By fingerprints, BCSO detectives identified the female as Deborah Rosemary Haikkila, of Albany; she had not been reported missing.

BCSO asks the community to continue to call in tips on black Toyota Corolla Cross and similar vehicles with damage to the front passenger side to 541-753-8477.
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April 25 @ 11:11 am
CORVALLIS, Ore. – BCSO investigators have identified the victim in this recent incident. The 29-year-old female’s name is being withheld pending contact of next of kin.

Investigators are seeking information on a newer model black Toyota Corolla Cross that may have been involved. The vehicle should have recent front-end passenger-side damage.

Please call 541-753-8477 or email entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov if you have information that may lead detectives to the driver.
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April 24, 2024 @ 7:50 pm
CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is currently investigating a possible hit and run involving a deceased unidentified female estimated to be between 20-40 years old. 

The involved vehicle is currently unknown but could be a black Toyota, unknown model, with potential damage to the front passenger side.

The incident occurred on Highway 20 near Hyak Park, between Albany and Corvallis.

At about 3:00 p.m. today, law enforcement was notified of the deceased female by a local farmer.

Investigators believe the incident took place sometime within the last couple of days.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact BCSO at 541-766-6858 or call their tip line at 541-753-8477(TIPS) to remain anonymous.

Further details will be provided as they become available.
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Update 4/24/24 15:35 hours

Several photos of the encampment have been added. 

It is believed the remains are of an adult male.

On 4/22/2024, Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) patrol deputies, acting on an online report from a resident, located partially decomposed human remains in a tent structure at a transient camp in the wooded area north of NE 179^th St near NE 10^th Ave.  Due to several factors, including the difficulty accessing the site, a recovery plan was made for the morning. 

On 4/23/2024, volunteers from Clark County Search and Rescue and Silver Star Search and Rescue cut a path through the woods, allowing easier access to the transient camp.  CCSO Major Crimes Unit (MCU) and the Clark County Medical Examiner’s office disassembled the tent structure and recovered the human remains.  There were indications the remains had been there for an extended period of time, with initial estimates of between 6 – 12 months.  

The identity of the deceased is still under investigation by the Clark County Medical Examiner's Office. 

At this point, there are no indications of foul play, but the death remains under investigation by CCSO MCU.

Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue will perform a traditional “push-in” ceremony for our new ambulance on May 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Ridgefield Fire Station (911 N. 65^th Avenue, Ridgefield, WA 98642).  

This is the first of two ambulances gifted to CCFR by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe Foundation. The total amount of the gift for two brand new fully equipped ambulances is nearly $950,000. The unit will initially respond as “Rescue 21” and provide first-response to emergency medical and fire incidents within the CCFR response area. It will be staffed by a firefighter/EMT and a firefighter/paramedic. Beginning in January 2025 and as part of the new regional ambulance contract, “Rescue-21” will become “Medic-21” and function as a transport ambulance for high priority patients in the CCFR response area. “These new response units will help CCFR provide a higher level of emergency response to our residents and visitors” said Fire Chief John Nohr. 

The push-in ceremony is a fire service tradition that dates back to the late 1800s when fire departments used hand-drawn pumpers and horse-drawn equipment. Upon returning to the station after a fire call, the horses could not easily back the equipment into the station, so they were disconnected from the fire equipment and firefighters would push the equipment back into the bay themselves. 

Members of the public are encouraged to join CCFR for the push-in ceremony. 

SUBJECT: PHONE SCAM 

Clatsop County Sheriff's Office Issues Warning on Recent Phone Scams

April 26, 2024 – Our Office is alerting residents to a surge in phone scams targeting individuals in our community. We have reports of individuals at the bank trying to withdraw thousands of dollars to pay for “fines” to avoid warrants and jail time. This is simply not the way we conduct business as a law enforcement agency. These scams are designed to deceive victims by posing as legitimate entities and using convincing tactics to extract personal information or money.

Scammers employ various strategies to make their scams appear authentic, including spoofing phone numbers to mimic official organizations, using urgency or fear tactics, and providing false promises of prizes or rewards.

Common tactics used by scammers to convince victims include:

1. Threats and Urgency: Scammers may create a sense of urgency by threatening legal action, arrest, or immediate consequences if the victim does not comply.
2. Spoofing and Impersonation: They often spoof legitimate phone numbers or impersonate trusted organizations, making their calls seem genuine.
3. False Promises: Scammers may lure victims with false promises of prizes, rewards, or services, leading them to share personal information or make financial transactions.

To avoid falling victim to phone scams, the Sheriff's Office recommends the following precautions:

1. Verify Caller Identity: If you receive a suspicious call, verify the caller's identity independently using official contact information from trusted sources.
2. Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information such as social security numbers, bank account details, or passwords over the phone.
3. Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious of unsolicited offers, especially those requiring immediate action or payment.
4. Don’t answer the call, let it go to voicemail: This will allow you to verify information before responding to a call.

The Sheriff's Office urges residents to stay informed and share this information with family, friends, and neighbors to prevent falling victim to phone scams. For more information or to report a scam, contact the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-325-2061 or visit https://www.clatsopcounty.gov/sheriff.

Stay vigilant and protect yourself from phone scams!

Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office 

Paul Williams

https://www.clatsopcounty.gov/sheriff

Kelso, WA - Cowlitz County emergency dispatchers were alerted to a possible crash from an Automatic iPhone crash notification in the 2000 Block of Kelso Dr early Friday morning. Dispatchers notified Kelso Police and Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue of the potential crash at 0140am. Shortly after the first Police and Firefighters responded, 911 calls came in from other drivers stating a vehicle was on its side and is also on fire.

Two Kelso Police officers were the first to arrive followed within seconds by a Cowlitz County sheriff's deputy. All three officers bravely approached the vehicle that was on fire resting on its passenger side in a grassy area between I-5 and Kelso Dr to find a single female occupant trapped inside the vehicle. Each of the officers used their Fire extinguishers from their patrol cars to keep the fire as small as possible and out of the passenger compartment until Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue arrived.

A Cowlitz 2 Battalion Chief arrived approximately 15 seconds after the arriving Police Officers and declared the situation an immediate rescue with rapid extrication. Firefighters worked simultaneously to extricate the trapped woman from the car, stabilizing the vehicle and extinguishing the fire in the engine compartment. The woman was transported by Cowlitz 2 to a local hospital as a trauma patient with non-life-threatening injuries.

It was no doubt that the quick actions of the initial arriving Police Officers using their Fire Extinguishers contributed to the saving of the woman’s life from the ensuing fire caused by the rollover accident.

One Police officer received minor lacerations to their hand during the rescue of the driver. They were treated on scene and need no additional medical care.

The accident is being investigated by Kelso Police officers.

PRESS RELEASE

A24-7662

PURSUIT INVOLVING STOLEN LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLE

APRIL 24, 2024

At about 0900 hours of April 24, 2024, Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Deputies received information about a stolen law enforcement vehicle that was headed Northbound on I-5, approaching Cowlitz County.  The vehicle had reportedly been stolen from a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent and was reported to have a firearm secured inside the vehicle.

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Deputies, assisted by other local agencies, located the vehicle and attempted to stop it.  The suspect attempted to elude law enforcement officers while driving at speeds over 100 MPH and making erratic lane changes.  Deputies deployed spike strips at multiple locations and were eventually able to deflate one of the stolen vehicle’s tires. 

The suspect continued to drive Northbound after losing a tire and took exit 48 near Castle Rock. As the suspect continued to elude, a deputy utilized a Pursuit Intervention Technique to disable the vehicle. The suspect then rolled the vehicle on its top and was taken into custody without further incident.

Deputies were later advised by Homeland Security Investigations that the suspect, identified as Travis J. Grygla, age 43, of Portland had been placed under arrest by agents as they executed a search warrant at his Portland residence on this date.  Grygla had not been handcuffed and was seated in a Special Agent’s vehicle when he took control of the vehicle and fled from law enforcement, fleeing from Oregon until he was arrested near Castle Rock, Washington.

Grygla was returned to HSI custody.  The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office will be requesting a warrant for Travis Grygla on multiple charges regarding today’s incident.

Washington State Patrol, Castle Rock Police, Kalama Police, and Woodland Police Departments assisted with this incident.  Please refer questions regarding the initial contact and HSI investigation of suspect Travis Grygla to the Department of Homeland Security.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

PORTLAND, OREGON– On Friday, April 19, 2024, FBI Director Christopher Wray presented the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative (IPAC) with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) for their service to the Portland area. Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of IPAC. IPAC is a united group that proactively gathers as members of faith, community, business, and law enforcement to discuss and create action around bringing peace to Portland’s streets. The group researches best practices and identifies appropriate actions, technology, and street-level solutions to address violence at a grassroots level. IPAC is also working to become a model for, and share information with, other cities that are struggling with an uptick in crime. 

“IPAC is intentional about promoting restraint on the street and creating and maintaining dialogue between the community members it represents and law enforcement. This directly intersects with the FBI’s national mission of protecting the American people, and FBI Portland’s local mission of keeping the people of Oregon safe,” said Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “FBI Portland is proud to work with the leaders of IPAC as they devote countless hours to addressing the crisis of violence on Portland streets and are working toward solutions for a safer, shared community.”

The FBI established the DCLA in 1990 to publicly acknowledge the achievements of those working to make a difference in their communities through the promotion of education and the prevention of crime and violence. Each year, one person or organization from each of the FBI’s 56 field offices is chosen to receive this prestigious award.

"Our success as both a law enforcement and an intelligence agency hinges on our ability to foster and maintain genuine partnerships with people in all communities,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “People like this year’s Leadership Award recipients not only identify what others need, but they are willing to roll up their sleeves and provide services. They are building bridges and relationships while putting in the work to have hard conversations and find common purpose. They do it out of kindness and compassion with a sincere belief that justice – in its many forms – requires all of us to do the right thing in the right way."

Director Wray hosted the 2023 DCLA winners in a special ceremony at FBI Headquarters on April 19th, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships in keeping our shared communities safe. These partnerships – as exemplified by the breadth of the work by the DCLA recipients – have led to a host of crime prevention programs that protect the most vulnerable in our communities, educate families and businesses about cyber threats, and work to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. Learn more about the Director's Community Leadership Award, IPAC, and the FBI Portland Field Office online DCLA 2023 Winners — FBI. Learn more about the FBI’s general outreach efforts, and the Portland Field Office online About — FBI.

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Attached photo: Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative. 

RELEASE DATE:                April. 24, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:          On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                 24-16805

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police identified the 15-year-old responsible for shooting the windows of seven school buses on the way to pick up students. Calls came in shortly after 2:30 p.m., reporting that someone had shot the windows out on multiple buses with a pellet gun. The buses were driving on SE Powell Valley Blvd. near Kane Dr when they were struck. There were no students aboard the buses at the time of the incident.

Officers responded and investigated the incident. In total, 7 buses were struck by projectiles damaging three windshields and four side-windows. A 15-year-old suspect was identified and contacted by officers. He admitted to shooting the school bus windows with a pellet gun. He was transported to the Donald E Long Home on suspicion of Criminal Mischief I.

Gresham Police reminds the community that our schools partner with SafeOregon, which gives kids, parents, schools, and our community a way to report safety threats or potential acts of violence confidentially or anonymously with a simple phone call, text, email or by using the web form or mobile app.

###30###

In the early morning hours of April 22nd, Hillsboro Police received a report of a kidnapping captured on a community member’s doorbell camera. A team of investigators was formed and we requested the assistance of the community in identifying the suspect and victim from the video circulating on social media.

By the early morning hours of April 23rd, the suspect and victim were identified. The suspect was arrested and the victim is safe. The suspect and victim knew each other and this was not a random attack. There is no danger to the public. The suspect is charged with Kidnapping.

We are not releasing the names of the suspect or victim at this time.

Thank you to all the community members who contacted us to provide tips and leads in this investigation.

We are looking for any information the community may have regarding this incident. Please contact the Hillsboro Police at (503) 629-0111 or 911 if you have any information which could assist in the investigation.

Members of the Lebanon Fire District responded Wednesday evening to a reported house fire in the 100 block of Taylor Street. Initial dispatch report was fire coming from vents in the kitchen. The Incident Commander arrived to find smoke coming from the residence. After preforming a walk around of building the IC declared an offensive attacked and ordered the first arriving engine to pull an attack line through front door and begin suppression efforts. Once initial crews made their way through the structure, it was determined that the fire was coming from underneath the house. After making access underneath the house in the rear of the structure, firefighters quickly extinguished the fire.   

The investigation found the cause of the fire undetermined. The Lebanon Fire District responded with 18 personnel on 4 Engines, 2 ALS medic units, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Heavy Rescue and 3 Chief officers. The district was assisted by 4 patrol officers by Lebanon Police Department.

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind the community of the importance of working smoke alarms and having a plan of escape in the case of a fire. 

Lebanon Fire District responds to shed fire in Lacomb. At approximately 1212am Lebanon Fire was dispatched for the report of structure fire in 33000 block of Ford Mill Rd. Initial reports stated that there was a shed on fire with livestock inside. BC31 was the first arriving unit and found a 20X30 shed that was fully involved and spreading to a vehicle that was parked close by. The first arriving Engine was able to make a quick knock down on the fire and keep it form spreading to other parked vehicles. Lebanon Fire District responded with 2 Engines, 3 Water Tenders, 2 Ambulances and a Battalion Chief Vehicle. Totaling 13 people.  Lebanon Fire District was assisted by Albany Fire Department for City coverage while the fire was being extinguished. 

Lebanon Fire district would like to remind everyone to use caution when using portable heat sources. It is important to make sure that the heat source is secured and away from placed a safe distance from combustible items. 

On April 18^th, 2024, Lincoln City Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Police, Toledo Police, and Oregon State Police conducted joint investigations into Child Luring crimes in Lincoln County. During the investigations, officers posed as underage children on various online social media platforms and were contacted by two separate adult men who were offering to meet up for a sexual encounter. The following arrests were made during the course of these investigations:

Jagdeep Singh, age 23 of Salem, was arrested after attempting to meet with a child for sex at an undisclosed location in Lincoln City. Singh was charged with Luring a Minor and Online Sex Corruption of a Child 1^st Degree, and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail.

Alec Adams, age 27 of Depoe Bay, was arrested after offering to meet with a child for sex at an undisclosed location in Lincoln County. Adams was charged with Luring a Minor and Online Sex Corruption of a Child 2^nd Degree, and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail.

The Lincoln City Police would like to express our thanks to all the local law enforcement agencies who took part in this joint operation working together in partnership to keep all of our Lincoln County citizens safe. A special thank you is also sent out to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Oswego Police Department for their assistance with the operation. 

The Lincoln City Police wants to encourage parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in an effort to reduce criminal activity and to further enhance the safety of our community.

Submitted by: Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

Having visible house numbers to identify your address is important for guests, mail delivery, and of course, emergency personnel. It is much harder for emergency responders to find your home if your house number is not clearly displayed. Depending on the lighting and placement, your house numbers may not be visible from the street, especially at night. A poorly placed number can cost precious time in an emergency. Consider the following guidelines to help increase visibility as you display your house number.

On Your House

1. The number should be posted so that it is visible from both directions of street travel.
2. Trees, bushes, and other debris should not block visibility from the road.
3. Numbers should be placed above eye level, near the front door and well-lit at night.
4. Avoid placing numbers away from the front door such as above garage doors.

On Your Mailbox

1. Remember to mark both sides and the front of your mailbox. Do not use your mailbox as the only means of identification for your house. Numbers on the mailbox door may be great for your mail carrier, but they can be difficult to be seen by drivers during an emergency.
2. The numbers on the mailbox need to be highly visible. Remember to use high-contrast stickers or paint when adding your numbers to the mailbox. White numbers on a black mailbox are a great choice for visibility. Shiny silver numbers on a black mailbox are NOT very visible.
3. Another high-visibility option is to mount a sign above or below the mailbox. Again, use contrasting colors such as white on black.
4. If your mailbox is not in front of your house or near your driveway, emergency responders cannot use this to locate you. To help emergency responders locate your house faster, place your house number on your house or on a signpost in your yard.

Address Signs

1. The bigger, the better. The numbers should be at least four inches tall if displayed on a house or sign. Use boldface type that is wide.
2. Address signs should be placed about two feet from the driveway in the direction of the house.
3. Pick a color that will contrast with the background. If your house is a dark color, the address sign should be light so that the number stands out and can be viewed from the street. For example, a black number is perfect on a white house. A white number will also show clearly on a brick house.
4. Ensure the address sign is well-lit, especially at night.
5. Use caution with brass or bronze numbers as they are difficult to see on many backgrounds.

Following these guidelines can save valuable time in the event of an emergency by allowing emergency responders to find your home faster. Help us help you!

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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Devon was located this evening just moments ago. He is safe back home and uninjured. Thank you for the public assistance.  

Devon Whiteshell, age 14 walked away from his care home near Ward Dr NE / Lancaster Dr NE in Salem around 5:40 p.m. this evening.

Devon is 5’02” tall, skinny build. He was last seen wearing a gray zip-up jacket, dark blue/black jeans, and carrying a small book.

If you locate him, please keep him in your sight and call 911.

On April 20^th, 2024, at about 12:48 p.m. Oregon City police officers responded to a report of a suspicious adult male at Jiffy Lube located at 13851 Beavercreek Rd. The same subject, later identified as 23-year-old Adonai Gabriel-Escamilla, had been called in as trespassing at the same location earlier in the day.  During the first incident, Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla ran through traffic, refused to stop, and officers were unable to locate him during a subsequent area check. 

When officers contacted Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla during the second incident, he produced a knife and attempted to stab an officer.  Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla again fled on foot and at one point entered a local business with customers inside, prompting a large police response.  Attempts were made to close traffic to contain Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla and to protect bystanders.  Officers further pursued Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla, who ultimately dropped the knife and was arrested. 

Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The Clackamas County Major Crimes team has been activated to investigate the incident.  Mr. Gabriel-Escamilla is expected to be lodged at the Clackamas County Jail once medically discharged for attempted aggravated murder of a police officer and additional charges.   

During the incident, OCPD officers were assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and the Gladstone Police Department. 

Investigators are encouraging anyone who has video of the incident to call the Oregon City Police Tip line at 503-905-3505.  Please reference OCPD case number #24-007805.

UPDATE - Photo added of Sgt. OJ Johnson with Roman Santos. 

The following statement was provided at this evening's news conference in Eugene. 

Captain Kyle Kennedy, Oregon State Police

I want to start by sending our heartfelt support to the community in West Richland, Washington, a community dealing with senseless tragedy. My prayer is their community will come together to provide support and strength during this grievous time.

The conclusion of this search has been the culmination of the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement partners in Washington and Oregon, as well as federal contributors. Since the start, our goal has been simple—to bring Roman Santos home safely. We did it. Roman is in the care of Oregon officials.

Last evening, the Oregon State Police issued an AMBER Alert at approximately 11:35 p.m. at the request of the Washington State Patrol. This AMBER alert was in response to the murder of two women in West Richland, Washington, and the kidnapping of a 1-year-old infant - Roman Santos.  The suspect in these murders and kidnapping was identified as Elias Huizar. The suspect was reportedly driving a 2009 Toyota Corolla with Washington plates.

Today, at approximately 2:40 p.m., Oregon State Police troopers were observing Interstate 5 for the suspect when he located the vehicle southbound near milepost 221. OSP initiated a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle fled southbound. Two troopers engaged in a pursuit with the suspect vehicle at high speeds heading southbound.

Near milepost 209, there was a minor collision and the suspect vehicle lost control. An exchange of gunfire occurred prior to the vehicle fleeing again southbound. No known injuries occurred as a result of the gunfire.

Near milepost 197, the suspect crashed into a stopped CMV and stopped in the median. As troopers contacted the suspect vehicle, he was deceased of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The infant was located uninjured and removed from the vehicle.

Involved in the exchange of gunfire, was Superintendent Casey Codding and Sergeant Orly Johnson of the Oregon State Police.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office has been asked to lead the investigation.

We are very proud of the efforts of the troopers involved in this pursuit today. Their dedication and courage are a hallmark of the character of an Oregon State Trooper. Their efforts today were paramount in bringing Roman home safely.

I want to thank our partners:

WASHINGTON: Kennewick PD, Paso PD, Richland PD, Prosser PD, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, Benton Fire Districts 1 and 4, FBI, US Marshal’s, Fish and Wildlife

OREGON: PPB, OSP, Hillsboro, and Portland FBI.                     

PURSUIT: OSP, Linn County Sheriff's Office    

ON SCENE: Lane County Sheriff's Office, Eugene Police Department, Coburg Police Department

MALHEUR COUNTY, Ore. 24 April 2024 – On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 4:25 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 20 near milepost 235 in Malheur County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a maroon Chevrolet Trailblazer, operated by Hunter Brucker (22) of Redmond, was traveling eastbound when it entered the westbound lane to pass an eastbound commercial motor vehicle. A westbound Ford Maverick, operated by a 17-year-old male, swerved onto the westbound shoulder to avoid a collision with the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet also swerved onto the westbound shoulder and collided with the Ford Maverick. 

The driver of a Ford Maverick (a 17-year-old male) was pronounced deceased at the scene. A juvenile passenger (a 13-year-old female) was transported by helicopter to an area hospital with reportedly serious injuries. 

The driver of the Chevrolet (Brucker) sustained minor injuries and was not transported for medical care. 

The investigation into the crash is ongoing. 

OSP was assisted by the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, Treasure Valley Paramedics, Vale Fire and Ambulance, Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. 

# # #

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

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. 24 April 2024 – On Monday, April 22, 2024, at 5:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 101 near milepost 143 within the Newport city limits. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo was driving southbound on Hwy. 101 when it crossed the middle lane into the northbound lane for unknown reasons and collided with a white Honda Odyssey. 

The driver of the Chevrolet, Heidi Fay Rock (74) of Waldport, was transported to a local hospital where she later died from injuries sustained during the crash. 

The driver of the Honda, Celeste Diana Paulson (38) of Newport, and two juvenile passengers (a 6-year-old and a 4-month-old) were transported to a local hospital with reportedly minor injuries. 

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours. 

OSP was assisted by the Newport Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. 

# # #

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

UPDATE

OSP is setting up to stream the news conference on Facebook and will send a news release following the news conference. 

Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/OSPsocial/

OSP News Conference regarding AMBER Alert suspect from Washington

Date: April 23, 2024 at 6 p.m. 

Location: Public Safety Building, Harris Hall, 125 E 8th Ave., Eugene, OR 97401

Media may begin staging at 5:45 p.m. for the 6 p.m. news conference. OSP will provide an overview of the incident. It's uncertain whether OSP will take any questions at that time. 

Douglas County, Ore. 19 Apr. 24- On Friday, April 19, 2024, at 7:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 146, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Jaguar F-Pace, operated by Paul William Jordison (23) of Rochester (WA), veered off the right-hand shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The Jaguar left the roadway, traveled airborne for approximately 100 feet down an embankment, and struck a tree approximately 15 feet above the ground level before falling to the base of the tree.

The operator (Jordison) was declared deceased at the scene.

