Washougal School District is seeking applications from District residents interested in being appointed to committees to write the “for” and “against” statements for the Clark and Skamania County Local Voters’ Pamphlets related to the District’s following two ballot measures to be considered at the February 10, 2026 election: Renewal Educational Programs and Operation Levy, and Renewal Capital Levy for Educational Technology, Health and Safety Improvements.

Interested residents should send their name, address, email address, phone number and committee name (or which position they represent) to: Kori Kelly, Administrative Assistant, Washougal School District, 4855 Evergreen Way, Washougal, WA 98671 or via email at i.kelly@washougalsd.org">kori.kelly@washougalsd.org by noon on December 3, 2025. The Board will take action on the appointments at its December 9, 2025 meeting. Contact information for individuals appointed by the Board may be listed in the local voters’ pamphlet. For more information, please reference the Clark County “Election Guide for Jurisdictions and Local Voters’ Pamphlet Administrative Rules” available at: https://clark.wa.gov/elections/jurisdictions.

On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 4:13 a.m., deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a report of an explosive device being thrown at a door near the 300 block of N 10^th Avenue in Cornelius. After coming out and taking a closer look at the damage, the 911 caller found multiple bullet holes in the door of the home. Thankfully, no one was injured by the explosion or the gunfire.

Responding deputies contacted the Washington County Community Violence Reduction Team (CoVRT) and the Metro Explosives Disposal Unit to assist in the investigation. During the investigation, deputies discovered this was a targeted attack and believed the suspect was known to the victim. Deputies called on additional resources to help in arresting the suspect and shared concerns that he may have a firearm and additional explosive devices.

The Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT), Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU), Remotely Operated Vehicle Team (ROVT), and Incident Management Team (IMT) responded. Investigators with CoVRT applied for a search warrant at a home near the 13000 block of SW Cottontail Lane in Beaverton, where the suspect, 37-year-old Samuel Lund, lived.

At about 10:30 p.m., before executing a search warrant, investigators saw Lund leaving the home on a bicycle, heading towards SW Scholls Ferry Road, where they intercepted and took him into custody. Investigators then served the search warrant on Lund’s home, discovering additional explosive devices.

Lund was transported to the Washington County Jail and charged by the District Attorney’s Office on the following charges:

• Attempted Murder in the First Degree (x4)
• Attempted Murder in the Second
• Arson in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (x4)
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Unlawful Manufacture of a Destructive Device
• Unlawful Possession of a Destructive Device

If you witnessed the incident in Cornelius and have not yet spoken to investigators, please contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 57-22-1150. 

Saturday, November 22 | 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Willamette Heritage Center – Spinning Room, Salem, Oregon

SALEM, Ore. – The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) and World Beat Festival invite the community to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world at this year’s World Beat Holiday Market. The event will take place Saturday, November 22, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Willamette Heritage Center’s Spinning Room at 1313 Mill Street SE in Salem.

For just $5 admission, guests can shop a diverse selection of handcrafted works by artisans representing cultures from across the globe—while helping support SMI and World Beat’s year-round cultural and educational programming. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, these events depend on community support to continue fostering cross-cultural exchange, creating economic opportunities, and showcasing global traditions.

“Salem has more than 106 languages spoken in our school district,” said Terry Romero, Marketing Director for the World Beat Festival. “Our diversity is what makes us great—and the Holiday Market is a joyful way to celebrate that together.”

Attendees can browse an extraordinary variety of goods, including:

• Artisan Mexican crafts, Ghanaian drums and jewelry, Celtic and Scandinavian gifts, and Native American beadwork.
   

• Ukrainian art, Micronesian earrings, forged knives, island textiles, organic teas, jams and preserves, candles, soaps, and more.
   

• Live pottery demonstrations, personalized ornaments, and henna art.
   

When it’s time for a break, guests can enjoy delicious global eats, including shrimp or chicken creole from Cajun Cookin’, fresh beignets, and chocolate-covered strawberries with pistachios.

A 50/50 cash raffle will also be held, with the drawing at 5:30 p.m. (winner need not be present to claim their prize).

Follow World Beat on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit WorldBeat.org and SalemMulticultural.org to learn more about exhibits, programs, and upcoming cultural events.

