CORVALLIS, Ore. – On June 13, 2025, at 1:22 p.m., deputies from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash on Scenic Drive in Albany.

Upon arrival, deputies located a black 2010 Subaru Forester that had left the roadway and traveled down a steep embankment before colliding with a tree. The vehicle’s sole occupant, 36-year-old Ethan Ward Glaser of Albany, was pronounced deceased at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

A preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling southbound on Scenic Drive when, for reasons yet to be determined, the driver lost control and exited the roadway. There were no signs of additional passengers or other vehicles involved.

Scenic Drive between Pineview Drive and Valley View Drive was closed for approximately three hours while investigators processed the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Benton County Crash Team.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Ethan and would like to thank the Albany Fire Department, Albany Police Department, and Corvallis Police Department for their assistance.

If you have any additional information or witnessed the crash, please contact BCSO at BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or their tip line at 541-753-8477, re: case #2025-1500.
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June 11^th, 2025

UPDATE:  GRINCH STEALS VEHICLE AND PROWLS SEVERAL OTHER VEHICLES ON CHRISTMAS MORNING – ARREST MADE BY DETECTIVES.

Follow up investigation on this case was completed by the Camas Police Investigations Unit, who identified 23-year-old Jorge Reyes Ayala as the individual responsible for multiple thefts that occurred in the City of Camas on Christmas Day morning (12-25-24). On 6-11-25 detectives contacted Reyes Ayala at the Clark County Corrections Center and charged him with Auto Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, nine counts of Vehicle Prowl in the 2^nd Degree, and Theft in the 3^rd Degree.

Original Post December 26^th, 2024

GRINCH STEALS VEHICLE AND PROWLS SEVERAL OTHER VEHICLES ON CHRISTMAS MORNING - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND CORRECTED LICENSE PLATE

On December 25, 2024, several vehicles were prowled, and a vehicle was stolen from the Woodburn Neighborhood. The crimes occurred between 8:30-9:30 in the morning when many families were celebrating the holiday and children were enjoying the presents Santa had delivered in the night.

A dark gray Mazda CX3 with Washington license plate BSD5166 was stolen by the suspect, then used to drive around the neighborhood to prowl other vehicles. The suspect stole a variety of items from seven vehicles including garage door openers, a gift card, cash, and a cell phone.

The suspect was wearing a dark colored beanie, black hooded sweatshirt with white stripes on the shoulders and arms, light gray pants, and bright orange or red shoes with black laces.

Help us catch this grinch! If anyone sees the stolen vehicle and it is occupied, call 9-1-1. If anyone sees the vehicles and it is not occupied, call the non-emergency dispatch number at 3-1-1. If anyone has tips or information about the identity of the involved suspect, email Officer Tim Fellows at tfellows@cityofcamas.us

Please remember to remove items from vehicles, secure vehicles by locking them and removing keys, and reporting any activity where it appears as if unfamiliar individuals are trying to access vehicles.

Clark County Fire District 3 is proud to recognize the outstanding actions of American Medical Response (AMR) personnel during the June 10 residential fire in a manufactured home community in southwest Battle Ground. While this incident demanded a coordinated effort between fire and EMS personnel, the actions of AMR crews stood out and merit special acknowledgment.

“Our teams operated in sync across two evolving emergencies,” said Fire Chief Chris Drone. “The window rescue carried out by AMR occurred simultaneously as our crews initiated interior rescue operations. That kind of coordination is what saves lives.”

Key Roles During the Incident:

• While providing care on an unrelated medical call, AMR’s M1620 crew observed a nearby structure fire, contacted dispatch, and rescued a trapped occupant through a window before fire units had transitioned fully to the fire response.
• At the same time, FD3 personnel were coordinating a rapid entry and interior search, ultimately rescuing a second occupant from deeper within the home.
• Additional AMR crews took over care of the original medical patient, allowing FD3 firefighters to focus on fire suppression and search.
• Together, AMR and FD3 team members revived two unresponsive dogs, later coordinating with Northwest Vet ER for continued care.

This was a dynamic and rapidly evolving scene, and all personnel involved performed with skill, speed, and shared purpose. The successful outcome was a direct result of this coordinated response.

Recognized AMR Personnel:

Camille Burgess, Adam Lengvenis, Ruben Kovalenko
Kelly O’Loughlin, Taylor Baines
Spencer Brown, Adrian Nelson
Damin Martin, Ashlynn Staley

We thank our AMR partners for their decisive action and continued commitment to the health and safety of the communities we serve.

Battle Ground, WA — On the evening of June 10, Clark County Fire District 3 firefighters executed a remarkable rescue during a residential fire in a manufactured home community in southwest Battle Ground—while simultaneously responding to a separate medical emergency just across the street.

Crews were inside a nearby home providing care to a patient when they heard frantic cries for help. Looking outside, they saw smoke and flames coming from a neighboring residence, with an elderly man leaning from a bedroom window calling for assistance.

Without hesitation, the team divided their resources. Some remained with the medical patient, while others transitioned immediately into rescue operations.

Following the nationally recognized “two-in, one-out” safety protocol, firefighters entered the smoke-filled structure and quickly discovered a second occupant—an elderly woman—still trapped inside. Despite intense fire conditions and limited visibility, crews successfully removed both residents and transferred them to AMR teams for emergency medical care. AMR personnel were instrumental in assisting with both the rescue and immediate treatment of the victims.

In total, three individuals were transported to local hospitals:

- Patient 1 (from the original medical call): injuries unrelated to the fire
- Patient 2: treated for smoke inhalation
- Patient 3: treated for smoke inhalation and second- to third-degree burns

Firefighters also rescued two dogs from the structure and successfully revived both once brought outside.

Thanks to the rapid and coordinated response, the fire was knocked down quickly and contained primarily to a single room. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and Fire District 3 continues to monitor the conditions of all patients.

“The outcome last night could have been very different,” said Fire Chief Chris Drone. “Because of the resources made possible by our community’s support, lives—and pets—were saved.”

This life-saving operation underscores the critical importance of our three-person engine staffing—a standard we will soon be able to maintain consistently thanks to the voter-approved levy lid lift passed last year. Under Washington State law, interior rescue operations are prohibited unless at least three firefighters are on scene—two to enter and one to remain outside. Without that staffing level, this rescue would not have been officially allowed.

Clark County Fire District 3 extends its deep appreciation to:

- AMR for their vital assistance in patient care, rescue support, and hospital transport
- Battle Ground Police Department for securing the scene, managing traffic and bystanders, and assisting with evacuations to protect both civilians and firefighters

We are profoundly grateful to the residents of our community. Your investment in public safety continues to make a real and measurable difference.

Kelso, Wa – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, Longview Fire Department, and Cowlitz County Fire Districts 5 and 6 (Kalama and Castle Rock) responded to a shop fire in the 1700 block of Holcomb Rd. Saturday evening at 5:40. Fire crews arrived and reported the shop seventy-five percent involved in fire with multiple exposures (other structures and vehicles) at risk of catching fire.  Battalion Chief Dan Cothren requested a second alarm for more resources to protect the exposures and to extinguish the fire.  Three fire engines, fire water tenders, a medic unit, and three chief officers responded to the fire.  Cowlitz County sheriff deputies also responded for traffic control. 

The building is considered a total loss, according to fire officials.  Efforts from firefighters prevented the fire from spreading to nearby homes and vehicles.  The cause of the fire is under investigation, but it is believed to be accidental.  No injuries were reported. 

The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Oregon is asking for the public’s help in identifying a person-of-interest in a series of non-injury shootings in North Portland.

The depicted individual is a person of interest in three (3) non-injury shootings around Delta Park.  These shootings are believed to be directed at houseless individuals.  The incidents occurred on Saturday, May 31st at 1:28pm in the 3500 Block of N. Victory Boulevard, Saturday, June 7th at 2:42pm in the 1300 Block of Schmeer Road, and Sunday, June 8th at 1:41pm in the 1600 Block of N. Schmeer Road.  The person-of-interest is described as a white male in his 50’s riding a black electric bike.

If you know who this individual is or have any related information – Crime Stoppers is encouraging the community to provide an anonymous tip.

Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 for information reported to Crime Stoppers of Oregon that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime, but tipsters must remain anonymous. 

Secure and anonymous tips can be left at www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or you can visit the app store and download P3 tips for smartphones or tablets.

Gresham, Ore.— On June 13^th at about 7:30pm, Gresham police officers, assisted by deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, responded to a report of a physical disturbance on NE 162^nd Ave near NE Glisan St.  Witnesses reported one of the people involved in the disturbance was armed.  Officers developed probable cause to arrest the armed suspect for assault and other crimes.  When they attempted to contact him, he fled on foot. 

During the ensuing search, a sheriff’s deputy located the suspect in a nearby neighborhood, and an officer-involved shooting occurred.  During the incident, a Gresham police officer also deployed a 40mm less-lethal projectile.  Officers provided emergency medical care for the suspect until an ambulance arrived.  A handgun was recovered near where the suspect fell. The suspect was pronounced deceased after being taken to a local hospital. 

The deceased is not being identified at this time.  The involved deputy has been placed on critical incident leave, which is standard practice in officer-involved shootings and other critical incidents.  Because of the ongoing investigation, no further information can be released at this time.

The East County Major Crimes Team, a multi-agency team comprised of detectives from the Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Port of Portland Police Department, is investigating the incident.  When the investigation is complete, it will be reviewed by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. 

Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Dylan Lerch at ch@mcso.us">Dylan.Lerch@mcso.us.

Odell, Ore. – A structure fire in the 3100 block of Lingren Road has led to the death of a 64-year-old woman and the hospitalization of her husband.

At approximately 1:54 A.M. on June 10^th, 2025, Hood River County 911 received their first call of a structure fire at 3188 Lingren Road, in Odell. The first fire units with Wy’East Fire District arrived on scene at 2:08 A.M. and reported that the structure was fully involved. A 64-year-old male occupant made it out of the house and was transported by Life Flight to Portland in serious condition. Tragically, a 64-year-old female occupant was located deceased inside the home.

Investigators with the Oregon Fire Marshal’s Office, Hood River County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police are still on scene investigating the cause of the fire. At this time there is no reason to suspect anything other than a tragic accident.

The response included personnel and apparatus from Wy’East Fire District, Westside Fire District, Parkdale Fire District, Hood River Fire Department, and Cascade Locks Fire Department. The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the initial call.

At approximately 7:32 PM on June 12, Lebanon Fire District was dispatched to a motor vehicle collision in the 39000 block of Lacomb Drive. Upon arrival, crews found two vehicles with significant damage, one of which was on its roof with occupants trapped inside.

Downed power lines were draped across both vehicles, creating a hazardous scene and igniting a small brush fire that was initially inaccessible. Firefighters were unable to begin rescue efforts until power was confirmed to be shut off by utility personnel.

Once the area was deemed safe, crews worked rapidly to simultaneously extricate the victims and suppress the brush fire. One patient was airlifted to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.

Power was restored to the area around 3:00 AM. 

SUMMER BOATING AND WATER SAFETY

With nicer weather and summer vacations in full swing, many people are taking advantage of Oregon’s beautiful waterways. On a hot day, swimming and boating can be refreshing, but there are risks you should be aware of.

Be aware of water temperatures.

Cold water can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, changes in breathing, and can increase the risk of drowning. Water shock can happen within the first minute of exposure, leading to loss of muscle control and possibly hypothermia. Wearing a lifejacket may create extra time for help to arrive. See more information about the risks of cold-water hazards and resources on the National Weather Service page: www.weather.gov/safety/coldwater

Wear a life jacket.

Assign and fit each member of your onboard team with a life jacket before departure. Regulations vary by state, but children under 16 and all watersports riders should wear a life jacket on the water. Discover Boating has great guidelines for choosing the right flotation device: www.discoverboating.com/ownership/safety/life-jackets

Develop a float plan.

Whether you inform a family member or staff at your local marina, let someone else know where you’re going and how long you’ll be gone. A float plan can include the following information:

1. Name, address, and phone number of the trip leader and passengers
2. Boat type and registration information
3. Trip itinerary
4. Types of communication and signal equipment onboard, such as an Emergency Position
5. Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)

Take a boating safety course.
New boaters and experts alike need to be familiar with boating rules. Boating safety courses are inexpensive, offered locally, and often completed in a day, in-person or online.

Get a free vessel safety check.
The Lincoln Sheriff’s Office Marine Team and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offer complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of specific safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. Free of charge, they also offer virtual vessel exams. Contact a Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Deputy to complete your boat inspection.

Follow a pre-departure checklist.
Utilizing a pre-departure checklist is a helpful way to check the boat and ensure the proper gear is onboard.

Be weather-wise.
Always check local, route, and destination weather and water conditions before departure and ensure it is safe to go out. When in doubt, reschedule your boating, floating, or water fun.

Never drink and drive a boat.
Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal. Nearly half of all boating accidents involve alcohol. Designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock.

Be aware of carbon monoxide.
Maintain fresh air circulation throughout the boat. Educate all passengers about the symptoms of CO poisoning and where CO may accumulate.

Stay clear of the engine.
Drivers should always wear the boat’s engine cut-off switch lanyard. Keep watch around the propeller area when people are in the water. Never allow passengers to board or exit your boat from the water when engines are on or idling. Take extra precautions near boats towing skiers or tubers.

Never jump from a moving boat.

Passengers should never participate in boat jumping. Instead, wait to exit the boat once the captain has announced that the boat’s engine is off, and the boat is at a standstill. Jumping from a moving boat is extremely dangerous and can result in severe injury or death.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Team can answer questions and offers free vessel safety checks. Have a safe boating season.

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

SHERIFF’S OFFICE CITIZEN ACADEMY

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2025
 

6/10/25 – Lincoln County, OR
 

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce the return of the Sheriff’s Citizen Academy in September 2025. This free program provides community members with an opportunity to learn about the everyday operations of the Sheriff’s Office and the many services provided to the community. Community members are welcome to apply for this 11-week course which offers presentations, tours, and hands-on activities designed to give you an intimate look at the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. Members that complete our Citizen Academy are also welcomed to apply for our Community Advisory Group. Classes will be held in Newport from 6pm - 8pm on Tuesdays from September 9, 2025 through November 18, 2025. 

To apply for the 2025 Citizen Academy you must:

• Submit an application no later than Monday, August 18, 2025
• Successfully pass a Sheriff’s Office background check
• Be at least 16 years or older

Citizen Academy features interactive sessions with team members that cover:

• Animal Shelter and Services 
• Civil Service 
• Corrections, Jail, Kitchen, and Medical Tour
• Emergency Management
• K-9 Team
• Major Crime Team and Investigations
• Patrol, Special Districts, Marine Program, School Resource Deputy, and Community Services
• Pretrial Services
• Search and Rescue
• And More

Space is limited and interested community members are encouraged to apply early. Applications will not be accepted for the 2025 Citizen Academy after August 18, 2025.

###

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports yesterday, June 12, 2025, at 7:32 p.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a crash at the intersection of Lacomb Drive and Bond Road.  An additional caller stated power lines were on top of the vehicles.

Deputies’ investigation showed Marion Johnson, 69, from Albany was driving a black Chevrolet Tahoe northbound on Bond Road when he approached the stop sign.  Johnson had his wife, Valda Johnson, 67, as a passenger.  When Johnson proceeded through the stop sign his vehicle was struck by a grey 2014 Dodge Ram pickup driven eastbound by Cole Russell Allen, 32, from Lebanon. Cole Russell Allen was the only occupant in the Dodge Ram pickup.  When deputies and fire personnel from the Lebanon Fire Department arrived, they had power disconnected and extricated the Johnson's from the vehicle.

Marion Johnson suffered life-threatening injuries and died at the scene.  Valda Johnson sustained non-life-threatening, but serious injuries and was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis by ambulance.

Deputies interviewed witnesses who reported Allen was driving at a high rate of speed moments before the crash.  Deputies also found through their investigation Allen was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Allen suffered minor injuries and was taken to jail where he was charged with Manslaughter II, Assault III, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) and Reckless Driving.

The crash caused both power and internet outages in the area.

Linn County Deputies were assisted by the Lebanon Fire Department, the Linn County Road Department and Pacific Power.

Anyone with information on the crash or Allen’s driving of the Dodge Ram pickup yesterday, please contact Detective Scott Tennant at (541) 967-3950.

Deputies with the Marion County Search and Rescue team are assisting the Salem Police department in locating 36 year old Donna Marie. Donna was last seen today at approximately 5:30 p.m. from the Lancaster Drive Walmart store. Donna Marie is developmentally disabled and autistic and unable to care for herself. Donna is described as 5' 10" tall with sandy blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a blue hooded sweat shirt,dark shorts,black and white sneakers,and was carrying a gray back pack. If you see Donna Marie, please call 911. 

On June 8, 2025, just before 10:00 p.m., 911 callers reported that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle near the 6000 block of Silverton Road NE in Salem.

Deputies and emergency medical personnel responded to the scene. Tragically, the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Silverton Road was closed for approximately three and a half hours while members of the Marion County CRASH Team investigated the incident.

The driver of the involved vehicle, a 58-year-old female, remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. At this time, no citations or arrests have been made.

The pedestrian has been identified as Michael Martinez (52), of Salem. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all those affected by this tragic event.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, Marion County Fire District, Marion County Public Works, and the Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office.

UPDATE 4; 6/12/25  3:55 PM

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) today announced the conclusion of a criminal investigation related to the officer involved shooting by two Milwaukie Police Officers of Hunter Newton in September of 2024. Oregon DOJ was asked by Clackamas County District Attorney John Wentworth to assume all prosecutorial responsibilities arising from the investigation, which was conducted by the Clackamas County Major Crimes Team (MCT). The Milwaukie Police Department learned the grand jury returned a “not true bill,” meaning the grand jury believed criminal charges against the two law enforcement officers were not warranted.

We recognize and respect the decision of the grand jury and defer to the Oregon DOJ’s process regarding contact with the Newton family and subsequent release of body worn camera (BWC) footage.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Hunter Newton and his family, and we recognize the deep and lasting impact this event has had. This incident also has been troubling and difficult for our officers, support staff, city employees and this community. We do not take lightly the impact a significant use of force has on so many.”  -Ryan Burdick, Chief of Police.

This week’s grand jury response means the criminal aspect of this incident has concluded.  As part of the use of force and policy review process, the Milwaukie Police Department will request the grand jury transcript and independent investigator’s reports from the Oregon DOJ to begin an internal administrative review of the incident.Sergeant Sanchez and Officer Akom will remain on administrative leave pending the completion of that internal review.

Link to Oregon DOJ statement and BWC footage: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/clackamas-county-grand-jury-finds-insufficient-evidence-for-criminal-charges-in-milwaukie-shooting-involving-police/

Clackamas County major crimes team investigating Officer Involved shooting (Updated) | City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

UPDATE 3;  10/2/24 4:45 PM
 

On behalf of the Milwaukie Police Department, I want to express our sincere thoughts and prayers to the family of Hunter Newton, who is currently in the vital care of medical staff and surrounded by family and friends.

This fact-finding process is ongoing. The Milwaukie Police Department is fully committed to cooperating with outside agency investigators and the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. 

As part the Milwaukie Department’s commitment to transparency, we embraced the implementation of Officer’s body-worn cameras several years ago. We believe the moments these cameras preserve are a source of documentation, accountability, and can help bring clarity to critical situations. Milwaukie Officers were wearing body-worn cameras during this incident, and they were activated at the time of the encounter. The Milwaukie Police Department has released all body-worn camera footage to investigators and Clackamas County District Attorney Office for their use and review in this matter.  

As this is an ongoing investigation and to respect the integrity of that process, we will not be sharing further information at this time. The investigation remains active and is being conducted by the Interagency Major Crimes Team and the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. Body worn camera recordings of this incident will be shared with the community at the earliest permissible time.
 

Ryan Burdick, Chief of Police

Milwaukie Police Department

UPDATE 9/30/24 5:30 AM

During this incident at least one Officer discharged their firearm and a male suspect was struck. The person was taken to a local hospital and their condition is unknown at this time, no Officers were injured and there is no continuing danger to the community. This is an ongoing investigation, further questions about the investigation should be directed to the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office.

https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/police/clackamas-county-major-crimes-team-investigating-officer-involved-shooting

Milwaukie OR- On 9/30/24 at approximately 12:55 AM, Milwaukie Officers were involved in a traffic investigation at the 11000 block of SE Oak St. During this investigation at least one Officer discharged their firearm. Clackamas County major crimes team and the Clackamas County district attorney's office are processing the scene. Additional Information will be shared as it becomes available.

https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/police/clackamas-county-major-crimes-team-investigating-officer-involved-shooting

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputy involved in the shooting of a suspect on Friday, June 6, 2025, is Deputy Matt Hansen. Deputy Hansen is a 32-year veteran police officer who joined MCSO in February 2025. Deputy Hansen remains on critical incident leave, which is standard protocol. Portland Police Bureau (PPB) is leading the investigation of the incident.

PPB Press Release Originally Published June 6, 2025:

UPDATE: Suspect Fired Shots and Pointed Gun at Police

Press Release

June 6, 2025 6:02 pm

The incident began on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 3:43 p.m., when Portland Police Officers assigned to North Precinct responded to a disturbance call in the 4600 block of Northeast 116^th Avenue where 2 men were reportedly fighting. Officers arrived and found a possible suspect identified in the call, who was briefly detained for the investigation. No crime victim was found, and the suspect was released to go to his home, which was nearby. According to dispatch logs, the officers cleared the scene at 4:53 p.m.

At 5:06 p.m., Officers responded to another call in the same block, that the man was back out in the street holding a gun and fired a shot. An on-duty Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was in the area, heard the call come out, and stopped to assist. As officers were coming into the area, the sounds of additional gunshots were reported. The Deputy worked with PPB Officers to challenge the suspect with the gun in the middle of Northeast 116^th Avenue just south of Northeast Sandy Boulevard, and the suspect pointed the handgun at the uniformed law enforcement officers. The MCSO deputy fired a round from his patrol rifle. The suspect dropped the gun. Officers summoned emergency medical services (EMS), then the officers moved in and provided trauma first aid until EMS arrived. The man was transported to the hospital by ambulance for treatment. He was seriously injured but his prognosis is unknown. His identity is not being released at this time.

Officers secured the crime scene. A semiautomatic handgun was seized as evidence. 

The Portland Police Homicide Unit responded to the scene to lead the investigation. Because the incident involved a MCSO Deputy, the East County Major Crimes Team (ECMCT) also responded to the scene to assist. The ECMCT is made up of detectives with MCSO, the Gresham Police Department, the Port of Portland Police Department, and Oregon State Police. Chief Bob Day and Sheriff Nicole Morrisey-O’Donnell responded to the scene as well.