Before the crash, the Jaguar was reportedly driving at high speeds.

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

OSP was assisted by North Douglas County Fire and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Wildfire Preparedness Weekend at World Forestry Center | April 27-28, 2024 | 9 am – 4 pm | Free Admission

As wildfire season approaches, Oregonians must take steps to protect their homes and communities. To help residents prepare, the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Portland Fire and Rescue, and World Forestry Center have partnered together to host a Wildfire Preparedness Weekend at the Discovery Museum on April 27 and 28 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. This event offers residents a unique opportunity to learn how to reduce the risk of wildfires around their homes and communities and get involved in protecting our state from the threat of wildfires. Attendees can access expert speakers, interactive exhibits, and hands-on demonstrations. Admission is free for the whole event thanks to our sponsor, Portland General Electric. Learn more at worldforestry.org/wildfire-preparedness-weekend.

Portland Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a commercial fire located in the Overlook Neighborhood of North Portland at about 10:15am this morning.  The approximately 10,000 square foot building housed an automotive repair shop in one half and a space that was currently vacant in the other half. 

The first arriving truck company reported brown smoke coming from the garage bay door and as they were attempting to make entry realized the smoke was under significant pressure. At about that same time the first engine company and Chief Officer were arriving, and it was determined that the building needed to be ventilated prior to entry and a defensive fire attack was initiated. Due to the size of the building and the dangerous smoke conditions Command also called for a 2^nd alarm at this time.

This was a warehouse style building with very few windows and the fire yet to breach the roof, so it was determined that a large hole needed to be cut in the roof to provide pressure relief and allow firefighters to make entry to find and extinguish the fire. While the vertical ventilation was being done on the roof firefighters on the ground were preparing to make entry by forcing open locked doors but keeping them closed and preparing to cut holes in the large bay doors while also preparing hose lines for an offensive fire attack.

Once the hole was cut in the roof the dangerous smoke conditions quickly improved allowing for an offensive fire attack.  Crews entered the building, quickly found and extinguished the fire and the fire was recalled about 30 minutes after the initial call.  A few crews remained on scene after the recall to assist in ventilating the building and to continue to look for hot spots.   

No injuries were reported.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: April 26, 2024

Salem man arrested in child sex abuse case

Salem, Ore. — A Salem man is in custody in Illinois on child sex abuse charges stemming from an incident earlier this month at a northeast Salem business.

Jason Patrick Mikel, age 28, was arrested Thursday, April 25, as part of an investigation into the sexual abuse of a small child at a variety store in the 2700 block of Lancaster DR NE on the evening of April 1, 2024.

The child’s mother reported that while shopping, she lost sight of her daughter and found the three-year-old in Mikel’s arms. The mother confronted the unknown suspect, who put the child down and fled the store. Through a forensic interview conducted by Liberty House, a child abuse assessment center, Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit detectives learned the child had been harmed in the encounter.

Investigators identified Mikel as the suspect and presented their findings to a Marion County Grand Jury on April 19. Mikel was indicted on the following charges:

• Attempted unlawful sexual penetration, first-degree
• Sex abuse, first-degree
• Attempted kidnapping, first-degree

Through the course of the investigation, detectives determined Mikel fled Oregon to the village of Minooka, a small suburb of Chicago, Illinois. With assistance from the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office Proactive Unit, and the Minooka Police and Channahon Police Departments, Mikel was arrested without incident. He is currently lodged at the Grundy County Jail and awaits extradition to Oregon.

Salem Police thanks the FBI, the deputies of the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, and the police officers from the communities of Minooka and Channahon for their assistance in apprehending Mikel. 

Gratitude is also extended to the staff of Liberty House. The organization is an essential partner in law enforcement’s work to investigate and bring justice to the most vulnerable of our community. We invite residents to learn more about the organization’s work and resources.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: April 25, 2024

Man arrested in domestic assault, kidnapping case

Salem, Ore. — Early this morning, a Salem man was arrested today in northeast Salem as part of a domestic assault and kidnapping investigation. 

Agustin Caldaza Sierra, age 25 of Salem, was sought in an incident that occurred on April 18 in which he assaulted a former girlfriend, then forced her and her children into his vehicle. The woman reported being able to escape from the vehicle as the suspect drove. The children were later found safe, however, the suspect fled. 

Through the investigation, detectives located Sierra and arrested him without incident at an apartment in the 4100 block of Satter DR NE.

Sierra is lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Kidnaping in the first degree, three counts
• Strangulation
• Burglary in the first degree
• Menacing
• Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle
• Coercion
• Assault in the fourth degree
• Harassment
• Custodial interference
• Stalking

All further inquiries into this investigation should be directed to Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

If you know of someone experiencing domestic abuse, reach out to a victim advocate with the Salem Police Domestic Violence Response Team for information and connection to helpful resources in our community. Call 503-588-6499 or find more information online.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: April 24, 2024

Early morning collision results in motorcyclist fatality

Salem, Ore. — The 4300 block of Commercial ST SE was closed this morning for the investigation of a traffic collision resulting in the death of a motorcyclist.

Just after 7:00 a.m. today, multiple callers reported a collision between a car and motorcycle. Passersby stopped and acted quickly to render aid to the injured motorcyclist along with help from a Salem police officer. Ultimately, the rider was pronounced deceased by paramedics.

The preliminary investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team indicated that a sedan traveling southbound on Commercial ST initiated a turn east into the parking lot of a business when the motorcycle rider collided into the car.

The motorcyclist is identified as Zachary Hendrickson, age 32, of Salem. The driver of the car, Shannon Evans, age 54 and also of Salem, remained on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

Commercial ST between Hilfiker LN and 12^th ST Cutoff was closed for approximately three-and-a-half hours for the scene investigation.

There is no further information available at this time, including that of citations or arrest, as the incident remains an active investigation.

This morning’s traffic fatality is the tenth to occur in Salem since the start of the year.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: April 24, 2024

Local man arrested, guns and drugs seized

Salem, Ore. — A 35-year-old Salem man was arrested yesterday afternoon on gun and drug possession charges.

Daniel Ralph Northcutt was arrested at a hotel in the 3300 block of Astoria WY NE at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Officers observed Northcutt in the area when he then fled into the hotel. 

Initially, Northcutt refused to exit the room but subsequently surrendered without incident. A search warrant was obtained for Northcutt’s rented room and his vehicle in the parking lot of the business. Seized in the search were two firearms, a handgun and a sawed-off shotgun, as well as 1.5 ounces and 50 pills of a drug suspected to be fentanyl and $1,000 in cash.

Northcutt, who also has outstanding warrants in other cases, is lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Felon in possession of a firearm, two counts
• Unlawful possession of a short-barreled firearm
• Unlawful possession of a Schedule II controlled substance
• Unlawful delivery of a Schedule II controlled substance

Given Northcutt’s in-custody status, all further media inquiries concerning this investigation should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

SW Polk Fire District was on the scene of a barn fire at 10725 Briedwell Rd.  The barn was fully involved at the time of arrival of the first engines.  Crews were able to get quick control of the fire.  SW Polk Fire District would like to thank Dallas Fire and Polk County Fire District #1 for their assistance with this fire.  The fire is currently under investigation.

On April 23, 2024, at 3:45pm, Vancouver Fire Department was called for a house fire at 100 S Knoxville Way. As the crews were on their way, reports were coming in that significant amount of fire was showing from the back of the house.

Crews arrived minutes later to find a single-story house with flames showing from the front and back of the house. Due to the amount of fire showing, Firefighters initially stretched hose lines to the front of the house to apply water from the outside. Once the outside fire was under control, crews moved inside to attack the fire that was in the attic and search for anyone still inside. In approximately 15 minutes reports came back that everyone made it out safely and crews were getting control of the fire.

Four fire engines, two ladder trucks, one squad and to Battalion chiefs for a total of 24 firefighter responded to the scene. There were no injuries reported and there were two people displaced from their home. 
 

The fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal.  

Vancouver, Wash. – The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Vancouver Police Department, is continuing the Independent Investigation of the officer-involved use of force incident involving deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office on April 13, 2024, at the American Legion located at 14011 NE 20th Avenue.

The firearm recovered near Benjamin Woods will be sent to the Washington State Patrol for testing, the results are pending. The final report from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office is also pending. 

Detectives from the SWIIRT, which included Detectives from the Camas Police Department, have conducted over 50 witness interviews of people who were inside the American Legion playing bingo, plus staff who were present that day. 

The investigation is continuing and once completed, the case will be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. 

Additional information will be released as it is available and will be sent out in a media release.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Vancouver Police Department, is continuing the investigation of the officer involved shooting that occurred on February 20, 2024, involving deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Results of DNA and firearms analysis are still pending from the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab. 

Investigators are finalizing their reports and those case files have been forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
 

Additional information will be released as it becomes available. 

###

Vancouver, Wash. – A jury has reached a verdict of not guilty in the criminal trial against Vancouver Police Officer Andrea Mendoza arising from of a May 21, 2023, use of force incident. Following the incident, the Police Department opened an internal investigation, which was subsequently paused pending the outcome of the trial in the criminal case.  

With the conclusion of the trial, the Vancouver Police Department Professional Standards Unit will now resume the internal investigation. The City and Vancouver Police Department will not be commenting on the active internal investigation. Officer Mendoza remains on administrative leave.  

The City of Vancouver Police Department is committed to serving the public with professionalism, compassion, and respect.    

###

On the evening of April 24^th, 2024, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office responded to a complaint of multiple people being shot during a disturbance in the 4400 block of SE Riverside Loop, rural McMinnville.  The caller reported hearing what sounded like a .22 caliber gunshot and multiple people yelling that someone may have been shot in the head.  A coordinated active shooter response was implemented by the Sheriff’s Office along with McMinnville Police Department, Yamhill Police Department, Carlton Police Department, and McMinnville Fire and EMS. 

Upon arrival, law enforcement detained multiple people on the property.  The preliminary investigation suggests an adult male shot an adult female victim in the back of the head and then later turned the weapon on himself and sustained injuries.  The weapon was found by Yamhill County Search and Rescue after an evidence ground search in a field adjacent to the residence.  The weapon involved in the incident is a hand-pump pellet gun.   

The investigation was turned over to the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit who have determined the incident is a domestic violence related event between family/household members.  There were multiple assaults committed, including the shooting incident, as well as an assault where an individual was struck in the head with a piece of lumber. Amy Morgan, age 60, was arrested and lodged in the Yamhill County Jail for Assault 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) and Assault 4^th Degree.   

The female victim of the shooting was transported to an area hospital for treatment.  The adult male believed to be responsible for the shooting was initially ground transported to a local hospital, and then air-lifted to a trauma center for medical treatment.

This case remains under investigation by the Yamhill County Special Investigations Unit and additional arrests are expected.  “This case is yet another reminder that household and family violence is a significant problem in Yamhill County.  I would like to thank our local partners who responded to assist with this incident, and the amazing staff from the Yamhill County Crime Victim Advocates who will continue to support the victims of this incident, and other criminal events in Yamhill County.”-Sheriff Elliott

                                                                                                                                                                       Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

MEDIA ADVISORY:

 Drive Electric Earth Month event 

Join us at the FREE Electric Vehicle Test Drive and Information Expo hosted by the Oregon Electric Vehicles Association.

Pacific Power is sponsoring and participating in the Drive Electric Earth Month event that features indoor and outdoor rides in electric vehicles.

Stop by the Pacific Power booth to get all your EV questions answered. Meet our EV experts to learn more about electric vehicle ownership topics, such as EV adoption, charging, technology trends and rebates available for businesses and residential customers.

Now is the perfect time to go electric! Discover federal, state and local incentives available for electric vehicle adoption, learn about the growing charging infrastructure in our region, and check out the wide range of EVs available. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

PORTLAND, OR (April 26, 2024) - PacifiCorp became the first entity in the Western United States to formally commit to a regional coordinated energy market by signing an implementation agreement this week with the California ISO for its Extended Day-Ahead Market (EDAM).

The EDAM is a voluntary day-ahead electricity market designed to deliver significant reliability, economic, and environmental benefits to balancing areas and utilities throughout the West. Tariff changes allowing the EDAM were approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in December 2023, and the market is on track to become operational in 2026.

PacifiCorp, a Portland-based grid operator that serves customers in California, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, was also the first to publicly announce its intent to join the EDAM in December 2022 to expand on benefits it currently realizes from participation in the ISO’s real-time Western Energy Imbalance Market (WEIM).

“We are excited to formalize our agreement to become a participant in the EDAM,” said Cindy Crane, chief executive officer for PacifiCorp. “A modern, coordinated day-ahead market in the West is vital to optimizing the region’s energy resources so we can continue to provide reliable and affordable power to our 2 million electricity customers across six states.”

“The momentum we are seeing for participation in the EDAM is very encouraging, and PacifiCorp’s formal commitment brings better definition to the vision of a regional day-ahead electricity market,” said Elliot Mainzer, president and CEO of the ISO. “This is a major piece of a truly collaborative effort to support reliability and affordability for electricity customers by leveraging resource diversity and transmission connectivity across the footprint of the Western grid. We now look forward to continue working with additional valued partners in the West to take the next steps in a fully integrated regional market.”

The WEIM is a real-time energy market that was established by PacifiCorp and the ISO in 2014. It has produced more than $5.6 billion in cumulative economic efficiencies and enhanced reliability by leveraging transmission connectivity and resource diversity across a broad geographical footprint covering 22 entities in 11 states. The market now represents 79 percent of the electricity load in the Western Interconnection. 

WEIM participation has delivered more than $745 million in savings to PacifiCorp customers. 

The WEIM optimizes the energy imbalances throughout the West by transferring energy between participants in 15-minute and 5-minute intervals throughout the day. The proposed EDAM builds on this real-time market by expanding to a high volume of resource commitments made a day in advance, unlocking far greater market efficiencies and value.

The PacifiCorp implementation agreement is a provision of the ISO tariff, and became effective upon signing of both parties on April 25. PacifiCorp is expected to begin participation in the EDAM in spring 2026.

Currently, four entities have informed the ISO of their interest in joining the EDAM: PacifiCorp, Balancing Authority of Northern California, Portland General Electric, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power. A fifth entity, Idaho Power has indicated it is leaning toward the EDAM as its preferred day-ahead market.

For more information, visit the newly launched EDAM webpage on the westerneim.com website.

# # #

Salem, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard’s Biak Training Center, in Powell Butte, is scheduled to host active-duty Army rotary wing night training missions, outside of normal operations hours over April 24-29, 2024. The visiting unit is located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in Tacoma, Washington.

Army rotary wing aircraft are scheduled to conduct intermittent nighttime air operations at Biak’s

Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) training site in order to maintain pilot and crew proficiency necessary to support real world military operations. 

“Night training missions are a critical component for pilots to maintain their readiness for real-world missions,” said Michael Paul, Biak Training Area Manager. “We understand that this type of training can be disruptive to the local community and appreciate their support for mission readiness.”

Night flying operations will occur from sundown until approximately midnight and may include low-level flying and refueling stops at the Redmond Airport.

Information regarding Biak Training Center may be found on the Oregon Military Department website at https://www.oregon.gov/omd/programs/Pages/Biak-Training-Center.aspx

-30-
 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 10:00 AM on Monday, May 6, 2024, in the Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258 or .howald@dpsst.oregon.gov">jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST

Agenda Items 

1. Introductions

2. Ineligibility Periods
    Carried over from March 30, 2024

3. Recent Legislation and Current Practices
    Carried over from January 29, 2024 & March 30, 2024

4. Administrative Closure Criteria

5. Policy Committee Case Review Processes

6. Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD

Administrative Statement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting is being streamed live on the DPSST YouTube page and will be recorded in the form of minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. Please be mindful of comments and side conversations.

Salem, Oregon – Next week, 18-year-old Katie Lineburg of Hillsboro will embark on the greatest adventure of her lifetime. As Oregon’s 2024 champion, Lineburg will travel to Washington D.C. to compete in the Poetry Out Loud National Competition on Wednesday, May 1. Her D.C. itinerary also includes meetings with Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and Sen. Jeff Merkley.

“I am so filled with thankfulness, anticipation and awe as I prepare for my trip to Washington D.C.,” said Lineburg. “This experience has been such a whirlwind of blessing, growth and new opportunities, and I will forever be grateful for the chance to represent my home state of Oregon as well as my school and everyone who has made this adventure of a lifetime possible as I compete at Poetry Out Loud nationals.”

A senior from St. Stephen’s Academy, Lineburg will compete in the national semifinals from 2 to 5 p.m. (PDT) on Wednesday, May 1. The competition will be live-streamed on the National Endowment for the Arts website. The top nine students will advance to the national finals at 4 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 2, also to be live-streamed.

Lineburg is the oldest of five siblings who loves music and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the St. Stephen’s Academy Festival Choir and loves poetry because “it allows her to connect with people and express emotions in a deeper way.” She has also loved public speaking since a very young age.

“The reading of poetry can transform the written word into a deeply felt shared experience,” said First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the Poetry Out Loud State Contest on March 9 at Salem Public Library. 

“Poetry Out Loud is a wonderful program that allows young people to connect with the human experience through the power of words,” First Lady Kotek Wilson added. “Congratulations to Katie Lineburg for representing Oregon in the national competition. We are all rooting for you!”

The poems Lineburg will perform for the national competition are "The Pulley" by George Herbert, "Beginning" by James Wright and “A Noiseless Spiker” by Walt Whitman.

Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation contest for high school students, organized in Oregon by the Oregon Arts Commission in collaboration with the NEA and the Poetry Foundation. Participants memorize and present poems, practicing public speaking skills while exploring the complexity of poetry.

See video of Lineburg performing and being announced as Oregon’s champion.

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

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

WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for the emergency management community this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.

WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.

WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.

WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Today, April 23

WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon

OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program

SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn

ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival

WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for 500 emergency management professionals this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.

WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.

WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Tuesday, April 23

WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon

WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.

OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program

SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn

ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival

Salem, OR – It’s a day to remember those who died on the job. It’s a day to grieve with families, friends, and communities. It’s a day to renew our responsibility to create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces for all workers in Oregon.

Oregon workers who died on the job will be honored with a ceremony at noon Friday, April 26, in Salem. The Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) – part of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) – and Oregon AFL-CIO invite all Oregonians to attend the Workers Memorial Day observance.

The event will take place at the Fallen Workers Memorial outside the Labor and Industries Building, 350 Winter St. NE, on the Capitol Mall. The memorial service, coordinated by Oregon AFL-CIO, will feature remarks from union leaders, safety and health advocates, and elected officials.

“Every day, people across Oregon leave their homes and go to work to provide for themselves and their families – and to help make the state a thriving place to live,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Today, we honor the Oregonians whose lives were tragically lost doing their job and offer our deepest condolences to their families. Going forward, we will continue our efforts to make working conditions safer, so all workers are better protected.”

During the ceremony, Sen. Deb Patterson and House Majority Leader Ben Bowman will read the names of Oregon workers who died on the job in 2023.

Oregon OSHA Administrator Renée Stapleton and Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor will serve as event speakers. The event will also include remarks from PCUN Representative Liz Marquez Gutierrez and a reading of Gov. Kotek’s proclamation by Vince Porter, the governor’s deputy chief of staff for public administration. 

Oregon workplaces are safer and healthier today than in previous decades. Yet, there are still far too many preventable on-the-job deaths each year. 

“Every worker and their family deserves to know, without question, that they will return home safely at the end of a shift,” Trainor said. “This year, we read the names of 56 fallen workers, which is an increase from last year and the absolutely starkest reminder that workplace safety must be taken seriously. Oregon unions will advocate for safety improvements on the job until there are no names to be read aloud on Workers Memorial Day. This is our most critical mission, and, while we’ve made significant progress, we must always strive for perfection when it comes to keeping working people safe on the job.” 

Through a partnership of labor, business, and government working together to bolster workplace safety and health, Oregon’s fatality and injury and illness rates have steadily declined for decades.

Nevertheless, there is room for improvement.

“As we honor the memories of the lives tragically taken from us, we must also summon our courage, skill, and ethical duty to rekindle our commitment to protecting the safety and health of all workers in Oregon,” Stapleton said. “Everyone who plays a role in the safety and health of Oregon workplaces – employers, managers, safety and health professionals, employees, co-workers – must do this with urgency and clarity. Through our actions and words, we must carry the message forward that workers have an indisputable right to a safe and healthy workplace and that employers are obligated – not just legally, but morally – to protect their workers from harm.”

The annual Workers Memorial Day serves as a nationwide day of remembrance. The observance is traditionally held on April 28 because the U.S. Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act on that date in 1970.

Resources are available to workers and employers to advance on-the-job safety and health in Oregon, including:

Oregon OSHA

• Rights and responsibilities
• Protect against retaliation 
• Keeping employees safe
• Education and training

DCBS Multicultural Communications Program

• Providing outreach to communities with limited English proficiency

Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers

• Independent advocate for Oregon workers, including guidance on workers’ rights and responsibilities in workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health

###

Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit Oregon OSHA. 

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit DCBS. 

The Oregon AFL-CIO is the statewide federation of affiliated unions, representing more than 300,000 working Oregonians.  For more information, visit Oregon AFL-CIO.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Richard L. Kerns, died the morning of April 25, 2024. Kerns was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla and passed away at the institution. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Kerns entered DOC custody on May 3, 2005, from Lane County with an earliest release date of February 14, 2030. Kerns was 86 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 adults in custody. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

####

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, James T. Birchard, passed away April 22, 2024. Birchard was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death. 

Birchard entered DOC custody on September 5, 1989, from Umatilla and Morrow Counties with no parole date. Birchard was 70 years old. 

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

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.

####

Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada — The Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement (NW Compact) is excited to announce the addition of the State of Hawaii as its newest member.

The NW Compact was created in 1998 and is one of eight forest fire fighting Compacts currently operating across North America. The purpose of the NW Compact is to promote effective prevention, suppression, and control of forest fires in the Northwest wildland region of the United States and Western areas of Canada. It provides an efficient way for member states, provinces, and territories to cope with wildland fires that might be beyond the capabilities of a single member agency, through information sharing, technology and resource distribution.

The NW Compact is operated by member states, provinces and territories, who include:

• Alberta
• Yukon Territory
• Saskatchewan
• Northwest Territories
• British Columbia
• Alaska
• Idaho
• Washington
• Oregon
• Montana

And now, Hawaii.

Despite being a sub-tropical island chain with lush tropical forests, wildfire in the State of Hawaii  is an increasing problem, especially with climate change affecting temperatures, rainfall patterns and extreme events like the powerful winds that led to the catastrophic fires in August 2023. In Hawaii, the proportion of land area burnt on an annual basis is comparable to that in western states.  

Hawaii also has a unique biota that evolved without the frequent occurrence of wildfire, which today is often fueled by land use changes and introduction of invasive species. The compact will be another way for Hawaii to address this increasing threat to its environment and communities.

Hawaii’s decision to join the NW compact was due to the need for additional firefighting resources in the state. The compact enables the exchange of resources with other compact members to improve wildfire response capacity in Hawaii.  It will allow Hawaii-based wildland firefighters to gain experience by assisting with wildland firefighting efforts on the North American continent while also allowing the state to call on assistance from other members in the compact, thereby benefiting all compact members.

