The Sandy Fire District #72 Board of Directors will hold a work session on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The agenda will include annexation election results and next steps.  

If you would like to provide a public comment during the work session, you must sign up no later than Monday, December 1^st at 1:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on the Clackamas Fire website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/. 

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).

Please join us by attending online or by phone:

Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device:
Please click this URL to join: https://clackamasfire.zoom.us/j/96391787124

Passcode: 824528

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One tap mobile:

+12532050468,,96391787124#,,,,824528# US

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Join by phone:

US: +1 253 205 0468

Meeting ID: 963 9178 7124

Passcode: 824528

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Clackamas Fire District is proud to celebrate 51 years of Operation Santa Claus, a cherished community tradition that brings holiday cheer while helping local families in need.

This year’s Operation Santa season features five community parades and five donation drop-off events throughout the district. As in recent years, the parades will not collect donations along the routes. Instead, community members are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items to one of the designated drop-off events or participating collection partners.

“For more than five decades, our firefighters and community have come together to support one another during the holidays. That is what makes this tradition so special, and it is something we are incredibly proud to continue,” Doug Whiteley, Clackamas Fire Community Services Division Chief said. 

Operation Santa Claus Parade Schedule: 

Residents can track Santa’s progress in real time using the Santa Tracker on the Clackamas Fire website, helping families plan where to catch the parade as it travels through local neighborhoods.

Donation Drop-Off Events:

Collection Partners:

The following community partners also have collection bins available for donations during regular business hours starting November 17 - December 14. This list is subject to change as additional locations may be added. Please check the Clackamas Fire website for the most current information before sharing or visiting a location.

All donations collected will be distributed through local nonprofit partners such as the Clackamas Service Center, AMEN Group, Sandy Kiwanis, Gladstone School District, Adopt-a-Family, and Bloomin’ Boutique. 

“Every year, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community,” Whiteley added. “Operation Santa continues to be successful because of the kindness of our neighbors, our local partners, and the shared belief that everyone deserves to feel the joy of the holidays.”

For full event details, parade maps, and the Santa Tracker link, visit https://clackamasfire.com/2025-operation-santa-claus/.  

UPDATE: Shayla has been located and is safe. The case is still under investigation.

CASE UPDATE:   Nov 19, 2025

RELEASE DATE:   Nov 18, 2025
CASE NUMBER:     25-47558
 

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a 9-month-old German Shepherd Mix taken in a Central City Neighborhood Robbery.

Shortly before 10:30 p.m., last night, Officers responded to a report of a robbery in the 100 block of W Powell Blvd. Officers arrived and contacted the victim, who had been assaulted. The victim reported he had been attacked by three males and one female that were not known to him. He reported that one of the suspects loaded his 9-month-old puppy, Shayla, into a white Chevy Tahoe or similar vehicle before all the suspects fled in the vehicle. Shayla is described as a German Shepherd / Rottweiler mix.

If anyone has information about this case or the puppy’s whereabouts , they are asked to call non-emergency at 503-823-3333 or the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719.

#30

The Lebanon Fire District responded to a report of an RV fire on Fairview Rd. in the 32000 block. Upon arrival, units found flames shooting through the roof of the RV. Crews swiftly extinguished the fire. Fortunately, the family was not home at the time. A neighbor noticed the flames and acted quickly to rescue the family's pets before they were harmed. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department was made aware of a male in Lincoln City with active warrants for his arrest, including a felony weapons offense.  LCPD Officers located the male, 32-year-old Lincoln City resident Selvin Fajardo Landa, driving near SW Harbor Ave and SW Bard Rd.

Officers tried to stop Fajardo Landa, but he attempted to escape by driving away from the officers at a high rate of speed.  Fajardo Landa eventually stopped his car and fled on foot into the Agnes Creek Open Space.

K9 Nix and her police handler pursued Fajardo Landa on foot until he surrendered.

Fajardo Landa was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on his warrants, as well as additional charges of Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, and two counts of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police. No one involved was injured.

We would like to express our gratitude to the citizens of Lincoln City for their ongoing support of our K9 Program. We have experienced many peaceful surrenders based on the presence of our K9 partners, and are pleased to support our city and neighboring agencies with their hard work.

Submitted By:

Sgt Torin Liden

Under Authority Of:

Chief David Broderick 

HOLIDAY SHOPPING SAFETY

With the holiday season beginning there are many things to keep in mind, including travel safety, winter weather preparation, and shopping security. Below are some tips to keep in mind as you shop this holiday season.  

Shopping In-Stores:

• Be alert and aware. Be attentive to your surroundings.
• Don’t carry more cash or valuables than necessary.
• Take extra precautions with your wallet or purse. Carry your purse with the opening flap next to your body and the strap hung over your shoulder.
• Review shopping safety with children and always know where they are. Before going shopping, decide where to meet if you become separated.
• Always lock your car doors and remember where you park.
• Be sure to place valuables out of sight. Place them in the trunk or take them with you.
• Never hide spare keys in or on your car. If you need spare keys, keep them in your wallet or purse.
• Be alert to suspicious persons or circumstances. Avoid parking where you see someone sitting in their vehicle for no apparent reason.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe in a situation, report it to security immediately.
• When walking in any parking lot, store, airport, shopping center, etc., walk confidently with your head up, make eye contact, and have your keys or phone ready.
• Use appropriate marked driving lanes and obey all traffic signs.
• Drive defensively and courteously.
• Remember, parking lots will be more crowded and checkout lanes will be busier, please be patient and plan to spend more time commuting and shopping.
   

Shopping Online:

• Use trusted and reputable websites with secure payment systems and be cautious with personal information.
• Before entering any sensitive information, make sure the website has a secure connection. Look for a padlock symbol and "https://" in the website URL.
• Use strong and unique passwords for your online accounts.
• Keep your devices, operating systems, and security software up to date to protect your device and information.
• Be aware of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers use enticing offers to trick shoppers.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off about a website or a product, trust your gut and consider shopping elsewhere.
• Help prevent packages from being stolen:
  • Schedule deliveries to arrive when you will be home or have them delivered to your office.
  • Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your packages if you won’t be home.
  • Install a security camera on your property.
  • Have packages delivered to a shipping store. If you hold a post office box, use USPS for shipping and take advantage of their package lockers to receive your items. Some post offices allow boxholders to use it’s street address, with the customer’s box number as the “unit” number for deliveries from other carriers.
     

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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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and East Metro SWAT Team have arrested two people and seized six firearms, body armor, cocaine, methamphetamine, and drug manufacturing materials from a Gresham home.

“Our deputies are doing great work keeping our communities in Multnomah County safe,” said MCSO Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Their continued efforts to remove illegally possessed firearms and drugs reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing violence and protecting the public."

On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, MCSO deputies, with the assistance of the East Metro SWAT Team, MCSO Logistics Evidence Unit, and MCSO detectives served a court-authorized search warrant at a house in the 2500 block of Northwest 4th Street in Gresham.

The investigation originated from a series of community-based complaints about potential illegal activities occurring from within the house.

During the search warrant, deputies seized six rifles, a bulletproof vest, drugs and drug manufacturing equipment – leading to two arrests.

The suspects in this case are identified as 49-year-old Tai Nguyen and 76-year-old Craig Larson.

Deputies booked Nguyen into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on one count each of unlawful manufacture of cocaine, unlawful distribution of cocaine, and unlawful possession of cocaine.

Deputies booked Larson into MCDC on one count each of unlawful manufacture of cocaine, unlawful distribution of cocaine, unlawful possession of cocaine, and unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Additional charges may be considered by the district attorney’s office as the investigation continues.

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

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

A photo of the evidence seized during the search warrant is released. Media may use this photo with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

No additional details about this investigation can be released at this time.

About East Metro SWAT Team:

The East Metro SWAT Team provides law enforcement agencies in Multnomah County with a designated team whose members are recruited, selected, trained and equipped to resolve critical tactical incidents involving significant threats to the safety of our community and where such incidents may exceed the abilities of traditional law enforcement tactics or the capabilities of first responders and/or investigative units. East Metro SWAT is comprised of Multnomah County sheriff’s deputies and Gresham Police officers, and includes members specially trained in crisis negotiation and drone operations.

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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Officers and sheriff deputies with TriMet’s Transit Police Division have arrested a 33-year-old man who is accused of driving a stolen vehicle, refusing to stop for police, and then crashing into multiple cars during rush hour.

This investigation began around 5 p.m. on Monday November 24, 2025, when Transit Police patrolling near the Delta Park/Vanport MAX Station found an occupied stolen van along North Union Court. When officers attempted to stop the van, the driver, later identified as Ryan Anthony Salt, took off.

Traffic at the time was described by officers as extremely heavy. Officers did not pursue but maintained sight of the van from a distance.

Salt is accused of recklessly driving and endangering multiple people as he drove on the shoulder and into oncoming traffic.

After crashing into a total of four vehicles, Salt allegedly stopped, got out of the stolen van, and ran across all lanes of I-5, forcing several drivers to slam on their brakes.

Officers gave a description of Salt and maintained eyesight of him as he continued running. During the investigation, officers recovered a firearm believed to have been in Salt’s possession.

None of the crashes resulted in critical injuries.

Officers from the Portland Police Bureau located and arrested Salt near I-5 and North Marine Drive.

Transit Police booked him into the Multnomah County Detention Center on one count each of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen vehicle, attempting to elude by vehicle, and being a felon in possession of a firearm – all felony charges.

He was also booked into jail on five counts of reckless endangering, four counts of failure to perform the duties of a driver, and one count each of unlawful entry to a motor vehicle, attempt to elude on foot, and reckless driving – all misdemeanor charges.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Portland Police Bureau for their assistance.

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

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

About Transit Police: 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties.

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

###

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is recognizing a 46-year-old man who rescued a 38-year-old man from the Columbia River.

“This is a moment that captures the very best of what our community in Multnomah County looks like,” said MCSO Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “It was one of those moments when everything seemed to align perfectly, and it was a moment that brought two heroes together to save a life even though they were miles apart.”

“Putting aside his own safety for someone else, Solomon jumped into action and saved a life through his quick, calm, and skilled intervention,” said BOEC Interim Director Steve Mawdsley. "I am so thankful that a team of professional first responders, including BOEC Senior Dispatcher Holly Campbell, worked together with a concerned member of the public to respond to an emergency with professionalism and compassion."

At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, the City of Portland’s Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received a 911 call from Solomon Florea requesting medical help for a man he rescued from the Columbia River near the North Portland Harbor.

Florea said he was home when he saw an empty sailboat floating on the river and a man bobbing in the water near the boat. It’s still not entirely known how the man ended up in the river in distress.

Acting quickly, Florea kayaked to the patient and pulled him from the water, wrapping him in layers once ashore to restore the man’s body temperature.

It is unclear how long the patient had been submerged in the cold water. Deputies with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit estimate the water temperature on that day to be around 57 degrees.

While the patient was conscious, he was reportedly extremely cold and disoriented. Throughout the course of the rescue, the patient started to deteriorate.

Florea provided updates to a BOEC call taker while requesting paramedics. Throughout the rescue’s duration, the patient can be heard shivering in the background.

Florea calmly and compassionately reassured the patient that help would arrive soon.

The area where Florea pulled the man to shore has extremely limited vehicle access. Florea’s knowledge of the local geography on Hayden Island allowed Portland Fire & Rescue’s Marine Program and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit to locate both men.

Firefighters and paramedics treated the patient on scene.

American Medical Response, Inc. (AMR) took the patient to the hospital.

The person Solomon rescued reportedly had the appropriate boating and water safety equipment, including a flotation device, whistle and cellphone, but still could not self-rescue.  

Doctors treated and released the patient. No additional details about him can be released.

Multnomah County is fortunate to have such great access to local waterways for recreational and commercial purposes. However, both the Columbia and Willamette rivers can be dangerous year-round. The primary factors contributing to river rescues and deaths include operator misjudgment, reckless conduct, collisions with other vessels, and passengers falling into the water.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reminds boaters and people who will be on or near our local waterways that effective boating starts with a strategic mindset.

• Always file a float plan with a trusted friend or family member.
• Always maintain situational awareness when on or near local waterways, paying close attention to changing conditions.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD) whenever near or on waterways.
• Enroll in boater safety and first aid courses that focus on water rescue and survival
• Ensure your life jacket and other rescue equipment, such as emergency rescue buoys and other throwable flotation devices are stored in a manner for quick access in an emergency situation.
• Ensure your watercraft is prepared with lifesaving equipment as required by Oregon law.
• Never operate a watercraft of any type or swim in bodies of water while impaired.

DOWNLOADABLE MATERIAL

• BOEC 911 calls

Note: There are three calls in total. The first is the initial 911 call, the last two are outgoing calls from BOEC to Florea as firefighters and MCSO deputies responded.

About MCSO’s River Patrol Unit

The River Patrol Unit provides public safety services to 110 miles of waterways in Multnomah County, including the Columbia, Willamette and Sandy rivers, as well as the Multnomah Channel. River Patrol Unit deputies respond to emergency calls for service, provide boating-safety examinations and conduct criminal and accident investigations. Created in 1960, the River Patrol Unit is well established, the team of deputies are very active in the community, often attending events and expos, and providing outreach and educational opportunities year-round.

###

Editor’s Note: The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is providing audio files of Florea’s 911 call in cooperation with the City of Portland’s Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC). Please credit BOEC when using their audio. All necessary redactions have been made by BOEC.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Members of the Transit Police Division (TPD) and the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) have safely arrested a 36-year-old man who is accused of using a weapon to threaten transit security guards in the Hazelwood neighborhood.

This investigation began at 12:56 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, when the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received information about an alleged disturbance involving a man, later identified as a 36-year-old man. The man reportedly threatened two transit security guards with a weapon. The specific details of the incident remain under investigation, including details about the weapon.

Portland Police found the suspect near Northeast 131^st Street and East Burnside Street.

Law enforcement quickly established probable cause to arrest the man.

As officers began efforts to form an arrest team, the suspect continued walking east to Northeast 133^rd Avenue and East Burnside Street. The suspect made repeated threats to harm police.  

Portland Police officers began talking to the suspect, but he refused orders to surrender and did not comply. Officers surrounded the area to prevent the suspect from escaping or threatening anyone else.

As law enforcement continued their efforts to speak with the suspect, they saw him holding a weapon and a rock.

Law enforcement gave the man repeated warnings about use of force as they worked to develop a plan to take him into custody.

Out of an abundance of caution and to support public safety, law enforcement requested TriMet temporarily suspend MAX service in the area. Portland Police and Transit Police shut down traffic on East Burnside Street from Northeast 122^nd Avenue and Northeast 148^th Avenue.

At approximately 1:35 p.m., having exhausted their de-escalation efforts, Transit Police and Portland Police implemented their arrest plan and took the man into custody following the deployment of less than lethal foam impact rounds and a conducted energy weapon (CEW), commonly known as a TASER.

Officers requested the 36-year-old man be evaluated by medical personnel. The man did not present any serious physical injuries.

The man will be booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges that include menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, and interfering with public transportation.

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

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

About Transit Police: 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties.

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

###

Josephine County, Ore. (24 Nov. 2025)- On Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 2:04 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 62, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet S10, operated by Annette Dea Dimmick (34) of Grants Pass, was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes for unknown reasons and struck a northbound Volvo commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by David Michael Jellison (68) of Alliance (OH), head-on.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Dimmick) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Volvo (Jellison) and passenger, Ceejay Clay (29) of Warren (OH), suffered reported minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass 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.

Polk County, Ore. (Nov. 21, 2025)- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2:56 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 51, near milepost 4, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Ranger, operated by Kyle Edward Maldonado (23) of Keizer, left the roadway for unknown reasons and rolled down a slope.

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

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

OSP was assisted by the Polk County Sheriff's Office, Polk County Fire, Independence Police Department, 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.

At 7:01am Portland Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched to reports of a fire on the main floor of a two story town home at 5527 SW Multnomah Blvd. While en route dispatch notified that there were 2 individuals stuck on a rear balcony without a way to get down. The first arriving Engine company took command and noted heavy smoke and fire and immediately went to work trying to rescue the trapped occupants.  While this crew was attempting a search to locate victims, the second arriving Engine company connected to a hydrant and laid in their hose lines for fire attack.  The first arriving Truck company was given the assignment to help with searching for victims. While crews were searching, the two victims were able to self extricate from the unit. One jumped from a second story balcony on the front side of the unit, and another from a rear balcony.

At this point a second alarm was called.  With multiple victims and crews still working on a primary search of the unit, and fire attack working to control the fire, more resources were needed on scene. 

Fire attack worked quickly to control and extinguish the fire preventing any extension into the neighboring homes. The fire unit was a middle unit of 3 townhomes within the complex.

The fire was extinguished and three victims were transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

During the debrief of the incident, a head on collision occurred near SW 55th Avenue and SW Barbur Blvd.  Initial reports were that were was one occupant pined in a vehicle.  Several crews on scene of the fire were able to leave and quickly make it over to the accident to work and extricating the patient.  That patient was transported to a hospital with injuries. 

Structure Fire Response

PFR Units: 16

TVFR Units: 4

Fire Ops Personnel: 51

Injuries: 3

Cause: Under Investigation 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: November 20, 2025

Update | 08/27/2025 | 5:00 p.m.

Victims identified

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

Police investigating two separate overnight fatal shootings

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

1600 block 40^th PL SE

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

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

Wallace Marine Park

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

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

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

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

# # #

At 7:17 AM this morning the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the 15000 block of NE 4th CIR in east Vancouver for a house fire. Neighbors had called 911 after seeing flames "coming from the roof" and were able to knock on the door and notifiy the residents, who were able to exit safely. Crews arrived within just 5 minutes and found smoke and flames coming out of the front of the house. Hose lines were stretched inside of the structure to extinguish the fire while crews cut holes through the roof using chain saws for ventilation. The fire, which had extended to the attic, was mostly extinguished within 10 minutes. VFD crews are still operating on scene and no injuries were reported. 2 adults and 2 children are displaced and red cross was requested to assist them. A total of 8 fire units with a total of 22 firefighters were on scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office. 

This morning at 6:46, Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to 8300 NE 137^th Ave for a commercial structure fire.  Many callers reported the fire due to its direct view from Padden Parkway during the morning commute.  Upon arrival, firefighters found a large drop box style dumpster on fire up against the loading docks.  Fire crews quickly started attacking the fire and forced entry into the building.  Fortunately, fire had not extended into the structure and resulted in only exterior damage with light smoke on the interior.  The Clark County Fire Marshals office is investigating.   

At approximately 12:25 p.m. on November 20, 2025, the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a heater on fire in the garage of a home at 13022 NE 55th St.

Firefighters arrived to find an active fire in the garage. Crews quickly extinguished the flames and contained the fire to the garage.

Two residents were displaced and are in contact with American Red Cross. No injuries were reported.

A total of 25 firefighters responded to the incident.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2025

City of Vancouver Fire Department Welcomes New Fire Engine with Traditional “Push-In” Ceremony at Station 6

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver Fire Department proudly celebrated the arrival of its newest fire engine with a time-honored “Push-In” ceremony at Fire Station 6 on November 17. Fire personnel gathered to officially welcome the state-of-the-art apparatus into service. This marks the second new fire engine Vancouver Fire has placed into service this year.

The new engine, manufactured by KME, a member of the REV Group, represents a significant investment in public safety and emergency response capabilities for the Vancouver community. Equipped with advanced technology, modern safety systems, and enhanced operational features, the engine will support firefighters in delivering faster, safer, and more effective emergency services.

The “Push-In” tradition dates back to the 1800s, when fire companies operated horse-drawn steam engines. After returning from calls, firefighters would unhitch the horses—who could not back the equipment into the station—and physically push the engine into the bay. Today, fire departments across the nation continue the practice as a symbolic tribute to the profession’s heritage.

“Today’s ceremony connects us to our history while marking an exciting moment for our department and community,” said Captain Egan. “This new engine enhances our ability to protect lives and property, and the ‘Push-In’ honors the generations of firefighters who built the traditions we proudly uphold.”

Firefighters from Station 6, along with expert emergency vehicle technician mechanics from the department’s fleet shop at Fire Station 5, participated in pushing the engine into its bay, marking its official entry into service. The event also recognized the dedication of Vancouver’s fire personnel and the continued support of residents and city leadership.

“This engine is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a reflection of our community’s commitment to safety and resilience. Today we are happy to have assistance from our brothers who work in the shops at Fire Station 5 and maintain our fleet of emergency vehicles. We could not perform our jobs to the consistency that we do without the tireless effort of the expert mechanics in our shops who maintain our vehicles to the highest level possible. They are an integral part of our firefighting family and help us in delivering our services,” Captain Egan added.

