Update 5/1/2025 2:00pm

The Clark County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the death and the circumstances regarding this incident. In the initial release, it was believed that deputies responded to a residential burglary. The caller had discovered Gardiner in the residence and got into a physical altercation with him before he fled. There is no indication that there was a residential burglary. The Sheriff's Office has split the incident into two investigations, the death investigation and a criminal investigation.

Evidence from the death investigation involving Gardiner is consistent with a suicide. 

The Sheriff's Office has opened a criminal investigation into several sex offenses believed to have been committed by Gardiner against a juvenile victim. 

Due to the sensitive nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time.

Update 4/25/2025 9:15am

The Clark County Sheriff's Office can confirm that the deceased person in this incident is Charles Gardiner, the Interim Chief of the Cowlitz Tribal Public Safety Department.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this case, including the circumstances of why Gardiner was in the residence.

Due to the nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time. 

Additional updates will be released when more information is available.

On April 23^rd, at around 9:43 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a report of an occupied residential burglary in the 9000 block of NE 79^th Street in Northeast Vancouver. The caller reported a male subject inside the residence. The male subject fled the residence on foot.

As deputies and other law enforcement officers searched the area, they located a vehicle with a deceased person inside matching the subject’s description. Evidence suggests the individual died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating the incident.

5/02/2025  2:05 pm

Media Contact:

Lt. Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6556 / cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

Domestic Violence Incident Leads to Arrest in Corvallis

At approximately 11:33 a.m. on May 2, 2025, Corvallis Police officers responded to a report of a domestic violence incident at 755 NW 3rd St. A woman had contacted 911 to report that she had been assaulted by her ex-husband, who had also attempted to kill her. The woman was able to escape the apartment and call for help.

Officers arrived on scene and immediately transported the victim to a waiting ambulance for medical evaluation. She was then transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

The suspect, 45-year-old Jason Leonard Corona of Corvallis, was reported to be armed with knives and had barricaded himself inside the apartment. Officers made contact with him and spent over an hour negotiating his surrender. At approximately 12:48 p.m., Corona exited the apartment and was taken into custody without further incident.

Jason Leonard Corona has been lodged at the Benton County Jail and faces the following charges:

• ORS 163.160 Assault IV (Domestic Violence)
• ORS 163.187  Strangulation (Domestic Violence)
• ORS 133.310 Violation of a Restraining Order
• Three Outstanding Arrest Warrants

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Corvallis Police Department.

At 1:56pm, on Saturday April 26th, Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported brush fire on NW Agaard Road in rural Washington County. Crews arrived 17 minutes later to find fire burning in a clear cut and spreading up hill. Firefighters deployed hose lines around both sides of the fire. It took firefighters 20 minutes to stop the forward progress of the fire and have the perimeter of the fire covered by hose lines. It took firefighters another hour and a half of moping up hotspots and digging containment line around the fire perimeter. In total, the fire burned approximately 1/2 of an acre. This land was logged about a year ago and replanted with new trees over the winter. 

The fire came within 50 feet of a nearby house, but thankfully burned away from it. Through investigation, it was found the property owner was burning cardboard and spread to nearby vegetation on logging property owned by Stimson Lumber. With varying winds, the fire spread quickly up the hillside. 
 

This area is dual covered by Forest Grove Fire & Rescue and Oregon Department of Forestry. Because the fire started on one property and spread onto another, Forestry Officials fined the property owner.

We want to remind everyone, that if burning is allowed in your jurisdiction, follow local rules on what is and isn't allowed to be burn. If you're allowed to burn, never leave a burn pile unattended and have a shovel and water hose ready to be used. Also burn in an area away from vegetation that could catch fire.

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Banks Fire District, Cornelius Fire Department, Oregon Department of Forestry, Gaston Fire District, Washington County Sheriffs Office and Oregon State Police.

 
Scene Information:

Brush Units: 6
Engines: 2
Water Tenders: 2
Chiefs: 2
 

Total Firefighters: 30

# # #

On April 20, 2025, detectives with the Gladstone Police Department were notified by a local trauma center of a severely injured six-week-old infant that was admitted at their facility, tragically, the infant later passed. The infants injuries were determined to have occurred within the city limits of Gladstone and believed to be homicidal violence. 

During the course of the investigation, 19-year-old Maliki Skutley, the father of the infant, was arrested and initially charged with Assault in the First Degree on April 20^th, 2025. The infant passed away on April 23^rd , 2025, as a result of the injuries sustained. 

On April 25, 2025 Mr. Skutley was indicted on two counts of Murder in the 2^nd degree and one count of Assault in the 1^st degree. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Mr. Skutley is currently lodged at the Clackamas County Jail.

The Gladstone Police Department is working in coordination with the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. No further details will be released at this time to preserve the integrity of the investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Gladstone Police Department at 503-557-2797.

Gresham, Ore.— The teenager killed in a Sunday morning shooting has been identified as 13-year-old William “Liam” Spahnle-Bailey.  Liam was sleeping in his father’s apartment when a shooting occurred in a neighboring unit.  Liam was stuck by gunfire that traveled through the wall between the two apartments.  Officers and paramedics rendered medical aid and he was transported to a local hospital.  Tragically, Liam was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival at the hospital. 

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at iderich@GreshamOregon.gov">Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Martin Daly at

tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov.

Gresham, Ore.— Detectives are continuing to investigate the Sunday-morning shooting death of a local teen.  The shooting took place in an apartment in the 4700 block of SW 11^th St in southwest Gresham.  Multiple shots went through walls into a neighboring apartment, fatally wounding a sleeping 13-year-old.  Another person who was struck by gunfire was transported to a local hospital. 

“Today our entire community is mourning the killing of an innocent child.  Our thoughts are with his family, friends, classmates, and neighbors,” said Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg.  “This shooting is a tragic reminder of how the impact of gun violence reaches far beyond the shooters and their intended victims.  Our officers, detectives, and law enforcement partners will hold accountable everyone responsible for this child’s death.  The City of Gresham, the Ceasefire program, and our community partners will continue working to break the cycle of violence.” 

Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said, “This an example of horrific violence in our community. It breaks my heart to see the loss of such a young life. Any time a child is lost in our community it's devastating. But when it occurs in such a senseless, violent manner it's absolutely infuriating.  We’ll do everything we can to get to the bottom of this and hold those who are responsible accountable for their actions.”

The East County Major Crimes Team is leading the investigation.  The Major Crimes Team is an interagency team of detectives from the Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Oregon State Police, and attorneys from the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.  Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at iderich@GreshamOregon.gov">Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov.

The City of Gresham participates in the Ceasefire partnership.  This program unites community-based organizations, city leadership, law enforcement, and public health experts to implement violence prevention strategies.  Ceasefire is rooted in a public health framework and seeks to address the root causes of violence by providing necessary resources including employment opportunities, conflict resolution, and behavioral health support.

--- UPDATE ---

Gresham, Ore.— Shortly after 1:30 a.m. on April 27, Gresham Police responded to a report of a shooting in the 4700 block of SW 11^th St.  Officers learned a shooting had taken place inside an apartment.  Multiple rounds went through walls into a neighboring apartment. 

A teenager sleeping in the neighboring apartment was struck by gunfire.  Officers rendered immediate aid, and medical responders transported the 13-year-old victim to a local hospital; however, he did not survive.  The name of the victim is not being released at the request of family.

Officers located another person who had been struck by gunfire a short distance from the shooting scene.  That person was transported to a local hospital for treatment of serious, but not life-threatening injuries. 

The East County Major Crimes Team is investigating the shooting.  Anyone with information regarding the shooting is asked to contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at Lindsay.Friderich@ GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov. 

--- ORIGINAL RELEASE ---

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police responded to multiple reports of shots being fired in the 4700 block of SW 11^th St shortly after 1:30 Sunday morning.  Officers found two people at the scene who had suffered gunshot wounds.  They were both transported to local hospitals for treatment.  One person was pronounced deceased at the hospital.  The other remains hospitalized with injuries that are not believed to be life threatening. 

The East County Major Crimes Team is investigating the shooting.  Anyone with information can contact Detective Lindsay Friderich at iderich@GreshamOregon.gov">Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov. 

Over the weekend of April 19, 2025, the David Hill bell and placard on display at the Hillsboro School District Oak Street Campus (440 SE Oak St) was stolen. The bell is the original bell from the David Hill School.

Anyone with information is asked to call 503-629-0111 regarding case number 25-7891.

On April 30, 2025, 25-year-old transient, Luis Angel Escobedo-Castaneda, was arrested behind Dutch Brothers Coffee house (4915 River Rd. N.) after a caller reported his suspicious behavior.  Mr. Escobedo-Castaneda was found to be in possession, on his person, a firearm and, was in possession of four additional firearms that were taken in a burglary from a residence on Churchdale Ave N that morning.

In addition to the firearms, Mr. Escobedo-Castaneda was found to possess psychedelic mushrooms and appeared to be under the influence of the substance when arrested.

Mr. Escobedo-Castaneda was taken to the Marion County Correctional Facility where he was released to intake staff on charges of:

• One count of Burglary in the First Degree
• Four counts of Theft in the First Degree
• One count of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
• One count of Possession of a Controlled Substance

 Lebanon Fire District crews responded Saturday  to a structure fire  in the 41000 block of Conser Hill Rd that was ignited by an unattended burn pile. The fire quickly spread, burning approximately one acre of surrounding grass and brush before firefighters were able to bring it under control.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find the blaze threatening nearby structures and vegetation. Crews acted swiftly to contain the fire, preventing it from causing further damage. No injuries were reported.

Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents that burn piles should never be left unattended, and that fire safety guidelines must be followed, especially during dry conditions.

The cause of the fire has been confirmed as an improperly monitored burn pile. Lebanon Fire urges the community to remain vigilant to prevent future incidents

PET LICENSING   
 

Pet ownership comes with many responsibilities to keep you, your pet, and your community safe. Lincoln County requires all dogs hold a valid license pursuant to ORS 609.100. Cat licenses are optional but are encouraged because they can help reunite you with your cat if they are lost. 

In addition to being required by law, licensing your dog can save their life and speed up the process of returning them to you. One of Lincoln County Animal Shelter’s goals is to be able to reunite all lost pets with their families. In 2024, our animal shelter helped 171 lost pets reunite with their families. Having a licensed pet can help speed up the process of being reunited when your pet is lost.

If happy reunions are not enough motivation, failure to obtain a dog license can result in a $265 fine. All dogs in the county are required to be licensed within thirty days of residence. This is a requirement regardless of where you live in Lincoln County and whether your dog leaves your property or not. While cat licenses are not required, they help can reunite families with their feline friends.

You may easily purchase or renew a license by mail, over the phone, at the Animal Shelter, or online. Applications and additional information are available online at: www.co.lincoln.or.us/695/Pet-Licensing.

Why licensing is important:

• License tags allow us to contact you as soon as possible. This provides peace of mind, leaves space at the shelter for other animals in need, and saves tax-payer money.

• License fees support shelter programs and operations which provide over 1,000 animals with food, veterinary care, shelter, training, behavior enrichment, and adoption services each year.

• License fees support field services and investigations which address loose pets, aggressive dogs, and bite reports.

• License fees allow Animal Services to investigate, seize, and care for animals who are victims of cruelty and neglect.

• License fees support our pet retention programs which help people keep their pets.

• If your animal is found injured and wearing its license, it is much easier for us to obtain emergency medical attention for them and to contact you with the details.

• Identification is critically important for your pet in the event of a disaster.

• If your dog is impounded, current on their license, and spayed or neutered, the first $30 impound fee is waived.

• License fees are an important way the community supports our policy of not euthanizing for time or space. These fees also support finding new homes for as many animals as possible.

Please keep your pets safe with a license, ID tag, and microchip. Remember to search for your lost pet at the Lincoln County Animal Shelter at 510 NE Harney St. in Newport and by calling 541-265-0720. You can help reunite lost pets by following the Animal Shelter’s Facebook page at LincolnCountyLostandFoundPets.
 

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

###

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on April 29, 2025, deputies arrested a 17-year-old juvenile, from Scio, on charges related to threats of a school shooting.  The incident was reported to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office on April 28, 2029, at 5:23 p.m., after the principal of Scio High School received an email from a teacher reporting the incident.  Staff from the Scio High School, deputies from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and family of the 17-year-old juvenile worked together to ensure nobody was in immediate danger due to the threat.  It was determined there were firearms at the juvenile’s residence, but they had been locked in a safe that the juvenile did not have access to and were eventually removed entirely from the residence.  The juvenile admitted to making statements about shooting people at school, but stated they were not serious about the statements.  The juvenile was arrested and taken to the Linn Benton Juvenile Detection Center for charges of Disorderly Conduct in the First Degree.      

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

On May 1, 2025, at approximately 8:00 a.m., an adult in custody was discovered unresponsive in their bunk at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail. Life-saving measures were administered by corrections deputies and corrections health personnel. Paramedics subsequently arrived and continued advanced medical intervention. Despite these efforts, the adult in custody was pronounced deceased by the responding paramedics.

In accordance with standard protocol, the East County Major Crimes Team was activated to initiate a death investigation. The death investigation is being completed in conjunction with the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death.

The deceased adult in custody has been identified as 49-year-old Sharon Lee Watkins. She was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on April 28, 2025.

No further comment will made at this time.

The East County Major Crimes Team includes detectives from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Detective Unit, Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department and Oregon State Police.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Transit Police Unit teamed up with several key partners on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, to conduct a public safety mission focused on the TriMet system in Northeast Portland. The collaborative effort aimed to address criminal activity and boost safety for riders and operators on MAX trains and buses and at transit stations.

The MCSO Transit Police Unit deputies worked alongside officers from the Port of Portland Police Department and the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice Adult Services Division, as well as TriMet security personnel. This unified approach allowed for a concentrated effort to address issues along the transit lines, creating a more visible and effective public safety presence across the transit system, from the platforms and trains to the connecting bus routes.

To ensure deputies and officers could remain focused on their field duties, MCSO Corrections Division personnel played a vital role by establishing a temporary booking facility. This strategic move streamlined the booking process, maximizing the time deputies and officers could spend actively patrolling and addressing public safety concerns on the transit lines during the mission.

The mission yielded significant results, demonstrating the impact of this collaborative strategy:

• 40+ warnings were issued for various violations.
• 22 arrests were made.
• 18 felony warrants were cleared.
• 7 misdemeanor warrants were cleared.
• 5 individuals were issued exclusions from the TriMet system.

During the mission, many TriMet riders, community members and business owners offered positive feedback and appreciation.

"This mission's success was a testament to the relentless efforts of front-line deputies and officers collaborating closely with our agency partners," said MCSO Captain Matt Jordan. "I value and appreciate the resources provided by each of these agencies and anticipate future collaborative missions aimed at enhancing the safety of our transit system.”

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Transit Police Unit remains committed to working with its partners to ensure a safe and secure transit environment for everyone in the community.

Correction: County in headline has been corrected to Clatsop County.

Clatsop County, Ore. 30 April 2025- On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 6:24 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 16, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound red Ford F-350, operated by Michael L Skillin (56) of Vernonia, attempted to pass multiple commercial motor vehicles when it struck an eastbound white Ford F-350, operated by Bryce Alan Kilponen (50) of Naselle (WA), head-on.  The red Ford-F350 then struck the trailer of a westbound Kenworth commercial motor vehicle, operated by Kenneth Michael Steel (55) of Salem. 

The operator of the red Ford F-350 (Skillin) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger, a female juvenile (9), suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the white Ford F-350 (Kilponen) suffered reported minor injuries and was tranported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Kenworth (Steel) was reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed and unsafe passing are considered the primary factors in the cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Cannon Beach Fire Department, Hamlet Fire Department, Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Clackamas County, Ore. 28 April 2025- On Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 6:20 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 282, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound BMW 530i, operated by Alena Yesenia Gudino (28) of Woodburn, began to take the exit when it left the roadway, drove through the grassy shoulder, and struck several trees.

The operator of the BMW (Gudino) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Aurora Fire Department.

# # #

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.

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. 27 April 2025 – On Saturday, April 26, 2025, at about 2:29 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 30 in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Volkswagen Jetta, operated by Daren James McLeod (48) of Clatskanie, was traveling eastbound on Hwy. 30 near milepost 62 when it crossed the center line into oncoming traffic. The Volkswagen crashed head-on into a black Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Michael Todd Olson (63) of Hammond, hauling a camping trailer.

The operator of the Volkswagen (McLeod) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Olson) had minor injuries and was not transported.

The highway was closed for about 4.5 hours for the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia River Fire and Rescue, Columbia County Medical Examiner’s Office, 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.

PF&R Responds to multi vehicle crash on St. Helens Road with a Hazardous Materials Concern

At 6:21 AM, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a multi-vehicle crash on St. Helens Road (Hwy 30) south of the St. Johns Bridge closing the road down for hours in each direction. Involved in the crash were 2 private vehicles and 2 tractor trailers. One semi-truck was carrying auto parts while the other was hauling 2 fuel tanker trailers completely loaded. There was 1 patient transported to the hospital as a trauma system entry. All others involved in this accident were assessed on scene and denied any medical need. Portland Fire worked alongside many agencies in mitigating this emergency and all have cleared the scene some 7 hours after the incident was dispatched out. This complicated scene involved a complete shutdown of the 4-lane highway for the safety of those on scene.

PF&R crews from Station 22 arrived to find multiple vehicles and semi-trucks involved in a crash. A quick assessment of the scene found a single victim with potential injuries that required an ambulance trip to the hospital with all others denying medical need.

There was fuel and oil observed to be flowing away from the crash site mixed with the runoff from the falling rain. There was concern that this petroleum mix was from the overturned tanker which prompted the command officer to have the Hazardous Materials Coordinator for PF&R respond to the incident for consultation. Further investigation found that the oil was from the motor compartment of one of the semi-trucks and the fuel was from the associated saddle tank of the truck that began the day with only 35 gallons of fuel in the tank. On scene crews quickly put together dams around any local drains to limit the amount of fuel that entered the water collection system near this crash. Following this environmentally focused effort, crews worked to stabilize the tanker on its side.

One of the tractor trailers was hauling auto parts while the other was carrying two loaded fuel tanker trailers, one with 4K gallons of gasoline and another with 3.5K gallons of diesel fuel. The resulting crash had the gasoline tank on its side while the diesel tank remained on it wheels allowing for the diesel tank to be easily disconnected from the leading tanker trailer and hauled away undamaged. The loaded tank on its side, with a cargo valued at an estimated $500K, was a challenge to address successfully given the weight of the trailer and the potential environmental damage should the tank rupture. A plan was put in place to drill a hole in the tank while on its side, extract and collect the gasoline in a different tanker trailer, and then roll the overturned tanker trailer back onto its wheels. This required the use of environmentally safe foam, crews to have hose lines drawn with pumps on the engine engaged and pressurized water in the hose lines, and members breathing supplied air in the event there was a catastrophic event involving the need for fire suppression and rescue. In a very smooth, methodical, and coordinated process all under the watchful eye of PFR HazMat coordinator and other experts on scene, the fuel was relocated safely and the tanker rolled onto its wheels with no need for additional water flow nor rescue.

PF&R would like to thank our many partners in this long response including BOEC, PPB, ODOT, PBOT, PBES, NW Towing, and TLC Towing.

###

After an investigation by members of the PPB Traffic Division, this case involving the death of a motorcyclist last October, was presented to a Multnomah County Grand Jury. On March 27, 2025, the Grand Jury indicted Stephen Pettefer, 41 for Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Assault 3, Assault 4, Reckless Driving and Recklessly Endangering Another Person.

On May 1, 2025, members of the United State Marshals Task Force arrested Pettefer in Downtown Portland. He was lodged in the Multnomah County Detention Center.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A motorcyclist has died after a crash in August in the Lloyd Neighborhood

On August 5, 2024, at 2:50 p.m., Portland Police Officers assigned to North Precinct responded to a crash near the intersection of Northeast Grand Avenue and Northeast Multnomah Street. When they arrived they found a crash involving two SUVs and a motorcyclist. The motorcyclist, identified as Aundrae Laroy Black, 68, was transported to a local hospital with significant injuries. The Medical Examiner has notified the Portland Police Bureau that Mr. Black died on October 22, 2024, at 10:45 a.m.

Information gathered at the scene concludes the crash occurred when a SUV, traveling east on Northeast Multnomah Street, collided with the motorcyclist going northbound on Northeast Grand Avenue. The SUV then collided with a second SUV that was also going northbound on Northeast Grand Avenue. Both drivers of the SUVs remained at the scene and cooperated with responding officers.