About the Salem Multicultural Institute & World Beat: The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) and its signature event, the World Beat Festival, celebrate the cultural richness of our community. Through year-round exhibits, performances, and educational programs, SMI strives to create opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of the many traditions that make Salem unique. www.SalemMulticultural.org, 503-581-2004.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

BEND, OR — In the 19^th and early 20^th centuries, illustrated maps and advertisements functioned as powerful enticements to attract new inhabitants to the West. Opening Saturday, November 15 at the High Desert Museum, Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place explores a century of salesmanship, when artists and cartographers alike crafted an image of the West that depicted both fact and fiction.

The visually engaging exhibition will feature 50-plus maps, artworks and advertisements from the Museum’s extensive collections, including work by prominent Western artists Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, Edward B. Quigley and Edward Borein. Visitors will explore the decades of westward expansion, as roads, railroads, national parks and ski resorts began to sprout across the landscape.

“The Museum is privileged to care for some truly amazing historical documents and artworks, and this exhibition incorporates some truly engaging, special pieces from our vault,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “Drawn West brings together these items into a visual history of how narratives about the West took shape.”

The West’s inspiring mountains, broad plateaus and rapid rivers have long evoked a strong connection to a mythic Western character. Artists often represented Western cultures and landscapes through a romantic lens, at times infusing myth into marketing.

Leveraging the Museum’s collection of 29,000 objects, the exhibition is divided into five sections: Westward Expansion, Railroads, Roads, Recreation and Reclamation–covering 100 years of change.

Each section dives into not only the national and legal challenges but also the regional response as more people moved West–all from the lens of the artists, cartographers and marketers of the time. From the growth of cities and towns along railways in the High Desert to the first Pendleton Round-Up in 1910 and the construction of the Bonneville Dam in the 1930s, each artwork, map and advertisement on display tells a story of near-constant change.

Some of the illustrated maps and art on display include Portrait of Crowfoot, a watercolor on paper by Russell, as well as Russell’s first article published in Harper’s Weekly in 1888, Caught in the Act. The article detailed the harsh realities of inadequate food supplies for Indigenous peoples forced onto reservations to make way for Euro-American settlement. Russell was known for publicly condemning the government-sponsored settlement of the West and its effect on Indigenous peoples. An original homestead deed from 1907 stands in stark contrast to the detailed painting.

Classic Bronco, a bronze statue by Edward B. Quigley (1895-1984), depicts a bucking bronco and his rider. Quigley used his experiences participating in numerous cattle drives with the Yakama Nation as an inspiration for his art. A copy of Lansford Hastings’ Emigrants Guide to Oregon and California (1845) and a Harper’s Weekly cover illustration by Remington are also on display.

“These are original works by prominent Western artists, some of whom, like Russell, have entire museums dedicated to them,” Whitelaw said. “From an 1841 map of Oregon Territory by Charles Wilkes to bronzes by artists like Quigley to ski advertisements from the 1950s, the exhibition is an engaging look into how the stories of the High Desert were told throughout time.”

From myths and marketing to fact and fiction, Drawn West will encourage visitors to look closer at a century of advertising place. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/drawn-west.

Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place is on view through June 28, 2026. The exhibition is made possible by the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, 100.1 FM KBND and the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver City Council unanimously voted to adopt a new flag after the community-led Flag Selection Committee presented its recommendation to the Council tonight.

“This flag is the result of thoughtful collaboration and creative input from across our community,” said Rose Mendoza, chair of the Flag Selection Committee. “Every element in the design reflects something meaningful about Vancouver, and it is a symbol we can all be proud of now and into the future.”

“Our new flag is a powerful reflection of who we are as a city,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “It represents our natural surroundings, the iconic places that define Vancouver, and the creativity that makes our community special. This flag truly tells the story of a community on the rise.”

Residents were involved throughout the process. The City Council appointed a volunteer committee to select the flag from the 138 entries submitted. Once the committee selected the finalists, the City invited the public to provide feedback on them (1,438 responses were received). The committee used this feedback to inform deliberations and the final flag recommendation to the City Council. To ensure a fair and impartial selection process, all entries were reviewed anonymously, without identifying information. During the review, judges independently created two composite flags by combining elements from multiple submissions they felt worked well together. The original creators whose designs inspired these composites were credited for their contributions.  