The City of Vancouver Fire Department extends its gratitude to the community members and city leaders whose ongoing support makes advancements like this possible.

Media Contact:

City of Vancouver Fire Department
Public Information Office
Phone: (360) 869-3914
Email: cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
Website: www.cityofvancouver.us/departments/fire-department/

On November 22 at just after midnight, a 17-year-old male and his mother met officers at the Vancouver Police Department East Precinct, driving a 2008 Nissan Versa. After an interview with police, the juvenile was booked into the Juvenile Detention Center for four counts of Vehicular Assault and four counts of Felony Hit and Run.

The adult male victim, 30 years of age, remains hospitalized in critical condition. The children ages 10, 7 and 6 were hospitalized with non- life- threatening injuries.

The investigation is ongoing and nothing further is being released at this time. 

Vancouver, Wash. – On November 21, 2025, at around 3:20 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to SE 136^th Avenue/SE 7^th Street for a hit and run collision involving an adult male and three kids who were hit by a vehicle that fled from the scene.

All four victims were transported to area hospitals for evaluation and treatment of injuries. Condition information is not available at this time.

SE 136^th Avenue and SE 7^th Street were shut down while emergency personnel were on scene and have since reopened.

Video in the area captured an image of the suspect vehicle which appears to be a 2007-2011 Nissan Versa with likely damage to the front driver’s side.

Anyone with information on the location of this vehicle or information about the suspect is asked to contact the Vancouver Police Department.

The Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is investigating.

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In April 2017, detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit began an investigation into Patrick Robert Shea O’Connor after receiving a report of sexual abuse involving a child. During the investigation, detectives learned that the abuse occurred in multiple places throughout Oregon, as well as in Seattle, where O’Connor was living. Seattle Police also began an investigation into O’Connor for abuse that occurred in their jurisdiction.

In January 2018, a Washington County grand jury indicted O’Connor on the following charges:

• Using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct (4 counts)
• Sexual abuse in the first degree (3 counts)
• Luring a minor (5 counts)
• Attempted sodomy in the first degree (4 counts)

At the time of his indictment, investigators believed that O’Connor fled the country. Detectives worked with federal partners to locate O’Connor but were unsuccessful. In November 2025, investigators received information that O’Connor was living in Syracuse, New York. The United States Marshal Service (USMS) coordinated with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, and O’Connor was arrested in Syracuse on November 20, 2025. 

On Sunday, November 23, 2025, at just before 3:00 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 text to dispatch for a distressed mushroom picker in a remote area of Washington County near the Barney Reservoir.

Deputies learned that a 72-year-old woman was out collecting seasonal chanterelle mushrooms when she entered an area from which she was unable to get out due to slick terrain and a steep incline. Deputies from both the Washington and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Offices responded to aid in locating the woman.

Initial search efforts were unsuccessful, and additional resources were called to assist, including Search and Rescue (SAR) teams from Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia Counties, along with Hillsboro and the Oregon State Police. Searchers also deployed drones and a K9.

Several hours into the search, the woman was located by using GPS coordinates from the drone and ground searchers. The woman used a whistle she had brought with her to help guide the search teams to her location. SAR used a rope system to reach her and assist her in getting back out.

Aside from being cold, wet, and thirsty, the woman did not report any injuries.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the collaborative efforts of all the responders and thankful that the woman was safely located. If you choose to adventure into natural areas, remember to dress for the weather, bring a whistle, food, water, and tell others where you are going. In this instance, preparation contributed to a positive outcome. 

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the City of Cornelius, in partnership with the Washington County Sheriff's Office, hosted the 10th Annual Cornelius Community Dinner. Partners were delighted to serve a free holiday meal to all community members in attendance.

The event, held at Cornelius Elementary School, provided over 400 meals featuring turkey, dinner rolls, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, dessert, and beverages.

The opportunity to share a meal and engage in conversation with fellow community members makes the Cornelius Community Dinner a truly special event that many look forward to each year. This cherished annual event not only strengthens community bonds but also spreads holiday cheer during this season of giving.

“The tradition of the Cornelius Community Dinner was first started by former Police Chief Gene Moss. Gene believed Cornelius needed a place where everyone could gather and be welcomed. This week carried a lot of uncertainty in our community, and we weren’t sure how many families would feel comfortable joining us. But Cornelius showed its heart. Moments like this remind us that circumstances don’t define community; it’s defined by how we show up for one another,” said Cornelius Police Chief Mitch Coley.

This dinner was made possible through generous donations, volunteer efforts, and the collaboration of local community partners, including:

• Bimbo Bakeries USA                                               
• Boro Burger Food Truck
• Botten's Equipment and Event Rental
• Bunny Girt - State Farm Insurance
• Cornelius Booster Club
• Cornelius Elementary School
• Cornelius Public Library
• Evergreen Disposal and Recycling, Inc.
• Forest Grove and Cornelius Chamber of Commerce
• Fred Meyer
• Reser's Fine Foods
• Sheriff's Office Foundation of Washington County
• Sodexo
• Starbucks
• Walmart
• Washington County Police Officers Association
• Western Washington County Firefighters' 

During a Special Meeting today, the Woodburn City Council unanimously adopted Council Bill 3289 (attached) declaring a local state of emergency due to the economic and humanitarian crisis resulting from federal immigration enforcement actions occurring within the City.

In recent weeks, the City has heard from community members and partners about the widespread fear amongst residents, leading to a measured decline in workforce participation, attendance in schools, and those willing to report crime. The current crisis also further strains local food banks and other non-profit service providers. In Woodburn, immigrants, foreign-born and refugee populations comprise a vitally important workforce for our regional economy. The Woodburn Community is 63% Latino, with 31% of the total population, including those born outside of the United States.

Mayor Frank Lonergan stated that the emergency declaration is in direct response to the federal government’s actions in Woodburn. “It’s outrageous that masked agents, many who are unidentified as agents, are sweeping people off our streets, leaving families, children and employers in fear and complete limbo,” said Lonergan. The City’s emergency declaration reaffirms its commitment to Oregon Revised Statutes 180.805 and 180.820 through 181A.820, which designates all local governments as sanctuary cities and counties.

“I want people to understand that it’s not just undocumented farmworkers that are being impacted, but American citizens. Citizens who are afraid to do business and go to work out of fear of being targeted by federal agents because of the color of their skin alone,” said City Councilor Mark Wilk, “Not only does racial profiling set our country back decades, it undermines the legitimacy of all law enforcement as well as our local economy. The erosion of civil liberties affects everyone.”

As part of the City Council’s action, Woodburn’s City Manager is directed to allocate up to $30,000 from the City’s General Fund to help mitigate the impact federal immigration enforcement is having on families and businesses, as well as access to food, housing, and mental health services. The declaration also authorizes seeking additional resources and working with state and community partners while continuing to ensure the City’s compliance with Oregon’s sanctuary laws.

City Council President Sharon Schaub said, “It just breaks my heart knowing that families are being separated and that children are afraid to attend school. It is imperative that we treat people with dignity and respect and honor the civil rights of all people. We cannot overlook these core American values in our own community.”

The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. In April, officers and detectives from WPD began an investigation into a report involving the possible sexual assault of a juvenile.

Through detailed and collaborative work, detectives uncovered that an adult male from Washington had traveled across state lines to harm a minor. Working closely with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kent, Washington Police Department, the Snoqualmie, Washington Police Department, and the Washington Department of Corrections, investigators identified the offender as James “Jake” Harrison Newcomer, a 29-year-old registered sex offender who had removed his ankle monitor.

On Monday, November 17, 2025, Newcomer was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 17 years in prison. We are grateful for the teamwork between agencies that led to a successful prosecution.

For full details, please see the press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/registered-sex-offender-who-cut-ankle-bracelet-and-committed-more-sex-crimes-against

Kaiser Permanente Dental teams showed their commitment to community health during a free community dental clinic at Cascade Park Dental Office in Vancouver, Wash., on Saturday, Nov. 15. In partnership with Kaiser Permanente Northwest Community Health and the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington, the event provided essential dental services to 39 patients, delivering more than $28,000 in care to neighbors who need it most.

Volunteer dentists Lloyd Chang, DDS; Matthew Chung, DDS; Benjamin An, DDS; Mailiki Patterson, DDS; Hatai Jivagunchainan, DMD; and Thien-Y Hoang, DMD worked alongside nearly 30 Kaiser Permanente Dental team members who supported patient care, clinic operations and outreach. The clinic is part of Kaiser Permanente’s ongoing effort to improve access to care for vulnerable community members across Clark County.

“Access to dental care is crucial to overall health and wellness,” said Thien-y Hoang, DMD. “When people live with significant dental decay or oral infections, it isn’t just painful — it can put real strain on the body. Those infections increase the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream, which can lead to heart problems and weaken the immune system. Helping patients address these issues is one of the most meaningful ways we can support their health.”

Beginning today through Dec. 12, Bend Fire & Rescue invites the community to bring non-perishable food donations to any of our fire stations to help combat food insecurity for local families in need this holiday season.

Bend Fire is asking for donations of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried pasta and grains, and items like honey and sugar. Some of the most needed items include canned fruits and vegetables, soup and peanut butter. Donated food will be provided to NeighborImpact and distributed through their network of local pantries, meal sites, and shelters.

Help us put food on the table and keep bellies full this season by donating your non-perishable food items to any of the bins stationed outside at the following locations:

• Bend Fire & Rescue Stations:
  • West Fire Station – 1212 SW Simpson Ave., Bend
  • East Fire Station – 62420 Hamby Rd., Bend
  • North Fire Station – 63377 Jamison St., Bend
  • South Fire Station – 61080 Country Club Dr., Bend
  • Tumalo Fire Station – 64725 Cook Ave., Tumalo
  • Pilot Butte Fire Station – 425 NE 15th St., Bend 

Thank you for helping give back to our neighbors this season. Learn more about the NeighborImpact Food Bank at neighborimpact.org/get-help/foodbank/.

Looking for more ways to give?

• Bend Fire & Rescue’s Santa Express is coming to Bend neighborhoods Dec. 5, 6 and 8 collecting donations of new toys, gently used coats and non-perishable food. Learn more about this fun community event at bendoregon.gov/santa-express.  
• NeighborImpact’s Online Food Drive allows you to donate fresh produce and healthy staples for local food banks.
• Donate money to NeighborImpact or a food pantry near you.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

PacifiCorp reaches settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs related to the 2020 Labor Day Fires​

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PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 19, 2025) — PacifiCorp has reached a $150 million settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs associated with Labor Day 2020 fires. Since 2020, the company has settled nearly 4,200 wildfire claims for $1.6 billion, which represents approximately 70 percent of individual claims in California and Oregon. The vast majority of the remaining claims are a part of the James class action litigation.

“We are doing the responsible thing and we are gratified to resolve these claims to provide plaintiffs with some closure to move on,” said Ryan Flynn, Pacific Power president. “The process that led to this settlement represents the fairest and most efficient way to resolve wildfire litigation. Class action litigation is costly, complex, takes several years to run its course and is a barrier to reasonable outcomes.”

PacifiCorp remains willing to settle all outstanding reasonable claims related to the Echo Mountain, 242 and South Obenchain fires. Nearly 20 percent of plaintiffs in the James class action have now settled with PacifiCorp.

Due to the compelling findings in the Oregon Department of Forestry report that concluded PacifiCorp’s assets did not initiate or contribute to the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, the company will continue to actively defend against those claims.​

Plaintiffs in the settlement are represented by the Warren Allen, Swigart Law Group and Spreter | Petiprin law firms.​

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“We are glad to have reached reasonable settlements with PacifiCorp for our current clients,” said George McCoy, an attorney at Warren Allen. “Those outcomes reflect a shared commitment with PacifiCorp to resolving disputes through a principled approach that serves affected Oregon communities. This matter will not be resolved through targeted or punitive legislation. It will not be resolved through a drawn-out trial process. Rather, it will be resolved by continuing the collaborative problem-solving approach used to reach this agreement that benefits Oregonians. We will continue our efforts to help rebuild Oregon communities recovering from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires.”​

The settlement not only provides relief for those impacted by the Labor Day 2020 fires, but is also a critical step in stabilizing the financial health of the company and ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable power to over 2 million customers across six-states, including 630,000 customers in Oregon​.

“This settlement between plaintiffs’ counsel and PacifiCorp demonstrates that the parties can come to the table and work out agreements to compensate Oregonians impacted by wildfire,” said Oregon Representative Pam Marsh, D-Ashland. “We need our utilities to keep the lights on and to make continued investments building out the electrical grid to support growth throughout our state. To do that, they must be in a place where the market and investors see them as stable.”

The parties engaged Judge Peter Lichtman (Ret.) of Signature Resolution to preside over the negotiations that resulted in this settlement.

"For the last five-plus years, I have served as Special Master and Mediator in Wildfire matters that have unfortunately affected the Southwestern Region of the United States, inclusive of Oregon,” said Judge Lichtman. “In mediating this and other Labor Day 2020 fire cases, I found PacifiCorp to be professional, engaged, and genuinely committed to resolving valid claims that were presented to it. PacifiCorp has consistently carried out its settlement negotiations in good faith, making sure that the outcomes are fair and reasonable to the affected families.”

Today’s settlement follows other recent settlements between PacifiCorp and more than 90 Oregon wineries and timber companies, reached over the past month with the assistance of Judge Karsten H. Rasmussen (Ret.) a retired Lane County Circuit Court Judge who served 19 years on the bench, including six as Presiding Judge. Judge Rasmussen also previously served as a Democratic state senator representing rural Lane and Douglas counties.

“I have mediated hundreds of cases stemming from the Labor Day 2020 fires,” said Judge Rasmussen. “I can confidently say that in every case involving PacifiCorp, PacifiCorp has taken a respectful and collaborative approach to working with plaintiff’s counsel to resolve claims for negatively impacted individuals. This has resulted in efficient resolution that provides impacted individuals with reasonable and timely settlements and afforded these folks the opportunity to move on with their lives.”​

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For more than a century, PacifiCorp has provided safe, affordable and reliable power and has served as a key driver of economic growth throughout Oregon. The company has an industry-leading wildfire mitigation program built upon significant investments in system strengthening, situational awareness informed by advanced risk forecasting and modeling, and protective operational practices. ​

​

The growing threat of wildfires affects everyone and is larger than any single company, industry or government. It is critical that wildfire-related issues be solved holistically, with businesses, governments and key stakeholders working together to design and implement constructive, enduring solutions.  ​

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving more than 2 million customers. The company operates as Rocky Mountain Power in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming and as Pacific Power in California, Oregon and Washington. PacifiCorp provides safe and reliable service through a vast, integrated system of generation and transmission that connects communities with the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com. 

PORTLAND, Ore. – A century-old-plus suspension bridge that links visitors to the rugged beauty of Washington’s Yakima River Canyon has earned international recognition. The Umtanum Suspension Bridge Rehabilitation Project, led by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with design and engineering support from HDR, was recently named the winner in the New Life category of the 2025 Footbridge Awards in Chur, Switzerland.

Organized and sponsored by Bridge Design & Engineering Magazine, this year’s awards were among the most competitive in the program’s history, with a record number of entries worldwide. For the BLM, the honor underscores the importance of preserving historic features while showing how innovative and creative partnerships can deliver safe, sustainable recreation opportunities.

“Public lands belong to everyone, and access is key to connecting people with these landscapes,” said Stephen Small, Spokane BLM District Manager. “The Umtanum Bridge safeguards a piece of history while ensuring that more than 100,000 annual visitors can safely hike, fish, and explore this special area. Receiving this award is a proud moment for the BLM and a reflection of what’s possible through collaboration with skilled partners like HDR.”

 A bridge between people and place

Spanning Washington’s only Blue-Ribbon trout stream, the 220-foot (67-meter) clear-span suspension bridge has long been both a landmark and a lifeline. Built around 1925, it once carried vehicles across the Yakima River and Northern Pacific railroad tracks to reach homesteads in Umtanum Creek Canyon – many tied to the railroad that still parallels the river. At one time, the bridge even carried Model Ts.

Though several similar suspension bridges once crossed the canyon, Umtanum is the only one that remains. Converted to foot traffic in the mid-1980s, it now connects the BLM’s Umtanum Recreation Area to canyon trails, public lands, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wenas Wildlife Area. It is also the only access point to the west side of the Yakima River along the entire 27-mile canyon, linking visitors to routes like the 8-mile Umtanum Creek Trail and the Skyline Trail from Ellensburg to Selah.

With more than 100,000 annual visitors, Umtanum is one of the BLM’s busiest recreation sites in Washington. In 2024, the agency expanded the site by acquiring 650 acres of private land, adding riparian and upland habitat as well as more space for public enjoyment.

Innovation meets stewardship

By the 2010s, years of wear and storm damage had left the bridge in poor condition. To restore its role as a safe and welcoming landmark, the BLM partnered with HDR on a rehabilitation plan that honored the bridge’s character, protected the river below, and strengthened the crossing for long-term use.

With no original design plans available, HDR engineers relied on rope-and-ladder inspections, detailed surveys, and advanced modeling to assess performance. Their design replaced deteriorated parts with durable, low-impact materials while retaining as much of the historic structure as possible.

BLM employees Thane Syverson, then Spokane District Engineer (now Idaho State Engineer), and Diane Priebe, then Wenatchee Field Office Recreation Planner (now retired), guided the project from planning through rehabilitation. Their leadership ensured the work respected the site’s historic and environmental values while addressing safety and durability.

Construction, completed in July 2021, overcame pandemic-era supply chain disruptions through resourceful substitutions, all while staying on schedule and within the $800,000 budget. The result is a sturdier deck, improved railing, and a bridge ready to serve the community for generations – all delivered with minimal environmental disturbance.

“This was an excellent opportunity to leverage our expertise and leverage innovative tools to identify creative and sustainable approaches that would breathe new life into a historic bridge in a beautiful setting,” said Michael Roberts, HDR project engineer. “The BLM challenged us to identify and develop a solution that was reliable, environmentally responsible, and faithful to the bridge’s heritage. We’re incredibly excited to see the project be recognized on the world stage like this and are honored to share this project’s success with the Team and the BLM.”

 A model for the future

The Footbridge 2025 Award’s jury, consisting of an internationally esteemed panel of bridge engineers, architects, and those passionate for bridges, praised the project for preserving the bridge’s character while revitalizing it for modern use. All in all, a successful example/case study offering inspiration for other projects and assets to strive for.

For the BLM, the recognition affirms its mission to protect cultural resources, provide access to outdoor recreation, and manage America’s shared landscapes for long-term benefit.

“Bridges like Umtanum connect people to history, nature, and each other,” said Small. “This recognition highlights the care we put into stewarding these places and the importance of preserving them so future generations can enjoy the same experiences.”

Now stronger than ever, the Umtanum Suspension Bridge remains one of Kittitas County’s most recognizable landmarks, ready to serve the next century of hikers, anglers, and families who come to discover the beauty of the Yakima River Canyon.

-BLM-

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

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) warns investors to stay alert for financial frauds and imposters dishing out scams this holiday season.

As Thanksgiving approaches, DFR reminds investors to be alert for scammers that are setting the table for financial fraud. Don’t let a con artist carve into your savings this holiday season.

According to the North American Securities Administrators Association’s (NASAA) 2025 enforcement report, scams involving digital assets, social media, and impersonation remain among the top threats this year. Artificial intelligence (AI) has made it easier for criminals to cook up convincing deceptions. Fraudsters can clone voices, generate fake videos, and impersonate trusted people or institutions, all to mislead victims into sharing personal information, transferring funds, or granting access to accounts or devices. These scams are increasingly sophisticated and can be financially devastating for victims and their loved ones.

“Scammers are serving up more convincing schemes than ever before,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Before you hand over your hard-earned money, take a moment to verify who you’re dealing with. A quick check can keep your savings off the fraudster’s menu.”

DFR encourages investors to follow these steps to help keep their finances safe.

• Check the ingredients: Always verify that any investment professional or firm is properly registered in Oregon.
• Don’t bite too fast: Be cautious with unsolicited investment offers, especially those shared through social media, texts, or messaging apps.
• Avoid the pressure cooker: If someone’s pushing you to “act now,” that’s a red flag. Real opportunities don’t come with an expiration timer. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Pass along the warning: If you suspect a scam or have been the victim of a financial fraud, report it to law enforcement or your state securities regulator.

You can learn more about investment frauds and how to protect yourself by visiting DFR’s website on avoiding investment fraud and NASAA’s investor education resources center.