The investigation is continuing. If anyone has additional information about this crash and has not talked to police, please e-mail imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attn: Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 24-196168.

###PPB###

The man killed in a shooting that occurred on April 27, 2025, has been identified as Joshua Manahan, 44, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death. They are requesting privacy at this time, but provided the attached photo for public release.

The Medical Examiner determined Manahan died of homicide by gunshot wound.

Photo description: Portrait of Joshua Manahan; Joshua poses with a dog

##PPB###

Original Message Below

One person is deceased following a shooting in Downtown Portland.

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, at approximately 10:20 p.m., Central Precinct officers responded to reports of a shooting near the intersection of South Harbor Drive and South Harrison Street in Downtown Portland. When they arrived, officers located an adult male who had been shot. The individual was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The suspect or suspects fled the scene. 

On Monday, April 28, 2025, detectives learned the victim died. The Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Unit is now investigating this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Brent Christensen at rent.Christensen@police.portlandoregon.gov">Brent.Christensen@police.portlandoregon.gov or Detective Samantha Cater at Samantha.Cater@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-109370.

The identity of the victim will be released after the Medical Examiner has determined the cause and manner of death and next of kin has been notified.

###PPB###

The Portland Police Bureau directs member action through its policies, procedures, and rules, as found within Directives. The Bureau is in the process of reviewing the following Directive(s) and seeks community input.

Community members are encouraged to read the directives using the link(s) below, then follow the link at the bottom of the PDF copy of the directive to provide comments.

First Universal Review link: https://www.portland.gov/police/1ur

• 0612.10, Death Messages
• 0640.10, Crime Scene Procedures

Second Universal Review link: https://www.portland.gov/police/2ur

• 0320.00, Portland Police Bureau Reporting of Potential Exculpatory or Impeachment Information

All Bureau Directives are available at https://www.portland.gov/police/directives . This webpage also enables community members to sign up to receive email notifications when new or revised directives are posted.

Photo description: Cover of Manual of Policy and Procedures

###PPB###

A home in the Parkrose Heights neighborhood has been cleared of squatters and suspects engaged in other criminal activity, leading to several arrests and seizure of drugs, guns, and stolen property.

On April 29, 2025, the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT), assisted by the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT), the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT), K9 Unit, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS or drone) Unit, and the North & Central Neighborhood Response Teams, executed a search warrant at a home in the 2200 block of Northeast 102nd Avenue. This residence had been a significant source of disruption in the neighborhood, generating a high volume of police calls over the past year and complaints from neighbors.  
 
An East Precinct patrol officer, in collaboration with the East NRT, initiated an investigation into the residence in an effort to resolve ongoing issues affecting the property and surrounding area. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that the homeowner was facing medical challenges and was no longer living at the location. 
 
While he was away, the home had been taken over by multiple individuals involved in criminal activity, including a drug dealer and an individual posing as a landlord who was illegally charging people to live on the property. With support from the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, an affidavit was prepared to support a search warrant, which was subsequently granted by a judge. 
 
Upon execution of the search warrant, 13 people were contacted, and 9 were arrested on various charges and outstanding warrants. The search resulted in the recovery of one illegally possessed firearm, 22 grams of methamphetamine, 13 grams of fentanyl, 1 gram of cocaine, $1,440 in seized currency, a recovered stolen motorcycle, a significant amount of ammunition, and evidence of identity theft, fraud, and narcotics distribution.  
 
Once the residence was cleared, it was secured. PPB is working with the property owner's family and care team to regain control of the residence and ensure the safety of the surrounding neighborhood. 

Arrested were:

Tyler Dean Roberts, 32, Burglary in the First Degree, Attempted Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, Attempted Unlawful Manufacture/ Delivery of Drugs Schedule II,  
Unlawful Possession of Drugs Schedule II – Felony, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine - Felony - 10+ Grams Commercial.
 

Melissa Ann Sponsler, 44, Burglary in the First Degree

 
Michael Chene, 38, Warrant - Failure to Appear - Theft in the Second Degree/PCS - Clackamas County 
 

Charles Bernard Gainer, 32, Burglary in the First Degree, Identity Theft (14 counts) 
 

Erin Leeann Weber, 43, Warrant – Failure to Appear Theft in the Second Degree - Clackamas County, Warrant – Failure to Appear UUMV - Multnomah County. Upon being taken into custody, Weber claimed to have swallowed narcotics. As a result, officers were required to maintain observation for six hours, including accompanying Weber during an ambulance transport to the hospital, where she was medically evaluated and released. Prior to arrest, Weber was located hiding under a piece of particle board beneath a mattress inside a trailer for three hours. 
 

Rita Silonsochilt, 31, Warrant – Failure to Appear Larceny - Clackamas County 
 

Charles Christopher Kelly, 47, Burglary in the First Degree

Kethleen Lynn Conklin, 29, Warrant – Failure to Appear, Possession of a Controlled Substance II - Washington County 
 
Destinee Alexis Davidson, 27, Warrant – Failure to Appear Theft in the Second Degree- Marion County, Warrant – Failure to Appear Theft in the First Degree - Marion County, Warrant – Failure to Appear Attempt Assault in the Fourth Degree/Harassment - Clackamas County  

###PPB###

This version includes a new photograph link with sensitive information redacted. Newsrooms, please use this photo, not the one sent earlier

A shooting suspect is in custody following a multi-day, intensive investigation by Detectives with the Enhanced Community Safety Team (ECST), and an arrest by the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT).

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 5:58 p.m., Portland Police Officers from East Precinct and the Focused Intervention Team (FIT), responded to a report of a shooting at Southeast 106^th Avenue and Southeast Stark Street. Officers found evidence of gunfire, including 16 ammunition casings, but no victims or suspects at the scene. A short time later, officers were notified that a man was dropped at a nearby hospital with gunshot wounds.

Officers obtained a description of a vehicle used by someone who dropped the victim at the hospital and an alert officer spotted that vehicle. The officer attempted to stop the driver, but he eluded at high speed. Due to the danger to the community and involved officers, they did not initiate a pursuit of the driver hoping he would slow down and stop recklessly driving on public streets. Unfortunately, he chose to continue driving recklessly and crashed his car at Northeast 122^nd Avenue and Northeast Glisan Street. The driver ran off into the neighborhood. Officers quickly set up a perimeter from East Burnside Street to Northeast Glisan Street, Northeast 122^nd Avenue to Northeast 127th Avenue. Officers notified residents of the area of the potential danger using the Public Alerts system, requesting that they shelter-in-place with doors and windows locked. Additional resources were summoned, including the Air Support Unit, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS or drone) Unit, K9 Unit, and on duty SERT members.  

Following a careful, methodical search, officers located the suspect hiding under a deck and he was arrested. The community was notified through Public Alerts that the shelter in place request was no longer in effect. ECST Detectives responded to the scene. The investigation revealed that the person arrested was not believed to be involved in the shooting. However, DeShawn R. Nichols, 30, of Portland, was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on an outstanding arrest warrant and other charges related to eluding the police and causing danger to the public (Attempt to Elude Police By Vehicle, Attempt to Elude Police on Foot, Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver-Property Damage). A search of the car that Nichols was driving resulted in the location and seizure of a stolen gun.

The shooting victim, a 41-year-old male, had serious, potentially life-threatening injuries, and he was transported to a different hospital by ambulance for advanced trauma care. He is recovering at the hospital and expected to survive his injuries.

Witnesses provided helpful information to ECST investigators and evidence found led them to identify a suspect, Amir J. Christianson, 21, of Portland. In the evening of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Detectives located Christianson and called in SERT (along with the Crisis Negotiation Team or CNT), who successfully arrested him.

A search warrant was served in the 2500 block of Northeast 15^th Avenue by Detectives who located two handguns (photo). They were seized as evidence and will be tested.

During the investigation of the shooting and the subsequent search warrants, Detectives found information about other crimes committed by Christianson against members of his family. He was booked into the MCDC on charges of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree-Domestic Violence, Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct, and Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree.

The investigation continues. If anyone has information about this case or crimes committed by Christianson, they’re asked to email imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attn: ECST and reference case number 25-105207.

In addition, information about this or any felony crime can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Oregon. Anyone wishing to submit a secure and anonymous tip regarding any unsolved felony crime should visit the Crime Stoppers of Oregon website or visit the App Store and download P3 Tips for your mobile device. Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 cash for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime and tipsters remain anonymous.

Portland's community notification system is called PublicAlerts. Click this link to sign up. PublicAlerts sends information by text, email, and voice message about how to stay safe during an emergency.

###PPB###

The Portland Police Bureau needs the public’s help in locating the suspect in a possible attempted abduction of a child in the Mt. Tabor Neighborhood.

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at approximately 10:00 a.m., officers responded to a suspicious person call in the area of Southeast 50^thAvenue and Southeast Harrison Street. When they arrived, a woman reported to officers that two hours earlier, while she gathered her belongings inside her residence, she noticed that her stroller with her child inside had vanished. The woman reportedly ran out to the street and noticed a man pushing the stroller and child away from her residence. The woman caught up to the man and told officers she punched him in the face before he fled without the uninjured child. Officers searched the area and were not able to locate the man. They were not able to locate any security cameras either.

The suspect is described as a Caucasian male in his 50’s, approximately 6’ feet tall and 250 pounds. He was wearing a black beanie and a black medical type of mask. In addition, he was wearing a black zip-up sweatshirt and black jeans.

Anyone who knows this man, or knows anything about this case, is asked to contact Detective Billy Winters at s@police.portlandoregon.gov">William.Winters@police.portlandoregon.gov(503) 823-0466 and reference case number 25-110713.

###PPB###

The suspects connected to a non-fatal overdose in 2023 have turned themselves in. 

On Monday, April 28, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m., De’Lone Kelley and Samantha Smith walked into the jail lobby in the Justice Center and turned themselves in. 

The Portland Police Bureau would like to thank the community for assistance.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau needs the public’s help in locating two individuals who are wanted in connection with a non-fatal fentanyl overdose involving their child. 

The incident occurred at the family's apartment in the 12000 block of Southeast Powell Court in June 2023. A three-year-old child suffered a non-fatal fentanyl overdose that resulted in a severe brain injury. The young boy is now five years old and under the guardianship of a DHS caretaker, and he requires 24-hour medical care.

Following a criminal investigation, the boy’s parents, De’Lone Kelley and Samantha Smith, pled guilty to Assault in the Third Degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree. The couple was supposed to turn themselves in earlier this month, but they have failed to do so, and their whereabouts are currently unknown.

The Portland Police Bureau is seeking the public's help in locating Kelley and Smith. Anyone with information regarding their location is urged to contact Detective Michael Jones at michael.jones@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 23-166659.

Photo description: De’Lone Kelley

Photo description: Samantha Smith

###PPB###

Richard Cheung has been found safe and is now home. PPB would like to thank the community for their help.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau is seeking information about a missing man last seen in the Richmond Neighborhood.

Richard Cheung left his home in the 1800 block of Southeast Ladd Avenue at about 3:00 p.m. and was last seen around 7:48 p.m. in the 3200 block of Southeast Kelly Street after having contact with Portland Street Response, where he declined their services. Richard initially left his residence to search for cans and uses a dark blue baby stroller to transport them with. Richard usually searches for cans in the alleyways of Ladd’s Addition.

Richard Cheung is a 90-year-old Asian male, 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 100 lbs. Richard was last seen wearing multiple layers of jackets, but the colors are unknown. Richard had a stroke several years ago and is partially paralyzed on the right side. He takes some medications but is otherwise healthy.  Richard does not have memory or cognitive issues. He speaks Cantonese and his English is limited.  A DMV photo of Richard has been provided but he appears thinner now.

PPB efforts to locate Richard have so far been unsuccessful. If anyone sees Richard, please call 911. If anyone has non-time-sensitive information about him, please contact the Portland Police Missing Persons Unit by e-mail missing@police.portlandoregon.gov.
 

Photo: DMV Photo of Richard Cheung

Photo: Baby stroller similar to Richard’s

###PPB###

On Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 7:04 a.m., officers from the North Precinct responded to a call of a body found near the intersection of Flint Avenue and North Tillamook Street, on a grassy area next to Interstate 5. Police arrived at the location and found a person who was deceased.

Portland Police Bureau detectives responded to the scene to investigate. If anyone has information about this incident, they are asked to please contact Detective Ryan Foote at ryan.foote@police.portlandoregon.gov, (503) 823-0781 or Detective Matt Brown at matthew.brown@police.portlandoregon.gov (503) 823-0859. Please reference case number 25-108644.

The identity of the victim will be released after the Medical Examiner has confirmed the cause of death and after family members have been notified. The PIO is not responding to the scene. More information will be released when appropriate.

###PPB###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: April 30, 2025

Teen in custody after shooting incident in west Salem

Salem, Ore. — A Salem teenager is in custody for his involvement in a shooting incident in west Salem on Tuesday afternoon.

At approximately 4:45 p.m. on April 29, several callers reported hearing multiple gunshots in the area of Elm ST and Kingwood AV NW. Witnesses reported suspect details to arriving officers who searched the area, including the use of police canine team.

A 16-year-old boy identified as the suspect involved in the incident was located at a residence in the 1300 block of Elm ST NW. A semi-automatic rifle, which appeared altered, was located and seized. The teen, who is the custody of the Yamhill County Department of Community Justice Juvenile Division faces charges in a Polk County court.

No injuries were reported; however, a neighbor informed police that a bullet damaged a window of their home.

Franklin, Elm, and 3^rd STS between Rosemont and Kingwood AVS were temporarily closed during the search for the suspect. The area reopened at approximately 5:45 p.m.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: April 30, 2025

Man arrested in connection with explosions in southeast Salem neighborhood

Salem, Ore. — Jason Douglas Kiser of Salem was arrested yesterday afternoon, April 29, for his involvement in the investigation of series of explosions that targeted a residence in the 5700 block of Woodside DR SE.

In the first incident, an explosion was reported on April 23 at approximately 2:30 a.m. Damage from the improvised explosive device was limited to a vehicle in the driveway. A second incident at the location was reported on April 25 just after 2:00 p.m., after another explosion occurred in the front yard of the residence. The third incident occurred on April 28, just after 10:00 p.m. The improvised explosive device damaged a vehicle in the driveway.

The initial investigation by patrol officers and follow up done by the Bomb Squad identified the 38‑year‑old Kiser as the suspect. It was determined that Kiser and the homeowner are known to one another.

Kiser was arrested on April 29 afternoon as he entered a business in the 5700 block of Commercial ST SE. The Bomb Squad responded to the scene and performed a search of Kiser’s vehicle. An additional improvised explosive device was recovered from the interior.

Kiser was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Reckless endangering, three counts
• Criminal mischief, three counts

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: April 28, 2025

Update 04-28-2025 | 1515

Please note a correction to the following statement: Before a citation is sent to the vehicle’s driver notifying them of the incident, a recording of any violation identified by the system is verified by a police officer.

We apologize for any confusion and appreciate the opportunity to provide clarification.

# # #

Originally published 04-28-2025 | 1030

Photo enforcement program to expand at existing south Salem locations

Salem, Ore. — Salem’s longtime photo enforcement program is set to expand this week by increasing detection capability for red light and speed violations at two south Salem intersections.

Starting Thursday, May 1, the northbound-facing cameras at Commercial ST and Kuebler BV SE and Commercial ST at Madrona AV SE will detect whether vehicles stop for the red lights or exceed the posted speed limit.

For the first month, between May 1 and May 30, warnings will be issued to the northbound drivers who violate the stop light or the speed rule through those Commercial ST intersections. Before a citation is sent to the vehicle’s registered owner notifying them of the incident, a recording of any violation identified by the system is verified by a police officer.

In the 17 years since program was implemented, data from the sites indicates a steady decrease in crashes at those fixed traffic enforcement camera locations. Salem has six intersections with the automated technology:

• Center ST at Hawthorne AV NE
• Commercial ST at Kuebler BV SE
• Commercial ST at Madrona AV SE
• Commercial at Marion STS NE
• Mission at 25^th STS SE
• Silverton at Fisher RDS NE

Traffic safety and fatal collision reduction remains a Salem Police Department strategic priority and is a priority issue for the Salem community. An anonymous poll of Salem residents via the neighborhood social media platform Nextdoor in February provided insight into the community’s perception of the program. Sixty-one percent of respondents agreed with the use of the camera systems, and 59% would like to see more locations added.

# # #

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

Tigard Police officers responded to a deadly crash this evening between a vehicle and a pedestrian on SW Gaarde Street.

At 7:16 PM today (4/26/25), officers responded to the crash in the 10800 block of SW Gaarde Street. Officers learned a 48-year-old man who was driving a minivan was heading westbound on Gaarde when he hit a pedestrian. Officers and emergency services attempted CPR, but sadly, the pedestrian died at the scene.

The driver stayed on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. It does not appear that the driver was speeding or impaired at the time of the crash.

The pedestrian, an adult man, is not being identified at this time pending family notifications.

The Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) also responded to the scene, and SW Gaarde was closed temporarily until around 10:30 PM for their investigation.

###

At 4:51 a.m. on Monday, April 28, callers to 911 reported a home on fire in the 19500 block of Southwest 68^th Avenue in Tualatin. Multiple callers reported hearing an explosion, and initial reports indicated that occupants had evacuated the residence. Due to the descriptions and number of callers, the call was upgraded to a first alarm to bring additional personnel and resources to the scene. Tualatin Police arrived and began assisting with evacuations.

Firefighters arrived within six minutes of being dispatched and found heavy smoke coming from the garage of a duplex, working quickly to extinguish the fire. They found heavy fire in the attic that extended to the neighboring unit of the duplex. At the same time, crews searched both residences and confirmed that no occupants remained in the structure.

A fire investigator determined the explosions that callers reported hearing came from aerosol cans near the fire area. The investigator determined the fire was accidental and started outside the home before spreading into the attic.

In total, nine residents and four pets between the two units are displaced and receiving assistance through the Red Cross. Additionally, one patient was treated and released at the scene. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue would also like to thank Lake Oswego Fire and American Medical Response for their assistance.

###

Just before 3 AM on Friday morning the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to 4503 E 5^th street for a structure fire. First arriving crews found heavy fire coming from a third story apartment and quickly requested a second alarm to bring additional resources to the scene. Currently there are about 15 fire units operating on scene with approximately 33 personnel including firefighters from Clark County Fire District 6. The fire was under control in about 30 minutes. Unfortunately, one adult deceased victim was discovered during the operation. The Vancouver Fire Dept Chaplain, Pete Schrater, is working on scene to assist Red Cross in providing aid to about 20 people who appear to be displaced out of 9 apartments. No further civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. The Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire where fire crews are expected to be performing overhaul and extinguishing hot spots for several hours.

Capt Joe Hudson

VFD PIO

epios@cityofvancouver.us">cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us

epio@gmail.com">vanfirepio@gmail.com

503-454-6345

At 11:39 today (04/28/2025) the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to 1618 NE 107^th Ave in Vancouver, WA for the report of an electric powered scooter that was on fire next to a field.  The first arriving engine requested a HazMat Team Leader consult which resulted in the deployment of the regional hazmat team from Vancouver Fire.  The scooter appeared to be experiencing a thermal runaway in the battery compartment which resulted in a small fire and off-gassing from the cells.  Hazmat team members in chemical protective suits and self-contained breathing apparatus safely move the scooter to a salt-brine filled container to both cool the thermal runaway and discharge the remaining power in the battery cells.

Vancouver Fire would like to caution everyone that the smoke produced by some battery fires can be toxic and possibly flammable. 

To reduce the chance of scooter battery fires, always use approved batteries, chargers and follow manufacturer instructions. Store scooters away from flammable materials, exits and ensure they are not left unattended while charging. If you notice any signs of battery damage, like swelling, leakage, or overheating, stop using the scooter immediately and get away from it.

At 11:28 on April 27^th, Vancouver Fire responded to a single vehicle rollover just east of 172^nd Ave on NE Ward Rd.  Battalion Chief 2 and Engine 4 arrived to find 1 sedan on its top with a passenger trapped in the vehicle.  The driver had been able to remove herself from the car and was uninjured.  The on scene crew worked to stabilize the car and gain access to the trapped person.  Truck 10 arrived and quickly formed a plan to carefully remove the passenger using electric extrication tools.  American Medical Response transported the patient to a local hospital in fair condition.  Investigation is being conducted by Clark County Sheriffs office.  Vancouver Fire would like to remind everyone that seatbelts save lives. 