WHEN: Wednesday morning, April 24, 2024

WHERE: Forest Grove and Cornelius, Oregon

WHAT: State agencies in Oregon and their local and federal partners are trying a two-pronged approach to slowing the spread of the destructive tree-killing insect pest emerald ash borer (EAB) in urban areas. The first involves felling and chipping ash trees already infested with the pest. The second involves treating healthy ash trees in good condition with a systemic insecticide to protect them from infestation. A third phase this fall will involve the planting of different tree species that are not at risk from EAB.

First Stop - Forest Grove: Matt Mills, Oregon Dept. of Agriculture’s Project Manager for the Slow Ash Mortality (SLAM) strategy will be on site and available for interviews as a contractor fells ash trees infested with emerald ash borer (EAB) and feeds debris into a chipper. 

TIME: 9:30 a.m. 

MEET AT: 1218 Emily Street, Forest Grove, Oregon (Park on Emily Street)

VISUALS: Workers with chainsaws felling ash street trees infested with EAB in a residential neighborhood and chipping the wood to destroy larvae. 

SOUNDS: Chainsaws, crashing noise as trees come down, grinding noise as debris is fed into chipper.

Second Stop – Cornelius:  Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s Urban Assistance Forester Alison Herrell  will be on site and available for interviews as she works with local officials to identify healthy urban ash trees that will later be treated later with an insecticide to protect them from EAB.

TIME: 10:45 a.m.

MEET AT: Intersection of Alpine Street and 23^rd, Cornelius, Oregon

VISUALS: Alison walking down residential street examining street trees, including measuring their size with a diameter tape and inspecting them for health and any signs of EAB. Alison will also have along the systemic injection equipment to demonstrate how it works to protect trees.

RSVP: Please let Public Affairs Officer Jim Gersbach know if you plan to attend one or both stops. He will be on site with local colleagues to help with interviews, filming and recording. 

                                                                    # # #

The new board will guide management of the nation’s largest research forest, shaping research, conservation, and economic outcomes 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of State Lands is accepting letters of interest for the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors. 

Ensuring accountability, transparency, and meaningful engagement is critical to establishing and operating the Elliott as a public research forest. In April 2024, the State Land Board approved a research forest oversight structure that includes appointment of an ESRF Board of Directors. 

The ESRF Board will guide management of the research forest, with authority to shape management, research, conservation, economic and social outcomes of relevance at the local, statewide, national, and international level.  

The ESRF Board will consist of seven or nine voting and one nonvoting member designated by the ESRF’s lead research entity. Voting members are appointed by the State Land Board. The DSL Director will review letters of interest and develop a list of candidates for State Land Board consideration at its June 11, 2024, meeting. 

Individuals interested in being considered for the ESRF Board should review the recruitment flyer and submit the required interest materials no later than Sunday, May 12, 2024. 

April 26, 2024

Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi meets with Portland Metro-area health leaders as part of regional tours

PORTLAND, Ore. — Sejal Hathi, M.D., MBA, director of Oregon Health Authority (OHA), deepened her engagement with Portland's health care community this week, visiting several key organizations including the Miracles Club, Virginia Garcia Wellness Center and Central City Concern.

Her visit is part of a broader, months-long state tour to identify and center the priorities of all Oregon communities in OHA’s strategic planning.

One of Dr. Hathi’s first stops was at the Miracles Club, a Measure 110 grantee that provides peer support and sober housing to Portland’s Black community.

“This is an organization exclusively dedicated to serving a population that has, for too long, gone unserved,” she observed. “They understand the judgment and  stigmatization this population faces. And still they carry that, and meet them where they are, by investing in peers with lived experience, by building relationships, and by intentionally fostering community, which we know is foundational to sustained recovery.”

Watch a video of what Dr. Hathi observed during her Portland visit. 

Discussions with leaders from local public health, mental health agencies, and Trillium Community Health Plan emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration across health services.

"We need to do a better job integrating health care with public health – across data systems, programs, and funding streams – to more effectively address the most pressing local needs around behavioral health, homelessness and poverty," Dr. Hathi said.

The following day, Dr. Hathi visited the Virginia Garcia Wellness Center, touring its facilities and a custom mobile clinic that delivers medical and dental care to community sites. She also participated in a roundtable discussion with the Oregon Primary Care Association about the challenges faced by federally qualified health centers delivering vital safety-net care amid workforce shortages.

Dr. Hathi's tour concluded at Central City Concern, which provides behavioral and physical health care to nearly 14,000 individuals in the Portland metro area toward a goal of ending homelessness. Dr. Hathi pointed to Central City Concern’s Mobile Health program, which uses custom-made vans to deliver primary care, behavioral health and community health outreach services to the unhoused population, as one of many examples of the “spirit of innovation” that first drew her to Oregon. But there’s more work to do.

“I know we can do more to support one another, to bridge our silos and to work together as county and state, to better serve vulnerable Oregonians, especially those grappling with behavioral health crises,” she said.

Dr. Hathi will spend the next month making the final few visits of her statewide listening tour – meeting with and talking to community leaders, health care providers, Tribal leaders, local public health officials, and non-profit partners about their biggest needs from the state and OHA – to ensure those needs are represented and addressed as she shapes the agency’s next chapter.

Here is a link to B-roll footage, an audio file and still pictures from Dr. Hathi's most recent trip

April 24, 2024

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, ica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">Erica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503-871-8843

Jake Sunderland, Oregon Department of Human Services,  land@odhs.oregon.gov">Jake.Sunderland@odhs.oregon.gov, 503-877-0170

One year after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, Oregon among top states keeping people covered

More than one million people are keeping their Oregon Health Plan benefits due to Oregon’s efforts to expand coverage options

SALEM, Ore. — With more than 90 percent of the state’s 1.5 million renewals complete, more than 4 out of 5 Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.

During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), which ended one year ago in April 2023, the federal government allowed states to keep people on Medicaid benefits. This ended when the pandemic emergency ended, so over the last year Oregon has been making sure everyone on OHP is still eligible.

At this point in the PHE unwinding process:

• Just 1,078 members, about 0.07 percent, still need to respond to renewal requests 9,573 members, about 0.65 percent, have responded to their renewal but are awaiting state action on the response.
• The remaining renewals, about 8.72 percent of the total, will occur over the summer.

Oregon’s 81.8 percent renewal rate continues to be the third highest in a national comparison of state renewal rates by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization. Oregon’s high renewal rates are due to proactive efforts by the state to keep people covered, including extended response timelines, and adding the upcoming OHP Bridge program for adults with higher incomes.

Members who have not received a renewal yet should:

• Keep their address and contact information up to date.
• Check their mail or ONE Online account for their renewal letter.
• Do what the renewal letter asks as soon as possible. Anyone concerned they missed their letter should get help with their renewal via one of the ways to find help listed below.
• Members who did not respond to renewals can still re-open their case three months after it closes if they are still eligible, and they can reapply at any time.

Although most people are keeping coverage, approximately 240,000 people will lose or have reduced medical benefits and need to consider other coverage options.

• People who do not have coverage through an employer or Medicare may be able to enroll through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and get financial help. Most people who enroll through HealthCare.gov qualify for this help.
• The Marketplace is sending information to people who are no longer eligible for OHP benefits, advising of other potential coverage options.
• People who have recently lost OHP benefits can enroll anytime until November 30, 2024, or within 60 days of their benefits ending.
• For more information and ways to get help signing up for Marketplace, Medicare, or employer coverage, see “What to do if OHP is ending” below.

Remaining renewals

On Feb. 13, 2024, the federal government approved a revised plan for Oregon’s remaining 126,000 post-pandemic renewals.

Many of these renewals were affected by a federal request for more than 30 states to review automated renewal processes or restorations of some Oregon Supplemental Income Program Medical (OSIPM) benefits. A May 2024 technical update to Oregon’s ONE Eligibility system  will enable Oregon to use the new automated  process  for the remaining renewals.

Renewal letters will be sent to members in four waves between June and September. Members will still have 90 days to respond, and 60 days’ advance notice before any termination or reduction in benefits. This means the final responses would be due in December 2024, and the final closures will happen in February 2025.

Data about pandemic unwinding renewals appears in the Medical Redeterminations Dashboard.  The dashboard data and these press releases will not include renewals for OHP members who have already renewed early in the unwinding process, who are coming up for renewal again. Over time, Oregon is switching to renewing most OHP members every two years instead of annually.

April OHP renewal data

As of March 19, 2024, 1,317,810 people have completed the renewal process. This represents 90.6 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members.

• 1,077,765 people (81.8 percent) were renewed and kept their benefits.
• 226,042 people (17.2 percent) were found ineligible.
• 14,003 people (1.1 percent) had a reduction in their benefits. Most of these members lost full OHP but were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs that help pay their Medicare costs.

Find help renewing your benefits

1. Learn more about how to renew your Oregon Health Plan medical coverage.
2. Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages. Wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m.
3. Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx.
4. Visit a community partner for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp (English) or orhim.info/ayuda(Spanish).

What to do if your OHP is ending:

• First, review the case summary in your letter to make sure the information used to make the decision was correct. If that information has changed, notify the state via one of the options above If the information on file for you is correct and you disagree with the decision, you can request a hearing. Learn more about hearings.
• Explore options through an employer. If you, your spouse, or a parent are working, you may be eligible for health coverage through that employer. Talk to your manager or Human Resources department to see if you qualify. You will have a special enrollment period to enroll mid-year due to loss of OHP benefits.
• If you have or are eligible for Medicare: For help understanding and choosing the right Medicare options, go to https://OregonHealthcare.gov/GetHelp to find an insurance agent or a counselor at the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA). You can also call SHIBA at 800-722-4134.

If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.

• Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians qualify for financial help through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop to answer a few quick questions, find out how much you can save and find out how much coverage may cost you. You can also call the Marketplace Transition Help Center at 833-699-6850 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted).
• Need free local help finding other coverage? Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find professional help near you.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians as the agencies continue to track the programs. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center.

###

April 23, 2024

Media Contact: Erica Heartquist, ica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">erica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503.871.8843

Report: As health care costs increase, Oregon patients are paying more in deductibles and copays

Oregon Health Authority furthers commitment to helping make healthcare more affordable across state

(PORTLAND, Ore. –) According to an Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report out today, the amount that Oregonians with commercial and Medicare Advantage insurance paid in deductibles, copays and co-insurance increased more than 17 percent from 2015 to 2022. As health care costs continue to grow, the amount that people with health insurance pay for their care – known as patient responsibility or patient cost sharing – is also rising.

On average, in 2022, people in Oregon with commercial health insurance were responsible for 13.4% of their total health care costs, and people with Medicare Advantage insurance were responsible for 9.1% of their total health care costs. This does not include how much people pay for their health insurance premiums.

Over the past several years, patient cost sharing increased by 17.4% for commercially insured Oregonians and 17.7% for those with Medicare Advantage insurance. That growth was driven primarily by increasing deductibles in the commercial market and co-insurance for prescription drugs in the Medicare Advantage market.

At least 28 percent of Oregonians were considered underinsured in 2021, meaning that even though they have health insurance, it was too expensive for them to use.

“Too many Oregonians are struggling to afford their health care, even as more than 95 percent of people in the state now have health coverage,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “This report provides more information about how much people in Oregon are paying for health care and the reasons for those cost increases. Health insurance should open the door to care, but instead, we know that even moderate increases in cost sharing can thwart access for those who need it most. OHA will continue to work both to rein in health care costs and to protect and expand access to care.”

What is Patient Cost Sharing?

When an individual or a household buys healthcare insurance, they agree to a certain set of arrangements for services are covered by the health plan and how much of the cost the health plan will pay. The portion of the cost of covered services that the patient is responsible for is “patient cost sharing.”

Unlike health insurance premiums, which are paid to the health plan whether any services are used or not, cost sharing only applies when services are used. Examples of patient cost sharing are deductibles, copays and co-insurance.

Report Findings

The report shows that people in Oregon with commercial health insurance paid for 13.6% of their total health care costs on average in 2022, with more than half of that going toward deductibles. Commercial deductibles grew 31.9% between 2015-2022, faster than the growth in commercial co-insurance (19.2%) and copays (4.3%).

This is in part due to the increase in number of people who have a high-deductible health plan. People with high deductible health plans are responsible for 22.9% of their total health care costs, even though their average annual health care costs were lower.

The report also shows that in 2022, people in Oregon with Medicare Advantage insurance paid 9.1% of their total health care costs, on average. More than 60 percent of Medicare Advantage cost sharing was in the form of copays and less than 5 percent was paid in deductibles.

In the commercial market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for professional services like a doctor’s visit. In the Medicare Advantage market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for prescription drugs, with people paying increasingly more in co-insurance for specialty drugs.

For More Information

OHA presented preliminary findings on patient cost sharing in an educational webinar in March. The recording from that webinar is available online here. View the patient cost sharing analysis webinar slides here.

The Cost Growth Target Advisory Committee meets each month to discuss and plan strategies for increased health care affordability.

Explore the patient cost sharing data in an interactive online dashboard and find the full patient cost sharing report online  here.

May 3, 2024

The next Housing Stability Council meeting will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, May 3, 2024. This will be a virtual meeting. You can find all relevant meeting materials on our website. The Housing Stability Council helps to lead OHCS to meet the housing and services needs of low- and moderate-income Oregonians by:

• Establishing and supporting OHCS’ strategic direction
• Fostering constructive partnerships across the state
• Setting policy and issue funding decisions
• Lending their unique expertise to the policy and program development of the agency

Register in advance for this meeting. Please note the new public hearing process:

Public comment is limited to council decisions on awarding loans, grants, or funding awards. Commenters will be allotted five (5) minutes per topic unless time is extended by the chair. (ORS 456.561)

In the event public hearing time expires and you are unable to speak or you have comments regarding another topic not related to the agenda items, please submit your comments in writing via ilityCouncil@hcs.oregon.gov">email or USPS.

To mail in comments, please use this address:

Oregon Housing and Community Services
Attn: Oregon Housing Stability Council Assistant
725 Summer St. NE Suite B
Salem, OR 97301​

AGENDA

9:00: Meeting Called to Order

9:05: Report of the Chair

9:15: Report of the Director

9:30: Housing Stabilization Division (pg. 4)
          Liz Weber, Interim Director of Housing Stabilization Division

• Youth Emergency Housing Assistance (YEHA): Judy Hui-Pasquini, Homeless Services Policy Strategist

10:00: Homeownership Division (pg. 12) 
            Keeble Giscombe, Director of Homeownership Division

• Public Hearing comments in accordance with ORS 456.561
• Homeownership Development NOFA Recommendations: Jessica MacKinnon, Senior Homeownership Development Program Analyst

10:30: 15-minute break

10:45: Affordable Rental Housing Division (pg. 28)
           Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Director of Affordable Rental Housing Division

• Public Hearing comments in accordance with ORS 456.561
• Transactions: Tai-Dunson Strane, Assistant Director Production
  • College View Apartments
  • Cypress Hills
  • MountainView Townhomes
• Renaissance Commons (f.k.a., REACH Argyle) Bond Refunding and Reissuance and Bond Charge Recommendations: Hattie Iott, Production Manager; Tai-Dunson Strane, Assistant Director Production
• Funding Resources & Set-asides Recommendation: Mitch Hannoosh, Senior Operations and Policy Analyst; Roberto Franco, Assistant Director Development Resources; Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Director
• Evaluation Standards Recommendation: Mitch Hannoosh, Senior Operations and Policy Analyst; Rick Ruzicka, Assistant Director Planning and Policy
• Construction Loan Guarantee Framework Recommendation: Mitch Hannoosh, Senior Operations and Policy Analyst

12:00: Meeting Adjourned

April 24, 2024

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), in partnership with Neighborhood Partnerships (NP), announce $11.5 million in funding to support the Individual Development Account Initiative statewide. 

An Individual Development Account (IDA) is a matched savings account, where the money participants save is multiplied up to five times by the program. As Oregonians face inflation and rising housing costs, IDAs provide a crucial resource for those with lower incomes to address financial needs such as down payment savings, higher-education costs, microenterprise investments, emergency savings, and investment in other wealth-building assets, supported by financial education and literacy. 

IDAs are offered by a statewide network of community organizations, housing authorities, schools, and colleges.

“The Oregon Individual Development Account Initiative serves as a powerful example of collaboration between state governments and community-based organizations to build more inclusive, resilient, and equitable communities across the state,” said Andrea Bell, OHCS executive director. “The additional investment underscores the state’s commitment to facilitate solutions that advance social and economic mobility.”

To date, the IDA program has empowered more than 17,000 Oregonians in 35 of the state's 36 counties, distributing $68 million in matching dollars to savers. Through its network of providers, the Initiative makes IDAs accessible to Oregon residents who have been excluded from opportunities to build lasting financial stability, including residents from Black, Native American, Latinx, and Asian communities throughout the state.

“As the longtime administrator of the Oregon IDA Initiative, Neighborhood Partnerships and our network of community-based partners are thrilled to receive an additional $5 million from the Legislature, which will be used by Oregonians with lower incomes to increase the power of their own savings to reach self-determined financial goals, including first-time homeownership, higher education, and entrepreneurship,” said Luke Bonham, IDA program manager.

This funding is being distributed through fiduciary organizations to aid Oregonians in achieving their financial goals through matched savings. The addition of $5 million in General Funds allows a two-phased funding approach in 2024-25 to help support the IDA Initiative’s continued growth and success. The approach aims to increase reach in underrepresented counties, graduate BIPOC savers at rates that promote racial equity in asset building.

For more information about the IDA Initiative and how to get involved, please visit https://oregonidainitiative.org/.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.  

24 de abril de 2024 

El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios junto a Neighborhood Partnerships anuncian que $11.5 millones apoyarán a ahorradores con una Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual   

SALEM, Ore. — El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregón (OHCS, por sus siglas en ingles), junto a Neighborhood Partnerships, anuncian que $11.5 millones serán destinados para apoyar la Iniciativa de Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual en el estado. 

Una Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual (IDA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una cuenta de ahorro igualada, en la que el dinero que ahorran los participantes es multiplicado hasta cinco veces por el programa. A medida que los habitantes de Oregón se enfrentan a la inflación y al aumento de los costos de la vivienda, las cuentas IDA constituyen un recurso crucial para que las personas con ingresos más bajos puedan hacer frente a necesidades financieras como el ahorro para el pago inicial para una vivienda, la educación superior, las inversiones en microempresas y el ahorro de emergencia, con el apoyo de la educación financiera. 

Los programas IDA son ofrecidos por una red estatal de organizaciones comunitarias, autoridades de vivienda, escuelas y universidades.

"La Iniciativa de Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual de Oregón sirve como un poderoso ejemplo de colaboración entre los gobiernos estatales y las organizaciones comunitaria para construir comunidades más inclusivas y equitativas en el estado", dijo Andrea Bell, directora ejecutiva de OHCS. "La inversión adicional muestra el compromiso del estado para facilitar soluciones que promuevan la movilidad social y económica". 

Hasta la fecha, el programa IDA ha apoyado a más de 17,000 residentes de Oregón en 35 de los 36 condados del estado, distribuyendo $68 millones en fondos igualados a los ahorradores. A través de su red de proveedores, la Iniciativa hace que las cuentas IDA sean accesibles a los residentes de Oregón que han sido excluidos de las oportunidades de construir una estabilidad financiera duradera, incluidos los residentes de las comunidades afroamericana, nativa americana, latina y asiática.

"Como administrador desde hace mucho tiempo de la Iniciativa IDA de Oregón, Neighborhood Partnerships y nuestra red de socios comunitarios están muy contentos de recibir $5 millones adicionales de la Legislatura, que serán utilizados por los residentes de Oregón con ingresos más bajos para aumentar el poder de sus propios ahorros para alcanzar sus objetivos financieros, incluyendo la compra de la primera vivienda, la educación superior y el convertirse en empresarias", dijo Luke Bonham, director del Programa IDA de Neighborhood Partnerships. 

Estos fondos se distribuyen a través de organizaciones fiduciarias para ayudar a los habitantes de Oregón a alcanzar sus objetivos financieros mediante ahorros igualadas. La adición de $5 millones en fondos generales permite un enfoque de financiación en dos fases en 2024-25 para ayudar a apoyar el crecimiento y el éxito continuo de la Iniciativa IDA. El enfoque tiene como objetivo aumentar el alcance del programa en los condados donde la participación es baja, y graduar a los ahorradores de comunidades de color a tasas que promuevan la equidad racial en la construcción de activos.

Para más información sobre la Iniciativa IDA y cómo participar, visite https://oregonidainitiative.org/. 

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS)   

OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

Salem, Ore. – Tucked away with a stack of other tickets in a Tupperware container was this year’s $1 million Raffle ticket. Leslie Carr, 52, of Portland claimed the prize on Monday after she brought her pile of tickets to the retailer where she buys them – the Fred Meyer in Happy Valley. 

“I had no idea I was the winner,” said Carr, who works as a medical receptionist. “If it weren’t for the billion dollar Powerball winner making news, I would have forgot. We don’t check our tickets.”

After scanning a few dozen tickets for other draw games in the store, the last one was the winning Raffle ticket, drawn on March 15. When the machine came up with a message that she needed to go an Oregon Lottery office, she asked a staff member at the store to double check. 

“I heard him say, ‘Oh, I can’t cash this because your prize is worth over $1,000,’” she said. “That’s when I started getting butterflies.” 

Carr plans to use the money to pay off the mortgage on the home she shares with her husband, calling it “a dream come true.” A new truck to replace the one she currently drives with a broken windshield is also on her wish list, along with a vacation to Hawaii. 

Carr said she regularly plays the annual Raffle and has never won. Prizes for the Raffle include the $1 million top prize, along with 300 prizes of $500, and 1,500 prizes of $100. The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game to win $1 million – 1 in 250,000. Overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 138.8. The Oregon Lottery’s Raffle game went on sale December 31, 2023, and all 250,000 tickets were sold out by March 8, 2024. 

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

JOHN DAY, Oregon— Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site welcomes visitors to its Interpretive Center and Museum for the 2024 season starting May 2. 

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

The Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday with tours of the museum running at the top of every hour, the last one beginning at 4 p.m. The Museum and Interpretive Center will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday through May and possibly into June due to staffing. 

The free, 45-minute museum tour begins at the Interpretive Center at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. Staff added a tour from noon to 1 p.m. this year to provide additional viewing opportunities. Space is limited to 8 people per tour. 

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

Even if you can't visit this heritage site in person, you can learn more about the history through these online resources:

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

PUC SEEKING PUBLIC COMMENT ON PACIFIC POWER’S 
PROPOSED RATE INCREASE
Spanish translation services available

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting a virtual event for the public to comment on Pacific Power’s general rate case filing that proposed an increase to electricity rates. This event, held Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. PDT, provides the opportunity to speak directly to the commissioners about the proposed rate increase. Customers may also submit comments in writing or by phone through June 14, 2024.