If anyone feels they have been a victim of fraud can contact one of our consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.financialserviceshelp.dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

Salem – The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services’ (DCBS) Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) will be hosting a public hearing on prescription drug prices on Thursday, Dec. 4, at 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.

The public is invited to participate and here are some ways you can:

Let your voice be heard: DFR is asking for the public’s help before the 2025 public hearing. The division has set up a brief survey for consumers to share their stories about rising prescription drug prices. Drug prices play a major role in health care decisions of Oregonians, and the cost of prescription drugs have steadily increased. The division wants to hear your stories about the costs of prescription drugs and how it has affected you and your family. The previous testimonials are available on our website.

Attend the hearing via Zoom: There will be opportunities for public comment, and Oregon legislators will serve as moderators for panel presentations. The legislators include Sen. Deb Patterson, Sen. Diane Linthicum, Rep. Emerson Levy, and Rep. Rob Nosse. We encourage you to testify at the hearing or provide written testimony. For more information about the hearing, email x.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov">rx.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov.

DFR has invited speakers to talk about biosimilars and their marketing. A biosimilar is a biologic product that has been found to have no clinically meaningful differences from its comparable brand-name medication by the FDA. Those speakers include:

• Benjamin N. Rome (Harvard Medical School)
• Alex Keeton (Association for Accessible Medicines)
• Michael Reilly (Alliance for Safe Biologic Medicines)

Invited presenters to speak about challenges and ideas for financing drugs that create issues for traditional insurance financing models include:

• Daniel Ollendorf (Institute for Clinical and Economic Review – ICER)
• Deborah “Dee” Weston (Oregon Health Authority)
• Sharon Lamberton (PhRMA)

You can learn more about the agenda on our website. There will be opportunities for public comment. Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen will facilitate the hearing.

The Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act (ORS 646A.689) directed the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services to establish a transparency program to accept reports and disclose certain information from prescription drug manufacturers, health insurance carriers, and consumers on drug prices.

The goal of the program is to provide accountability for prescription drug pricing through the notice and disclosure of specific drug costs and price information from pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurers, and consumers.
 

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

Tillamook State Forest—An unusually large illegal dump site in the Tillamook State Forest has been cleaned up thanks to the work of adults in custody (AICs) from South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC).

“It was a big mess and a risk to the public and the environment,” said Zach Rabe, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Tillamook District Operations Coordinator. “The South Fork crew hauled off 12 dump trailers full of garbage.”

When the SFFC crews work on illegal dump site cleanups it’s typically a one- or two-day task.

“This one site took us a week,” said Chad Powell, Institution Work Programs Coordinator at SFFC. “It looked like someone took the entire contents of their house and put it in the woods. Even though this is dirty and kind of gross work, the AICs took pride in working fast and loading the trailer efficiently to make as few trips as possible.”

While AICs wear basic protective equipment when handling materials, it is important to ensure that more dangerous substances are not present. Before the crew could begin the cleanup, law enforcement swept the camp for hazardous materials.

“Safety is a top concern when we remove any illegal dump site—we just don’t know what is in these sites,” said Rabe. “If any hazardous materials are found, then we must hire HAZMAT contractors who wear full personal protective equipment. Those types of cleanups are very expensive.”

None was found at this site on Fox Ridge Road off State Highway 6, so SFFC crews could do the work. Even so, Rabe estimated it would end up costing $8,000 to remove all the junk.

Illegal dumping in Oregon’s State Forests is a growing and expensive problem. 

“We are not sure why, but since 2021 we have seen a lot more illegal dumping,” said Rabe.  “For example, we would typically find just one or two abandoned vehicles in our district each year. Now we are seeing around 10 a year.”

Those cars and large RVs are expensive and difficult to remove.

“Some are burned out, and most are in remote areas, so it is hard to find towing companies willing to do the work,” said Rabe. “When they are able to be accessed for removal, getting them out of the forest costs around $3,700 for an RV and about $550 for a car.”

Although ODF workers find some dump sites and abandoned vehicles, many are reported by concerned citizens.

“If you see a dump site or abandoned vehicle, take a photo and note the location and contact us,” said Rabe. 

The dumping problem has grown so much and is so difficult to track that ODF just went live with a new mapping system to keep better track of garbage, vehicles and vandalism.

“We just started using the new Vandalism Activity Tracking System last week,” said Rabe.  “It is a field map-based system that allows us to plot points and mark whether it is a garbage, vehicle or vandalism act that we need to take some action to remediate.”

With the new tool and better tracking, the Tillamook district and other ODF districts should be able to budget better for cleanup costs.

“This should allow us to better understand this growing problem and hopefully find more funding, whether through our budget or by applying for grants, to fix these problems.”

Back at South Fork Forest Camp, which is jointly owned and operated by the Oregon Departments of Corrections and Forestry, the AICs do much more for state forests than just cleanups.

“Nearly all of our 120 or so AICs are trained in wildfire suppression—and are assigned to  10-person crews to fight wildfires, we have workshops that supply all the wooden signs for state forests, they are a key part of the recreation program helping to maintain trails and doing building projects at campgrounds, there is a fish hatchery on site and much more,” said Powell.

Not only does SFFC provide cost effective, skilled AICs for state forests, but it gives the AICs a great opportunity to improve their job skills.

“One of our main objectives is to help reduce recidivism by modeling pro social behavior and teach work skills that help adults in custody be productive citizens upon release,” said Powell. “We are doing that here every day and setting these men up for a chance at a successful future.”

Go here for more information about SFFC.

To report vandalism, garbage or an abandoned vehicle in ODF’s Tillamook District call (503) 842-2545.  

To find other ODF district contact info go here.

Go here for more on State Forests.

Clatsop State Forest—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) completed a stream enhancement project on Rock Creek in the Clatsop State Forest this summer to improve stream habitat and water quality.

“The goal of this project was to restore natural stream processes and instream complexity by placing large wood into the stream channel to improve spawning and rearing habitat, fish production, and water quality,” said Erik Moberly, Aquatic and Riparian Specialist for ODF’s State Forest Division. “The trees, some with root wads attached, that were placed will help influence the formation of pools, spawning gravels, and provide cover for aquatic species.”

Rock Creek is a tributary to the Nehalem River in Clatsop County and is home to several anadromous fish species—fish that live in saltwater but migrate to fresh water to spawn—including Endangered Species Act-listed Coho salmon, fall Chinook, winter steelhead and Pacific lamprey. Cutthroat trout and other native fish species are also found in Rock Creek.

Trees for the project were selected from an adjacent timber sale based on size and stream characteristics and staged near the placement sites. An excavator operated by Bighorn Logging out of Banks, Oregon, was used to move the trees into the stream.  The placements were originally planned to be implemented with a cable yarder, but Stimson Lumber agreed to provide access to their road network resulting in more precise placement of the logs.

A total of 30 trees were used across five sites, resulting in enhancements to approximately 1,000 feet of stream. Project costs were around $5,000, excluding the staff time to plan and implement the project.

“Mike Morton, a road specialist from the Forest Grove District, administered the contract from a nearby timber sale where the trees originated from and assisted with the project to help keep costs down,” said Moberly.  “With the trees already being felled and operators on-site it’s a commonsense approach.  We also partner with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, private landowners and operators, and in many cases non-profit groups like local watershed councils.”

The goal is to enhance Oregon’s state forests for all its residents.

“State Forest lands are actively managed under forest management plans to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians,” said Moberly. “Projects like these positively impact all three of those goals.”

 For more on Oregon’s State Forests see the ODF website.

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26, 2025, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. This is the first meeting of the new EFCC since the passage of HB 3940 in the 2025 Legislative Session that resulted in changes to committee membership, fiduciary responsibilities and purpose. The new law shifts the committee's focus from large fire costs to preparedness (district and association fiscal budgets) but retains strategic investment authority. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Selection of committee chair
• Fire season report
• Discussion of EFCC’s new role in the statewide protection system under House Bill (HB) 3940
• Decisions on policy and Oregon Administrative Rule changes resulting from HB 3940
• 2026 meeting schedule
• Administrator report

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-881-8292 or by email at na.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov">lorna.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of providing funds for fiscal year budgets of forest protection districts, investments in supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that enhance fire protection in the state and issuing loans to the Oregon Department of Forestry or forest protection associations that relate to wildfire costs. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Need to know

• In October, approximately 220 households reported to ODHS that nearly $86,000 worth of SNAP food and TANF cash benefits had been stolen from their EBT cards.
• Take action today to keep your EBT card safe from electronic theft by locking your cards when not in use, blocking out of state and online purchases, and changing your PIN regularly.
• Only use the official ebtEDGE website and mobile app for Apple or Android. ODHS does not guarantee the safety of any other EBT management apps or websites.
• Link to video

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services is encouraging people in Oregon to take action today to protect the SNAP food and TANF cash benefits on their EBT cards from electronic theft like card skimming, card cloning, phishing and other similar methods.

Most theft occurs in the beginning of the month immediately after SNAP and TANF benefits are issued to EBT cards. Criminals use methods like skimming devices, internet scams and fake websites to steal card numbers and personal identification numbers (PIN). Once they have this information, they use online or out-of-state purchases to drain SNAP food and TANF cash benefits from a person’s card.

In October, approximately 220 households reported to ODHS that nearly $86,000 worth of SNAP food and TANF cash benefits had been stolen from their EBT cards. Criminals were blocked from stealing EBT benefits 104 times because people took action to protect their EBT cards.

“People and families in Oregon rely on their SNAP food and TANF cash benefits to help them meet their basic needs,” said Director Liesl Wendt. “Taking simple steps like changing your PIN, locking your cards and blocking online and out-of-state purchases works and keeps your benefits safe. We encourage everyone to do this today.”

ODHS recommends that everyone with an EBT card take these steps to keep their benefits safe:

• Only use the official ebtEDGE website and mobile app for Apple or Android. ODHS does not guarantee the safety of any other EBT management apps or websites.
   
• Freeze your card between uses: When you’re not using your EBT card, consider freezing it as an extra layer of protection. Simply unfreeze it when you’re ready to make a purchase. To do this, visit the ebtEDGE website or use the mobile app and look for "Freeze Card" under "Account Services."
   
• Block out-of-state and online purchases: You have the option to block transactions made outside of Oregon and online purchases to safeguard your card from unauthorized use. To do this, visit the ebtEDGE website or use the mobile app and look for “Protect My Account" under “Account Services." You can remove the blocks later.
   
• Change your PIN regularly: Get into the habit of updating your PIN often. This can help protect your account if someone does gain access to your card number. Here are the ways you can ​change your PIN number:​
  • Call 888-997-4447;
  • Log into the ebtEDGE website.
     
• Take your EBT card to the closest ODHS benefits office​.
   
• Keep your PIN secret: Never share your PIN or write it on your card. Cover the keypad whenever entering your PIN in a public setting. Thieves may use small cameras to capture your PIN entry.
   
• Inspect card readers carefully: Before swiping your card at an ATM or other card reader, check for anything unusual. Skimming devices are often placed on top of existing card readers. If you see anything that looks out of place or tampered with, avoid using it and let the business know.
   
• Monitor your EBT account activity: Make it a habit to check your account regularly for any unusual charges. If you see a charge you didn’t make, report it immediately, cancel your card and request a replacement. Here are the ways you can ​get a new card:​
  • Call the EBT Replacement Line at 1-855-328-6715;
  • Go to an ODHS benefits office​.

• Don’t respond to suspicious texts: If you receive a text message asking for your EBT card number or PIN, ignore it. ODHS will never ask for your information this way.

• Avoid social media scams: Only trust posts and messages about your benefits from official ODHS accounts. ODHS will never ask for your benefits case number, PIN or other card information on social media.
   
• More information is available on the Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits webpage. There is a brochure, flyer and wallet card available in many languages. There are also short videos about using an EBT card, how to replace an EBT card and all the ways to protect your EBT benefits. These are posted in the How-to Videos section of benefits.oregon.gov.

October reports of EBT benefit theft to ODHS

• Number of Oregon households affected: 223
• Number of failed theft attempts because people took steps to protect their EBT cards: 104
• Number of thefts by program: 49 TANF, 559 SNAP
• Dollar amounts of stolen benefits:
  • Total: $85,902
  • TANF (CASH): $17,108
  • SNAP (FOOD): $ 68,794

NOTE: This data represents only what has been reported to the Oregon Department of Human Services and likely undercounts actual instances of EBT theft experienced by people in Oregon.

How to request replacement for TANF benefits

ODHS can replace Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits that are lost due to fraud. TANF families who believe benefits have been stole from their EBT card should contact ODHS to request replacement benefits within 30 days of the benefits being stolen. Information on card safety and how to request replacement TANF benefits can be found online here: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/benefits/Pages/protect.aspx

ODHS cannot replace SNAP benefits

The federal funding to replace benefits ran out on Dec. 21, 2024, and ODHS is no longer authorized to replace stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

About SNAP in Oregon

SNAP is entirely federally funded and helps more than 1 in 6 people in Oregon — about 18 percent of households — buy groceries. This includes children, working families, older adults and people with disabilities.

Every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity, driving an estimated $1.6 billion into Oregon’s economy each year.

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Milton-Freewater, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Milton-Freewater office plans to move into a new location Monday, December 8. The office will move from its current location at 309 N. Columbia Street to 151 Sykes Boulevard, Suite A.

The new office will include Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP), Oregon Eligibility Partnership, Child Welfare (CW), Aging and People with Disabilities and Vocational Rehabilitation programs. Also, several community partners will be in the new office on select days, including: Oregon Employment Department, Training Employment Consortium and Domestic Violence Services. The office will be open weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The 18 staff members will move in throughout the weekend through Monday morning.

“It will be such a meaningful change, and we’re truly excited about the new office,” Dianna Ilaoa, SSP District Manager, said. “This isn’t just a new building — it’s a space created with care for our staff, our clients and the community we serve. We hope everyone who walks through the doors feels supported, welcomed and valued.” Lidwinner Machado is the CW District Manager.

The new office has an indoor and an outdoor play area for children. The space is designed to be trauma-informed, with calming colors, quite spaces, white noise for privacy in conversations and modern, comfortable furniture for client visits. There will be increased bus service for several weeks in the area for greater convenience to people coming to the new office. ODHS will be leasing half of the 151 Sykes Boulevard building. They had been in their former building for more than 30 years.

                                                               # # #

About ODHS

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 19, 2025
 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Employment Reports Delayed Again After Federal Government Shutdown

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed production of the monthly employment reports for the nation on a delayed schedule after the lapse in federal government appropriations that began on Oct. 1, 2025.

The most recent update from the BLS on Wednesday, Nov. 19 says, “BLS will not publish an October 2025 Employment Situation news release. Establishment survey data from the Current Employment Statistics survey for October 2025 will be published with the November 2025 data. Household survey data from the Current Population Survey could not be collected for the October 2025 reference period due to a lapse in appropriations. The household survey data is not able to be retroactively collected. The collection period for November 2025 data will be extended for both surveys, and extra processing time will be added.”

Currently, Oregon’s monthly nonfarm job estimates and unemployment rate are still not available beyond August 2025 and publication dates for the states and metropolitan areas have not been announced.

As of August, preliminary estimates showed Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.0%, and employers added 6,900 jobs to nonfarm payrolls. In the absence of these current, principle monthly indicators, the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division continues tracking trends in the department’s other data sources to assess the labor market. These include job vacancies and unemployment insurance claims.

Oregon’s latest quarterly job vacancy survey results show hiring demand remained generally stable over the past year, but did not increase as much as would typically occur mid-year. Oregon’s private employers have reported between about 50,000 and 54,000 job vacancies at any given time from October 2024 to September 2025.

Claims for unemployment insurance (UI) show a partial picture, as only a portion of all unemployed Oregonians are eligible for these benefits. First-time or initial UI claims in recent weeks appeared to be within the typical range for this time of year. Ongoing or continued claims have followed seasonal trends, but at elevated levels compared with recent years. Oregon has averaged 33,600 continued claims per week so far in 2025, about 5,600 (or 20%) higher than the average during the same timeframe in 2024.

Next Press Releases

The BLS will update its revised news release schedule as new information becomes available. The Oregon Employment Department plans to highlight the latest available local labor market news on QualityInfo.org on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The Research Division’s schedule of future releases will be updated as federal partner agencies issue more guidance.

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November 25, 2025

Media contacts: 

• Erica Heartquist, OHA, phd.communications@oha.oregon.gov
• Stephanie Condon, ADPC, stephanie.condon@oha.oregon.gov
• Bryant Haley, OLCC, ryant.haley@olcc.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">bryant.haley@olcc.oregon.gov
• Mindy McCartt, ODOT, tt@odot.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">mindy.m.mccartt@odot.oregon.gov

Agencies unite to urge Oregonians to ‘Rethink the Drink’ this holiday season

The Rethink the Drink invites open conversation about alcohol, how people can keep Oregon safe this holiday season.

PORTLAND, Ore. -  As Oregonians prepare to celebrate, gather and reconnect with loved ones this holiday season, state agencies renew their call to “Rethink the Drink” - encouraging people to pause, reflect and make mindful and healthy choices when it comes to their alcohol consumption.

Leading this effort is Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon Alcohol & Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) Oregon Liquor & Cannabis Commission (OLCC) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Through statewide community outreach, they hope to shift the holiday drinking culture in Oregon to reduce the pressure to drink alcohol during family gatherings or holiday parties.

This year, Rethink the Drink is encouraging people to come together to help one another be healthy and care for their communities. That includes creating healthy environments that support people in their efforts to drink less.

“During celebrations, it’s easy to drink more than we intend to,” says Dr. Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer at OHA. “We can support each other by having honest, compassionate conversations about our drinking - not judging, but looking out for one another.”

Holiday events and binge drinking sometimes go hand in hand. That can contribute to unsafe driving and other dangerous behavior. Binge drinking impairs judgement, slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of making fatal decisions.

“We see the consequences of impaired driving all year, but the risks increase around the holidays,” said Ryan Stone, Impaired Driving Program Analyst at ODOT. “If you plan to drink, plan your ride. A text, a call, or a quick rideshare request can prevent a crash, a DUII, or a tragedy. The people you share the holidays with want you to get home safely.”

More Oregon adults drink excessively than most of us realize, more than 1 in 5. Most people in this group are not affected by alcoholism or an alcohol use disorder. However, by drinking excessively, people increase their odds of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life.

Holiday gatherings often involve social drinking, which can lead to binge and heavy drinking, patterns of drinking associated with injury, impaired driving and long-term health risks. Each year, more than 2,500 Oregonians die from alcohol-related causes including eight types of cancer, liver disease, heart disease, memory and mental health issues, sleep disruptions and more.

What People Can Do to Celebrate Mindfully

To help people enjoy the season with their health in mind, the “Rethink the Drink” campaign offers practical strategies:

1. Healthy Hosting:
   • Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
   • Provide ample food since people drink more when they’re hungry.
   • Avoid asking people why they aren’t drinking or pressuring them to drink more.
2. Pace your drinks:
   • Set a personal drink limit before you arrive.
   • Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic ones.
   • Consider diluting drinks with ice or low-sugar mixers.

3. Count and plan:
   • Decide ahead of time how many drinks feels “safe” for you.
   • Track how many drinks you have; consider using an app.

4. Plan for a safe ride:
   • If you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver, use a rideshare, or take public transportation.
   • Impaired driving isn’t limited to alcohol. If you’re going to use anything that affects how you feel or think, make a transportation plan and line up a sober driver or another safe way home.

5. Talk about it:
   • Encourage open conversations and ask loved ones how they feel about drinking.
   • Avoid pressuring others to drink; support those who choose not to.

Supporting Everyone

Not everyone drinks, and not everyone who drinks wants to drink a lot. It’s important to create holiday environments that feel safe and inclusive for all.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence or misuse, confidential help is available: 1-800-923-4357 (Oregon’s substance use support line).

The Risks of Impaired Driving

Alcohol continues to play a major role in fatal and serious-injury crashes across Oregon, especially during the holiday season. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect decision-making and slow reaction time.

But alcohol isn’t the only concern. Impairment can come from any substance that makes you feel different — including cannabis, prescription medications, or combinations of substances. All can affect your ability to drive safely.

That’s why agencies are encouraging Oregonians to make a transportation plan before they drink or use any impairing substance. Planning ahead protects you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road.

Learn more about impaired driving and Oregon’s safety efforts.  

About Rethink the Drink

Rethink the Drink is a health communications initiative led by the Oregon Health Authority, in partnership with ADPC, OLCC, and ODOT. The campaign invites Oregonians to have mindful conversations about when, how much and why they drink - for themselves, their families and their communities. There are several resources at RethinkTheDrink.com to help people who want to drink less, or to support individuals or their loved ones who might have an alcohol use disorder. You can also find Rethink the Drink on Facebook and Instagram.