Preliminary investigation revealed that another area resident fired shots during this incident. That resident, an adult male, remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. No arrests have been made.

No officers, deputies, or community members were hurt. Detectives have documented some property damage from the exchange of gunfire between the suspect and the neighbor.

Witnesses, both community members and law enforcement officers, are being interviewed by Detectives. If anyone has information about this incident and has not already talked to police, please contact Detective Brian Sims at rian.sims@police.portlandoregon.gov">brian.sims@police.portlandorego… 503-823-2079 or Detective Meghan Burkeen at urkeen@police.portlandoregon.gov">meghan.burkeen@police.portlando… 503-823-2092.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

One Man Injured Following Deputy Involved Shooting in the Parkrose Neighborhood

A man has been transported to the hospital after being injured in a Multnomah County Deputy-involved shooting in the Parkrose Neighborhood. All officers and deputies are uninjured. The incident took place in the 4600 block of Northeast 116th Avenue. During the investigation, Northeast Sandy Boulevard is closed between Northeast 112th Avenue and Northeast 118th Avenue. Northeast 116th Avenue is closed between Northeast Sandy Boulevard and Northeast Prescott Street.

The PIO is enroute to the scene. Additional information about this incident will be provided here.

###PPB###

OREGON CITY, Ore. – On January 30th, 2025, at about 03:46 AM, the Oregon City Police Department (OCPD) and The Clackamas Fire Department were dispatched to reports of a fire at the former Blue Heron Paper Company site, currently owned by The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, located at 419 Main St. in Oregon City.

Multiple callers reported seeing flames coming from an abandoned building at the site. Clackamas Fire responded and took command of the scene. Police officers from the Gladstone Police Department, Canby Police Department, and deputies with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist OCPD with traffic control, scene management, and searching the area for possible suspects.

Clackamas County Fire Investigators were able to determine the location where the fire was started and turned over the criminal investigation to Oregon City Police Detectives. Police detectives were able to identify several people who were living at the site and located them for interviews. Through the course of their investigation, a suspect was identified and interviewed.

Today, June 12th, OCPD Detectives arrested 21-year-old Christian Gannon Dukes of Oregon City for Arson in the Second Degree based on probable cause. Mr. Dukes is alleged to have started the fire intentionally. He was lodged at the Clackamas County Jail and the case has been sent to the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

If you have any additional information, please call the Oregon City Police Tip Line at 503-905-3505 or Clackamas County Dispatch Non-Emergency at 503-823-3333. Please reference OCPD case number 25-002122.

Deschutes County, Ore. 10 May 2025- On Monday, May 9, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 126, near milepost 2, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Kia Sol, operated by Carrie Jane Wilson (45) of Prineville, crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound Ford F250, operated by Richard Alex Byron Szymanski (67) of Redmond, head-on.

The operator of the Kia (Wilson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Szymanski), who was not wearing a seatbelt, suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Redmond Police Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. 9 June 2025 – On Sunday, June 8, 2025, at about 6:09 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 101 in Lincoln County near Seal Rock.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Toyota Matrix, operated by Leslie Ryan Campbell (45) of Seal Rock, was traveling southbound on Highway 101 when it left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck guide wires on the south side of the embankment, and ultimately struck a tree.

The operator and only occupant of the Toyota (Campbell) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

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

# # #

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

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. 9 June 2025 – On Saturday, June 7, 2025, at about 3:31 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 101 in Lincoln County near Lincoln City.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Chevrolet Spark, operated by Paula Babcock (69) of Donald, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 101 near milepost 119 when it left the lane of travel and sideswiped a southbound white Tesla S, operated by Robert Gates (57) of Salem. The Chevrolet then collided with a southbound blue GMC Yukon, operated by Mary McCarthy (62) of Lincoln City. After it was struck, the Tesla entered the northbound lane and collided with a black Kia Sorento, operated by Diane Rodriguez (65) of Lincoln City.

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

The operator of the Kia (Rodriguez) and a passenger, James Rodriguez (76) of Lincoln City, were transported to an area hospital with reported minor injuries.

The operator of the GMC (McCarthy) had reported minor injuries.

The operator of the Tesla (Gates) and a passenger, Alena Gates (41) of Salem, had reported minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Depoe Bay Fire Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue, PacWest Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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

Portland Fire Investigation Unit arrests arson suspect in early AM fire

A subject responsible for starting the fire at the Sacred Heart Church contacted 911 to turn themselves in for starting the early AM fire at the Sacred Heart Church located at SE 3926 SE 11th Avenue in the Brooklyn Neighborhood.  The suspect was contacted by the Fire Investigators along with Portland Police Officers. The suspect was determined to be experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the fire. The suspect was interviewed by Arson Detectives and transported to the MCDC where he was booked under one count of Arson II. The Fire/Arson Investigations Unit and Portland Police will work collaboratively wiht the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office to determine the best resolution for this case.

Suspect Information - Domanique L. Wahl-Stephens - 45 YO Male

Estimated damages to church - $3000 of burn damage to original doors circa 1890

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to thank the dispatchers at BOEC and PPB Officers in their assistance in this incident.

###

PF&R Investigation Unit looking for person of interest.

The PFR-PPB Fire Investigations Unit (FIU) is looking to contact a person of interest who may have information regarding the 3-alarm fire from Sunday evening near N. Vancouver and Alberta in the Humboldt Neighborhood of NE Portland.

Witnesses passing by the area of the fire yesterday reported seeing a white adult male wearing a light-colored shirt, shorts and baseball cap, driving a 2-door, black convertible, coupe, parked directly across from the fire location for a period of about 30 minutes.  The adult male was standing around and may have met up with a female shortly before leaving the area.  

The FIU has no reason to believe they are involved, but they are an essential witness that investigators would like to interview immediately.  Please contact (503) 823-INFO if you have any information on or a way to contact the individual described above.

###

Portland Fire crews had a busy afternoon in NE Portland. A residential box assignment was dispatched at 5:57pm to NE 22 & Prescott, this is believed to have been an exterior fire that worked its way up the siding of a home and may have worked its way inside.  Crews were able to make a quick extinguishment of the fire and it was recalled.

A few minutes after recalling this fire, another residential fire was called in by a passerby at 6:09pm near the intersection of N Vancouver Ave & N Alberta St.  The first arriving engine company relayed to all incoming crews that there was fire showing from the rear of a home.  That fire was extending to the neighborhing structure causing a 2nd alarm to be called to ensure there would be enough firefighters on scene to extinguish what could potentially have been two structure fires.  Eventually a 3rd alarm would be called, this was done for both the amount of work being performed on scene as well as temperatures needing for crews to switch out more often to prevent heat exhaustion. Crews worked quickly and diligently to prevent the fire from spreading too far into either structure by getting hose lines into play quickly. The primary building is a vacant home, and the exposure building is a Wellness Center.

There were no injuries or anyone displaced from this fire, and the cause is under investigation. 

PF&R responds to suspicious residential fire in early AM hours.

At 5:50 AM Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a possible residential fire in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood near the intersection of SE 118^th and Holgate. Information from BOEC indicated fire and smoke from a recently vacated apartment in a multi-occupancy structure.

Crews arrived to have active fire visible on both the first and second level of an apartment with smoke on the eave line and appearing to be pushing out of the garage as well. Crews quickly went to work performing the required fire suppression activities of extending handheld hose lines, establishing a water supply, searching, and ventilating the structure. The flames were suppressed quickly, and the search resulted in confirming all occupants out of the structure. There were no reported injuries on this incident and neighboring units unaffected so there will not be any displacement of the other occupants of the structure.

There were reports of a suspicious individual on the property who was quicky apprehended and detained by PPB and was in custody upon the arrival of the Fire Investigative Team comprised of 3 investigators and the PFB Arson K9. Fire Investigators are wrapping up their scene investigation.  The subject who was detained by police during the initial fire suppression activities has seen been released from detention. 

After conducting their scene examination, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and the deploying our Arson K9, fire investigators believe this fire was intentionally set.  

Investigators are asking for the public’s help in identifying any suspicious behavior prior to the fire.  If anyone was traveling along SE Holgate between 0530 and 0550am this morning and saw anything or anyone suspicious, please contact 503-823-FIRE or email Lt Jason Andersen at sen@police.portlandoregon.gov">jason.andersen@police.portlandoregon.gov.

Portland Fire would like to thank BOEC and PPB for their assistance in this AM incident and ongoing investigation.

###

UPDATE:  Juvenile has been located and is safe.

The Tualatin Police Department is seeking the assistance of the public in locating 14 year old Taylor Leyba.  Taylor was last seen riding a pink Nishiki brand mountain bike on June 11 at about 6:30 PM in the area of Byrom Elementary School located at 21800 SW 91^st Avenue in Tualatin.  Taylor is described as a white female standing at approximately 5 fee 3 inches tall, weighing approximately 100 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.  She was last seen wearing a black short sleeved T-shirt, black jeans and a pink watch.

If anyone has information regarding the whereabouts of Taylor, please contact the Tualatin Police Department at 503-629-0111.

(photos of subject and bicycle attached)

Effective at 7 a.m. on June 11, the high-fire danger burn ban has been lifted across Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue’s service area. The ban, originally implemented due to elevated risk, has been lifted following the higher-than-average weekend temperatures.

Residents of the district may now resume backyard burning, and businesses can conduct commercial agricultural burning, following the regulations set by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Oregon Department of Forestry, and the Oregon Department of Agriculture. June 15 marks the end of spring burning season. To ensure compliance, please review outdoor burning rules on TVF&R’s website or contact the daily open burning announcement at 503-259-1789.

Outdoor Burning Complaints:

TVF&R reminds residents that while the burn ban has been lifted, safety remains a priority. TVF&R does not enforce air-quality complaints related to smoke. Fire personnel will respond to burning complaints if:

• The fire is hostile or poses a risk of becoming hostile.
• Smoke is obscuring public roadways.
• Smoke leads to a medical emergency that requires patient transport.

For air-quality concerns related to smoke, residents should report to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

###

The Vancouver Police are seeking the location of a missing juvenile. 11-year-old Aliegha Iven was last seen on 06/06/2025 at her residence near the 14000 Blk of NE 50th St. in Vancouver, Washington. Aliegha reportedly stands 4'2" tall, weighs approximately 80lbs, and has black hair and brown eyes. She was last reported wearing a blue crop top, jean shorts, and pink Crocs. If you have information regarding Aliegha please dial 311 or 911.CHILD LOCATED

On Monday, June 9, 2025, at around 10:40 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of an assault at a home near SW Bridle Hills Drive and SW 161st Drive in Beaverton. During the investigation, deputies learned that an unidentified man entered the victim’s home and assaulted her, both physically and sexually. The woman did not recognize the assailant, as he took steps to conceal his identity and fled the home prior to deputies being called.

Deputies conducted an extensive search for the suspect, which included using K9s and drones, but did not find anyone. Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit were called out to investigate and learned that the victim had been receiving threats from Luis Alberto Garcia, age 31, of Cornelius. Garcia did not match the physical description of the suspect in this case, and detectives confirmed his whereabouts during the attack.

Although Garcia was not the person who carried out the assault, investigators believe that Garcia is connected to the incident. On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, investigators served a search warrant at a home in Cornelius and arrested Garcia on unrelated charges. The investigation is ongoing, and Garcia may face additional charges related to this incident.

At this time, investigators believe this was a targeted attack, and a description of the suspect is not being released to the public.

Detectives are asking area residents to check their surveillance cameras for activity on 6/9/25 from 10:00 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. and contact the Sheriff’s Office so investigators can collect the footage. Investigators would also like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious during that time frame.

Additionally, detectives are seeking information on Garcia and his connection to this event. Anyone with information about Garcia is asked to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111, referencing case number 50-25-8016.

The release of Garcia’s booking photo is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity.

Vernon “Bud” Robertson has been located in Washington by the Washington State Patrol. Bud is safe and will be reunited with family members soon.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Washington State Patrol and the community for their assistance in locating Bud. 

Original Release: Deputies Ask for Assistance in Locating a Missing Person 

On Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 8:36 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a missing person near the 20000 block of SW Turin Court in Beaverton.

The caller reported that 75-year-old Vernon “Bud” Robertson left his home around 10:15 a.m. on June 12th in a gray 2020 Honda CR-V with license plate 779 MGL. Bud’s clothing description is unknown, but he commonly wears a blue button-up shirt, blue jeans, a baseball cap, and brown leather shoes. Bud is 5'9” tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs. He has brown eyes and gray hair.

Bud does not carry a cell phone and may appear lost or disoriented due to a cognitive impairment.

Deputies are asking anyone with information on Bud’s whereabouts to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. 

Zainab Alothman has been located in Multnomah County and is safe.

The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for all the community support. 

Investigators learned that Zainab boarded public transit in Beaverton and has been seen on surveillance cameras in multiple areas across the Portland Metro Area. If encountered in public, she may appear disoriented or lost.

Community members are encouraged to immediately contact law enforcement with information regarding Zainab's whereabouts through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. 

Investigators assisting with locating Zainab are releasing updated information. A community member most recently saw Zainab on SW 135th Avenue in Tigard, near SW Scholls Ferry Road, at about 07:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10th.

The included picture is the most recent photo of Zainab, showing the clothing she was wearing when she went missing.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking the community to review home security video if you live near SW 135th Avenue and SW Scholls Ferry Road, looking for Zainab between 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10th, and Wednesday, June 11th.

If you have information regarding the whereabouts of Zainab Alothman, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 503-629-0111. 

Original Media Release: June 10th, 2025

Deputies Ask for Assistance in Locating a Missing Person 

On Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:42 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a missing person near SW 150th Avenue and SW Sophia Lane in Tigard.

The caller reported that 47-year-old Zainab Alothman had not returned from her daily walk. Zainab left her home around 11:00 a.m. wearing a green shirt, a black jacket, gray pants, and black shoes. She is 5'6” tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs with brown eyes and brown hair.

Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate Zainab. She does not carry a cell phone, is not known to ride public transportation, and may appear lost or disoriented.

Deputies are asking anyone with information on Zainab's whereabouts to contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. If you live in the area, please review any security camera footage for Zainab. 

On Friday, June 6, 2025, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a focused mission to address livability concerns in Aloha. Deputies concentrated their efforts at locations known to have frequent illegal drug activity and at homes suspected of selling drugs.

Deputies contacted multiple individuals during the mission, resulting in arrests and leading to the application of a search warrant for one of the locations. Deputies served the search warrant in the 3000 block of SW 185th Avenue, resulting in the seizure of additional illegal drugs and the identification of a child with potential drug exposure. The child was taken to an area hospital for evaluation.

The following individuals were arrested during the mission:

• Nicholas Wright, 46, of Beaverton
• Miguel Arizmednez, 54, of Beaverton
• Aaron Kinsey, 34, of Portland
• Zachary Morris, 32, of Portland
• Abdikadir Hussein, 27, of Portland
• Joey Agpalza, 46, of Beaverton
• Pierre Elliott Jr., 33, of Beaverton
• Brandie Holman, 44, of Beaverton

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments for their assistance in the investigation.

Community members are encouraged to report suspicious behavior to the Sheriff’s Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111. 

On June 10, 2025, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into a reported sexual assault that occurred in the Nestucca River Recreation Forest, rural Yamhill County. During the investigation, investigators learned that the victim accepted a ride from Cory Ryan Williams after he approached her while she was walking along a rural road near Willamina. An adult female known to Williams was also in the vehicle. Neither Williams nor the other female were known by victim.

The victim was taken to a wooded area in the Nestucca River Recreation Forest where Williams physically and sexually assaulted the victim while away from the other female.

On June 11, 2025, investigators learned that Williams was hiding in a specific area of the Nestucca River Recreation Forest and attempting to leave the area discreetly. Yamhill County detectives requested assistance from the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office. With their help, Williams was located and taken into custody.

As part of the ongoing investigation, the Yamhill County Special Investigations Unit and the Yamhill County Street Crimes and Narcotics Team (SCAN) executed several search warrants. Williams was booked into the Yamhill County Correctional Facility on charges of Rape in the First Degree (ORS 163.375) and Menacing (ORS 163.190).

Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims given the circumstances and what was learned during interviews. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit at (503) 474-6326.

Under Oregon House Bill 3273 Williams’ booking photo is being released to identify additional criminal activity he may have been involved in.

PORTLAND, Ore., June 12, 2025 – Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel is pleased to invite families and children of all ages to the third annual Touch-A-Truck event, which will be held from 9 am to noon on June 21, at Clackamas Community College, located at S.E. Harmony Road in Portland.

This is a hands-on-event where children of all ages will be able to explore trucks and vehicles of all sizes, from fire engines, ambulances, school buses, and more. Meet firefighters, talk to a first responder, and hear from numerus community organizations that will be on hand to provide education and hands-on safety demonstrations for families.

Members of the Randall Children’s Hospital Child Injury Prevention team will be there to help families learn more about water safety, car seats, and boosters at a child passenger safety station. They will also get home safety tips to keep children safe and avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital. Health educators and certified child passenger safety technicians will be available to answer questions and provide parents and caregivers with hands-on demonstrations.

Children can visit the safety stations and enjoy a variety of vehicles on display. Each family will leave with supplies and education to ensure children stay safe.

Details:

Activity: Randall Children’s Hospital Free Touch-A-Truck Event

Date/Time: June 21, 2025, 9 am - noon.

Location: Clackamas Community College – Harmony Campus

Address: 7300 S.E. Harmony Road, Portland, OR 97222

Https://www.clackamas.edu/

Fee: FREE

Phone: (503) 413-4005

About Legacy Health

Legacy Health is a locally owned, nonprofit health system driven by our mission to improve the health of those around us. We offer a unique blend of health services—from wellness and urgent care to dedicated children's care and advanced medical centers. We care for patients of all ages when and where they need us across the Portland/Vancouver metro area and mid-Willamette Valley. With an eye toward a healthier community, our partnerships tackle vital issues such as housing and mental health. Legacy strives to help everyone live healthier and better lives, with the vision of being essential to the health of the region. For more information, visit www.legacyhealth.org.

Founder, President & CEO of Romano Capital will assume board role in July

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Foundation has named Kess Romano to its board of directors. His term begins July 1, 2025, and he will assume roles on the Planned Giving and Investment committees.

Romano has deep local roots and was raised on the east side of Clark County, later attending George Fox University, where he played baseball and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics. In 2003, Kess founded Romano Financial with his father and in 2008 established Romano Capital to focus on real estate development and investments in and around Clark County. Romano Capital prioritizes local engagement and expertise, directing their investments towards their own community.

“We are pleased that Kess has agreed to join the PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Foundation Board,” says Karen Santangelo, Chief Philanthropy Officer for the Foundation. “His deep roots, relationships and long-lasting commitment to the growth and vibrancy of Clark County directly align with the role our Foundation plays in the community. Like Kess and his company, we believe in investing in Clark County and providing services, hope and healing to our neighbors.”

In addition to Kess Romano having seven younger brothers and an older sister, he has four children and two with his partner, Leslie. His primary hobbies include golf and traveling.

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org

NEWBERG, OR – June 19, 2025 – Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newly renovated and expanded Newberg Wellness Center. This year, as we proudly celebrate our 50th anniversary, we are excited to mark a new achievement by opening this state-of-the-art facility. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Thursday, June 19, at 9:00 AM PDT at 2251 E Hancock St, Newberg, OR 97132 to celebrate this significant milestone in expanding access to comprehensive health and wellness services for the Newberg community. Programming for the event starts at 9:00 AM PDT, with the actual ribbon cutting expected at 9:45 AM PDT. The event is scheduled to conclude at 11:00 AM PDT. Local elected officials, donors, and special guests are invited, along with media outlets to capture this exciting moment.

The extensive renovation and expansion project has transformed the existing clinic into a state-of-the-art, sustainable wellness hub, now featuring:

• Increased Exam Rooms: Allowing Virginia Garcia to serve more patients and reduce wait times.
• Dedicated Wellness Area: Including space for exercise programs and a teaching kitchen to promote healthy lifestyles.
• Upgraded Dental Clinic and Operatories: Enhancing the quality and capacity of dental care services with the support of A-dec and Austin Family Foundation.
• Team-Based Healthcare Integration: Expanded workspace to co-locate medical providers with clinical pharmacists, mental health professionals, and community navigators, fostering seamless and holistic patient care.
• Teaching Lab Space: Providing a dedicated environment for training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
• Rooftop Solar Panel System: With a focus on sustainability, the rooftop holds 150 solar panels, generating 90,000 kWh a year of clean energy—offsetting 65 tons of carbon dioxide annually -- the equivalent of planting 3,000 trees. The solar panel system was made possible by support from PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund, a grant fully funded by PGE Green Future customers.

"This expansion represents a profound investment in the health of our Newberg neighbors," said Gil Munoz, CEO of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center. "We are deeply grateful to our community partners and donors for their unwavering support. This new Wellness Center will allow us to provide even more comprehensive, integrated care and empower our patients to achieve their health and wellness goals."

Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to patient access, Virginia Garcia made the bold decision to maintain clinic operations throughout the entire renovation process. "Suspending patient care was simply not an option," stated Amber Bruner, Director, Communication & Strategy. "Ensuring continuous, high-quality care for our Newberg community remained our top priority, even amidst the challenges of construction."

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will welcome esteemed political officials, major donors, and valued community partners to tour the new facility and celebrate this momentous occasion.

About Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center:

The Mission of the Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center is to provide high quality, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate primary health care to the communities of Washington and Yamhill counties with a special emphasis on migrant and seasonal farmworkers and others with barriers to receiving ​health care.​ Founded in 1975, Virginia Garcia offers a comprehensive range of medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and community health services.

Acknowledgement: This Newberg Wellness Center Project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $2 million with 92 percentage financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Bend Fire & Rescue was called to a brush fire near the Stillwater Crossing apartments on Bend’s southside around 4pm Thursday. Multiple callers indicated the fire was spreading in brush and trees near buildings and homes. Fire crews arrived and were able to quickly stop the fire and keep it to 1/10^th of an acre. Bend Police assisted with traffic control and the investigation during the incident. The fire burned mostly in the pine needle duff below the trees and was just getting into the brush and trees when fire crews arrived. No homes or structures were directly threatened by the fire, the closest being more than 100 feet from the fire.

The fire was determined to on private land just to the north of the apartments off of Romaine Village Dr. Though the fire is considered human caused, a direct cause was not able to be determined. There are no indications incidental or natural causes such as lightning, powerlines, etc. in the area. There were no encampments or similar noted in this area.