Pacific Power, which provides electric services to 627,000 Oregon customers, filed a request to increase overall revenues by $322.3 million or approximately 17.9% for all customer types combined. If approved, residential single-family customers using an average of 950 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month would see a bill increase of $30.66. For a residential customer in a multi-family home using an average of 650 kWh per month, bills would increase by $18.51. Actual percentage increases will vary depending on customer type and usage. 

Pacific Power’s proposed impacts for the different customer types due to the general rate case filing are noted in the chart below

 Pacific Power identifies several reasons driving the general rate case filing, including investments in transmission infrastructure, wind generation to serve customer load, upgrading the customer service system, increased costs of capital to reflect updated market conditions and risk, and wildfire and vegetation management related costs. The company also proposes an insurance cost adjustment and funding for a proposed catastrophic fire fund. 

Pacific Power’s general rate case filing is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of electricity customers by the PUC, the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, and others. This public comment event is part of that investigation, which will conclude in December when the Commissioners rule on the request. The Commissioners may approve or modify Pacific Power’s request and will only approve rate increases if fully justified by the company. New rates, if approved, are expected to go into effect January 1, 2025. 

In a separate filing, which would also go into effect January 1, 2025, Pacific Power proposed an update to its annual power costs, which is currently forecast to be a decrease in rates of about 1%.

Comment via Zoom or phone on April 30

When:        Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. PDT
This meeting may go beyond the scheduled end time to allow more people to comment, so please log in before 7 p.m. 

Access the Zoom link and phone-in details at: https://bit.ly/44bnMi6

Spanish translation services are available for community convenience at no cost. For those needing translation services, log into the Zoom platform and select English or Spanish on the bottom of the page. Translation services are not available for the meeting phone-in option.

Submit comments directly to the PUC by June 14, 2024

• Public Comment Form online
• email licComments@puc.oregon.gov">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov  
• Call 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (all relay calls accepted) 
• Mail comments to: Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – UE 433, PO Box 1088, Salem OR 97308-1088
   

Stay Informed

To stay informed throughout this case, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify Docket No. UE 433 in the request.

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

The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly hybrid meeting in Astoria and by Microsoft Teams on April 24, 2024. The Board approved policy options to include in the agency’s recommended budget and statewide boating facility grants.

Agency leadership discussed the 2025-2027 budget and policy development processes. The agency will focus on improving customer service and seeking approval to increase waterway access funding limitation to meet the volume of Waterway Access Grant requests.  

A total of seven facility grant applications were received for the agency’s Cycle 2 grant opportunity. The grant applications identified $2.6 million in project needs and applicants requested $1,547,500 from the agency’s funding for the 2023-2025 biennium. The Board conditionally approved the projects where Waterway Access Grant dollars were requested. The agency will be asking the E-Board for more spending limitation of available funds for the conditionally approved projects.

• Bend Park & Recreation District, Miller’s Landing: Install an accessible nonmotorized boat launch with a transfer bench, maneuver area, and a life jacket loaner station. The Board conditionally approved $300,000 in Waterway Access Grant funds combined with a cash match of $395,734 for a total project cost of $695,734.
  
   
• City of Tigard, Cook Park: Replace the 27-year-old wooden boarding docks with new aluminum boarding docks. The Board conditionally approved $51,465 in Waterway Access Grant funds and $22,035 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $388,700 of applicant match, for a total project cost of $462,200.
  
   
• Port of Bandon, Port Marina: Construct a restroom with stalls for the public and a shower room for marina users The Board conditionally approved $27,000 in Waterway Access Grant funds, $50,000 Boating Facility Grant funds, and $50,000 in federal Boating Infrastructure Grant funds, combined with $246,327.50 of applicant match for a total project cost of $351,596.50.
  
   
• Port of Columbia County, Scappoose Bay: Purchase one nonmotorized boat launching dock with a transfer bench, non-slip decking, and grab bars. The Board conditionally approved $65,000 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $100,000 of applicant match for a total project cost of $165,000.
  
   
• Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department, Mongold State Park: Replace and install self-adjusting boarding docks. The Board approved $103,125 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $494,375 of applicant match for a total project cost of $597,500.  
  
   
• Jackson County, Emigrant Lake West: Replace and install self-adjusting boarding docks. The Board approved $51,250 in Boating Facility Grant funds combined with $233,750 of applicant match for a total project cost of $285,000.00.
  
   
• City of St. Helens, Courthouse Docks: Repair the short-term tie-up docks and improve tie-up capabilities to maximize dock space and replace one section of the debris boom. The Board conditionally approved $61,000 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $139,000 of applicant match for a total project cost of $200,000. 

To view the meeting replay and materials, visit the Marine Board’s Public Meetings page. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto is seeking applicants for several open positions on the volunteer Animal Protection and Control Advisory Board. All the openings are for terms that begin immediately and end Oct. 31, 2027.

The positions are for Clark County residents that represent: 

• Cat owner, term 
• Veterinarian or veterinary technician
• No domestic animals
• Facility owner

Advisory board members meet quarterly at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month. Meetings are currently being held virtually using the Microsoft Teams platform. 

Functions of the 10-member board include:

• Reporting to the County Council at least once a year on general operations of the Animal Protection and Control Program
• Recommending potential changes to services modifications to code that will promote animal welfare and the most efficient animal services possible
• Acting as an appeals hearing tribunal on minor appeals of Notices of Violations
• Promoting the program, including its licensing of all dogs and cats.

Applications and a résumé can be mailed to Animal Protection and Control, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810 or emailed to d@clark.wa.gov">donna.goddard@clark.wa.gov. 

For more about the board or to download an application, please go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/animal-control-advisory-board. 

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024.

UPDATE: An error in Prairie Middle School's address has been corrected. The school is the in-person location for the open house.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is hosting an open house for residents to learn more about planned improvements to Northeast 179th Street between Northeast 15th and 26th avenues. The open house, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, will allow residents to learn more about the project and submit comments to project staff. 

The project will reconstruct the existing roadway to meet current road standards. This involves modifying the road’s vertical alignment (i.e., hills), widening the roadway, and adding curbs, gutters and a separate joint-use bike/pedestrian path on both sides. The road will initially include one travel lane in each direction and a center left-turn lane, and right turn lanes in some locations. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated to begin in fall 2028. 

At the open house, staff will share a presentation about the project from 6:30 to 7 p.m., with a question-and-answer session immediately following. The presentation and question session will also be streamed online via Webex. Before and after the presentation, attendees will be able to view informational displays and discuss the project with staff. Light refreshments will be provided. 

The in-person open house will be in the media room of Pleasant Valley Middle School at 14320 NE 50th Ave. Handouts translated into Russian, Ukrainian and Spanish will be provided. 

To participate online via Webex, residents can register on the project webpage. An email reminder with a one-click link to join the meeting will be sent to those who register. Registration is not required, and a link to join the meeting will be posted on the project webpage at least 10 minutes before the presentation begins. Presentation slides and handouts, and a recording of the presentation, will be posted to the project webpage within five business days after the open house. 

Residents can contact the project manager, Scott Sawyer, by emailing eetProject@clark.wa.gov">179thStreetProject@clark.wa.gov or calling 564.397.4364 to request interpretation or translation, or accommodations.

More information about the project can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-179th-street-northeast-15th-avenue-northeast-26th-avenue.

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. 

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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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is hosting an open house for residents to learn more about planned improvements to Northeast 179th Street between Northeast 15th and 26th avenues. The open house, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, will allow residents to learn more about the project and submit comments to project staff. 

The project will reconstruct the existing roadway to meet current road standards. This involves modifying the road’s vertical alignment (i.e., hills), widening the roadway, and adding curbs, gutters and a separate joint-use bike/pedestrian path on both sides. The road will initially include one travel lane in each direction and a center left-turn lane, and right turn lanes in some locations. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated to begin in fall 2028. 

At the open house, staff will share a presentation about the project from 6:30 to 7 p.m., with a question-and-answer session immediately following. The presentation and question session will also be streamed online via Webex. Before and after the presentation, attendees will be able to view informational displays and discuss the project with staff. Light refreshments will be provided. 

The in-person open house will be in the media room of Pleasant Valley Middle School at 14320 NE 50th St. Handouts translated into Russian, Ukrainian and Spanish will be provided. 

To participate online via Webex, residents can register on the project webpage. An email reminder with a one-click link to join the meeting will be sent to those who register. Registration is not required, and a link to join the meeting will be posted on the project webpage at least 10 minutes before the presentation begins. Presentation slides and handouts, and a recording of the presentation, will be posted to the project webpage within five business days after the open house. 

Residents can contact the project manager, Scott Sawyer, by emailing eetProject@clark.wa.gov">179thStreetProject@clark.wa.gov or calling 564.397.4364 to request interpretation or translation, or accommodations.

More information about the project can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-179th-street-northeast-15th-avenue-northeast-26th-avenue.

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. 

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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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will be re-opening the drive-through tax payment drop-off window for the last two days of the tax season.

The drive-through kiosk is located at the east parking structure entrance at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. The kiosk will be open from 9 am to 4 pm on Monday, April 29 and Tuesday, April 30.

The drive-through option is meant as a convenience and is for pre-written checks only. The Treasurer’s Office will not accept any other forms of payment at the kiosk.

In addition, a secured drop box is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. Taxpayers can seal their check payments into an envelope and leave them in the secured drop box during the hours of 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Taxpayers may pay property taxes online using a credit or debit card or from their checking or savings account. E-Checks (from a savings or checking account) are free. Debit card transactions are a flat rate of $3.95 and credit card transactions are assessed a 2.39% vendor fee.

To make a payment, go to www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options, or call 1.833.440.8685. To register to receive your tax statement electronically and manage your property taxes online, go to www.paydici.com/clark-county-wa/search/landing.

Tax payments can be mailed to the Clark County Treasurer, PO Box 35150, Seattle, WA 98124-5150. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the return envelope and payment coupon provided with their statement to mail their payments.

If in-person service is desired, the Joint Lobby is open Monday – Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm. The Treasurer’s office is available by phone and email Monday – Friday from 9 am to 4:30 pm by visiting clark.wa.gov/treasurer or calling 564.397.2252. Tax payments must be postmarked by Tuesday, April 30, 2024, to avoid interest charges.

Vancouver, Wash. – Deputy County Manager Amber Emery today announced that the county has selected long-time public defense attorney Christopher Swaby as the county’s first Director of Public Defense and Chief Public Defender. Christopher will join the county on July 1.

“Christopher is a known and respected leader across the state of Washington with more than three decades of litigation experience,” said Deputy County Manger Amber Emery. 

Swaby is on the board of the Washington Defender Association, a member of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Washington State Bar Association Council on Public Defense and the Washington State Bar Association Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. 

Christopher began his career in 1990 as a staff attorney for the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia. Christopher moved to eastern Washington in 2000, where he practiced on the felony defense panel in Benton County.  He moved to the Seattle area and joined the Defender Association (TDA) as a staff attorney in the felony division and was later promoted to felony division supervisor. Christopher left TDA in 2012 and joined a small boutique criminal defense firm. In 2015, he left the firm to start a solo criminal defense practice. He has represented clients in matters in Benton, Cowlitz, Franklin, Gray’s Harbor, Island, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, San Juan, Snohomish, Spokane, Thurston and Yakima counties.  

Christopher was born and raised in Washington, D.C. He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Virginia and a juris doctor from the Georgetown University of Law Center.

“The establishment of the new Public Defenders’ Office reflects Clark County’s ongoing commitment to fostering a justice system that is equitable and responsive to the needs of its residents,” said Swaby. “I am deeply committed to addressing the pressing issues facing public defense services in Clark County.”

The county council in November 2023 approved using American Recovery Plan Act funding to create the new Public Defense office. The county is process of transitioning away from a contract model to provide county staffed indigent defense services.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Permit Center has a new home within the Public Service Center. The Permit Center is now located on the third floor of the building which is located at 1300 Franklin St. in downtown Vancouver. The Permit Center had been located at the east end of the first floor since the opening of the PSC in 2003.

The move is one of several county office moves that are the result of recent space utilization planning efforts within the county.

The Permit Center handles permits for residential and commercial construction. All in-person services at the Permit Center require an appointment which can be scheduled by email at mitservicesappt@clark.wa.gov">permitservicesappt@clark.wa.gov. 

The Permit Center uses ePlan Review, an online permitting process. Learn more about the permitting process including average permit process times and contact information on the county website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-development/permit-center. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health’s offices will be closed on Tuesday, April 30 for an all-day staff training event. Online services will continue to be available.

Public Health’s online permitting portal enables people to submit new permit applications and renewals, upload required documents, review account activity, and make payments. Food worker testing continues to be available online. And people can place orders for birth and death certificates through the Public Health website. 

Public Health offices will resume regular hours on Wednesday, May 1. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is seeking community input to help plan for climate change through a series of activities throughout the year to inform the county’s new climate chapter for its comprehensive plan.

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 disproportionately suffer from the compounding environmental impacts and natural hazards due to climate change.

To start, members of the Clark County community are invited to complete a survey to share how they and their families have been affected by severe weather events and weather patterns. 

• The survey is available in multiple languages.
• Responses are requested by 5pm Sunday, May 12.
• Surveys are available online at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/climate-change-planning.
• Print copies may be requested by contacting 564.397.4968.

Feedback provided through the survey will inform the development of the resilience component of the climate chapter and what actions the county can take to prepare for and cope with future severe weather events and weather patterns. 

Community members will have additional opportunities to provide feedback on this project later in the year. The entire climate event series includes:

Resilience

• Spring 2024: Survey to collect community member experience and needs related to severe weather events and weather patterns. The survey will be available through May 12. 
• Early summer 2024: Community workshop to seek ideas about how to address climate resilience in the unincorporated county.

Pollution Reduction

• Late summer 2024: Survey to collect community member priorities on reducing greenhouse gas pollution in Clark County.
• Fall 2024: Community workshop seeking ideas about how to address greenhouse gas emissions reduction in the unincorporated county.

Adoption Process

• 2025: Residents will have the opportunity to submit comments or testify to the Planning Commission and County Council about the county’s proposed climate chapter for the Comprehensive Growth Management Plan.

To learn more about county climate planning, sign up for project updates, or submit a comment, 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.

Vancouver, Wash. – The board of the Clark County Public Facilities District will hold a public meeting 4-5 p.m. Monday, May 6, 2024.

The meeting will be on the Teams platform. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting can Click here to join the meeting and use the meeting password cRytQv or call +1.213.262.7043 and use the access code 392 970 465#. 

The Public Facilities District was formed in 2002 for the purpose of participating in the study, planning and development of one or more regional centers that would promote tourism, such as the convention center in downtown Vancouver and exhibition hall at the Clark County fairgrounds.

The five-member board is comprised of two people appointed by Clark County and two appointed by the city of Vancouver. Those four appoint the fifth member.

The board typically tries to meet on the first Monday of February, May, August and November. 

Vancouver, Wash. –  This Earth Day, Clark County Public Health is honoring environmental sustainability leaders in local K-12 schools and businesses with the 2024 Green Awards. The annual Green Awards highlight the accomplishments of individuals and organizations and celebrate their commitment to reducing harmful environmental impacts, educating others, and giving back to the community. 

This year’s awards recognize two local educators and three Green Businesses for their commitment to creating a healthy and sustainable culture in their communities. Winners will receive unique trophies crafted by students at Washougal High School and made entirely from recycled materials. 

The Clark County Green Schools and Green Business programs thank everyone who submitted an application for this year’s Green Awards and encourage applicants to apply again next year. 

Here are the 2024 Green Awards winners: 

Jennifer Baybado – Green Apple Award for an individual involved in school sustainability programs Jennifer Baybado is a third grade teacher at Sacajawea Elementary School in Vancouver who is a true sustainability champion in her school. She and her green team implement programs to help students reduce waste, properly recycle and compost their food scraps. She is taking the lead in creating an outdoor learning area with raised garden beds, work bin benches and outdoor seating for students to learn and grow. 

Linda Kubes – Green Apple Award for an individual involved in school sustainability programs 
Linda Kubes is a teaching assistant at the Washington State School for the Blind. Over the last few years, she has led the green team, otherwise known as the Green Beings, in completing sustainability projects around campus. Those projects include organizing litter clean ups, composting using worm bins, starting a school garden and improving recycling. Last year, Linda helped the Green Beings receive the 2023 Green Team of the Year Award. Student Charles Johnson perfectly describes Linda: “Ms. Linda sees the potential in all students who are part of the Green Beings and even though we may not all have perfect sight, she sees that we can all be part of a sustainable future.” 

Kindred Homestead Supply – Small Green Business of the Year (fewer than 25 employees) 
Kindred Homestead Supply is a beacon of sustainability for the Vancouver community. Offering more than just retail goods, it serves as a gathering point for those dedicated to conscious living. With thoughtfully stocked shelves full of eco-friendly home supplies and locally sourced products, Kindred echoes a commitment to reduce our collective environmental impact. They empower patrons with the tools and knowledge to embrace sustainable practices like waste reduction and composting through various community workshops and events. Inclusivity is at the core of their practices, inviting individuals from all walks of life to join the movement towards a greener, more connected world. Kindred Homestead Supply isn't just a store—it's a testament to the power of collective action in nurturing both the planet and the community. 

Jacobs – Large Green Business of the Year (more than 25 employees)  
In partnership with the city of Vancouver, Jacobs spearheads solutions in wastewater treatment and demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Through a blend of operational excellence and engineering ingenuity, they deliver cost-effective and award-winning utility services, ensuring regulatory compliance while prioritizing employee and community well-being. Jacobs' initiatives span waste reduction, energy conservation and water reuse, underpinned by a company-wide culture of sustainability. Their community outreach efforts, including educational tours and beach cleanups, inspire environmental awareness and inclusivity. Jacobs' dedication to sustainability sets a benchmark for the industry. 

Columbia Springs – Nonprofit Green Business of the Year 
Columbia Springs, a nonprofit organization in Vancouver, offers a remarkable 100-acre urban natural site that serves as an expansive outdoor classroom, drawing in thousands of students and community members annually. Through diverse educational programs, walking trails and events, Columbia Springs fosters a community of lifelong learners and land stewards. From the Salmon in the Classroom initiative to public events like guided hikes and nature fun days, Columbia Springs engages diverse audiences, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Additionally, their Repair Program exemplifies sustainability by repairing broken household items, thus reducing waste and fostering a sense of community around reuse practices. Through education, outreach and active stewardship, Columbia Springs serves as a vital local resource, empowering individuals to connect with nature and embrace sustainable living practices.

Visit the Green Business and Green Schools websites to learn more about these Clark County Public Health programs.

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County welcomes applications for one seat on the Ambulance Service Area Advisory Committee. The vacancy is for a citizen position with a three-year term.

The committee meets at least four times annually and monitors and reviews local emergency medical services in accordance with the county Ambulance Service Area Plan and Ambulance Franchise Agreement. 

The committee relies on information from service users, providers and the medical community, monitors coordination of service resources and dispatch procedures and reviews service area boundaries. 

Application forms are available at the Clatsop County website and at the County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2024.

The appointment will be made by the Board of Commissioners.

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(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County is welcoming applications for four open seats for a three-year position on the Human Services Advisory Council. 

The Human Services Advisory Council advises the Board of County Commissioners on developmental disabilities, mental health and alcohol and drug abuse services. 

The council meets the first Thursday of each month to identify needs, establish priorities for publicly funded services and assist in selection of service providers, evaluate services and provide a link to the public through advocacy and education. 

The deadline to apply is Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Application forms are available online at ClatsopCounty.gov or at the County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria. 

All applications will be reviewed by the Human Services Advisory Council and then brought to the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners for appointment.

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The Battle Ground City Council has appointed Kristina Swanson as the Interim City Manager, effective April 22, 2024. The appointment was made during the April 15 City Council meeting, following the resignation announcement from former City Manager Erin Erdman.  Erdman’s last day with the City of Battle Ground was April 19; she had accepted the City Manager position with the City of Kennewick, WA. 

Ms. Swanson has 33 years of public service experience, including being elected to five terms as County Auditor for Cowlitz County. Before joining us in Battle Ground, Ms. Swanson served with the City of Longview, WA, working her way up from Director of Administrative Services to the City Manager position.

The Interim City Manager will serve until a permanent City Manager is selected.  The City Council has approved a contract with Prothman, an executive recruitment firm, to conduct a nationwide search for Battle Ground’s next City Manager. The application period is currently open, with the first review scheduled to occur after May 26^th. 

In accordance with the city's adopted council-manager form of government, the City Manager is appointed by the council and serves as the city's chief administrator. 

GRESHAM, Ore. – On April 27 at 8 a.m., the City of Gresham is excited to host the sixth annual Gresham Lilac Run taking place at Main City Park, 219 South Main Avenue, Gresham. The Lilac Run, presented by Unitus Community Credit Union, consists of a five-kilometer, ten-kilometer, and half marathon course, taking participants through the Springwater Corridor, the Saddle Butte, and the Butler Creek Trail. The race also includes the Little Lilac Run for younger athletes. 

“The Lilac Run, which sells out every year, has quickly become one of Gresham’s most beloved events,” said Gresham Interim City Manager Eric Schmidt. “From the cleanup events that led up to the race to the festivities on the day of, it's a wonderful way to come together as a community and celebrate the beauty of Gresham.” 

Because of the event sponsorships, one hundred percent of the race proceeds will go directly to a local non-profit and the 2024 Lilac Run Beneficiary is Shooting Star Adventures. Their mission is to empower the community through outdoor recreational opportunities that cultivate teamwork, instill self-confidence and promote a strong connection to nature. Proceeds from the race will directly support their co-ed day camps in Gresham. 

It is important to remember that the Lilac Run is entirely sponsorship funded and without the generous support of many event sponsors, this event would not be possible. A special thank you to: 

• Presenting sponsor: Unitus Community Credit Union.
• Gold sponsor: Owens Corning Gresham.
• Bronze sponsors: Migration Brewing, Marathon Printing, Inc., Cascade Physical Therapy, State Farm Insurance, and Country Coffee Hitched Up. 
• Aid station sponsors: Eastwind Running and Endurance Club, Metro East Web Academy. 
• Partner sponsors: Rock Haven Climbing Gym, Country Coffee Gresham, and Natural Grocers. 

Registration for the 2025 Gresham Lilac Run will begin in the fall. Please visit GreshamOregon.gov/Lilac-Run for registration updates, beneficiary applications and sponsorship opportunities.  

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham. 

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GRESHAM, Ore. - Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall will present Congressman Earl Blumenauer with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gresham State of the City event on Tuesday, April 23, from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Gresham Armory, 544 NE Division St., Gresham.

Gresham’s Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates exceptional commitment to public service and significant contributions to community betterment. The award honors dedication, innovation and leadership. Congressman Earl Blumenauer, with over 50 years of continuous service across various levels of government, is the epitome of such dedication. His visionary policies and tireless advocacy have played a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of countless Oregonians and Americans.