Four steps to a happy (and healthy) holiday meal

November 21, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands with Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked to Autism

The West Coast Health Alliance continues to strongly recommend vaccines to protect our children, noting that rigorous research of millions of people in multiple countries over decades provides high quality evidence that vaccines are not linked to autism. The Alliance is deeply concerned about inaccurate claims to the contrary recently posted on the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.  

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multiple contributing genetic and environmental factors. Suggesting it stems from any single cause, such as vaccination, misleads families who deserve accurate guidance. It is not only a disservice to families seeking clarity about vaccines but also potentially harmful to autistic individuals and their families.

Vaccines are thoroughly tested and remain one of the most import ant tools for preventing infectious diseases. Public health guidance on immunization must be grounded in credible, evidence-based science to help parents and caregivers who may be receiving conflicting or inaccurate messages about immunization.

The Alliance encourages families to seek information from trusted health care providers and reputable medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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The Oregon State Marine Board’s staff recently installed new signs on the Siletz River to raise awareness of the significant cultural, ecological, and social values that exist for the local community. The “Respect the River” campaign encourages boaters to be mindful of their boat operations and share space with other recreators, especially during periods of heavy use.

Signs are posted at the following boating access sites:
 

• Strome Park
• Jack Morgan Park
• Ojalla Bridge Slide
• Old Mill Park
• Hee Hee Illahee
• Twin Bridges Park Ramp
• Moonshine Park Ramp

The Marine Board traditionally directs staff to work with boaters in local communities by spreading awareness through education campaigns, signage, and marine law enforcement contacts with a period of evaluation before implementing new rules for boat operations.

Last July, the Oregon State Marine Board convened a rule advisory committee (RAC) in response to a petition submitted in February 2025 by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The petition asks the Marine Board to consider prohibiting all motorboats upstream of Jack Morgan Park to protect the riverbanks from motorboat wake, protect native fish habitat, and improve mixed-use boating safety.

The agency continues to gather data from subject matter experts and will evaluate the education and outreach efforts through the fall and winter fisheries. Marine Board staff will update the board and ask for further direction during its next quarterly meeting, scheduled for January 29, in Salem.

Find more information on the Siletz River rule advisory committee activities: https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Rulemaking-and-Public-Notices.aspx.

-End-

Economic Resilience Improves State's Financial Stability

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

What is Different About this Forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the state of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. The Q4-December economic outlook, while complicated by a lack of government economic statistics resulting from the federal government shutdown, reflects continued economic resilience both nationally and within the state. Recession risks appear to be diminishing, and the forecasts for 2026 has improved modestly.

Revenue Forecast

The revenue forecast for 2025-27 has increased $309.5 million, due largely to recent strength in Corporate Income Tax receipts. Corporate Income Tax exhibits significant quarter-to-quarter volatility, making it one of the more difficult revenue streams to forecast. For all other revenues, mild improvement in the economic landscape and outlook translate into a slight uptick in expected receipts for the biennium. The projected General Fund ending balance has improved, from a deficit of $372.7 million to a deficit of $63.1 million from last quarter.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

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

Links: https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Planning Commission will hold a work session on a draft climate chapter for the county’s comprehensive plan at 5:30pm on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025.

With the passage of HB 1181 during the 2023 Washington State legislative session, Clark County is now required to add a climate change element into its Comprehensive Plan. The new climate chapter will include actions the county can take over the next 20 years to improve community resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit overburdened communities that will be disproportionately affected by the compounding environmental impacts and natural hazards due to climate change. This work will be integrated into the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review project.

The work session is intended as an informational briefing for planning commission on the draft new climate chapter proposed for addition to the comprehensive plan.

The work session is open to the public. However there will be no public comment as part of the event.

The meeting will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor training room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex.

Meeting materials and information on how to attend the meeting will be available on the Planning Commission’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/planning-commission-hearings-and-meeting-notes. A recording of the meeting will also be posted on the webpage for viewing later.

To learn more about the 2025 update and to sign up for project updates, please visit the project website at www.clark.wa.gov/2025update

To learn more about county climate planning, please visit the project website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/climate-change-planning.

The county’s Climate Project is being funded by a state grant. The Washington Department of Commerce climate planning grant is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a vehicle crash near the 26600 block of NE 182nd Ave in Battle Ground on Nov. 12, 2025.

This individual died on 11/12/2025 in Battle Ground, WA.

The name of the decedent: Miguel, Cecille   Age: 55 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple blunt force injuries

Manner of death:  Accident

How the injury occurred: Passenger in vehicle in collision with another vehicle

Place of injury: Roadway

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 Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Media release issue date: 11/24/2025

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council this month appointed Ron Barca and Alicia LeDuc Montgomery to two open seats on the county’s volunteer Planning Commission.

LeDuc Montgomery’s term is six-years and begins Jan. 1, 2026, and ends Dec. 31, 2031. Barca will serve a four-year term that begins Jan. 1, 2026, and ends Dec. 31, 2029.

Barca is a resident of Battle Ground and works as a Lean Practitioner in the building industry at Wolf Industries Inc. in Battle Ground. He previously worked at Boeing and has prior experience serving on the Clark County Planning Commission. Barca was a volunteer participant in the county’s Housing Options Study Action Plan and has participated in land use policy advocacy since 1994.

Amboy resident LeDuc Montgomery is the managing attorney at LeDuc Montgomery LLC. She has experience representing public entities and advising and litigating matters involving government affairs and land use. LeDuc Montgomery earned a bachelor’s degree in arts in business administration from Saint Martin’s University in Lacey, and a master’s degree in public administration from The Evergreen State College in Olympia. She earned a Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon.

The seven-member Clark County Planning Commission serves as an advisory board on matters related to development of land in the unincorporated area.

More information on the Planning Commission including its meetings is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/planning-commission. Commission public hearings are aired on CVTV channel 23/323 and CVTV.org.

Vancouver, Wash. – While residents are preparing for holiday meals, they may not know that food waste is a big problem. Each year, 30-40% of the food supply in the United States is thrown away. Clark County residents alone generate an average of 35,000 tons of edible food waste each year. The EPA estimates that reducing food waste could save a family of four nearly $3,000 annually, about $728 per person. In addition to wasting money, tossing food in the garbage contributes to climate change. As food breaks down in landfills, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Wasting food is one of the biggest contributors to a person’s environmental footprint.

Residents can reduce food waste this holiday season by taking some simple steps as they plan for and clean up after a holiday meal.

• Shopping: Food waste prevention starts with not buying more than is needed or can be eaten before it spoils. To prevent over-buying, recommendations include taking inventory of what is available on hand, using a tool like the “Guest-imator” to know how much is needed for parties of various sizes, making a list, and only purchasing items on the list when at the grocery store.
• Storage: Properly storing groceries can minimize spoilage. Dry goods should be stored in labeled, air-tight containers. Onions and apples should be stored separately from other foods, as they emit a gas that causes other foods to spoil faster. Local and in-season produce tends to last longer before spoiling because it requires less time in transport.
• Leftovers: Waste from leftovers can be reduced by sending guests home with leftovers in reusable containers. Using leftovers creatively can also reduce food waste. Examples include using mashed potatoes to make shepherd’s pie, topping oatmeal with cranberry sauce, and boiling bones to create nutrient-rich broths. To prevent foodborne illness, leftovers should be enjoyed within three to four days or frozen in air-tight containers to be enjoyed later. 
• Composting: Food scraps can be composted instead of tossed in the garbage. Composting returns nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Composting also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In Clark County, composting options for residents without backyard composting systems include:
  • Composting at the curb: Waste Connections customers in the cities of Vancouver and Ridgefield who subscribe to the organics service can dispose of food scraps in their organics carts.
  • Food scrap drop-off: All residents can drop off food waste at a We Compost Community Hub location for composting. The service is free and available at locations throughout Clark County. Find locations on the We Compost Community Hub webpage.

More food waste prevention tips and resources are available on the Clark County Green Neighbors webpage, and a video is available on the county’s YouTube channel.

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

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

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

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

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

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SALEM, OR —  On November 12, 2025, Marion County celebrated the launch of its annual Project Joy Toy Drive, a partnership that uplifts foster, adoptive, guardianship, and relative care families by reducing financial burdens and reminding children that they are loved. The presentation highlighted the practical support and profound impact Project Joy delivers to local youth.

“Last year, our employees supported 30 families and nearly 180 children, purchasing over 300 gifts ranging from toys and clothes to diapers and hygiene products, said Kathy Bolen, a Workforce Development Coordinator with the county. “Together, we raised more than $8,000 to brighten the holidays for Marion County kids.”

The most moving testimony came from Riley Warren, a high school senior and former foster youth now serving as the voice for teens on Project Joy’s board.

“When I was placed into foster care, I arrived with nothing,” said Warren. “Project Joy gave me a backpack filled with clothes, pajamas, and a pink teddy bear. That bear gave me my first safe place. It wasn’t just stuff—it was a powerful message that I mattered, that I was seen, and that I deserved comfort. Project Joy doesn’t just give material items, they restore childhoods and plant seeds of hope.”

Watch the presentation and Riley share her story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POhirpklCkM&t=1s. 

The room was moved by Warren’s story, and Commissioners Colm Willis and Kevin Cameron voiced their support and appreciation for the project. 

“It’s not necessarily the material things that matter—it’s the hope, and the reminder that you matter,” said Commissioner Cameron. “Hearing Riley’s story shows how this project makes a difference in personal lives and how giving back continues the cycle of hope.”

The commissioners shared their gratitude to employees, partners, and residents whose generosity makes the holidays brighter for children in foster care.

The 2025 Project Joy Toy Drive runs November 17 through December 12. Community members are invited to contribute gifts, diapers, toiletries, or monetary donations. Contributions can be dropped off at Courthouse Square, 555 Court Street NE, Human Resources Office, on the 4th Floor (Suite 4250). Monetary donations should be made out to the Oregon Resource Family Alliance.

“When you support Project Joy, you’re not just donating toys—you’re giving a child hope, dignity, and the chance to finally be a kid,” concluded Warren.

The Battle Ground City Council has approved a 0.1% public safety sales tax, marking a significant investment in the long-term safety, stability, and wellbeing of the community.  This measure will adjust the city’s total sales tax rate to 8.7%, beginning on April 1, 2026.  The additional 0.1% sales tax revenue will be dedicated exclusively to supporting public safety by increasing police staffing. 

Approval Timeline

Under state law via House Bill 2015, cities and counties in Washington may enact 0.1% sales and use tax devoted to public safety-related programs through a councilmanic vote.  The Council unanimously voted to adopt the ordinance during its November 17 public meeting, following a public hearing held on November 3.

The 0.1% public safety sales tax is estimated to generate approximately $667,000 in revenue over a twelve-month period.

Why a Sales Tax? 

A sales tax distributes the costs of public safety across everyone who uses and benefits from local services, including non-residents who shop in and visit Battle Ground.

“After much deliberation and detailed budget review, the Council unanimously voted to adopt the Public Safety Sales Tax,” shared Mayor Troy McCoy.  “Our community has been consistently clear about the importance of maintaining a respectable number of police officers in our city.  This, along with the need to reduce overtime and adjust how the officers’ shifts are set up to better meet service needs spoke volumes in guiding this decision.”

Once the new rate takes effect, consumers will see a 0.1% increase added to their taxable purchases made within the City of Battle Ground.  For example, for every $100 spent, this will include an additional 10 cents.  Essentials such as grocery staples, prescription medications, and other non-taxable goods will not be affected.

Investing in Public Safety

Results from the community survey completed in January 2025 highlighted public safety as one of the community’s top priorities.  This investment reflects those findings and supports the community’s expressed expectations for the City’s continued delivery of high-quality public safety services. 

The revenue generated by the new public safety sales tax will strengthen the city’s ability to ensure reliable and effective public safety services as Battle Ground continues to grow, including the addition of two (2) police officers to the 28 sworn law enforcement officers budgeted in 2025.

The Hillsboro City Council held a special work session on November 24, 2025, to continue discussions on the City's response to federal immigration enforcement by ICE (Immigration & Customs Enforcement) and other federal agencies.  

The work session was for the City Council to develop a plan to respond to ICE impacts in the community. The plan was informed by suggestions from the Council, City staff, community-based organizations, and feedback from the community that was received in public comments over the last few meetings. 

The plan's five main focus areas are: Focusing Internally, Providing Funding Support, Partnering with Community, Calling for State & Federal Action, and Declaring a Local Emergency.

Key Takeaways:

The Council unanimously agreed on a plan that would include the following:

• Advocate strongly for changes at the State and Federal level, including a Statewide emergency declaration

• Increase funding support for community-focused funding

• Develop a grant program for small businesses impacted by ICE

• Make sure community in need has access to utility assistance

• Work with the Hillsboro School District (HSD) to identify ways to support online learning and to support students experiencing housing instability

• Create a community advisory committee

• Build on existing relationships with community-based organizations (CBOs) and community

• Set up ongoing meetings and forums to hear from CBOs and community, to include City administration and Hillsboro Police Department leadership, to hear directly about impacts in our community, develop solutions, and support each other in sharing accurate information, and sharing resources

• Add more information on Knowing Your Rights to the City webpage, including the section on Immigration Resources

• Post signage in City facilities to label which areas are open to the public and which areas are private and off-limits to ICE without a search warrant

• Pause Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) usage until the City can do a more thorough review

• City staff note that ICE may choose not to follow the City's rules. The community should be aware of this and not have a false sense of safety because of City signage

The Council also asked staff to come back with options to evaluate the following: 

• Establishing a dedicated office within the City to assist with immigration and other human rights issues

• Strengthening the City’s Sanctuary status by appropriately codifying certain requirements

• Finding opportunities to assist with rent relief for impacted community members and small businesses

More Takeaways

• All community members should know: Whenever you call the Hillsboro Police Department, you will always get a response. HPD responds to every call.

• City staff are required to document ALL interactions with ICE and other federal immigration enforcement staff. This includes ANY interaction by ANY City employee in ANY City department: Fire & Rescue, Library, Parks & Recreation, Police, Public Works, Water, and more.

• The City is working to create enhanced staff trainings on ICE interactions.

• The City of Hillsboro will look to share its resources with other cities and communities to support their own response to ICE. This includes sharing trainings and policy development for cities that do not have the resources to dedicate to ICE response. 

Calling out the impacts of federal immigration enforcement actions within the Hillsboro community, the Hillsboro City Council has declared a State of Emergency.
 

The Council unanimously adopted the resolution declaring the emergency during its meeting on November 18, 2025, while directing the City to take more actions to address the impacts of immigration enforcement in Hillsboro.

• Read the complete State of Emergency declaration

The Council will convene in a special work session to continue to the discussion on Monday, November 24, at 6:30 pm inside the Hillsboro Civic Center, Room 113 B&C. The special work session will be held in person and online via Zoom, and Wordly translation services will be available.

The Council’s emergency declaration condemns U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers’ reported and alleged conduct infringing on the constitutional rights of members of the Hillsboro community, including:

• arresting and detaining individuals without affording due process rights
• refusing to share information about the reason for an individual’s arrest or the location where an individual will be detained
• routinely wearing masks and refusing to provide identification
• questioning residents and visitors about their immigration status based on their race, ethnicity, language, accent, occupation, or presence at certain locations such as day-labor sites, bus stops, car washes, and parking lots

“The unnecessary and likely unlawful tactics being used by many federal immigration enforcement authorities have generated widespread fear in the community, which cause our residents to be fearful of leaving their homes to go to work, school, access City services, take public transportation, attend medical appointments, and other necessary daily activities, and as a result children are denied access to public education, individuals are prevented from seeking necessary healthcare, local businesses are negatively impacted, and residents are discouraged from working with law enforcement agents to report, solve and prevent minor and serious crime,” the City Council resolution declared.

“No matter when someone has joined our community or where they have come from, every person deserves to be free of fear and intimidation and to be treated with dignity and respect.”

“The City of Hillsboro reaffirms its commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city and to shielding residents to the best of our ability from fear, discrimination, and unjust enforcement practices. In response to expanding federal immigration actions that threaten civil liberties and community trust, this resolution reiterates the City’s commitment to support and comply with Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Laws, and directs that City resources will not be used to enforce federal immigration laws. By adopting this resolution, Hillsboro strengthens its sanctuary measures, upholds its core values, and supports the wellbeing of all residents and visitors, especially immigrant and other vulnerable communities.”

In addition, the Council’s declaration:

• condemns ICE enforcement actions targeting students and families, and calls for an immediate end to such actions
• calls on all elected officials, including members of Congress from Oregon, to publicly denounce these unconstitutional actions, demand immediate oversight and transparency from immigration enforcement agencies, and work to ensure the rights of all individuals — regardless of immigration status — are fully protected under the Constitution
• demands that the Oregon Congressional delegation prioritize a bill at the next congressional session offering comprehensive immigration reform that aligns enforcement with our economic needs, humanitarian values, and community realities
• requests that members of the Legislature and the Governor take action to protect our immigrant and other vulnerable communities from the unlawful and unnecessary actions being taken by federal agents in the name of immigration enforcement, such as imposing a mask ban or imposing identification requirements

Additional Actions

Within the City Council’s emergency declaration resolution, City of Hillsboro employees are directed to:

• continue to identify and clearly label with signage those non-public spaces within City-owned or City-leased buildings that are not accessible to the general public, including offices and other restricted-entry areas.
• continue to coordinate with community partners and other municipalities — including immigrant rights advocates, legal services providers, educational institutions, local business owners, neighborhood leaders, and faith leaders — to develop and maintain programs for communication, outreach, and community support to address the emergency impacts of federal immigration enforcement.
• participate in trainings on City and State sanctuary policies and laws, including:
  • the minimum requirements of state law
  • Know Your Rights
  • The Sanctuary Promise Act and how to report to the violations hotline
  • How to report to appropriate immigrant rights coalitions and other agencies
  • Roleplaying scenarios of different Federal Immigration Authority interactions
  • How to report U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency activity and violations
  • Information on how and where employees can access relevant City resources and additional learning materials
  • Resources for City employees directly affected by federal immigration authority enforcement action
  • Protocols for supervisors on responding if employees are detained, as well as guidance on compassionate leadership and support for employees

The Council’s declaration also requires reports to the Council regarding the implementation of the resolution, to include:

• Employee training completion rates and an evaluation of the City’s training programs
• Known Federal enforcement activity on City property and within facilities
• Known violations of the Sanctuary Promise Act by City employees
• Information on sanctuary-related policies and procedures in similar local jurisdictions
• Review and evaluation of the City’s efforts to implement this resolution that is informed by feedback from employees, equity and language subject matter experts, labor union representatives, immigration rights organizations, faith leaders, community leaders, nonprofits, and educational institutions.

Immigration Resources

For community members, resources for immigration impacts are on the City of Hillsboro website, including:

• Emergency Reporting
• Family Preparedness
• Legal Resources
• Knowing Your Rights
• What Sanctuary City & State designations mean
• Community Support & Resources

The City of Salem has implemented a Local Bidders Policy to support and promote businesses within city limits, and is looking for local bidders to sign up.

The policy requires City departments to seek quotes from at least one local vendor for purchases under $100,000. For purchases under $5,000, local vendors will be prioritized when prices are comparable.

This initiative, which began Nov. 17, is part of a pilot program aimed at strengthening our local economy and ensuring fair access to City procurement opportunities.

The policy will be reviewed in three months to assess its impact and effectiveness.

The City is asking local bidders who wish to be considered for the Local Bidders Pilot to fill out the Local Supplier Interest Form .

You can also reach the City's Procurement Office at contracts@CityofSalem.net
 

Vancouver, Wash. – On Nov. 28, at 3:00 p.m., the City will host a short program to raise the new City flag at City Hall. The celebration continues with the official prize presentation at 3:45 p.m. as part of the annual Rotary tree lighting event. As part of the festivities, Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle will celebrate the return of the Salmon Run Bell Tower’s glockenspiel bells. The glockenspiel consists of 25 cast bronze bells, each weighing between 20 and 400 pounds respectively.
 

Run of Show

Raising the new City flag at City Hall, 415 W. 6^th St.
 

3:00 p.m. -  Mayor, flag designers, and others to gather at the flag poles in front of City Hall

3:05 p.m. – Retire the old City flag 

3:07 p.m. – Flag designers Brooke Nugent and Nathan Hunter raise the new flag
 

Transition to the park across the street
 

Main Stage Recognitions, Esther Short Park Plaza, 605 Esther St.
 