We are into High fire danger currently and summer is just starting to heat up. Take some time to review you house again for defensible space and ensure you’re prepared for wildfire. More information can be found at www.bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard is scheduled to host a tour of new medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) technology at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Salem at 1:00 p.m. on June 11. 

The tour will showcase two upcoming pieces of MEDEVAC technology: the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) MEDEVAC patient handling system and the Vita Rescue System (VRS) litter. 

A 20-foot transportable mockup of the FLRAA MEDEVAC patient handling system, known as the Future MEDEVAC Cabin Technical Demonstrator, is touring across the country to multiple military installations, gathering feedback from critical care flight paramedics on the system’s design. 

“Due to the Oregon National Guard’s high proficiency and familiarity with MEDEVAC missions, it is the only reserve unit participating in this unique opportunity,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Edgecombe, Oregon Army National Guard State Aviation Officer. “Flight medics from Oregon’s Golf Company, 189 Aviation are currently testing the cabin’s capabilities and their input will directly impact the final production design.” 

The VRS improves search and rescue operations by preventing spinning during hoist operations through the use of gyros and fans. This new technology reduces overall hover time and pilot fatigue during rescues. The Oregon National Guard is one the first units in the country authorized to use this device. 

Live demonstrations of the Future MEDEVAC Cabin Technical Demonstrator and the VRS litter will be conducted during the tour. There will also be a HH-60M Black Hawk display with Soldiers present to discuss Oregon National Guard’s disaster response capabilities.

Media entities are encouraged to RSVP with Lt. Col. Stephen S. Bomar, Director - Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department at 971-355-3527 for access.

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Hines, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management will host a walk-up adoption event June 25–27 at the Oregon Wild Horse Corral Facility, offering the unique opportunity to give a wild horse a new home.

This event features 10 yearlings from the South Steens Herd Management Area and 15 geldings, all five years old or younger, from the Murderer’s Creek Wild Horse Territory. It marks the first in-person chance to adopt these horses since they were gathered in the summer and fall of 2024.

Adopter registration and animal viewing will take place Wednesday, June 25, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adoption begins at 9 a.m. Thursday and Friday, June 26 and 27, and will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis for registered, approved adopters. To streamline the process, potential adopters are encouraged to apply in advance at wildhorsesonline.blm.gov/HowToGuide or by emailing their application to cpresley@blm.gov before June 25.

“We encourage anyone who loves horses to come out and consider adoption,” said Kayce Faulkner, Facility Manager. “These mustangs are looking for safe, caring homes. They’re tough, smart, full of heart. And they make great partners whether you’re working, riding, or just spending time with them.”

South Steens horses are often recognized for their distinctive coloring and above-average conformation, while Murderer’s Creek horses tend to be bay, black, or brown with a smaller saddle-horse build. The adoption fee is $125. The Oregon Wild Horse Corral Facility is located at 26755 US-20 in Hines.

The Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Program protects and manages wild horses and burros on public lands across the western United States. Through gathers, adoption, and partnerships, the program works to maintain healthy herds and healthy rangelands, ensuring these iconic animals continue to thrive for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.blm.gov/or/resources/whb/index.php.

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, the most of any Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In Fiscal Year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.

Spokane, Wash. —Bureau of Land Management officials have restricted certain activities on public lands to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in these Washington counties: Adams, Asotin, Benton, Chelan, Columbia, Douglas, Ferry, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Stevens, Walla Walla, Whitman, and Yakima counties. With summer approaching and temperatures rising, dry and flashy fuels become increasingly susceptible to ignition. Fire restrictions help keep the public and first responders safe.

“Know Before You Go and be prepared before visiting your public lands this summer,” said Lonnie Newton, Fire Management Officer for the BLM Spokane District. “Pack a shovel and fire extinguisher and follow BLM’s fire restriction orders to help prevent fires.”

Visitors can stay up-to-date on fire restrictions by visiting https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/oregon-washington/fire-restrictions. Click or tap if you trust this link.">BLM Oregon/Washington’s fire restriction webpage. With 85% of wild fires being human caused, everyone has a role to play in protecting their communities and reducing the number of fires.

The public use restrictions go into effect June 13 and include a few small steps to prevent fires:

1. Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and other designated locations.
2. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire, including charcoal briquette fire. Exception: Campfires (including charcoal briquette fire) within provided steel rings at certain improved campgrounds will be deemed legal. Contact local BLM Offices for guidance.
3. Operating any type of motorized vehicle off developed roadways. Parking vehicles off roadways must be done in an area barren of flammable materials.
4. Fireworks are prohibited on BLM public lands, along with exploding targets, metal targets, and firing tracer or incendiary devices.

For more information, please contact the BLM Spokane District at 509-536-1200 or LM_OR_SP_Mailbox@blm.gov">BLM_OR_SP_Mailbox@blm.gov.

-BLM-

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 12, 2025

Oregon’s Preschool Promise Program Celebrates Five Years of Statewide Impact, Serving More Than 5,200 Children This Year

Launched in 2016 as a small, regional pilot, the program expanded in 2020 statewide and now serves more than 5,200 children across all 36 counties

SALEM, OR — The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) marked a major milestone in its commitment to Oregon’s youngest learners: five years of statewide implementation of Preschool Promise, on of Oregon’s free, state-funded preschool program. DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee welcomed families, providers, and partners to celebrate the program’s growth and impact across Oregon’s communities at a Preschool Promise event hosted at North Salem High School’s Early Learning Center.

“We are proud to celebrate five years of keeping our bold promise to Oregon’s children and families,” said Chatterjee. “Preschool Promise has grown from a small pilot into a transformative statewide program rooted in equity, family choice, and community partnership.”

Preschool Promise serves Oregon’s three- and four-year-olds from families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Since launching statewide in 2020, the program has expanded to serve more than 5,200 children annually at nearly 330 locations across all 36 Oregon counties. Of the slots awarded by the Oregon Legislature, 96% of slots were filled in the 2024-2025 school year, a figure that has grown steadily since the program expanded statewide. 

Built on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive—regardless of income or zip code—Preschool Promise offers families a choice of home-based, center-based, school-based, and culturally specific early learning settings that reflect their values, language, and culture.

Preschool Promise is also strengthening Oregon’s early learning workforce by supporting competitive pay with kindergarten teachers and promoting the professionalization of the workforce. Many providers are women, people of color and emerging small businesses. A recent shift to awarding grants directly from the state helps providers thrive and build quality, sustainable programs. 

Families remain at the heart of Preschool Promise, which prioritizes family choice, inclusive practices, nutritious meals, high-quality curriculum, and dual-language instruction that honors families’ home languages.

“Each day, we get to spend quality time with children–most of whom may not have had access to preschool prior to Preschool Promise,” said Stephanie Whetzel, Director of Early Learning Programs, Salem-Keizer Public Schools. “We see the benefits and hear that our students we teach are more prepared for kindergarten.”

Preschool Promise’s success is powered by strong partnerships with 16 regional Early Learning Hubs across and 220 grantees statewide. The agency now uses local data to assign slots where they are most needed. As part of the agency’s commitment to transparency, the agency launched a public dashboard last year, and continues to make ongoing investments in provider tools and systems to improve efficiency and quality.

State leaders shared that Preschool Promise has evolved into a cornerstone of Oregon’s vision for a more just and equitable education system. The agency, which became a standalone agency in 2023, remains committed to improving access, supporting providers, and ensuring that every child in Oregon has the opportunity to succeed. Learn more at oregon.gov/delc.

For Media Purposes Only: Access photos from the graduation ceremony here.

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About Preschool Promise
Preschool Promise is Oregon’s free, state-funded preschool program serving three- and four-year-old children from families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Through a mixed delivery model, Preschool Promise offers families a choice of high-quality early learning settings statewide. Learn more at oregon.gov/delc. 

MEDIA ADVISORY
June 12, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator

Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
sam.tenney@dpsst.oregon.gov
503-931-4069

Oregon Fire Fighters Memorial Ceremony to honor fallen fire service members

The annual Oregon Fire Fighters Memorial Ceremony, which honors the state’s fire service members who have died in the line of duty, will take place at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem. 

During an engraving ceremony held June 11, an honor guard stood watch as the names of three fallen firefighters were added to the memorial: Division Chief Nicholas A. Berg of the Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District, Firefighter Benjamin Charles Sapper of the United States Forest Service, and Retired Captain Larry Damon Dean of the Salem Fire Department.

Division Chief Berg, Firefighter Sapper, and Captain Dean will be honored along with 179 previously fallen fire service members during the ceremony at the academy, located at 4190 Aumsville Highway SE.

The ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) hosts annually in partnership with the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard. For more information on the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial, please visit DPSST’s Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial website at https://www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Memorials/Firefighters/Pages/default.aspx.

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About DPSST
 

The mission of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is to pursue excellence in training and accountability for public safety professionals.

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

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 21, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Robert Gibney, DPSST No. 66390; Polk County Sheriff's Office

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – July 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

SALEM, Ore.—As temperatures rise and people flock to Oregon’s waterways for much needed relief, the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urge boaters and swimmers to be aware of the hidden dangers of cold water. Despite warm air temperatures, rivers and lakes remain dangerously cold, increasing the risk of cold shock, swimming failure, and drowning. 

“Many people underestimate the effects of cold water,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “Inexperience and not being prepared for the conditions are factors leading to accidents. Planning ahead, boating with others, always keeping a sharp lookout, and wearing a properly fitted life jacket are key to staying safe.” 

Cold Water Risks 

Even experienced swimmers can struggle in cold water. Sudden immersion can cause cold shock, leading to involuntary gasping and rapid breathing, which increases the risk of drowning. Cold water also drains body heat 25 times faster than cold air, leading to hypothermia. 

"We've seen a rise in water rescue incidents in the past few weeks, because people underestimate the deadly combination of warm air and dangerously cold water," said Scott Lucas, OEM Statewide Search and Rescue Coordinator. "Cold shock and hypothermia set in quickly, even for strong swimmers, and fast-moving currents make self-rescue nearly impossible. We urge everyone to plan ahead, wear a life jacket, and respect the power of cold water—it can be unforgiving." 

Additionally, recent snowmelt has caused swift currents and floating debris, making navigation more hazardous. The National Weather Service warns that local rivers and lakes are not as warm as they will be in late summer, and the combination of high-water levels and frigid temperatures can be deadly. 

Boating Safety Tips 

The Oregon State Marine Board advises boaters to plan ahead and check out the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps and local rules for boat operations. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions and have the right gear for your boating activity. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat.  

The Oregon State Marine Board also advises boaters to: 

• Choose a waterway that matches your skill level to avoid dangerous situations. 
• Wear a properly fitted life jacket—it significantly increases survival chances. 
• Check the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map for public boat ramps and local rules. 
• Monitor weather forecasts, water levels, and tides before heading out. 
• Be courteous to other boaters and stage gear in designated areas to ensure smooth launching. 

Legal Requirements: 

• Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket when underway on all boats. 
• Boaters in Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket. 
• All boaters must complete a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating a powerboat over 10 horsepower. 
• Paddlers of non-motorized boats 10 feet and longer must purchase a waterway access permit. 

For more information on safe boating in Oregon, visit Boat.Oregon.gov. 

What to Do if Someone Has Been Submerged in Cold Water 

Cold water can be deadly, even for experienced swimmers. If you find yourself in dangerously cold water, following these essential survival strategies can increase your chances of making it out safely. 

Immediate Actions in Cold Water 

Cold water can kill. The following guidelines from the U.S. Coast Guard will increase your chance for survival: 

• Stay calm—panicking can increase heat loss and make it harder to think clearly. 
• Get out of the water as quickly as possible but do so safely to avoid injury. 
• Use floating objects to keep yourself above water if available. 
• Keep as much of your body out of the water as possible to slow heat loss. 
• Assess your options—if swimming to safety is possible, do so calmly. 
• If you cannot swim to safety, conserve energy and body heat and wait for rescue. 

The H.E.L.P. Position 

If rescue isn’t immediate and you're unable to reach safety, use the Heat Escape Lessening Position (H.E.L.P.) to protect vital areas and reduce heat loss: 

• Draw your knees to your chest and keep your legs together. 
• Press your arms against your sides while keeping your head above water. 
• If others are in the water with you, huddle together to preserve heat. 

Providing Aid to Cold Water Victims 

If you or someone else has been submerged in cold water, follow these steps developed by the Red Cross) to ensure proper care: 

1. Call 911 or emergency services immediately. 
2. Move the person to a warm, sheltered place with minimal movement to avoid shock. 
3. Check breathing and circulation, administering rescue breathing or CPR if necessary. 
4. Remove wet clothing and dry the person as much as possible. 
5. Warm the person gradually by wrapping them in blankets or dressing them in dry clothing. 
6. Use warm compresses (hot water bottles or chemical hot packs wrapped in towels) to help retain heat. 
7. Avoid rapid warming—do not immerse the person in warm water, as this can trigger dangerous heart rhythms. 
8. Warm the core first (chest and abdomen) rather than extremities like hands and feet. 

Understanding and following these steps can prevent cold shock, hypothermia, and exhaustion, significantly improving survival chances in freezing water conditions. Stay alert, stay prepared, and respect the dangers of cold water—even on warm days. 

ROWENA, Ore. – Firefighters working on the Rowena Fire overnight, although continuing to be challenged by the wind, were able to push forward on progress around the town of Rowena and along Highway 30. Sustained winds of 20-30 miles per hour were observed across the fire, however little fire growth was seen. An Infrared (IR) flight was ordered and placed the fire around 3,831 acres. More accurate mapping will be available as firefighters continue to work along the fire line and gather data.

Goals for today are centered around holding the fire in its current footprint, limiting growth and protecting homes and natural resources. Aircraft will continue to remain a critical asset on the fire, and more have been ordered. With more resources arriving to the incident, firefighters will be able to deploy more direct tactics, working at the fire’s edge to create a control line and hold the fire. As this work progresses, containment will increase.

Structural resources will continue to work around homes near the fire’s perimeter, mopping up areas that have seen fire. Firefighters will also be removing hazardous trees to increase safety in the area while work is ongoing and ahead of any residents returning. Firefighters are working as quickly and safely as possible with current evacuations in mind, as well as future fire potential across the state.

“It’s very early in fire season for us to be dealing with a large, fast-moving fire like the Rowena Fire, and deploying one of our incident management teams,” Craig Pettinger, ODF Team 2 Deputy IC said. “It doesn’t bode well for what’s ahead of us knowing we already expect an active fire season. We have a lot of fire season ahead of us, and long seasons take a toll on our firefighters and communities across the state.”

Temperatures will be slightly cooler today in the 70s, and relative humidity will be higher, predicted to reach the mid-30s, meaning more moisture will be in the air. These conditions may help to naturally lower the intensity of the fire behavior, however winds will remain steady and create smoky conditions.

A community meeting will be held tonight at 7 p.m. at The Dalles High School auditorium, 220 E 10th St The Dalles, Oregon 97058, to provide a current fire update to the public. A recording of the meeting will be later posted on YouTube and Facebook for those who can’t attend in person.

Level 1, 2 and 3 evacuations remain in effect under the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office’s direction. You can search for specific addresses here: https://perimetermap.com/wascocounty-or. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://perimetermap.com/wascocounty-or

The Red Cross has opened a shelter at The Dalles Middle School at 1100 East 12th Street. Livestock and horses can be taken to the Wasco County Fairgrounds at 81849 Fairgrounds Road.

I-84 remains open, however firefighters are continuing to work near the roadway; be aware of crews when driving through the area.

Closures: Due to the fires, Mayer State Park is closed to the public. More information is available here: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=117. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=117

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A “TFR” is in place at an altitude from the surface up to and including 6500 feet, daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Flying a drone near or around a wildfire compromises the safety of pilots and interferes with firefighting efforts.

A daily media availability will occur at Mayer State Park East at 1p.m. until further notice. Please RSVP to imt2.fireinfo@odf.oregon.gov or call Natalie Weber at 541-621-4005 .

The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Tuesday, June 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. The public portion of the meeting begins at 9:35 a.m. This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_6_24_2025.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

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During this month of appreciation for fathers, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the critical role fathers play in a child’s physical, emotional and social development. ODHS is working to better support fathers involved in the child welfare system through two programs that provide peer mentorship, parenting skills and supports for incarcerated fathers, as well as a Father’s Advisory Board that provides regular input to ODHS Child Welfare leadership and frontline workers.

The two programs focus on peer mentorship and advocacy to help fathers navigate the system and reconnect with their children. Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) runs the Incarcerated Fathers Program serving African American men during incarceration and post-release. Fathers receive skill building classes to strengthen their parenting skills and build strong relationships with their children. ODHS also partners with Morrison Child and Family Services to connect fathers with open child welfare cases to peer mentors for support and encouragement.

ODHS is investing in these programs because of the expressed need for services and training that do a better job of locating and engaging fathers, and keeping fathers connected to their children after a child welfare intervention. When children enter the child welfare system, fathers are often sidelined or overlooked due to negative perceptions about their interest or capacity to be involved in their children’s lives. National studies show that caseworker bias against fathers can prevent equal outreach to fathers after a child welfare intervention. Yet national child welfare experts say father-inclusive practices in child welfare are essential to child safety and well-being and can minimize the amount of time children are separated from their family. Children with involved fathers are more likely to do well in school, have high self-esteem and avoid high risk behaviors, according to a 2024 report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Head Start Bureau. 

Negative bias toward fathers is particularly strong if fathers are in recovery or have been/are currently incarcerated. This, in addition to racism and disproportionate numbers of Black, American Indian and Alaska Native children in the foster care system add to the challenges facing fathers who want to stay connected to their children.

“Fathers are vital to a child’s well-being, and it is our job to engage fathers and invite them into the process of reunifying their families. We do that through concerted efforts that show respect and value for the role fathers play as a nurturers and resources for their children,” said ODHS Child Welfare Director Aprille-Flint Gerner. “We are grateful to our community partners for leading culturally responsive programs that support fathers for long-term success.”

After a child welfare case is opened, caseworkers begin working with parents to establish a plan for a variety of services, supports and a plan for reunifying the family when a child has been removed from the home due to safety issues. When parents are separated, do not live together, or a father is incarcerated or in recovery, the mother is the primary contact for child welfare. The perspective of the father is often absent in discussions related to their children, and most resources and supports are designed with the assumption that mothers are the primary caregivers. These assumptions can keep fathers from having a voice in critical decisions related to child welfare cases, visitation, and input into case planning to prepare for the child’s return to their family.

Services and programs for fathers are also minimal compared to those available for mothers. Statewide, there are 250 residential treatment beds for mothers in substance use disorder treatment to be with their children while in treatment. For fathers, there are just 10 beds available through the OnTrack Rogue Valley Dad’s Program in Medford. ODHS awarded OnTrack a grant in 2022 to renovate the Cobblestone Village Complex in Medford to add six more beds for fathers in treatment, among other design upgrades and residential facilities to serve families. The renovated complex is due to open in 2026.

The ODHS Father’s Advisory Board members, many of whom work as peer mentors through Morrison Child and Family Services, are making a difference by advocating for the perspective of fathers in ODHS caseworker trainings, and by regularly advising ODHS Child Welfare staff and leadership in Multnomah County.

One peer mentor and Father’s Advisory Board member stated, “Child welfare programs have made progress, but we still need more active outreach and connection with dads. Sometimes dads are informed about a decision, not consulted as an equal parent. The system is confusing and can be really discouraging for fathers who feel judged as deadbeat dads,” he said. “But as advocates, we are here to give other dads hope and let them know, you can do this, you can be there for your kids. It is about making life better for the kids. If I can do it, you can do it.”

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About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

Resources

Programs for incarcerated fathers or fathers involved with child welfare

• Videos about Self Enhancement Inc.’s Incarcerated Fathers Program and Fatherhood Engagement Program
• Morrison Family Services Parent Mentor Program
• OnTrack Rogue Valley Dad’s Program

Other community programs for fathers

• Squires Empowering Young Dads
• Healthy Birth Initiatives Father Involvement Program
• 4Fathers Program (mentoring, support groups, job readiness)

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

Amani, age 3, is a child who went missing from Beaverton on June 6. She was found June 11.

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

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

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(Salem) – Amani Ray Keith, age 3, went missing with her mother Emma Keith from Beaverton on June 6. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that Amani may be at risk and is searching for her to assess her safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Amani. Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of Amani or Emma Keith should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

They are believed to be in the Vancouver, Washington or Portland Metro area.

Name: Amani Ray Keith
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: April 28, 2022
Height: 3-foot-6
Weight: 26 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Blue
Washington County Sheriff’s Office Case #50 2025-7882
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Case number pending

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

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

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

Julian Yellowtail, age 14, Silas Yellowtail, age 15, and Trenton “Ty” Yellowtail, age 18, went missing in May from Portland. All three of the brothers were found on June 9 and 10.

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

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

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet virtually in executive session on Monday, June 16 at 11:15 a.m. to consider employment of the Department of State Lands Director, as authorized by ORS 192.660(2)(a).

During a future meeting open to the public, the Land Board will consider appointing a Director and accept comment. This meeting will be scheduled and noticed at a later date.
 

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

June 12, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist,  PHD.Communications@oha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Services publishes interactive data dashboard

Data show 1,509 clients received services between January and April 2025, with six experiencing behavioral, medical or post-session reactions

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) at Oregon Health Authority has published new data on a just-launched interactive online dashboard based on implementation of new legislation.

The OPS Data Dashboard includes data reported by licensed service centers in accordance with SB 303 (2023), now codified in Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 475A. See ORS 475A.372 and ORS 475A.374.

The dashboard contains multiple datasets that can be accessed on interactive pages related to safety, psilocybin product sales, licensing, compliance and demographic data. Each page includes an overview, a summary of data, methods and limitations, and data tables.

According to new data posted on the dashboard which became available following the passage of SB 303, a total of 1,509 clients received psilocybin services between January and April 2025. During that time, two clients experienced severe adverse behavioral reactions, three experienced adverse medical reactions, and one experienced post-session reactions.

Examples of other new data include client demographics such as the reasons for accessing services, county of residence, age and income level. Also included are the number of clients served, the number and type of administrative violations and the number and severity of adverse reactions.

For the complete list of available data, visit the OPS Data Dashboard.

Background:

The OPS Data Dashboard publishes available data on regulated psilocybin services in Oregon under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act (ORS 475A). This data will be updated on a quarterly basis.

Senate Bill 303 and Data Collection Information: In 2023, the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 303 (SB 303) which requires psilocybin service centers to collect and report this data beginning in 2025. In addition, SB 303 requires OPS to publish certain license and compliance data.

