. See you downtown, September 12–14. 
Bring your overnight bag—and your sense of adventure. 

This event is being brought to you by: Visit Downtown Campaign, City of Portland, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), Sunday Parkways, Reimagine Portland, Portland Metro Chamber, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, Prosper Portland, and Travel Portland. 

With special support from: Travel Oregon, Alaska Airlines, Willamette Week, and the Portland Timbers.

For more information:

Monice Wong (she/her)

Media Relations Manager

Portland Metro Chamber

p: 310-987-2268 | mwong@portlandalliance.com

Russell Dickerson to Perform First Post-Album Release Show at Oregon State Fair

Dickerson’s newest album, Famous Back Home, debuts August 22

Oregonians have the opportunity to be one of the first audiences to hear songs from multi-Platinum country artist Russell Dickerson’s new album Famous Back Home. The new album will be released August 22 and Dickerson is set to perform at the Oregon State Fair with Niko Moon on August 23.

Dickerson’s album features 12 tracks and captures his fearless evolution as both an artist and a storyteller, highlighting his genre-defying creativity and emotional depth. The album reflects on the small-town pride, something important to the Tennessee-born artist. The album release coincides with the first day of the Oregon State Fair which starts August 22 and goes through Labor Day.

Dickerson will be performing at L.B. Day Amphitheater, as part of the Columbia Bank Concert Series on Saturday August 23, at 7:30 p.m. A select number of free seats are available at a first come, first served basis, but you can ensure entry to the show, and choose a seating areas, by purchasing tickets at Oregonstatefair.org. There are also VIP ticket options available.

Dickerson will be joined by special guest Niko Moon, a fellow southern artist who is banjo forward, with a swaggy back beat, and guitars that tang as much as twang.

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Links:

•    Concert Tickets: Oregonstatefair.org/tickets

•    Artist info: RussellDickerson.com

About Russell Dickerson:

Multi-Platinum chart-topper and Triple Tigers entertainer Russell Dickerson is no stranger to the grind. After bursting onto the scene, multi-Platinum artist and all-in performer quickly stood out by releasing four consecutive career-launching singles that each reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.  Dickerson has earned platinum or multi-platinum status on hits like “Yours” (3X Platinum), “Blue Tacoma” (2X Platinum), “Love You Like I Used To” (2X Platinum),  and “She Likes It” ft. Jake Scott (2X Platinum). Known for his electric performances, Dickerson will hit the road this year on the RUSSELLMANIA TOUR 2025, extending into amphitheaters this summer with direct support from Jake Scott and Niko Moon on select dates

Russell Dickerson Photo Policy for Media:

Photo: first 3 songs from front of house by the soundboard. No pit, No flash, No onstage or backstage access.

Video: Approved videographers must shoot from front of house by the soundboard for b-roll, limited to the first 60 seconds of the first three songs. No plug-ins to soundboard allowed.

A Dropbox link to photos/videos taken will need to be sent to lane@thegreenroompr.com within 48 hours of the event for approval before servicing + social media use from Russell Dickerson’s camp. Photo Credit will be given.

About the Oregon State Fairgrounds and Exposition Center:

The Oregon State Fair celebrates Oregon’s excellence, showcasing achievements of agriculture, livestock, art, culture and entertainment at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem since 1862. The Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center hosts visitors from all over the world for a variety of events throughout the year, working hand in hand with community agencies to help facilitate emergency and disaster response needs. For more information, contact info@oregonstatefair.org.

For Immediate Release                                                                              Contact: Courtney Dodds

August 14, 2025                                                                                                 Cell: 971-275-2334

More Than 100 Volunteers to Help UGM Prepare New Home for Women and Children

Portland, Ore., - Union Gospel Mission is preparing to open a brand-new building in Washington County at 18555 NW Rock Creek Blvd, Portland, OR 97229. This new building will provide addiction recovery and transitional housing for up to 80 women and children at time. On Saturday, August 16, starting at 9am, Sonrise Church of Hillsboro plans to bring more than 100 volunteers to this new LifeChange Center for Women and Children to ensure the home is ready to welcome its new residents in late August.

Union Gospel Mission recently completed construction on a 53,000 square foot building that has 52 resident rooms for single women and women with children who are seeking to overcome addiction, escapes domestic violence, and heal from trauma. The new home has an education center, a children’s activity center, a commercial kitchen, a counseling center, and a chapel. Over the next 10 years, UGM will plan to offer more than 2,000 women and children a chance at new life. 

“We want to make sure that any woman in our community who finds herself in an unsafe, unstable situation has a safe place to turn. This new home, Angela’s House, is designed to help women move from instability, abuse, trauma, and addiction, to safety, love, trust, community, and hope,” says Matt Stein, Union Gospel Mission Executive Director.

Sonrise is one of many volunteer groups who are coming to the Mission throughout the Month of August to help complete the move-in and set-up of this new home.

If you would like to help the Mission ensure that this program can serve the increased number of women and children who will come in for support visit: ugmportland.org/welcome-home

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals, shelter, and recovery for those experiencing hunger, homelessness, addiction, and abuse. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx

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