3:45-3:48 p.m. – Mayor takes stage/welcomes community with Visit Vancouver

3:50 p.m. – Present flag designers with prizes, including the Key to the City

3:55 p.m. – Mayor makes remarks about the refurbished tower and glockenspiel 

4:00 p.m. – Bell tower glockenspiel rings on the hour  

4:02 p.m. – Tree Lighting program begins (Rotary Community Tree Lighting)

6:00 p.m. – Santa helps light the tree

Time subject to minor changes inherent with large events

Visit Vancouver's Flag to learn more about the new flag, and visit Salmon Run Bell Tower Restoration to learn more about the restoration of the bell tower.
 

WEST LINN, OR – November 19, 2025 – At a meeting on Tuesday, November 18, the West Linn City Council unanimously adopted the West Linn Waterfront Community Vision Plan. The plan is a roadmap for revitalizing the City’s underutilized 275-acre Willamette River waterfront area into a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable regional destination where residents and visitors can experience the natural beauty of the river and the cultural heritage of West Linn. The plan has been developed through an extensive public outreach process built on decades of community dialogue.  

The adopted plan integrates community priorities and property owner input into a long-term vision for a diverse mix of future land uses, public river access, and environmental stewardship. Through infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships, the vision anticipates celebrating the Indigenous and industrial heritage of the site.

Mayor Rory Bialostosky looks forward to continuing to dream with the community, saying, "This is an historic day for West Linn, and the Waterfront is an area of tremendous opportunity for our City. And I’m really hopeful that by adopting this plan, our City—and really, the region—will have a gathering place with shops, restaurants, parks, tribal space, and other opportunities right near the majestic Willamette Falls, which is the second largest waterfall in the country by volume.” 

Council President Baumgardner was extremely grateful to the many people she's spent years talking about the project with—especially the environmental advocates, local stakeholders, and Indigenous voices whose passion and dedication helped shape the plan. “Without engaged community members, where would we be?” she asked. 

With the adoption of the vision plan, the City will begin work on the next phase: developing updated zoning and development standards and advancing a strategic economic plan for the area. The City will apply for a Metro 2040 grant to help implement these goals, with the next phase projected to launch in 2026. Continued community engagement and opportunities for input will remain a cornerstone of this effort. 

The full West Linn Waterfront Community Vision Plan is available at yourwestlinn.com/waterfront-community-vision. 

Contacts: 
Darren Wyss, Principal Planner 
City of West Linn 

Dwyss@westlinnoregon.gov  

Portland, Ore. – The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) is proud to announce the latest round of awards from the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF). City Administrator Jordan has approved $64.4 million in funding for 60 nonprofit-led projects, advancing Portland's transition to a more sustainable and equitable future.

This year's Community Grants cycle drew 216 proposals, reflecting strong community vision and interest in delivering meaningful climate action across the city. The full 2025 Community Grants Funding Awards report is available on the PCEF website.  

"We are grateful to the Portlanders who shared their ideas and to the organizations leading this work across the city," said PCEF Program Manager Sam Baraso. "Together, these community-led projects demonstrate the power of collective action to advance the City's climate goals while creating lasting benefits for Portland's communities."

Building climate resilience in Portland

Authorized through the 2023 Climate Investment Plan (CIP), PCEF's Community Grants program funds nonprofit organizations working to advance an equitable, community-centered transition to a clean energy future. These investments help Portland advance its climate action goals while strengthening community resilience. City Administrator Jordan approved $64,353,695 in awards and contingency funds, supporting 60 community-led projects. These include 51 implementation grants and nine planning grants.

The approved projects offer PCEF priority communities healthier homes, lower utility bills, job training and living-wage opportunities, better access to fresh food, and stronger community connections. The estimated lifetime reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for projects (not including regenerative agriculture) is estimated to be roughly 76,204 metric tons CO2e.

2025 Community Grants portfolio quick facts

• Energy efficiency and renewable energy – 15 grants
• Transportation decarbonization – 12 grants
• Regenerative agriculture/Green infrastructure – 15 grants
• Workforce and contractor development – 15 grants
• Other community climate initiatives – 3 projects 

Recommended portfolio development: Our process

The application review process included eligibility screening, technical review, financial review, and applicant vetting. From there, applications that passed were assigned to a scoring panel consisting of three to five people drawn from PCEF Committee members, program staff, community members, and subject matter experts. The final recommended portfolio was developed based on application type, ranking of application scores, funding allocations for each program area, and overall proposal strength. Several projects were awarded partial funding based on evaluation of implementation feasibility and eligibility of measures.

The next round of Community Grants will open in 2026.

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

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

About the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund

The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) initiative was passed by 65% of Portland voters in November 2018. It provides a consistent, long-term funding source and oversight structure to ensure that our community's climate action efforts are implemented to support social, economic and environmental benefits for all Portlanders, particularly communities who have been historically under-resourced. The initiative was supported by a broad coalition of groups and individuals and represents the first environmental initiative in Oregon led by communities on the frontlines of climate change.

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from November 16 to November 19, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on November 16, two oocysts in each of the samples collected on November 17 and 18,  and three oocysts in the sample collected on November 19. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on November 11, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

State of Oregon v. Sergio Reyes Aguila

Marion County Man Sentenced in Pedestrian Related Hit and Run

Marion County:  25CR03347 and 25CR35392

Salem, OR – November 21, 2025 – On November 18, 2025, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jodie A. Bureta sentenced Sergio Reyes Aguilar (36), to 13-1/2 years in the Oregon Department of Corrections for Manslaughter in the First Degree, Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle.

On January 16, 2025, Salem Police officers responded to a call pertaining to a hit and run traffic fatality involving a pedestrian. The victim, Brian Coulson (56), was struck by a vehicle and pronounced deceased near where the accident occurred near the intersection of Lancaster Dr. NE and Beverly Ave. NE.

Approximately one hour later, Salem Police located the defendant and his vehicle on Cordon Road. The vehicle had sustained significant front-end damage. A blood trail extending roughly 2,000 feet – from the point of the collision to where the body was located – revealed the path of the incident. The defendant later admitted that he was driving the vehicle and swerved to avoid a pedestrian in the roadway, believing he had struck a traffic cone. In reality, he had struck Coulson. The defendant then drove with Coulson’s body on the hood of his car before the victim rolled off, and the defendant fled the scene.

After being arrested and charged for the crimes, the defendant’s bail was set at $500k. The defendant posted bail and was released from custody. Six months later, in June, 2025, he was arrested again for driving a stolen vehicle where he attempted to flee on foot. He was found in possession of methamphetamine.

“Traffic fatalities are preventable tragedies. This case is a reminder of the consequences of careless decisions,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney, Brendan Murphy. “Our office is committed to addressing traffic violations and protecting every member of this community.”

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys David Wilson and Mae Orawiec, who wish to thank the dedicated officers of the Salem Police Department for their thorough investigation.

In Marion County, traffic related fatalities continue to be a significant concern. Drivers are encouraged to avoid driving impaired or distracted and to stay alert at all times.

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

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

###

Release date: November 21, 2025

Case: 23CR01713

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Shelley Russell today sentenced 43-year-old Raymond Maurice Mosley to 220 months in prison (more than 18 years) and 3 years post prison supervision, for several crimes committed in 2023.

A Multnomah County jury had earlier convicted Mosley on the following charges:

Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Unauthorized use of a Vehicle, two counts of Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Coercion, Menacing, and Strangulation.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Abbie Tornquist prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing she said:

“The court made the right decision today for the victim and for the community. The defendant’s actions in this case were reprehensible and this sentence acknowledges the harm he caused.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Gresham Police Officer Bryan Kamaka for his thorough investigation on the case. 

MCDA would also like to commend our Victim Advocates Nang Dunn, Heath Curry, Barbara Stone, and all of the other advocates who worked on this case, along with MCDA Investigator Anthony Merrill for the compassion and care shown to the victims.

THE FACTS:

In April of 2022, the victim and defendant were living together. The victim agreed to exchange a winning lottery ticket for cash for the defendant in Wilsonville. When the victim returned to Portland, she made a stop at a grocery store and the money was stolen from her. The victim informed the defendant who made threats to her not to return to the shared house. The victim returned to the house and the defendant assaulted her and stole her car keys, wallet, and phone before a roommate drove the victim away from the area. The victim returned to the house a week later to try to pack some belongings and spent the night barricaded in her room. The defendant returned the next day to the house and asked the victim to cook something for him. When the victim agreed to do so, she spotted her missing keys. The victim then hid the keys in her clothing and returned to her room to grab other items. The defendant then confronted the victim and began assaulting her. During the course of the assault, the defendant punched and strangled the victim, threw her to the floor and stepped on her head. As the assault moved into the living room, the defendant shook the victim and heard the keys jingle in her clothing. The defendant then picked up a glass water bong and struck the victim in the chest. The victim then threw the keys across the room and told the defendant to take them. The defendant then stated they were the wrong keys and hit the victim twice more on the head with the water bong which broke multiple times and caused a 14 inch laceration to victim’s scalp. The defendant then stated that he would get a bat to “finish the job” and walk partially away. The defendant then picked up a container of cleaning wipes and threw them at the victim and told her to “clean her blood off the floor.” The defendant then took the victim's car keys and took her car. The victim was left with permanent damage to the nerves in her face and has ongoing numbness and weakness in her face. 

                                                      ###MCDA###

PROLIFIC PORTLAND AREA TAGGER CONVICTED ON 51 COUNTS

Release date: 11/20/25

Case: 23CR16979

Portland, OR- A Portland man who defaced murals in the city with his graffiti tag “BIER”, was found guilty on dozens of counts of criminal mischief on Wednesday November 19, 2025.

Judge Christopher Ramras found Jacob Abel Ramos guilty on five counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree and 46 counts of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree. 

Our office will ask the court to impose a substantial prison sentence pursuant to the repeat offender statute under Oregon law.

The case was prosecuted for the state by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Bijal Patel. After the convictions she said:  

“The defendant caused significant damage to community property and was particularly vindictive toward local artists and businesses. This verdict reflects our commitment to protecting local businesses and public spaces from vandalism. This prosecution was a community effort; we thank the victims for their support and cooperation.”

 The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Officer Nathan Kirby-Glatkowski and Officer Amelia Flohr for their dedication to justice and their hard work on this case.

THE FACTS:

On April 27, 2022,  two graffiti vandals spray painted tags over murals on the front of Platinum Records Lights and Sound at 104 SW 2nd Ave in Portland. An initial investigation identified one of the suspects. A second person was eventually served with a search warrant and evidence found on her phone led to the identification of Jacob Ramos as the second person involved in tagging Platinum Records Lights and Sound.

Ramos used the tag “Bier” which law enforcement was tracking across numerous locations through the city as a recurring graffiti tag. 

Investigators found text messages on the phone which included a discussion that they will continue to tag and encourage graffiti peers to join in the continued tagging. 

On April 11, 2023 officers executed a search warrant on the defendant’s home. 

In the garage investigators found more than 60 partially used cans of spray paint, dozens of spray canister caps and a glass framed photograph hanging on the wall showing an abandoned building vandalized with the tag “Bier” on the front.

Officers also found numerous gun related materials and firearms and a 3D printer which appeared to be paused as it was making a gun part.

Ramos is a felon and could not legally own firearms. He was separately tried and convicted on those charges, our release on that case is attached.

Here is our earlier release on the gun charges conviction:

GRAFFITI TAGGER “BIER” CONVICTED ON GUN CHARGES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 26, 2025

Case# 23CR16979

GRAFFITI TAGGER “BIER” CONVICTED ON GUN CHARGES

Portland, OR – On June 25, 2025, Multnomah County Judge Chanpone Sinlapasai convicted Jacob Abel Ramos, 45, of the following:

5 Counts of Unlawfully Manufacturing, Importing or Transferring a Firearm

6 Counts of Attempted Manufacturing, Importing or Transferring a Firearm

10 Counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm

1 Count of Unlawful Possession of a Short-Barreled Rifle

In 2022 the Portland Police Bureau Central Precinct NRT investigated a prolific graffiti artist with the tag name of BIER. While executing a search warrant at Jacob Ramos’ residence, as part of this investigation, officers found ten total firearms – five of which were serialized and five appeared to be homemade. Of those firearms, one was largely 3D printed and one was later determined to be a homemade short-barreled AR-15 style rifle. Evidence at Ramos’ residence revealed a gun manufacturing workshop consisting of a 3D printer, specialized jigs, drills, raw components and scrap materials that were used to print and mill several of the functioning, non-serialized, polymer and metal firearms. During their search officers found body armor, a large quantity of ammunition, and many magazines and other firearm accessories. Other evidence relating to the still open graffiti allegations was also seized as part of this search warrant.

DDA Andrew MacMillan prosecuted this case for the state. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Officers Nathan Kirby-Glatkowski and Amelia Flohr for their meticulous investigation of this case as well as DA Investigator Colby Panter for his diligent work and firearm knowledge.

DALLAS (OR) – Micah James Wilson, 22, has been sentenced to serve 72 months (6 years) in prison for the armed robbery of the Umpqua Bank branch in Independence.  

Wilson, who is currently serving a 135-month prison sentence for robbery and other related crimes, was sentenced today by Polk County Circuit Judge Timothy Park, after pleading guilty to the sole count of Robbery in the Second Degree arising from the 2023 incident in which he threatened the bank’s employees and ultimately got away with $2,636 in cash. Judge Park ordered that Wilson’s sentence be served consecutively to his prison sentence and that he serves 3 years of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

The case was investigated by detectives and officers of the Independence, Salem, and Lincoln City Police Departments. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

EUGENE, Ore.—A Springfield, Oregon, man appeared before a U.S. District Court Judge today and pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime for assaulting a victim on the basis of their sexual orientation.

Daniel Andrew McGee, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of a Hate Crime Act Involving an Attempt to Kill.

According to court documents, on the evening of July 5, 2021, McGee met the victim at the victim’s apartment after communicating on the dating application Grindr, an application designed for, and primarily used by, gay men. McGee assaulted the victim over the course of several minutes, striking the victim on the head with a wooden tire thumper. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries during the assault, including serious head wounds.

The investigation revealed McGee had been researching and planning the attack for weeks. For at least one month prior to the attack, McGee searched the internet for homophobic and graphically violent anti-gay material. McGee planned for the attack by purchasing the weapon and other materials from Amazon and searching the internet for suggestions on how to get away with murder.

On November 18, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene, Oregon, returned a one-count indictment charging McGee with a Hate Crime Act Involving an Attempt to Kill.

McGee faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on March 3, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, McGee has agreed to pay restitution in full to his victim.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. Joseph Huynh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Tenette Smith, Trial Attorney for the Civil Rights Division Criminal Section, are prosecuting the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— Scott E. Bradford has taken the oath of office to remain as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of Oregon.

Senior U.S. District Judge Michael W. Mosman administered the oath of office before staff, court personnel, and family. The moment was especially meaningful because Judge Mosman previously served as U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, and Bradford also clerked for him.

“Being chosen to lead the District of Oregon is a privilege I do not take lightly. I am deeply humbled by the district court’s vote of confidence in me, and I am committed to serving our community alongside remarkable colleagues and agency partners, who dedicate themselves to the mission every day,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “My focus remains on the Department’s priorities: keeping our country safe, upholding the rule of law, and protecting civil rights.”

Attorney General Pamela Bondi previously appointed Bradford as U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon on July 28, 2025.

Bradford has been a federal prosecutor for more than 18 years and has handled all manner of criminal cases, including violent crime, narcotics trafficking, child exploitation, fraud, cyber, and national security.

Bradford joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon in 2009 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and served in a variety of leadership roles within the office, including Chief of the White Collar Unit, Chief of the Economic, National Security, and Cyber Crimes Unit, and Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division.

In 2022, Bradford served as the U.S. Department of Justice’s Regional Cybercrime Attaché in Southeast Asia where he trained justice sector partners within the region to combat cybercrime. Before becoming the U.S. Attorney, Bradford was the Acting Chief of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section in the National Security Division in Washington, D.C.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, woman made her initial appearance today after allegedly assaulting an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in Tigard, Oregon.

Summer Shepherd, 37, has been charged by criminal complaint with Assaulting a Federal Officer.

According to court documents, on November 23, 2025, ICE officers were in Tigard executing an arrest of an individual. Shepherd drove up to where the officers were making the arrest and pushed an officer in the chest, causing the officer to stumble back. The officer walked back to his vehicle and closed the door. Shepherd proceeded to strike the vehicle with her hands, denting the car. Shepherd yanked the door open and when the officer put his hand out to prevent Shepherd from coming inside, she slammed the door hitting the officer’s left arm. With the help of additional officers, Shepherd was apprehended.

Shepherd made her first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.  She was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man made his initial appearance today after allegedly making violent threats at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in South Portland.

John Paul Cupp, 45, has been charged by criminal complaint with Threats Made Against a Federal Law Enforcement Officer.

“Threats of violence against the brave members of law enforcement and their families will not be tolerated, said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to holding those accountable who threaten and intimidate those who protect our communities, and we will continue to prosecute criminal threats of violence to the fullest extent of the law.”    

“Threats to law enforcement personnel have absolutely no place in our community,” said Acting Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres. “Attempts to intimidate those sworn to protect the American people and uphold our Constitution degrade efforts to keep all of us safe. The FBI will use all investigative means available to us to seek out and arrest anyone using violent rhetoric to express themselves.” 

According to court documents, on October 14, 2025, Cupp began yelling insults at law enforcement officers as they were approaching a crowd. Cupp threatened to kill law enforcement officers and sexually assault their wives.  

On November 3, 2025, Cupp posted a video online reiterating the same threats to federal agents and their wives. On November 13, 2025, Cupp continued posting violent threats online to officers and their family.

Cupp is a prolific producer of online content and regularly posts aggressive rhetoric, calls for war against the United States, antisemitic threats, and threats of violence.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 40 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed near ICE facilities, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Cupp made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

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

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

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon filed a civil forfeiture complaint today against two properties located in Provo, Utah, purchased as part of an alleged multi-layered scheme to defraud the United States and a nonprofit organization.

According to the complaint, from July 2020 through May 2025, Benjamin Young, 39, of Provo, Utah, used his position as Financial Manager for a non-profit organization to gain access to its financial accounts and embezzle funds, including federally backed Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans intended to support payroll and essential operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. He then used the funds as part of his purchase of a $3.5 million commercial office suite in Provo in the name of Square the Books, a separate company he controlled, and leased the property back to the non-profit organization.

To conceal the origin of the funds, Young allegedly fabricated a $2.5 million short-term loan and used the fictitious debt to secure a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan under false pretenses. While Young certified that the proceeds from the SBA loan would repay the short-term loan, the funds used by Young to buy the commercial property actually came from the diverted PPP loan proceeds and other funds Young diverted from his employer. Young is alleged to have laundered the SBA loan proceeds and transferred the funds to his personal bank accounts, using a portion to purchase a second property – a $570,000 condominium in Provo.

Based on the complaint, the United States will seek to forfeit the two properties.

The case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General.  The civil forfeiture action is being handled by Christopher Cardani, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. 

The accusations in the complaint, and the description of the complaint, constitute only allegations that certain property is subject to forfeiture. The United States must prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the property is subject to forfeiture.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland man pleaded guilty today to arson at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Trenten Edward Barker, 34, pleaded guilty to Arson of a Federal Building.

According to court documents, on June 11, 2025, a group of individuals began constructing a barricade of large objects and debris against the vehicle gate of the ICE building to prevent law enforcement officers from exiting through the gate. Barker lit a flare from his backpack and threw it onto the pile of debris. The flare ignited the debris, causing a fire to start.

On October 22, 2025, Barker was charged by information with Arson of a Federal Building.

Barker faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a 250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on March 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Portland Police Bureau. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

# # #

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 18, 2025, Antonio Arredondo Jr., age 39, pleaded guilty to seven charges of Rape in the First Degree, Sodomy in the First Degree, and Sex Abuse in the First Degree stemming from cases in both Oregon and Washington. The defendant stipulated to a 40-year prison sentence and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 16, 2026. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted the Washington County cases before Judge Brandon Thompson.
 

The defendant has been a registered sex offender since 2009, when he was convicted of molesting a child in Texas. He moved to Oregon shortly after his conviction in Texas, where his predatory behavior continued. By 2022, he had developed a pattern that granted him access to children.
 