OPS Data Privacy and Security Fact Sheet: OPS prioritizes data privacy and security, ensuring accountability with OHA’s data standards before publishing on the OPS Data Dashboard.

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June 12, 2025

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

OHA shares summer resources list for LGBTQIA2S+ youth

As school year ends, agency reaffirms support for queer young people

PORTLAND, Ore. — As the 2024-2025 school year wraps up statewide this week, Oregon Health Authority is sharing resources to promote well-being, safety, security and inclusion among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, questioning and (+) (LGBTQIA2S+) youth.

“We’ve shared this list of resources the last few years because young people in our state need to have access to resources that help them celebrate the diversity of their identities all year long, not just during the school year,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA.

Summer months can be a challenging time for queer youth and their families as many supports they have access to during the school year are no longer available. Since 2022, OHA has helped celebrate gender and sexual orientation diversity by highlighting resources available to LGBTQIA2S+ youth during summer.

June also happens to be Pride Month, Sidelinger noted, when OHA and its public health partners show support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, families and organizations.

Communities, families and trusted adults play a critical role in supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children’s well-being. When families promote self-esteem, overall health and strong, affirming relationships, they protect LGBTQIA2S+ young people against potential suicidal behavior, depression and substance use.

Many local, state and national resources are available for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and families to help them thrive all summer, and all year:

• The Oregon Youth Resource Map is designed to help young people ages 16-25 and their allies connect to youth-serving resources, organizations and leadership opportunities. The map centers youth needs and voices, and includes services for health and mental health care, housing, education and more.
• TransActive Gender Project at Lewis & Clark Graduate School works to empower transgender and gender-expansive children, youth and their families in living healthy lives free of discrimination through a range of services and expertise.
• PFLAG (formerly Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) offers quick tips to parents and caregivers for supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children during the coming-out process. PFLAG also has eight chapters in Oregon, including in Eastern, Southern and Central Oregon and the Portland metro area.
• The Family Acceptance Project works to increase family and community support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, decrease health and mental health risks, and promote well-being. An Oregon page also is available.
• The Trevor Project promotes suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people. Public education materials are available on its website, and it recently published the results of its 2023 National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People.
• Outside In (Portland) welcomes and encourages all from the LGBTQIA2S+ community to connect, feel seen and heard, and provides free resources such as counseling, medical services and wraparound support for homeless youth and other people that have been marginalized who meet diagnostic criteria. Call 503-535-3828.
• New Avenues for Youth’s Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center in downtown Portland provides culturally specific support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth. Also, its Youth Opportunity Center is open 24/7 for youth ages 9-17 in crisis or who need a safe place to stay. Drop-in hours are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for youth ages 9-24. Call 971-754-4350.
• The Next Door provides youth outreach in schools, life skills training and mentoring programs such as Gorge Youth Mentoring. It supports a youth advisory council, gender-affirming locker rooms and, in partnership with Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, promotes 30 Days of Gay events as part of Pride Month in June.
• Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living (EOCIL) provides safe spaces, community building and empowerment for two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ populations, including people with and without disabilities, and allies in 13 Eastern Oregon counties. As one of the largest and oldest two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ service providers and employers in Eastern Oregon, EOCIL proudly serves the two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities of Baker, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler counties.

OHA works with other state agencies, counties, Tribal nations, communities and advocacy groups across the state to ensure youth in Oregon have access to support and services, including offering links and contact information to help lines and other resources:

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7, is for people in any type of behavioral health crisis, such as mental health-related distress, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or substance use crisis. People can get help by calling 988, texting 988 or chatting online at 988lifeline.org.
• 988 offers specialized support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth under age 25 by calling 988 and pressing 3 or texting “Q” to 988.
• Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide is dedicated to preventing youth and young adults in Oregon from dying by suicide. Call 503-399-7201 for more information (not a crisis hotline).
• Oregon LGBTQ Support, from Oregon LGBTQ Youth & Family Resources, lists resources that focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.
• The YouthLine offers peer-to-peer help, support and crisis intervention for youth ages 10-24. Phone, text, and chat support are available where trained youth respond from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Time, every day of the year (Adults are available by phone at all other times).  
  • Call: 877-968-8491
  • Text: teen2teen to 839863
  • Chat: theyouthline.org 

June 11, 2025

Contact: Amber Shoebridge, er.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov, 503-931-9586

Oregon State Hospital receives CMS statement of deficiencies

(Salem, Ore.) – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon State Hospital (OSH) are responding to a statement of deficiencies from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), following an April survey.

The deficiencies identified in the report relate to the hospital’s policies and procedures around patients’ rights and the responsibilities of its governing body to ensure patients receive safe and appropriate care.

“This report is a clarion call for the need for the immediate changes being implemented now that will have impact to assure that patients at OSH are safe and receiving the care they need and deserve,” said OHA Deputy Director Dave Baden, who was named OSH acting superintendent on April 11. “Sustained and ongoing cultural changes at the hospital will take time. We need to improve our processes in support of not only patients in seclusion or high-risk patients, but every patient at OSH.”

The statement of deficiencies, which cites instances of system-level failures, comes after CMS surveyors visited OSH after placing the hospital in immediate jeopardy (IJ) which could have resulted in the hospital losing CMS participation eligibility. The hospital put in place corrective actions, which led to CMS lifting the IJ status on May 12, 2025.

Hospital staff have worked to implement crucial improvements to the care and monitoring of patients in seclusion and restraint as well as high-risk patients. Other changes include innovations like transitioning three patient units into psychiatric intensive care units in April to improve care and interventions.  

“The culture at OSH must change if we hope to ensure accountability and provide the highest quality of care for every person admitted to OSH. There is no other option,” said OHA Acting Director Kris Kautz.  

“Our PoC will include strategies from our stabilization plan; many of which have already been implemented,” Baden said. “Two key changes implemented in the past few weeks are designed to provide more support for unit staff and leaders who are responsible for the daily care of patients. That’s our pause on telework for patient-facing staff and managers and mandatory rounding or visits to units by OSH leaders. The goal is increased visibility and improved communication between leadership and staff, as well as patients.”

The stabilization plan was released on April 30. It includes strategies to improve patient daily care and safety specific to three objectives: to decrease the likelihood of sentinel events (events that can lead to harm, injury or death), to improve OSH’s function as a 24/7 hospital, and to provide staff with clearer direction and empowerment to keep patients safe. 

The statement of deficiencies can be found on the OSH website. The document has been redacted. As a medical provider and a HIPAA-covered entity, OSH is prohibited by federal and state privacy law from sharing a patient’s protected health information.

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Oregon to get lower-cost, lifesaving treatment to people with rare and severe diseases 

June 9, 2025

Public hearings scheduled for June 23 and 25

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) published a draft Action Plan Amendment for a $422 million disaster recovery grant and is seeking public input on the changes. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) is administered through a suite of programs, also known as “ReOregon.” These programs support individuals, households, and communities as they continue to recover from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds.

The draft Action Plan Amendment would reallocate program funds to support the Gates Wastewater Collection System project in Marion County so it can meet the grant’s timelines and streamline construction. This project is critical for wildfire recovery and increasing housing supply. A short summary of the key elements of the plan and the entire draft Action Plan Amendment is available for review on OHCS’ website at https://re.oregon.gov.

Public comment on the draft Action Plan Amendment will be taken for 30 days through public hearings, online form, email, mail, or telephone. The hearings will include a short presentation by Marion County representatives and OHCS officials, followed by public feedback. Printed copies of the plan will be available by request.

Public hearing details:

When: Monday, June 23

Doors open: 5:30 p.m.

Public hearing: 6 p.m.

Where: Marion County Board of Commissioners Board Room, 555 Court St. NE, Suite 5232, Salem

For those who cannot attend in person, a virtual hearing on Zoom will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. Please register to attend.

Information presented at the public hearings will be available on the ReOregon website at re.oregon.gov. Spanish translation services will be available at all the public hearings. Please email hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov if you need special accommodations.

In addition to providing comment at the hearings, the public will be able to do so by:

• E-mail: hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov
• Online form:
  • English: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973bb258ac77e3a4fdb47a0bc601f2
  • Spanish: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973cd96f8a7b50b47661f3d5c4d016
• Phone: 877-510-6800
• Mail: OHCS, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266

All comments must be submitted to OHCS no later than 11:59 p.m. July 9, 2025.

After the 30-day public comment period, feedback will be incorporated into the plan before OHCS submits it to HUD for review and approval, which can take up to 45 days. As required by HUD, OHCS will address all comments received.

To learn more about ReOregon programs, visit re.oregon.gov or sign up to receive e-mail notifications.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services 
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. 

9 de junio de 2025

Contacto para medios de comunicación:

Delia Hernández, 503-986-2051

equests@hcs.oregon.gov">HCS.mediarequests@hcs.oregon.gov

Se solicita opinión pública para una propuesta de Enmienda Sustancial para los fondos designados a la recuperación de desastres

Se programan audiencias públicas para el 23 y 25 de junio

SALEM, Ore. – El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) ha publicado una propuesta de Enmienda al Plan de Acción para los $422 millones en fondos federales para la recuperación de desastres y solicita opinión pública ante los cambios.

OHCS administra un conjunto de programas conocidos como “ReOregon”, que apoyan a las personas, hogares y comunidades a medida que continúan recuperándose de los incendios forestales del Día del Trabajo de 2020 y los vientos en línea recta.

OHCS está buscando comentarios del público sobre la propuesta de Enmienda del Plan de Acción, que reasigna los fondos del programa para apoyar el proyecto del Sistema de Recolección de Aguas Residuales de Gates para que pueda cumplir con los plazos de la subvención y agilizar la construcción. Este proyecto es fundamental para la recuperación tras el incendio forestal y para la construcción de nuevas viviendas. Puede consultarse un breve resumen de los elementos clave del plan y el proyecto completo de Enmienda del Plan de Acción en el sitio web de la OHCS: https://re.oregon.gov. 

Se invita a los miembros de la comunidad a dar su opinión sobre la propuesta de Enmienda al Plan de Acción a través de un período de comentarios de 30 días. OHCS solicitará comentarios a través de audiencias públicas, formulario en línea, correo electrónico, correo postal o teléfono. Las audiencias incluirán una breve presentación de parte de funcionarios de OHCS, seguida de comentarios del público. Se podrán solicitar copias impresas del plan.

Aquí los detalles de la audiencia pública:

Cuándo: Lunes, 23 de junio

Puertas abiertas: 5:30 p.m.

Audiencia comienza: 6 p.m.

Dónde: Marion County Board of Commissioners Board Room, 555 Court St. NE, Suite 5232, Salem

Para quienes no puedan asistir en persona, se llevará a cabo una audiencia por internet en Zoom a las 6 p.m. el miércoles 25 de junio. Por favor, regístrese para asistir.

Toda la información presentada en las audiencias públicas estará disponible en el sitio de internet de ReOregon, re.oregon.gov. En las audiencias públicas habrá servicios de traducción al español. Si necesita algún servicio especial, envíe un correo electrónico a hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov.

Además de presentar comentarios en las audiencias, el público podrá hacerlo a través de:

• Correo electrónico: hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov
• Formulario en internet:
  • Inglés: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/595b3469a058469e9b296542f3b7251e
  • Español: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/db5e76cc2e8947c1a73eeb3114eff277
• Teléfono: 877-510-6800
• Correo Postal: OHCS, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266

Todos los comentarios deben enviarse a OHCS antes de las 11:59 p.m., 9 de julio de 2025.

Después que termine el período de 30 días, los comentarios públicos recibidos se incorporarán al plan antes de que OHCS lo presente a HUD para su revisión y aprobación, lo que puede tardar hasta 45 días. Tal y como exige HUD, OHCS dará seguimiento a los comentarios recibidos.

Para obtener más información sobre los programas ReOregon, visite re.oregon.gov o inscríbase para recibir notificaciones por correo electrónico.

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.  

Hood River, Ore. – The State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) will meet on Friday, June 27, at the Hood River County Library (502 State Street, Hood River) to consider proposed nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The SACHP meeting is open to the public and offered in a hybrid meeting format.
 

The meeting agenda includes a guided walking tour, presentations, and hearings for two proposed nominations. The guided tour will begin at 9:30 a.m., and the business meeting will begin at 12:45 p.m. While the tour is available to in-person participants only, anyone may attend the business meeting in person or virtually; instructions for how to attend virtually are posted on the committee web page: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx. Registration is required to speak at the meeting, either in person or through the virtual meeting platform. For those wishing to observe the proceedings but not wishing to provide testimony, the business meeting will also be livestreamed to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams.
 

The business meeting will include an update on Oregon Heritage’s grant programs and a presentation on the role of context in assessing historic significance. Beginning at 3:00pm, the committee will review proposed nominations for the Methodist Episcopal Church of Union, Union County, and the Balch Gulch Bridge in Portland, Multnomah County. For copies of the proposed nominations and the full meeting agenda, please see the committee web page: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx.
 

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

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

More information about the National Register of Historic Places process is online at www.oregonheritage.org.

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 35 matching grants worth over $10,600,000 to Oregon Main Street Network organizations across the state for building projects that will strengthen local economies. Projects range from façade improvement to basic facilities and housing with awards ranging from $17,900-$400,000. 
 

The department funded Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant (OMSRG) applications that best conveyed the ability to stimulate private investment and local economic development, fit within the community’s long-range plan for downtown vitality, and community need.

Funded projects include:

• Several projects will address a variety of preservation needs to increase the viability of spaces for existing businesses or opportunities for new businesses. These range from window repair to electrical and plumbing and include projects by Baker City Downtown, Canyonville Main Street Association, City of Estacada, City of North Bend, City of Reedsport, Dallas Downtown Association, Downtown Alliance of Milwaukie, Downtown Corvallis Organization, Friends of La Grande Main Street, Gold Beach Main Street, Historic Willamette Main Street (West Linn), Main Street Cascade Locks, Main Street Grants Pass, Oregon Frontier Chamber of Commerce projects in Condon and Antelope, Port Orford Main Street, Spruce Up Warrenton, St Helens Main Street Alliance, Sutherlin Downtown Development, Inc., Tigard Downtown Alliance, Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce projects in Enterprise, Joseph and Wallowa.
• Creation of new or improved housing units  including projects by Astoria Downtown Historic District Association and Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce.
• Façade restoration projects by the Albany Downtown Association, City of Cornelius, Friends of Old Town Stayton, and Historic Downtown Gresham Association.  
• Structural and roof prepare projects were approved for Thrive Umpqua (Roseburg) and United Community Partners, Inc. (Halfway).
• Creation of new or improved lodging options by Chiloquin Visions in Progress and Klamath Falls Downtown Association.
• New construction will be funded by Mosier Main Street and Yamhill Downtown Association.

Oregon Heritage received a record number of 76 applications which demonstrates a clear need for building related funding. The local organizations participating in the Oregon Main Street Network developed plans based on community input to prioritize needs and solutions for the commercial district and city. The funds brought to the community by the local organizations through this grant will provide significant economic development impacts. “Vibrant downtowns don’t just happen,” notes Oregon Main Street coordinator Sheri Stuart. “They take the collective efforts coordinated by local main street organizations to achieve a community’s vision based on short- and long-term goals. The OMSRG is an important tool to help strengthen local economies by activating underused spaces while preserving and leveraging a community’s heritage.”
 

Since its creation by the Oregon Legislature in 2015, the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant has supported building projects to stimulate economic vitality in 59 communities. The local Main Street organizations administer the application and grant processes for the local property owners. These organizations brought between $53,000 to $900,000 to their communities through the life of the program, which awarded grants in 2017, 2019, 2022 and 2023. For example, the City of Reedsport has improved 10 properties and has six more in progress over multiple grant cycles which represents a significant investment downtown.
 

The results demonstrate that the grant is meeting its purpose to acquire, rehabilitate or construct buildings to facilitate community revitalization. Even with several projects still in progress, the local benefits are remarkable.

• 92 buildings improved
• 101 housing units added
• At least 12 vacant buildings filled
• 5 intentional ADA improvements
• 7 structural re-enforcement projects
• 31 façade restoration projects

The grant program was created during the 2015 legislative session and placed with the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office. The legislation established a permanent fund for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant, with an initial infusion of funds from the sale of lottery bonds. If funded by the 2025 state legislature, there will be future grant rounds in the 25-27 biennium. The funds must be used to award grants to participating Oregon Main Street Network organizations to acquire, rehabilitate or construct buildings to facilitate community revitalization. The program also requires that at least 50 percent of the funds go to rural communities as defined in the bill.
 

To learn more about the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant or the Oregon Main Street Network, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved temporary rules to protect residential customers—especially vulnerable households—from disconnection of electric utility services during extreme high temperatures.

Under the new rules, which will remain in effect through October 24, 2025, all regulated investor-owned utilities including Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp, and Idaho Power, are required to:

• Not disconnect service during peak heat – Utilities are prohibited from disconnecting electric service for 48-hours following a qualifying heat event, such as a heat advisory from the National Weather Service, ensuring households can safely cope with and recover from extreme temperatures.
• Reconnect service required during heat event – Customers whose utility services were disconnected up to 7 days before a heat event can request to be reconnected without delay once the heat event begins to help prevent risk to health and safety of residents.
• Waive reconnection fees – Although previous rules approved by the Commission waive select reconnection fees for any low-income customer, these temporary rules expand to waive all reconnection fees for medical certificate account holders or discount program participants earning less than 10 percent of state median income.
• Improve outreach and communication – The new rules require utilities to improve customer notifications to help ensure eligible customers are informed of their rights and can quickly access reconnection when needed.

“The Commission approved these rules to help ensure customers of the utilities we regulate will not lose power during dangerous heat events,” said Letha Tawney, PUC Chair. “These are critical steps to protect our most vulnerable neighbors and are timely as Oregon is already experiencing the first heat events of the summer.”

# # #

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Parks and Nature division of Clark County Public Works is removing some of the play equipment at Lewisville Regional Park. Older play equipment located in several areas of the park no longer meets current safety standards. Play equipment near the beach area south of the softball fields and equipment near the Alder shelter will not be removed.

Later this year, Parks and Nature will begin a process to update the park plan for Lewisville Regional Park. This process will identify a location for a new play area. Opportunities for input on the park plan update will be announced at a later date.

Removal of the older play equipment is scheduled to begin in late June and is expected to be completed by early July. Visitors may encounter short traffic delays and construction noise during the removal process. Visitors are reminded to stay out of work zones. Work is weather-dependent, and the schedule is subject to change. For more information, contact Park and Trails Planner Lynde Wallick at lynde.wallick@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5882.

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 seeking applicants for an open volunteer park host position at Moulton Falls Regional Park. Volunteer park hosts live at their assigned park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. This 387-acre park is located in Yacolt, at the confluence of the East Fork Lewis River and Big Tree Creek. It features two waterfalls and an iconic arch bridge more than three stories high. The next park host will help care for this park and its visitors.

Volunteer park hosts live at their assigned park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Host duties include (but are not limited to):

• Cleaning park restrooms daily and as needed in response to messes
• Opening park gates by 7 a.m. and closing gates at dusk (one half-hour after sunset) daily
• Notifying park users when the park is closing
• Emptying park garbage cans at least once daily, and as needed
• Picking up litter daily
• Notifying staff of emergencies, urgent maintenance needs or impacts of severe weather
• Helping to identify and respond to safety and security concerns in the park

The park host at Moulton Falls Regional Park must reside in the county-owned residence at the park. Clark County provides basic utilities for the host including electricity, water, sewer and garbage/recycling.

All park host service terms are through Dec. 31. A host may be offered a term for the next calendar year based on results of a performance evaluation performed in the late summer or early fall.

Applicants offered positions must submit to state and federal background checks and fingerprinting, provide a rental history and proof of renter’s insurance. Successful applicants will not be able to move into the park and begin service until all required documents have been submitted, they’ve been cleared through the background check and fingerprinting process, and their agreement has been signed by the county manager. Due to the variable amount of time required for these processes, successful applicants must be prepared to not be able to move into their assigned site for several weeks.

More information about these positions, the volunteer park host program policies, requirements, minimum qualifications, duties, and more can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#host.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer#volunteer-park-host. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Translated application materials and interpretation services available upon request to Cindy Gonzalez, volunteer program coordinator, at cindy.gonzalez@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.1679.

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. – The Clark County Agricultural Advisory Commission will hold its first meeting 5-6:30 pm Monday, June 23.

The hybrid meeting will have both in-person and virtual attendance options. Participants can attend in person in the sixth-floor hearing room in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. or online using the Webex platform with the information below.

• Meeting link
• Webinar number: 2488 986 1012
• Passcode: juneagcom (58632426 when dialing from a phone or video system)
• Join by phone: 1-408-418-9388
  • Access code: 2488 986 1012

The Clark County Council in November 2024, approved an ordinance establishing the 13-member commission. The purpose of the Agricultural Advisory Commission is to provide reviews and recommendations to the County Manager, County Council, the Planning Commission and other appropriate boards and commissions on issues that affect agriculture in Clark County. The commission will also provide a forum for those in the agricultural community and others interested in enhancing and promoting the long-term sustainability of agriculture in Clark County.

Please note: The original news release had an incorrect meeting date. The correct date is June 18.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Commission on Aging’s charge is to provide leadership in addressing the special needs of the aging population and to manage and assist with the implementation of the county’s Aging Readiness Plan.  This month, the Commission focuses on Chapter 2 of the Aging Readiness Plan—Healthy Communities. The COA and their guests will discuss opportunities and programs oriented to older adults and social connection.

The meeting will be 4:30 pm Wednesday, June 18, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are currently held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23/323 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

The Commission on Aging, supported by the of the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members.

(Astoria, OR) — The Columbia Outboard Racing Association is hosting its annual Sherri Hathaway Memorial Regatta races at Cullaby Lake County Park the weekend of June 21-22, 2025.

The boat ramp and the waters of Cullaby Lake will be closed for racing from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. 

The races are free for the public to view from the park and the park is open for picnicking and other activities, however, there is a $5 day-use parking fee for the County Park entry.

For more information, contact Clatsop County Parks at 503-325-6452.

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The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of trustees will be held on Monday, June 16, 6:00 pm, at Ridgefield Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. Agenda: https://www.fvrl.org/sites/default/files/2025-06/Board%20Agenda_2025_06-16.pdf 

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

Happy Valley’s Dumpster Day is back! This community event gives residents a chance to get rid of unwanted household items in a safe and responsible way—while also helping the environment and supporting community members in need.