Vancouver, Wash. – This afternoon at around 3:15 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 3100 block of NE Andresen Rd. Witnesses reported that multiple males were fighting and someone had a knife. Police located a male who had left the scene who had cuts and knife wounds. He was transported to an area hospital for evaluation of his injuries.  The knife used in the assault was located. Police also located the suspect who was arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail for Assault I.

The Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit will continue the investigation.

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At 7:17 am on Friday, May 2, multiple 911 callers reported a column of smoke in the Juniper Ridge area, near the Central Oregon Irrigation Hydro Plant on property owned by the City of Bend.  First arriving resources found a passenger vehicle fully engulfed, with fire spreading to a tree and adjacent vegetation.  Bend Fire & Rescue crews were able to quickly contain and extinguish the fire, with mutual aid assistance provided by a water tender from Redmond Fire.  One person was transported by ambulance to St Charles Medical Center in Bend.  

Upon investigation, it was determined that the vehicle, a Nissan Pathfinder SUV, was being used as living quarters and was occupied at the time of the fire.  A candle was being used to keep warm, and the candle ignited nearby combustibles inside the vehicle.  The vehicle and contents were a complete loss, estimated at $8,000.  

Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind the community that anything which produces heat needs a safe space around it.  Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from all heating equipment such as fireplaces and space heaters.  Make sure that fueled portable heaters are rated for indoor use.  If they are for outdoor use only, they can produce deadly carbon monoxide if used in an enclosed area.  For more safety tips, visit our website at https://www.bendoregon.gov/government/departments/fire-rescue/community-programs

Bend Fire responded to a reported fire in the crawl space of a manufactured home at Rock Arbor Mobile Home Park on East Hwy 20 in Bend. Crews arrived to find black smoke coming from under the house. The fire had not spread to the interior of the house and was extinguished quickly. The homeowner and neighbors were clear of the house when we arrived.
 

The investigation determined that the owner and a neighbor were attempting to drive away rock chucks from under the house. A commercially available rodent smoke bomb was used as a means to drive them away. But this caught the plastic vapor barrier on fire under the home. By calling 911 immediately, they helped limit the damage to under the house and very little smoke damage inside. Damage is estimated at $10,000.

Bend Fire & Rescue reminds everyone to keep fire producing devices away from and under your house. Weed burners are the most common cause of these types of fires where a flame is used to remove a nuisance weed but the house is accidentally ignited, but these smoke bombs pose the same danger. This type of smoke bomb is designed to be used in fields and large open areas as a means to remove rodents. Ten feet of separation to all structures (decks, fences, houses, sheds, etc) shall be maintained for any open flame use, including rodent smoke bombs, to prevent these types of fire from happening. Never use any of these products during fire season.

Deschutes County Man Arrested for Aggravated Animal Abuse

Date: April 30, 2025

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. – A 75-year-old man from the unincorporated area of Deschutes County has been arrested in connection with an animal abuse investigation involving a 5-month-old Dachshund puppy.

On April 26, 2025, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputy and animal control officer responded to a report of alleged animal abuse in the 15000 block of Sparks Drive in south Deschutes County. A witness reported seeing a resident beating a dog with a shovel and indicated that the incident was captured on video.

Deputies contacted the suspect, identified as John Coe Richardson, 75, of La Pine, Oregon. Richardson was uncooperative during the initial contact, and deputies could not seize the dog then. In the meantime, the case was forwarded to the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office for legal review.

On April 29, deputies began coordinating with the District Attorney’s Office to develop a safety plan to make contact and arrest Richardons. On April 30, at approximately 12:50 p.m., deputies located Richardson in the La Pine area and took him into custody without incident.

Three dogs, including the victim animal, were safely removed from Richardson’s possession and transported for evaluation. The animals have been lodged with the Central Oregon Humane Society for additional care and support.

Richardson was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail and is facing the following charges:

• ORS 167.322 – Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree (Class C felony)

• ORS 167.325 – Animal Abuse in the Second Degree

The investigation is ongoing and additional information may be released in the future. 

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County. 

## End of Release ## 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

May is National Wildfire Awareness Month: Pacific Power continues to lead in wildfire prevention efforts

PORTLAND, OR (May 1, 2025) – To recognize National Wildfire Awareness Month, Pacific Power is encouraging Oregonians to prepare for fire season. Fire weather conditions, such as severe drought combined with summer windstorms or active wildfires, could lead to safety-related power outages. 

Long-term forecasts by Pacific Power’s meteorology team are indicating 2025 will have a warmer and drier summer than normal, with the outlook predicting above-normal significant fire potential east of the Cascades beginning in July. This is due to large amounts of carryover fire fuels and brush from previous years, and an early onset of warm and dry weather. Above-normal conditions will possibly continue into August.

Pacific Power is leading the way in wildfire prevention, investing close to $70 million over the past five years in strengthening its system in Oregon, working hard to protect customers from the risks associated with wildfires. The company’s prevention practices are focused on three main areas.

• Situational Awareness: We use 24/7 monitoring and forecasting, along with analysis of 30 years of data, to both show the big picture and provide a day-to-day look at wildfire risk across the states we serve.

• Operational Practices: We have practices in place to help keep our customers and communities safe, by employing sensitive protective settings on powerlines when elevated risk conditions exist; conducting enhanced vegetation management; closely monitoring all fires near our equipment; maintaining the ability to conduct a Public Safety Power Shutoff anywhere across our service area; and by having the ability to proactively de-energize our lines when a wildfire approaches our equipment.

• System Strengthening: We have invested millions of dollars in infrastructure enhancements that reduce risk and prevent wildfires, concentrated in geographic areas at greatest risk of wildfires. This includes rebuilding lines using covered conductor and adding more sensitive equipment that can de-energize power lines within fractions of a second when interference is detected.

“The safety of our customers and communities is our top priority,” said Allen Berreth, Pacific Power’s vice president of operations. “We have made significant investments in preventing wildfires, and are committed to this ongoing mission.”

Even as electric providers partner with federal, state and local agencies and Tribes to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season, preparedness is a year-round effort, and everyone has a part to play when it comes to readiness.

Resources are available to help every Oregonian take steps to plan ahead and be ready for wildfire-related power outages. At wildfire.oregon.gov, Oregonians can find tips to stay informed, make a plan and trim trees and plants to create defensible spaces to help slow the spread of wildfire.

Pacific Power customers can visit PacificPower.net/WildfireSafety for resources and information, including an outage preparation checklist for residential and business customers, an interactive map outlining potential public safety power shutoff areas and the company’s 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Plan.

Video of the event, interview excerpts and file footage of Pacific Power employees at work can be viewed and downloaded at this link:

Pacific Power 2025 Media Kit - Dropbox

###

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with over two million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Pacific Power to share wildfire season outlook

This meeting will not be held at a physical location. If you wish to attend or address the WRWC Board, please contact Katherine DeSau by email at katherine.desau@tvwd.org or by phone at 503-848-3078 by 2:00 p.m. on April 29, 2025.  

The Board meeting agenda packet and additional information regarding the WRWC are available here: https://www.willametteriver.org/wrwc/meetings

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OREGON NATIONAL GUARD TO HOLD MOBILIZATION CEREMONY FOR SOLDIERS DEPLOYING TO HORN OF AFRICA

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon National Guard will hold a mobilization ceremony for approximately 225 Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), which is deploying to the Horn of Africa to support Operation Inherent Resolve.

WHEN: Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: The ceremony will take place at the Salem Armory Auditorium, 2320 17th Street NE, Salem, Oregon 97301.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Media members are invited to attend the mobilization ceremony for Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers deploying to the Horn of Africa. The event will honor Soldiers from multiple units within the 41st IBCT who will provide base security and force protection in Djibouti, Kenya, and Somalia.

DEPLOYING UNITS: The 1-200 Infantry Battalion serves as the Task Force Headquarters for the Oregon National Guard 41st IBCT during deployment, but at home, it is under the New Mexico National Guard, headquartered in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Approximately 225 Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers are comprised of the following units:

•   2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, Headquartered in Springfield.

•   741st Brigade Engineer Battalion, Headquartered in Clackamas.

•   2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, Headquartered in Forest Grove.

•   141st Brigade Support Battalion (deploying separately in June 2025), Headquartered in Portland.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: Interviews with deploying Soldiers and family members (with prior coordination), photo/video opportunities of the ceremony, and B-roll of Soldiers preparing for deployment (see story and connected media) here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/495200/urban-operations-demolitions-41st-ibct-trains-horn-africa-mission.

MEDIA RSVP: Media planning to attend should RSVP by [DATE] to [YOUR EMAIL] or call [YOUR PHONE]. Please include the names of attending personnel.

Please contact Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department, to RSVP for this event.

-30-

Released Images: 

250330-Z-ZJ128-1001: Soldiers from the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team fire M4 carbines during weapons qualification at Range 73, Yakima Training Center, Wash., March 30, 2025. Individual weapons qualification was a critical component of Operation Djibouti Dawn Annual Training, ensuring combat readiness for the upcoming Horn of Africa deployment. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250405-Z-ZJ128-1001: A weapons squad from 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment fires an M240 machine gun from a support-by-fire position during a blank-fire iteration at Yakima Training Center, Wash., April 5, 2025. The training exercise prepared the crew for live-fire operations scheduled for the following day as part of Operation Djibouti Dawn Annual Training in preparation for their Horn of Africa deployment. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250406-Z-ZJ128-1004: Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment enter the live fire shoothouse at Range 24, Yakima Training Center, Wash., April 6, 2025. The urban operations training is part of Operation Djibouti Dawn Annual Training in preparation for the unit's upcoming deployment to the Horn of Africa. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

File stock photo of the 17th Street Armory in Salem: 221016-Z-ZJ128-1002: Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Combat Team (IBCT), Oregon National Guard formation at the unit's re-stationing ceremony Oct. 16, 2022, at the 17th Street Armory in Salem, Ore. The company moved from Medford to Salem, culminating with the re-stationing ceremony, celebrating their arrival at a new home armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

EUGENE, Ore. - Members of the Oregon National Guard supported the University of Oregon Ducks annual spring football game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. 

The Oregon National Guard held recruiting displays outside the stadium, giving the public a chance to interact with military equipment and speak with service members. 

“We get to showcase what we do, some of the vehicles we have, and what we’re capable of,” said Master Sgt. Brandon Chase, Oregon Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Noncommissioned Officer In Charge of Eugene, Springfield, and Corvallis. “We’re letting them know that we live here and we serve here and we’re huge Duck fans.”

Prior to kickoff, service members, veterans, and their families held a large U.S. flag in the center of the field as Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Duane Reno with the 234th Army Band sang the national anthem. As the flag was walked off the field, two F-15 Eagles assigned to the 173rd Fighter Wing at Klamath Falls flew overhead.

During halftime, new recruits and some currently serving members of the military took the Oath of Enlistment in the end field. 

At the conclusion of the game, more than 125 service members lined up with the football team to participate in an “End of Game Exchange.”

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PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

To view the Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 18, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Adam Weyeneth, Private Security Identification No. 041697

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Agency Update

5. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – August 19, 2025, at 1:30 p.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 Private Security/Private Investigations Policy 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.

MEDIA ADVISORY
May 1, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator

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

Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony to honor fallen officers

The annual Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem. The ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.

The names of three fallen officers were added to the memorial last month as an honor guard stood watch: Patrolman Andrew J. Laugeson of the Portland Police Bureau, end of watch May 12, 1917; Policeman George M. Lowe of the Ashland Police Department, end of watch March 3, 1919; and Assistant Chief Merle W. Bethscheider of the Silverton Police Department, end of watch May 29, 1965.

Patrolman Laugeson, Policeman Lowe, Asssistant Chief Bethscheider, and 196 previously fallen officers will be honored during the ceremony at the academy, located at 4190 Aumsville Highway SE in Salem.

The ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is proud to host each year in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and Oregon's various statewide law enforcement associations.

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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.

For more information on the Oregon Fallen Law Enforcement Officer Memorial, please visit https://www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Memorials/LawEnforcement/Pages/default.aspx.

Salem, Oregon – Next week, 16-year-old Bena (Bee-nah) Rodecap, a junior at Grant High School, will embark on the greatest adventure of her lifetime. As Oregon’s 2025 champion, Rodecap will travel to Washington D.C. to compete in the Poetry Out Loud National Competition on Tuesday, May 6. Her D.C. itinerary also includes meetings with Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Congresswoman Maxine Dexter and Sen. Jeff Merkley.

"I'm very excited to compete next week," said Rodecap, "and I can't wait to see everybody else's performance as well!”

Rodecap will compete in the national semifinals from 2 to 5 p.m. (PDT) on Tuesday, May 6. The competition will be live-streamed on the National Endowment for the Arts website. The top nine students will advance to the national finals at 2 p.m. (PDT) on Wednesday, May 7, also to be live-streamed.

An avid reader who believes that text connects people across time and space, Rodecap is “honored and enjoying the experience of being a messenger.”

“The reading of poetry can transform the written word into a deeply felt shared experience,” said First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the Poetry Out Loud State Contest on March 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre.

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

The poems Rodecap will perform for the national competition are "A Noiseless Patient Spider,” by Walt Whitman; “Say Grace” by Emily Jungmin Yoon and “How to Write a Poem,” by Laura Hershey.

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

See video of Rodecap performing and being named Oregon’s champion by First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson.

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

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

Salem – In the first quarter of 2025, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) recovered over $2 million through the work of its consumer advocate and compliance teams.

DFR’s consumer advocates have extensive knowledge across many areas of regulation, including helping those experiencing difficulties with insurance, mortgages, banking products, securities, student loans, and a variety of other financial services regulated by the division.

“This $2 million returned to Oregonians is a testament to what we can do when state government works diligently to protect consumers and hold financial institutions accountable,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “I applaud the continued commitment to ensuring fairness and justice in our financial system.”

In the first quarter of 2025, consumer advocates received 1,431 total complaints, which is up over the last quarter of 2024 when advocates saw 1,248 total complaints. Complaints in the insurance realm continue to lead the way, with 868 complaints filed so far this year. Mortgage service complaints is the next highest in areas DFR regulates with 55.

Here are a few examples of work DFR advocates have done this year:

• The consumer sold a vehicle and notified her agent’s office to remove that vehicle from the policy and add her new vehicle. The agent acknowledged receipt of the request and added the replacement vehicle but never completed removing the vehicle that was sold. The consumer noticed months later that the sold vehicle was never removed from the policy and requested a correction. The agent’s office was only able to backdate the vehicle’s removal 30 days, so a request was submitted to the corporate office for help. The insurer was unwilling to process the removal back to the requested date, saying that the information did not meet its guidelines for backdating. The consumer then filed a complaint with DFR. After reviewing the complaint, the insurer confirmed that the consumer’s request to remove the vehicle was in the agent’s notes and processed the backdated removal of the vehicle and refunded the consumer $3,354.89.

• The consumer called his dental insurer to make a plan change due to his primary dentist not being in-network with his new plan. The customer service representative told the consumer they would be allowed to complete this application change, even though it was outside of open enrollment. The application was processed, but the consumer received a letter a week later saying to change plans he would have to submit a special enrollment period (SEP) validation, which he did not qualify for. The consumer filed a complaint with DFR, and the division requested that based on the information provided, the insurer allow the plan change outside of open enrollment. The insurer agreed to this, allowing the consumer to continue to see his dentist.

• The consumer experienced a significant hail event and reported a claim for roof damage. The company hired an independent adjuster to inspect the roof, and the inspection revealed minimal damage to only roof vents and downspouts. A small payment of $94.89 was issued. The consumer contacted a roofer who completed an inspection, documented the damage, and provided an estimate for a roof replacement. The insurer did not agree with the roofer’s assessment, so the consumer filed a complaint. After receiving the complaint, the insurer conducted an additional review of the roofer’s photos, which documented roof damage. The insurer agreed to have the roof reinspected, which resulted in an approval to pay for a roof replacement.

“I continue to be impressed at the level of professionalism, customer service, and expertise our consumer advocates display on a daily basis,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, Oregon’s insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “They continue to work at a high level through extremely complex issues, which often leads to money back to Oregonians.”

In 2024, DFR recovered nearly $9 million for consumers and handled nearly 5,500 complaints.

“Our team continues to put its expertise to work for the benefit of Oregonians,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Their work gets money back into the pockets of hard-working consumers, and gives them peace of mind knowing there are people who go to bat for them every day.”

Anyone who may need a consumer advocate can call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance related issues and .finanicialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.finanicialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial-related issues.

Here is the list of complaints through the first quarter of 2025:

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

SALEM, Ore. – On May 18, 1980, the ground shook, the sky turned black, and Mount St. Helens exploded in what remains the most destructive volcanic eruption in U.S. history. Fifty-seven lives were lost, thousands of animals perished, entire forests were flattened, and over 200 homes were destroyed. The eruption caused an estimated $1.5 billion in damage. The eruption reshaped landscapes sparked years of scientific study and reinforced the importance of disaster readiness.  

Now, 45 years later, Oregon's Governor Tina Kotek is commemorating this significant event by proclaiming May 18–25, 2025, Volcano Awareness Week — a time not only for remembrance, but for readiness.  

Led by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), the proclamation seeks to educate residents and visitors about volcanic hazards and preparedness efforts across the state and serves as a crucial reminder: the Pacific Northwest is still very much an active volcanic zone. 

"Oregon is home to several active volcanoes, and awareness is key to protecting communities and ensuring public safety," said OEM Director Erin McMahon. "Volcano Awareness Week serves as an opportunity to learn about preparedness, mitigation, and response strategies while recognizing the ongoing monitoring efforts that keep people informed." 

Living in a Land of Fire: Understanding Oregon’s Volcanic Risks 

The Cascade Range — the snow-capped mountains many Oregonians and Washingtonians know and love — is part of a 1,300 km (800 mile) chain of volcanoes stretching from northern California to southern British Columbia. These dramatic peaks, formed by the slow collision and subduction of tectonic plates, include some of the most well-known and still-active volcanoes in the country. 

In Oregon alone, we have five potentially active volcanoes: 

• Mount Hood

• Mount Jefferson

• Newberry Volcano

• Three Sisters

• Crater Lake (Mount Mazama)

They are among the ten active Cascade volcanoes monitored by the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Volcano Early Warning System — a program designed to detect and alert officials to signs of volcanic unrest before an eruption occurs.   

DOGAMI, in coordination with the U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory, plays a critical role in providing scientific data to support disaster preparedness. "Oregon’s rocks record a long-lived legacy of volcanism. Volcanoes offer stunning beauty, but also present potential risks to nearby communities”, said DOGAMI Geological Survey and Services Program Manager Jason McClaughry. "Creating detailed geologic and hazard maps combined with data from modern monitoring tools allows both DOGAMI and CVO to understand the volcanic history of Oregon and to help communities prepare for future volcanic hazards.” 

Why Volcano Awareness Week Matters 

This week is a joint effort between the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), and partners like the USGS and the Washington State Emergency Management Division. Together, they’re working to raise public awareness about volcanic hazards — and more importantly, how Oregonians can prepare for them. 

OEM and DOGAMI, in collaboration with local governments and scientific organizations, will conduct public outreach efforts, social media campaigns, and educational initiatives throughout the week, including: 

• Understanding volcanic hazards such as ashfall, landslides, lahars, and pyroclastic flows.

• Reviewing evacuation routes and emergency response plans (visit TripCheck.com)

• Monitoring volcanic activity through USGS alerts and OR-Alerts.

• Preparing emergency kits with food, water, respiratory protection, and communication devices. 

Upcoming Anniversary Related events: 

• Wednesday, May 7 | 6:30 p.m.
  45th Eruptiversary Views & Brews: Voices of the Volcano (In-Person AND Virtual)

• Saturday, May 10 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  Cascades Volcano Observatory Open House 

• Thursday May 15 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  A Reddit Ask-Me-Anything session with experts from USGS and the states of Oregon and Washington

• Sunday, May 18 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  
  45th Anniversary Event with USFS at the Coldwater Science and Learning Center 

• Saturday, May 24 | 3:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  OPB Event at OMSI – Sharing of OPB Field Guide episode and panel discussion 

• The official web cam for Mount. St. Helens is also back online, with its power restored for the first time in a nearly two years. 

• See more historic photos of the eruption on the US Forest Service’s Historic Mount St. Helen’s Flcker page.

Even though volcanic eruptions are rare, their impacts can be swift and widespread. Awareness and preparedness can mean the difference between chaos and calm in the face of an eruption.

"Preparedness saves lives," McMahon added. "By learning about volcanic hazards and response measures, Oregonians can help protect themselves, their families, and their communities." 