Ultimately, the committee recommended a composite flag composed of elements from the flags created by Brooke Nugent and Nathan Hunter as the next flag for Vancouver. The new flag tells the story of a community shaped by the Columbia River, a deep sense of place, and the generations of people who have called this land home.

• The field of green symbolizes Vancouver’s natural environment, forests, parks, and commitment to sustainability.​
• The emblem draws inspiration from iconic Vancouver landmarks (Fort Vancouver, Salmon Run Bell Tower, and the Grant Street Pier). It is a nod to the past and a symbol of forward progress.​
• The white chevron is a strong V for Vancouver, a connection between the land and the water, and a path forward.​
• The field of blue represents the Columbia River and the community’s deep connection to the river that has shaped its culture, economy, and sense of place.

“Vancouver’s flag is meant to be shared, celebrated, and seen throughout our community and beyond,” said Communications Director Laura Shepard. “It is available for creative use, whether you want to print it on a T-shirt, make stickers, design merchandise, or even get a tattoo of the new flag. The only requirement is to keep the colors and layout true to the design. People can download the official files from our website and start creating.”

The new flag will be formally raised on the City Hall flagpole at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, followed by a community introduction and official prize presentation at 3:45 p.m. as part of the annual tree lighting celebration.

Visit Vancouver's Flag to learn more about the new flag.
 

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Lebanon, Oregon, man made his initial appearance today for possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) after being linked to images and groups on social media platforms, including Instagram and Telegram.

Jeremy Russell Bodell, 52, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, on October 4, 2021, Instagram reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) the distribution of a single video between user “Kildrak Fireblade” and another user depicting child pornography. NCMEC identified Bodell as the likely subscriber of the phone number associated with the Instagram account “Kildrak Fireblade.”

In September 2025, during an investigation into CSAM trading groups, which are invite-only, non-public chat groups, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) came across the username “dax,” who was associated with the same phone number previously identified by NCMEC as belonging to Bodell. The username “dax” was a member of 15 separate CSAM trading groups, which share images, videos, and cloud storage links depicting CSAM. Phone records verified Bodell as the subscriber of the phone number associated with these accounts.

On November 7, 2025, HSI executed a federal search warrant at Bodell’s residence, person, and vehicle. During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement seized Bodell’s cell phone and found evidence of CSAM, including membership in CSAM groups on social media applications, such as Telegram. Bodell’s gallery in his phone also contained saved images and videos of CSAM material.

During an interview, Bodell told investigators he was previously accused of sex abuse. HSI is investigating these allegations. At the end of the interview, Bodell was arrested for possession of CSAM.

Bodell made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered released with conditions pending further court proceedings.

This case is being investigated by HSI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez.

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

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

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Deschutes County District Attorney's Office

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office

MEDIA CONTACT:

Steve Gunnels, District Attorney

541-771-6785

Stephen.Gunnels@dcda.us  

BEND, OR - On November 10, 2025, Deschutes County Judge Alison Emerson sentenced 41-year-old Portland resident Samson Garner to 30 years in prison for Attempted Murder and other charges related to the plan and actions that he took to carry out a mass shooting at an event at Smith Rock State Park in October of 2023.

Garner shared plans to show up at a climbing event to rampage through the event, shooting participants and spectators.  He was aware that a few hundred people would be attending. Garner also discussed his persistent thoughts about murder and vengeance and his desire to kill people and inflict intense feelings of shock and trauma on those who would watch but do nothing to help.

In August 2023, the day before the event was scheduled to begin, Garner drove from his residence in the Portland area, after a prolonged period of isolation in his house, to Deschutes County, where he was contacted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and taken into custody.  He was in possession of multiple firearms, body armor, and a large cache of ammunition. He had packed a tactical vest to capacity with ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds.  

“The conviction of Samson Garner is the result of outstanding investigative work and interagency collaboration that undoubtedly saved lives,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “Our Detectives Unit, with vital support from Patrol Deputies, worked closely with the Portland Police Bureau and the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office to track Garner’s movements, gather critical evidence, and build a strong case that ensured justice was served. Their professionalism, diligence, and commitment to protecting our community reflect the very best of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and demonstrate the power of proactive policing and strong partnerships in preventing acts of violence.”