This year’s Dumpster Day focuses on sustainability and smart recycling. With a variety of designated drop-off stations, residents will have the opportunity to learn how to properly dispose of common household items—ensuring materials are recycled rather than ending up in the landfill. Our community partner Metro will be on hand to safely collect items like household batteries, light bulbs, and sharps as well as Les Schwab will also be on-site to collect old tires, making it easy to dispose of them. Be sure to bring any sensitive paperwork for on-site document shredding—a free service that helps you protect your personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft.  Residents will also be able to swing by our public works department and drop off yard debris FREE of charge too. 

Residents are also encouraged to bring donations for Goodwill, who will be on site collecting gently used clothing, household items, and more. These donations help local families who may not be able to afford everyday essentials.

A new addition to Dumpster Day this year is a partnership with Reborn Bikes, a nonprofit that collects and repairs used bicycles. The bikes are then given to people in need, helping them get to school or work. If you have an old bike, you no longer use, this is a great chance to pass it along to someone who will.

Please note: This event is open to Happy Valley residents only. Proof of residency may be requested at the entrance.

This event is taking place on Saturday June 14^th from 8am-Noon at Happy Valley Park (13770 SE Ridgecrest Rd. Happy Valley, Or). Visit hv.city/dumpster-day for all the details.

SALEM, Ore. — Starting next week with Liberty Street NE, City of Salem Public Works will begin strengthening four area bridges using funds from the voter-approved 2022 Safety and Livability Bond.

Beginning June 16 and continuing through November, workers will strengthen the bridges to allow heavier trucks to safely pass over local waterways. These bridges are:

• Liberty Street NE over Mill Creek
• 17^th Street NE over Mill Creek
• 15th Street NE over Mill Creek
• Mission Street SE over Pringle Creek

Liberty Street NE over Mill Creek will be the first bridge under construction. The contractor will close the southbound lane to allow for equipment and materials staging to perform the work. Traffic Alerts and other information will be released as other projects begin.

Drivers and pedestrian should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic control signage. There will be lane shifting on 17th Street NE and Mission Street SE during construction, single lane closure on Liberty Street NE during construction, and street closure on 15th Street NE.

Site specific information for each bridge can be found at https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/shaping-salem-s-future/safety-and-livability-bond.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem: https://public-construction-salem.hub.arcgis.com/

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

SALEM, Ore. — Road work on Lone Oak Road SE will include weekday lane closures and one weekend total road closure June 21-22.

Starting June 9, the southbound lane of Lone Oak Road SE is closed between Kuebler Boulevard SE and Khartoum Street SE weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Additionally, Lone Oak Road SE will be closed between Kuebler Boulevard SE and Khartoum Street SE June 21-22 for the installation of a gas line. Traffic will be detoured to Liberty Road S and then Holder Lane SE.  

These closures will allow for NW Natural Gas to install a new high-pressure regulator. This work is projected to be completed by the end of August. 

Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage and watch for workers in the area.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem: https://public-construction-salem.hub.arcgis.com/

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

• Don’t miss the free 4^th of July Spectacular fireworks display at the fairgrounds.
• Celebrating at home? Follow these safety rules to avoid related injury and fire damage

Salem, Ore. – Summer temperatures, dry conditions and risk of injury make it important to use fireworks safely.  This July, enjoy a free 4^th of July Spectacular fireworks display at the Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center.

In Salem, we depend on the community to use fireworks responsibly and legally. Especially on the 4^th of July, fireworks complaints can overwhelm emergency call centers and stretch the limits of emergency responders. We need your help keeping emergency responders available for urgent life-saving needs in our community. 

To report Illegal fireworks at specific addresses, please call the Salem Fire Department’s non-emergency number at 503-588-6111 ext. 1.

As we near the 4^th of July festivities and celebrations, we ask you to limit fireworks-related 9-1-1 calls only to:

• Injuries
• Fires

Looking for a spectacular display? Visit the fairgrounds

The 4^th of July Spectacular at the Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center offers a free fireworks display. Gates open at 4 p.m., offering plenty of time for family fun before the fireworks begin at 10 p.m. You can buy fair food like corn dogs and cotton candy and enjoy rides on more than a dozen attractions provided by Rainier Amusement.

Tickets are also available for a Lil Jon concert with the Ying Yang Twins at the L.B. Day Amphitheater. General parking costs $10 per car, and VIP parking costs $20 per car.

The City of Salem funds the free fireworks show through a grant from Transient Occupancy Taxes. These taxes come from hotel and short-term lodging rentals.

Celebrating at home? Stay safe with these tips

Each year, Salem Fire responds to many fireworks-related incidents. Some cause significant damage to vehicles and buildings. More concerning are fireworks-related injuries. Children and teens are most likely to suffer a fireworks-related injury. Here are some tips to avoid injury or other damage:

• Use only legal fireworks purchased at licensed fireworks sellers between June 23 and July 6.
• Store fireworks out of children’s reach.
• Keep pets indoors so they won’t run away if frightened.
• Read and follow directions on the firework’s label.
• Allow only adults to light fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Don’t throw fireworks or hold them in your hand.
• Keep a garden hose and bucket of water nearby to quench used fireworks.
• Don’t pour this water into the street; it can carry fireworks debris untreated into local streams.

And please remember, fireworks are not allowed in city and state parks.

# # #

Salem, Ore. – Movies in the Park are returning to select Fridays at Riverfront Park’s Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater in July and August 2025! Here’s this year’s lineup of family-friendly movies:

• July 11, sunset (about 9 p.m.), Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, PG-13, 2 hours
• July 25, sunset (about 8:45 p.m.), Inside Out 2, PG, 1 hour 36 minutes
• Aug. 8, sunset (about 8:30 p.m.), The Wild Robot, PG, 1 hour 42 minutes
• Aug. 29, sunset (about 8 p.m.), Wicked, PG, 2 hours 40 minutes

Bring a blanket or low-back chair. Alcohol and smoking/vaping are not allowed.
 

Donations are collected at the amphitheater entrance for each show or donate any time through PayPal.
 

Details: https://salemor.gov/freemovies

See excavation site and recovered artifacts

Salem, Ore. – Join the public Archaeology Open House on June 13, 2025, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Willamette University. See our excavation site and recovered artifacts at the former Oregon Indian Mission Manual Labor School on Willamette University’s campus (east of Smullin Hall, 900 State Street, Salem).

Salem's public archaeology project is focusing on investigating the site of the former Oregon Indian Mission Manual Labor School on Willamette University's campus. A Certified Local Government (CLG) grant awarded to the City of Salem's Historic Landmarks Commission from Oregon Heritage is funding this public archaeology project.

The site is being explored by our Historic Preservation Program and community partners including Willamette University, the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde and the Oregon Archaeological Society. The site on the Willamette University campus is believed to be where the Methodists' 1841 Indian Manual Labor Training School was located.

In 1841-42, Methodist missionaries built two buildings in the vicinity. One structure that would come to be known as the Parsonage, was originally located near where the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill Building stands today. The second was originally known as the Indian Manual Labor Training School. In 1844, it became the Oregon Institute. Finally, in 1853 it became known as Willamette University.

Through several non-invasive surveying techniques and excavation, archaeologists are hoping to identify the location of these two buildings and to provide greater context to their original purposes through significant moments and places in Tribal history and Euro-American settlement of Salem.

Learn more about the Oregon Mission Indian Manual Labor Training School Archaeology Project.

# # #

The City of Troutdale, Oregon, has designated four finalists for the position of City Manager: Heidi Bell, Aaron Palmquist, Eric Underwood, and Mike Weston.  

The Troutdale community is invited to participate in facilitated roundtable group conversations with the finalists the evening of Monday, June 23rd from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm at Sam Cox Building, Glenn Otto Community Park, 1106 E. Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060.  

Participants are asked to attend for the entire time period to be able to meet with all of the finalists. Please contact Emily Rehder at Jensen Strategies for additional language or accessibility accommodations at emily@jensenstrategies.com.

HEIDI BELL
Heidi Bell most recently served as City Manager for the City of Sheridan, OR. Ms. Bell previously served as City Manager for the City of Donald, OR; City Clerk for the City of Amity, OR; and Planning Clerk for the City of Tualatin. Ms. Bell holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Oregon, a Master Certificate of Not-For-Profit Management, and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Linfield College. 

Ms. Bell said of her candidacy, “I’m honored to be a finalist for Troutdale City Manager and look forward to meeting community members at the upcoming reception. I’m excited about the opportunity to support the City Council and staff in advancing their goals and promoting thoughtful economic development that enhances the quality of life in Troutdale.”

AARON PALMQUIST

Aaron Palmquist currently serves as City Manager for the City of Irrigon, OR. He previously served as Operations and Quality Manager with the Central Oregon Health Board; Command Sergeant Major for the US Army Special Operations; Community Manager of Crooked River Ranch in Terrebonne, OR, and Senior Management Analyst for the City of Springfield, OR. Mr. Palmquist has a Master of Business and Public Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Communication from Corban University and has proudly served in the United States Army. 

Mr. Palmquist said of his candidacy, “I am a proactive and creative leader that gets people to yes and where character matters more than image. I look forward to working with the City Council, staff, and consultants providing safety and service to members and visitors of the community.”

ERIC UNDERWOOD

Eric Underwood currently serves as City Manager for the City of Donald, OR. Mr. Underwood has previously served as Local Government Affairs Manager for Portland General Electric; Economic Development Manager for the City of Oregon City, OR; Development Manager for the City of Tualatin, OR, and Economic Development Specialist for the City of Fairview, OR. Mr. Underwood holds a Master of Public Administration from Virginia Tech/Portland State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Radford University, and has proudly served in the United States Navy. 

Mr. Underwood said of his candidacy, “I’m honored to be selected as a finalist for the Troutdale city manager position. It’s a privilege to be considered for this exciting opportunity to serve such a vibrant community and to support its continued growth, transparency, and long-term success.” 

MIKE WESTON

Mike Weston currently serves as City Manager for the City of King City, OR. He previously served as Director of Business Development and operations, and Interim Executive Director for the Port of Astoria; County Planner for Clatsop County, OR; Economic Development Coordinator for Lane County, OR; and he is the CEO and Co-Founder of Frog Consulting LLC. Mr. Weston holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Oregon and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Planning, Public Policy, and Management and proudly served in the United States Navy. 

Mr. Weston said of his candidacy, “I am excited and incredibly honored to be selected as a finalist for the City Manager position. Troutdale is an amazing community with dynamic and inspiring opportunities, and I hope to contribute to its rich history, ongoing growth, and future success."

See the full announcement at troutdaleoregon.gov

Vancouver, WA – On June 9, the Vancouver City Council adopted a resolution to place a proposed amendment to the City Charter on the Nov. 5 General Election ballot.

If approved by the voters, the amendment would add Section 2.19 to the City Charter to allow election by district for some members of the Vancouver City Council.

As part of the ballot measure process, Washington State law, RCW 29A.32.280 requires cities to seek residents to be appointed to serve on either the Pro or Con committee for each ballot measure. To be eligible for appointment, individuals must reside within the jurisdictional boundaries of Vancouver.

"Residents may wonder why we are appointing committee members seeming so early in the electoral process," said Communications Director Laura Shepard. "This is because we must submit committee member names to the County Elections Office by August 5, followed by statements on August 15. We want to ensure the community has ample time to volunteer for these important roles.”

Once appointed, both committees work independently of the City to prepare a written statement advocating either approval or rejection of the ballot measure to appear in the Clark County Voter’s Pamphlet. Committee members’ names will be included with the statement. The committees will also have an opportunity to prepare and submit a rebuttal in response to the statement prepared by the opposition.

Interested residents can apply for either the Pro or Con Committee by contacting the City Manager’s Office at CMO@cityofvancouver.us by Monday, June 30 at 5 p.m. City staff will present the committee member appointments to the City Council at the July 14 Council Meeting.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – Due to arid conditions, Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli is issuing a total ban on recreational burning effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday, June 13, for the City of Vancouver. The recreational burning ban is based on weather conditions, fuel moisture content in vegetation and community fire safety needs. It will remain in effect throughout the summer/fall months or until weather and fire danger conditions greatly improve. Citations may be issued to those who violate the order. An update will be provided when the recreational burn ban is lifted. These types of fires are prohibited during the ban:

• Recreational fires and bonfires
• Campfires
• Fires in outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and chimney-type devices
• This ban excludes: Approved fire pit appliances such as natural gas/propane-powered equipment with approved fire safety clearances to combustibles.

Cooking outdoors in propane or charcoal barbecues approved for that type of use is still allowed during the burning ban. Cooking and heating fires in unmanaged situations such as encampments of unsheltered community members, are illegal under City ordinance and will be extinguished.

“The risk for fire is high and state officials have said that this year’s wildfire season has the potential to be challenging as the fine fuels continue to cure,” said Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli. “It is vital that everyone be extra vigilant about fire safety during this time. In addition to not using any recreational fires, we also ask that smokers never put out their cigarettes in bark mulch or planters or toss lit cigarettes out of car windows.”

While the recreational burn ban is in place, all fires will be illegal within the city limits. Community members are encouraged to call 911 and report any fire-related activity so it can be promptly extinguished by the fire department. Those who violate the recreational burn ban may be subject to a fire code citation and a $500 fine, which may include criminal penalties.

Learn more about fire and life safety prevention at  https://www.cityofvancouver.us/departments/fire-department/

Portland, Ore. – The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), housed within the City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS), and program administrator Earth Advantage are proud to announce that Cooling Portland: A PCEF-funded climate resilience program, has met its initial goal of installing 15,000 portable heat pump cooling units 18 months ahead of schedule.
 

Created in response to the deadly 2021 heat dome, Cooling Portland is a climate resilience program that provides free, energy-efficient cooling units to low-income Portlanders most vulnerable to extreme heat. Originally launched in 2022 with a five-year timeline, the program prioritizes seniors, people with disabilities, and others at heightened risk of heat-related illness or death. 

With the original goal met early, program efforts are now focused on installing an additional 10,000 units by 2026. This next phase is made possible by a $10.3 million expansion from PCEF’s Climate Investment Plan (CIP), approved by City Council in late 2024.
 

“This milestone represents the kind of climate investments PCEF was designed to support – community-centered, equity-driven, with real benefits for Portlanders who need it most,” said Jaimes Valdez, PCEF strategic partnerships and policy manager. “We are grateful for Earth Advantage and the Community Distribution Partners who have worked hard to make this program a possibility. Sign-ups and installations happen year-round, so we encourage eligible households to apply whenever it’s right for them.”
 

Cooling Portland is administered by Earth Advantage, which is responsible for equipment procurement, storage, and coordination with a network of Community Distribution Partners (CDPs). These CDPs, which include both housing providers and community-based organizations, identify eligible households, install units, and provide user education.
 

“Meeting the original goal early is a testament to the strength of the systems we’ve built with our distribution partners,” said Pilar Calderin, senior climate justice program manager at Earth Advantage. “But it also shows the depth of need in our community. With continued support, we’re committed to reaching the thousands more Portlanders who still need help to stay healthy during extreme heat.”
 

Thanks to a partnership with the City of Portland’s PDX 311 Program, Portlanders can call 3-1-1 to determine eligibility and get connected with a CDP.
 

“Cooling Portland is one example of how we’re working to make local government more accessible and responsive,” said Michelle Kunec-North, PDX 311 Program Manager. “Need help? Just call 311. We're here to connect everyone in Multnomah County to local government programs and services—no matter your language, income, or access to technology. Our goal is to make it easy for you to get the support you need.”

HOW TO APPLY:

Portlanders can find out if they’re eligible and apply for a free unit by calling 3-1-1 or visiting PCEF’s website. Sign-ups and installations happen year-round, so residents are encouraged to apply at any time, regardless of season.

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) is responsible for the City’s long-range planning and sustainability programs, among its broad portfolio. The bureau oversees a world-renowned waste and recycling system and leads the country in its commitment to digital equity, open data, and protecting communities in the application of technologies. Staff collaborate with partners on neighborhood, housing, economic, historic, and environmental planning and provide research, policy, and technical services to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as policies and actions to address climate change. The bureau also oversees the innovative Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF).  BPS is one of several bureaus and programs in the Community and Economic Development service area. This service area aligns City programs focused on building prosperity for all Portlanders. This is done by creating and delivering efficient, transparent, and equitable solutions for a resilient built environment – as well as services, resources, and experiences for our community. 
 

About the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund

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

About Earth Advantage

Earth Advantage is a nonprofit organization helping to advance a more informed and humane housing market. We work to ensure the US housing market recognizes the elements of homes that create climate risk and values the characteristics of homes that provide climate solutions. Our teams partner with entities across the country to develop tangible, systemic solutions for climate-friendly housing.
 

About 311
311 is the first call for community members who have questions or need help with local government services in Multnomah County.

Available seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., excluding federal holidays
 Call: 311 or 503-823-4000 (outside Multnomah County or via VoIP)
 Email: 311@portlandoregon.gov
 Language interpretation available — please allow 2–3 minutes to connect

Drivers advised to use public transit, bikes or ride share alternatives to travel to and from the event.

Tichner Drive remains closed during the event.

PORTLAND, OR – Planning to attend the sneak peek of the Washington Park reservoir on Saturday, June 14? Plan ahead. Road closures in the area and limited parking will make visits easiest by bus, train, shuttle and bike.

The SW Tichner Drive entrance to Washington Park remains closed to motor vehicle traffic between W Burnside and SW Kingston Ave due to a landslide. This means there will be heavier than usual traffic at the Park Place entrance to the event.

Everyone is encouraged to travel by public transit, bike or rideshare. Here are the easiest options:

•  TriMet Trip Option #1: MAX + Free Shuttle Loop. Hop on the MAX Red or Blue Line and ride to Washington Park Station. From there, the Washington Park Free Shuttle takes you right to the Oregon Holocaust Memorial stop, just steps from the celebration at the Reservoir. Pro tip: Park for free at a TriMet Park & Ride like Sunset Transit Center (600+ free parking spots), then ride one stop on MAX to Washington Park Station.
•  TriMet Trip Option #2: MAX + Trail Walk. Take the MAX to Goose Hollow and walk the Madison Street Trail into Washington Park. It’s a peaceful, 20-minute uphill walk that leads straight to the Reservoir site.
•  TriMet Trip Option #3: Direct Bus from Downtown. Ride TriMet Line 63 from Pioneer Courthouse Square for a direct trip to the park. Buses drop off at the Park Place Entrance and the International Rose Test Garden/Portland Japanese Garden, and they depart hourly from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• TriMet Trip Option #4: Bus + Trail Walk. Catch Lines 15 or 20 to NW 23rd & Burnside, then enjoy a one mile walk through the Park’s winding paths to the Reservoir. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

The public is invited to join the City of Portland’s Public Works Service Area as we unveil the yearslong restoration of the Washington Park Reservoir. This once-in-a-generation project provides a seismically resilient water supply for 360,000 westside water users and a beautiful new reflecting pool and plaza for the entire community to enjoy.

Learn about project benefits from elected officials and stay for tours of the new plaza’s educational elements and historic features. Tours are available to members of the public and the media. Visitors are invited to walk the grounds and explore the city’s newest attraction before it is officially open to the public.

When:             Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
 

Where:            Washington Park Upper Reflecting Pool and Main Plaza

More details about the celebration are available on our website here: Washington Park Reservoir Sneak Peek | Portland.gov

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of 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. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, and the Portland Water Bureau, maintaining over $60 billion in assets, a $2 billion annual budget, and 2,500 employees. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

The Portland Water Bureau continues to deliver clean and safe drinking water that meets or surpasses drinking water standards to nearly a million customers, according to our annual water quality report. And here’s how we know: We conduct more than 11,000 tests per year to track more than 200 potential contaminants. Tests are conducted throughout the system, all the way from the source to people’s taps.

Every year, the Portland Water Bureau issues the Drinking Water Quality Report to explain what’s in your water and what we do to keep it safe and flowing to your tap.

"We have some of the best drinking water in the world,” said Interim Portland Water Bureau Director Quisha Light. “And that’s thanks to decades of careful planning and ongoing investment in projects designed to keep our water safe and accessible.”

Read the online report to:

• Learn about your drinking water and our work to keep it safe
• Get answers to common drinking water quality questions
• Find updates on treatment improvements to your drinking water

How to read the report

As early as Wednesday, June 11, Portlanders will receive a flyer in the mail with an easy-to-scan QR code and web address that will take them to the full Portland Water Bureau 2025 Drinking Water Quality Report on the City of Portland website.

The report is accessible for people who use screen readers and is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Chinese. You can request a paper copy online or by phone at 503-823-9444. To request translations in additional languages or accommodations for people with disabilities, call 503-823-7525 (Relay: 711). Interpretation services available.

Public health is our top priority.

Portland’s drinking water is tested and safe, every step of the way. This starts with our two high-quality sources, which are the two largest drinking water sources in the state: the Bull Run Watershed and the Columbia South Shore Well Field. Water Bureau staff test water from many locations around our water system, including our water sources, our treatment facilities, and around town.

This report includes test results for all known health-related contaminants detected in 2024. If a known health-related contaminant is not listed in this report, it was not detected in our drinking water. We are proud to share that we tested for 29 types of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in 2024 and did not detect PFAS in our drinking water.

The report also makes it easy for you to get updates on our excellent water sources, wise water system investments, and your drinking water.

Questions? Email WaterLine@portlandoregon.gov">WBWaterLine@portlandoregon.gov.

Investing to maintain reliable service

We are investing in system resilience, in part by bringing a new Bull Run Treatment filtration facility online. We achieved an important project milestone and started construction of the new water filtration facility and pipelines last year. A project this size takes multiple years to build, and keeping our momentum through construction is critical to having these water system improvements in place by September 2027.

“We continue to replace aging pipes, pumps, and valves to keep delivering reliable, safe drinking water,” said Light. “We are also committed to evolving our operations to respond to climate change and reduce our carbon footprint.”

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost one million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 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. 

Portlanders are welcomed for a one-day first look at the newly restored Washington Park Reservoir from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 14. The new park space includes two reflecting pools, a wildlife habitat area, public walking paths, and restored historic features. This “sneak peek” event will feature activities for families, festivities, tours, and a community outreach fair.

While the full public opening is still to come, this event is a celebration of the amazing progress we’ve made and a chance to experience the future of this unique site. Work is still underway to complete certain elements of the reflecting pools, promenade, and surrounding areas. Because the site remains an active construction area, it is not yet ready for permanent public access.

The Water Bureau and our partners will alert the public when we set a date for the permanent opening of the park. Our top priority is ensuring that when we do open fully, the site meets the highest standards of safety, quality, accessibility, and sustainability.