Be 2 Weeks Ready 

Emergency preparedness starts at home. OEM encourages all residents to Be2WeeksReady — a campaign that promotes having enough supplies, water, food, and critical items to survive on your own for two weeks after a disaster. This is especially important during volcanic events, when roads may be impassable and air quality may be hazardous. 

Here are some key preparedness tips for volcanic hazards: 

• Know your local hazards. If you live near any of Oregon’s volcanoes, understand what type of hazards might affect your area. DOGAMI and OEM offer resources and maps to help you assess risk.

• Stay informed. Sign up for USGS volcano notifications sign-up for OR-Alerts, and make sure the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled on your phone.

• Follow evacuation levels. Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system:

  • Level 1: Be Ready – Stay aware and prepare to leave.

  • Level 2: Be Set – Be packed and ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.

  • Level 3: Go Now! – Leave immediately for your safety.

• Make a plan. Know your evacuation routes and how you’ll communicate with loved ones if you become separated. Learn more with OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready Toolkit.

• Help others. Check on neighbors, especially those who may need extra assistance. 

​For more details on how to prepare for volcanic hazards, visit the U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards page. Residents are encouraged to follow OEM and DOGAMIonline for up-to-date information, safety resources, and emergency alerts. 

Explore More: 

• USGS Volcano Hazards Program

• National Volcano Early Warning System

• DOGAMI - Oregon Geologic Hazard Resources

• OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready Toolkit

• Make Preparedness Fun: Engaging Kids in Emergency Readiness

• Making Preparedness Fun: Explaining Volcano Evacuations to Kids

• Kids Volcano Activity Guide

• Social Media Toolkit 

• US Forest Service’s Historic Mount St. Helen’s historic photos 

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank" title="Email OEM Public Affairs">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

Disasters don’t just impact physical safety; they take a significant toll on mental health. As communities across Oregon observe Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management is encouraging individuals, responders, and communities to prioritize emotional well-being before, during, and after emergencies.

Hurricanes, wildfires, pandemics, and other crises disrupt lives in unexpected ways. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, grief, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Vulnerable populations, including children and older adults, often struggle the most. Meanwhile, first responders face cumulative stress, increasing the risk of burnout and secondary trauma.

Seeking help in times of crisis is not always easy. Common obstacles include:

• Limited awareness of available mental health resources

• Stigma surrounding mental health conversations

• Overburdened healthcare systems struggling to meet increased demand

• Access issues in rural or underserved areas

For those displaced by disasters, housing instability and financial stress can compound emotional distress. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is key to improving mental health outcomes.

While disasters cannot always be prevented, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate their mental health impact:

• Emergency Preparedness: Creating a disaster plan and keeping emergency supplies ready can alleviate anxiety. Learn more about how to be prepared on the Be2Weeks Ready webpage.

• Strengthening social bonds: Community support systems play a crucial role in recovery. Joining a Community Response Team (CERT), becoming a Be2Weeks Ready coordinator, joining a Search and Rescue Team can help you feel less lonely.

• Equipping responders: Training first responders in mental health care enhances their ability to support themselves and others.

The Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990), 988 Lifeline, local emergency management agencies, and organizations like the Red Cross provide crisis counseling and mental health assistance during and after emergencies. Telehealth services are increasingly bridging gaps for those in remote areas. For instance, the AgriStress Hotline serves those in the farming, ranching, fisheries and forestry communities. Call 833-897-2474 or visit theirwebsite.

In addition, Oregon’s 211 Info webpage and hotlineincludes information on both physical safety and mental health resources to ensure residents can access the support they need. You can find more resources and support lines on the Oregon Health Authority’s Crisis Lines webpage.

Mental health conversations need to be normalized, especially during disasters. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Community storytelling and shared experiences of resilience can empower others to seek assistance and prioritize their emotional well-being. By embracing and sharing your experiences, you empower others to do the same.

As part of National Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is encouraging people to share their stories. You can use their list of questions to begin the discussion, and (if you want) you can share your mental health story with NAMI by sending in a video, a message, a quote, or using #MyMentalHealthon social media or submitting your story on the NAMI website.

NAMI Sample questions to start sharing your story:

• What do you wish people knew about mental health?

• What misconceptions about mental health do you encounter in your work?

• What have you learned on your mental health journey?

• How does your mental health impact how you show up within your community?

• What do you share with your friends or family in moments when they need support?

• How do you help reduce stigma surrounding mental health?

• In one word, how would you describe your mental health journey?

• What inspires you to support mental health in your life, work, or community?

• What motivates you to be an ally in the mental health movement?

While disasters present significant challenges, recovery is possible. Investing in mental health resources, reducing stigma, and fostering connected communities can lead to stronger, healthier futures.

For anyone struggling after a disaster, help is available. Whether through a friend, hotline, or professional counselor, reaching out is the first step toward healing.

• HR NEWS | Watch: Coping with Emotional Distress During Uncertain Times

• HR NEWS | Support Services for Staff

• Take Care of Yourself: Supporting Your Mental Health During a Disaster

• Helping Children Manage Anxiety Before, During and After an Emergency

• Recognizing the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Adults and Children

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network Resources

• Emergency Responders: Tips for taking care of yourself

• Oregon Health Authority: Resources for Crisis and Trauma Response

• Expert Tips for Handling Emergencies at the Workplace or Home | Red Cross

• Staying calm in turbulent times - Harvard Health

Prineville, OR – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District is seeing an uptick in escaped debris burn piles, with several over the past few weeks burning up to 30 acres in size.

For example, a recent 8-acre fire resulted from a week-old burn pile that was assumed to be out cold but rekindled several days later, requiring suppression action by firefighters. Not following burn day instructions, one of which is thoroughly checking the burn piles later when the weather shifts, are the leading causes of these escapes.

Central Oregon District Forester Rob Pentzer reminds residents that escaped debris burns can lead to citations and cost collection from the responsible party for any suppression costs.

“Escaped debris burn fires continue to be the leading human cause of wildfires on private lands.” Pentzer said, “They are also the most preventable, when folks follow the rules.”

ODF Fire Managers and Fire District Chiefs want to remind residents to:

• Check with their local fire district to ensure that burning is allowed on a given day
• Follow all instructions after obtaining any necessary permits.
• Watch the weather forecasts. Wind and rapid weather changes are major factors that can affect the spread of fire from a debris burn.
• Ensure you have a safe fire area cleared around your pile with water and tools readily available.
• Monitor your pile until it has consumed all fuels, then stir with water until the area is out cold. Unattended piles can rekindle and spread later without warning.

With May being Wildfire Awareness Month, now is the time for everyone to take these extra steps to prevent the next wildfire in Oregon. For more wildfire prevention tips, visit KeepOregonGreen.org.

For local ODF burn information, please call:

• Prineville-Sisters Unit  – (541) 447-5658
• John Day Unit  – (541) 296-9445
• The Dalles Unit – (541) 296-4626

SALEM, Ore. – A new report on the state of health of Oregon’s forests is now available. Based on an extensive aerial survey of Oregon’s forests completed last year by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service, the report shows that drought, insect pests, and tree diseases continue to be the biggest threats to the state’s trees. The full report is available at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/forestbenefits/documents/forest-health-highlights.pdf

“A large part of this report is devoted to looking at the impact from climate change, specifically drought. Drought is often paired with rising temperatures, and together these are often the underlying causes for tree mortality across our landscape. Drought reduces tree growth and increases susceptibility to insect pests and some diseases, which healthy trees may otherwise resist or tolerate,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl, who helped produce the report.

Buhl said the report also measures other causes of trees being injured or killed, such as insect pests, diseases, storms, and wildfires.

Last year a record 1.9 million acres were affected by wildfire. However, some of those acres contained sections that were not damaged, not all of the burned areas were forested, and not all forests burned with the same intensity.  Some areas that experienced low-intensity wildfires, in many places because of fuel-reduction work, may see a majority of their larger-diameter trees survive.

Areas hardest hit by drought, such as the eastern foothills of the Cascades and some parts of northeastern Oregon, saw the largest amount of non-wildfire tree damage—some 2.26 million acres. Within those 2.26 million acres is a mosaic of unaffected and current-year affected acres of forest. In 2024, 580,000 affected acres of damage from these agents were recorded. Damage consisted of 496,000 affected acres of tree injury, most of which (463,000 acres) was caused by Swiss needle cast, a foliar disease from which trees may recover. But 84,000 acres showed tree deaths. 

“We may be under-reporting the impact of many tree-killing diseases, because the signs can often be missed from the air. For example, root diseases require ground-based assessment, such as excavating roots, to verify the presence of disease.  This is labor intensive so is not done routinely across all forestlands,” said Buhl.

Buhl emphasized the importance of on-the-ground collaborators to help round out the full picture of forest health in Oregon. “In addition to information ODF and the USDA Forest Service gather, we rely on Oregon State University Forestry Extension staff from across the state, and collaborate with other natural resource agencies, universities, public and private forest landowners, and members of the public to gather information,” she said.

In the aerial survey, trained observers fly over all forested lands in the Pacific Northwest in fixed-wing aircraft and record damage to trees from all sources. Flights are staffed with one observer on each side of the aircraft. Survey flights typically fly between 1,500 to 2,500 feet above ground level, following a systematic grid four miles apart and traveling at 90 to 140 miles an hour.

The Pacific Northwest Aerial Detection Survey is the longest continuous survey of its kind in the United States, having been established in 1947 and flown every year since, except 2020 when it was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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SALEM, Ore. – May is Wildfire Awareness Month. Oregon experiences its heaviest wildfire activity during the summer months, but fires can occur at any time of year including spring. Keep Oregon Green, in partnership with federal, state, tribal and local fire and emergency response agencies, will be spreading the word about the steps we call can take to prevent the start of careless, unwanted wildfires this summer, and encouraging Oregonians to create defensible space around homes and outbuildings.

At stake: lives, property and scenic beauty

Before heading outdoors this summer, be sure to contact the agency or landowner who manages the land at your destination for an update on current fire restrictions or bans. Everyone should be familiar with these restrictions before building open fires or using equipment that could ignite a wildfire.

Only You Can Prevent Wildfires

Keep Oregon Green has been fighting wildfire with publicity since 1941, and this season the Association is reviving vintage billboard artwork from the 1950’s with Smokey’s timeless image and well-known slogan. This year’s campaign calls on the public to predict the outcome of their actions and do everything they can to prevent wildfire ignitions. Campaign artwork, PSAs, and additional wildfire safety tips can be found at keeporegongreen.org and its various social media platforms.

Coming soon: More Wildfire Awareness Month tips

During May, a new wildfire prevention topic will be shared each week to help homeowners and recreationists learn how to prevent their outdoor activities from sparking the next wildfire. For more information, visit the websites for Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org, the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov/odf, and the Oregon State Fire Marshal at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.

Follow Oregon wildfire news and prevention updates on social media: @keeporegongreen, @ORDeptForestry and @OSFM.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has launched its first-ever interactive online training for the public about reporting suspected child abuse. The training rollout coincides with Child Abuse Awareness Month and the announcement of a new safety initiative underway in Child Welfare.

Safety priorities in the initiative include improving safety for children in foster care and children who come to the attention of Child Welfare, in addition to providing training to the public and professionals known as mandatory reporters. Mandatory reporters are required by law to report suspected child abuse, and include professionals in healthcare, law enforcement, social work and education fields, among others.

The new online training helps reporters recognize types of child abuse, how to report, and understand when a family needs material or economic assistance. Across the country and in Oregon, efforts to better distinguish between child abuse and neglect and family needs related to poverty are driving family support programs, sometimes called family preservation or prevention.

“We all contribute to child safety not only by being mandatory reporters, but by being mandatory supporters,” said Aprille Flint-Gerner, ODHS Child Welfare Division director. “This training provides the public with the tools needed to recognize signs of abuse that must be reported, as well as understanding when a family needs a community resource or support, rather than a report to the hotline.”

The interactive training takes about an hour to complete and is considered the official Oregon Health Authority and ODHS state course with the most up-to-date guidance on child abuse and effective reporting. Prior to the new training, ODHS used a shorter explanatory video about reporting child abuse.       

The course, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse in Oregon, teaches:

• How to recognize signs of child abuse and understand the definitions.
• The role and impact of personal biases when determining whether a report is required.
• How to make a report and what information to provide to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline.
• What happens after a report is made.
• How to connect a family with resources.

The training also aims to prevent unnecessary abuse reports. The Oregon Child Abuse Hotline (ORCAH) receives a high number of calls that are neither reports of child abuse nor require Child Welfare intervention. In 2024, ORCAH, received 176,393 contacts, resulting in 96,246 documented screening reports. Of the documented reports, 46,483, or 27% resulted in Child Protective Services completing an assessment. ORCAH data shows that 80% of reports are from mandatory reporters, largely from representatives of law enforcement, education and the medical field.

Data in Oregon and nationally show that Black and/or African American and American Indian/Alaska Native families are disproportionately reported to child welfare. The training addresses how reporters can recognize their personal biases, including how they view a child or family in need.

“We hope the training will help reduce disproportionality in reporting and get families connected to the services they need to thrive,” Flint-Gerner said. “Child safety is about early intervention in communities whenever possible, so that children who are unsafe get help quickly, and families who need resources get connected to supports. Prevention and early intervention are where the public and mandatory reporters can really make a difference.”

The new training is available on the Reporting Child Abuse web page in partnership with Oregon State University’s Professional and Continuing Education (PACE).

Resources

• Additional materials about reporting child abuse 
• Find local resources, financial assistance, food pantry information and other free or reduced-cost help at 211info.org, via phone at 211, or via text 898211
• Information about how youth in foster care can file a complaint: email fco.info@odhsoha.oregon.gov or call 855-840-6036

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.

May 1, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843 PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a preemptive recreational use health advisory today for Wapato Marsh due to the presence of a cyanobacteria harmful algae bloom. The marsh is in Multnomah County.

OHA encourages people to visit Wapato Marsh and enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking and bird watching.

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

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

May 1, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Emigrant Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a preemptive recreational use health advisory today for Emigrant Lake, in Jackson County,  due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom.

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

OHA encourages people to visit Emigrant Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking.

Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

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

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

Symptoms

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

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

Fishing

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

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

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is seeing promising progress from the first recipients of its Pre-Development and Capacity-Building (PDCB) grants, which are designed to expand homeownership development across the state.

“Good government is anchored in partnership and a commitment to improving everyday life. Making the dream of homeownership a reality is as critical today as ever,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “By investing in the readiness and capacity of local organizations, we unlock their potential and increase access to affordable homeownership.”

From Tillamook County to Grants Pass, the $1.6 million investment in 14 nonprofit developers enabled them to grow their organizations, so they are in a better position to apply for and use state funding to develop more affordable homes for purchase.

"OHCS’ capacity-building grant helped Big River Community Land Trust (CLT) take the next step from fledgling volunteer organization to one that has broken ground on its first house and bought 2.7 acres of land in Hood River. We hope to build 40-50 affordable and sustainable cottages,” said Doug Baker, board president of the Big River CLT.

The organization used the funding to hire Alysha Sherburne as their executive director. Sherburne hit the ground running, reaching out to a wide array of community groups, businesses, local government, and individuals, along with establishing needed data systems and policies. All this work culminated in a significant donation to support their operating expenses for the year.

“Without the support of OHCS to hire Alysha, our progress would not have realized many of these gains,” Baker said.

In addition to staffing support, nine PDCB grantees used the funds to get their projects shovel ready to apply for and/or meet the timelines for OHCS’ Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) funds, a program that funds the development of affordable homes for sale.

Sammy’s Place in Tillamook County sought to build a fully accessible and equitable community for households with individuals experiencing intellectual and developmental disabilities. Using their PDCB grant, they engaged with a consultant to develop a site plan and housing designs using a high degree of universal design concepts, which go beyond standard accessibility and provide equitable access without the need for accommodations. Their community, Thompson Springs, was approved for LIFT funding in 2024.

The PDCB program was established in 2023 as part of the larger Homeownership Development Incubator Program (HDIP), which uses General Funds to support partners and projects not typically eligible for other homeownership development funds.

To learn more about the incubator program, visit the HDIP webpage.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  

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

MEDFORD, Oregon— The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved several real estate transactions, grant recommendations and rule updates, including for electric-assisted-bikes, at its meeting April 23 in Medford.

The updated e-bike rules will go into effect July 1, 2025. These rules, 736-10-0026 and 21-0065, will allow e-bikes on multi-use trails where other bicycles are allowed unless specifically restricted. They will also be allowed on the ocean shore on wet sand areas unless specifically restricted.

The updated e-bike rules also include stronger, clearer language for safe operation and required caution, particularly around other visitors, pets, children and equestrians. 

Commissioners also approved temporary emergency rules for ATV safety equipment and noise emissions after a new Oregon law transferred rulemaking responsibility to

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). Temporary rules 736-004-0150 and 736-004-0160 will keep existing rules for 180 days to give OPRD time to develop and adopt new permanent rules.

The request to adopt 736-24 -0015 concerning ocean shore vehicle access to Manzanita was postponed until the June 2025 commission meeting.

The commission approved the following grant recommendations:

• Recreational Trails Program grants totaling $706,515 for motorized trails and $1,306,116 for non-motorized trails, all pending federal approval (Federally funded grant program administered by OPRD)
• All-Terrain Vehicle Program grants totaling $818,718.44 (Grants funded by ATV user permit sales and percentage of gas tax)
• Veterans and War Memorial Grants totaling $295,195 (Grant program funded by Oregon Lottery dollars)

Approved real estate action items:

• Updated the Real Property Policy to add property disposition criteria. 
• Approved transfer of small piece of land at Fort Stevens to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to expand a veterans’ cemetery for North Coast veterans.
• Approved acquisition of PacifiCorp property at Wallowa Lake.
• Approved transfer of Tub Springs Wayside to the BLM.

It was the final meeting for Commissioners Steve Grasty, representing East of the Cascades, and Doug Deur, representing Congressional District 1. Both commissioners served two four-year terms, which will expire at the end of May.

“It’s been incredible to have the two of you serve this commission with your expertise,“ said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption. “I love the way that you push this commission to think about things differently and bring different perspectives. You navigated through some of our agency’s most difficult history. You were here when we had to close the parks in 2020, and you were here when we reopened them. Thank you for your steady leadership.”

Starting in June, incoming Commissioner Stu Spence will represent East of the Cascades and incoming Commissioner Dave Parulo will represent Congressional District 1. The next commission meeting will be held June 17-18 in Independence.

To watch the April commission meeting or any others, visit https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams and find supporting documents on the commission webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/CAC/Pages/CAC-oprc.aspx

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year at locations across the state.

On May 15, 2025 the Oregon Museum Grant committee will meet to score and rank the applications for the Oregon Museum Grant program. The recommendations from the committee will be forwarded to the Oregon Heritage Commission for final review and approval on May 27, 2025. The meeting will be held by teleconference at 9:30 a.m. interested parties may access the meeting by registering through Zoom. The meeting agenda also includes the access information.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

SILVERTON, Oregon— Silver Falls State Park welcomes visitors to its annual Mother's Day Birding and Wildflower Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 10 and 11.

Activities include a wildflower show, a native plant sale, guided bird watching and wildflower walks, educational discovery tables and live raptor presentations.

“Spring is in full swing at Silver Falls,” said Ranger Matt Palmquist. “More flowers are blooming every day – while the snow-white trilliums are starting to fade, we are seeing sunny yellow violets, delicate and subtle fringe cups, and enchanting fairy slipper orchids. The birds are in the midst of their courtship and nesting displays, and migratory species are joining our resident ones to fill the forest with birdsong. It’s a fantastic time of year to visit and learn about it all!”

Festival activities take place in South Falls Day-use area unless noted:

• Native plant sale, wildflower show, and educational discovery tables including potting a native plant to take home
• 7:30 a.m. Early Bird Walk at South Falls: 2.6 miles on Saturday and 2 miles Sunday, 3 hours
• 10:30 a.m. Budding Birders Junior Ranger Program both days and again 12:30 p.m. Sunday
• 11 a.m. and noon Wildflower Walk ½ mile, 1 hour, on both days and again at 2 p.m. Saturday
• Noon and 1 p.m. Live Raptor Presentation in the field behind the Stone Circle (no dogs please)
• 1 p.m. Family Birding Walk ½ mile, 1 hour, meet at the Stone Circle 
• 3 p.m. Family Birding Walk ½ mile, 1 hour, (Saturday) meet at Smith Creek Village, 1.5 miles from the South Falls day-use area and (Sunday) meet at Camp Silver Creek.