The Portland Police Bureau, which first received information about Garner’s threats, and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office worked together and performed admirably to stop Garner from carrying out his plan. They took his threats seriously and prevented what would have been a catastrophic mass-casualty incident, had Garner’s plans played out.

“The diligent work by law enforcement prevented a horrific tragedy,” said Portland Police Chief Bob Day. “The remarkable professionalism and seamless coordination across law enforcement—from PPB patrol officers and detectives to our threat assessment team, behavioral health, and our partners at the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office—ensured that nothing fell through the cracks. And it all began with a tip from the community who recognized that one individual could pose a significant danger.”

This case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorneys Mary Anderson and Stacy Neil on behalf of the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office. After hearing testimony from dozens of witnesses and reviewing over 100 trial exhibits, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on all 26 felony charges.

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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

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85902313356?pwd=wpVIeh5KGNzibvuY4giyQgEUTFmYcp.1
Passcode:813689

November 10, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon Cannabis Commission seeks to fill 3 open positions

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Cannabis Commission (OCC) is seeking candidates to fill open positions.

The OCC provides advice to Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission regarding Oregon Administrative Rules that govern medical cannabis, as well as retail cannabis, as it pertains to patients and caregivers. More information can be found on the OCC’s website at www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.

The OCC governor-appointed positions are defined in 475C.930 and consist of the state health officer or designee and an eight-member panel. Members serve a term of four years each.

OCC is looking to fill three vacant positions: an attending provider as defined in ORS 475C.777; a local health officer, as described in ORS 431.418; and a person knowledgeable about research proposal grant protocols.

To apply, complete the electronic application on the governor’s Boards and Commissions website at https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx.

Note that only completed applications will be processed and considered for appointment. The application site lists items needed to apply, including:

• Uploaded resume (PDF only).
• Uploaded short personal bio.
• Responses to the general application and background questions.

Those unable to complete the form electronically should contact the Executive Appointments Office at executive.appointments@oregon.gov for assistance.

For more information or questions, email the board administrator, Megan Lockwood, at .lockwood@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">megan.r.lockwood@oha.oregon.gov.

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Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office thwarted a murder-for-hire plot by arresting three men. Detectives assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit learned that 58-year-old Dru Hendrix conspired to pay 50-year-old Mario Guaderrama and 36-year-old Zion Unga to kill the victim, for which Hendrix is facing charges. The men planned the murder while they were all lodged in the Washington County Jail. Hendrix arranged for Unga to receive $30,000 after Unga was released from jail in October. Hendrix also had $30,000 placed on Guaderrama’s jail booking account.

On Thursday, November 6, detectives arrested Unga, who had been released from jail prior to the plot coming to light. Detectives then added charges to Hendrix and Guaderrama, who remained in custody on their prior cases. All three were charged with conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree. Hendrix was also charged with solicitation to commit murder in the first degree and tampering with a witness. Thankfully, the plot was interrupted before the victim was harmed.

The same day the men were arrested, detectives served a search warrant and seized approximately $140,000 from accounts connected to the three men. That was followed by a second search warrant at a Hillsboro home linked to Guaderrama, where detectives seized three handguns, a rifle, a silencer, a switchblade knife, and brass knuckles.

Hendrix was initially arrested in July 2025, and a grand jury indicted him for more than 20 charges. Those details were covered in several prior media releases. He is currently facing 35 charges on multiple cases and also has a pending kidnapping and sexual assault case in Columbia County. Guaderrama was arrested in mid-September after he violated the conditions of release and failed to appear for court on a prior case. Unga was arrested in August for possession of a stolen vehicle and several other charges. He was released in mid-October and then arrested by detectives on this case on November 6.

All three men are being held in jail pending a hearing where the state will request they be denied bail. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are expected. The release of the suspects’ booking photos is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity. If you have any information to share about this case, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700 and reference case 50-25-15124.

Nov. 10, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Paid Leave Oregon Invites Public Input on Proposed Administrative Rules

Salem, Ore. – Paid Leave Oregon is proposing updates to program rules and inviting public comment.

The proposed changes help clarify how people qualify for Paid Leave Oregon benefits, how employers share information with employees, and how the program handles things like appeals, verification documents, and situations where someone is unable to manage their own claim. The updates also align the program with new state laws passed in the 2023 and 2025 legislative sessions.

The full proposed rule text as well as more information on the related public hearings is attached.