We know how much Portlanders are looking forward to this event — and we have so much to celebrate! Portland Water Bureau, Hoffman Construction, Explore Washington Park, and our many event partners have prepared the site for this first-look celebration on Saturday, June 14.

“This weekend, we are celebrating a once-in-a-generation investment that will serve Portland for decades to come,” said Deputy City Administrator Priya Dhanapal. “We have transformed a vulnerable site into a resilient reservoir already delivering safe, reliable drinking water to more than 360,000 people on the west side—including schools, hospitals, and businesses. We are also completing a stunning public plaza with a promenade, reflecting pools, and restored historic features. I am thrilled our community gets this first look at what will become one of Portland’s most iconic public spaces."

View our media kit with time-lapse construction footage and recorded statements from DCA Dhanapal and Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light here.

Be one of the first to see this modern engineering marvel, but make sure to plan ahead!

Details on event and the best ways to get there are on the event web page.

Getting there could be challenging! Parking lots will fill by 10 a.m. and street parking near the site is extremely limited, so take TriMet instead. Washington Park is easy to get to via MAX or bus. The reservoir plaza is steps away from the Oregon Holocaust Memorial stop on the free Washington Park shuttle loop. Plan your trip with Explore Washington Park’s handy guide.
 

What’s so special about this reservoir?

The Water Bureau has replaced its original 1894 reservoirs with a new 12.4-million-gallon, seismically reinforced underground reservoir. While the opening of the reflecting pools and promenade is delayed by a few months, this earthquake-resilient reservoir is already supplying water to Portland’s west side and serves more than 360,000 people, including all downtown businesses and residents, 20 schools, five hospital complexes, and more than 60 parks.
 

As the City prepared to celebrate the long-anticipated opening of the Washington Park Reservoir site, construction and operational teams identified a number of remaining items that need attention before the site can be safely and permanently opened to the public. While disappointing, these discoveries are not uncommon during final project startup and testing for infrastructure of this size and complexity. The final to-do list includes construction-related pedestrian hazards, necessary safety signage, and non-operational elements like the hypochlorite system and reflecting pool pumps.

Following the June 14 celebration event, the site will close to the public while the City and its construction partners complete the remaining tasks for permanent public access.

We have not set a confirmed grand opening date. Our priority is to complete the work thoroughly and safely. 

We’ll continue to share information as it becomes available on our Washington Park Reservoir project web page and by email. Click here to sign up for news about Washington Park.

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, and the Portland Water Bureau, maintaining over $60 billion in assets, a $2 billion annual budget, and 2,500 employees. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau is part of the City of Portland’s Public Works Service Area and serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of 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. 

On June 3, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced Daniel Stuebgen (54-year-old) to 495 months (41.25 years) in prison for repeated sexual abuse of a 12-year-old child, who volunteered at Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides (Pacific City) and Happy Trails Feed & Tack (Lincoln City) in 2023, two businesses owned by Stuebgen and his ex-wife, Teresa Stuebgen.

Judge Bachart sentenced Stuebgen to a total of 495 months at the Department of Corrections for the convictions of 4 counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, 3 counts of Rape in the Second Degree, 2 counts of Sodomy in the Second Degree, and 4 counts of Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct, all ORS 137.700 Measure 11 offenses.

On May 1, 2025, after a five-day trial, Stuebgen was found guilty by a 12-person Lincoln County jury of nine separate incidents of child sexual abuse (five sexual assaults and four photographs of child sexual abuse material). This case began in August 2023 when the Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) received a tip from the Child Abuse Hotline, which raised concerns regarding a sexual relationship between Stuebgen and a child volunteer at Happy Trails Feed & Tack. On August 11, 2023, LCPD and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) responded and began investigating the allegations. While the investigation was pending, Stuebgen was advised by LCPD to not have any contact with the child, however, approximately a month later, the child was reported as a runaway and located at Happy Trails Feed & Tack, Stuebgen’s place of business and residence. Evidence demonstrated that Stuebgen was actively trying to conceal the child from police and had assisted the child in running away.

At sentencing, Judge Bachart stated, “There is no sentence that I am going to impose today that is going to be proportionate to the harm that your actions inflicted on the victim in this case…This was a vulnerable child, and you exploited those vulnerabilities for a sexual purpose. You were able to get away with it for a very long time. I don’t know how long this would have gone on if she hadn’t found the courage to report. Even when you knew the investigation was pending, you still continued to pursue her.” Stuebgen declined to make any statement at sentencing.

This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace and investigated by Detective Bud Lane, LCPD. The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detective Lane for his relentless commitment to investigating crimes against children to ensure justice, accountability, and community safety. Detective Lane brings decades of experience in sexual abuse investigations that was vital to a successful prosecution. The District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank the Lincoln City Police Department for prioritizing sexual abuse investigations to not only end abuse, but to protect vulnerable populations from predators in our community. 

PRESS RELEASE                            FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 11, 2025

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County jury today convicted 35-year-old Michael Anthony Mazzi of forcing his way into the home of a couple aged 76 and 85 years old. 

The jury convicted Mazzi of four counts of Burglary in the First Degree, Coercion, Menacing and Criminal Mischief

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Branden Meadows prosecuted the case for the state. After the conviction he said: “A home is where people deserve to feel the safest, and Mr. Mazzi violated that sanctity for the victims. The impact of this man’s crime is still being felt today by the victims. His actions earned him a significant prison sentence and the state will be requesting that.  Justice was served  with his conviction, and I hope the victims can finally begin to heal from this traumatic event.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Portland Police SERT team, and specifically Officer Andrew Feist, Officer Joshua Faris, and Officer Sara Gibbons for their thorough work on this case.

The DA’s Office would also like to highlight the work of MCDA Victim’s Advocate Allison Miller for the care and compassion they offered the victims in the case.

THE FACTS:

On March 13, 2023, the two victims were at their house on NW Skyline Blvd., Portland, when they observed a man taking their ladder.

Initially, they thought it was their gardener, but soon saw that it was the Defendant, Michael Mazzi. He began yelling at the couple to leave their house. Eventually, Mazzi

forced his way into their home, followed by his girlfriend and their dog. While inside, the male victim called 911, and Mazzi can be heard on the call screaming at them to “leave,” while also saying some nonsensical things, such as “I know who, I know

what, I know when.” Mazzi claimed the place was his house while he was inside. The female victim tried to grab her phone before she left, but Mazzi snatched it out of her hands. Mazzi then forced the couple out into the freezing rain. 

Police arrived but Mazzi refused to leave the home. Eventually SERT arrived and had to blow open the door to get inside and get Mazzi out.

In his defense, Mazzi testified that he accidentally took bath salts instead of methamphetamine.

The jury deliberated for 30 minutes and convicted him on all counts.

Sentencing will be held August 15, 2025.

Mazzi faces up to 10 years in prison.

June 11, 2025

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Judge Christopher Marshall today sentenced Darian McWoods to ten years of prison pursuant to a plea deal that resolved a child homicide investigation that started in December of 2013. 

Prosecution in this case first began in December 2016, when Mr. McWoods was indicted on charges related to the death of his daughter, Kamaya Flores, who was fifteen months old at the time. The charges included two counts of murder by abuse, three counts of manslaughter in the first degree, and one count each of criminally negligent homicide, criminal mistreatment in the first degree, and tampering with a witness. 

The child died on December 17, 2013, while in the care of her father, Mr. McWoods. An autopsy was performed by the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office, which determined that her death was caused by methadone toxicity. A trace amount of methamphetamine was also detected in the child's blood. The autopsy revealed physical findings as well, including unilateral broken ribs with a laceration of the liver, facial bruising, and facial petechial hemorrhages. 

Mr. McWoods was first tried in this case in 2018, where the state’s expert witnesses testified that his daughter’s’ physical injuries were consistent with inflicted child abuse and compression asphyxia. Mr. McWoods was convicted of all charges on June 5, 2018. The jury was unanimous in convicting Mr. McWoods on all of the homicide allegations and charges associated with Kamaya’s injuries. On July 13, 2022, the Court of Appeals reversed the convictions and remanded the entire case back to the Multnomah County Circuit Court for retrial. 

On May 28, 2025, Mr. McWoods pled guilty to one count each of Manslaughter in the First Degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree. As to the manslaughter charge, Mr. McWoods admitted that he recklessly, by neglect or maltreatment, caused the death of Flores, who was a child under the age of 14. As to the criminal mistreatment charge, Mr. McWoods admitted that he had assumed the care, custody and responsibility for Flores on December 17, 2013, and on that date intentionally and knowingly withheld necessary and adequate physical care and medical attention from Flores. 

The original prosecutors on the case were Multnomah County Chief Deputy District Attorney Amanda Nadell and former Senior Multnomah County DDA Amity Girt. Multnomah County Senior DDA Charles Mickley, alongside Ms. Nadell, has been on the case since it was remanded back for a new trial. DDA Jesse Hoffman also assisted with the prosecution following the remand. 

After the sentencing, Chief DDA Nadell said: “In her short life, Kamaya brought so much light and love to her family. Since her death, her family has remained steadfast in their commitment to ensuring justice was brought for Kamaya. I am grateful that Mr. McWoods took accountability for his role in Kamaya’s death, by pleading guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree. I hope that the finality of this resolution will provide closure to the victim’s family.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank current Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office investigator Nathan Tobey for his excellent work on this case. He was a Portland Police detective assigned to the Child Abuse Team when the crime was committed back in 2013. He also worked on the case as a DA investigator after it was remanded.

            ###MCDA###

PRESS RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Case: 21CR61063

June 10, 2025 

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Judge Jenna Plank sentenced Joshua William Degerness to 300 months prison (25 years) after a jury convicted him of Attempted First Degree Murder with a Firearm of three separate Portland Police Officers. He was also convicted of Attempted Assault in the First Degree of the officers, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Felony Attempt to Elude. 

The charges were related to an incident December 11, 2021 when Degerness fled from Portland police and eventually crashed into a tree after an officer used a Pursuit Intervention Technique on his vehicle. As officers ordered him to exit the vehicle he refused, pointed a gun in their direction firing at least two shots from inside the vehicle at the officers. Officers returned fire, hitting Degerness who survived.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Melissa Marrero prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing she said, “Today’s sentence is necessary to ensure the safety of the public and our law enforcement partners. The Defendant continues to show absolutely no remorse and would present a serious and immediate threat if released to the community. We are incredibly thankful that the involved Portland Police members were not injured during this encounter, but things could have turned out much differently. We are thankful for their dedication to public safety and bravery in the face of extreme danger.”

Portland Police Chief Bob Day said:

“Today’s sentencing brings closure to a dangerous incident in which an individual eluded police and then fired at PPB members, putting their lives and the community at risk,” said Chief Bob Day. “We’re grateful to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and our Detectives for their diligent work on this case to help ensure accountability and justice.”

District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said “This is a very dangerous individual and he is where he belongs for the next 25 years. This case highlights how officers put their lives on the line every day for this community and we thank them for that.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detectives Michael Jones and Travis Law for their exceptional work on this case.

THE FACTS:

December 11, 2021 a Portland Police Canine Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the area of SE 92nd Avenue and SE Holgate Boulevard, and the driver attempted to elude. Subsequently, the officer conducted Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) on the suspect vehicle, stopping the vehicle at SE 88th Avenue and SE Holgate Boulevard. A Sergeant responded to that location. Upon arrival, he observed the suspect vehicle had crashed into a tree at the southeast corner of the intersection. A plan was developed to arrest the suspect, later identified as Joshua Degerness. Degerness was uncooperative and refused to exit the vehicle and surrender. An officer moved his patrol vehicle closer to Degerness' vehicle. Two sergeants accompanied the officer on the driver's side of his vehicle, on foot. During the incident, Degerness said something to the officers to the effect of "come get me!"  Due to Degemess' non-compliance, a sergeant deployed pepper spray at the open driver's window. Immediately, Degemess pointed a handgun directly at the sergeant who then ducked for cover and heard gunshots. The two officers positioned behind the sergeant had fired their weapons.The Defendant still refused to obey commands to surrender. Degemess stated something to the effect that his gun was real and he asked if any of the officers were hit. Degerness was eventually taken into custody. 

                                             ###MCDA###

PRESS RELEASE                                                        FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 29, 2025

Portland, OR- May 29th, prolific robber Cory Jackson, 44-years old, pled guilty to six counts of Robbery in the First Degree with a Firearm.

The robberies included five different marijuana dispensaries and a bar in Multnomah County. 

Jackson faces a minimum of 20 years in prison on the Multnomah County cases. He also faces charges in Washington County and Clackamas County as well as at least one federal charge.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 9th, 2025. 

Jackson worked with an accomplice during the robberies, 45-year-old Melissa Ann Maxwell.

Ms. Maxwell pled guilty to several counts of Robbery in April of 2025 and is serving a 20-year prison sentence.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Chris Shull led the prosecution for the state and after the conviction said;  “No employee should go to work and face the barrel of a gun in a robbery. Cory Jackson and Melissa Maxwell, however, traumatized numerous hard working Portlanders by doing just that, over and over again. I’m glad they were both peaceably arrested and will be removed from this community, giving their many victims a sense of safety.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Detectives Rachel Baer and Michael Greenlee for their extensive investigative work on these matters, the Oregon State Police Crime Lab in Clackamas for assistance with last minute DNA testing, and the Vancouver Police Department for their efforts in assisting with the peaceful arrest of Cory Jackson. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank MCDA Victim Advocate Karla Juarez and Nang Dunn for their compassionate care to the victims of this case.

Here are the cases and counts that Jackson pled guilty to:

23CR37456

o Count 1: Robbery I w/ Firearm 

o Count 16: Robbery I w/ Firearm 

o Count 31: Robbery I w/ Firearm

o Count 46: Robbery I w/ Firearm 

23CR60391

o Count 1: Robbery I w/ Firearm 

23CR62755

o Count 1: Robbery I w/ Firearm 

24CR34239

o Count 2: Aggravated ID Theft 

Here is the Portland Police Bureau release from when Jackson was arrested on May 22, 2024.

A suspected serial armed robber is in custody and facing numerous charges following his arrest during a Stolen Vehicle Operation.

On the evening of Tuesday, May 21, 2024, officers with the Vancouver Police Department notified officers with the Portland Police Bureau of a wanted subject who was driving into Oregon. PPB officers, who were conducting a Stolen Vehicle Operation at the time, responded to assist. Officers located the wanted individual parking in a lot in the 2000 block of North Tomahawk Island Drive and walking into a business. Officers were able to evacuate the business and convince the man to exit. Officers took the man into custody without incident.

The suspect is identified as 43-year-old Cory J. Jackson. He was wanted in connection to numerous armed robberies and other crimes. He was lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on multiple warrants.

PPB’s Major Crimes Unit is investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attn Major Crimes.

Photo description: Officers taking wanted man into custody

###PPB###

Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau needs the public’s help locating a man involved in a series of armed robberies in the Portland area.

Detectives believe Cory J. Jackson, 43, is responsible for five armed robberies in the span of five months in 2023.

On April 25, 2023, Jackson used a gun to rob a dispensary in the 2500 block of Northwest Nicolai Street.

On June 19, 2023, Jackson used a gun to rob a dispensary in the 4500 block of Southeast Cesar Chavez Boulevard.

On June 28, 2023, Jackson used a gun to rob a dispensary in the 2000 block of Northeast Sandy Boulevard.

On July 21, 2023, Jackson used a gun to rob a dispensary in the 5200 block of Southeast 28th Avenue.

On September 6, 2023, Jackson used a gun to rob a dispensary in the 3200 block of Southeast Johnson Creek Boulevard.

In addition to the crimes in Portland, Jackson is a suspect in numerous felony crimes in Washington, Arizona, and Nevada.

Jackson is described as a Caucasian male, 5’10”, 170 lbs. He frequently uses wigs to alter his appearance in order to avoid law enforcement detection. Jackson has multiple tattoos. The one on his knuckles reads HOME SICK.

Surveillance video from Portland area robberies is available for viewing at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cex6VrO47pQ

Anyone with information on Jackson’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Rachel Baer at Rachel.Baer@police.portlandoregon.gov or (503) 823-0323.

###

June 9, 2025

Portland, OR- Today, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Christopher Ramras sentenced Wyatt Belcher to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years.

A Multnomah County jury convicted Belcher last week after deliberating for just an hour.

The jury found him guilty of Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm. The victim of these crimes is Ash Smith. 

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Devin Franklin prosecuted the case for the state. She was assisted by Deputy District Attorney Morgan Ashton. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detective Brad Clifton and the Portland Police Bureau for their excellent work on this case. 

MCDA would also like to thank MCDA Victim Advocate Lyssa Simmons for supporting Ms. Smith’s family for the duration of this case. MCDA would also like to acknowledge MCDA Investigator Anthony Merrill for his assistance leading up to and during the trial. 

THE FACTS:

May 8, 2022 around 11:43pm witnesses called 911 to report a woman had been shot. Witnesses later told police they had been at a drum circle attended by a large group of people. At the end of the event as people were packing up they heard a loud bang. One person thought it was a fireworks show but then saw the victim fall to the ground. The witness said a man walked away then returned and had a gun in his hand. The man was later identified by police as Belcher. The witness said the defendant racked the slide on the gun and asked if the woman was dead, then asked the witness if he wanted to be shot as well. The defendant then walked away and was arrested by Portland Police a short time later.

                                                                                                                                                                          ###MCDA###

 

PRESS RELEASE                                                      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 9, 2025                       

Portland, Oregon - Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Marshall today sentenced 27-year-old Courtney Carlile to 9 years in prison for her role in a burglary ring that targeted Portland restaurants, bars, lounges, and dispensaries.

Carlile was convicted of 13 counts of Burglary in the First Degree and 2 counts of Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle (auto theft), all felonies.  She will be required to pay restitution and will be on post prison supervision for 3 years following her release from prison.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia prosecuted the case for the state.

In court DDA Garcia said Carlile targeted at least 13 businesses.

“Ms. Carlile’s actions have had a significant impact on our community. As this court is well aware, property crime has greatly impacted Portland. It has caused a great number of businesses and people to leave Portland. Our streets are lined with vacant commercial spaces because business owners are not willing to risk opening.”

DDA Garcia said Carlile is 1 of roughly 10 people in the burglary ring that has burglarized and stolen from as many as 100 Portland businesses, the majority of which are small businesses.

Carlile has open criminal cases in Clackamas County and Washington County on similar charges.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Acting Detective Consider Vosu, Portland Police Bureau Officer Elliott Walker, and MCDA Investigator Gabriella Snedecor for their work.

MCDA would also like to thank Victim Advocates Emma Kane and Karla Juarez for their help on this case.

THE FACTS:

The cases began back in July of 2024. 

Portland Police Bureau Officer Elliott Walker played a key role in linking the cases together and identifying the suspects. Numerous other Portland police officers also helped out during the course of the investigation, which included multiple search warrants.

The probable cause affidavit states that on July 27, 2024 video surveillance for Baby Dolla Pizza at 2835 SE Stark Street shows, according to Officer Walker, Lucero arriving in a white Acura TL. Officer Walker reports Lucero is initially unmasked, and that he used a crowbar to force entry to the business and a Sawzall to gain access to an interior office. The officer said the business owner confirmed damage was more than $1,000 dollars.

On September 18, 2024, according to Officer Walker,  video showed Lucero and Carlile used bolt cutters to break into Grassa at NW 23rd Ave and a Sawzall saw to cut into an interior business safe. The burglary was caught on video and the two defendants were not wearing masks.

That same night, September 18, 2024, video from Old Town Brewing Co, located at 52nd and MLK, according to Officer Walker,  showed the two defendants in the same clothing. This time they smashed a window to get into the building. They once again used a Sawzall saw to gain access to an interior office and business safe.

The pattern repeated numerous times through November and December of 2024 until the pair were arrested by Portland Police on December 28th, 2024.  

                                                                                 ###MCDA###

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Honduran national unlawfully residing in Gresham, Oregon, was sentenced to federal prison Monday for his role in distributing fentanyl in the Portland area.

Borys Rafael Almendarez-Chapas, 45, was sentenced to 45 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on December 4, 2024, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, investigators conducted a controlled buy of fentanyl from Almandarez-Chapas in Portland. When Almandarez-Chapas arrived, investigators arrested him and seized fentanyl powder and counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. When questioned, Almandarez-Chapas told investigators that he planned to sell 500 counterfeit pills and two ounces of fentanyl powder during the transaction. Almandarez-Chapas also stated that he possessed multiple firearms at his residence and investigators later recovered three firearms from the residence.

On December 17, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Almendarez-Chapas with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and alien in possession of a firearm.

On January 30, 2025, Almendarez-Chapas pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF). It was prosecuted by Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF is a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force. The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland drug trafficker was sentenced to federal prison Friday for possessing fentanyl on multiple occasions.

Yesmin Miseal Medina Vargas, 20, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Oregon, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in February 2023, Medina Vargas was identified as a leader of a dispatcher-based drug trafficking organization in the Portland area. Medina Vargas was responsible for taking orders from customers and coordinating drug deliveries.

In February 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents executed a search warrant on Medina Vargas’ residence and seized more than 20 pounds of fentanyl, body armor, ammunition, and cellular phones.

Medina Vargas resumed drug trafficking and several months later, in August 2023, Medina Vargas arrived at a controlled buy in Tigard, Oregon, with a minor in his vehicle. Medina-Vargas and the minor were arrested, and agents seized approximately 2,000 fentanyl pills.

On September 12, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Medina Vargas with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On November 5, 2024, Medina Vargas pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. As part of his plea agreement, Medina Vargas admitted that he was part of a drug trafficking organization that caused an overdose death.

This case was investigated by HSI with assistance from the FBI, Westside Interagency Narcotics Team, and Lake Oswego Police Department. It was prosecuted by Cassady A. Adams, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man has been charged with distributing fentanyl and possessing a firearm following a fatal overdose investigation by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Daryl Antonio Edward Turner, 43, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on June 2, 2025, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a suspected fatal overdose near Wood Village, Oregon. Deputies seized a substance suspected to be fentanyl from the scene and quickly developed leads of the alleged fentanyl supply source, later identified as Turner.  

On June 5, 2025, investigators contacted Turner in Portland and seized a firearm, counterfeit pills suspected to contain fentanyl, and $922 in cash. When questioned by investigators, Turner admitted that he possessed fentanyl for further distribution, acknowledged the dangers of fentanyl, and was aware the substance could kill people.