The event and activities are free, but there is a $10 daily parking permit fee required at Silver Falls. The full schedule will be posted online at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=things-to-do.event&eventId=48881

Salem, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and Oregon Trails Coalition will host eight virtual focus groups in May to better understand the needs of different types of trail users who use land and water trails throughout Oregon and not just at Oregon State Parks.

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback through April 30. The focus groups expand that effort and take a deeper dive into the needs of different trail users including mountain bikers, paddlers, hikers and adaptive equipment users.

The information from the survey and focus groups will help inform the Oregon Statewide Trails Plan, which provides guidance to OPRD as well as other federal, state, and local agencies and private sector partners. It outlines trends and issues, creates priorities for grant funding and recommends actions to improve trails over the next 10 years.  

Participants can join the 90-minute Zoom sessions to provide feedback. Anyone interested in joining, can register in advance using the links below:

• May 5: OHV / ATV Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 7: BIPOC Nature Network Trails Plan Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 8: Mountain Biking and Bikepacking Focus Group 4-5:30 p.m.
• May 14: Adaptive Equipment Users and Disability Trails Plan Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 15: Winter/Snow Trail Focus Group (Non-motorized and motorized) Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 27: Hiking, Trail Running, Backpacking, Equestrian User Focus Group 4:30- 6 p.m.
• May 29: Paddling (Flat water and Whitewater) Focus Group 4-5:30 p.m.
• Agency Partners Trails Plan Focus Group Meeting TBD.

Check the website for more information including updates such as the time and link for the agency partners trails plan focus group: https://www.oregontrailscoalition.org/post/oregon-state-trails-plan-share-your-trail-user-experience-in-focus-groups-this-may

Oregon Utilities Promote Wildfire Awareness: Get Ready for Fire Season by Preparing Now and Staying Informed

PGE, Pacific Power, Idaho Power and the PUC share tips and guidance as fire season approaches

Portland, Ore. – In recognition of National Wildfire Awareness Month, which kicks off today, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), Portland General Electric, Pacific Power and Idaho Power encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power invest year-round to prevent wildfire and prepare their electric grids to deliver safe, reliable power. They partner with tribes and federal, state and local agencies to plan and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season.

“We saw the tragic consequences of extreme weather this January in Los Angeles and in Oregon’s record-breaking 2024 wildfire season,” said Commissioner Letha Tawney. “Even as Oregon electric utilities invest billions to reduce wildfire risk, customers need to prepare for outages when fire danger is high. The changing risk of extreme wildfires touches every Oregon community and requires us all to take steps to reduce the risk of catastrophe.”

Resources to help every Oregonian get ready for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, where they can find tips on everything from staying informed about wildfire and wildfire-related outages to making a plan for evacuations to establishing defensible spaces that help slow the spread of wildfire.

PGE, Pacific Power and Idaho Power also share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.

Have a plan

• Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
• Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
• Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
• Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
• Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.

Make an outage kit

Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.

• Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.

• Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
• Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.

Stay informed

Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.

Information, resources and checklists

• PGE customers can visit portlandgeneral.com/wildfiresafety for information about how PGE works to protect people, property and public spaces.
• Pacific Power customers can visit pacificpower.net/wildfiresafety for resources and information including an outage preparation checklist for customers, an interactive map outlining public safety power shutoff areas.  
• Idaho Power customers can visit idahopower.com/wildfire to learn more about summer outage preparedness and what Idaho Power is doing to protect the grid from wildfires.   

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About Portland General Electric Company

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 950,000 customers serving an area of 1.9 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering social progress, delivering safe, affordable, reliable and increasingly clean electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE was ranked the No. 1 utility in the 2024 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index and is committed to reducing emissions from its retail power supply by 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2040. In 2024, PGE employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.5 million and volunteered nearly 23,000 hours to more than 480 nonprofit organizations. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

About Idaho Power

Idaho Power, headquartered in vibrant and fast-growing Boise, Idaho, has been a locally operated energy company since 1916. Today, it serves a 24,000-square-mile area in Idaho and Oregon. The company’s goal to provide 100% clean energy by 2045 builds on its long history as a clean-energy leader that provides reliable service at affordable prices. With 17 low-cost hydroelectric projects at the core of its diverse energy mix, Idaho Power’s residential, business and agricultural customers pay among the nation’s lowest prices for electricity. Its 2,100 employees proudly serve more than 650,000 customers with a culture of safety first, integrity always and respect for all. IDACORP Inc. (NYSE: IDA), Idaho Power’s independent publicly traded parent company, is also headquartered in Boise, Idaho. To learn more, visit idahopower.com or idacorpinc.com.

About the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
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. – Today, Clark County and partners celebrated the construction of a new community park with a groundbreaking ceremony. Curtin Creek Community Park, located in Brush Prairie, is expected to open to the community in spring 2026. Shoveling dirt to ceremonially begin construction were Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall, Clark County Parks Advisory Board Chair Jim Kautz, Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office Grant Manager Russell Marburg, and from Clark County Public Works, Project Manager Scott Sawyer, Parks and Nature Division Manager Ross Hoover, Deputy Director Jennifer Coker, and Parks and Trails Planner Lynde Wallick.

The property was purchased in 1999 via a partnership between the City of Vancouver and Clark County. Part of the property became the site of Vancouver Fire Station 7, and another portion was earmarked for a park. Sixteen acres is being developed into a new community park and the remainder will remain in a natural state as part of the Gaddis Wetlands Natural Area. The park’s development is funded through a combination of funds from the Metropolitan Park District Levy, REET II (Real Estate Excise Taxes) and a $850,000 grant for park development from Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office.

In 2019 an extensive public engagement process asked neighbors, community organizations and sports groups to help develop a park plan for this property. Clark County Council adopted the park plan in 2021. This first phase of development will include a large community play area with public art, reservable picnic shelter, trails with viewpoints of the Gaddis Wetlands and Mount Hood, four lighted pickleball courts, a basketball/futsal court and the county’s first lighted multi-sport/rugby field.

Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2025 with the park opening to the public in spring 2026. More information about the project and updates can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/curtin-creek-community-park.

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 next Clark County Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am Thursday, May 8, 2025, in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Room 243.

Pursuant to RCW 42.30.030(2), which encourages public agencies to provide for public access to meetings, this meeting can also be viewed via Teams or joined telephonically.

• Dial-in number: 1-213-262-7043
• Phone ID: 243 552 567#
• Meeting ID: 224 344 627 763
• Passcode: Ur6re6BA
• Join online here.

See the agenda for the meeting on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/treasurer/investment-reports-meetings.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is partnering with Washington State Department of Ecology on a campaign that aims to make the use of reusable beverage containers a cultural norm.

The Bring Your Own Cup campaign launches statewide on May 5 and runs through May 31. The campaign encourages residents to reduce waste from single-use cups by instead opting for reusable beverage containers. Americans use nearly one trillion disposable food service items each year, according to the Department of Ecology. Reusable cups, over the course of their lifecycle, have lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to disposable alternatives. 

As part of the campaign, residents are encouraged to “take the pledge” and choose reusable cups. Residents can visit www.BringYourCupWA.org to submit their online pledge and find coffee shops that allow customers to use personal cups. The Department of Ecology will hold gift card raffles weekly throughout the campaign for pledge participants.

Communities experience many benefits by embracing reusable beverage containers: 

• Cost savings: Reusable beverage containers have a positive economic benefit for both businesses and customers. Some businesses may offer customers a discount on the cost of the beverage when a reusable container is used.  

• Environmental sustainability: Residents can contribute to a greener future by refusing to use disposables that end up in the landfill.   

• Protection of habitat lands and waterways: Utilizing reusable beverage containers helps prevent litter from ending up on the streets, in storm drains, and in rivers and lakes. 

In Clark County, disposable hot or cold beverage cups, lids and straws cannot be recycled in the curbside recycle cart. These items should be put in the trash. Learn more about what can and cannot be recycled at www.RecyclingA-Z.com or by downloading the RecycleRight app.

Follow Clark County Green Neighbors on Facebook (@ClarkCountyGreenNeighbors) and Instagram (@clarkgreenneighbors) for more information about sustainable living in Clark County.  

When: 10 a.m., Friday, May 2, 2025 

Where: Curtin Creek Community Park (12603 NE 72^nd Ave)           

What: The Parks and Nature division of Clark County Public Works is hosting a groundbreaking event to celebrate the start of construction of Curtin Creek Community Park located in the greater Brush Prairie area.  

At 10 a.m., speakers from Clark County, the City of Vancouver and the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office will speak about the history of the park’s development, made possible by a partnership with the City of Vancouver to purchase the property. Park development partners will ceremonially break ground to kick off construction.

Participants may park at Vancouver Fire Station 7 (12603 NE 72^nd Ave). Parking is very limited so attendees are strongly encouraged to carpool. The parking area at Glennwood Community Church (12201 NE 72^nd Ave) may be used as a carpool meeting point. The event location is on an undeveloped site with uneven terrain. Please wear close-toed shoes.   

Media partners planning to attend are strongly encouraged to RSVP to Kaley McLachlan-Burton, Public Works PIO and Community Engagement manager, at urton@clark.wa.gov">kaley.mclachlan-burton@clark.wa.gov.

Why: Curtin Creek Community Park will be a new 16-acre park in the greater Brush Prairie area featuring a large community play area with public art, reservable picnic shelter, trails with viewpoints of the Gaddis Wetlands and Mount Hood, four lighted pickleball courts, a basketball/futsal court and the county’s first lighted multi-sport/rugby field.

In 1999 in a joint purchase with the City of Vancouver, the county purchased a 39-acre parcel for future development of a fire station (Vancouver Fire Station 7) and a county park. Sixteen acres is being developed into a new community park and the remainder will remain in a natural state as part of the Gaddis Wetlands Natural Area.

The park’s development is funded through a combination of funds from the Metropolitan Park District Levy, REET II (Real Estate Excise Taxes) and an $850,000 grant for park development from Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office.

In 2019 an extensive public engagement process was conducted with local neighbors, organizations and sports groups to help develop a park plan for this property. Clark County Council adopted the park plan in 2021.

Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2025 with the park opening to the public in spring 2026.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for a volunteer position on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission.

The council is accepting applications for the position representing Southwest Clark County. Applicants for this position must live south of 179th Street and west of State Highway 503 or the extension thereof. The council will appoint the selected applicant to serve a three-year term that begins July 1, 2025.

The Solid Waste Advisory Commission holds quarterly meetings at 6 pm on the first Thursday of February, May, August, and November. Special meetings maybe scheduled as needed. Meetings are currently held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual options.

The commission advises the county council and staff on solid waste issues and planning for recycling, garbage collection, landfills, transfer stations and waste-reduction programs. The advisory commission also provides feedback to staff during the update process for the county’s Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan, which is currently underway. Once the update is completed by staff, in coordination with the advisory commission, it will be submitted for approval by the county council and the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Residents with a passion for waste reduction, education and outreach experience, or experience with multifamily housing are encouraged to apply. As Clark County is a growing and diverse community with many languages and backgrounds, the county is also looking for people who can bring ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group. The commission is committed to inclusiveness and outreach to all Clark County residents to ensure the Solid Waste Advisory Commission reflects the community it serves.

Candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

The letter of interest should include:

• How you can represent the interests of the position on the commission
• Your personal or professional experience
• Your vision for the future of solid waste management in Clark County

The application deadline is 5 pm Friday, May 30, 2025.

Visit the Solid Waste Advisory Commission website for more information or mail Solidwaste@clark.wa.gov. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is seeking applicants for an open volunteer park host position at Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach. Volunteer park hosts live at their assigned park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. This popular 75-acre site includes 3.1 miles of easy trail that runs along a dike paralleling the Columbia River and features spectacular views of Mount Hood, along with beach and water access at Cottonwood Beach, restrooms, historic interpretive elements and reservable picnic shelters. 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 Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach 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. – Clark County is seeking applicants for two seats on the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission. The three-year terms will begin on July 1, 2025. The seats will be appointed by the Clark County Council.

The seven-member volunteer commission is responsible for:

• Reviewing nominations to the National Register of Historic Places
• Reviewing nominations and designating properties to the Clark County Heritage Register
• Conducting design review for changes to buildings and sites on the local register
• Reviewing and deciding applications for the Special Valuation Tax Incentive for historic properties
• Overseeing education and outreach.

The commission typically meets at 6 pm the first Wednesday of each month at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St, Vancouver, Washington. Meetings are currently conducted in a hybrid format via Webex and in person.

The county is looking for people who can bring:

• Interest, experience, or knowledge in history; historic preservation, rehabilitation or restoration; architecture or related disciplines such as planning, American studies or cultural anthropology, archaeology, or geography
• Ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group; and
• Outstanding strategic communication and public speaking skills and experience meeting with a wide range of individuals and organizations

All applicants must be available for an interview with a committee of current Historic Preservation Commissioners. A follow-up interview with the City of Vancouver or Clark County Council may be required.

To apply, submit a letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager's Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

The application deadline is 5 pm Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

For more information about the commission and the Historic Preservation program, please visit www.clark.wa.gov/planning/historic.

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The Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Employee Awards. These awards recognize BGPD personnel—including sworn officers and professional staff—who have demonstrated exceptional service, professionalism and a significant contribution to the department over the past year.

“The Battle Ground Police Department is fortunate to have a team of individuals who are deeply committed to serving our community,” shared Chief Dennis Flynn.  “It is our privilege to recognize their contributions and celebrate the extraordinary impact they make through their dedication and compassion.”

Life Saving Medal - Officer Chris Pagaduan and Lieutenant Jason Perdue

On November 2, 2024, Officer Chris Pagaduan was dispatched to a call involving a 70-year-old female who was unconscious, not breathing, and had just gone into cardiac arrest. Demonstrating exceptional urgency and preparedness, Officer Pagaduan arrived on-scene just one minute and 48 seconds after being dispatched and immediately began administering CPR.  When medical personnel arrived at the scene Officer Pagaduan transitioned to assist with their continued treatment of the patient.  Together they were able to successfully resuscitate the patient, who was then transported to a local hospital.  Officer Pagaduan’s readiness to take immediate action undoubtedly made the difference in a life-or-death situation. 

On the evening of August 31, 2024, Lieutenant Jason Perdue was dining with his family at a restaurant in Blaine, Washington.  While enjoying his meal, he observed an elderly woman at a nearby table suddenly fall into visible medical distress.  It quickly became apparent that she was choking and unable to breathe.  Without hesitation, and despite being off-duty, Lt. Perdue immediately sprang into action.  He performed the Heimlich maneuver, a critical intervention that successfully cleared the woman’s airway.  At the same time, he ensured that emergency services were contacted and coordinated care until paramedics arrived.  Lt. Perdue’s decisive actions saved the woman’s life and exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the law enforcement values to protect and serve—on or off the clock.

Commendation Medal

Several members of the Battle Ground Police Department were presented with Commendation Medals in recognition of their outstanding performance on calls, investigations, and department projects.  The honorees include:

• Sally McKerney, Parking Enforcement Officer

• Emily Cain, Police Support Specialist

• Kayla Whitmire, Police Support Specialist

• Katrina Green, Police Support Manager

• Lieutenant Jim Keller

• Officer Chris Pagaduan

Service Recognition – Officer John Gaves — 25 Years of Service

Officer of the Year – Detective Ethan Poki

Detective Ethan Poki was named the Battle Ground Police Officer of the Year, a distinction awarded by his peers in recognition of his exceptional contributions throughout the year.

Detective Poki was nominated, in part, for his demonstration of ‘service before self.’  In early 2024, the Detective Unit welcomed two new investigators and, as the senior detective, Poki prioritized ensuring their success by coordinating training and providing case briefings of the present caseload.  Meanwhile, the patrol unit was facing staffing constraints due to military leave and officer injuries.  Detective Poki volunteered to adjust his schedule to alleviate the burden on his fellow officers and to ensure proper coverage for our community.

It is for his dedication to service and exemplary leadership that the Battle Ground Police Department proudly named Detective Ethan Poki the 2024 Officer of the Year.

Honoring Service­­­ — Prioritizing Officer Wellness

Police Chief Dennis Flynn closed the April 30^th ceremony by expressing deep appreciation for the department’s sworn and professional staff, as well as the families who support them.  He acknowledged the vital role families play in the success of their loved ones and emphasized the importance of officer wellness, reminding all in attendance of the physical and emotional challenges faced in law enforcement and strongly urged officers to prioritize care for themselves and each other.   

Chief Flynn concluded by sharing his sincere thanks to all who serve and support the mission to keep Battle Ground safe.

For more information on this year’s award recipients and to view the Battle Ground Police Department’s 2024 Annual Report, please visit www.cityofbg.org/Police.

The City of Battle Ground recently completed a community survey aimed at gathering feedback from residents about the quality and effectiveness of City programs and services.  Residents from across the City shared their perspectives on a wide range of municipal initiatives and service areas that will be used to inform future policy decisions, improve resource allocation, and enhance the overall responsiveness of City operations.

The five-page survey, conducted by ETC Institute, was mailed to a random sample of households throughout the City of Battle Ground in January 2025.  More than 400 residents participated in the survey, offering valuable input on areas such as public safety, parks and recreation, transportation, housing, public works, and customer service.

Key findings from the survey include:

• Top-rated city service areas - Residents gave the highest marks to:

  • Quality of police services, 72% satisfaction

  • Quality of sewer services, 64% satisfaction

  • Quality of customer service, 63% satisfaction

  •  

• Priorities for Investment:

  • Overall maintenance of City streets

  • Effectiveness of economic development efforts

Additionally, the survey participants shared a strong interest in investing in a pool or aquatic center (67%) and new pathways and walking trails (66%) as top priorities.   

“This survey is a valuable tool for understanding how residents experience City services and where we can improve,” said Rob Ferrier, Deputy City Manager.  “We are committed to using this feedback to guide our strategic planning, aligned with the needs and priorities of our residents.”

The Battle Ground City Council extends its sincere thanks to every resident who engaged in the survey.  The City is truly grateful for residents’ time, insights and ongoing partnership in helping shape a stronger more vibrant Battle Ground.

A full report of the survey results is available at www.cityofbg.org/CitySurvey.

The Dallas Urban Renewal Agency is pleased to announce that the Building Improvement Grant Program (BIG) will be returning for the 2025/2026 Fiscal Year.

The Urban Renewal Agency created the Building Improvement Grant program to carry out the goals and objectives outlined in the Dallas Downtown Urban Renewal Plan. The Agency made significant changes to the program to help facilitate targeted investments in the downtown area. In the 2024/2025 fiscal year, the program was successful in garnering $9 of private investment for every $1 spent by the agency. Applicants for this year’s grant cycle will be eligible for up to $25,000 for their projects.

Applications for the program will open on April 30th, and applicants will have six weeks to submit an application. Each application will be scored based on a rubric provided during the application process and be presented to the agency for approval.

Economic and Community Development Director, Charlie Mitchell, stated, “We are happy to be able to bring this program back and continue to invest in projects that will add to the economic vitality of downtown Dallas".

All projects must have the permission of the building owner and must be located in the Downtown Urban Renewal District. To view the full guidelines and application for this project, please visit: https://www.dallasor.gov/ecd/page/urban-renewal-grants

Those with questions can contact Economic Development Specialist, Tyler Ferrari at tyler.ferrari@dallasor.gov or by calling 503-831-3579

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– Quandrae Gentle of Exotic Eggrollz, and Greg Silva and Shaye Nelson of Paradise Grindz, were unanimously chosen by a community panel to be the next entrepreneurs in Tigard’s Launch Pods, the city’s food-focused business accelerator. This business support program assists entrepreneurs by reducing start-up barriers and providing a business support network. They will celebrate their business launch along with the opening of the 2025 Tigard Farmer’s Market on May 4th . In 2022, Tigard purchased and outfitted two food carts with support from an AARP Community Challenge grant. Each cart is equipped as a class IV kitchen to support on-site food prep. These carts host food-focused businesses and are located at Universal Plaza in downtown Tigard. Exotic Eggrollz will be serving up unique foods made into eggrolls (mac and cheese, pulled pork, chicken and waffles) along with wings and classic spring rolls. Paradise Grindz will serve authentic Hawaiian comfort foods. “I’m eager to build my business while participating in the community,” said Gentle. “We’re looking forward to spreading aloha in Tigard!” said Silva. “We’re really happy to have these two innovative entrepreneurs join the Launch Pod” said Danelle Hauther, the City of Tigard’s Economic Development Manager. This program assists early phase food industry entrepreneurs as they start a business in Tigard with access to resources, business advising from Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon (MESO) and a marketplace of customers. After 16 to 24 months, the businesses will move on to the next phase, for example a brick-and-mortar restaurant. The process then repeats, with new entrepreneurs selected for the Launch Pod to help start more food businesses. The Launch Pod and Universal Plaza are located in the heart of downtown Tigard at 9100 Burnham St., 97223. You can learn more about the Launch Pod Business Accelerator program at https://www.tigard-or.gov/business-development/launch-pod

TUALATIN, OR — The City of Tualatin is pleased to announce the appointment of Aquilla Hurd-Ravich as its new Community Development Director. In this role, she will oversee the City's Planning, Building, Engineering, Economic Development, and Urban Renewal programs, and serve as a member of Tualatin’s Executive Management Team. Hurd-Ravich’s first day was April 28, 2025.
 