Public comment period

The public may comment through Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11:55 p.m.

Comments may be submitted by email to: ules@employ.oregon.gov">OED_Rules@employ.oregon.gov

Public hearings

Two virtual public hearings are scheduled:

Monday, November 17, 2025

• 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
• Click here to join the meeting
• Phone: 1-669-254-5252
• Conference ID: 1604539652

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

• 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
• Click here to join the meeting
• Phone: 1-669-254-5252
• Conference ID: 1604824733

About the rulemaking process

Updating rules is a regular part of keeping Paid Leave Oregon efficient and accessible to Oregonians. This public comment period allows people review the proposed changes, ask questions, and provide input before rules are finalized. After the comment period closes, the Oregon Employment Department will review feedback and adopt final rules.

If approved, the rules would take effect January 1, 2026.

More information and the full text of the proposed rules are available on the Paid Leave Oregon website.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

Prepare to be swept away to the magical land of Oz as the Battle Ground High School drama club proudly presents OZ by Don Zolidis! This witty adaptation reimagines the classic tale with modern twists, laugh-out-loud humor and dazzling performances. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the story for the first time, this production is sure to leave you smiling from start to finish.

Show information

• Thursday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m.

• Friday, Nov. 15, at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m.

• Friday, Nov. 22, at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Purchase tickets online.

• $10 general admission

• $7 students with ASB cards

• Special deal: $30 for all 2025–2026 Battle Ground High School drama club shows!

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions, the Clark County Commission on Aging has established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award. The COA celebrates 2025 by presenting the 6^th annual Silver Citizen Award at their final meeting of the year. This year’s award recognizes Sharon Wodtke.

Sharon is currently the President of the Board of Directors for Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc (BGSC). She has been involved with this group since 2018, and, under her leadership, the group has expanded their impact on the aging community. Since 2018, the BGSC has grown their roster from 90 to over 700 participants and serves up to 200 lunches to area seniors each week. Sharon actively spearheaded a revival of senior activities post-pandemic by recruiting volunteers and developing activities and cost saving programs and educational opportunities. The nomination for Sharon states, “Many seniors have even been moved to tears, expressing deep gratitude for the range of opportunities now available to them.”

The meeting will begin at 4:30 pm Wednesday, Nov. 19, and is open to the public.

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

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

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

Tidewater, OR — On November 6, 2025, at approximately 11:30 PM, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing hunter in the Harris Ranch area, just off Highway 34 near Tidewater, OR. The individual had contacted family members to report that he was lost and in need of assistance.

A patrol sergeant from the Sheriff’s Office responded to the area and met with the hunter’s family and friends near the location where the hunter’s vehicle was found. Initial efforts to pinpoint the hunter’s location indicated he was in a steep drainage area with dense brush and limited visibility. Due to the challenging terrain and heavy undergrowth, the decision was made to deploy the Lincoln County Search and Rescue (SAR) team.

SAR personnel arrived on scene and began their search in the area where the hunter was believed to be. They located several personal items that confirmed the hunter’s earlier presence and tracked a trail of belongings further down the drainage. A second SAR team approached from the bottom of the drainage and successfully located the hunter, who was found wet and cold but otherwise uninjured.

After a medical evaluation, it was determined the hunter was able to walk out on his own. He was escorted to waiting vehicles and reunited with his family and friends.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in remote wilderness areas. When venturing out in rainy or windy weather, wear clothing that is water-resistant and windproof. Avoid cotton garments, as they retain moisture and can rapidly draw heat from the body, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and always let someone know your plans before heading into the wilderness

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report highlights how mid-market leaders are responding to economic volatility

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 10, 2025) — Oregon’s private companies are adopting a cautious yet agile approach as they navigate slowing growth, workforce challenges, capital constraints and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), according to the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report released today.

The report is based on a survey of more than 60 leaders of private companies in the Western U.S., including 20 Oregon owners and executives representing construction, healthcare, real estate, manufacturing and professional services. It reveals a business environment defined by guarded optimism, operational adaptation and renewed focus on resilience. It was published by Aldrich, a leading accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Portland, Ore. that provides the Western U.S. with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement and business transition services.