“Over his decades of service, Congressman Earl Blumenauer has consistently exemplified a rare blend of vision, effectiveness, and integrity,” said Gresham Mayor Stovall. “His forward-thinking policies have not only shaped Portland, and beyond but have left a lasting impact on communities nationwide. From pioneering curbside recycling to advocating for sustainable transportation, Earl's contributions are not merely legislative milestones; they are the building blocks of a better, more sustainable future. His dedication reminds us all what it means to serve with purpose and passion.”

Preceding the award ceremony, Mayor Stovall will provide a brief “State of the City” recap of Gresham’s success in the areas of economic development, public safety, parks and recreation, and youth violence prevention, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead.

This ticketed event is co-hosted with the Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce. It is sold out; however, members of the news media are welcome to attend.

The Portland Office of Violence Prevention is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Safer Portland Grant to help reduce gun violence through community-based prevention efforts.

A total of $500,000 is available. Grant awards will be up to $100,000 and may vary based on the scope of work and number of community members served.

The grant prioritizes prevention efforts in Cully, Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods, along with other areas known for high gun violence rates, but organizations throughout Portland are encouraged to apply.

Examples of programs supported by the grant include:

• Preventative programs, workshops, camps, and events; 
• Flexible funds for direct community assistance and services; 
• Youth and adult mediation and mentoring programs;
• Arts and culture or recreational violence preventative programs;
• Aftercare support funds for families of victims; and 
• Capacity building in small contractors to provide services.

For more information about the grant and instructions on how to apply, visit https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/safer-portland-grant. All applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on May 17, 2024.

An online information session is being held from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. on April 30, 2024 - https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/events/2024/4/30/safer-summer-grant-information-session. 

On Saturday, April 27, the Portland Office of Violence Prevention’s Safe Blocks Program is hosting the Cully Community Resource Fair from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Hacienda Community Development Corporation in Northeast Portland. Sponsors include Community Services Network PDX, Living Cully, The DPI Group, and CareOregon.

The rain or shine event includes a food pantry, utility assistance information, local artisans, non-profit resources, kids activities, raffle prizes, chiropractic services, a repair café, and local food vendors.

Safe Blocks Program staff will be available for interviews at the resource fair between 12 – 1 p.m. or in advance by emailing CSDPIO@portlandoregon.gov. 

What: Cully Community Resource Fair

When: Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Hacienda Community Development Corporation – Las Adelitas Event Space (6700 NE Killingsworth St, Portland OR 97218)

For more information, email info@csnpdx.org or visit https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/events/2024/4/27/cully-community-resource-fair.

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[PORTLAND, OR] – On Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the City of Portland’s Safe Blocks Program and the Portland Police Bureau are partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration to host the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at the Penumbra Kelly Building. They will be collecting tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines.

What: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

When: Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Who: Safe Blocks Program & Portland Police Bureau 

Where: Penumbra Kelly Building (4735 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97215)

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day offers FREE and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide. For more than a decade, these events have helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—that too often become a gateway to addiction.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage. 

A canned food drive in support of our local Sunshine Division will be available for donations. Donate (2) cans of food to be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Amazon gift card! 

DataSafe will be available at the event for FREE confidential paper shredding to community members who wish to shred office paper, colored paper, or folders.  They will not be accepting plastic, liquids, binders, batteries, electronics, cans, or trash.

Can’t make it to this event? Visit www.dea.gov or call 1-800-882-9539  for an authorized year-round drug disposal location near you.

Note: This event will not be accepting furniture donations or disposing of any electronics.

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• Road closures and lane restrictions are expected surrounding the Capitol Mall.
• Drivers should use extra caution in response to increased pedestrian traffic in the area.
• The permitted event is scheduled from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on May 1, 2024.

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is alerting the public about street closures related to a planned one-day event on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, near the Oregon State Capitol Mall. Permitted street closures for the event will include portions of Court Street NE and Center Street NE between Capital Street NE and Church Street NE from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on May 1, 2024.

Drivers should expect increased pedestrian traffic and some delays. Temporary signage indicating road closures and lane restrictions will be in place. Drivers are asked to plan accordingly and seek alternate routes during the listed event times. Please drive safely and watch for an increase in pedestrians in the area. 

Closure Details

• Date: Wednesday, May 1, 2024
• Time: 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
• Affected Streets: Center Street NE, Capitol Street NE, Court Street NE, and Church Street NE near the Oregon State Capitol Mall.
• Details:  Full or partial street closures will be in effect in the area bordered by Capitol, Court, Center and Church streets northeast. This will accommodate the permitted activities and ensure the safety of all participants and visitors.

The City of Salem appreciates your cooperation and patience during this event and is committed to ensuring safety and accessibility for all residents and visitors. 

If you have comments or questions, please contact the Public Works Department’s Public Information Office at smith@cityofsalem.net">tbsmith@cityofsalem.net or 503-588-6211, ext. 7630.

 

• Survey helps identify community challenges and point the way toward change
• It is a partnership between Western Oregon University and City of Salem

Salem, Ore. – Help Salem become a welcoming, inclusive and friendly community by sharing your thoughts on community belonging in a new survey. 

The 2024 Community Belonging Survey is available in English and Spanish. You can use the language buttons to switch between the two languages as needed in different parts of the survey. It is being conducted by graduate students at Western Oregon University in partnership with the City of Salem Human Rights Commission. 

Survey results will be used to identify and implement ways to increase diversity, the sense of community belonging and inclusion for all communities in Salem. Individual responses will be kept confidential. Responses will be combined for analysis purposes. 

For example, in 2022, the survey showed that people experienced discrimination due to their lack of housing. In response, the City of Salem added housing status as a protected class. 

As a thank you, at the end of the survey you will have the option to enter a raffle for a chance to win two $50 prepaid Visa cards (courtesy of an anonymous private donor). Completing the survey is expected to take five to 10 minutes.

Start the survey

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Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver has been awarded a $1,030,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce for energy efficiency upgrades in affordable housing. The grant is part of the Multifamily Building Efficiency Grant program and is allocated under the Climate Commitment Act (CCA). Vancouver is the sole recipient of CCA funds specifically designated for Multifamily Building Efficiency Grants.

Sen. Annette Cleveland, D-Vancouver, championed this crucial project, which aims to implement energy efficiency retrofits at six affordable housing locations managed by the Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA). These retrofits will advance the state's goal of carbon pollution reduction and align with Vancouver's adopted Climate Action Framework, focusing on high-efficiency appliance upgrades, siding repair, window replacement for increased insulation, air sealing and heat pump installations.

“We are grateful for this significant grant award from the State. This funding not only demonstrates the state's recognition of the critical intersection between housing and climate resilience, but also underscores our shared commitment to creating safe, sustainable communities for all residents,” said Samantha Whitley, Vancouver Housing Program Manager. “These upgrades, to be implemented through our housing partner, VHA, will not only enhance the resilience of our housing stock but also improve the quality of life for those we serve, ensuring that they are better prepared to withstand the challenges of a changing climate." 

The project also serves to enhance climate resilience and equity by safeguarding vulnerable residents, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities, from extreme heatwaves and wildfire smoke. The installation of energy-efficient heat pump systems, which provide both air conditioning and heat, will mitigate health risks associated with climate hazards such as extreme heat.

”VHA was very excited to learn that the City was awarded funding. We are working to establish benchmarks to reduce our impact on the environment and this opportunity gets us one step closer to our climate goals,” said Victor Caesar, Chief Real Estate Officer at VHA.

Funding for CCA-supported projects is set to be distributed starting Jan. 2025, action that is contingent on the outcome of Initiative 2117 on the November 2024 ballot regarding the Climate Commitment Act.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is preparing to pave and preserve streets across 20 neighborhoods this summer. Vancouver’s Pavement Management Program will invest approximately $12.6 million in planning, design and construction to improve pavement conditions throughout the community, thanks in part to license fees collected through the City’s Transportation Benefit District. This work helps maximize the life of our streets and protect this vital community asset. Keeping good streets in good condition provides the most cost-effective and efficient use of available resources.

Several steps occur before pavement work begins on the street. As part of this preparation, street tree and vegetation pruning along identified streets has begun and will continue through June to help clear the way for coming construction equipment. Construction of ADA-compliant curb ramps at approximately 169 ramp locations, pavement repairs and sealing of street cracks also take place before paving and preservation. 

During pavement work, drivers should anticipate delays and street closures. Throughout the process, residents and businesses along the project corridors will receive notices with details about work hours, parking restrictions, closures and more. Travelers are advised to obey signs, watch for flaggers and slow down in work zones. 

This year’s program will pave about 13 lane miles of street surfaces on Northeast Ninth Street and Fourth Plain Boulevard. The City will implement new street elements along Fourth Plain Boulevard, from Fort Vancouver Way to Andresen Road after paving work is completed. Vancouver community members have provided extensive input for this Complete Streets project to enhance safety and mobility along the corridor. 

Pavement preservation work, including microsurfacing, slurry seal and cape seal treatments, is a big component of the annual program. Almost 74 lane miles of streets in east Vancouver will see some type of preservation used to protect and extend the life of these streets. Numerous neighborhood streets within the North Image, Burnt Bridge Creek, Fisher’s Landing East and Fisher’s Creek neighborhoods will receive slurry seal treatments. Microsurfacing preservation treatments are planned for segments along Southeast Mill Plain Boulevard, 164th Avenue, 34th Street, Cascade Park Drive and 192nd Avenue. After this work, safety and mobility improvements will be implemented on Southeast 34th Street, between Southeast 164th and 192nd avenues. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is seeking applicants to fill one vacancy on its Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission. Applications must be submitted by May 21.

The City’s Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission is a nine-member volunteer group responsible for facilitating the development and promotion of a thriving cultural, art and heritage environment that reflects the Vancouver community. This is accomplished through community-informed programs, ownership of buildings and public art, and a commitment to community partnerships. 

Commissioners meet from noon to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month, with meetings currently being held as hybrid. This recruitment is for a mid-term appointment, with a term beginning July 1, 2024 and ending Dec. 31, 2026. Per Vancouver City Council policy, all incumbents who wish to be considered for reappointment to their positions will be interviewed along with any other qualifying applicants. All applicants must be available to participate in a virtual interview with members of the Vancouver City Council on a date to be determined.

Learn more about boards and commissions and apply online at www.cityofvancouver.us/boards. For a printed application or for more information, contact the Boards and Commission Coordinator at P.O. Box 1995, Vancouver, WA 98668-1995, c_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us">bc_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-8600.

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Vancouver, Wash. - The City recently launched a nationwide recruitment process to hire Vancouver’s next City Manager. As part of the community involvement process, the City is interested in getting feedback from community members to guide the recruitment and selection strategies.

“The role of City Manager is critical to the City’s success,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “The input of the community is important for informing our decision-making process. I urge everyone to take a few minutes to complete this survey and share their thoughts with us."

The feedback will be used to help identify a pool of candidates that reflects the needs of the community. The anonymous survey is located on the City’s website and is open through May 15. If online access is not available, community members are encouraged to contact the City at 360-487-8614 to receive a paper copy by mail. The results of the survey will be made available to the public on the City’s website.

In addition to forming a Council sub-committee to lead the process, the city has contracted with Bob Murray and Associates to help manage the national recruitment and hiring process, with the goal of an appointment in mid-July. Learn more about the recruitment process, including the position description, at Bob Murray and Associates.

Vancouver operates under a council-manager form of government where the City Council appoints a City Manager to serve as the chief executive of the city. The City is seeking a new city manager due to the recent retirement announcement from current City Manager Eric Holmes.

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from April 21 to April 24, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the sample collected on April 22. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on April 21, April 23 and April 24. Prior to this detection, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on April 3, 2024.

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 great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. 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.

CORRECTION: The original release identified two detectives with incorrect agencies; the release has now been updated. MCDA regrets the error.

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that Janeice Renee Downs, 24, has been indicted on 16 theft charges totaling over $56,000 in stolen goods from a local retailer. This case is being investigated and prosecuted by the Organized Retail Theft Task Force. 

Upon review of the evidence, the Task Force presented the case to a grand jury, which returned a true bill of indictment on April 22, 2024, for the following charges:

• Six counts of Organized Retail Theft
• Three counts of Aggravated Theft in the First Degree
• Seven counts of Theft in the First Degree

In addition, Downs has been accused of more than $400,000 in retail theft in Washington State, and she faces further charges in Multnomah and other Oregon counties. She is currently in custody in King County, Washington (under the name Janeice Smith). 

The DA’s Office would like to thank multiple law enforcement partners for their assistance in this case, including Detective Andrew Hearst with the Portland Police Bureau, Detective Jeffry Christiansen with the Bellevue Police Department, and Detective Nyla Poulson with the Tigard Police Department.

A charging instrument is only an accusation of a crime. Downs is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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MEDFORD, Ore.—A Cave Junction, Oregon man with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to more than 14 years in federal prison Thursday for illegally possessing methamphetamine and 12 firearms while on state supervision.

William Thomas Gillespie, 39, was sentenced to 173 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

“This lengthy prison sentence is a just outcome for a man who poses a significant danger to the community. We thank our partners on the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team for their dedication and commitment over many months to bringing Mr. Gillespie to justice,” said Nathan J. Lichvarick, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices.

“With Mr. Gillespie’s lengthy criminal record involving drug distribution, illegal firearms, and flight from supervised release, this significant sentence is well warranted,” said Jonathan Blais, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division. “ATF will always investigate those who endanger our communities and citizens through their illegal actions.”

According to court documents, on April 6, 2020, Gillespie was arrested in White City, Oregon attempting to deliver approximately 174 grams of methamphetamine. At the time of his arrest, he possessed six baggies of methamphetamine and a digital scale. After Gillespie consented to a search of his residence, investigators located and seized 12 firearms, including an AR-15 and multiple AK-style rifles. Three of the firearms were found to be stolen and one had an obliterated serial number.

On November 5, 2020, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a three-count indictment charging Gillespie with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, illegally possessing a short-barrel rifle, and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

On June 23, 2021, Gillespie was released from custody pending trial, and, on August 1, 2022, pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

On January 2023, Gillespie absconded from his supervised release and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On September 13, 2023, Gillespie was located and arrested in Bandon, Oregon.

This case was investigated by the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team (RADE), a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. RADE includes members from Oregon State Police, the Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Probation & Parole, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

This case was prosecuted by Judith R. Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A North Bend, Oregon man suspected of abusing multiple children has been indicted in federal court.

Christopher Jay Young, 39, has been charged in a two-count indictment with attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and attempting to coerce and entice a minor.

According to the indictment, on or about January 20, 2024, Young is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and record the conduct. Young’s crimes involving one minor victim, as alleged in the indictment, are part of a broader series of similar abusive crimes he is suspected to have committed involving multiple other children during a similar timeframe.

Between April 4 and 8, 2024, the FBI applied for and obtained multiple federal search warrants for Young’s person, home and vehicles. On April 11, 2024, special agents and deputies from the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Oregon State Police, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrants and arrested Young.

Five days later, on April 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Young. He was arraigned on the indictment Wednesday in federal court in Eugene by a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Young pleaded not guilty and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

Attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence. Attempted coercion and enticement of a minor is punishable by up to life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence.

This case is being investigated by the FBI in conjunction with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

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

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

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Central Oregon drug trafficker who conspired with others to traffic fentanyl and methamphetamine to Madras and Redmond, Oregon, and surrounding areas, was sentenced to federal prison today.

Israel Sarabia, 30, of Culver, Oregon, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, as part of a joint drug trafficking investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE), investigators learned that a Central Oregon drug trafficking organization was using a courier to transport bulk quantities of drugs from either Southern California or Mexico into Oregon. On December 10, 2022, investigators located and stopped the courier in Klamath Falls, Oregon. While searching the courier’s vehicle, investigators located three packages containing approximately 30,000 counterfeit Oxycodone pills that later tested positive for fentanyl.

Further investigation revealed that the courier was traveling to Sarabia’s residence and that he had been tasked by Sarabia with bringing him fentanyl from Southern California or Mexico. On March 15, 2023, investigators located and arrested Sarabia near his residence in Culver. On the same day, investigators located and seized 519 grams of methamphetamine, more than 1,000 fentanyl pills, 41 grams of cocaine, and nine firearms from the residence of a co-conspirator who was working for Sarabia and storing drugs on his behalf.

On March 15, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Sarabia and an accomplice with conspiring with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, and distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine. A third individual was also charged with conspiracy. 

On August 21, 2023, Sarabia pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by DEA and CODE. It was prosecuted by Lewis S. Burkhart, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The CODE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. CODE includes members of the Bend, Redmond, Prineville, Madras, Sunriver, and Black Butte Police Departments; the Warm Springs Tribal Police Department; the Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County Sheriff and District Attorney’s Offices; the Oregon State Police; the Oregon National Guard; DEA; and the FBI.

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EUGENE, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to torture, mutilate, and murder monkeys, and then produce and distribute videos of those acts in exchange for money raised by an online animal abuse group.

David Christopher Noble, 48, of Prineville, Oregon, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

“The victims in this case cannot speak for themselves, but the impact of the grotesque violence brought upon them is unmistakable. At the direction of David Noble and his co-conspirators, the producers of these animal abuse videos not only killed monkeys but did so in a way that extended their pain and suffering as long as possible,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices. “Today’s sentence should make it clear to others engaged in this heinous conduct that they will be held responsible for their crimes.”

“David Noble's depraved actions not only inflicted unspeakable agony upon innocent creatures but also tainted the very essence of humanity’s moral fiber,” stated Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Under Noble's direction, the production and distribution of grotesque animal abuse videos represented a dark descent into the abyss of cruelty and exploitation. Today’s sentencing underscores our unwavering commitment to holding individuals like Noble accountable for their reprehensible crimes against compassion and decency.”

According to court documents, from January 2022 through February 2023, Noble conspired with others in the District of Oregon and elsewhere to send multiple online payments to co-conspirators overseas to fund the production of videos depicting the torture, mutilation and murder of monkeys. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Noble administered an online group wherein members would raise funds to produce, discuss ideas for, and share animal abuse videos.

In Noble’s messages to the group, he expressed his enjoyment of videos depicting the torture and murder of long-tailed macaques, which members of the group, including Noble, referred to as “rats.” In one message to the group sent in June 2022, Noble expressed that the only thing he did not like in abuse videos was when the torturers “kill the rats too quickly,” and he further expressed a desire that they “keep it alive make it suffer make sure it knows to fear you and that you end its existence at any time.” In another message, Noble claimed “the noises they make from pain and abuse are some of my favorite sounds.”

In 2006, Noble, a former United States Air Force officer, was dismissed from the Air Force and ordered to serve six months in military custody following a court martial for fraud and an unprofessional relationship. In early February 2023, following the investigation in this case, investigators executed a search warrant on Noble’s residence and found approximately 50 videos depicting animal abuse, along with several firearms and ammunition.

On May 18, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Noble with conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos, creating animal crush videos, and illegally possessing a firearm as a dishonorably discharged person.

After his home was searched, Noble relocated from Prineville to Henderson, Nevada, and, on June 13, 2023, was arrested in Henderson. The next day, he made his first appearance in federal court in Las Vegas and was ordered detained pending his transfer to Oregon. On July 21, 2023, after arriving in Oregon, Noble was again ordered detained based on the nature of his offenses, including the extreme violence associated, and his possession of firearms.

On January 10, 2024, Noble pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and prosecuted by William M. McLaren and Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor crime victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates. This year’s observance, the 43^rd annual commemoration, takes place April 21-27, 2024, with the theme: Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.

“Through the work of our victim services team, our new special victims unit, and all our staff who work on victim cases, seeking justice on behalf crime victims is central to our mission and continues to be a top priority for our office,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.

OVC and U.S. Attorney’s Offices encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas for how you can support crime victims throughout the year, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/subscribe/.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you have been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On April 18, 2024, Cristian Michael Abarca was sentenced to 150 months in prison under Measure 11 sentencing guidelines after he was convicted of two counts of Robbery in the First Degree. Senior Deputy District Attorney Andrew Freeman prosecuted this case.

On August 12, 2022, two brothers parked in front of a convenience store near SE 10^th Ave and SE Baseline. When the driver got out to go inside, Mr. Abarca approached and got into the driver’s seat with a large fixed-blade knife. He then threatened the brother in the passenger seat, who fled the vehicle. The defendant drove off in the car which contained the victims’ paychecks and a cell phone. Thankfully, these were recovered when the brothers spotted their car abandoned nearby. At the time the robber’s identity was unknown. 

On September 2, 2022, the defendant approached a man after he got off the bus with his groceries near that same convenience store. The defendant pulled a large, fixed-blade knife out of his sock and threatened to stab the victim if he didn’t hand over his phone and wallet. The victim gave the defendant his wallet and all the groceries he had just purchased. The defendant left the area on foot while the victim ran to the Hillsboro police station and reported the robbery. Police immediately began searching the area and arrested the defendant nearby. He had the victim’s wallet along with two fixed-blade knives, one in his sock and one in his waistband. Officers were able to return the groceries to the victim after a K9 found them in a vacant lot nearby. 

Investigators later linked DNA evidence found on the steering wheel from the stolen car incident to the defendant and determined he had committed both robberies. While in detention at the Washington County Jail, the defendant assaulted two inmates in separate, unprovoked incidents. These actions, together with other factors including the defendant’s prior failure on domestic violence probation, were all cited by Judge Ricardo Menchaca when imposing the lengthy sentence. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Hillsboro Police Department in locating and arresting the defendant. Mr. Abarca will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence. 

HILLSBORO, Ore- On April 23, 2024, a Washington County jury found Cesar Yovanni Alvarez-Alcazar, age 20, guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. The defendant pled no contest to Unlawful Possession of a Firearm prior to the trial. Judge Theodore Sims then sentenced the defendant to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years. Senior Deputy District Attorney John Gerhard and Deputy District Attorney Dustin Staten prosecuted this case. 

On February 6, 2022, the defendant attended a house party in Cornelius, Oregon. He was heavily intoxicated and got into a verbal argument with multiple partygoers including the victim, Jose Angel Rodriguez-Sanchez, age 20 at the time. The defendant shot the victim several times and also fired a shot at another partygoer. The victim died from his injuries, and the defendant fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. 

Investigators quickly identified the defendant as their suspect. He was arrested by officers from the Salem Police Department during a traffic stop seven months later. Police found a loaded handgun hidden under the defendant’s driver’s seat along with 400 rounds of ammunition and body armor. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the investigative work on this case by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the deputies serving the City of Cornelius. This office also thanks the Salem Police Department for their work in apprehending the defendant. 

Mr. Alvarez-Alcazar will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence. 

The four $25,000 investments are part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative to protect the Pacific Northwest’s environment and fight climate change

PORTLAND, Ore., April 22, 2024 — In celebration of Earth Day 2024, OnPoint Community Credit Union has donated $100,000 to local nonprofits working to preserve and protect the environment, natural resources and wildlife in Oregon and SW Washington. 

The donation is part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative, which launched in 2021 to help empower the credit union’s members and employees to care for the planet. This year’s beneficiaries are The Nature Conservancy in Oregon, Friends of Trees, McKenzie River Trust and Columbia Slough Watershed Council. Each organization will receive $25,000.