This appointment marks a return to Tualatin for Hurd-Ravich, who previously served in the same position from March 2018 to October 2020. She originally joined the City as a Senior Planner in 2007 and was promoted to Planning Manager in 2010, a role she held for eight years.
 

Since November 2021, Hurd-Ravich has served as the Community Development Director for the City of Oregon City. There, she led numerous impactful initiatives, including the adoption of the OC2040 Comprehensive Plan, code updates for middle housing and emergency shelters, and the implementation of Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities standards. She also played a key role in revising development codes, facilitating Development Review Summits, and helping secure a Metro grant to support strategic planning for industrial area development.
 

“I am thrilled to have Aquilla stepping into this important role in Tualatin,” said Sherilyn Lombos, Tualatin City Manager. “In addition to her solid technical expertise, Aquilla is known for her collaborative spirit, dedication to public service, and commitment to community engagement.”
 

The City also extends its sincere thanks to Steve Koper for his leadership and service as Interim Community Development Director during the transition. His dedication and teamwork have been instrumental in maintaining the department’s high standards of service.
 

For more information about the City of Tualatin, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov.

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Vancouver, Wash. – On Monday, May 5, Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle will proclaim the month of May “Small Business Month” in Vancouver. The designation coincides with National Small Business Month.

“Small businesses make up over 95 percent of Vancouver’s business community. They are the heart and soul of our local economy,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “Small Business Month is a chance to recognize and support the entrepreneurs who fuel our city with their talent, dedication and drive, and who add to what makes our city unique and full of charm.”

On Thursday, May 15 the City, in partnership with Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries and Fourth Plain Community Commons, will host Connect and Navigate, a free small business fair to connect entrepreneurs and small businesses with local funding and assistance to start and grow as a business in Vancouver. This event will feature 15 vendors and will take place from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Fourth Plain Community Commons, 3101 E. Fourth Plain Blvd., Suite 101.

Throughout the month of May, the City will share ways for the community to support Vancouver’s small businesses, preview plans to bolster the City’s support of a diverse and thriving small business community through its 5-Year Economic Development Strategy and more.

“As part of our Economic Development Strategy, we’re creating new pathways for small business success by investing in neighborhood business districts, leveraging public assets for affordable commercial space, expanding access to capital and connecting historically underserved entrepreneurs to City contracts and targeted support,” said Chris Harder, deputy economic development director for the city.

The City is committed to supporting the growth of its small business community by removing barriers to success and bolstering a thriving local economy through programs such as:

• Free small business advising: The City has partnered with the Small Business Administration and the Small Business Development Center to support business owners through free and confidential, one-hour business advising sessions with a certified business advisor once a month from May – December
• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): The CDBG program has allowed the City to award funding to support 971 small businesses through culturally specific workshops, one-on-one specialized business consulting and more since 2019. The City will provide an estimated $300,000 for additional business assistance this year
• Procurement: An interactive website invites businesses to submit bids, quotes and proposals to fulfill the City’s needs for goods, services, construction/public improvement projects, and professional/technical assistance
• Restaurant Start-Up Guide: A simple eight-step guide detailing what permits, licensing, plans and inspections are needed before opening a restaurant within City limits
• Pre-lease program: The City offers free advisory meetings to support business owners who want to buy or lease commercial space and for food truck vendors seeking to open in Vancouver City limits  
• Economic development: The City prioritizes the success and retention of small, local businesses as part of all major development and redevelopment projects, including Waterfront Gateway, the Heights District, Main Street Promise and the Fourth Plain for All investment strategy

Follow the hashtag #CouveSmallBiz and visit the City on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to watch, learn and stay informed. Explore more services, business education and grants, low-cost loans and other business funding options through the City’s Business Resources page.

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Stroll Washington Park’s new promenade with Portland’s favorite water drop and get a special insider’s look at this marvel of modern engineering  

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.

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

Where:            Washington Park Upper Reflecting Pool and Main Plaza

“This project helps cement Washington Park as one of the city’s crown jewel destinations. The park’s 3.5 million annual visitors from around the world will be able to experience the new public space,” said Deputy City Administrator for Public Works Priya Dhanapal. “The reservoir is a prime example of thoughtful planning, deliberate placemaking, and critical investments in the future of Portland.”

Full schedule to follow!

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 April 30, 2025, a Marion County jury found Jessica Lee Pemberton, 38, guilty of one count of Assault in the Second Degree and one count of Violating a Court’s Stalking Protective Order.

The charges resulted from a September 4, 2022, incident where Pemberton intentionally struck another woman with her car. At the time of the incident, the victim had a court’s stalking protective order against her. The victim sustained bruising on her torso and an injury to her wrist.  She ultimately recovered.  

Marion County Circuit Court Judge Lindsay Partridge presided over the two day trial. The State was represented by Marion County Deputy District Attorney Mae D’Amico.

Pemberton is scheduled to be sentenced on May 14, 2025, at 1pm. 

On April 29, 2025, a Marion County jury found Brandi Lea Cortes, 41, guilty of two counts of Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, one count of Assault of a Public Safety Officer, one count of Attempted Assault of a Public Safety Officer, and two counts of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Police Officer.

The charges result from a July 28, 2024, incident where Cortes eluded law enforcement and attempted to stab two Keizer police officers with a knife upon her arrest.   Officers Jeremie Fletcher and Cody Stupfel were wearing ballistics vests during the incident and were ultimately not injured by Cortes' knife; however, Officer Fletcher susteained a sprained wrist effectuating her arrest.

Marion County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Tracy Prall presided over the two day trial. The State was represented by Marion County Deputy District Attorneys Braden Wolf and Sarah Meyer.

Cortes is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2025, at 11am. 

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Press Release                                                             For Immediate Release

 

May 1, 2025

 

Case # 23CR49895

 

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County jury convicted Geoffrey Edward Hammond today on charges of Murder in the second degree for killing Ryan Martin and Attempted Murder in the second degree for shooting Sam Gomez. The incident that happened in downtown Portland on October 11, 2023.

 

This was the second trial on the murder and attempted murder charges. In December of 2024, a different jury convicted Hammond of Assault in the first degree with a firearm and two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a firearm, but it was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the charges of Murder in the second degree and Attempted Murder in the second degree. 

 

Brad Kalbaugh prosecuted both trials for the state - first as a deputy district attorney for Multnomah County and then as a special deputy district attorney from the Oregon Deparment of Justice where he is currently employed. 

 

After the guilty verdicts, Kalbaugh said “The Martin family finally has found justice. Nothing Sam Gomez or Ryan Martin did that day warranted Hammond’s deadly reaction.”
 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detective Ryane Foote for his excellent work on this case. We’d also like to thank Dr. Brandon Maughan of OHSU. Finally, thanks to MCDA Victim Advocate Allison Miller for the kindness and compassion they poured into the victims in this case.

 

THE FACTS:

 

According to an Affidavit of Probable Cause and witness testimony at trial, the incident began October 11, 2023 at 4:30pm. Hammond was driving a black Mercedes Benz for Uber and was stopped in front of the Moxy Hotel on SW Alder, partially blocking a lane of traffic at rush hour. Ryan Martin was driving a Toyota Tundra and was directly behind Hammond and was headed home to watch his daughter’s soccer game. Martin said something out the window to Hammond as his truck squeezed by Hammond’s car, and Hammond responded by giving him the middle finger. Martin quickly stopped his truck on the other side of the intersection and walked back to confront Hammond who had secretly begun loading a firearm. Within 1 second of Martin reaching the driver’s side window of the Mercedes Benz, Hammond rolled down the window and immediately shot Martin in the chest at close range The bullet narrowly missed his heart but pierced his left lung and his spine before exiting out the opposite side of his body and shattering a window at the Moxy hotel. Martin fell to the ground and landed on his back, unable to move. Hammond tried to shoot him a second time but the gun malfunctioned. Witnesses described watching Hammond try to fix his gun while saying, “You’re lucky I didn't shoot you in the heart.” Video shows more than 2 full minutes passed while Martin lay in the street dying next to the defendant's car while Hammond did nothing to help. 

 

As this was happening, Sam Gomez stumbled upon the scene. Gomez was attending a conference of the National Organization of Minority Architects at a nearby hotel. He saw Martin on the ground and Hammond seated in his car with a gun in his hand. Gomez held up his cell phone to take a picture of what he was seeing and was immediately shot in the leg by Hammond, who slowly drove away. In a phone call to 911 Hammond admitted to shooting both men and said he felt justified in doing so because Martin menaced him and because Gomez might have had a weapon. Gomez had been holding a cup of coffee and his cell phone.  Both Gomez and Martin were unarmed. 

 

Hammond faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years for the murder conviction. 

 

He is scheduled to be sentenced Jun 6, 2025 at 1:30pm by Judge Jenna Plank. 

 

                                          ###MCDA###

April 29, 2025                                                        PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CASE # 25CR22886

A Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted Jeremiah Allen Morgan (DOB 8/31/1982) on April 24, 2025 for multiple commercial burglaries committed in the Portland metropolitan area in February and March of 2025.

Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia filed an Affidavit of Probable Cause, which states the Portland Police Bureau continues to investigate a number of commercial burglaries that have occurred in Portland since July 2024.  Video surveillance shows the burglaries are committed by an organized crime ring that targets restaurants, bars, lounges, and other commercial spaces.  Portland Police Bureau Acting Detective Consider Vosu has positively identified Morgan as one of the ten subjects involved in this crime ring.

The Affidavit of Probable Cause details burglaries alleged to have been committed by Morgan at Burger King, Victorico’s Mexican Food, TPK Brewing, and The Daily Planet.

Morgan is currently in custody out-of-state.

Defendants are innocent until proven guilty in court.

                                                                                                       ###MCDA###

4/29/25                                                                                                PRESS RELEASE

Case # 25CR21699

On April 18, 2025, A Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted Tyler William Long, (DOB 08/08/1992) on multiple charges including Burglary in the First Degree. Long is accused of breaking into vacant storefronts sharing walls with businesses he intended to target, then sawing through the interior wall separating the storefronts to gain access to valuable merchandise. 

Long was arraigned on April 25, 2025.

Prosecutor Andrew MacMillan filed notice with the court that the state would be asking for an upward departure in sentencing if the defendant is found guilty. 

Find the Affidavit of Probable Cause to Support Continued Detention of Defendant is attached.

All defendants are innocent until proven guilty. 

                                                                        ###MCDA###

 

April 27, 2025

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Judge Andrew Lavin followed the State and victim’s family recommendation and sentenced Frederick Deatric Moore to 17.5 years in prison on April 25, 2025. 

He’ll serve 10 years for Manslaughter in the First Degree and another 7.5 years for Attempted Manslaughter in the Second Degree.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney isten.kyle-castelli@mcda.us" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Kristen Kyle-Castelli said: “I am grateful that Judge Lavin imposed the maximum sentence allowed by law and recognized the impact Moore’s action had on both victims in this case.”

Below is our earlier release from Moore’s conviction which has more context.

GUILTY VERDICT IN TRIAL OF MAN CHARGED WITH INTENTIONALLY RUNNING DOWN A PEDESTRIAN WITH HIS TRUCK NEAR EASTPORT PLAZA.

3/13/25

A Multnomah County jury today convicted Frederick Moore on multiple charges connected to the death of a pedestrian on June 6, 2022. 

The jury convicted Moore of Manslaughter in the First Degree, Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver- in this count an injury was involved,  Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Attempted Assault in the First Degree and Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver- in this count property damage was involved.

THE FACTS:

On June 6, 2022, Vincent Timothy was walking northbound on SE 82nd Street. Frederick

Moore had already turned into the parking lot of Eastport Plaza. When Timothy emerged from behind some buildings, Moore moved his vehicle onto SE Center St and waited about 30 feet behind the stop sign. As Timothy began walking on the sidewalk near the truck, Moore quickly accelerated and struck Timothy, who was dragged under Moore’s GMC Canyon. Timothy sustained significant injuries. Moore continued to drive across the street, conducted a U-turn and returned now facing eastbound. Witness Todd Henderson saw the incident and began yelling at the driver that he had killed the man. Moore then accelerated and aimed the truck at Henderson. Henderson jumped out of the way, but his bicycle was run over by Moore’s truck. Moore conducted another U-Turn and exited his truck.  A citizen followed Moore’s vehicle and the license plate was relayed to 911. 

Portland Police Bureau Detectives quickly learned that the suspect vehicle was registered to Moore’s wife.  Detectives executed a search warrant on June 7, 2022 to seize the suspect truck.  Detectives noticed damage that corresponded to evidence left at the scene.  

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Kristen Kyle-Castelli prosecuted the case for the state.

“It was an incredibly violent act– hitting someone with your truck then aiming for a witness who shouted at you, is shocking. We still don't have a reason for why this happened. It leaves the family with a lot of questions. The fact that he is already a convicted murderer whose sentence ended in 2018, just four years before this incident is astounding,” said Kyle-Castelli.

“This is incredibly tragic. The deceased victim’s family is kind. The victim that survived was dedicated to seeing justice for the deceased man he did not know. I hope these convictions give them some level of closure,” Kyle-Castelli said. 

The District Attorney’s office would like to thank DA Investigator Colby Painter, DA Investigator Kirk Tonkin, and, DA Victim’s Advocate Allison Miller who did a phenomenal job helping the family during this difficult time.  The District Attorney’s Office would also like to thank Portland Police Bureau Detective Eric McDaniel, who remained dedicated to seeking justice for the victims in this case.

Frederick Moore is in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced April 25, 2025 at 9am.

He faces a minimum of 10 years in prison.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On January 23, 2025, a Washington County jury found David James Kozak guilty of attempted murder in the second degree constituting domestic violence, assault in the first degree constituting domestic violence, arson in the first degree (three counts), unlawful use of a weapon, criminal mischief in the first degree (three counts), and animal abuse in the first degree (three counts). On April 24, 2025, Judge Theodore Sims sentenced the defendant to 245 months in prison and ordered him to pay more than $719,000 in restitution. Deputy District Attorneys Mark Richman and Mackenna Krohn prosecuted this case.
 

The victim and defendant were dating at the time and living together at an apartment in the Raleigh Hills area. On February 22, 2023, the two got into an argument. The defendant attacked the victim with a butcher knife and stabbed her multiple times in the neck, head, and shoulder. She was able to escape, and she fled to a neighbor’s apartment, where she reported that the defendant stabbed her. She then passed out from her wounds. The neighbors called 911, and deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded. The victim was in and out of consciousness as she was rushed to the hospital. She told first responders the defendant stabbed her and tried to light the apartment on fire.
 

Responding deputies saw the fire and attempted to extinguish it. The fire reignited and eventually destroyed the apartment building. Eight residents were displaced, and three pet cats were killed. Deputies found two lighters on the defendant when he was arrested.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in apprehending the defendant and investigating the case. This office also thanks Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue for their work.
 

In addition to his prison sentence, the Court also ordered the defendant to have no contact with the victims in this case, to serve three years of post-prison supervision upon his release, and barred him from owning any pets for a period of five years. 

Angel Garibay to Represent Oregon at National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta

Salem, Ore., April 28, 2025  — Angel Garibay, a Diesel Technology student at Chemeketa Community College’s Brooks Campus, has earned first place at the 2025 SkillsUSA State Championship, held April 11–12 at the Knife River Training Center in Albany, Oregon. The event drew Oregon’s most talented technical education students and highlighted the very best in career and technical education statewide.

Garibay led a clean sweep for Chemeketa, with teammates Joel Ropp securing second place and David Tribbett taking third.
 

Mastering the Mechanics—and More

The Diesel Technology competition tested students across a broad range of industry-critical skills, including engine diagnostics, electrical systems, brake and air systems, and hydraulics. Competitors demonstrated their abilities to tackle real-world challenges faced daily by diesel technicians.

In addition to technical tasks, students participated in a professional mock job interview, where they were evaluated on communication skills, professionalism, and problem-solving abilities—underscoring the importance of both technical expertise and soft skills in today's workforce.

Built on Strong Training Programs

Garibay’s success reflects the strength of Oregon’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which emphasize hands-on, industry-relevant experience. His training at Chemeketa Community College’s Brooks campus—known for its exceptional Diesel Technology program—equipped him with the practical knowledge and confidence necessary to excel in the competition and the workforce beyond.

From Albany to Atlanta

As Oregon’s top Diesel student, Garibay will advance to represent the state at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta this June, competing against the best students from across the country. His trip to the national stage is sponsored in part by AGCO, a leading agricultural equipment manufacturer, demonstrating the company’s commitment to workforce development and student success.

Powered by Community and Industry

The SkillsUSA Championship’s success would not have been possible without support from industry partners and local organizations. Companies including RDO Equipment Co., Penske Truck Leasing, United Rentals, and Daimler Trucks North America generously contributed equipment, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts to ensure a high-quality, impactful experience for every participant.

A Victory Beyond the Podium

Garibay’s achievement is more than a competition win—it demonstrates the power of hands-on education, strong community support, and industry partnership. As he prepares for the national competition, his journey serves as an inspiring example of how passion, preparation, and opportunity can build a rewarding career.

Chemeketa’s champion, representing the State of Oregon, is ready to take the national stage.  The future of the Diesel Technology industry is in capable hands.

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For more than 50 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 17,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

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

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery annual student art show runs May 13-June 5. An awards reception will be held May 13, noon-1 p.m., and guest judge Terry Blas will announce awarded works.

The exhibition showcases the finest artwork made by CCC students during the academic year in disciplines including painting, drawing, design, sculpture, ceramics, photography, digital design, video, jewelry making and more.

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

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

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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College invites students and community members to explore career opportunities in high-demand trades at the Industrial Technology Job Fair on Thursday, May 22, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Held in the Holden Industrial Technology Center, the event connects job seekers with local employers in industries such as manufacturing, welding, automotive, electrical and more. Attendees will have the chance to network with industry professionals, learn about different career paths, and discover available job openings.

Employers scheduled to participate include:

• Astronics-PECO

• Benchmade Knife Company

• Marks Brothers Inc.

• Microchip Technology

• Cornell Pump Company

• Samtec

• Paul Davis Restoration

The Industrial Technology Job Fair is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring copies of their resumes and be prepared to speak with employers about job opportunities.

“This event is a fantastic way for students and job seekers to meet directly with employers and explore career options in trades that are vital to our region’s economy,” said Tom Brown, career connected learning systems navigator at Clackamas Community College.

For more information, contact Brown at thomasb@clackamas.edu.

The job fair will take place at Clackamas Community College’s Oregon City campus, Holden Industrial Technology Center, 19600 Molalla Ave. Parking is free.

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OREGON CITY - The Clackamas Community College Board of Education passed a declaration of board vacancy during its April 16 regular meeting. The vacancy is in Zone 5, which covers West Linn and Wilsonville and was previously filled by Sen. Aaron Woods, who resigned from the position on April 2 and subsequently passed away on April 19.

CCC Board of Education members are elected to four-year terms and represent each of the seven zones in the college's service district. To meet the college district's needs, the board oversees the development of programs and services and the adoption of policies and the budget.

Sen. Woods joined the CCC Board of Education in 2020. While serving on the board, he was elected to the Oregon Senate in 2022. A U.S. Army veteran who began his career in strategic communications, he later spent more than two decades as a senior executive in Oregon’s tech industry. His leadership continued in civic life, including service on the Wilsonville Development and Review Board, the Planning Commission and the CCC Board of Education.

“Sen. Woods was a dedicated public servant, a tireless advocate for equity and opportunity, and a kind, thoughtful leader. During his time on our board, he brought wisdom, compassion and a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives. He was a champion for students, and he reminded us often — through both words and actions — of what it means to lead with purpose and integrity,” CCC President Dr. Tim Cook said.

Applications for the vacant position are being accepted until 5 p.m. on May 14. The new board member will take office upon appointment by the board and serve until June 30, 2027.