“Oregon’s business leaders are not standing still—they’re recalibrating,” said John Lauseng, CPA, CEO and Partner of Aldrich. “They’re responding to economic uncertainty by making proactive changes to their supply chain, growth and employment strategies. This agility will be critical to long-term success.”

Outlook is guarded, but leaders are taking action

Only 20% of Oregon business leaders feel optimistic about revenue growth in the year ahead, and nearly one-third (30%) are more pessimistic than they were six months ago. Rising costs, high interest rates and persistent workforce challenges are fueling a cautious approach.

Still, Oregon companies are taking decisive steps to preserve financial health and operational stability:

• 45% have slowed or delayed capital investments to maintain liquidity, while 30% are considering doing this going forward
• 35% have made supply chain changes, with another 45% considering them
• 70% are adjusting talent strategies, from slowing hiring to reducing headcount and hours
• While only 20% have passed increased costs on to customers, and additional 45% are considering doing this in the future.

“We’re seeing Oregon leaders act early rather than react late,” Lauseng added. “They’re protecting core operations and adjusting their strategic plans where needed, while maintaining flexibility and looking for ways to operate more efficiently.”

Leadership gaps in technology and financial insight

Oregon companies acknowledge room for improvement in how they leverage data and technology. Only 30% of leaders are confident in their team’s ability to implement the right technology, and just 10% rate their financial data utilization as excellent.

“Strengthening these capabilities presents an opportunity for businesses to gain real-time insight and sharpen decision-making amid ongoing uncertainty,” Lauseng noted.

Continuity is the top priority for business transitions

Among Oregon business leaders planning for succession, continuity for employees and clients (55%) and finding the right buyer or successor (55%) ranked as the top focus areas. By comparison, only 40% prioritize maximizing sale value and 35% identified minimizing taxes on the sales or transfer, revealing that most Oregon leaders value legacy, relationships and cultural fit over financial return.

At the same time, 75% of owners reported receiving at least one unsolicited offer to sell in the past year. This high level of interest highlights the market demand for well-run private companies, but it also raises the stakes, the report notes.

“The most successful transitions often begin five to ten years in advance,” Lauseng said. “Starting early allows business owners to explore all transition options, identify the right successor and ensure continuity for employees, clients and the business.”

“One Big Beautiful Bill” opens strategic planning opportunities

While most Oregon leaders have a general understanding of the OBBBA, few have applied its provisions to strategic planning. The legislation includes significant tax updates, including permanent full expensing, restored Research & Development (R&D) deductions, enhanced pass-through flexibility and targeted incentives for domestic manufacturing.

Lauseng stressed that early evaluation of these opportunities and thoughtful planning can turn tax code changes into a long-term competitive advantage, especially for businesses considering expansion or ownership transition.

Additional trends shaping Oregon’s mid-market outlook

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report also revealed several broader themes:

• Confidence in managing disruption is low: Only 25% of leaders feel prepared to adapt to external shocks such as tariffs or economic volatility
• Financial visibility needs improvement: Just 10% rate their company’s use of financial data as excellent
• Credit conditions are tightening: 45% report greater difficulty accessing outside capital compared with six months ago
• Tariffs and supply chain challenges are pressuring margins: 60% say disruptions have negatively impacted financial health, particularly in manufacturing and construction
• Workforce adjustments under review: While 25% have already reduced hiring or hours, another 45% are considering adjustments as part of a broader workforce strategy

“This year’s data shows that Oregon companies are pragmatic and resilient,” Lauseng said. “They’re balancing near-term caution with forward-looking planning—and that’s a powerful combination in uncertain times.”

About the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report provides a snapshot of how private mid-market companies are responding to ongoing economic and legislative change. It reflects survey responses collected by GLG, a financial and global information services consulting company, in August 2025 from business owners and executives representing Oregon’s core industries.

About Aldrich

For more than 50 years, Aldrich has worked with businesses, their owners, and their employees to help them achieve their professional and personal financial goals. We pair deep industry experience with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement, and business transition services to help bring clarity to every phase of our clients’ personal and professional life cycles.

The Aldrich group of companies is composed of Aldrich CPAs + Advisors LLP, one of the top 70 accounting firms in the US (Accounting Today); Aldrich Wealth LP, a Registered Investment Advisory firm with over $6.5 billion in assets under advisement; and Aldrich Capital Advisors LP, which provides advisory services for business transactions.