The defendant would meet single mothers with daughters under the age of 10 years old, via an online dating site. Several of these children had a disability. After initiating a relationship with them, he would begin sexually abusing the children. In some cases, he also became increasingly violent, both physically and sexually, towards the mothers. In one case, he repeatedly urged the mother to allow him to adopt her child and to give him power of attorney over the child, suggesting something would happen to the mother, and the child would need to be cared for. When the mother refused, the defendant would become outraged.
 

In May of 2022, one of the children reported to a school counselor that the defendant sexually abused the child. When the case was presented to a Washington County Grand Jury, the child’s mother disclosed to law enforcement that the defendant had been sexually and physically abusive to her as well.
 

The Tigard Police Department led the initial investigation. During the investigation, it was learned that another mother had reported abuse of her daughter by the defendant to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. After presenting that second case to a Washington County Grand Jury, it was learned there may be other victims in the area.
 

On August 17, 2023, in collaboration with agencies across Oregon, investigators issued a media release to alert the public to the defendant’s actions and to seek additional victims. That information prompted victims in Polk County, Oregon, Clark County, Washington, and another victim, who now lives out of state, to contact law enforcement. This victim reported meeting the defendant before he sexually abused them.
 

After the defendant’s arrest in 2023, a joint effort was undertaken to resolve all of the defendant’s known cases. In late 2024, negotiations fell through. In February of 2025, the defendant was convicted of Sex Abuse in the First Degree in Polk County, Oregon, and began serving a mandatory minimum sentence of 75 months, pursuant to Oregon’s Measure 11 laws. Negotiations were reinitiated, and the defendant accepted the 40-year global offer with Washington County, Multnomah County, and Clark County, Washington.
 

“This resolution brings an end to this defendant’s predatory behavior and delivers long-overdue accountability,” said DDA Meisel. “Most importantly, it spares the victims the agony of reliving their trauma at trial and provides a measure of closure they have fought so bravely to obtain. Their courage in coming forward has been nothing short of extraordinary."
 

During the course of the investigation, detectives spoke with multiple women who reported similar behavior by the defendant, some of whom did not want to participate in the prosecution. Investigators fear there could be additional victims. Anyone with information related to the defendant is urged to call their local law enforcement agency.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends all victims for their bravery in reporting the defendant. This office also acknowledges the work of the Tigard Police Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Portland Police Bureau, the City of Dallas Police, and law enforcement agencies in the State of Washington.
 

Individual case information can be found below.
 

 Cases:

• 23CR37119
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 1: Rape in the First Degree
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 4: Sodomy in the First Degree
• 23CR44427
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 1: Rape in the First Degree – Forcible Compulsion – Domestic Violence
• 23CR39614
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 1: Sex Abuse in the First Degree
• 23CR41056
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 1: Sex Abuse in the First Degree
  • Plead Guilty to Ct. 3: Sex Abuse in the First Degree
• 2024-1-00215-06- Clark County, Washington
  • Defendant to enter guilty plea to Ct. 1: Child Molestation in the First Degree

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 21, 2025, a Washington County jury found Matthew Allan Stehr, age 39, guilty of rape in the first degree, four counts of sodomy in the first degree, seven counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, and luring a minor. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted the defendant before Judge Hafez Daraee.
 

The defendant sexually abused the child victim multiple times over a period of approximately seven years. In 2021, the abuse came to light when the victim told a therapist what was happening. The mandatory reporter alerted the victim’s mother. She confronted the defendant, who never denied the allegations. The victim also provided additional details to medical experts at CARES Northwest.
 

“The jury’s verdict is a testament to the child’s courage in coming forward and speaking up,” said DDA Meisel. “While nothing can undo the harm that was done, we hope this verdict provides a measure of justice and a path towards healing for the victim and their mother.”
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and CARES Northwest on this case.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 18, 2026.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 14, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jeffrey Allen Braukmann, age 54, guilty of rape in the first degree, unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, and sexual abuse in the first degree. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted this case before Judge Hafez Daraee.
 

In August of 2023, the defendant sexually assaulted the child victim, who was visiting family from out of state. He threatened to hurt the child’s family if she reported his actions. After the assault, the defendant said there would be “major consequences” if she ever reported him.
 

In May of 2024, the victim disclosed the abuse. The defendant was then arrested by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting this abuse and acknowledges the investigative work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 7, 2026.

A high-energy holiday concert featuring local Salem talent

Salem, Ore., November 25, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College invites the community to celebrate the holiday season with Christmas Brass featuring the B3 Brass Trio, a vibrant and festive performance taking place at 7 p.m. on December 3 in the Chemeketa Auditorium (Building 6), located at 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE in Salem (Purple Parking Area). Tickets are available now through Eventbrite at go.chemeketa.edu/B3BrassTrio
 

The B3 Brass Trio, featuring Salem musicians Bryce Schmidt (trumpet), Benjamin Garrett (horn), and Bailey Schmidt (trombone), will deliver an evening filled with the power, precision, and joy of brass music. Their program includes original works, classical selections, and popular holiday favorites. Audiences can look forward to dynamic renditions of pieces such as“The Nutcracker Suite,” “Joy to the World,” and other seasonal classics.
 

Chemeketa is committed to bringing the community together through the arts, offering events that showcase local talent and create cultural experiences for all ages. This family-friendly concert continues the college’s tradition of supporting the performing arts and providing accessible enrichment opportunities for the region.
 

“Chemeketa Event Services is proud to host talented local artists like the B3 Brass Trio and bring holiday programming to our community,” said Chemeketa Events Planner Stephen Munshaw. “Events like these remind us of the power of the arts to connect, inspire, and bring joy.”
 

Kick off the holiday season with us for an evening of warmth, wit, festivities, music, and celebration. More information is available at go.chemeketa.edu/B3BrassTrio
####

For more than 50 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 17,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI). 

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

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College’s Music Department invites the community to enjoy an array of live musical performances during its annual winter concert series. With concerts ranging from jazz to vocal to classical ensembles, the series offers something for every musical taste.

Holiday Choir Concert – Nov. 25

Start the season with a festive performance by Clackamas Community College’s vocal ensembles. This free event will be held in the Wacheno Welcome Center on the Oregon City campus at 3:30 p.m. and will feature holiday-themed music. No ticket required. 

Jazz Night – Dec. 2

The winter concert series kicks off with an evening of instrumental jazz performed by the CCC jazz combo and jazz ensemble. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; concert begins at 7 p.m.

Contemporary Music Ensemble – Dec. 3

Join the Contemporary Music Ensemble for an energetic night of pop and rock covers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; music starts at 7 p.m.

Wind Ensemble and Classical Guitar Ensemble – Dec. 4

Experience the sounds of CCC’s wind ensemble and classical guitar ensemble during this instrumental showcase. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; concert begins at 7 p.m.

Vocal Ensemble and AVE – Dec. 5

The series concludes with a vocal concert featuring CCC’s Vocal Ensemble and Advanced Vocal Ensemble (AVE), presenting a selection of holiday-themed music. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; performance begins at 7 p.m.

The concerts are open to the public, with free admission for CCC students. Unless otherwise noted, general admission is $10. Except for the holiday choir concert, performances take place in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

Concerts will also be livestreamed at youtube.com/clackamasmusic.

To reserve seats or learn more, visit clackamasmusic.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit or call 503-594-3337.

-30-

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College is once again making waves in the sustainability world. 

The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) recently named PCC a top performer in its 2025 Campus Sustainability Index for Associate and Short-Cycle Institutions, adding another major milestone in the college’s long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility. This recognition follows PCC’s Gold rating from STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) in March from the most widely recognized framework for publicly reporting sustainability performance in higher education.

“We are thrilled, as this sustainability rockstar-like designation validates our collaborative and holistic approach,” said Briar Wray, PCC’s associate dean of sustainability strategies. “This is a big year for us as we update our Climate Action Plan and continue pushing the envelope for sustainability leadership in higher education.”

In addition to its overall Gold rating, PCC earned special recognition for excellence in "Buildings & Grounds, Procurement and Waste, and Innovation," particularly for its Basic Needs and Sustainability Leadership program. The Campus Sustainability Index is grounded in the STARS system, which assesses progress in five major categories: academics; engagement; operations; planning and administration; and innovation and leadership.

“We’re so pleased to be recognized by AASHE with a STARS Gold rating for our sustainability accomplishments,” said Stephania Fregosi, PCC sustainability analyst. “At PCC, sustainability happens across the institution, and it’s awesome to see how our values are transforming the college.”

PCC’s sustainability efforts span nearly 20 years. The college’s Board of Directors adopted a Sustainability Policy in 2006 and soon after signed the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, setting a course toward climate neutrality.

Since 2012, PCC has used STARS to measure and enhance its progress, earning recognition as a top performer among associate-level institutions nationwide. The 2025 Gold rating represents the college’s strongest performance to date.

With more than 1,200 participants in 52 countries, AASHE’s STARS program is a transparent, open-access platform that promotes shared learning and collaboration across higher education. Ratings—ranging from Bronze to Platinum—reflect how deeply sustainability is woven into an institution’s culture and operations.

Sustainability remains an essential pillar of PCC’s mission, driving initiatives that integrate environmental stewardship into academics, operations, and community engagement. As the college revises its Climate Action Plan, leaders say the work is far from done.

“We’re proud of how far we’ve come,” Wray said. “But sustainability is about continuous improvement. We’re stretching to go even deeper, to make PCC a model for what’s possible.”

For more information, visit pcc.edu/sustainability or pcc.edu/climateaction. 

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

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

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites community members to ring in the holiday season Cougar style. Cougar Cheer and Gift Gear will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Hilton Vancouver Washington, 301 W. Sixth St., Vancouver.

Holiday shopping begins early with the CougarWear pop-up shop, which opens at 10 a.m. and runs through the evening event. Shoppers can browse exclusive WSU merchandise and pick up Cougar-themed gifts before festivities begin. If you are looking for something specific, visit the CougarWear webpage or email acy@anchorbaymtg.com" target="_blank">tracy@anchorbaymtg.com by Nov. 30.

The family- and pet-friendly celebration is free and open to the public. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., guests may enjoy a complimentary photo opportunity with WSU’s mascot, Butch T. Cougar, and capture a festive holiday memory.

Guests may also enter a drawing to win WSU swag or two flight vouchers generously provided by Alaska Airlines.

Attendees are encouraged to support the Cougar Food Pantry by making a cash donation or bringing nonperishable food items. To view the pantry’s current list of most-needed items, visit the Cougar Food Pantry webpage.

If you have questions about the event, contact Maddy Juul at 360-546-9600 or madelyn.juul@wsu.edu.

For accommodation requests, call 360-546-9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

# # #

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites students, families and community members to attend Scholarships 101 Information Night at 6 p.m. Dec. 3, in the Dengerink Administration Building, Room 110.

The free, public event will provide practical strategies and expert guidance to help students find and win scholarships that can reduce the cost of college.

“Scholarships can open doors—helping students fund their education without taking on extra debt,” said Natalie Marquez, campus director of student financial services. “We want to empower students to pursue higher education with less financial stress.”

Attendees will learn:

• Where to find the best scholarship opportunities
• How to write essays that stand out
• What successful scholarship recipients did to win awards

The session is designed to equip students with insider knowledge and actionable tools to make higher education more affordable and achievable.

Advance registration is encouraged. Visit vancouver.wsu.edu/events to register. Complimentary parking will be provided to registered guests.

For disability accommodations, call 360-546-9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu.

For more information about the event, contact Student Financial Services at 360-546-WSUV or van.finaid@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134^th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-TRAN bus service. Find a campus map at vancouver.wsu.edu/map. Download the AMP Park app or go to aimsmobilepay.com to pay for parking.

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

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

# # #

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet in Executive Session on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. This meeting will take place pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2)(d) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to carry on labor negotiations.

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236. 

Authorized parties may join the meeting virtually by clicking the link below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85217661592?pwd=wmGY2_DchsCWJxt8fClGevzZCDMR9g.kCapnhXCmNoqGwnb
Passcode:116283

Or telephone:
1 346 248 7799 or 1 669 900 9128

Webinar ID: 852 1766 1592
Passcode: 116283

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Executive & Business Meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Russell goals report, consent agenda, summer school update, SIA grant agreement 25-27, parentsquare data, OSBA event highlights, board reports, board budget, appreciation planning, board and superintendent evaluations, pd goals, vector training reminder, stipend discussion, volunteer exception & finalize goals. 

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

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

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

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

90% of Regional Freshmen on Track to Graduate, Underserved Students Approach 85%, Both Record Highs

HILLSBORO, OR – The state released a trove of student data on Thursday, including how many freshmen have the requisite credits to graduate on time. The data shows many districts making notable gains and a few lagging behind. 

Across the NWRESD region, which includes 36 high schools in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties, a record 90.3% students are on track to graduate in four years compared to 86.6% for the rest of the state.

In four years, the Beaverton, Clatskanie, Gaston and Knappa school districts have grown consistently. Schools with significant increases over 2023-24 include the Hillsboro, Nestucca Valley, Rainier, St. Helens and Tigard-Tualatin school districts.

In the region, 84.9% of students who are underserved by our school systems -- meaning they haven’t historically gotten the support they need to succeed -- are on track to graduate. This represents an 8 percentage point improvement -- and the highest rate ever -- since the state started reporting aggregate numbers in 2017. 

Why Focus on On-Track Rates?

Northwest Regional Education Service District launched a 9th Grade Success Network about a decade ago after researchers concluded that being on-track was the single most influential factor in a student’s ability to graduate. 29 of the 36 high schools in our region participate.  

Teacher-led teams meet regularly to: 

• Assess data so that students who need more support get it immediately.

• Design change ideas -- essentially small-scale interventions -- that enable them to try different concepts to see what works. When they find a successful intervention, they replicate it on a larger scale. Change ideas are usually meant to improve a school’s culture or instruction. 

• Monitor their progress to see what’s working and what needs to be changed. 

NWRESD educators coach and mentor teams, including training them on how to follow best practices, how to use and evaluate data and how to set goals that will benefit students. They also host network-wide convenings so teams can learn from one another.

“In addition to academic supports, the 9th grade success teams in our schools emphasize the importance of community and connection,” says Hilary Clark-Hassinger, a professional learning coach who co-leads the network. “Much of the work they do is around improving relationships between adults and students and improving peer-to-peer connections.”

In order to kickstart those relationships, the network added a student-led component, where students work with teachers to review student data, listen to their classmates and then develop and test out ideas about how to improve the 9th grade experience. There are now 58 student interns participating -- up from 26 in 2020. 

Recommended Contacts for Interviews and Commentary:

• khassinger@nwresd.k12.or.us" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Hilary Clark-Hassinger, 9th Grade Success Network Professional Learning Co-Lead, Northwest Regional Education Service District

  • Focus areas: data and systems-building, network structure, change work, vision and philosophy of network, historical knowledge of the network
     

• odarte@beaverton.k12.or.us" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Yuliana Rodarte, Assistant Principal, Beaverton School District (Community School at Merlo Station Campus)

  • Focus areas: multilingual learner supports, instruction and student data
     

• Daniela Moreno Gutierrez and eyW@nestucca.k12.or.us" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Carey Wundram, Ninth Grade Co-Team Leads, Nestucca Valley School District

  • Focus areas: student-led work, can connect reporters to past and present student interns
     

• Najwa Sweilem and Zach Jones, On-Track Coordinators and Ninth Grade Success Co-Team Leads, Tigard-Tualatin School District (Tigard High School)

  • Focus areas: student codesign work, leading teacher teams, equity and affinity work

To learn more about the network read:

• 9th Grade Success Network Imagines a High School Experience Where Everyone Feels Connected

• Freshman Year Isn’t What It Used to Be -- That’s a Good Thing.

About Northwest Regional Education Service District

Northwest Regional ESD is Oregon’s largest education service district, serving students, educators, child care providers and families in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties. Our region includes large, suburban school districts in Washington County and smaller, rural districts along the Columbia River, the Coast Range and the North Oregon coast.

Headquartered in Hillsboro, with service centers in St. Helens, Astoria and Tillamook, we support 20 school districts and more than 98,000 students. Our agency partners with schools to deliver cost-effective services in special education, technology, professional development and school improvement, as well as operational support in business services and human resources.

Momentum is soaring for the $3.35 million campaign to transform Molalla High School’s Burghardt Sports Complex. Philanthropists Terry (class of 1968) and Cheryl Holden have pledged a transformational $500,000 gift. The Holden’s are splitting their gift with $250,000 supporting the major capital improvements and $250,000 going to an ongoing maintenance fund, ensuring that the facility remains in use for many generations.

The Molalla River School District embarked on this bold campaign to make critical upgrades to Burghardt Sports Complex to increase usability; reduce ongoing maintenance of grass, which frequently becomes unplayable; and provide modern, safe and durable facilities. The installation of all-weather turf on the main field and the resurfacing of the track will increase the usability for football, soccer, track and community events, such as graduation ceremonies.

Molalla River Schools Superintendent Tony Mann expressed his deep gratitude for the gift. “Molalla River Schools has benefited from the generosity of the Holdens in the past. This major gift sets us on a path to successfully provide improved, year-round facilities that will benefit athletes of all ages and our community.”

Fundraising Goal and Timeline

The Holdens’ gift is part of a larger $3.35 million campaign to modernize the Burghardt Sports Complex and secure its future for generations of Molalla students and families. Thanks to early leadership commitments, including a $1 million lead gift from alumni Dale and Julie Burghardt, the campaign is well underway.

With the Holdens’ donation, the campaign now has just $900,000 left to raise to fully fund the project. If the remaining resources are secured by early next year, construction is slated to begin in summer 2026.

Molalla High School Athletic Director Mike Lord noted the impact on the school's mission. "Molalla athletics is about excellence in character, academics, and athletics. The Holdens joining this effort gives me hope that we will realize the ideal athletic program and the dividends from those investments well into the future, assuring that the facilities reflect excellence.”

A History of Giving

The Holdens are long-term donors with a primary focus on education, health care, and veterans. They have previously invested in scholarships for high-achieving Molalla graduates, the Hobart Locker Room, and supported Career Technical Education programs at Molalla High School.

In 2021, Holdens made a major donation to Clackamas Community College. Their donation provides needed funding for career technical education (CTE) scholarships, facilities and program development. Several Molalla students and graduates have benefited from the scholarship program and facilities at the Holden Industrial Technical Center.

The Holdens’ philanthropy extends beyond Molalla and surrounding areas. The Holdens have supported and made major contributions to OHSU for the benefit of the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital and the Casey Eye Clinic.  They also recently made a major contribution to the Cleveland Clinic and the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.

Terry Holden believes deeply in the value of active giving and supporting worthy public programs. “If and when you have the opportunity to help others, I would encourage you to pay it forward,” he said.

Cheryl Holden is often quoted as saying, “Giving is very rewarding.  What better way to use your money?  When you buy things, you don’t own anything, it owns you.  But when you give from your heart, it can’t be measured. It just feels good.”  Terry Holden added, “In the case of the upgrades to the football field and track at the Burghardt Sports Complex, it feels very good and is an extremely worthwhile project which will benefit the students and residents of Molalla for many years.  We are proud to support and follow the leadership of our good friends Dale and Julie Burghardt.  I invite my fellow alumni and business owners to join the Burghardts and us to quickly raise the remaining funds to realize the opportunity for students to develop their minds, character, and bodies.”

How to Join this Effort

Alumni and community members interested in contributing may contact Mike Lord, Molalla High School Athletic Director, at (503) 503-759-7306 or via email at mike.lord@molallariv.k12.or.us or visit: https://www.molallariverschools.org/o/mhs/page/burghardt-sports-complex for project information.

Longtime Southwest Washington education leader John Deeder has been elected to the Educational Service District (ESD) 112 Board of Directors. Deeder will officially take the oath of office during the board’s meeting on January 27, 2026, alongside other re-elected board members.

Deeder brings more than four decades of experience in public education to his new role. He retired in 2017 after serving 11 years as superintendent of Evergreen Public Schools, the largest school district in Clark County and the fifth largest in the state. Prior to his time at Evergreen, Deeder worked in several Oregon school districts as a teacher, counselor, coach, principal, instructional leader and assistant superintendent.

“John’s depth of leadership experience will be a tremendous asset to the ESD 112 Board,” said ESD 112 Superintendent Tim Merlino. “His long-standing commitment to public education and deep understanding of district-level operations will help us continue delivering critical services that support schools of all sizes across our region.”

Deeder joined Evergreen in 2002 as Director of Curriculum and Instruction and later served as Assistant Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer before being named Superintendent in 2006. During his tenure, he led several key initiatives, including implementing all-day kindergarten, significantly increasing high school graduation rates, developing personalized learning models, and expanding access to technology-driven instruction.