“Earth Day is a powerful reminder of how critical it is to preserve our planet for future generations,” said Rob Stuart, President and CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “The Green Horizons initiative is OnPoint’s commitment to giving our community the opportunity to make a difference, while amplifying the work of local organizations dedicated to protecting our planet. We are proud to support these four incredible organizations that are at the forefront of environmental conservation.” 

OnPoint’s Green Horizons provides members with financing discounts on electric or hybrid vehicles and solar panels, partners with local environmental nonprofits, and offers employees telecommuting programs, volunteer opportunities and environmental education. Since its launch, OnPoint has donated more than $500,000 to local nonprofits working to create a more sustainable future.

Supporting Oregon’s conservation with local nonprofit support

The Nature Conservancy in Oregon (TNC) brings people together to solve the most significant conservation challenges of our time. Since 2017, OnPoint has donated more than $340,000 to help fund projects, including forest restoration, ensuring vibrant and resilient coastal communities and sustainable fisheries, and protecting existing soil and underground carbon in Eastern Oregon. In 2021, OnPoint pledged up to $250 to TNC for every approved electric or hybrid vehicle loan with OnPoint. The campaign resulted in 1,474 approved green auto loans and a $226,750 donation to TNC. 

“We are so grateful for OnPoint’s continued support of our mission,” said Derek Johnson, State Director of The Nature Conservancy in Oregon. “This generous contribution will help us further our progress in tackling urgent environmental challenges while strengthening Oregon’s natural defenses against climate change.”

Friends of Trees partners with local communities to plant trees creating a healthier environment for local communities. Friends of Trees has planted over 950,000 trees and native shrubs in neighborhoods and natural areas in Oregon and SW Washington since 1989. Friends of Trees contributes to a greener, more sustainable future through its planting efforts and fosters a deep connection between community members and their environment. 

“Our partnerships help make it possible to engage community members in tree planting projects in neighborhoods and natural areas throughout Oregon,” said Yashar Vasef, Executive Director for Friends of Trees. “OnPoint’s partnership and generous donation will bring people together to take real climate action in their communities.”

McKenzie River Trust has brought communities together to protect and restore western Oregon’s land and waters since 1989. The McKenzie River Trust has protected over 7,000 acres of special lands, conserving critical habitats for wildlife, clean water and natural landscapes while promoting a climate-resilient and sustainable future. The Trust works to reestablish native vegetation and natural water cycles to ensure these lands withstand and adapt to environmental changes. It also safeguards the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region and engages the community in sustainable practices, contributing significantly to a healthier planet.

“Partnering with organizations like OnPoint helps us achieve our mission to protect and care for Oregon’s lands and rivers,” said Elizabeth Goward, Community Engagement Manager for the Trust. “We are grateful for the supportive partnership and look forward to continuing our work protect important places, connect people to the outdoors, and ensure a vibrant future for the land, water, and people of western Oregon.”

Columbia Slough Watershed Council partners with community members to enhance the Columbia Slough and its watershed through community engagement, education and restoration. Columbia Slough Watershed Council has worked in response to rampant development and loss of open space to fight pollution since the early 1990s. A key component of their strategy is the Slough School program, which offers free environmental education to K-12 students. This initiative educates students about the ecosystem’s history and ecology through hands-on learning and fosters a sense of stewardship and connection to their local environment.

“Our goal is to ensure our urban watershed is rich in clean water and healthy habitats that support the needs of fish, wildlife, plants and people,” said Heather King, Executive Director for Columbia Slough Watershed Council. “Everything we do is made possible by community partners like OnPoint, and we are so grateful for their generosity and shared commitment to creating a cleaner environment.”

Increasing accessibility with auto and home special rate discounts

OnPoint’s Green Horizons offers special rate discounts for members to make going green more accessible. The Green Auto Discount offers 0.25%¹ Annual Percentage Rate (APR) off auto loan rates for new or used electric or hybrid vehicles financed through OnPoint. People in the market for electric or hybrid vehicles can also find additional incentives through Oregon, Washington and federal programs.

OnPoint’s Green Horizons also makes it more affordable for homeowners to produce their own solar electricity. When homeowners apply for an EquityFlex Line of Credit for home improvements, they can fix a portion of their line of credit for the purchase of solar panels and receive a 0.25%² discount off the EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR. Homeowners can find even more savings by looking at incentives and rebate programs in Oregon and Washington.

For more information about OnPoint’s investment in building a greener future, such as telecommuting programs, employee volunteer opportunities, and other donations to environmentally-focused organizations, please visit onpointcu.com/green-horizons.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 554,000 members and with assets of $9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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1. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Vehicles meeting OnPoint’s Green Auto Discount standards receive a 0.25% discount off stated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval. Discount does not apply to existing OnPoint auto loans.
2. Receive a 0.25% discount off stated EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR when proceeds are used to purchase solar panels. Review of purchase order or invoice required to qualify. Discount applies to invoice/purchase order amount, not to exceed $12,000. All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval.

Salem, Oregon, April 23, 2024—Chemeketa Community College is proud to present an afternoon of Traditional Dance and a Cultural Presentation.  

Thursday, May 9
12-1
Free.
Chemeketa Community College, Salem Campus
The Quad (between buildings 3 and 9)

(inclement weather location: Bldg 6, Auditorium)

4000 Lancaster Dr NE Salem, Oregon 97309

Nakeezaka and Nakoosa Jack (Moreland) will present traditional dance in full regalia. Their combined tribal affiliations and bands include Grand Ronde, Umpqua, Rogue River, Shasta, Mary’s River Kalapuya, Klickatat, Shoshone Bannock, Dińe, Interior Salish, Colville, Coeur d’ Alene, Spokane.

Registration on Eventbrite

Contact 503-399-6093 for more information or email a.mack@chemeketa.edu">laura.mack@chemeketa.edu.
For press inquiries please contact ie.hulett@chemeketa.edu">marie.hulett@chemeketa.edu

This event is possible with the support of
s'gʷi gʷi ʔ altxʷ: The House of Welcome at the Longhouse,
Chemeketa's Office of Diversity and Equity, and
The Gretchen Schuette Art Gallery Endowment.

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College was recently awarded a $100,000 grant from the Oregon Business Development Department to develop a statewide Spanish construction contractor certification program. This innovative program will expand access to high-wage careers in construction for Spanish-speaking individuals across Oregon.

Oregon's construction industry is booming, with growth expected to outpace national averages significantly.  However, meeting this demand with a qualified workforce is challenging. This grant directly addresses this need by:

• Increasing the number of Spanish-speaking contractors: The program aims to certify an additional 60 Spanish-speaking contractors in the first year, with a long-term goal of 400 annually.
• Fostering a more equitable construction industry: By providing training in Spanish, the program empowers those for whom English is not their first language to participate in and contribute to the construction industry's growth.

Clackamas Community College’s Small Business Development Center has a track record of success in this area.  The college currently offers the only state-approved construction contractor certification course that can teach and test in Oregon.  Since partnering with the Construction Contractors Board (CCB), they've increased Latino pass rates from 30% to 70%.

The grant will fund the development of a comprehensive Spanish construction contractor certification program, including:

• Video-on-demand training: A high-quality, digitized 16-hour course accessible to students statewide.
• Statewide proctoring system: A robust system ensuring all proctoring meets college and national SBDC standards.
• Outreach and marketing: A targeted campaign to raise awareness of the program within the Spanish-speaking community.
• Faculty support: Hiring a bilingual faculty member to support program delivery.

“CCC is proud to be awarded this grant to develop a program that will create a more inclusive construction industry,” Rob Campbell, SBDC director at Clackamas Community College, said. “This innovative program will address the critical need for skilled workers while empowering Spanish-speaking individuals to pursue rewarding careers in construction.”

The project is designed for long-term sustainability. By the grant's conclusion, a robust, self-sufficient Spanish certification program will be available at SBDC locations across Oregon.

For more information about CCC’s Small Business Development Center, visit www.clackamas.edu/SBDC. 

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FREE FESTIVAL CULMINATES IN DAY-LONG WORKSHOPS DESIGNED FOR WRITERS OF ALL LEVELS  

VANCOUVER, Wash.— The English department at Clark College hosts its annual Creative Writing Festival from May 6-11. The event, which is free and open to the public, features activities geared for writers at all levels. The festival allows writers to immerse themselves in workshops and readings by renowned authors. It will culminate with the Clark Spring Creative Writing Workshop on Saturday, May 11, with a full day of workshops for writers.

All events will be in the Penguin Union Building (PUB) on Clark College's main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.  Directions and maps are available online.

Schedule

May 6, 11 a.m. - noon, PUB 258B: Writing from Lived Experience: A reading and conversation with author Peyton Marshall 

May 7, 10-11 a.m., LIB 101, Cannell Library: “Exit Black” book release party: A reading and celebration of Clark English professor Joe Pitkin’s new sci-fi novel

May 8,12-2 p.m., LIB 101, Cannell Library: Create Your Own Comic: A hands-on workshop by Clark Art professor Grant Hottle. Art materials provided. 

May 9, 10 a.m.-noon, PUB 161: “The Swift” release party with student readings and a celebration of the publication of the 2^nd edition of Clark's student-run literary journal 

May 9, 4-6 p.m., PUB 161: English Department Awards Ceremony

May 10, 10-11 a.m., PUB 258B-C: Yoga for Creativity: A free yoga class focused on connecting the mind and body to nourish creativity

May 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Penguin Union Building: Spring Writing Workshop: A full day of writing workshops, readings, and community building. Includes free lunch, coffee, and pastries. 
Reserve your free tickets here. (bit.ly/writing-24)

SPRING WRITING WORKSHOP on May 11:

STEPHANIE ADAMS-SANTOS, “Dreamscape of the Altar” "You must give birth to your images."~ Rilke. Through a blend of guided meditation and writing prompts, we will work to nurture a fertile soil for receiving sacred imagery from the depths of the psyche. Delving into the mysterious terrains of embodied inner life, we'll explore the concept of an interior altar, using active imagination to connect with unconscious symbols and dreams. This process serves as a pathway to delve more deeply into our own creative material. Note: We will be working on the floor for part of the workshop, though this portion can be adjusted to accommodate any body; all materials provided.

LISA BULLARD, “Opening Another Door: Symbolism in Poetry” Symbolism opens the door for a poet to say more with fewer words, and a striking symbol adds depth and intrigue to a poem. In this workshop, we will look at models of how others have used symbols and create symbols of our own. The workshop will be group oriented: the more brains, the better! We'll have fun and play with words.

EMILY CHENOWETH, “Disruption and Change in Character, Setting, and Plot” “There are only two plots in all of literature — a person goes on a journey, and a stranger comes to town.” So said celebrated writing teacher John Gardner (supposedly). Whether Gardner’s right is up for debate, but Arrivals and Departures are classic literary tropes for good reason. In this generative workshop, we’ll consider the three pillars of character, setting, and plot, and craft short prose pieces that have disruption and change at their heart.

MICHAEL GUERRA, “Tangible Objects: Developing an Inner Life for Your Character” This workshop will focus on the life of tangible objects that often define and shape our lives. Through this process of developing an inner life for our characters, we will discover patterns for shaping both knowns and unknowns that motivate our characters and push our stories in ways we never thought possible.

DEBRA GWARTNEY, “Who is Telling Your Story?” In this workshop, we will explore the role of the “I” in memoir writing. Both the “I” involved in the action, and the “I” remembering and reflecting upon the event at the center of your narrative. This “dual-I” is where the tension in memoir lives, and where readers engage and connect. Come prepared to write and, if you wish, to talk about the challenges of turning yourself into a character on the page.

HR HEGNAUER, “Judge a Book by Its Cover” It could be said that the phrase "don't judge a book by its cover" seems to overlook the significant impact of book design. In this workshop, we'll dive into key aspects of book design, covering topics such as cover design, interior layout, paper selection, printing methods, and the integration of eBook design. We'll also envision our own future book covers, looking at your design ideas alongside logistical considerations.

SARA JAFFE, “Starting with Image: A Prose Workshop” What is an image? While conventionally defined as a visual representation or description, an image in writing can activate many senses at once. Transcending mere detail, an image electrifies and swirls up from the page, announcing to the reader that they are in this language-world and none other. In the words of cartoonist and writer Lynda Barry, "[An image is] alive in the way thinking is not, but experiencing is, made of both memory and imagination." Because so much meaning and sensation accrues to them, images can be terrific starting points for works of fiction and creative nonfiction. In this workshop, we'll mine our own personal image-banks for generative material, and work together to effectively bring the power of the image to the page.

MEREDITH KIRKWOOD, “Unexpected Arrivals: Writing Surprising Images” A poem is a series of departures and arrivals. A poet takes the reader to one image, then departs to another. Sometimes the reader arrives at the place they expected, but at its best, poetry can surprise—can take us to places the reader (and writer!) never anticipated. Those places offer us a sense of mystery and weirdness, a glimpse into other modes of consciousness and ways of being. This workshop offers tools for getting our poetry from the ordinary and predictable into some of those other places. Using as a guide the poem “4 Stars” by Oregon Poet Laureate and recent Columbia Writers Series guest Anis Mojgani, participants will write a poem by combining fragments of memory in unexpected ways. Then they will exchange images to create an even weirder, more surprising poem. Finally, they will try to break all the rules of grammar they can to arrive at unknown poetic terrain.

JOE PITKIN, “From Margins to the Center: How to Use Duotrope to Get Connected to Publishers” Do you have a story that you are proud of but have no idea how to get it published? Are you wondering what kinds of magazines and podcasts would be open to publishing your work? This session will explore how the online tool Duotrope can be used to get connected to publishers and agents!

MATHIAS SVALINA, “Writing with Dream Logic” Dreams cohere & dissolve in the same event; in this way the logics of dreams relate to the logics of emotional overwhelm & to the logics of the mass hallucinations of history or culture. This workshop will explore dream logic as a conscious & intentional writing tool, a writing strategy to employ to arrive at writerly truths beyond the rational. We will discuss the fugitive rationality in nonsense & the profundity in silliness as we look at some writers’ use of dream logics, & the forms & rhetorics of how we tell others our dreams. We will write to explore dream logic in narrative, lyric, & personal writing. The goals are to generate work that both bewilders & intimately engages the reader & writer alike.

PAULS TOUTONGHI, “Intention and Obstacle: The Use of a Time-Based Goal to Give Your Story Urgency” Fiction writers often struggle with plot -- or at least the idea of plot. Writing can come from a place of deep imagination, which is often not harnessed to any kind of mechanical apparatus. In fact, the imagination -- a dreamworld -- often specifically resists thinking in terms of timeline and story container. We will work to open stories that have a clear sense of urgency or, if it's missing, think about ways to get this urgency in existing stories.

CLAIRE VAYE WATKINS, “Writing Life and Death: How to Raise the Stakes of a Story” This workshop will be a generative session on how to raise the stakes in your story.

Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds. If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu/.

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933 and celebrating its 90^th year, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

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Leland to talk about how losing his sight expanded his world view at Columbia Writers Series   

Vancouver, Wash.— The Clark College Columbia Writers Series welcomes writer Andrew Leland. This event, which is free and open to the public, will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 29 in the Penguin Union Building (PUB) room 258 A-B on Clark College's main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.  Directions and maps are available online.  

Leland’s debut book, The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight, about the world of blindness and figuring out his place in it, was published by Penguin Press in 2023. 

Leland is a writer, audio producer, editor and teacher. His writing has been published in The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, McSweeney’s Quarterly, The San Francisco Chronicle, and more. He is a former host and producer of The Organist, an arts and culture podcast for KCRW. He has produced segments for Radiolab and 99 Percent Invisible. 

Since 2003 he has been an editor at “The Believer”, a quarterly literature, arts and culture magazine published by McSweeney’s. He has taught nonfiction writing, radio and digital storytelling at Smith College, University of Massachusetts Amherst and the University of Missouri. He lives in western Massachusetts with his wife and son. Learn more about Leland here.

The Columbia Writers Series was launched at Clark College in 1988, bringing local, national and international authors to the college and the region. Learn more about the Columbia Writers Series at www.clark.edu/cc/cws. 

Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds. If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu/.

About Clark College  

Founded in 1933 and celebrating its 90^th year, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.    

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HILLSBORO, Ore. – Yareli Cornejo Torres, an alumna of Portland Community College's Health Studies Program, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration and change in the realm of public health advocacy. 

After graduating with an associate degree from PCC in 2018, Cornejo Torres continued her educational journey, earning a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Portland State University (PSU). Today, she stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and perseverance.

Cornejo Torres's journey began with her participation in the BUILD EXITO Program, a groundbreaking collaboration between PCC, PSU, and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). This innovative initiative aims to cultivate the talents of underrepresented students interested in biomedical, public health, and social science research careers. Through BUILD EXITO, Cornejo Torres not only honed her research skills but also found her calling in advocating for marginalized communities.

She continued her studies with the program at PSU, where she researched the barriers and facilitators of health research among Spanish-speaking Mexican and Mexican-American women, graduating from PSU in 2020. Through her research project she was able to collaborate with the Mexican Consulate. Her project helped her continue to implement this research through her position at the OHSU Women’s Health Research Unit.

Reflecting on her educational background, Cornejo Torres expressed gratitude for the opportunities she received at PCC. She didn’t speak a word of English when she started kindergarten with her parents struggling to understand how to navigate the Oregon education system. From a young age, she said, she struggled with school, specifically with math and science courses. 

“As a first-generation college student, I dealt with a lot of anxiousness and felt like I shouldn't be part of higher education,” she said. “But PCC provided me with invaluable support and resources that helped me succeed.”

Cornejo Torres’s dedication to her studies and her community has propelled her into a fulfilling career in public health advocacy. Currently serving as a behavioral health resource specialist at OHSU Family Medicine at Richmond, Cornejo Torres is committed to eliminating barriers to health care access, particularly for non-English-speaking populations.

“When it comes to health research, participation often excludes folks that are non-English speakers,” she said. “So, being able to introduce health research and eliminate barriers to participation is vital towards inclusivity.”

Looking ahead, Cornejo Torres harbors ambitious goals for the future. 

“I want to obtain a dual degree at the OHSU School of Public Health for both a master’s in Epidemiology and Social Work at PSU,” she said. “Eventually, I would like to work in a hospital setting and provide resources to patients, extending similar support to households across the country.”

As she continues her journey, Cornejo Torres remains deeply rooted in her mission to empower communities and promote health equity.

For her full profile, visit: www.pcc.edu/news/2024/04/yareli-cornejo-torres/

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 50,000 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/

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently added a new position of Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives in its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support efforts to become a Hispanic-Serving Institution. After a search, Cristian Mendez Garcia has been selected for this role and officially started on April 22. 

Mendez Garcia's journey began in the early 1990s when he immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico, settling in the Monmouth-Independence community. His educational path led him to Western, where he pursued his passion for art, graduating with a degree in graphic design and fine art photography. As the son of migrant workers, Mendez Garcia deeply appreciates the transformative power of higher education in opening doors to a brighter future. Drawing from his own experiences, he has dedicated his career to advancing opportunities for others. With a wealth of experience in the business sector, Mendez Garcia served as a business operations manager for T-Mobile, honing his skills in strategic planning and project management. In addition, he played a pivotal role as the Chapter Chair for T-Mobile’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts in the Oregon region, demonstrating his commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. His dedication to Western extends beyond the classroom and workplace. Mendez Garcia has served on the WOU Foundation board and most recently held the position of Trustee member on the Western Oregon University Board of Trustees, where he continues to champion initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's mission and impact.

“I am incredibly thrilled to continue my work with Western Oregon University and am proud of our emerging HSI status,” shares Mendez Garcia. “Higher education is transformative and I love being in a position where I can help WOU achieve its HSI designation to help our students and the institution succeed.”

“I am excited to have Cristian join the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support our university efforts to become a Hispanic Serving Institution,” says Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dominique Vargas. “Cristian has a broad scope of diversity, equity, and inclusion experience combined with strategic planning, community engagement, and program development. He also has a clear passion for and investment in the Western Oregon University community. We will collaboratively vision our path forward as an emerging Hispanic institution, and work across stakeholder groups to better serve our students and community.” 

This Friday, April 26, Western is hosting its third annual Hispanic Serving Institution Summit, where state and national partners join the university and greater community to share ideas and best practices and discuss why becoming an HSI is critically important to student success and the greater community. This year’s summit will feature two keynote presenters, Patrick L. Valdez, Ph. D., and Marissa Vasquez, Ph. D., who will focus on the history, policy, and current context of Hispanic Serving Institutions, and discuss operationalizing servingness. There will also be a student panel, an afternoon of concurrent sessions, and networking time for attendees.

Learn more about the summit.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver will honor 784 graduating students this year. The honorees include graduates from the fall 2023 and spring and summer 2024 terms.

Commencement begins at 1 p.m. May 4 at RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater, 17200 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield, Wash. No tickets are required, and parking is free. The seating area opens at 11:30 a.m.; parking opens at 11 a.m. The ceremony will also be streamed on WSU Vancouver’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/wsuvancouver.

Guests as well as graduates will walk through a metal detector at entry. Carry-in belongings will be searched. Only small clutches, wristlets or fanny packs no bigger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches or clear plastic bags no bigger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches will be allowed inside. Guns, pocketknives and other weapons are not allowed. Do not bring balloons, gift bags, fireworks, outside food or drink, coolers, laser pointers, pets, weapons, umbrellas, strollers or playpens, skateboards or inline skates. Graduates and guests will be asked to return these items to their vehicle. 

ABOUT THE GRADUATES             

The 2024 graduates include 34 doctoral candidates in the areas of anthropology, biology, educational leadership, environmental and natural resource sciences, neuroscience, nursing practice, prevention science and sociology.

The 47 master’s candidates will receive degrees in anthropology, biology, business administration, computer science, education, electrical engineering, environmental and natural resource sciences, environmental science, health communication and promotion, mechanical engineering, molecular biosciences, nursing, plant biology, prevention science, psychology and teaching.

The 703 bachelor’s candidates will receive degrees in anthropology, arts, biology, business administration, computer science, criminal justice and criminology, data analytics, digital technology and culture, earth and environmental science, education, electrical engineering, English, history, hospitality business management, human biology, human development, humanities, mathematics, mechanical engineering, neuroscience, nursing, political science, psychology, public affairs, social sciences, sociology, speech and hearing sciences and strategic communication.

Names of the graduates can be found in the online Commencement program, available at vancouver.wsu.edu/commencement.

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. 

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The Multnomah Education Service District Board Equity and Inclusion Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2024.
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/81876451257?pwd=r6K8OZA2AoIUlAxL1y8t1hbp2aaHi8.1     
​​​​​​​Passcode: 135191

Tigard, Oregon – Tigard-Tualatin School District (TTSD) Director of Secondary Amber Fields announced today that Cindy Pellicci will be the new principal at Fowler Middle School. Pellicci assumes the role on July 1, 2024, replacing current Principal Andy Van Fleet who will become the new Principal at Sherwood Middle School. 