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

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Multnomah County Dangerous Drug Team (DDT). It is being prosecuted by AUSA Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The Multnomah County DDT is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Parole and Probation, Gresham Police Department, the FBI, and U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS).

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

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

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

# # #

HILLSBORO, Ore- On June 13, 2025, Jack Patrick Hauser, age 47, pleaded guilty to trafficking in persons and failure to report as a sex offender. Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 24 months in prison. Deputy District Attorney Christina Luedtke prosecuted this case.
 

The victim in this case is a 26-year-old man with intellectual disabilities. After the death of the victim’s mother, the defendant saw an opportunity to take advantage of the victim’s circumstances. Over the course of several years, Mr. Hauser began exercising control over all aspects of the victim’s life. He required him to live in unsanitary and unsafe conditions in the backyard of the defendant’s residence in Vernonia. Beginning in 2023 until approximately August 2024, he took the victim to the Hillsboro Esplanade shopping center daily, where the victim was required to sell various small items to motorists, in all sorts of extreme weather conditions, utilizing a cardboard sign. The defendant would then demand and retain the majority of the proceeds.
 

Concerned community members attempted to intervene, but the defendant repeatedly thwarted those efforts. Law enforcement was eventually alerted and executed search warrants on the defendant’s home and car. He had the victim’s identification, debit card, and bank slips. Investigators also documented the unsanitary and inadequate space where the victim had been living. Hillsboro police determined the defendant had moved to his parents’ home in Hillsboro without notifying law enforcement, which was a violation of his sex offender registration requirements. The defendant had been convicted of third-degree statutory rape in 2002.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the Hillsboro Police Department for their extensive investigation in this case and the community members who intervened to protect this vulnerable victim. 
 

We are also dedicated to combating all types of human trafficking in our area. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1, your local law enforcement agency, or report it to the Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.
 

Mr. Hauser will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence. 

 Dr. Tim Cook to arrive at Chemeketa around July 21 as part of his ROCCS journey to all 17 Oregon community colleges, raising awareness and funds for students’ basic needs.

Salem, Ore., June 9, 2025 — On or about Sunday, July 21, depending on road and weather conditions, Chemeketa Community College will welcome Clackamas Community College President Dr. Tim Cook as he nears the final stretch of an extraordinary statewide journey. Dr. Cook, an avid marathon runner, is on a mission to spotlight the basic needs of Oregon’s community college students through the Running for Oregon Community College Students (ROCCS) campaign.

Over the course of 50 days, Dr. Cook is running to all 17 of Oregon’s community colleges—covering more than 1,500 miles and averaging an astounding 32 miles per day. His mission: to raise awareness and critical funds to support students facing food insecurity, housing instability, lack of transportation, and child care challenges.

To celebrate his arrival, Chemeketa students and employees will run the final mile alongside him, symbolizing a shared commitment to equity and student success.

“Chemeketa is proud to support Dr. Cook’s incredible effort to highlight the challenges faced by community college students,” said Marie Hulett, Chemeketa's Executive Director of Institutional Advancement. “His journey brings needed attention to the barriers many of our students experience and helps us secure vital support for their success.”

Funds raised through the ROCCS campaign will go directly to participating colleges to provide students with essential resources. Donations to support Chemeketa students can be made at:
https://www.givecampus.com/schools/ClackamasCommunityCollege/running-for-oregon-community-college-students-roccs/pages/chemeketa-community-college

According to The Hope Center, approximately 41% of Oregon community college students have experienced food insecurity in the past month, 52% have faced housing insecurity in the past year, and nearly 20% have experienced homelessness.

Oregon’s community colleges educate more than 200,000 students—over half of all students in the state’s higher education system. Many are first-generation college students, working adults, or parents striving to improve their lives through education.

Dr. Cook’s journey and daily updates can be followed on Instagram at @run4orccstudents.

####

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

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

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College is hosting NW Cyber Camp, a unique opportunity for high school students entering grades 9-12 to explore the exciting world of cybersecurity – for free. The week-long camp does not require any prerequisites – just a curiosity about computers and a desire to protect them.

Camp curriculum is designed for students of all skill levels. Instruction includes core concepts in cybersecurity fundamentals, as well as more advanced topics for students with prior experience.

What will they learn?

• Essential cybersecurity concepts: confidentiality, integrity and availability (C-I-A)
• How to defend against real-world attacks through team simulations and hands-on activities
• Network security, forensics analysis and password cracking
• Career paths in cybersecurity from industry professionals

NW Cyber Camp runs July 14-17, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at the Streeter Hall Annex on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. Lunch and snacks provided. Registration closes Friday, July 11, and requires a completed application, teacher letter of recommendation and completed waivers. For more information and registration details, visit https://nwcybercamp.org/.

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OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College President Dr. Tim Cook is lacing up his running shoes and setting out on a journey — running 1,500 miles across Oregon, connecting all 17 of the state’s community colleges. 

An avid marathoner, his goal is to run to each community college, averaging 32 miles per day. The campaign, Running for Oregon Community College Students (ROCCS) aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by students and advocate for increased state funding to support their basic needs.

At Clackamas Community College, 38% of students reported food insecurity in a survey this spring. They also shared challenges with affording child care and transportation. At the state level, a survey from The Hope Center reported:

• Food insecurity: Approximately 41% of students reported experiencing food insecurity.

• Housing insecurity: About 52% of students faced housing insecurity, which includes difficulties such as affording rent, utilities or the need to move frequently.

• Homelessness: Nearly 20% of students experienced homelessness, indicating a lack of stable and safe housing.

On Monday, June 16, Cook will start his run at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Ore. From there he will work his way across eastern and central Oregon, then south to Klamath Falls, up the Willamette Valley, over to the coast up to Astoria, down through the Portland metro area and finishing in Hood River where he plans to end his run with a jump in the Columbia River.

“Some have questioned why I’m doing this run and why I would subject myself to this, but our students deserve to be able to afford college and be able to pay for rent, child care, groceries and transportation,” Cook said. “If this run helps raise awareness and funding for basic needs, it will be worth every blister.”

Oregon's community colleges serve approximately 200,000 students, accounting for 52% of all public and private higher education enrollments in the state. The funds raised during the ROCCS campaign will be distributed to each community college, directly supporting students' essential needs. To donate or learn more about the run, visit run4orccstudents.org. 

ROCCS is supported by Rivermark Credit Union, Johnson RV, Daimler Truck North America, The Ford Family Foundation, Jim Laden and Rep. Rob Nosse, and the CCC Foundation.

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Tenure is awarded by the college’s board of trustees based on professional excellence and outstanding abilities in their disciplines. The granting of tenure is based on the recommendations of tenure review committees to the Vice President of Instruction, which are then forwarded to the President, who presents a final recommendation to the board of trustees. Recommendations are based on self-evaluations, tenure review committee evaluations, student evaluations, supervisory evaluations, and peer evaluations. The final decision to award or withhold tenure rests with the board of trustees.

Mohammad (Giga) Alqeeq, Cyber Security                                        

Giga has worked in the information security field for over 18 years, including software development and security. After taking time to travel, Giga came to the United States, where he earned his associate’s degree in information technology from Everett Community College. This led him to his work in malware analysis and security research while also teaching computer science at Everett. He also runs his own company, QeeqBox, which creates advanced tools and resources that help organizations improve their digital security.

As an instructor at Clark College, Giga helped build the Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Cybersecurity program and created workshops centered on online privacy and security. Despite his extensive experience in the field, he leaves his ego at the door, truly honoring and highlighting the contributions of all his students. Giga’s teaching philosophy is to use varying approaches so that students can choose what works best for them. 

Halina Brant-Zawadski, Nursing                                

Halina earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Lewis and Clark College, a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Portland, and a Ph.D. in Nursing Science from the University of Washington. After an extensive history working as a research assistant, registered nurse, and professor at medical centers, hospitals, and colleges across the region, she started in her current position at Clark College in 2022.

Bringing a wealth of knowledge to her theory and clinic work at Clark, Helina focuses on trauma responsive education, addressing stress management, equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed care with her students. Always going above and beyond, she is a calm, approachable resource for students.

Jay Fancher, Anthropology

Jay earned an associate’s degree from North Seattle Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Film from Humboldt State University in Arcata, California, and a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Washington State University. With 20 years of teaching experience across the Pacific Northwest, Jay is the true embodiment of an anthropologist.

Jay’s journey at Clark College began in 2014 as an adjunct professor. In 2019, he stepped in as the interim Chair of Anthropology with no guarantee of a permanent position, simply because he cares about this work. When he shares with students his fascination with things like mysterious fossils and lost civilizations, he teaches them practical life skills: curiosity, critical thinking, cultural relativism, and empathy. Jay’s teaching reflects the college’s mission for DEI; he invites students to step beyond their own worldview and biases and see those with different perspectives with respect.

Brandon Johnson, Automotive

Brandon earned an Associates of Occupational Studies and Associates of Applied Technologies from Universal Technical Institute, along with certifications as a 609 mobile air conditioning technician and Department of Ecology emissions specialist and completed factory technical training from three auto manufacturers. With experience working as a master technician for Subaru and Ford and a technician for General Motors, Brandon brings 23 years of field experience to Clark.

Although new to formal teaching, Brandon has a natural talent and heart for mentoring. By creating a safe environment for his students to ask questions, he shows the care and attentiveness he has to them. Recognizing that the struggle of problem-solving is crucial in the automotive field, he finds the right timing when offering guidance so that students are eager to learn. Brandon often shares stories about his experience in the field that emphasizes the concepts students are learning, creating impactful, real-world examples.

Molly Lampros, Communications                                              

Molly earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Psychology and a Double Master of Science in Communication Studies and Conflict Resolution from Portland State University. She also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in English and Pedagogy from Pacific University. Molly worked for the Rotary Club of Portland, the City of Beaverton, and the Oregon Restaurant Association before moving into education, beginning with Scappoose High School. Before joining Clark College 15 years ago, she was a professor at Portland State University and the Oregon Institute of Technology.

Molly is a masterful curriculum designer and focuses on building relationships with her students. After completing significant research on trauma-informed teaching practices, she implemented what she learned in her own classroom. She believes in an equitable, discussion-based, student-centered learning environment in which all opinions are considered.

Teresa Lashchuk, Nursing                         

Teresa earned an Associate of Arts in Nursing from Palomar College in San Marcos, California, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Master of Science in nursing, advanced population health, and education from Washington State University. She brings over thirty years of clinical experience to Clark, with additional focuses in surgical, oncology, and neuro.

Since joining the Clark faculty in 2011 as an adjunct nursing instructor, Teresa has made major contributions to the school and community. She encourages critical thinking skills through empowerment and promotes inclusion, which enables learners to feel supported and safe. Students appreciate her relevant curriculum, as she brings real-world situations to her courses.

Josephine (Josie) Lesage, Environmental Science                                              

Josie earned a Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology from the University of California in Santa Barbara and a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from the University of California in Santa Cruz. With field experience as an ecologist at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Josie brings a wealth of knowledge to her role at Clark College. She’s contributed to her department since her first day in the role, becoming a major player in helping Clark’s science program grow.

Josie creates excitement about the natural world for her students and believes that the best learning happens outdoors. As an organized, passionate, and kind instructor, her students walk away from her lessons with a deeper appreciation of the patterns that govern life on our planet. By using active learning, group work, and check-ins to help students develop learning strategies and develop a growth mindset, Josie truly fosters curiosity in her students.

Brian Miyake, Surveying and Geomatics                                    

Brian earned a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the University of Wyoming. He began teaching as an adjunct instructor at Clackamas Community College after years of experience in the surveying and mapping field, having risen through the ranks to become the Vice President of Operations for i-TEN Associates with a focus on land management mapping.

Brian has made significant contributions to his department, both in academics and in community presence. He creates strong connections with regional surveying professionals and is a dedicated advisor to his students. This year, he guided his students to the National Society of Professional Surveyors 24^th Annual Student Competition in Washington DC, where they won first place – an impressive testament to Brian’s leadership. With a commitment to meeting students where they are, he uses culturally responsive teaching methods to provide transformative education and takes the time to help students learn complex topics.

Victor Morales, Philosophy                                                                       

Victor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a Master of Arts in Philosophy and Political Science, and a Ph.D. in Political Science. Through over a decade as an instructor at Oxnard Community College, Ventura Community College, and the University of California in Riverside, he has built a reputation as a mentor who creates spaces for students to share their lived experiences. 

Victor continued that mission at Clark, where he created and mentors the Philosophy Club for students. As an instructor, Victor is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, accounting for diverse backgrounds and learning styles in his pedagogical strategies. By including role-playing exercises, group work, and simulations to promote critical thinking, he provides students a safe platform to share their opinions. 

Jesse Morse, English                                 

Jesse earned a Bachelor of Arts from Oberlin College, a Master of Fine Arts from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado, and a Ph.D. in English and Creative Writing from the University of Denver. He started his journey as a literature and writing instructor at Clark in 2018.

Every year with his wife and fellow instructor, Jennifer Denrow, Jesse co-directs Clark’s annual Spring Writing Workshop, bringing together and inspiring a community of writers. He is also the author of Flash Floods are Anomalies, a collection of poems published by Finishing Line Press in 2021. At the center of Jesse’s teaching are equity and cultural inclusiveness. Through a student-centered approach to instruction, he creates a classroom where students of all ethnicities, backgrounds, and abilities feel brave and vulnerable enough to engage deeply in learning.

Janine Rieck, Health Information Management

Janine earned an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology from Central Oregon Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management from the University of Cincinnati, and, while completing the tenure process at the same time, she also earned a Master of Science in Health Information management from the Southern New Hampshire University. With over a decade of experience in the medical field, including as a coder, auditor, instructor, and manager of regulatory review and training, Janine’s proactive work ethic made her the perfect fit for Clark when she began as an adjunct professor in 2018.

Janine’s philosophy of providing consistent support to her online classes creates an accessible and equitable environment. She builds her courses to provide an online learning experience that is equivalent to or surpasses the in-class experience, including intuitive videos, tips, tricks, and how-to instructions for students to ensure they always feel included and part of a community. Janine is highly driven and established a health information management club for students, encouraging them to give back to their community.

Natasja Swartz, Chemistry

Natasja earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California in Santa Barbara before completing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Portland State University, where she led research efforts for an academic-museum-industry collaboration that culminated in her dissertation on how protective coatings break down over time and the creation of an eco-friendly material that protects large bridges and sculptures. Natasja was an instructor at Reed College, Western Washington University, and Pacific University, and she was recognized by students with an outstanding teaching award as an adjunct professor at Portland State University.

Natasja’s curriculum celebrates the whole learner by removing impediments to success. She uses best practices from chemical education research blended into a cultural heritage framework to teach complex and interdisciplinary science. Known for her compassion and strong commitment to creating a supportive environment, Natasja pushes her students to think outside the box.

Cydney Topping, English

Cydney earned a Bachelor of Arts in English-Discourse Studies from Eastern Oregon University and a Master of Arts in Writing and Publishing from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. She has been an instructor at community colleges for her entire career while also stepping into roles such as advisor, tutor, and high school ambassador, helping her learn the multi-faceted ways in which the community supports students. Her journey at Clark began in 2015, where she now teaches all levels of compositions, American literature, and creative writing courses.

With the goal of helping students find the magic and joy of learning, Cydney designs her courses with intention, ensuring her students see their experiences reflected in the curriculum. An enthusiastic and creative team member, she also serves on the department committee tasked with redesigning Clark’s literature curriculum to reflect student-centered courses. She hopes to be a mentor for her students, cheering them forward on their educational journey. 

Gibran Zogbi, Accounting

Gibran holds a Bachelor of Science from Miami University, a Master of Business Administration from Cleveland State University, and a Doctor of Business Administration from George Fox University. With experience in accounting and finance for companies such as Safeco and Progressive, supporting two successful start-up companies, and teaching at George Fox University, Washington State University, and Warner Pacific University, Gibran is an asset to the accounting team at Clark.

As the ultimate team player, Gibran is always available to help students and colleagues, who appreciate his enthusiasm, responsiveness, and the energy he brings to the classroom. He is committed to promoting virtue in his teaching by encouraging students to be the best version of themselves. His teaching style often goes beyond accounting, forging character in the classroom as he emphasizes to students that the kind of person they become is more important than what they do or have.

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, 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 half of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.  

About Clark College Board of Trustees 

Appointed by the Governor of Washington, the Clark College Board of Trustees consists of five members who serve a five-year term and must live in the college’s service district. The Board seeks to ensure the quality and relevance of college programs and provide stewardship of public resources. In this role, the Board is responsible for strategic planning; development and approval of college policies; and approval and oversight of the operating budget. The Board of Trustees meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Learn more.

 

PORTLAND, Ore. – When your family cries tears of joy, you know it’s a big deal.

Portland Community College’s Diego Lobato has been named a 2025 Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholar, joining a cohort of 90 students nationwide recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, and perseverance. It's the fifth time in the past 20 years that a student from PCC has earned the honor.

The Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is one of the most competitive and generous in the nation, designed to support high-achieving community college students with financial need. Each recipient is awarded up to $55,000 annually to complete their bachelor's degree, with support covering tuition, living expenses, books, and required fees. Scholars also receive extensive educational and career advising, access to internships, and funding for graduate studies.

“Earning a Jack Kent Cooke scholarship means the world to me,” said Lobato. “It eases my financial worries tremendously and affirms that I am on the right path. I called my mom the moment I found out – she cried.”

Originally from Chula Vista, California, Lobato is a nontraditional student who was raised in a single-parent Hispanic household in San Diego. Now living in downtown Portland, he is completing his Oregon Transfer degree with a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) focus, centered on mathematics and computer science. 

Lobato will be attending New York University in the fall, where he plans to pursue a joint bachelor’s degree in Economics and Computer Science. His long-term goal is to build a technology business focused on creating large-scale positive social change.

“PCC has been instrumental in my journey, and I could not have done this alone,” Lobato said. “I’ve been fortunate to build an amazing support system that has propelled me toward my goals.”

He also expressed gratitude to faculty and mentors who played a key role in his success.

“PCC offers outstanding resources which I was able to use to build a strong transfer application — it’s an incredible institution,” he added. “PCC has forever changed the trajectory of my life and made my dream of higher education a reality.”

It is one of the largest groups of scholars in the Foundation’s 25-year history, with more than 1,600 applicants from community colleges across the country. The 90 scholars were selected from a semifinalist pool of 467 students based on academic excellence, leadership, persistence and unmet financial need.

“This year’s cohort reflects the remarkable talent and determination thriving in community colleges nationwide,” said Giuseppe ‘Seppy’ Basili, executive director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. “As we mark 25 years of impact, we remain committed to amplifying the successes of these students and opening doors to the opportunities they deserve.”

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has invested nearly $304 million in scholarships and $136 million in grants since 2000, dedicated to advancing the education of exceptional students with financial need. For more information, visit www.jkcf.org. 

PCC Commencement

Thousands of PCC grads like Lobato will be honored as part of the class of 2025. The college’s commencement ceremony takes place at 7 p.m., Friday, June 13 at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum where thousands of newly minted graduates will celebrate their degrees and certificates with family and friends.

Learn more: https://www.pcc.edu/commencement

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 53,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

The Centennial School District Governing Board will convene for a Regular Business Meeting and Budget Hearing on Wednesday June 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. 

The full board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page. The meeting agenda and associated documents may be updated as necessary.

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

If you are interested in joining the meeting, please click on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84627197937?pwd=Zkh1VVZqRS8vUG16K0lkNWdERVZUUT09
Passcode:292746

Or Telephone, dial:
+1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 846 2719 7937
Passcode: 292746

NOTE: An Executive Session will take place during the business meeting, on June 18th at approximately 7:30 p.m. The executive session will be held pursuant to (ORS 192.660(2)(i) - To review and evaluate the employment - related performance of the chief executive officer, of the public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request an open hearing.

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office.  Authorized parties may join the meeting virtually, by clicking the link below.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82242306021?pwd=BQDnVLFK2CRGg81EpkG5inlsoP2OEw.IDtRehfnOQiyUlHC
Passcode:407264

For information about the agenda email dan@csd28j.org">melissa_grindle@csd28j.org or oard@csd28j.org">board@csd28j.org.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 2:45 p.m. on June 12, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/87600752806?pwd=ejjdPCt7Ob6k5ydFiFRep2ATg5pZ5L.1
Passcode:642725

The Gervais School District #1 School Board, Gervais, Oregon, will convene in a Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office Conference via ZOOM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.  The agenda for the Regular Session meeting includes, but is not limited to, the following business:

Reports:

Action Items:

• Adopting the 2025-2026 Budget 
• Making Appropriation for the 2025-2026 Budget
• Imposing & Categorizing the Tax
• Appropriation Transfer for 2024-2025 Budget
• Regular Sessions Meetings Calendar for 2025-2026
• Certification of Elections-Marion County
• FCA Performance Review
• MIDCO Contract & MOU
• Approve Classified Bargaining Agreement 2025-2027

Discussion Items:     

• Bond Project Update
• Board Self-Evaluation Timeline
• Board Training in August

You are invited to a Zoom webinar!

When: Jun 18, 2025 06:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Topic:  Gervais School District #1 Board of Directors Budget and Regular Session

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81617884597?pwd=v89pJwEx3hLBFhgm4s0X4LMex6ayyF.1

Passcode:157495

Phone one-tap:

+17193594580,,81617884597#,,,,157495# US

+12532050468,,81617884597#,,,,157495# US

Join via audio:

+1 719 359 4580 US +1 253 205 0468 US +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 444 9171 US +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 360 209 5623 US +1 386 347 5053 US

+1 507 473 4847 US +1 564 217 2000 US +1 646 931 3860 US +1 689 278 1000 US +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 305 224 1968 US +1 309 205 3325 US +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Webinar ID: 816 1788 4597

 Passcode: 157495

 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kt2x6fGPv

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

For more information contact

Melinda Fitz-Henry, Food Service Director

503-792-3803 ext. 5050

Gervais School District Summer Grab & Go Meals

From June 16^th through August 21th

Monday and Thursday from 10:30-11:30 or 4:00 pm-5:00 pm

at Gervais High School parking lot

            Exception- June 19^th will be moved to June 20^th (Friday)

• No cost for students 18 & under.
• Only the child, parent, guardian, grandparent, or older siblings may pick up the meal.
• One meal package per day per child.

Test Press Release with Changes - PLEASE IGNORE

The Washougal School District is accepting applications to fill a position on the Washougal School Board of Directors. The successful applicant will serve Director District 5, succeeding Chuck Carpenter, who will resign from the board on June 30, 2025. 

Applicants must be a registered voter and reside within District 5. This appointment will be in place through the November 2025 election. 