In addition to his focus on academics, Deeder navigated the district through significant financial challenges. He guided Evergreen through a $26.3 million budget reduction during the Great Recession while preserving teacher positions and maintaining school facilities. His leadership included the rapid rebuilding of Crestline Elementary after the school was destroyed by arson in 2013.

Deeder also promoted equity initiatives by removing elementary supply lists and secondary-level fees and supervised the opening of 14 Family and Community Resource Centers to help lower barriers for students and families.

Beyond his work in education, Deeder has served on several community boards, including the Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Washington, Columbia River Mental Health, and the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, among others.

“As a superintendent in a district served by ESD 112 for 11.5 years, I found their support to be invaluable,” said Deeder. “Now, coming full circle as a board member, I look forward to contributing to the ESD’s continued service-first approach.”

Under Washington state law, ESDs are governed by a board of directors consisting of seven citizens elected by school board members from the region’s 30 public school districts. Board members serve four-year terms and represent geographic director districts based on U.S. Census data. The board is responsible for ESD 112 policy and governance, and provides direction to the superintendent, who is advised by local district superintendents.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lake Oswego, OR, November 21, 2025 – Clackamas County Children’s Commission (ClackCoKids) is thrilled to announce the Grand Opening Ceremony for the Mayer Art Early Childhood Center on Wednesday, November 26, at 12:30 PM. The celebration will take place at 3055 S. Furman Dr., Lake Oswego, OR 97034 on the historic Marylhurst Campus.

Join us for a ribbon cutting, campus tour, and light snacks and refreshments as we celebrate this exciting expansion of our Clackamas County locations.

The Marylhurst Campus currently houses our Central Kitchen and Administrative Offices, and we are proud to expand our presence with a new early childhood center featuring five classrooms, two playgrounds, and a dedicated community partner space. This new facility will serve as a hub for collaboration, supporting stronger parenting and reunification efforts and providing a welcoming space for partners to meet and work together.

Quote from Executive Director Darcee Kilsdonk:

"I feel honored by the generosity of the Oregon Legislature and the Office of Head Start for their willingness to help us serve more children and families in our community. I am especially grateful for the support we received from our community partners as well as Senate President Robert Wagner, Representative Daniel Nguyen, Senator Mark Meek, and the Region 10 Office of Head Start. Their assistance enables us to continue our publicly funded services and efforts to eliminate poverty and address the childcare desert in Clackamas County."

Will you join us? RSVP to Gabriela Castillo at gabrielac@clackcokids.org.

About ClackCoKids:

We provide multigenerational, comprehensive early learning and family services for qualifying families with children from pregnancy to age five throughout Clackamas County. Our mission is to support the growth of healthy children and families, positive parenting, and school readiness.

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The nonprofit’s biggest event of the year offers opportunities to support its mission of paving the way toward financial empowerment through education, coaching, and fair lending.

[Oakville, Wash.] — Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund (CTLF) is excited to welcome local and regional partners and attendees to its largest fundraising event, Brick by Brick. The celebratory evening will take place on December 5 at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound and will present a valuable opportunity for individuals and organizations to support CTLF’s mission to empower Native entrepreneurs and community members to achieve life milestones such as buying a car, purchasing a home or launching a small business. CTLF provides coaching, financial education and access to fair lending and capital to a community historically excluded from financial systems and basic wealth-building opportunities.

“This year’s event is vital to helping us raise funds to make Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund’s work possible,” said CTLF Executive Director Tamra De Nova. “Every contribution is a step toward building a stronger community.”

The gala-style event will feature a riveting performance by MTV-award-winning Native hip hop artist and dancer Supaman as well as a live and silent auction, which will feature Native art and creative products as well as international travel packages including a trip to the Kentucky Derby, a six-night African photo safari and a four-night luxury resort vacation in Mexico. The Great Wolf Lodge will offer a prime rib carving station along with savory options of chicken and salmon as elegant buffet items, plus festive cocktails or mocktails to complement the meal.

Contributions, sponsorship, auction participation and tickets to Brick by Brick go toward funding CTLF’s coaching and educational programs such as their Affordable Homeownership Program and new Business Incubator program, which allows clients to take advantage of drop-in counseling and beneficial office space to help launch or manage small businesses.

Attendees may purchase individual tickets for $150 or select from several sponsorship opportunities: a full table for eight for $1,500; or two tables for $5,000 or $8,000 that include additional benefits of company logo inclusions in Brick by Brick marketing and event signage and an introduction at the event. Donations to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit may be tax-deductible.

About Brick by Brick

Brick by Brick is an annual dinner and fundraising auction that benefits the Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund. Organizations and individuals can support the Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund through ticket purchase, table sponsorship, donation of auction items and participation in auction. For more information, and to register for the event, visit ctlf-empowers.org/2025-brick-by-brick.

About the Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund  

The Chehalis Tribal Loan Fund was established in 2007 by the Chehalis Tribe and became a certified Native Community Development Financial Institution in 2015. As nonprofit organization, CTLF is dedicated to paving the way to financial empowerment through education, coaching, and fair lending. CTLF proudly serves Chehalis Tribal members, employees of the Tribe and its entities, other Native Americans, and members of the surrounding community. Services are designed to build financial confidence, provide access to fair lending, and support both personal and business growth. To learn more visit ctlf-empowers.org/about.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Media is invited to attend Merriment at the Monastery

WHAT: A festive community open house featuring holiday treats, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a gingerbread display, kids’ craft activities and games, and a special exhibit of artwork by the Benedictine Sisters and Oblates. Guests are encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations for Mission Benedict’s Holiday Food Drive. This program relies on the generosity of the community. Local schools, churches, and businesses come together and play an essential role in ensuring that families have access to nutritious food in times of need.

WHEN: Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 pm.

WHERE: Queen of Angels Monastery, Agatha Hall, 840 S. Main Street, Mt. Angel, Oregon

WHO: Free family and community event for all. Catholic Community Services, Mission Benedict Food Pantry, Benedictine Sisters and Oblates of Mt. Angel, and community members.

WHY: Celebrate the holiday season through photos and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookies, cocoa, crafts and games,  and a gingerbread house display! Give back to your community by donating nonperishable food during a time of food insecurity for many.

VISUALS:

• Historic Queen of Angels Monastery.

• Over 125-year-old giant sequoia.

• Santa and Mrs. Claus greeting families. Grand arrival at 3:00 pm

• Holiday decorations, cookies, and cocoa.

• Local artwork and gingerbread display.

• Citizens donating food items.

PARKING:  Free parking available onsite

Interviews available from: 

• Joshua K Graves, CEO of Catholic Community Services 

• Heidi Wiegal, Chief Communications Officer, Catholic Community Services 

• Sr. Dorothy Jean Beyer, OSB,  Benedictine Sister of Mt. Angel 

• Susan Black, Oblate and coordinator of the exhibit of artwork from the Benedictine Sisters and Oblates of Mt. Angel.

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 multiple programs across 10 Oregon counties and serves more than 4,500 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.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Council for the Homeless, LULAC, and Latino Leadership NW Partner to Provide Rental Assistance for Families Impacted by ICE

VANCOUVER, Wash. (November 24, 2025) — Council for the Homeless (CFTH) has partnered with the Southwest Washington League of United Latin American Citizens Council 47013 (SWWA LULAC Council 47013) and the Latina Leadership NW (LLNW) to offer rental assistance to households experiencing financial hardship after detention or deportation of a family member by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Through this partnership, CFTH has allocated $50,000 from its budget to support families who have lost income due to the detainment or deportation of a primary wage earner. SWWA LULAC Council 47013 will lead the eligibility process, verifying ICE-related interruptions and connecting families to the rental assistance program, where CFTH will distribute rental payments to help stabilize families at risk of eviction.

“We recognize the sudden loss of a family member due to ICE abductions can be devastating,” said Sunny Wonder, chief operating officer for CFTH. “Our partnership with LULAC and Latino Leadership NW ensures families experiencing this crisis can receive culturally responsive, rapid support to help maintain their housing.”

This limited CFTH funding represents an urgent, short-term response. Additional community support is needed. As ICE raids continue to impact families in Clark County, the need for rental assistance and community-based stabilization far exceeds currently available resources.

“We are grateful to partner with Council for the Homeless and Latino Leadership NW to support families facing these traumatic disruptions,” said Andy Lara, President of SWWA LULAC Council 47013. “Our priority is to protect our community and keep people in their homes, while ensuring that our community members feel seen, supported, and safe.”

“Our families are carrying unimaginable fear and grief in the wake of these ICE kidnappings,” said Diana Avalos-Leos, director of LLNW. “This partnership makes it so no one has to navigate this trauma alone. Together, we are providing stability, dignity, and a lifeline for families who deserve to remain housed and hopeful.”

If the detention or deportation of a family member by ICE has made it difficult for you or someone you know to maintain rent payments, please call or text SWWA LULAC Council 47013 at (503) 388-5356 for assistance, or email LLNW Outreach and Engagement Manager, Yesenia Martines, at yesenia@latinoleadershipnw.org.

Organizations and donors interested in supporting families affected by ICE are encourage to contribute to these efforts, reach out to Council for the Homeless, LULAC or Latino Leadership NW by emailing Sunny at swonder@councilforthehomeless.org, Andy at esident@lulacvancouver.org">president@lulacvancouver.org, and Diana at ector@latinoleadershipnw.org">director@latinoleadershipnw.org.

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

Hayden Island Residents say IBR “Checked a Box, Not Answered Questions” in HiNooN Briefing

Community cites technical concerns, missing data, and new op-ed questioning ground testing on Hayden Island

PORTLAND, OR / HAYDEN ISLAND – Neighbors for a Better Crossing (NFBC) is raising serious concerns about the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program’s recent presentation to the Hayden Island Neighborhood Network (HiNooN), stating that the November briefing on “ground improvement testing” felt more like a scripted outreach exercise than a genuine attempt to inform the community or answer residents’ questions.

During HiNooN’s Board meeting on November 13, IBR staff outlined a $1.9 million “ground improvement” test project scheduled to begin the first week in December at the former ODOT motor carrier site on Hayden Island. The staging ite has already been set and work will involve jet grouting, vibro–stone column installation, and deep soil mixing—methods intended to “strengthen” local soils ahead of their proposed bridge construction. 

Video of IBR discussion with HiNooN:  https://youtu.be/Y4mzHKdD7Yk

Hayden Island residents, and two civil engineers, Bob Ortlblad and Robert Wallis, who have done extensive research on the proposed bridge, repeatedly asked how this testing relates to:

• The seismic risk of the existing I-5 bridges.
• The feasibility of retrofitting the current structures; and
• The true long-term impacts of a massive new bridge on the island’s homes, businesses, and environment.

Those questions were largely deflected or left unanswered.

“We appreciated that IBR finally showed up for Hayden Island, but this felt like a PR box they needed to check, not a conversation they were prepared to have,” said Gary Clark, founder of NFBC. “Our engineers asked very specific technical questions about seismic risk and soil stabilization. IBR’s own resident engineer admitted he hadn’t reviewed key prior studies, and we never got clear answers about why the existing bridge cannot be retrofitted or stabilized.”

“The IBR proposal is either incompetence or corruption,” said Bob Ortblad, MSCE, MBA, during the meeting. “The region is being misled about seismic risk, cost, and viable alternatives. A tunnel is safer, cheaper, and better — and it avoids the destruction of Hayden Island” 

Ortblad reinforced his views in an op ed piece he published after the meeting questioning why IBR is spending nearly $1.94 million on ground improvement testing in what he describes as “solid and well-drained sand” on Hayden Island, given that future bridge approaches and transit station structures are expected to be supported on deep drilled shafts or piles that bypass weak surface soils. Clark County Today

Ortblad notes that:

• IBR already has roughly $13 million worth of geotechnical studies and drilled shaft tests in the Columbia River from the earlier Columbia River Crossing (CRC) project and more recent work. Clark County Today.
• A new 2024 Geotechnical Data Report for the Columbia River and North Portland Harbor—only released via public disclosure request—documents extensive boulders and cobbles that make construction of 96 planned drilled shafts technically challenging and potentially very costly. clarkcountytoday.com
• IBR’s Hayden Island ground-improvement web page links the need for this testing to the “seismic vulnerability” of the existing bridge’s timber piles in liquefiable soils, a connection Ortblad characterizes as misleading given the very different conditions and foundation systems involved.  

Ortblad’s analysis raises the same questions residents raised in the meeting, “If IBR already has extensive in-river geotechnical data, why are they now drilling in Hayden Island sand and using that to justify their narrative about the existing bridge’s foundations?”

Key issues raised – and not answered – in the HiNooN meeting

During the HiNooN briefing, residents and engineers asked IBR to address:

• Seismic risk and retrofitting the existing bridge
  • Whether soil-hardening methods being tested on Hayden Island (jet grouting, stone columns, deep soil mixing) could also be applied around the existing I-5 bridge timber piles under the river.
  • Why a serious, transparent, stand-alone seismic risk report on the current bridges has never been released, despite years of public claims about imminent collapse. Clark County Today
• Use and value of the Hayden Island ground improvement tests
  • How drilling in raised, well-drained island sand will meaningfully inform the design and cost of 10-foot diameter, 250-foot-deep drilled shafts in the Columbia River.  
• Noise, vibration, contamination, and health impacts
  • What noise and vibration levels residents should expect from test drilling and later full construction, especially for nearby floating homes and marinas.
  • How dust, slurry, and groundwater changes will be monitored and reported, and how the community can be assured that contamination will not spread to wetlands and marinas.
• Transparency, visuals, and bridge height over Hayden Island
  • Why, after years of requests and public records filings, IBR still refuses or is unable to provide basic numerical information such as the height of the proposed bridge over Hayden Island despite having produced detailed 3D fly-through videos.
  • Why side-view renderings and height data specific to Hayden Island have not been shared, despite FOIA requests, even as design proceeds and soil tests begin.

The IBR staff frequently responded with:

• References to ongoing federal environmental review and the need to “wait” for the final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) before answering certain questions.
• Promises of future communications, “office hours,” and internal processes.
• General statements about “no secrets” and a “comprehensive website” – without providing the concrete numbers, thresholds, or commitments residents requested.

“We asked how loud it will be, how long it will last, what protections we’ll have if our homes, docks, or shoreline are damaged, and what the actual bridge height will be over our island,” said Clark “We were pointed to a website that is difficult to navigate and a hotline. That is not the level of transparency or accountability this project demands.”

Displacement of Homes and Businesses

The Draft SEIS indicates:

• 43 homes will be displaced 
• 32–35 businesses will be acquired
• 600–742 employees will face economic disruption

Yet no clear compensation framework has been communicated to residents.

“The island is being treated as collateral damage,” said Kimberly Haslett, a Hayden Island resident who volunteers on multiple community advocacy committees.

Health, Noise, and Air Quality Impacts — From IBR’s own Health Analysis

The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program Health Analysis conducted by the Washington State Department of Health, Oregon Health Authority, Multnomah County Health Department, and others warn of:

Operational & Construction Noise

• Floating homes near the North Portland Harbor will experience 66–69 dBA, exceeding federal noise limits.
• Chronic noise exposure is linked to sleep disruption, heart disease, cognitive impairment, and stress, especially in children.

“The Modified LPA would approach or exceed noise abatement criteria at 65 locations… Noise walls are the only mitigation proposed.” — IBR Health Analysis

Air Quality & Diesel Emissions

• Increased construction activity will elevate particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10).
• Diesel emissions are linked to asthma, lung disease, and increased cardiovascular risk, disproportionately affecting sensitive populations.

“We have residents who may lose their homes and have no idea where they will go. Businesses may shutter from years of detours and construction. IBR talks about impacts on freight and transit—but not the health, livelihood, and property damage impacts for people who live here, said Haslett.”

Tolling Burdens that Will Harm Hayden Island Residents and Small Businesses

IBR continues to advance a tolling plan despite widespread community opposition.

“Tolling will devastate island residents, especially low-income families who rely on this crossing daily for groceries, medical appointments, and work. It will hurt small businesses that are already struggling.” said Haslett.

Residents emphasize that tolling revenue is needed only because IBR chose the most expensive and least cost-effective bridge design while ignoring cheaper alternatives. Clark County Today

Pattern of Withheld or Incomplete Information

NFBC and Hayden Island residents see this meeting as part of a broader pattern in which:

• Critical technical information, such as the 2024 Geotechnical Data Report documenting serious boulder problems for drilled shafts, has only surfaced through public disclosure requests rather than proactive release.  
• Alternatives such as an immersed tube tunnel—which independent engineers note will actually reduce traffic congestion, allow future expansion, dramatically cut noise and air-pollution impacts, shorten construction timelines, lower overall costs, and preserve the existing bridges for transit, bicycles, and pedestrians—have been dismissed or downplayed in IBR’s own tunnel “concept assessment,” a report later shown to contain major quantity and cost errors. Clark County Today, Clark County Today

“The geotechnical assumptions being used by IBR are inconsistent with real-world precedent. Many of the claimed risks to the existing bridge can be mitigated with retrofit solutions IBR refuses to evaluate.” said retired Civil Engineer, Robert Wallis, who was the lead engineer on the two biggest public marina projects in Washington and has considerable design and engineers experience on wood piling in the Columbia River. A Civil Engineers Assessment of the Decision to Reject a Tunnel

“When outside engineers have to drag key geotechnical reports into the daylight with public records requests, and when basic questions about bridge height over our homes still can’t be answered, trust is understandably low,” Clark added. “This is not how a $7–10 billion megaproject should be managed.” Clark County Today

What Neighbors for a Better Crossing and Hayden Island are calling for

Following the HiNooN meeting and considering Ortblad’s recent op-ed, NFBC and HiNooN Hayden are calling for:

1. Full transparency on geotechnical data and objectives
   • Immediate public release, in one place, of all major geotechnical reports, including the 2024 Geotechnical Data Report and prior CRC studies.  
   • A clear explanation of how Hayden Island ground tests will materially inform in-river shaft design, costs, and risk.
2. A stand-alone, independent seismic risk assessment of the existing I-5 bridges
   • Produced by experts independent of IBR’s current design consultants and publicly released in full. Neighbors for a Better Crossing
3. Detailed, Hayden Island–specific construction impact disclosure
   • Real numbers for expected noise and vibration levels.
   • Clear plans for air and water quality monitoring.
   • A written, accessible process for documenting and compensating structural damage to homes, docks, marinas, and shoreline caused by testing and construction.
4. Accurate visuals and dimensions
   • Release of bridge heights over Hayden Island and river, with labeled cross-sections and side-view renderings from key residential and marina viewpoints.
5. Serious reconsideration of tunnel alternatives
   • Inclusion of an immersed tube tunnel option, evaluated by an independent consultant, in any final federal review, as previously urged by Ortblad and other transportation experts. clarkcountytoday.com

Hayden Island has more than 3,000 residents, numerous small businesses, marinas, and a unique river habitat. We are not expendable. Before a historic bridge is demolished and billions more are committed, the public deserves honest numbers, real alternatives, and a federal review process that isn’t driven by pre-selected outcomes.

Neighbors for a Better Crossing will continue to work with Hayden Island residents, business owners, engineers, and regional advocates to ensure that any interstate crossing solution is safe, fiscally responsible, environmentally sound, and genuinely transparent. 

HiNooN shared the following letter of questions and concerns with IBR prior to the November 13, meeting and requested a formal reply within 30 days.

November 13, 2025
Meghan Hodges, IBR Community and Government Relations Manager

Nathan Potter, IBR Construction Resident Engineer
Interstate Bridge Replacement Program
500 Broadway, Suite 200
Vancouver, WA 98660

Dear Meghan and Nathan,

On behalf of the Hayden Island Neighborhood Network, local residents, local businesses, marina and floating-home communities, and the ecosystems of the Columbia River adjoining our island, we write to express our serious and growing concern regarding the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) published by your program, and the manner in which the IBR Project has engaged with our community.

Our Concerns 
The proposed demolition of the historic I-5 bridge and construction of a new crossing—already billions of dollars over budget, not approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, offering no measurable improvement to traffic congestion, and still lacking a completed environmental review—will have massive, long-term consequences for our community of more than 3,000 residents.

The Health Analysis prepared by regional health departments confirms what our community has long feared: that this project will exceed federal noise thresholds, disturb toxic river sediments, displace homes and businesses, and create disproportionate impacts on vulnerable communities such as ours.

These include, but are not limited to:

Extensive years of pile-driving, drilling, heavy construction, vibration and noise that will directly affect houses, condos, floating homes, docks, businesses, the Columbia River, and the marina environment on Hayden Island. 

Loss of property and displacement of both residents and island businesses—many of whom will be forced to relocate or shut down permanently due to demolition, detours, and loss of access.