“Our students, staff, families, and community members all voiced their desire for a leader who is visionary, a strategic thinker, equity-centered, strong communicator, experienced in middle school environments, and collaborative,” said Director Fields. “Our stakeholder groups involved in the hiring process unanimously felt that Cindy Pellicci embodies these qualities, and I wholeheartedly agree. As Fowler’s current associate principal, Cindy will seamlessly continue her career journey in the place she calls home, ready to lead with thoughtfulness and passion.”

Cindy brings 18 years of experience in education primarily serving in TTSD both at Fowler and Tigard High School. She joined TTSD in 2008 as a Health teacher before transitioning to Tigard High School’s first On-Track Coordinator. Cindy held that position for five years at which point she progressed into her current role as an Associate Principal at Fowler Middle School.

“As a longtime member of the Fowler Middle School community, I have spent eleven years building strong relationships with all stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and community members, by actively listening, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering a sense of belonging. It will be an extraordinary honor to serve as the next school leader. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our pandemic-impacted students & staff can re-center the school-house as a hub of academic, social, and emotional growth and joy.”

After serving four years in the United States Navy, Pellicci earned her BS Ed. at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut. She then completed her MS in Educational Leadership from Western Governor’s University where she earned her Principal’s Licensure. She is currently enrolled in the University of Oregon Professional Administrator Licensure program. 

Tigard, Oregon - After a national search, Tigard-Tualatin School District (TTSD) Superintendent Dr. Sue Rieke-Smith announced today that Jessica Seay will be the District’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) beginning July 1, 2024. Seay, serving currently as the St. Helens School District Director of Fiscal Services, will step into the position currently held by CFO David Moore who announced his retirement at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. 

“It's an immense privilege to be able to join the Tigard-Tualatin team and work with education, support, and operations staff, to ensure equitable educational opportunities for students. I look forward to continuing the District's work in aligning financial resources to strategic investments so that Tigard-Tualatin School District is well-positioned to continuously address the diverse needs of our students and the communities we serve.”

Seay holds a BA in Business Administration from Washington State University and a Certificate in Education Finance from Georgetown University.  She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Oregon Association of School Business Officials, serving as the Professional Development Committee Chair.  Seay is also a current member of the Oregon Department of Education Program Budgeting and Accounting Manual Committee.  

Seay began her career using her accounting background to support nonprofit organizations working with Clark Nuber Public Accounting Firm where she received training in not-for-profit accounting, organizational internal controls, and best practices in governance.  In this work, she also audited Federal programs and supervised staff navigating the accounting reporting requirements. 

A variety of annual and perennial bedding and flowering plants, as well as vegetable starts and hanging baskets grown in Battle Ground Public Schools’ greenhouses by students and staff, will be available for purchase at upcoming public sales beginning later this month.

Sales will be drop-in with no prior registration required. The Northwest Native Trees and Shrubs sale on the CASEE campus will include one day where the first hour is for members only.

Money raised from these sales supports the district's horticulture and FFA programs and welding teams. Students and staff from Battle Ground High School, Prairie High School and the FFA program grow tens of thousands of plants each year. Some of these plants are used in landscaping projects on school campuses, while the rest are sold at annual public sales.
 

CENTER FOR AGRICULTURE, SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Saturday, April 27:

• 10-11 a.m. - NatureScaping members only (register at NatureScaping.org)
• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Open to the public (no appointment necessary)

Sunday, April 28:

• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Open to the public (no appointment necessary)

CASEE is located at 11104 N.E. 149th Street in Brush Prairie.
Payment options: Checks and credit/debit cards accepted.

Held in conjunction with NatureScaping of SW Washington's Bare Root trees, shrubs and perennials sale, CASEE will have northwest native trees and shrubs available. Trees are $15, shrubs start at $7, perennials start at $1. There will also be mason bee cocoons available for purchase.

PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL
Wednesday through Friday, May 8-10, 3-6 p.m.
Saturday, May 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The PHS greenhouse is located in the southwest corner of the campus at 11311 NE 119th St. in Vancouver. Signs will be out to help direct traffic.
Payment options: Cash (exact change only please), check and debit/credit cards accepted

The Prairie greenhouse has been busy growing hanging baskets, table planters, geraniums, fuchsias, succulents, perennial plants, ornamental grasses, annual bedding plants and vegetables. The What’s Growing in Prairie’s Greenhouse Facebook page will be posting details on what plants are available the week before the sale starts.

BATTLE GROUND HIGH SCHOOL
Saturday, May 18, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The BGHS greenhouses are located at 300 W Main St., Battle Ground.
Payment options: Cash, check and debit/credit cards accepted.

Battle Ground High School’s Agriculture Department has a large selection of hanging baskets in various sizes available for sale this year. Other plants available will include a wide assortment of  geraniums, succulents, perennials, vegetable starts, herbs, PNW Natives, flowering patio pots and assorted houseplants. 

On Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., community youth substance use prevention coalitions, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations are collaborating to host five drive-thru drug take-back events at different locations across Clark County.

Community members are encouraged to bring their unused and expired prescriptions and over‐the‐counter medications for safe, free disposal to any one of the following drive-thru event sites: 

Clark County Event Sites:

• Walgreens Cascade Park - 13503 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA
• PeaceHealth Memorial Campus - 33rd & Main St. (South Back Lot), Vancouver, WA
• Battle Ground Police Department - 507 SW 1st St., Battle Ground, WA
• Washougal Police Department - 1320 A St., Washougal, WA
• La Center Police Department - 105 W 5th St., La Center, WA

All prescription and over‐the‐counter medications including pills, liquids, and inhalers will be accepted at any of the drive‐thru disposal events. Medications not in original containers will also be accepted. Removal of personal information on medication labels or packaging is not required for disposal at the event sites. 

Please note that the PeaceHealth Southwest Memorial Campus event site and Walgreens Cascade Park are the only locations accepting sharps and syringes for disposal from noncommercial sources only. Additionally, all event sites will collect vape pens and e‐cigarettes without batteries for disposal. 

Community‐based medicine take‐back events and year-round disposal programs are the only safe and most environmentally protective way to dispose of medication. Medicine should never be flushed or thrown in the trash as it pollutes the environment and waterways, puts kids and pets at risk for accidental ingestion and poisonings, and could be retrieved and misused by someone it wasn’t prescribed for.

Kelley Groen‐Sieckmann, Community Prevention Project Coordinator with the Central Vancouver Coalition and ESD 112 said, “Take back events are meant to promote safe medication disposal and encourage community members to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a standard practice for preventing prescription drug misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting, reducing the risk for accidental ingestion or poisonings, and preventing medication from ending up in landfills and our drinking water.

“Statistics show that 75 percent of opioid misuse starts with people using medication that wasn’t prescribed for them – usually taken from a friend or family member, and each year over 60,000 children under age six end up in emergency rooms from accidentally ingesting medication,” explains Groen‐Sieckmann. “However, simple steps like properly disposing of medications and storing medicine in a locked location can help prevent accidental poisonings, prescription drug misuse, and overall decrease the spread of the opioid problem we are seeing in our region and across the country,” she added. 

Medicine take‐back events in Southwest Washington are funded in partnership with Washington State Health Care Authority, law enforcement, and youth substance misuse prevention coalitions. For more info about the event, visit https://bit.ly/3UeBKvf. If you’re unable to make it to the April 27 event, you can find a year-round medicine disposal site or order free envelopes to dispose of medicine by mail at MedTakeBackWashington.org. Take the pledge to lock your meds and learn about the benefits and how to store medication in a locked location at www.LocksSaveLives.org.  

ABOUT CENTRAL VANCOUVER COALITION:

Supported by the fiscal agent ESD 112, Central Vancouver Coalition is a Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative coalition formed in 2018 to reduce and prevent youth substance use by building an inclusive, resilient, and connected community through awareness, education, and collaboration. As a community mobilizer, we promote resilience and growth through community and strive to create a culture promoting healthy choices, advocating for initiatives and policies that protect, empower and nurture youth, and facilitating positive opportunities for youth to be involved and thrive. For more info, visit www.centralvancoalition.org.  

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Educational Service District 112 is happy to announce participation in a new three-year initiative that will provide funding to expand programs and supports that will help students find ways to transition from high school into postsecondary education opportunities, including two- and four-year degrees, apprenticeships, and valued credentials needed for more than 70% of the region’s jobs. The initiative will include a particular focus on those facing the most significant barriers to opportunity, including students from rural and low-income backgrounds and Black, Latino, and Indigenous students. ESD 112 is one of four regional partnerships in Washington state that will participate in this pioneering initiative, the Horizons Grant Program, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“The Horizons Grant Program is empowering rural schools and their higher education allies to launch innovative advising roles,” said Vickei Hrdina, Director of Career Readiness & STEM Initiative Programs at ESD 112. “These positions directly link students’ post-high school goals with mentorship, dual enrollment opportunities, financial guidance for further education, and customized support tailored for rural students.”

For over 50 years, ESD 112 has enhanced educational equity and opportunities in Southwest Washington and beyond. We support teaching and learning and offer business and administrative expertise to large and small school districts. Working with education and community partners, we serve over 99,000 K-12 students across 30 public districts, 34 private schools, and two state schools. We also directly impact approximately 17,000 children annually throughout our region and state, providing essential resources and opportunities for every child to succeed.

The Horizons Grant Program provides a comprehensive support system offering funding and technical assistance. This assistance is crucial for learning about and implementing proven strategies that facilitate students’ progression beyond high school. Moreover, it empowers regions to harness data effectively, ensuring programs are finely tuned to student needs.

Each regional partnership has received an initial planning grant to collaborate with technical experts. These partnerships are crucial for setting concrete goals and crafting detailed implementation plans due for finalization this fall, with subsequent funding to support these plans.

Nearly 90% of Washington’s high school students express a desire to continue their education. In Southwest Washington, less than 45% of high school graduates pursue further education or training, and only 38% complete credential programs – a number that drops to 23% in rural areas. The Horizons Grant Program aims to bridge this gap by focusing on local empowerment and resources.

ESD 112 will administer the funds to partners throughout the Southwest Washington region, including:

• School districts: Ocean Beach, Naselle-Grays River Valley, Wahkiakum, Castle Rock, Toutle Lake, Kalama, Hockinson, Trout Lake, Glenwood, Stevenson-Carson, White Salmon Valley, Klickitat, Lyle, Wishram
• Colleges: WSU Vancouver, Lower Columbia College, Clark College
• Other partners supporting this initiative: Workforce Southwest Washington, the South Central Workforce Board, the Columbia River, Cowlitz, and Mid-Columbia Economic Development Councils, the Greater Vancouver Chamber, Skamania County Chamber of Commerce, and two REACH 21st Century Learning Centers.

The funding will ultimately enhance the visibility and accessibility of postsecondary options to high school students, countering the decline in interest observed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Horizons initiative is allowing our rural schools to directly partner with higher education and workforce partners and reframe the way advising for what comes beyond high school,” said Hrdina. “What we hope to create is a more seamless transition from high school to a credential program where support is shared between schools, higher education, families and communities.”

The partnership between ESD 112, the Gates Foundation, and local educational institutions under the Horizons Grant Program heralds a new era of postsecondary educational opportunity and equity. By combining resources, expertise, and a deep understanding of community needs, we are set to make a profound impact on Southwest Washington communities.

DATE: Monday, April 29, 2024

TIME: 6 p.m

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center and via Zoom

ADDRESS: 15916 NE 182^nd Ave, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

The Ridgefield community is invited to join us in celebrating the impressive talents and artistic achievements of Ridgefield School District’s exceptional student artists! The RSD Art Show will be held on Tuesday, May 14 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at the Ridgefield High School, 2630 S. Hillhurst Road in Ridgefield.

This exciting event will feature artwork from students in grades K-12. From drawings and paintings to sculptures and puppets, you'll see a variety of creative pieces from the minds of our community’s best young artists.

Join us for an evening of celebration and inspiration as we recognize outstanding student achievements with awards presented by our school board, community partners, and visual arts faculty. Our regional award winners from the high school ESD 112 Art Show will also be featured before they advance to OSPI’s Washington State Art Show at the end of May.

Superintendent candidate finalist Chris Fritsch has been selected as the next superintendent of Castle Rock School District. The decision was made at the most recent Board Meeting on April 24, 2024 in a unanimous 5-0 board vote in favor of his selection. Prior to the selection, candidates spent the day in interviews with staff, students, and community members.

“We are confident that Chris’s highly qualified and versatile leadership will move our district forward and enhance the educational experience for our students,” remarked Vilas Sundberg, Board Chair.

Fritsch, who led the Pendleton School District as Superintendent from 2017 to 2022, brings a wealth of experience from various teaching and leadership roles, including principal in Ocean Shores School District and over 20 years in Longview Public Schools as a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant superintendent. During his tenure at Pendleton, Fritsch forged partnerships for comprehensive student support, emphasizing safety and success for all. He oversaw the creation of an elementary afterschool program with the local Parks and Recreation department, collaborated with Blue Mountain Community College to establish college campus visits, and created a counseling position that worked closely with the high school’s student assistance program.

“It is an honor to be chosen to lead the Castle Rock School District,” Fritsch said. “I look forward to the opportunities before me. I am committed to providing our students and staff a safe and caring culture where all feel they belong and are valued.”

Fritsch has also been active in various activities and community groups throughout his career, including as an active member of the Pendleton Rotary and serving on the Pendleton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the city’s Progress Board. He currently volunteers for PeaceHealth in Longview. Fritsch and his wife, Susie, have four grown children and nine grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys the outdoors, gardening, and college football.

Fritsch will assume his duties as superintendent effective July 1, 2024.

Following an extensive search process, two finalist candidates, Chris Fritsch and Dr. James Shank, have been selected; Final interviews to be held 4/24/2024

In a special meeting on Saturday, April 20, the Castle Rock School District Board of Directors named two finalists in the district’s search for a new superintendent.  

The two finalist candidates are:

• Chris Fritsch, who led the Pendleton School District as superintendent from 2017 to 2022, brings a wealth of experience from various teaching and leadership roles, including principal in Ocean Shores and over 20 years in Longview as a teacher, coach, principal, and assistant superintendent. 
• Dr. James Shank served as superintendent in Idaho Falls and most recently in North Beach for a combined 15 years. He has a diverse background in education, including roles as a special education teacher, principal, and director of special education. Shank is a native of Longview.

The selections followed an extensive community engagement process that included an online survey with over 200 respondents and focus groups that included all levels of staff, families, students, and community leaders and members.

The board will conduct final interviews with the two candidates on April 24, 2024 and plans to appoint the new superintendent to start on July 1, 2024.

The board began interviewing semi-finalists for the position of superintendent on April 20, 2024, narrowing a pool of applicants down to the two finalists. The finalists, selected from a highly qualified and experienced candidate pool, are Chris Fritsch, former Superintendent of Pendleton School District, and Dr. James Shank, Superintendent of North Beach School District. 

“Meeting such qualified candidates who align so closely with our district’s values and priorities has been a true pleasure,” said Vilas Sundberg, Castle Rock Board Chair. “Each candidate brought a unique set of skills and experiences, yet our finalists stood out as embodying the qualities most valued by our staff, families, and community members in Castle Rock School District’s next leader.”

For more information, please visit our website at https://www.crschools.org/school_board/  or join us on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 4:15 & 5:00 at Castle Rock Middle School and meet each candidate.

Kinderpalooza, a fun event for Kelso kindergartners, early learners, and their families, is Tuesday, May 7, at Coweeman Middle School (2000 Allen St, Kelso) from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. The highly-anticipated happening is a great way to introduce young learners to Kelso School District and get them excited about entering kindergarten.

Every elementary school in Kelso will have a booth with kinder teachers, fun ideas, give-aways, and even some school mascots will be present. Community organizations and resources will also be on-site, including Kelso Public Library, Girl Scouts, Youth and Family Link, Head Start, and Cowlitz Community Network.

At this event you can:

• Register for school if needed (even if you’ve already registered, please come) 
• Meet Kelso staff 
• Board and ride a school bus 
• Learn about summer learning activities in our community 
• Get information about the breakfast and lunch program 
• Learn how to become a parent volunteer 
• Talk to a school nurse about medications and immunizations 
• Take a picture at the Class of 2037 photo booth 
• Enjoy some snacks 
• AND MORE!!!!

For additional information or questions, families can contact their school office or email ly.learning@kelsosd.org">early.learning@kelsosd.org. 

Can’t make it to Kinderpalooza?

Kindergarten registration is open in Kelso for children who will be five years old by August 31, 2024.  There are two ways to register:

1. Fill out a paper packet. Enrollment packets may be picked up at any elementary school or downloaded from the Kelso School District (KSD) website at bit.ly/enrollatksd.
2. Enroll online at bit.ly/enrollatksd. 

To determine which school children should attend, families can enter their address at bit.ly/school-site. Documents needed for enrollment include: birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. 

Applications opened on March 1 for Transition to Kindergarten (TK) and Preschool Pups. These programs serve early learners ages 3 to 4.  

TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN (TK)

Transition to Kindergarten (TK) is a FREE pre-kindergarten program for children who will be four years old by August 31, 2024, and would benefit from additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten the following year. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators.

• Full day, five days a week, starting September 3, 2024
• Access to transportation (for those not in identified walking boundaries), specialists, recess, lunch, and all aspects of the kindergarten school day 
• To the greatest extent possible, students will be placed for TK at their home school

Families can learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early and can apply for the program online at bit.ly/tk24-25app.

PRESCHOOL PUPS

Preschool Pups is a FREE, inclusive preschool program comprised of typically-developing children who play and learn alongside children with disabilities. This program is housed at Catlin site and open to all Kelso families.

• Open to three- and four-year-olds, must turn three by August 31, 2024
• Morning and afternoon sessions, four half-days a week, starting September 3, 2024
• Morning session provides breakfast; afternoon session provides lunch

Families can learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early and can apply for the program online at bit.ly/pups24-25app.

Not sure which program is right for your child? For a detailed comparison between TK, Preschool Pups, and Head Start—including program staffing, calendars, and qualifications—visit bit.ly/ksd-early or click here for the document in English, and here for it in Spanish. 

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

(Springfield, Ore.) April 25, 2024—PacificSource Community Solutions, part of the PacificSource family of companies that provides Medicaid services, has provided a $4 million low-interest loan to help Homes for Good Housing Agency increase the production of affordable housing across Lane County. The funding, sourced from PacificSource’s Lane County Coordinated Care Organization’s reserves, will support a wide array of pre-construction actions, including land acquisition, design services, cost estimating, and environmental reviews. 

The loan terms include a low interest rate of 0.33%, to be repaid annually. This loan coupled with other Homes for Good funds that are dedicated to housing production will increase Homes for Good's capacity to deliver affordable housing production to address the housing crisis in Lane County. 

“This transformational loan is the result of a dynamic partnership between Homes for Good and PacificSource Community Solutions to address health disparities experienced by low-income Lane County residents by building more affordable housing. Access to flexible pre-development funding is crucial to increasing housing production in our community,” said Homes for Good Executive Director Jacob Fox. 

PacificSource Community Solutions has been working closely with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) over the past several years on a plan to allow Coordinated Care Organizations to utilize cash reserves and execute a loan with a local housing entity to support housing efforts.

“OHA is proud to be part of this first-of-its-kind local partnership utilizing Medicaid reserves to support more affordable housing to people in Lane County and lift up the work that Homes for Good is doing,” said Dave Baden, deputy director for programs and policy. “Looking for ways to support local efforts through flexible policy and investing in health-related social needs like housing is vital to improving health outcomes in Oregon.”

“We extend our gratitude to the OHA for their instrumental role in facilitating this loan program, a pivotal initiative aligning with our overarching mission to enhance the well-being of our communities. Housing stands as a cornerstone of this endeavor, and their support underscores its critical importance in fostering thriving, resilient communities,” said Erin Fair Taylor PacificSource’s vice president of Medicaid plans. “Most importantly, these funds will help address social determinants of health needs for the community, provide housing security for low-income residents, and target housing development in areas with access to jobs, schools, health care, and transportation.”

About PacificSource Community Solutions:

PacificSource Community Solutions is part of the PacificSource family of companies that provides Medicaid services to Central Oregon and the Columbia Gorge, as well as Lane, Marion, and Polk Counties. 

Founded in 1933, PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. PacificSource has staff that live and work locally to serve our members throughout Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1,900 people and serves over 600,000 individuals throughout the Greater Northwest. For more information, visit PacificSource.com.

About Homes for Good:

Homes for Good is Lane County’s housing agency and our primary work is to help low-income residents with the logistics of affordable housing. At a higher level, we are neighbors united to get every Lane County resident who needs help, into a home. For more information visit HomesforGood.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-26-24

Social Goods: Beer&Pizza Unveils Yamhill County's only Premier Timbers and Thorns Official Sport Pub

Newberg, Oregon - April 26, 2024 - Social Goods proudly announces its placement as Yamhill County's exclusive destination for soccer enthusiasts and craft beer aficionados alike. Situated in the heart of Newberg, Oregon, Social Goods emerges as the community's go-to spot for sports, camaraderie, and exceptional libations.

Dedicated to the spirit of local pride and the love of the game, Social Goods distinguishes itself as the sole Timbers and Thorns Official Sports Pub in Yamhill County. Boasting a vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities, the venue provides soccer fans with an unparalleled viewing experience.

What sets Social Goods apart is its extensive selection of libations, featuring over 40 taps of craft local beer and an impressive array of over 1000 options in the refrigerator. Whether patrons prefer a refreshing pint of a local favorite or wish to explore new and exciting brews, Social Goods offers a diverse and enticing selection to suit every taste.

"We are thrilled to introduce Social Goods as the premier destination for sports enthusiasts and beer lovers in Yamhill County," said Robin Sikkens, Owner. "With our dedication to showcasing the best of local craft beer and providing an immersive soccer-watching experience, we aim to create a welcoming environment where friends and family can come together to enjoy great moments."

In addition to its exceptional beverage offerings, Social Goods provides a welcoming space for patrons to gather, socialize, and cheer on their favorite teams. With multiple screens strategically placed throughout the venue, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the action from every angle.

From thrilling game-day experiences to casual hangouts with friends and family, Social Goods promises to be the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a dynamic blend of sports, community, and outstanding craft beer.

For more information about Social Goods and its upcoming events, visit www.socialgoodsmarket.com or follow them on social media @socialgoodsmarket

About Social Goods:

Located in the heart of Newberg, Oregon, Social Goods is Yamhill County's premier Timbers and Thorns Official Sport Pub. With over 40 taps of craft local beer, an extensive selection of over 1000 options in the refrigerator, and a vibrant atmosphere, Social Goods offers an unparalleled experience for sports enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. Whether you're cheering on your favorite team or simply enjoying a night out with friends and family, Social Goods is the ultimate destination for great moments and memorable experiences.