Based in Oregon since our founding in 1973, Aldrich now serves clients across the country from our eight offices throughout the Western US.

Concert November 12 at 7:00 p.m. — Tickets $15

Oregon-based pop artist Hannah Wood brings her powerful voice and vibrant stage presence to the Chemeketa Auditorium on Wednesday, November 12 at 7:00 p.m. as part of the college’s Wonder Wednesdays concert series.

Known for her witty lyricism, charismatic performance style, and genre-bending pop sound, Hannah Wood is one of Oregon’s most exciting new artists. Her debut album, Hello to a Woman, has been nominated for Best Pop, Synth, or Contemporary Album at the 2025 PNW Music Awards, earning her recognition across the Pacific Northwest music scene.

Drawing inspiration from artists like Lizzy McAlpine and Kacey Musgraves, Wood crafts emotionally rich, radio-ready songs that blend authenticity with a contemporary pop edge. Her clear and expressive vocals, paired with her signature storytelling, make her live shows both intimate and electric.

“We’re thrilled to bring Hannah to the Chemeketa stage,” said Stephen Munshaw, Auditorium Manager at Chemeketa Community College. “She represents the incredible local talent thriving in Oregon’s music scene, and audiences are in for a memorable night of fresh, heartfelt pop music.”

Tickets are $15 and available now at Eventbrite Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and seating is reserved. $5 rush seating tickets are available for students!

Event Details

What: Hannah Wood in Concert
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2025 – 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Where: Chemeketa Auditorium, Chemeketa Community College, Salem, OR
Tickets: $15 Reserved Seating
Purchase: Eventbrite

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About Hannah Wood

Hannah Wood is an Oregon-born pop artist whose work combines clever lyricism, introspective storytelling, and catchy melodies. Her debut album Hello to a Woman has garnered critical praise and a nomination at the 2025 PNW Music Awards. With her relatable songwriting and magnetic performances, Hannah is quickly becoming a defining voice in the Pacific Northwest’s modern pop scene.

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The 2025 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival USA has been named Southwest Washington Event of the Year by the Washington Festivals and Events Association (WFEA). The festival also took home the award for Best PR/Media Campaign at WFEA’s annual Grand Summit awards ceremony on Oct. 30 in Bellevue, Washington.

Held July 31–Aug. 3 in downtown Vancouver, the free, four-day multi-disciplinary arts festival brought more than 50,000 attendees together to celebrate music, dance and visual arts. Produced through a partnership between the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA, the event showcased more than 60 performances across multiple stages, hundreds of local and regional artists, and generated an estimated $1.6 million in business sales for the community.

“This award recognizes what’s possible when our community comes together around the arts,” said Vancouver Cultural Services Manager, Stacey Donovan. “The festival’s success reflects the creativity, dedication and teamwork of hundreds of staff, artists, and volunteers who made it happen. It’s truly a shared accomplishment for our community.”

After just three years, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival USA has quickly become one of the region’s largest free arts celebrations, offering an engaging mix of symphonic concerts, contemporary performances, cultural exchange and interactive art experiences.

“At its heart, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival builds community through the shared joy of the arts,” said Igor Shakhman, CEO of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA. “Thousands of people of all ages gathered in Esther Short Park for our Vancouver Symphony Orchestra concerts with Renée Fleming, Mark and Maggie O’Connor, and Sharon Isbin. It was an inspiring demonstration of how civic and artistic partnerships enrich our quality of life and transform our community into a cultural destination.”

The 2025 festival was supported by more than 100 community volunteers, programming collaborator Clark College Foundation, Keller Foundation, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Oliva Family Fund, Waterfront Vancouver USA, and over a dozen other sponsors. Planning is already underway for the 2026 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, which will continue to build on this year’s momentum to bring people together through creativity and connection.

For more information about the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, visit www.vancouverartsandmusicfestival.com.

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UPDATE: SANTOS HAS BEEN LOCATED

RELEASE DATE:                Nov. 9, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                  25-46205
 

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for assistance from the public with locating a missing 41-year-old man, Kai Santos.  The staff at Santos’ care facility in the 400 block of NE 5 St., report that he left yesterday at about 9:30 a.m. Santos is a double amputee and quadriplegic and is unable to care for himself. He has close cropped black hair and brown eyes.