School Board members are responsible for policy and governance of the Washougal School District and for providing direction to the superintendent.

The application deadline is July 24, 2025. For more information about the position, residency requirements, and application process, please contact Kori Kelly, (360) 954-3014 or i.kelly@washougalsd.org" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">kori.kelly@washougalsd.org. Interested applicants can apply online through the district website. Applicants who are not able to use an online application can request one from Kori Kelly. 

Director District 5 includes areas south of Blair road on both sides of the Washougal River and stretches to the east across Mt. Norway.  Citizens interested in applying can find a map of the board director zones on the district website at www.washougal.k12.wa.us.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 06/12/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS June 12, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/86346138790
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

(BEAVERTON, OR)- June 9, 2025. Media are invited to join us Tuesday at 9 a.m. to witness an inspiring display of innovation, empathy, and problem-solving as 7th-grade students at Valley Catholic Middle School (VCMS) participate in their STEM final exam. Students will be tasked with a significant hands-on project: building a working prototype of a prosthetic device out of recycled materials to help Ember, a 16-week-old labradoodle whose true story of paralysis has touched the community, regain her mobility.

Event Details:

• What: Valley Catholic Middle School STEM Design Final – Students design and build working prosthetic prototypes to help Ember, a real paralyzed dog.

• When: Tuesday, June 10, 9 -10 a.m.

• Where: Valley Catholic Middle School, 4420 SW St. Mary's Dr., Beaverton

• Media Accessibility: Excellent photo and video opportunities of students designing and testing their prototypes. Interviews will be available with teachers and students to discuss the project, and the design process. (Ember and her owners will not be able to attend but photo and interview options from the family are available.)

This engaging final exam moves beyond traditional testing, challenging students to apply their knowledge to a poignant real-world scenario. Ember, a playful labradoodle, fractured her spine in an accident, leaving her rear legs paralyzed. The exam requires students to follow the complete engineering design process, from defining the problem based on Ember's needs, and brainstorming solutions, to building, testing, and iterating their prototypes. Students will need to ensure their designs could pull a stuffed animal (representing Ember during testing) at least one meter without breaking and keeping the "dog" safely inside, with free-spinning wheels to allow for playful movement.

Valley Catholic Middle School is a fully accredited, STEM-certified institution and one of the only international STEM-certified schools in the Northwest. The school's commitment to STEM is integrated throughout its curriculum, empowering students to apply design-thinking principles across all subjects and to real-world challenges. This final project is a testament to that immersive approach, showcasing students' creativity, critical thinking, and engineering skills in service of a genuine need.

We encourage you to attend and capture this compelling story of young innovators at work, applying their skills to make a tangible difference.

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) are teaming up for a live fire demonstration to show how defensible space and home hardening can protect your home and property during a wildfire. The demonstration will compare fire behavior between two homes, one that is prepared for wildfire resilience and one that is not.

You'll see firsthand how simple steps can make a big difference, especially when it comes to stopping embers, which are the number one cause of homes catching on fire during wildfires. This live burn will highlight the importance of creating and maintaining a five-foot area free of things that can burn around a home.

Those interested in attending, please RSVP here.

What:

The Oregon State Fire Marshal and IBHS wildfire researchers will provide practical tips Oregonians can use to improve their home's chance of surviving a wildfire. These include creating a noncombustible zone in the first five feet, using fire-resistant building materials, and preparing the property to be ready for wildfire. During the demonstration, experts will narrate and show the progression, from embers landing to total loss of the building that isn’t prepared for wildfire. They will also explain why certain materials and landscaping choices, based on IBHS’s Wildfire Prepared Home program, make a difference.

Who:

• Oregon State Fire Marshal: Mariana Ruiz-Temple, state fire marshal
• Department of Consumer & Business Services: TK Keen, interim insurance commissioner
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Roy Wright, CEO
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Dr. Anne Cope, chief engineer
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Steve Hawks, senior director for wildfire

When:

Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where:

Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) 
4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, OR 97317

Details:

Closed-toe shoes are required. No weapons, including pocketknives, are allowed in DPSST’s training areas. No check-in is required when entering DPSST. Please proceed straight into the Hall of Heroes from the main lobby. The burn location is roughly 1/3 of a mile (10-minute walk) from the Hall of Heroes. There will be a van available for those who need it.

Those interested in attending, please RSVP here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 11, 2025

BEND, OR — From sawmill demonstrations to raptors in flight to desert dwellers and more, celebrate the end of the school year this weekend at the High Desert Museum. This Sunday, June 15, the Museum welcomes dads and those who serve as dads to visit the Museum for free on Father’s Day.

The summer fun extends beyond Sunday, though. On Saturday, June 14, visitors can experience the Lazinka Sawmill in action. This special event happens only three times a year and is not to be missed. Museum staff wear period dress as they bring the sawmill to life and chat with visitors about the mechanics and history of the timber industry in Oregon.

The authentic sawmill was used at the turn of the 20^th century to process wood with an enormous blade for slicing through thick Oregon timber. Originally powered by steam, the sawmill now runs on electricity. The machine itself inhabits an entire building at the High Desert Ranch. The ground rumbles, the saw buzzes and the sawdust dances through the air during this one-of-a-kind experience.

Free with admission, the demonstration begins at 12:00 pm and ends at 3:00 pm. Additional demonstration dates are July 29 and August 28. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/lazinka-sawmill.

In and around the High Desert Ranch, visitors can meet Museum staff and volunteers in period dress, as the ranch is now inhabited daily through the summer from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Learn about life in the High Desert in the 1800s and 1900s when Bend was little more than a few families scattered along the Deschutes River. Explore a cabin, barn, corral, bunkhouse, cellar and more. Visitors may even see a few chickens and turkeys roaming the ranch. Learn more about the High Desert Ranch at highdesertmuseum.org/1904-high-desert-ranch.

The Museum’s daily summer programming is in full swing, too. Visitors can meet Brook, Pitch and Wesley during the Otter Encounter or meet a porcupine or beaver during the Desert Dwellers talk. The popular Wolves in the West talk delves into the history, biology and ecology of this apex predator. All talk details can be found at highdesertmuseum.org/daily-schedule.

A highlight of the summer schedule is the popular Raptors of the Desert Sky program, which takes place daily at 11:30 am. Hawks, owls, turkey vultures and more soar from perch to perch directly over the crowd seated in a natural amphitheater in the Museum’s ponderosa pine forest. Visitors can watch these spectacular birds in flight while learning what we can do to help preserve them in the wild.

Raptors of the Desert Sky is made possible by Fly Redmond, Avion Water Company and KTVZ News Channel 21, with support from Bigfoot Beverages. Visitors are encouraged to visit the Museum when it opens at 9:00 am to secure tickets. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/raptors-of-the-desert-sky.

Learn more about visiting the Museum at highdesertmuseum.org.

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 TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

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Saving lives through blood donation is one thing all lawmakers can agree upon, especially as we head into the summer months. Join us for this friendly blood drive competition where everyone wins!

• When: Monday June 16, 2025, 8:30am to Noon.
• Where: Red Cross Bloodmobile on Salem Street near the South entrance to the State Capitol.
• Who: Drive sponsor Senator James Manning (D-Eugene), Secretary of State Tobias Read (available at 8:30am, donating at 9am), Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes, and Red Cross Board Chair Darrell Fuller.
• Why: The need for blood increases in the summer because of a rise in trauma injuries.  Blood drives like these help us support our local hospitals with lifesaving blood.

“We are thrilled to see our lawmakers in Salem stepping up to save lives. Even during this busy time at the capital, they recognize that blood donations drop in the summertime because of a reduction in school blood drives, an increase in summer vacations, and travel,” says Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes.  

Blood stats:

• Every 2 seconds someone in this country needs blood.
• Every 15 seconds someone needs platelets.
• Blood has a shelf life of 42 days.
• Platelets have a shelf life of only 5 days.
• Type-O blood (the universal blood type) is most needed, but ALL blood types are welcome and needed.
• Your single blood donation can help more than one person, and it takes only an hour to complete the process.
• One-in-seven trips to the hospital require a blood transfusion.
• One trauma patient can require up to 100 units of blood.

Sign up to donate by going to: RedCrossBlood.org (Sponsor Code: StateCapitol) or by calling 1-800-RedCross.

Those who come to give June 1-30, 2025, will get a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email and will be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Terms apply.

Download the Blood Donor App today to book your next appointment, track your lifetime donations, and follow your donation on its way to the hospital.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood and provides blood to 65 regional hospitals; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on social media at @RedCrossCascades.

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The Red Cross has opened a shelter at The Dalles Middle School 1100 East 12th Street, The Dalles, Oregon. If you are affected by the wildfires burning in The Gorge, please come to the shelter. Pets are allowed and volunteers are in place to help.

Livestock and horses are to go to the Wasco County Fairgrounds at 81849 Fairgrounds Rd, Tygh Valley, OR.

For updated information, call 1-800-RedCross or download the free Red Cross Emergency App.

Thanks,
Rebecca

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2025

Camas Lions Club Celebrates 2024–2025 Scholarship Winners at Natalia’s Café

Camas, WA – The Camas Lions Club proudly presented its 2024–2025 scholarships on Thursday, June 5, 2025, during a heartfelt gathering at Natalia’s Café. The awards ceremony, led by Scholarship Chairperson Lion Casey O'Dell, honored two exceptional local students for their academic achievement, commitment to service, and future leadership potential.

This year’s $2,000 scholarship recipients are Parker Castellani and Shalaka Deshpande, both of whom exemplify the Lions Club's core values of service, compassion, and community involvement.

Parker Castellani
Parker plans to attend Grand Canyon University in Arizona, where nine active Lions Clubs operate in the Phoenix area. He aims to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. His dedication to youth and community service includes:

• Volunteering with Miracle League Baseball to support children with disabilities

• Assisting the Clark County Sheriff’s Posse in holiday gift and food distributions

• Coaching youth through Community Ed Basketball

• Supporting hunger relief efforts with Feed America

• Volunteering at the Family Resource Center

Shalaka Deshpande
Shalaka will attend Oregon State University in Corvallis (home to an active Lions Club) to study Bioengineering, with aspirations to earn her BS, MS, and PhD. Her impressive record of service includes:

• Serving as a Clark County Youth Commissioner, addressing critical issues such as youth mental health, racial equity, and affordable housing

• Tutoring with Read-A-Story, a bilingual literacy nonprofit

• Performing music for memory care patients in assisted living facilities

Lion Casey O'Dell emphasized how each student’s service aligns with the Lions Clubs International Global Causes—specifically Youth, Hunger, and Humanitarian Efforts. In his remarks, he encouraged both recipients to continue their service by connecting with Lions Clubs in their college towns and beyond.

“You have expressed an interest in continuing your passion for serving,” Casey said. “Lions can support you in that effort, and I strongly encourage you to seek out a Lions Club wherever you land after college.”

He also highlighted the many ways Lions can help young leaders:

• Funding, promoting, and staffing student-led service projects

• Starting a Lions chapter at their college

• Launching a Leo Club in Camas schools and serving as an advisor

Each scholarship recipient was presented with a $2,000 check to support their educational journey.

“We are so proud of Parker and Shalaka,” said Club President Stephanie O’Dell. “They give us hope for a bright future, and we would love it if they came back someday to share their service journey with the Camas Lions.”

For more information about the Camas Lions Club and its scholarship program, visit www.camaslionsclub.org or email LionsOfCamas@gmail.com.

Media Contact:
Camas Lions Club
Email: LionsOfCamas@gmail.com
Website: https://www.camaslionsclub.org

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Nada Haidar Named Camas Lion of the Month for June 2025

New Member Shines with Immediate Impact in Service and Leadership

CAMAS, WA — The Camas Lions Club is proud to announce Nada Haidar as the Lion of the Month for June 2025, honoring her outstanding contributions to the club and local community just months after joining.

Nada was first introduced to the Camas Lions at a Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce mixer in February. Moved by a desire to give back, she attended the very next club meeting and became a member on the spot. Her enthusiasm and dedication have been nonstop ever since.

In March, Nada participated in a meet-and-greet with students from the Adult Transition Training Center (ATTC)—a special services program in the Camas School District that supports young adults (ages 18–21) with disabilities by teaching functional academics, vocational training, social-emotional development, and adaptive life skills. That same month, she also assisted at the club’s free community shredding event.

Her leadership took center stage in April, when she organized a Family Feud-style game night at the Lions District Convention—an instant hit among attendees. She also created a visually stunning charcuterie board for the hospitality suite that drew admiration (and hungry fans!) from across the district.

Nada has also made a powerful impact through youth vision care. At the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, she helped personally engage families and brought children in for vision screenings, resulting in multiple early referrals. In May, she led the Camas Lions’ participation in the Burton Elementary School Resource Fair, coordinating volunteers, creating marketing materials, and warmly welcoming families throughout the event.

“Nada is a shining example of the heart and purpose of Lions service,” said Stephanie O'Dell, President of the Camas Lions Club. “Her passion, energy, and compassion have made her an essential part of our club in record time.”

Each month, the Camas Lions Club recognizes a member who exemplifies its core values of service, leadership, and community engagement. We’re proud to honor Nada Haidar as our June Lion of the Month.

To learn more about the Camas Lions Club or to get involved, visit www.camaslionsclub.org or email LionsOfCamas@gmail.com.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The McLoughlin Heights Church of God will host their first day of connection, safety, and fun for the whole family on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 901 Winchell Ave, Vancouver, WA 98661.

This free public event brings together local organizations—including the American Red Cross, Clark County Historical Museum, and the Clark County Food Bank—to offer engaging activities, life-saving education, and family entertainment in a welcoming community space.

Visitors will have the opportunity to:

•           Learn critical emergency response techniques at the Red Cross CPR Training Booth

•           Explore local stories and heritage at the Clark County Historical Museum Booth

•           Sign up for free smoke alarm installations and fire safety education

•           Shop for hidden treasures at a White Elephant Sale

•           Enjoy raffles, games, and other fun activities for all ages

The day will conclude with a closing worship service at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary, open to all who wish to attend and celebrate the spirit of community.

This event is made possible through collaboration between McLoughlin Heights Church of God and local civic and nonprofit partners dedicated to community well-being, education, and safety.

We invite families and neighbors across Clark County to join us for a meaningful and memorable day!

Date: Wed, June 25th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_june_26_sleep/

Sleep is an opportunity for our brains to practice, and process — especially critical early in life, when we are experiencing so many new things in the world around us. The brain controls how we connect with each other, and form relationships with our peers and loved ones. Healthy physical connections with others, including a foundation called “social touch”, is formed early in life and requires proper sleep to fully develop.

Studies have found an association between poor sleep early in life and neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by differences in social connection. This talk will expand on this lingering mystery by exploring:

• How does the function of sleep change with age?
• How a unique rodent – the prairie vole – can teach us how sleep and snuggles help our brains develop the foundation of social touch.

Noah Milman is a graduate student in the Department of Behavioral Neuroscience at OHSU. Previously, he contributed to the first-in-human clinical trial of 40Hz sensory stimulation for Alzheimer’s Disease. Now, he is interested in how early-life sleep and environment impact the sensory brain and our social connections later in life.

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.

Due to the high temperatures in our area, for the health and well-being of our staff, Oaks Amusement Park will close at 4 PM today, June 8, 2025.  At close, visitors may receive a bounce-back bracelet to return another day to finish their visit.

The Roller Rink operations will proceed as regularly scheduled.

This original exhibition on one Oregon family examines questions of citizenship and belonging in America.

PRESS TOUR: Please join us for an exhibition tour with Barbara Yasui and Maija Yasui on Thursday, June 12, at 9am. Please RSVP to achel.randles@ohs.org">rachel.randles@ohs.org if you plan to attend.

PRESS KIT: Download press images at bit.ly/yasuipress.

Portland, OR — Opening Friday, June 13 at the Oregon Historical Society, the original exhibition The Yasui Family: An American Story examines relevant questions about citizenship, immigration, and belonging through the lens of one Oregon family.

“The history of the Yasui family is both unique and similar to the experiences of other immigrants to the United States, and it truly reflects the complexity of the American story. All of us at OHS are very grateful that the Yasui family has entrusted us with their compelling collection of family history, thereby allowing us to share an incredibly timely story of the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship,” said OHS Boyle Family Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk.

Members of the Yasui family were among the millions of immigrants who came to the United States seeking new opportunities during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The exhibition follows in particular the story of Masuo Yasui, who immigrated to the U.S. in 1903 at the age of 16. He joined his brothers and his father working for the Oregon Short Line, where he stayed for two years before moving to Portland. While many Issei (first-generation Japanese immigrants) saved money so they could create a better life if they returned to Japan, Masuo saw few prospects in returning and instead chose to pursue his own ambitions in America.

In 1908, Masuo moved to Hood River, a city which had an established community of Japanese immigrants who came to the valley to work in agriculture and logging. Along with his brother Renichi Fujimoto, Masuo opened the Yasui Bros. Co. store, which carried a mixture of Japanese and western goods — examples of which are on display in the exhibition inside an immersive storefront. While they were not the first store in Hood River to carry Japanese goods, they were the most successful.

Racism and oppression were common, yet Nikkei (Japanese immigrants and their descendants) like the Yasui family persisted in establishing roots in Oregon, starting families and businesses, and shaping the social and economic fabric of the communities where they lived.

However, life for people of Japanese descent drastically changed when the Empire of Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, flaming existing anti-Japanese propaganda and inciting further violence and exclusion. 

The day after the Pearl Harbor attack, the U.S. Treasury Department shut down the Yasui Bros. Co. store. Renichi was briefly allowed to reopen the store for a month-long liquidation sale before it was closed completely on April 18, 1942, after 34 years in operation; it never reopened.

Under the authority of the Alien Enemies Act, Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Army agents detained pre-selected “enemy aliens,” mainly Issei community leaders such as Masuo Yasui. Although not officially charged with a crime, Masuo was arrested five days after the Pearl Harbor attack.

Several weeks later, on February 19, 1942, President Franklin Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which authorized the U.S. government to forcibly remove over 110,000 Nikkei — including U.S. citizens — from their homes and send them to concentration camps, often in remote areas. Life in the camps was physically, mentally, and emotionally harsh, and Nikkei remained there for the majority of World War II. After the war, many members of the Yasui family returned to Oregon, although some incarcerees chose not to return home due to persistent racism in their communities.

In the decades after incarceration, Japanese Americans fought for restoration of their civil rights, monetary compensation, and most importantly, an apology from the U.S. government. Thanks to the tireless work of activists, including members of the Yasui family like Masuo’s son, Minoru Yasui, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 was passed. It included a formal apology and $20,000 in monetary compensation to every surviving U.S. citizen or legal resident of Japanese ancestry incarcerated during World War II — though by then, many former incarcerees had already died. For his attempts to challenge the constitutionality of wartime curfew, Minoru was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015, the only Oregonian to receive the award.

Like many families, generations of the Yasui family have preserved their traditions, history, and ongoing legacy. It is through their photographs and personal correspondence, business records, and belongings — many now in the care of the Oregon Historical Society — as well as firsthand accounts that historians have insights into the lives of Japanese immigrants and their families in Oregon during the twentieth century.

“Most Americans have immigration as part of their family history, and I hope that visitors can see parallels from their own experiences and those of their families in the Yasui story. The Yasui family’s commitment to activism and bettering their community is not only a source of inspiration but is a call to action to fight for justice and equality,” said OHS Curator of Exhibitions Megan Lallier-Barron.

The Yasui Family: An American Story is on view at the Oregon Historical Society from June 13, 2025, through September 6, 2026.

The Oregon Historical Society’s museum is open daily in downtown Portland, from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 12pm to 5pm on Sunday. Admission is free every day for youth 17 and under, OHS members, and residents of Multnomah County.

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About the Oregon Historical Society

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

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement in response to Providence's announcement that it is laying off 600 workers systemwide. 

"Providence’s announcement of layoffs, including clinic staff in Seaside, OR, continues the harmful disinvestment in rural healthcare in Oregon. Providence’s misguided reduction in nursing staff once again proves its priorities need to be reexamined. Layoffs lead to reduced quality of care, short staffing, unsafe patient loads, and a deterioration of care. At a time of unprecedented attacks on our healthcare system from the federal government—especially for rural Oregonians—Providence should be working to help solve the problem, not inflaming it.

Making matters worse is Providence’s public statement which blames the layoffs, in part, on Oregon’s historic safe staffing law.

Let’s be clear: Providence was part of the coalition that passed hospital nurse safe staffing legislation in Oregon in 2023. The law mandates safer nurse-to-patient ratios to address a crisis that led to nurse burnout, unsafe patient loads, and preventable harm across Oregon. Providence blaming a law which does not apply to clinics as the reason for its layoffs is not only nonsensical and disingenuous; it is dangerous.

Providence is a $30 billion corporation which pays its top executives 7 and 8 figure salaries and has ample resources to meet safe staffing standards. Their decision to reduce frontline caregivers in rural Oregon while protecting executive salaries and profits is a deliberate choice, not a financial necessity. Providence patients and our rural communities deserve better. Our caregivers deserve better. 

ONA calls on Providence to reverse these harmful layoffs, fully comply with safe staffing standards, and engage in good-faith dialogue with their workers to build a healthcare system that puts care—not cost-cutting or profits—at its center."

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The new hire will offer guidance and support to local media covering the fair 

[Salem, OR]  – The Oregon State Fair is pleased to announce the appointment of Alex Hasenstab as spokesperson and media contact for the event. Hasenstab brings six years of experience in broadcast journalism and two years in government communications to the team.

Hasenstab will be the fair's on-air personality, representing the fair during local radio and television spots. She will also act as liaison between the fair and local media; organizing interviews, setting up live shots and assisting reporters with finding stories and navigating the fair. 

"I'm excited to represent the Oregon State Fair during its 160th year and share details about the amazing entertainment, food and community it offers," Hasenstab said. 

Fair links:

Newsletter: (latest news and contests)  https://oregonstatefair.org/newsletter

Tickets: (Fair/Carnival/Concerts/Fast Pass/Parking) oregonstatefair.org/tickets

About the Oregon State Fair:

The Oregon State Fair is a public/private entity owned by the people of Oregon. The Fair began in 1861 in Oregon City. In 1862, the Fair moved to the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem, the State Capitol. The Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center hosts thousands of visitors from all over the world each year, with premier concerts, art, culture, rides, agricultural exhibits, and livestock exhibits. Throughout the year, the Fair and Expo Center works with multiple agencies to help facilitate emergency and disaster response needs. For more information, visit oregonstatefair.org or contact us at info@oregonstatefair.org.