Contact:

Danny Sikkens, Executive Chef, owner
500 E. 1^st Street, Newberg OR 97132
971-333-8466

(End of Press Release)

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-26-24

Social Goods: Beer&Pizza Unveils Yamhill County's only Premier Timbers and Thorns Official Sport Pub

Newberg, Oregon - April 26, 2024 - Social Goods proudly announces its placement as Yamhill County's exclusive destination for soccer enthusiasts and craft beer aficionados alike. Situated in the heart of Newberg, Oregon, Social Goods emerges as the community's go-to spot for sports, camaraderie, and exceptional libations.

Dedicated to the spirit of local pride and the love of the game, Social Goods distinguishes itself as the sole Timbers and Thorns Official Sports Pub in Yamhill County. Boasting a vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities, the venue provides soccer fans with an unparalleled viewing experience.

What sets Social Goods apart is its extensive selection of libations, featuring over 40 taps of craft local beer and an impressive array of over 1000 options in the refrigerator. Whether patrons prefer a refreshing pint of a local favorite or wish to explore new and exciting brews, Social Goods offers a diverse and enticing selection to suit every taste.

"We are thrilled to introduce Social Goods as the premier destination for sports enthusiasts and beer lovers in Yamhill County," said Robin Sikkens, Owner. "With our dedication to showcasing the best of local craft beer and providing an immersive soccer-watching experience, we aim to create a welcoming environment where friends and family can come together to enjoy great moments."

In addition to its exceptional beverage offerings, Social Goods provides a welcoming space for patrons to gather, socialize, and cheer on their favorite teams. With multiple screens strategically placed throughout the venue, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the action from every angle.

From thrilling game-day experiences to casual hangouts with friends and family, Social Goods promises to be the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a dynamic blend of sports, community, and outstanding craft beer.

For more information about Social Goods and its upcoming events, visit www.socialgoodsmarket.com or follow them on social media @socialgoodsmarket

About Social Goods:

Located in the heart of Newberg, Oregon, Social Goods is Yamhill County's premier Timbers and Thorns Official Sport Pub. With over 40 taps of craft local beer, an extensive selection of over 1000 options in the refrigerator, and a vibrant atmosphere, Social Goods offers an unparalleled experience for sports enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. Whether you're cheering on your favorite team or simply enjoying a night out with friends and family, Social Goods is the ultimate destination for great moments and memorable experiences.

Contact:

Danny Sikkens, Executive Chef, owner
500 E. 1^st Street, Newberg OR 97132
971-333-8466

(End of Press Release)

 

BEND, OR — Calling all writers! Submissions for the 10th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize close May 1, 2024. This prestigious award, a program of the High Desert Museum, celebrates proposals for outstanding literary nonfiction dedicated to the literal and figurative exploration of desert landscapes. 

This year’s winner will receive a $3,000 cash award and be recognized with a reception and reading at the Museum in Bend, Oregon on September 26, 2024. Tickets are available now at highdesertmuseum.org/2024-waterston-ceremony. The winner and finalists will be selected by the 2024 guest judge Sam Waterston – renowned actor and brother of Prize founder Ellen Waterston.

Known for his work in theater, television and film, Sam Waterston gained stardom portraying DA  Jack McCoy on the NBC crime series Law & Order (1994–2010, 2022–), for which he has received a Screen Actors Guild Award, Golden Globe Award and Emmy Award. Waterston will announce the 2024 winner and address attendees during the Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremonies either on video or in person alongside the 2024 Prize winner and the 2024 keynote speaker, Tucker Malarkey, who will attend in person.

Nationally bestselling author of the critically acclaimed and national bestselling novels An Obvious Enchantment and Resurrection, Malarkey’s first major work of nonfiction, Stronghold, describes one man’s journey to save salmon habitat in the U.S. and Russia. Stronghold was an editor’s pick for The New York Times, National Book Review, Outside and Forbes. With a career that began at The Washington Post, Malarkey’s love of human culture and wilderness have since taken her all over the world.

The Prize was established in 2014, inspired by author and poet Ellen Waterston’s love of the High Desert — a region that has been her muse for more than 40 years. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize celebrates writers whose nonfiction book proposal reflects a similar connection to a desert, recognizing the vital role deserts play in ecosystems and the human narrative.

Emerging, mid-career and established nonfiction writers who illustrate artistic excellence, sensitivity to place and desert literacy with the desert as both subject and setting are invited to apply. The award supports literary nonfiction writers who are completing, proposing or considering the creation of a book-length manuscript. It is recommended that the writing sample submitted is part of the proposed project or closely represents it in content and style.

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and how to submit an entry, visit highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize. The Prize is possible with support from The Source Weekly. Submissions will be accepted through May 1, 2024.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington is currently open for Summer Enrollment. Sign up today! For additional information please visit our website www.mybgc.org

On April 30th, 2024 at 10am at Hudson’s Bay High School, the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools and Vancouver Public Schools (VPS) is breaking ground on a new building to support construction trades and maritime pathways for VPS students. 

In January of 2023, the Endeavour Fund learned of the need to build a new space to support the existing

construction trades program at VPS. The timeline for this project has moved quickly, thanks to two generous

donors. A seed gift of $2,000,000 from the Endeavour Fund and a $500,000 gift from an anonymous donor,

along with the support from community partners and the City of Vancouver only 16 months has passed since we first thought of this project and now, we are breaking ground!

We invite you to join us on this momentous occasion. Local elected officials, VPS leadership, current trade students, and community partners will all be present at this event.

Event Details:

CTE Project Groundbreaking

April 30th, 2024 at 10am

At Hudson’s Bay High School, east side of school, near E Reserve St.

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

Date: Wed, May 8th, 2024

Time: 7 pm

Location: Kiggins Theatre Vancouver, Wa

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_may_8_my_life_disaster/

Natural hazards are an unavoidable part of everyday life. In many cases, it’s the proverbial “it’s not if, but when” they might occur. Whether a wildfire threatens a local community or an earthquake devastates an entire region, the moment a hazard becomes a disaster there is a vital need for those impacted to have access to critical information. But where do you find timely, credible information? Well, the details of what has happened come from researchers and investigators, while the information people receive is shared by public information officers. Today’s speaker is both.

Steven Sobieszczyk is a scientist and spokesperson with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). While “Sobie” spent most of his career researching landslide hazards, sediment transport, and flooding, he now focuses on science communication and public information. Steve is a multihazard first responder and has spoken extensively about everything from earthquakes in Puerto Rico and eruptions in Hawaii to wildfires and floods across the U.S.

Join us for what should be a captivating evening of stories and insights into what it’s like to live a life where each day is one disaster after another. 

Steven Sobieszczyk has spent 23 years with the USGS. Currently, he serves as media lead for natural hazards at the bureau. Between 2005 and 2010, Steve earned degrees in landslide engineering geology, hydrology, and geographic information systems (GIS) from Portland State University. Besides his research, Sobie’s passion is to help others communicate better, regardless of their background or interests. Never satisfied, Steve has developed broad expertise, including being a professor, author, videographer, and artist. He is a co-founder of the Association of Science Communicators (ASC) and spends part of the year as an incident first responder for wildfires and other natural disasters.

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

Vancouver, Washington—April 24, 2024—Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is excited to host its high-performance Blind Soccer Camp in Sandy, OR for the third consecutive year, from April 26-28, 2024. With the largest attendance to date, 23 campers—with competitive blind soccer or goalball skills—will attend this elite, invitation only session for youth and young adults, ages 10-21. Campers will receive intensive instruction, practice and gameplay in the Paralympic sports of goalball and blind soccer.

This high-performance camp session is one of seven sessions offered through NWABA’s Camp Spark program and will be held at Camp Namanu (10300 SE Camp Namanu Rd. Sandy, OR 97055). A majority of the activities and training sessions will take place on Saturday, April 27 from 9:00 am-5:00 pm and Sunday, April 28 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.

Camp Spark is a year-round camp program for children, youth and young adults who are blind and visually impaired throughout Washington and Oregon. Camp Spark hosts seven session throughout the year, with one summer session tailored specifically to children, youth and young adults with multiple disabilities in addition to being blind or visually impaired.

Camp Spark is partially funded by the generosity of our individual donors, foundations, state grants and corporate partners; however, additional support is critically needed to deliver a successful camp. Donations to support Camp Spark can be made online at www.nwaba.org/donate or by mailing a check to PO BOX 61489, Vancouver, WA, 98666. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Anne Coleman, Marketing & Communications Manager at 360-768-5647 or media@nwaba.org. 

About NWABA: 
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides more than 1,900 children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

Portland, OR - Grace Memorial Episcopal Church Parking Lot: April 27^th, 2024  12-3 PM

The Portland Lloyd Lions Club will host the Paper Shredding Fundraiser on April 27, 2024. This event is part of a series of events throughout Oregon celebrating the Lions connection to Helen Keller. And their promise to address preventable blindness and hearing loss, in partnership with their Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation.

Event Details

On-Site Secure Paper Shredding Fundraiser

Saturday, 4/27 from 12-3 PM

Grace Memorial Episcopal Church Parking Lot

1535 NE 17th Ave, Portland 97232

Suggested donation:  $15 per standard File Box (15 x 12 x 10, approx. 25-30 lbs.)

We try to price this 1/4 to 1/3 less than typical retail cost to make it a good deal!

All funds received provide Sight & Hearing services to low income community members in need.

Together the Lions Clubs of Oregon, OLSHF and its partners offer access to people for critical sight saving surgeries and treatments; secure new eyeglasses; help people who can’t afford eyeglasses and hearing aids, and manage the largest vision screening program in the US. In 2015, OLSHF launched the LEAP Optical Finishing Lab to manufacture high quality, low cost eyeglasses. Annually, over 2,000 Oregonians receive new eyeglasses built by their lab. 

About OLSHF & the Lions of Oregon 

The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) serves communities statewide. Since their formation in 1959, they have created programs in response to the need for sight and hearing assistance and partnered with medical professionals for discounted rates. They have built upon the promise made to Helen Keller by creating a continuum of care for people who lack access to vision and hearing services. Learn more at www.olshf.org or www.facebook.com/olshf.

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects. http://www.md36lionsclubs.org/

About Lions Clubs International:
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Our 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs provide humanitarian service in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the globe. Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth initiatives and strengthened communities through hands on service and humanitarian projects. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit www.lionsclubs.org.

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97% of Nurses Vote “No Confidence” in Select Members of the County’s Health Corrections Administration

(Portland, OR) - In an effort to improve healthcare outcomes and address longstanding problems, frontline nurses at Multnomah County corrections facilities are calling on county commissioners to remove multiple members of the county health department’s corrections management team. Nurses are demanding several administrators be replaced following allegations of gross mismanagement that undermined patient safety, created a hostile work environment and led to a health staffing crisis. 

On April 25, nurses shared the results of a no confidence vote and a letter with county commissioners calling for Multnomah Corrections Health Director Zachary Myque Obiero and nursing supervisor Nikki Propert to be removed from their positions and that recent manager Rachael Lee be prevented from resuming a corrections health leadership role.

• Click here to read nurses' letter.

In February, 97% of nurses working in corrections passed a vote of ‘no confidence’ in the health corrections administrators with ninety-five percent of nurses saying their working conditions have not improved over the last four years.

Nurses submitted additional evidence to county commissioners while also citing a National Institute of Corrections (NIC) Report released in January which documented “serious healthcare and operational issues … that do not comport with constitutional standards, accreditation standards, and professional practice standards” at Multnomah County corrections facilities. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents more than 220 frontline healthcare professionals working in the Multnomah County Health Department including 65 nurses working in Multnomah County corrections facilities including the Multnomah County Detention Center, Inverness Jail and the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Home. 

Nurses letter to county commissioners said in part: 

“Between an explosion of fentanyl use and a lingering physical and psychological toll from the COVID epidemic, Corrections Health (CH) and its Multnomah County clients are dealing with particularly unprecedented challenges. The deaths in custody have been devastating to our community of clients, their families, and our medical staff. CH needs strong leaders who are willing and able to navigate us through these difficult times and ensure the best possible health outcomes for the population we serve … We have attempted to engage with management in these meetings but have not seen improvements to our identified issues nor have we seen our desired outcomes to have been met. Therefore, we no longer have any confidence in select members of county health leadership. We are concerned that our vulnerable community is at risk as well as our safety.” 

Nurses’ advocacy comes on the heels of years of safety and staffing failures at Multnomah County jails including an unprecedented number of deaths of individuals in custody and the resignation of many experienced doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers.

Facing a years-long staff shortage, county corrections nurses have been forced to work a record number of overtime shifts in recent years–leading to further burnout and resignations.

In 2022, nurses were forced to work 550 mandatory overtime shifts. In 2023, nurses were forced to work 563 mandatory overtime shifts and the problem shows no signs of stopping. As of April 22, 2024, nurses have been forced to work 168 mandatory overtime shifts this year–averaging nearly one and a half mandatory overtime mandates a day.

In addition to replacing failed health corrections administrators, nurses called for more frontline involvement in hiring decisions, a closer working relationship with the sheriff’s office, assurance that nurses would not be retaliated against for speaking up and an increase in compensation to help recruit and retain new nurses. Currently, county corrections nurses make between $5-7 an hour less than local hospital nurses and are thousands of dollars behind other facilities’ standard hiring bonuses–making it extremely difficult to attract skilled healthcare workers. 

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With 2nd strike looming, nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services speak out hours ahead of contract mediation with PeaceHealth executives. 

Nurse Solidarity Action and Press Conference
Wednesday, April 24 at 9 a.m.
Public sidewalks near PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Riverbend’s main entrance
3333 Riverbend Dr, Springfield, OR 97477

WHAT: Home health and hospice nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services, elected leaders and community allies are holding a solidarity action April 24 to speak about the importance of local home care services ahead of a contract mediation session with PeaceHealth executives. Nurses have spent more than a year fighting for a fair contract to address record turnover and job vacancies at PeaceHealth’s home health and hospice agency–the region’s largest home health service provider. 

On April 16, nurses voted to authorize an open-ended strike against PeaceHealth to protest PeaceHealth’s unlawful unfair labor practices (ULPs) and reach a fair contract agreement that improves community healthcare. Wednesday’s solidarity action precedes a scheduled contract mediation session between Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) nurse leaders and PeaceHealth executives at Riverbend. Nurses and local elected officials will speak and take media questions at the event. Members of Oregon’s Congressional delegation have also taken action to support nurses and sent a letter to PeaceHealth executives on April 23 calling for a “fair settlement that demonstrates the respect that healthcare workers deserve.”

WHEN: Wednesday, April 24 at 9 a.m.

WHERE: Public sidewalks near PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Riverbend’s main entrance. (3333 Riverbend Dr, Springfield, OR 97477). Near the intersection of Cardinal Way and MLK Jr. Pkwy.

WHO: ONA nurses with PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services and Riverbend, elected officials and community allies are scheduled to speak, including 

• Eugene Mayor Lucy Vinis
• Lane County commissioner Laurie Trieger
• Lane County commissioner Heather Buch
• Springfield city councilor Kori Rodley
• Eugene Springfield IAFF Local 851 trustee Brett Deedon
• ONA bargaining unit chair Jo Turner, RN, hospice nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services
• ONA bargaining unit chair Chris Rompala, RN, nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Riverbend

WHY: Local home health and hospice nurses have endured 45+ contract bargaining sessions with PeaceHealth executives since Feb. 2023 including six sessions with a federal mediator. After holding a limited duration strike Feb. 10 - 24, nurses have voted to approve an open-ended strike to protest PeaceHealth’s unlawful unfair labor practices (ULPs) and reach a fair contract agreement that improves community healthcare. Despite nurses and community leaders’ best efforts, PeaceHealth executives continue demanding local nurses accept nearly 5% lower pay than PeaceHealth pays hospital nurses in Eugene/Springfield and hospital and home care nurses in Florence–despite both groups of home care nurses sharing managers and staff meetings and regularly caring for the same patients. 

PeaceHealth’s continued disrespect towards local nurses and their patients is driving nurses to leave–threatening our community’s health and exacerbating the care shortage. The nurse bargaining team intends to work towards a positive resolution in mediation but will call for a strike if they believe it is necessary to move PeaceHealth to meet the needs of patients, providers and our community. If a strike is called, ONA will provide our community and PeaceHealth with a 10-day notice to allow PeaceHealth executives adequate time to connect patients to alternate care options or to join us at the table and reach a fair agreement. 

The ONA represents more than 90 frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services and nearly 1500 nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Riverbend. 

Join us for a springtime train ride in vintage and open air rail cars along the Willamette River in the heart of Portland. Spring brings out the best in Oregon’s landscape and wildlife, offering an opportunity to glimpse of a bevy of deer!

Snacks and adult & kid-friendly beverages will be available for purchase. Onboard activities for kids of all ages.

Saturday, May 11 – 1:00pm, 2:30pm and 4:00pm

Tickets: $20 for adults and $15 for kiddos 3-12. $18 for military and seniors. Children 2 and under ride free (on lap)

45-minute round-trip train rides pulled by the BNSF 3613 diesel locomotive will depart from the Enginehouse at 2250 SE Water Avenue in Portland.

In addition, we will have a steam locomotive displayed on the turntable and will offer demonstrations of a full rotation every hour beginning at 1:00pm.

Police Activities League (PAL) of Southwest Washington announces it is expanding their literacy program in Clark County with generous support from North Star Restaurants Inc. and Wellpoint Washington.

Police Activities League (PAL) of Southwest Washington started their Literacy Program over 20 years ago in Clark County and the program has only continued to grow since. 

This program initially began with PAL in partnership with Vancouver Police Department, to build positive relationships between youth and law enforcement by promoting literacy at local elementary schools. 

Three to four times a month, law enforcement officers from some of their 8 partner agencies visit a pre-selected school and read with students for the PAL Literacy program. During the event officers show off their police vehicles, let the kids meet their police dogs, demonstrate use of other special tools, and talk to them about the importance of being safe in their community, the event serves as an opportunity to promote positive relationships between youth and law enforcement while promoting literacy at the same time. Each student that attends a PAL literacy event also receives a brand-new book of their choice to take home. 

In 2023, PAL held 28 literacy events and distributed over 2,500 books to youth. In 2024, the PAL Literacy Program is aiming to serve 30+ elementary schools across Clark County and is well on track to hit that number. 

Additionally, this program is intentionally targeted at second graders with the hope that by the time they reach 3rd grade (the first year of state testing) they have gained enough knowledge to pass standardized English Language Arts (ELA) tests required for federal and state accountability. These tests continue through grade school and ultimately help aim to excel students through graduation. 

This year, the Police Activities League (PAL) of Southwest Washington has teamed up with North Star Restaurants Inc. and Wellpoint, WA to support PAL’s growing Literacy Program. 

Wellpoint believes focusing on the whole person is the foundation to living well because health is beyond physical - it’s recognizing the behavioral and social drivers that impact it, too. 

"Wellpoint recognizes the significant impact of early reading on physical and mental health, so we have channeled our deep-rooted community commitment into supporting PAL's literacy initiative," said Lisa Bogard, President of Wellpoint Washington. “Through our collaborative efforts, we can expand the program's reach, make books more accessible to children, and promote healthier, better and more prosperous futures."

North Star Restaurants Inc. is owned and operated by Vancouver locals Matt and Val Hadwin and is comprised of 20 McDonald’s franchises throughout Western Washington. Their mission is to help as many students as possible in our communities, reach their fullest potential. One of three distinct areas they support through their Archways to Opportunity program is education. Similarly, to the PAL Literacy Program, Archways to Opportunity helps McDonald’s Crew Members reach their career goals through education advancement. 

"We are thrilled to be partnering with PAL - an invaluable organization that does incredible work for our schools," said Val Hadwin, Owner Operator of North Star Restaurants Inc. "Literacy among kids is important now more than ever. That's why programs like PAL and our own "Archways to Opportunity" program are so crucial these days. They exist to help students throughout Clark County reach their highest potential." 

All PAL programs are funded through donations, not local government funding. “The contributions from local champions like North Star Restaurants Inc, and Wellpoint, WA allow PAL to achieve our mission of promoting positive relationships between youth and law enforcement”, Said PAL Executive Director Jesse Jimenez. “With their support, we are excited to continue to expand this program to serve more schools in Clark County”. 

PAL MISSION: The Police Activities League of Southwest Washington is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting positive relationships between law enforcement officers and the youth through a broad range of educational programs and recreational opportunities.

For more information about PAL of Southwest Washington and its programs, please visit: https://palofswwa.org 

A completely NEW Maker market experience! Wood & Other Wonders Market @wowmarketpdx created by
Urbanite PDX & Rescue Oregon Timber to build a home for hands-on, engaged, community fun
Unlike any other event in Portland, this market promises to be an exciting blend of live maker demonstrations, interactive activities, teaching moments and ‘make-n-take’ projects for all ages: Mobile blacksmithy, active wheel throwing, jewelry making, weaving, sewing, screen printing, hammering, hand building, celebrity guests, setting, sewing, sawing & so much more
 

We invite families to come have fun reconnecting to their joy of making with our cities vibrant artisans, makers & builders!
 

When: The Second Sunday of each month 10am-4pm
 

May 12
First class feature - Tree to Table Pdx & Charcuterie Me, Mothers Day Make-N-Take Charcuterie Board, build and fill start to finish charcuterie experience for all types of Mom-Types!
Learn woodworking, Build & Finish a board, Fill It with local charcuterie delights & Sip the day away
 

Additional Dates: 
June 9th
July 14th
August 11th
September 8th
October 13th
 

Where:
Urbanite Pdx - 1005 SE Grand Ave -in the fenced MLK-side Event Lot
 

Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days

Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar. 

Oregon Spring Cleanup History

Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.

Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights

SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:

In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.

Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:

This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment. 

“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds. 

Photo Contest

There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by 
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!

Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.

Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024

Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, PepsiCo, and Wells Fargo.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days

Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar. 

Oregon Spring Cleanup History

Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.

Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights

SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:

In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.

Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:

This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment. 

“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds. 

Photo Contest

There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by 
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!

Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.

Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024

Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Media Advisory - All Media Are Invited

SOLVE's Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 spans across Oregon and SW Washington with over 100 events. This hallmark event, celebrating Earth Day, unites volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Rooted in SOLVE's rich history, this event series merges two cherished events: the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup (1986) and SOLVE IT for Earth Day (1990). The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 is presented by Portland General Electric. It's an excellent opportunity for families, coworkers, and neighbors to bond while preserving Oregon's stunning locations.

Media are invited to document environmentally engaged citizens and interview SOLVE staff and partners at the following event:

What: Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon

When: Monday, April 22, 2024, 2 PM – 4 PM. Volunteers will start arriving after 1:45 PM.

Where: 1939 SW Morrison St Portland, OR 97205 | (Map Link)
We will be meeting outside of Sport Oregon.

This litter cleanup event taking place on Earth Day 2024 goes beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. Participants are invited for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance our local environment. This Earth Day event is presented by Swire Coca-Cola and TriMet.

The media should arrive at Sport Oregon by 1:45 PM. 

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, CEO, SOLVE 
• Josh Keller, Development Director, SOLVE
• Tia York, Manager of Media Relations, TriMet Public Affairs Division 

For more event details, please check the event page:
SOLVE | Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup (solveoregon.org)

Along with Portland General Electric, event sponsors of the Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.

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About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.