Applicants must be registered voters residing within Clackamas Community College Zone 5 boundaries and not be officers or employees of the college. Visit the CCC Board of Education webpage at www.clackamas.edu/about-us/leadership/board-of-education-documents for more information about the board, a map of the college district, and the application. For questions, contact Kattie Riggs at 503-594-3004 or kattie.riggs@clackamas.edu.

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OREGON CITY – In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, Clackamas Community College invites the public to a free screening of the documentary “Island Soldier.” This free event is hosted by the college’s Cougar Leadership, Education and Advocacy for Progress (LEAP) Office in collaboration with Veterans Services.

The screening will take place Tuesday, May 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the McLoughlin Auditorium on the Oregon City campus. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. Snacks and beverages will be available, and a raffle for prizes will be held at the end of the screening. The event is open to all members of the community, but registration is required. Register at https://bit.ly/island-soldier. 

Directed by Nathan Fitch, “Island Soldier” follows the personal stories of U.S. military service members from the Freely Associated States — the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Palau. These island nations are connected to the United States through the Compact of Free Association, granting citizens a unique non-immigrant status that allows them to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

“‘Island Soldier’ illustrates a larger story of a remote region whose interests are caught in the ever-changing tides of international politics… [It] asks challenging questions while offering viewers a unique perspective on a globalized world,” according to the film’s official website.

To learn more about the film, visit the official website or watch the trailer. Potential trigger warning to former military service members and veterans, as there are short clips of war.

For questions or more information about the event, contact CCC’s LEAP Office at  diversity@clackamas.edu. CCC’s Veterans Services can be reached at vetinfo@clackamas.edu. For ADA accommodations, contact the Disability Resource Center at 503-594-6357 or c@clackamas.edu" style="text-decoration-line: none;">drc@clackamas.edu.

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OREGON CITY – Writers of all levels are invited to gather inspiration, sharpen their skills and connect with fellow creatives at the annual Compose Creative Writing Conference on Saturday, May 17, hosted by the Clackamas Community College English Department.

This year's keynote speaker is Stephen Graham Jones, the New York Times-bestselling author of nearly 40 novels, short story collections, novellas and comic books, including “The Only Good Indians,” “My Heart is a Chainsaw,” “Mongrels,” “Earthdivers” and “I was a Teenage Slasher.” Jones is one of the most prolific authors in publishing and among its most decorated. He is a National Endowment for the Arts recipient and has won many awards for his fiction and graphic novels. He is the Ivena Baldwin Professor of English at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

In addition to the keynote address, the conference will feature a full day of workshops and panels, including:

• Panel discussion with Jones, Rene Denfeld and Terry Blas

• YES, AND keep writing: First draft as improv with Curtis Chen

• Writing and drawing: Starting a career in comics with Terry Blas

• Finding the enchanted: How to bring the poetic to your writing with Rene Denfeld

• Walking off the page: Crafting compelling characters with Rachel Attias

• Uncovering/recovering your story, your vision, your voice with Gina Ochsner

• Radical revision with Matthew Dickman

• Unwinding the line: Contemporary poetry and dissent with Jennifer Pons

Participants can customize their day by choosing sessions that best match their interests and creative goals.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, May 17

• Time: 10 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

• Location: Clackamas Community College, Oregon City campus

• Registration: $25 general admission | $10 CCC students

Register online at www.clackamas.edu/register-compose. For more information about the event, visit www.clackamas.edu/compose. To learn more about the college’s English Department and offerings, visit www.clackamas.edu/english. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

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Clark Scholars Recognized for Academic Excellence and Service

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Two Clark College honor students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievement and community service at the 28th annual All-Washington Academic Team ceremony on April 24 at South Puget Sound Community College in Lacey.

Seth Stigall Barranco and Anton Vlasov represented Clark College as members of the prestigious All-Washington Academic Team, a statewide program that honors high-achieving students from the state’s 34 community and technical colleges. The program is part of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges.

They joined more than 80 scholars from across Washington State who are pursuing transfer or workforce pathways and demonstrating excellence both in and out of the classroom. Each student received a medal and a $250 scholarship from Key Bank. They also are eligible for additional scholarships from private sponsors and transfer scholarships for four-year colleges and universities.

Seth Stigall Barranco 

Seth Stigall Barranco is a first-generation college student who wants to inspire his younger siblings to follow his path of graduating from college and pursuing an impactful career. At Clark he is a leader, helping to start a new club for video game design and organizing an event for MESA students and maintaining a 3.9 grade point average. After completing a summer internship at Oakridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, he will graduate from Clark College with an associate degree in computer and information sciences. In the fall he will join the first cohort of students in Clark’s new bachelor of science in computer science program. He has been named in the All-Washington Top 16. 

Anton Vlasov  

When Russian rockets leveled the apartment building next door, Anton Vlasov and his family left Ukraine to seek safety from the war. Building upon his work in the IT industry, Vlasov enrolled at Clark College. Vlasov, 40, maintains a 3.81 grade point average and will graduate with an associate's degree in computer and information sciences in June. Next, he plans to pursue a bachelor of applied science degree in cybersecurity at Clark with a goal of working as a cybersecurity analyst.  

About All-Washington Academic Team Program 

The All-Washington Academic Team is a program of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges. Sponsors of the All-Washington Academic Team program are Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges, Washington State Association of College Trustees, Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of two-year colleges. 

Scholarship sponsors are Key Bank ($250 awarded to every member); Washington State Employees Credit Union ($750 awarded to the top 16 members); and Washington State Association of College Trustees ($1,000 awarded to the top three team members). 

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 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.  

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SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Community College Foundation is reinventing a classic – its annual gala.

The PCC Foundation is debuting its reimagined signature event, "Together for Tomorrow," from 5:30-9 p.m, Saturday, May 17, at the Sylvania Campus, 12000 SW 49th Ave. Designed to reflect the heart of PCC’s mission and community, the event will raise funds for student scholarships while celebrating the transformative power of a PCC education. Tickets are $100 with proceeds supporting PCC student scholarships and parking will be free.

After years of hosting traditional fundraising galas, the PCC Foundation is embracing a new approach centered on connection, celebration and impact. “Together for Tomorrow” invites guests to enjoy a relaxed and vibrant evening on campus, featuring food, drinks and meaningful opportunities to connect. Entertainment includes music by DJ Aspen, who is a PCC student and spins for the Portland Timbers, Thorns and Trail Blazers.

“We wanted this event to reflect the values of our community: access, success, and a shared commitment to creating opportunity for PCC students,” said Executive Director of the PCC Foundation Christina Kline.

The PCC Foundation will present this event with longtime partner Comcast, which has supported the gala for the past six years and continues to invest in student and community success.

“At Comcast, we believe in the power of education and opportunity to transform lives, and we’re proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the PCC Foundation,” said Senior Director of Community Impact for Comcast Pacific NW Region Rebecca Brown. “We’re honored to be part of this meaningful event that helps create opportunity and builds a stronger future for our community.” 

The event will take place in Sylvania's Performing Arts Center courtyard. At 7 p.m., guests will move into the theater for a program highlighting stories from students and PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings, celebrating donors and community partners, and underscoring the vital role scholarships play in helping students thrive. The event will close with dessert and dancing.

To purchase tickets and learn more, visit https://www.pcc.edu/foundation/events/together-for-tomorrow/ 

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.

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Gresham-Barlow School District selects next principal of Gresham High School

Former Gresham High assistant principal returns to lead school

The Gresham-Barlow School District announced today that Aki Mori has been selected to be the next principal of Gresham High School. Mori currently serves as the principal of Raleigh Park Elementary in the Beaverton School District. He was also the principal at Beaverton’s McKinley Elementary. He has six years of experience serving as an assistant principal at the high school level, with three of those years at Gresham High.

"In Aki, we've found a leader whose comprehensive administrative expertise is matched by an exceptional talent for building bridges,” said Interim Superintendent John Koch.  “His commitment to understanding every individual, fostering growth, and cultivating strong relationships, coupled with his extensive experience in K-12 education, instills in me complete confidence. He's precisely the person to champion an inclusive environment where every student and each staff member can thrive."                                    

The school district used an extensive selection process to determine who should be GHS’s next principal. The district screened several candidates and selected an initial group to interview with district administrators. Finalists were then asked to engage with staff, students, and community members before meeting with the district’s executive leadership team. 

Gresham High School teacher Brad Cook was a part of the group of staff members who met with the candidates. He believes Mori is the right person to lead GHS into the future.

“He is a kind, humble, extremely intelligent individual,” said Cook. “He has a wealth of knowledge in all areas of education. He will be a pillar of this community.”                                                      

Before joining the administrative ranks, Mori taught at the middle school and high school levels in various special education roles. He earned his initial administrator's license from Concordia University. He has a master’s degree in special education from the University of California and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Georgetown University.

The son of immigrants, Mori values and understands the challenges of growing up in a multicultural and multilingual household. During his administrative career, he has worked to support students and families who may experience barriers to fully participating in a successful school life. 

Mori will begin serving as principal on July 1, 2025. Currently, Ted Zehr serves as the school’s interim principal.

The public, families and media are invited to tour the new early learning center this Saturday

HILLSBORO – The antkwak Early Learning Center will serve as a hub for early learning programs in Washington County, helping to meet the needs of our community’s youngest children and their families. Join us for the Name Dedication and Soft Opening of this state-of-the-art space and meet some of the families and children who receive services from our agency.

Event Details:

• 3030 NE Aloclek Drive, Hillsboro, OR 97124

• Saturday, May 3, 2025

• 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Schedule:

• 9:30 – 10 a.m. – Superintendent and Board remarks, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony (photo opportunity)

• 10 – 11:30 a.m. – Self-guided tours and fun, family-friendly activities

Activities will include:

• Free breakfast treats and juice

• “Leap the Lily Pads” discovery tour of the new center

• Music-making, dancing, carnival games and sensory activities suitable for all young children

• Playground showcase, including inclusive equipment for children with disabilities

• Families can connect with community partners, including Hillsboro Parks and Recreation’s Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation team and early childhood development specialists.

About the antkwak Early Learning Center

The 50,000 square-foot antkwak Early Learning Center features eleven classrooms and offers preschool, child care and early intervention programs. It is designed to meet a broad range of functional, sensory and physical needs for young children, especially those experiencing delays or disabilities. Thousands of children, ranging from birth to age five, will benefit annually from services and evaluations at this new center.

antkwak means frog in the Tualatin dialect of the Northern Kalapuya language and pays homage to Aloclek Drive, the street where the facility is located. We gratefully attribute the antkwak name, which is transcribed in lowercase, to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, including linguistic and historical experts.

Aloclek Drive was named by Mas Tomita, departed Epson Portland president who developed the area. He drew inspiration from a Tualatin word for bullfrog, though his source is unknown. In Tomita’s Japanese culture, there is a parable of a frog who struggles to leap higher and higher toward its goal. By never giving up, the frog eventually achieves success.

Beginning July 2025, families currently receiving services through the Hillsboro Early Childhood Center will transition to this new facility.

Learn more about this opportunity. 

Northwest Regional ESD is the largest of Oregon’s 19 education service districts. We serve students, educators, child care providers and families living in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties. Our staff members work collaboratively with school districts in the four counties we serve to deliver quality, cost-effective programs and services including special education, technology, professional development and school improvement. We also provide operational support such as business services and human resources.

The Battle Ground Public Schools District Art Show returns this month for its 66th year, bringing back the popular People’s Choice Award. Community members can vote for their favorite submission at each grade level (primary, middle and high) through Monday, May 12, at 8 a.m. Top selections will receive the People’s Choice Award at the May 27 board of directors meeting. Board meetings are open to the public and available to watch online.

“We are excited to show off the amazing talent of our students and the hard work of the district’s dedicated art teachers,” said Allison Tuchardt, the district’s director of curriculum, instruction and assessment and one of the organizers of the art show. “Having the artwork online allows family members from all over to see our students’ work and participate in the show. We’re excited to see whose work resonates with our community.”

Tuchardt is the daughter of the late Bob Peck. The longtime Battle Ground High School art teacher created the BGPS Art Show in 1959 along with Battle Ground city librarian Florence Rieck as a way for the community to enjoy the creativity of its students.

All grade levels are represented in the show in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, photography, 3D sculptures and digital art/video. Winning student-artists will be recognized in person at the May 27 school board meeting.

“Our community always looks forward to the art show and that is a feeling we share,” said incoming Superintendent Shelly Whitten. “Last year, more than 500 people voted for their favorite online, and that’s a testament to the popularity of this event even after so many years. It is our pleasure to support our amazing art students and teachers with this event.”

In addition to People’s Choice Awards, students will be eligible to receive the coveted Bob Peck Award, Superintendent Awards, Board’s Choice Awards, Best of Show and juried awards.

The public is invited to view students' art on the district website and choose their favorites for the People's Choice Award through the morning of May 12.

Please join us in celebrating the achievements of Ridgefield School District’s exceptional student artists! The RSD Art Show will be open to the public on Thursday, May 8th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ridgefield High School Performing Arts Center.
 

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

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

Drop by between 5:30 and 7:30 PM on Tuesday, May 8th, to see the incredible creativity of Ridgefield's young artists!

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 8th

• Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., drop in as desired

• Location: Ridgefield High School Performing Arts Center

The Washougal School Board announces the resignation of Board member Chuck Carpenter, effective June 30, 2025.  Carpenter has served on the school board since September 2020, representing district 5.

Carpenter said “As I look back, being a daily volunteer in our schools and having the opportunity to visit each of our schools every year has given me insight into the lives of students that has been invaluable to me as a school board member. I have been particularly impressed by the respect and courtesy shown by our students toward visitors – and each other. We have great kids and great schools!” 

Chuck brought extensive experience in education to his role, having served as a teacher, principal, human resources director, and superintendent. He drew on this background to thoughtfully guide his oversight of the district and support sound decision-making.

His passion for public education and unwavering support for our schools, staff, and students have been evident throughout his tenure. His experience, insight, and steadfast commitment to doing what’s best for our community have been invaluable.

Superintendent Aaron Hansen noted that Carpenter’s service to the community began before his service to the board. “Chuck has been an active and engaged community member, serving on boards and commissions, running community events, and volunteering in our schools for years, especially with youth serving organizations and in support of the arts in Washougal.”

After spending many hours in each school during board site visits and as a volunteer, Carpenter added, “...I have a renewed respect for the good work that is being done by students and staff every day.”

Board President Sadie McKenzie said, “Chuck will be deeply missed, and the board is sincerely grateful for the positive and lasting impact he has made.”

The Washougal School Board of Directors will follow their policy to fill the vacancy, and details about the process will be posted to the website and shared with the community once they are ready. 

The landmark project is the first major stadium to be constructed in the Portland metro area since the Moda Center three decades ago

Hillsboro, Ore. —The Hillsboro Hops today released three new architectural renderings, offering a new look at the team’s future home—an innovative stadium currently under construction and slated to open for the 2026 season. The team also unveiled a suite of transformative amenities that promise to significantly enhance both the fan experience and player facilities, setting a new standard for minor league baseball. The stadium is on track for completion in December 2025. Crews recently completed structural steelwork, and they have begun the enclosure as well as interior walls.

“This ballpark will be a regional centerpiece, where fans can enjoy the best experience in minor league baseball,” said K.L. Wombacher, President and General Manager of the Hillsboro Hops. “For players, it's a major league-quality facility that will be the best in baseball. For the region, it’s a year-round destination that will drive premier events and economic growth for decades to come.”

Exciting new amenities

Fans can look forward to a dramatically enhanced game-day experience, including a 360-degree wraparound concourse, a beer garden and a dedicated food hall with six dining options. The ballpark has been reoriented for the sun at the backs of fans, providing a fully shaded seating bowl. A 32-foot canopy will provide shelter from rain and sun, creating a comfortable, all-weather venue for baseball, concerts, festivals and community events.

The total seating capacity will be 6,000 for baseball games and up to 7,000 for concerts and other events. A new premium club level will include a climate-controlled 9,000 square foot lounge offering upscale views, chef-inspired food, padded high-back seats and multiple bars. The concourse level will offer a variety of seating options designed to accommodate every kind of fan, including:

• Padded club seats with extended leg room
• Four-tops that include swivel chairs and half-moon tables
• Family berm tickets for $8
• Infield and Homeplate suites offering private group experiences

The Hops’ new ballpark will have a state-of-the-art sound system and an LED video board that will be four times larger than the current display.

For players and coaches, the stadium is being built to meet Major League Baseball’s updated facility standards. New amenities include expanded clubhouses, dining areas, weight rooms, indoor batting tunnels with 16-foot ceilings and dedicated facilities for female players, coaches and umpires.

“The Hillsboro Hops’ new ballpark is a premier venue—not just for baseball, but for the entire region’s sports and event landscape,” said Jim Etzel, Chief Executive Officer of Sport Oregon. “It’s the kind of bold investment in infrastructure and experience that strengthens Oregon’s economy and reputation as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.”

Collaborative vision and funding

The new stadium is the result of a strong public-private partnership that reflects the region's commitment to sports, community and economic growth. The $150 million project is backed by private and public funding sources: The Hops' ownership group is contributing $112 million, the City of Hillsboro is contributing $18 million via lodging taxes, the Oregon Legislature has committed $15 million, Washington County is providing $8 million and Explore Tualatin Valley is contributing $2 million. The facility was designed by a team led by Populous and SRG.

Economic and community impact

Construction is projected to generate $190 million in local economic output, including almost 1,000 jobs, according to an ECONorthwest study. Once open, the ballpark is expected to contribute $64 million annually to the local economy, including 50 full-time, year-round jobs and 380 seasonal jobs that will pay about $20 million in wages.

About Hillsboro Hops

The Hillsboro Hops are the High-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. A three-time Northwest League champion (2014, 2015 and 2019), the Hops are known for delivering an exceptional fan experience, player development and deep community engagement. The Hops are currently building a new state-of-the-art stadium set to open for the 2026 season, which will serve as a year-round destination for sports, entertainment and community events in the Portland metro area. Learn more at www.hillsborohops.com or follow the team @HillsboroHops on Facebook, Instagram, X and Snapchat.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Camas Lions Club Joins Downtown Camas Cleanup Effort to Beautify the Community

Camas, WA – April 27, 2025 — The Camas Lions Club rolled up their sleeves and joined forces with the Downtown Camas Association this past Sunday for the annual Downtown Camas Cleanup event. With gloves on and tools in hand, club members showed up in full force, eager to help refresh and beautify the heart of Camas.

Throughout the morning, Lions volunteers worked hard pulling weeds, removing invasive ivy, trimming overgrown bushes, planting colorful flowers, and spreading fresh beauty bark across downtown spaces. Their efforts were part of a larger community initiative to prepare Camas for the busy spring and summer seasons, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy a vibrant and welcoming downtown environment.

“The Camas Lions are proud to support projects that make a visible difference in our community,” said Stephanie O'Dell, President of the Camas Lions Club. “We believe in the power of service, and it was inspiring to see so many volunteers come together to make downtown Camas shine.”

The Camas Lions Club has a long history of community involvement, and participation in events like the Downtown Camas Cleanup is just one way the club continues to live out its Lions International motto: “We Serve", and Camas Lions Annual President's theme: "Even Better Together."

For more information about the Camas Lions Club and upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit www.CamasLionsClub.org

Potential Cuts to Housing and Homeless Services Will Devastate Clark County

Thousands Could Lose Critical Support Through the Homeless Response System

VANCOUVER, WA (May 2, 2025) — In the coming days, the federal government is expected to release a budget proposal that includes significant cuts to many of the programs and services foundational to housing and homeless services across Clark County. In the face of these unprecedented federal funding cuts, Council for the Homeless has calculated the types and scale of services that could be lost with the reduction or elimination of federal funding for housing and homeless services in Clark County.  

The cuts would have a devastating impact on community members with low to very low incomes and remove over $50 million from the local economy. 

To illustrate the impact, Council for the Homeless analyzed the services provided, the number of people or households assisted, and the dollar value of the services during fiscal year 2023-24. Funding sources include: 

• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), a federal “pass through” program distributed by the City of Vancouver and Clark County through competitive grants. 

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) competitive grants. 

“It is important that taxpayers and policymakers are aware of how funds are allocated locally and the deep impact our community will experience if funding is eliminated,” said Sesany Fennie-Jones, chief executive officer of Council for the Homeless. 

An example of federal funding at work in Clark County includes $48 million for rent assistance for 3,548 low-income households. This includes short-term assistance and ongoing Section 8 rental vouchers. In many cases, this assistance makes the difference between remaining housed or falling into homelessness. These funds are paid directly to landlords and property management companies, contributing to the local economy. 