Environmental risks including disturbed river sediments, water-quality threats, impacts to fish and wildlife habitat, and lasting ecological strain on the river corridor. 

Structural risks to the island itself, including potential soil liquefaction, sinkholes, cracking, and shoreline collapse from years of planned vibration and drilling.

Public health impacts from sustained air and noise pollution, increased stress, and cardiovascular and respiratory illness — issues the IBR has yet to address in any meaningful way.

Economic burdens and equity impacts on our residents who depend on the bridge for daily access to groceries, medical care, work and essential services—particularly when tolling is factored in. 

Insufficient transparency and accountability: our community’s requests for side-view renderings, vibration and noise monitoring data, detailed construction schedules, and assurances of compensation for property damage have been either ignored or inadequately addressed.

Unanswered Questions

We respectfully demand written, detailed responses to the following:

1. What specific vibration and noise thresholds will apply during pile driving and drilling phases, and how will these be monitored in real time for the benefit of homes, condos, floating homes, residents, and businesses?
2. What protections and compensation processes are in place if homes, properties, docks, or floating residences sustain damage (cracking, settling, structural shift) due to ground improvement or construction?
3. Will IBR commit to a written compensation and mitigation agreement for every resident and business affected by displacement or relocation? How will fair market value, business losses, and moving expenses be determined and guaranteed?
4. How will IBR address air quality, particulate emissions, and health risks to residents who will be exposed for years to dust, diesel exhaust, and noise-related stress? If medical impacts occur, how will residents seek compensation for uncovered healthcare costs?
5. How will the program ensure water quality protection during in-water work that disturbs hazardous sediments and toxics like PCBs and PAHs?
6. What is the full construction timeline and phasing plan for Hayden Island, including major noise, vibration, and access disruptions?
7. How will tolling and detours impact residents who depend on bridge access for essential services, and what mitigation or toll relief will be offered?
8. Will an independent third-party monitoring entity be established with the authority to measure compliance, report findings publicly, and enforce accountability when residents experience harm?

Community Concessions and Commitments we Expect

To rebuild trust and protect the health, safety, and livelihoods of Hayden Island residents, we request the following:

• A comprehensive written compensation and relocation agreement for all displaced residents and businesses, including those indirectly affected by long-term construction impacts.
• Real-time environmental and noise monitoring stations on Hayden Island, with public data access and alerts.
• Transparent construction maps and renderings showing staging areas, vibration zones, and truck routes.
• A clear, accessible compensation process for property or health-related damages, with independent assessment and timely resolution.
• Resident toll-relief and mitigation funds recognizing Hayden Island’s lack of alternative access and the disproportionate burden we will bear.
• An independent oversight committee that includes Hayden Island representatives, environmental experts, and health professionals to ensure IBR accountability.
• A dedicated community liaison assigned solely to Hayden Island, to maintain ongoing communication, publish updates, and ensure that no concern goes unaddressed.

Our community will continue to engage proactively and respectfully, but we cannot ignore the real and documented risks this project poses to Hayden Island’s residents, businesses, and environment. Without meaningful transparency, accountability, and enforceable protections—especially given the cost, scale, and duration of this project—our neighborhood, our marine life, and our homes will suffer the consequences.

We request a formal written response to these concerns and questions within 30 days.

Sincerely,
Hayden Island Neighborhood Network (HiNooN)
MyHaydenIsland.com

Oaks Park Roller Rink, America's oldest skating rink, is serving up all the festive family fun during the upcoming Thanksgiving school break with extended hours, special holiday programming, and a fan-favorite themed night to close out the week.

Monday through Wednesday, families, friend groups, and skaters of all ages can enjoy extended afternoon Open Skate sessions from 1-5 PM, offering even more time to get rolling during the school break.

On Thanksgiving night, guests are invited to unwind and celebrate with a uniquely Portland tradition: a live pipe organ skating session at 7 PM. Glide into the holiday evening as the historic Wurlitzer fills the rink with warm, nostalgic sound.

Then, cap off the week in true pop-princess style at Swifty Skate on Sunday, November 30, from 7–9:30 PM. This much-loved themed skate brings together Taylor Swift hits, shimmering lights, and signature Oaks Park fun for a night that’s bound to feel like a fairytale ending to the holiday break.

With classic charm, modern energy, and something special every day of the week, Oaks Park Roller Rink is the perfect place to keep kids active, families connected, and holiday spirits high.

For full schedules, admissions, and ticket information, visit oakspark.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

ty@oregoncf.org" target="_blank">Cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation and Donors Commit $1.9 Million to Organizations That Feed Hungry Oregonians

Donations and Grants Support Nonprofits Providing Food and Nutrition Services throughout Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — The recent disruption in federal food assistance has generated a wave of generosity from Oregonians. In just six weeks, Oregon Community Foundation and its donors have committed $1.9 million to organizations that help get food to Oregonians who need it. 

The surge in giving between October 1 and November 17, 2025 happened when generous Oregonians stepped up to help through Donor Advised Funds, Corporate and Community Advised Funds and donations to the Stronger Together Fund of OCF. Separately, the OCF Board of Directors has approved a $250,000 special grant from OCF to combat food insecurity in Oregon and 18 grants totaling $300,000 to food-related organizations through the OCF Community Grants program. 

Donors Motivated by Disruption to Federal Food Benefits 

Financial support for food and nutrition services spiked in mid-October when news broke that a federal government shutdown would disrupt federal food benefits known as SNAP for 757,000 Oregonians. In response, donors began making grants to nonprofits that feed Oregonians as visits to those organizations increased sharply. 

“Oregonians help their neighbors in times of need,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. Mensah also serves on the board of Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and programs.  

“When our food bank system said, ‘We have lines out the door and not enough food on our shelves,’ our donors heard the call and said, ‘Not on our watch,’” she said. “I’m so grateful to our donors, philanthropic partners and the nonprofit partners and volunteers who do the hard work of feeding our communities day after day.” 

The disruption to SNAP benefits began November 1. In response, Oregon Community Foundation called on donors to help stabilize and support the network of food banks, food pantries and other organizations that distribute food. Donors responded with contributions flowing into the Stronger Together Fund of Oregon Community Foundation, which is giving all money raised between November 1 and December 5 to food-related nonprofits.  

Hunger Touches Every Community 

A vast network helps feed Oregonians experiencing food insecurity. The Oregon Food Bank partners with 21 regional food banks and more than 1,200 food assistances sites. In addition, many organizations operate food assistance programs outside of the Oregon Food Bank. 

At an Oregon Community Foundation virtual briefing last week, food bank leaders and foundation partners described a system grappling with the twin challenges of a diminished food supply and unprecedented demand.  

Cuts to the federal funding that helps fill food bank shelves reduced the flow of food into Oregon at the same time rising food, housing and energy costs caused more people to visit food banks to make ends meet. The disruption to SNAP benefits put that dynamic, “on steroids,” said Scott Cooper, Executive Director of NeighborImpact. He said his Central Oregon food banks will see nearly 1 million visits this year in a region with soaring housing costs. 

One regional food bank leader described parents parking blocks away from the food bank and arriving with a child on their hip, towing a wagon to fill with food.  

“They need to be fed,” said Lori Garrard, Executive Director of Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank. 

Marion Polk Food Share President and CEO Rick Gaupo shared about a working mom who lost $500 in food benefits at the start of November. She turned to her local pantry for the first time when she couldn’t get more work.  

Hunger More Common in Rural Areas 

One in eight Oregonians experience hunger, and in rural and remote Oregon, residents face food insecurity rates nearly double those in urban areas. 

Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla shared at the virtual briefing that the private family foundation will give $6 million over the next three years to support rural Oregon food banks. Private foundations including the Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, the Lora & Martin Kelley Family Foundation and others are also giving generously to food and food-related organizations.  

Borla offered stories of hope from rural communities. 

“I have heard specifically of community dinners in small rural places where they feed 160 people a week. We've got libraries that are showing up with meals on a weekly basis,” Borla said. “There was a high school here locally, and instead of trick-or-treating, the high school students planned and picked up bags of donated food from everybody's porch. People are showing up in a way that really does build community.” 

OCF donors have seen the need up close. 

“Food insecurity doesn’t stop at the city limits,” says Betsy Priddy, an OCF donor. “After visiting Eastern Oregon, I witnessed first-hand the deep relationships forged even in our most remote communities. Local organizations are doing transformative work on modest budgets, proving that impact isn’t measured in dollars alone. For me, it’s simple: I support OCF in deploying resources where they will make the greatest difference.” 

About Oregon Community Foundation 

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

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Portland, OR — Kick off the holiday season on Sunday, December 7 at Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors. Visit with more than 65 local writers from 12pm to 4pm as you sip on hot cocoa, enjoy festive treats, and get a jump on your holiday shopping! Admission is free and includes access to both the book sale and museum exhibitions.

This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! Featured authors include Pulitzer Prize–winning cartoonist Jack Ohman, New York Times bestselling historical fiction author Kristina McMorris, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile, and Steve Prefontaine biographer Brendan O’Meara. View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the festivities, the popular Meier & Frank Santaland display will be back on view! Generations of Oregonians have fond memories of the downtown Portland Meier & Frank department store’s Santaland. A ride on the iconic Monorail and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap became a Christmas tradition for many families. Following the closure of Macy’s downtown store (which purchased Meier & Frank in 2005), a small number of items from Santaland were donated to OHS, which have been displayed annually since 2018. Come share in the holiday cheer with a visit to this nostalgic display, featuring Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the beloved monorail. The well-remembered Cinnamon Bear costume from Lipman’s holiday traditions will also be on display.

The museum galleries will be open from 12pm to 5pm. In addition to Santaland, featured exhibitions will include:

• She Flies with Her Own Wings, a look at Oregon’s golden age of aviation in the 1930s that shares how flight reshaped lives and technology.
• June Drake: Preserving the Past to Shape the Future, a retrospective of photographer June D. Drake’s work documenting life in Silverton, Oregon, and surrounding areas and the evolution of rural Oregon over six decades.
• The Yasui Family: An American Story, which shares one Oregon family’s experiences of racism, incarceration, and their unwavering commitment to justice, reflecting broader civil rights struggles in America.
• “We Were All Living a Dream”, a photographic exhibition of Donna Pollach’s intimate portraits of feminist and lesbian communities in 1970s Portland, chronicling their activism, camaraderie, and challenges.

For 56 years, OHS has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

Workers File Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against Legacy; Invite Executives Back to the Bargaining Table “We’ll bring the turkey, the sides and the pumpkin pie.”

(Portland, Ore.) – The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Legacy Health for illegally refusing to meet with advanced practice providers (APPs) and come to a fair contract agreement to prevent a strike. While Legacy has told workers, “We have been in active labor contract bargaining with staff and continue to work in good faith to create a contract that is beneficial to all parties.” In fact, Legacy executives and outside lawyers walked away from the bargaining table Nov. 20 and have said they would not continue contract discussions; a violation of federal law. 

The 135 advanced practice providers (APPs) at Legacy Health have offered to meet with Legacy executives every day leading up to a strike in order to reach a fair agreement that protects patients, enables Legacy to recruit and retain skilled caregivers, ends inequitable practices like unpaid work and averts the need for a strike. If Legacy continues illegally refusing to meet with healthcare providers, a strike will start Dec. 2.

“We’re fighting for a fair contract to give every patient what they deserve: shorter wait times, more available appointments and continuity with the caregivers you know and trust,” said Leigh Warsing, PA and ONA bargaining team member at Legacy. “We’re ready to reach a fair agreement that improves patient care and avoids a strike, but we need Legacy executives to come to the table.”

“We’ll bring the turkey, the sides and the pumpkin pie.” Warsing added. “Legacy executives just have to show up.”

• Click here to watch APPs press conference on Nov. 21 

The APPs at Legacy include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who care for patients in the Portland metro area and SW Washington. They are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) which represents more than 3,500 frontline healthcare providers at hospitals and clinics throughout the Legacy Health system. 

While not unique, Legacy’s illegal refusal to meet with healthcare workers is unusual. Multiple Oregon hospitals and health systems, including Kaiser Permanente and St. Charles Bend, met with caregivers in the days leading up to a strike and reached fair agreements which prevented them. In recent years, ten California hospitals and health systems have also reached similar agreements in the 10 days prior to strikes. Multiple hospitals and health systems in New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois have also continued talks with frontline healthcare workers in the days before a strike and successfully reached agreements which prevented strikes from occurring. 

Community members can visit www.OregonRN.org/RespectAPPs to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the APPs, and stay informed about the impact of the potential strike.

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Nurse practitioners, physician associates, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists treat patients in Legacy hospitals and clinics.

(Portland, Ore.) — At a press conference this morning, advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Health—represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA)—announced that they delivered a formal strike notice to Legacy executives. The notice informs management that 135 APPs across the Legacy Health system will begin an open-ended strike on December 2, 2025, at 6 a.m., if Legacy fails to reach a fair contract agreement.

Legacy continues to lag behind what Kaiser and OHSU offer their APPs in total compensation and will struggle to recruit and retain top frontline caregivers unless it makes meaningful movement at the bargaining table. Many Legacy APPs aren’t even compensated for the administrative work they’re required to complete, a situation that underscores the deep inequities they are fighting to fix.

• Click here to watch ONA APP’s press conference. 

The APPs include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who provide direct patient care in Legacy hospitals and clinics throughout the Portland Metro Area and in SW Washington. 

“We are striking because we want our exceptional healthcare providers to continue caring for our community. Our team has made Legacy a place patients can trust. With Legacy’s current contract offer, my colleagues will leave for better-paying, better-supported jobs elsewhere—leaving patients with fewer, less experienced providers when they need us the most,” said Leigh Warsing, PA and ONA bargaining team member at Legacy. “Legacy management needs to return to the table and negotiate a fair contract that retains experienced providers and protects the safety of every patient who comes through our doors.”

ONA has offered to meet with Legacy every day leading up to the strike, but Legacy has refused to meet. APPs remain ready, willing, and able to negotiate around the clock to reach an agreement and avert a strike.

Reasons for the strike: 

• The current proposal from Legacy keeps APP wages well behind APPs at other area health systems.  
• APPs are routinely working unpaid hours to deliver patient care, complete required administrative tasks, and during patient hand-offs. 
• APPs should be paid for holidays and weather closures and not have to use their annual paid leave (which should be used for vacation/personal needs) to make their paychecks whole.

APPs at Legacy formed their union in December 2023 and have been in contract negotiations since May 2024.

Healthcare workers have provided Legacy more than 10-days advance notice of the strike to give Legacy time to make alternate arrangements for patients and determine what services they will continue to provide.  

Legacy Refuses to Continue Bargaining 

On Thursday, November 20, Legacy executives and their hired law firm walked away from bargaining, telling APPs they would not continue negotiations because of the strike notice. APPs have offered to meet every day to reach an agreement and avoid a strike.

Picket lines will be established at Legacy Good Samaritan and Legacy Emanuel hospitals from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 2. Starting December 3, picket lines will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week. This is an open-ended strike.

Community members can visit OregonRN.org/RespectAPPs to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the APPs, and stay informed about the impact of the potential strike.

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EMBARGOED UNTIL 10 A.M. NOVEMBER 21, 2025

WHAT: Advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Health will hold a press conference to discuss their notice of an open-ended strike starting Tuesday, December 2 at 6 a.m. Following prepared remarks, speakers will take questions from the press.

APPs delivered their formal strike notice to Legacy management on November 20 after more than 18 months at the bargaining table. Since APPs voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike on October 14, 2025, they have met with Legacy management seven times in an effort to reach a fair contract. Instead of continued engagement, Legacy’s hired legal team told APPs they were walking away from negotiations and would not consider any additional proposals.

Despite Legacy’s refusal to continue bargaining, APPs have offered bargaining dates and remain fully committed to reaching an agreement and preventing a work stoppage. Legacy’s legal team has made it clear they will not return to the table during the legally-required notice period—a choice that brings the health system closer to an avoidable strike.

The APPs are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). They joined the statewide organization in December 2023.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 21, 2025  

WHERE: Oregon Nurses Association, 18765 SW Boones Ferry Rd., Tualatin, OR. 3rd Floor

WHO: APPs who are part of the Legacy Downtown/Specialties Bargaining Unit 

• Becky Berman, NP 
• April Callister, PA 
• Melissa Dolbec, NP 
• Leigh Warsing, PA 

WHY: Legacy continues to lag behind regional healthcare systems like Kaiser and OHSU in APP compensation including benefits—putting the organization at risk of losing top frontline caregivers unless it makes meaningful movement at the bargaining table. APPs are one of the fastest-growing professions in healthcare. They work alongside physicians to expand access, reduce wait times, and ensure patients receive timely, high-quality care.

Despite this critical role, Legacy does not offer competitive wages, and some APPs are now considering leaving the system. Many are not even compensated for the administrative work required of them—an inequity that highlights the systemic issues APPs are fighting to address.

The 135 APPs preparing to strike include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who provide direct patient care across the Portland Metro Area and Southwest Washington. 

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What: SAIF will be presenting a free half-day seminar on agricultural safety and health on Wednesday, December 3.

Who should attend: The seminar is designed primarily for people working in agriculture but is open to anyone interested in ag safety and health, they don’t have to be insured by SAIF.

When: Wednesday, December 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch is included. SAIF will return to Salem to offer ag safety seminars in both English and Spanish in February.

Where: The Cascade Hall of the Oregon State Fair Expo Center, located at 2330 17th Street NE.

More information: Below and at saif.com/agseminars. Photos from previous seminars are available by request. 

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SAIF kicking off free fall and winter ag safety seminars

SAIF is once again visiting cities across the state to offer free agriculture safety sessions.

SAIF has offered agricultural safety seminars for nearly 30 years, helping Oregon’s farm owners, managers, and workers stay safe in one of the most hazardous industries.

The seminars are designed primarily for people working in agriculture but are open to anyone interested in safety and health—they don't have to be insured by SAIF.

SAIF is conducting 31 free ag safety seminars in 16 cities across Oregon. Seminars will continue through March and 10 of the seminars will be presented entirely in Spanish. 

This year's seminars focus on four topics:

• Machine guarding and energy control
• Fire code on the farm
• Respiratory programs
• Making the most of safety committee meetings

SAIF will also host online webinars in both January and March in English and Spanish. 

In-person seminars will be in Bandon, Central Point, Clackamas, Corvallis, Eugene, Hermiston, Hillsboro, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Madras, Mt. Angle, Ontario, Pendleton, Salem, The Dalles, and Wilsonville.

Spanish seminars will be held in Central Point, Clackamas, Hermiston, Hillsboro, Hood River, Madras, Mt. Angel, Salem, The Dalles, and Wilsonville. 

All will run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and lunch will be provided.

Employers with small ag businesses who attend the seminar, or watch the webinars, will meet OSHA's instructional requirement—one of four requirements that exempt small agricultural operations from random OSHA inspections.

Four hours of continuing education credits are available from the Landscape Contractors Board. Producer continuing education credit hours for licensed insurance agents are pending approval by the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

More information—including registration details—can be found at www.saif.com/agseminars.

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we’ve been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

For Immediate Release                                                                           Contact: Courtney Dodds

November 20, 2025                                                                                            Cell: 971-275-2334

Union Gospel Mission Planning to Serve 450 Meals on Thanksgiving Day

Portland, Ore. - Union Gospel Mission’s Thanksgiving Day meal for those experiencing homelessness or anyone who needs a place to spend the holiday will take place on Thursday, November 27 at 10:00 a.m. at 15 NW Third Avenue.

The meal will include traditional favorites such as turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, tropical fruit salad, cranberry sauce, a dinner roll with butter and pumpkin pie with whipped cream. Guests will have the option to dine in or take their meal to go. They will also receive a snack sack for later in the day.

UGM began its Thanksgiving celebrations on November 13th at the overnight shelter it manages in SE Portland. They are serving Thanksgiving meals all next week on their mobile Search + Rescue outreach in addition to the Thanksgiving Day meal at the downtown location.

They cooked about 100 turkeys in total and 300 pounds each of mashed potatoes and stuffing, and 50 gallons of turkey gravy and all the fixings.

“I’m thankful for our generous donors and businesses that make all the meals possible during Thanksgiving and throughout the year,” said Lori Quinney, Food Service Director

If you would like to help the Mission provide meals to those in need, visit www.ugmportland.org/donate, call 503-274-4483 or mail a check to 3 NW Third Avenue, Portland, OR 97209.

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals and care for those experiencing homelessness and is home to LifeChange – a long-term residential recovery program for men, women and children. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx.

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