“We also know that if other safety net services are cut, the people receiving those services will become even more vulnerable and more likely to fall into homelessness,” Fennie-Jones continued. These services include early childhood education, Medicaid, emergency services such as fire response, and education and services for low-income students and their families. 

Council for the Homeless encourages community members to advocate with their elected officials and policymakers to oppose cuts to housing and homelessness services in Clark County. 

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

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
April 30, 2025

YOUNG LEADERS SHINE AT SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON'S NATIONAL CIVICS BEE

A Shahala Middle School student claimed first place in the competition, hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber on April 26.

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — Seventeen talented middle school students recently competed for the title of Southwest Washington's Civics Bee Champion during the state qualifying round, hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Washington Trust Bank. 

Held on April 26 at Vancouver’s historic Kiggins Theatre, the high-energy event showcased finalists representing Battle Ground, Camas, Evergreen, Hockinson, and Vancouver school districts, along with homeschool and private school programs. After an intense competition, Shreya Andey of Shahala Middle School emerged with the first place, earning the title of Southwest Washington Civics Bee Champion and a $500 cash prize. 

Modeled after traditional academic bees, the competition challenged students with a wide range of questions on U.S. government, history, politics, and constitutional law. Audience members joined the excitement through an interactive, real-time trivia game from their smartphones, creating an engaging experience for all. 

Following the first two 10-question rounds, the top five scorers advanced to a live interview segment, presenting their community improvement essays and answering questions from a distinguished panel of judges: Dr. Christine Moloney, Superintendent of Evergreen School District; Dr. John Anzalone, Superintendent of Camas School District; and Denny Waters, Superintendent of Battle Ground School District. Students addressed real-world issues such as pollution prevention, railroad safety, access to educational resources, and responsible gambling, demonstrating impressive critical thinking and leadership. 

Rye Dilley of Tukes Valley Middle School captured second place, winning a $250 prize, and Calista Christiansen earned third, receiving $125. 

“This is an amazing event! It gets kids excited about being part of their communities, the things they can do, and the power they have to make things better—not just for themselves, but for their families and communities,” said Dr. Christine Moloney. 

Next Stop: Statewide Competition in Olympia 

The top three Southwest Washington finalists will advance to the Washington State Civics Bee Finals, presented by the Association of Washington Business, on June 21 at Olympia High School. The state champion will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Civics Bee® championship this fall. Learn more at https://www.awbinstitute.org/project/national-civics-bee/.  

Investing in Future Leaders 

The National Civics Bee reflects the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s commitment to building informed, engaged citizens who will strengthen our economy and workforce. 

“For the Chamber, it’s important to ensure that our future workforce is prepared to think critically, solve problems, and lead,” said Janet Kenefsky, chief operating officer for the Chamber. “With 70% of Americans unable to pass a civic literacy test, the need for informed, engaged citizens is clear. They are essential to the strength of our country, the stability of our economy, and the success of our business community.” 

“Everything we do at the Chamber is focused on supporting business growth,” Kenefsky added. “When we invest in young people today, we’re helping build the entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators of tomorrow.” 

The 2025 National Civics Bee in Southwest Washington was presented by Washington Trust Bank, with additional support from Restoration 1 of Vancouver, Greenhaven Landscapes, and The Columbian. 

For more information about the National Civics Bee, visit VancouverUSA.com/nationalcivicsbee. Business leaders interested in sponsoring the 2026 event can contact the Chamber at Chamber@VancouverUSA.com" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89);" target="_blank">YourChamber@VancouverUSA.com. 

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About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local middle school students participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in our local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top three students from each local competition will advance to the state competition. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this competition was launched to tackle the lack of knowledge about history and civics among middle school students, exposed by new federal data on the Nation's Report Card. In 2022, the average civics score at eighth grade decreased by 2 points compared to 2018.   

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

Media Assets:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EE7VkkOrlfARQa-jUsEPbIKl2QXTk7-a  

Official Program Link:
National Civics Bee 

Washington State Civics Bee Competition:
https://www.awbinstitute.org/project/national-civics-bee/  

Nation’s Report Card:
NAEP Report Card: 2022 NAEP Civics Assessment 

EVENT PRESS RELEASE  
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
APRIL 29, 2025

MEDIA ADVISORY: 2025 Legislative Review
Shaping Our Business Climate: A Post-Session Briefing for Southwest Washington 

WHAT: 2025 Legislative Review  

OVERVIEW: Businesses stay ahead of the curve on policies shaping Southwest Washington’s economic landscape. The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with Identity Clark County and the Columbia River Economic Development Council, invites you to the 2025 Legislative Review—a post-session briefing where legislators from the 17th, 18th, 20th, and 49th Districts will provide an insider look at the outcomes of the most recent legislative session. 

Hear directly from our elected officials as they unpack key decisions, reflect on legislative wins and challenges, and discuss what lies ahead for the business community. This panel-style conversation offers a valuable opportunity for local media and community members to gain insights into policies affecting economic development, workforce, infrastructure, and more. 

WHY ATTEND: Doors open at 8:30 AM for media check-in, networking, and coffee. The program kicks off at 9:00 AM with a panel discussion featuring our local legislators. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with those shaping policy in Olympia.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Date: Friday, May 9, 2025

• Location: Hilton Vancouver Washington (301 W 6th St, Vancouver, WA 98660)

• Time: 8:30 am - 10:30 am (Media Check-In: 8:30am)

• Event Link: 2025 Legislative Review

RSVP: To plan appropriately, please let us know if you will be able to attend as a media representative by emailing lsalmonte@vancouverusa.com. To submit questions in advance for the Q&A portion, please email Chamber@VancouverUSA.com" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89);" target="_blank">YourChamber@VancouverUSA.com. 

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The 2025 Legislative Review is made possible through the support of Priority Sponsors, Clark College Foundation and Washington Trust Bank; and Community Sponsors, BNSF Railway, C-TRAN, Chevron, Kaiser Permanente, and Legacy Health.  

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

A new Hospital Association of Oregon report shows that hospitals are financially unstable, threatening the future of patient care in Oregon communities. Almost half of the state’s hospitals operated at a loss in 2024, and others barely broke even.

“Oregon’s hospitals are on the brink,” said Becky Hultberg, Hospital Association of Oregon president and CEO. “They face a perfect storm of soaring expenses, complex and costly regulations, and payments that don’t cover the cost of care. And federal Medicaid changes contemplated by Congress could tip some hospitals over the edge.”

The report highlights that while hospitals across the country were challenged during the pandemic and are now stabilizing, Oregon hospitals remain on unstable footing.

“It’s becoming clear that Oregon hospitals operate in one of the most challenging environments in the country, shaped by a tough regulatory landscape and payments that don’t come close to covering the double-digit increases we’ve seen in expenses from salaries and benefits,” she said. “Patients are struggling to find doctors, wait times to see a doctor are long, and emergency departments are overcrowded. This is a result of the policy choices the state has made and insufficient payment from insurers.”

In this challenging environment, Oregon hospitals have been pushed to make difficult decisions including cutting more than 800 jobs, seeking partnerships to shore up operations, reducing or divesting from services, and fundraising to replace broken or outdated equipment. This is a trend that is likely to continue without shifts in health policy and increasing payments to hospitals to cover the cost of providing care.

Medicaid—the state’s largest insurer—is contributing to hospitals’ financial distress. The state only pays hospitals 56 cents on the dollar for caring for Medicaid patients. Additionally, hospitals are subject to onerous state rules and regulations that demand resources for compliance, reduce revenue, and increase operating expenses for hospitals.

Hospitals’ financial instability not only jeopardizes access to care but also threatens the economic stability of communities statewide. Oregon’s 61 hospitals serve as a crucial economic engine, generating $32.4 billion in economic impact and supporting 160,000 jobs—including 70,000 direct hospital employees.

“In this pivotal moment for hospitals, policymakers and community leaders cannot afford to ignore what’s happening in Oregon,” Hultberg said. “The choices the state makes are forcing the trade-off of services that our families, friends, and neighbors depend on.”

Read more about the state of Oregon’s hospitals in the Hospital Association of Oregon’s new report: Oregon Hospitals on the Brink.

Media availability:

• Hospital Association of Oregon President and CEO Becky Hultberg will be available to speak to the media between 1-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 1
• PNGs of graphics from the report are also available upon request

About the Hospital Association of Oregon

Founded in 1934, the Hospital Association of Oregon Association (HAO) is a mission-driven, nonprofit trade association representing Oregon’s 61 hospitals. Together, hospitals are the sixth largest private employer statewide, employing 70,000 employees. Committed to fostering a stronger, safer, more equitable Oregon where all people have access to the high-quality care they need, the hospital association supports Oregon’s hospitals so they can support their communities; educates government officials and the public on the state’s health landscape and works collaboratively with policymakers, community based organizations and the health care community to build consensus on and advance health care policy benefiting the state’s four million residents.

AMBOY, WASHINGTON – North Clark Historical Museum is in upper Amboy at 21416 NE 399^th St. in the renovated 1910 United Brethren Church. The Museum was incorporated in 1988 and opened to the public in June of 2000.

First Friday Open Mic Music Night:          May 2^nd                7:00 pm Music                   6:30-7:00 pm performer sign-up               

The Museum will be open on Saturday, May 10^th from Noon to 4:00 pm.

The Museum will be open on Saturday, May 24^th from Noon to 4:00 pm.

Exhibit on Mt. St. Helen’s.

May 10^th, Mt. St. Helen’s program by David Newcomb, volunteer, Mt. St. Helen’s Institute, entitled “Return to Life” with updates from the monument.

Open Door Stitchery Circle will meet on May 10, 2025                    1:00 – 4:00 pm

Bring your project to work on, share ideas, learn something new, join in lively conversation, and make new friends.

Visit with the Stitchery group and see what they are up to. Also, enjoy the program on Mt. St. Helens.

Don’t miss the 2025 Museum Raffle Quilt!  The quilt was made by the Chelatchie Quilters.  Tickets are $1.00.  The proceeds go to the Capital Improvement Fund for major upkeep and repairs on the building, such as a new roof.

Check out our Website!!             northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com      

Stay tuned to our website for the new and exciting events planned for this year!

Board of Directors business meetings:                   Guests are welcome to attend and view the proceedings.

Thursday, May 8^th                                           7:00 pm               via Zoom

                                                                          Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Wednesday, May 28^th                                     2:00-4:00 pm     at the Museum

                                                                          Short Business Meeting followed by a Work Session

Tours are available upon request:     contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message to schedule

                   or email museumnch88@gmail.com

No Admission Fee.                          Donations appreciated.                                Wheelchair accessible.

For more information, please contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message or email museumnch88@gmail.com.

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The North Clark Historical Museum was founded in 1988 and is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. The doors were opened in June of 2000. Mission Statement:   To preserve North Clark County’s natural and cultural history through collections and exhibits, and to sponsor educational programs and research opportunities for the enrichment of the public.
 

Mother's Day is right around the corner, and Oaks Park wants to help you to give mom the gift of fun on her special day!

Visit Oaks Park on Sunday, 5/11/2025, and get a FREE Ride Bracelet for mom with the purchase of a bracelet for their kid. And that kid could be 2 or 52... because you might be grown, but she'll be your mom forever!

Just ask for the Mother's Day Deal at the Ticket Booth!

For more info and more upcoming specials and deals, visit oakspark.com.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 28, 2025

Oregon’s Trade Economy Remains Strong Amid Global Uncertainty

New data shows 1 in 8 Oregon jobs tied to international trade

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon makes its mark in the global economy, according to the newly released 2025 State of Trade Report.

The report shows that over 270,000 Oregon jobs, roughly one in eight, are connected to international trade in goods and services, with export-driven industries driving higher-than-average wages and sustained economic growth across the state.

“Portland and Oregon are on the Pacific Rim, and international commerce is core to our economic and regional identity. Trade supports hundreds of thousands of families in both rural and urban areas,” said Andrew Hoan, President and CEO of the Portland Metro Chamber. “This latest report reinforces those facts. As we navigate an increasingly complex trade environment, we must expand these connections to keep our economy resilient.”

Key findings from the 2025 report include:

• $42 billion in goods and services exports in 2022 ($34.4 billion in goods and $8.2 billion in services).
• 88% of Oregon’s exporters are small and medium-sized businesses, demonstrating the critical role of local companies in global markets.
• 10.3% of Oregon’s GDP is tied to goods exports, with services exports estimated to add an additional 3–5%.
• Semiconductors remain Oregon’s top export, highlighting the state's central role in the global high-tech supply chain.

The report also underscores Oregon’s trade surplus, a distinction shared by only 11 states. Much of this surplus stems from high-value exports like semiconductors and transportation equipment, industries that also rely heavily on imports for parts and components.

The state’s evolving trade partnerships also come into focus. Exports to Mexico surged from $464 million in 2018 to $6.26 billion in 2025, now making Mexico Oregon’s top export destination. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has played a critical role in expanding access for Oregon goods, from motor vehicle parts to agricultural products.

However, new and proposed tariffs are raising red flags. Industries like agriculture and advanced manufacturing face growing exposure to retaliatory measures, disrupted supply chains, and rising costs.

“We continue hearing from countless Oregonians whose businesses and livelihoods depend on access to global markets—from distillers in Hood River who import bottles from Asia to fill with their products, to small companies in Portland and farmers statewide who face retaliatory tariffs on the Oregon-grown goods they export,” said Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold. “Their stories underscore just how much international trade affects everyday Oregonians, their livelihoods and our state’s economy, and why we must do everything possible to support it.”

 
“Trade isn’t just a headline issue; it’s about jobs, wages, and the future of Oregon communities,” said Angela Wilhelms, president and CEO of Oregon Business & Industry. “To remain competitive, we must create a climate at the local, state and federal level where importers and exporters across Oregon can thrive.”

The Oregon State of Trade report offers a comprehensive look at how international trade supports Oregon’s economy, highlighting its role in driving job creation, wage growth, and global competitiveness. Compiled using federal data, economic modeling, and industry input, the report analyzes both goods and services exports across key industries and regions. It provides a detailed view of Oregon’s trade footprint, showing how sectors like semiconductors, agriculture and transportation equipment contribute to a diversified and globally connected economy. The report also maps out the impact on employment, revealing that trade-related jobs often pay higher wages and are vital to both urban centers and rural communities.

The State of Trade report is a key tool for strategic planning, policy development and business support. It helps guide investment in infrastructure, identifies vulnerable industries and underscores the importance of resilient trade relationships, especially with top partners like Mexico, China and Malaysia. As trade dynamics shift, the report equips the state with data-driven insights to navigate global uncertainties, advocate for local industries, and sustain the economic benefits of a robust trade network.

The full 2025 State of Trade Report is available online here.

About Portland Metro Chamber:

The Portland Metro Chamber (The Chamber) is greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce and represents the largest, most diverse network of businesses in the region. The Chamber advocates for the health of our economy at all levels of government to support commerce, livability, community, and the region’s overall prosperity. We represent more than 2,200 members, from 27 counties, 13 states and virtually every industry sector. More than 80% of our members are small businesses.

Media Contact:

Connor McCarthy

Gard Communications

press@gardcommunications.com

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 28, 2025

Oregon’s Trade Economy Remains Strong Amid Global Uncertainty

New data shows 1 in 8 Oregon jobs tied to international trade

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon makes its mark in the global economy, according to the newly released 2024 State of Trade Report.

The report shows that over 270,000 Oregon jobs, roughly one in eight, are connected to international trade in goods and services, with export-driven industries driving higher-than-average wages and sustained economic growth across the state.

“Portland and Oregon are on the Pacific Rim, and international commerce is core to our economic and regional identity. Trade supports hundreds of thousands of families in both rural and urban areas,” said Andrew Hoan, President and CEO of the Portland Metro Chamber. “This latest report reinforces those facts. As we navigate an increasingly complex trade environment, we must expand these connections to keep our economy resilient.”

Key findings from the 2024 report include:

• $42 billion in goods and services exports in 2022 ($34.4 billion in goods and $8.2 billion in services).
• 88% of Oregon’s exporters are small and medium-sized businesses, demonstrating the critical role of local companies in global markets.
• 10.3% of Oregon’s GDP is tied to goods exports, with services exports estimated to add an additional 3–5%.
• Semiconductors remain Oregon’s top export, highlighting the state's central role in the global high-tech supply chain.

The report also underscores Oregon’s trade surplus, a distinction shared by only 11 states. Much of this surplus stems from high-value exports like semiconductors and transportation equipment, industries that also rely heavily on imports for parts and components.

The state’s evolving trade partnerships also come into focus. Exports to Mexico surged from $464 million in 2018 to $6.26 billion in 2024, now making Mexico Oregon’s top export destination. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has played a critical role in expanding access for Oregon goods, from motor vehicle parts to agricultural products.

However, new and proposed tariffs are raising red flags. Industries like agriculture and advanced manufacturing face growing exposure to retaliatory measures, disrupted supply chains, and rising costs.

“We continue hearing from countless Oregonians whose businesses and livelihoods depend on access to global markets—from distillers in Hood River who import bottles from Asia to fill with their products, to small companies in Portland and farmers statewide who face retaliatory tariffs on the Oregon-grown goods they export. Their stories underscore just how much international trade affects everyday Oregonians, their livelihoods and our state’s economy, and why we must do everything possible to support it.”

 
“Trade isn’t just a headline issue; it’s about jobs, wages, and the future of Oregon communities,” said Angela Wilhelms, president and CEO of Oregon Business & Industry. “To remain competitive, we must create a climate at the local, state and federal level where importers and exporters across Oregon can thrive.”

The Oregon State of Trade report offers a comprehensive look at how international trade supports Oregon’s economy, highlighting its role in driving job creation, wage growth, and global competitiveness. Compiled using federal data, economic modeling, and industry input, the report analyzes both goods and services exports across key industries and regions. It provides a detailed view of Oregon’s trade footprint, showing how sectors like semiconductors, agriculture and transportation equipment contribute to a diversified and globally connected economy. The report also maps out the impact on employment, revealing that trade-related jobs often pay higher wages and are vital to both urban centers and rural communities.

The State of Trade report is a key tool for strategic planning, policy development and business support. It helps guide investment in infrastructure, identifies vulnerable industries and underscores the importance of resilient trade relationships, especially with top partners like Mexico, China and Malaysia. As trade dynamics shift, the report equips the state with data-driven insights to navigate global uncertainties, advocate for local industries, and sustain the economic benefits of a robust trade network.

The full 2024 State of Trade Report is available online here.

About Portland Metro Chamber:

The Portland Metro Chamber (The Chamber) is greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce and represents the largest, most diverse network of businesses in the region. The Chamber advocates for the health of our economy at all levels of government to support commerce, livability, community, and the region’s overall prosperity. We represent more than 2,200 members, from 27 counties, 13 states and virtually every industry sector. More than 80% of our members are small businesses.

Media Contact:

Connor McCarthy

Gard Communications

press@gardcommunications.com

Tickets go on sale May 2 at 9:00 AM

[SALEM, OR] The 4^th of July Spectacular is returning to the Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center! Get ready for a fun night with delicious food, classic carnival rides, dancing to Lil Jon and the Ying Yang Twins, and culminating with an exciting, free fireworks show.

The gates open at 4 p.m., allowing for plenty of time for family fun before the fireworks begin at 10 p.m. Rainier Amusement’s carnival will be in full swing, featuring more than a dozen rides, including Tilt-A-Whirl, Yo-Yo, and a Merry Go Round.

Of course, no 4^th of July celebration would be complete without your favorite fair foods like corn dogs and cotton candy, so be sure to bring your appetite. We’ll have food and drink options for kids and adults to enjoy.

In the evening, get ready for a party in the L.B. Day Amphitheater! Lil Jon and the Ying Yang Twins will take the stage to perform iconic hits like “Get Low” and “Salt Shaker”. The duo credits their 2003 team-up with Lil Jon, "the King of Crunk”, for their nationwide success, so this performance will be one for the books. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m.

The party isn’t over once the music stops! Our 20-minute fireworks show will begin just as the show ends, so stick around to watch as they light up the sky. We recommend bringing a blanket or chairs so you can enjoy the show more comfortably. The 4^th of July Spectacular fireworks show is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.

Parking:

VIP: $20 per car when you buy online ahead of time

General: $10 per car when you buy at the event

To buy concert tickets, visit oregonstatefair.org/spectacular. Carnival tickets will be available for purchase in person at the event.