Santos is described by his family as a Filipino male who needs a wheelchair and assistance from someone at all times. It is believed that Santos scheduled a medical transport for himself using a service called Ride To Care but his family has been unable to confirm where he was taken.

Anyone who knows of Santo’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or non-emergency at 503-823-3333

#30

Lane County, Ore. (Nov. 10, 2025)- On Friday, November 7, 2025, at 3:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on SR-569 (Beltline Highway), near milepost 0, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Honda Accord, operated by Russell Fredrick Moncrief (52) of Eugene, braked suddenly and was struck in the rear by a westbound Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Scott Allen Zipprich (52) of Elmira. The collision caused the Chevrolet to enter the eastbound lane and strike an eastbound Dodge Stratus, operated by Vincent George Canham (84) of Eugene, head-on.

The operator of the Honda (Moncrief) was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Zipprich) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Dodge (Canham) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital. A passenger in the Dodge, Rolf Bertel Johansson (77) of Sweden, was transported to an area hospital with reportedly minor injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately 8 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Eugene Fire, Springfield Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Woodbrun, OR – On Saturday night, November 8, 2025, at 10:42 p.m., Woodburn Officers responded to a report of an explosion at the Woodburn Inn located at 1025 N. Pacific Highway in Woodburn. Upon arriving, officers found a 25-year-old male suffering from non-life-threatening bleeding injuries outside of one of the ground-level rooms.  The male’s injuries appeared to be caused by flying glass and debris spread throughout the parking lot, caused by an explosion from inside one of the motel rooms.  After getting the male to safety, officers also located a 33-year-old female and a 36-year-old male still inside the motel room, where officers found both of them suffering from burn injuries. Officers got both burn victims out of the room to safety and then evacuated the entire motel.

All three subjects were taken to local hospitals to be treated for their injuries, which appeared to be non-life-threatening.  After containing the area, OSP bomb squad responded to the scene, where they searched the room for any explosive devices. No devices were located in the room, and the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

This investigation is still ongoing, and the Woodburn Police are asking anyone with any information to call the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345 and reference case number 25-7866.

At 1934 this evening, Sweet Home Fire District was dispatched to a structure fire in the 1900 block of 19th ave. Crews arrived to find heavy fire and smoke coming from the structure. Initial reports indicated that it was unknown if anyone was inside the structure. Fire crews arrived and performed a rapid search and confirmed the structure was not occupied. Fire crews then began extinguishing the fire. This area of town presents some challenges as it is an unhydrated area. The commanding officer utilized a 2nd alarm which brought additional man power and additional fire apparatus from our mutual aid partners including a Chief officer and ladder truck from LFD, as well as a water tender from BRFD. Crews worked hard and were able to bring the blaze under control in about 30 minutes. Additionally, crews remained on scene another 2 hours performing overhaul. In total, 3 command officers, 16 firefighters, and 8 apparatus responded to the fire. We would like to thank our mutual aid partners for their assistance. Lebanon Fire District, Brownsville Rural Protection district, Sweet Home Police Dept, and PP&L. The cause of the fire is undetermined. During the incident no firefighters or civilians were injured. 

Photo Credit:  Jennifer Arant  

Updated: MEDIA ADVISORY — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Event Saturday Nov 15

Viral Thrift Store Twins to Unveil the World’s Largest Pants in Portland

What:
A giant pair of jeans — a jaw-dropping 9 feet wide and 20 feet long — will be unveiled in Portland. The spectacle is the latest wild concept from the ShirtzenPantz thrift store twins, known for turning unexpected ideas into viral attention.

Who:
Ethan and Owen Gail, 23-year-old twin brothers, lifelong Oregonians, and owners of Portland’s now-famous thrift stores ShirtzenPantz  (260,000 Instagram followers, @shirtzenpantz). Their original “kicking a rock into a sphere” video launched them into worldwide meme status — and now they’re back with their biggest stunt yet.

When:
SATURDAY November 15, 2025
Event Hours: 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm.
Pants Unveiling: 7:00 pm.

Where: Shirtzenpantz St. Johns, 7400 North Lombard St.,  Portland, OR 

Why: To turn attention toward secondhand shopping and sustainability — using humor, creativity, and community excitement.

“These pants are ridiculous — which is exactly the point,” said Ethan. “If massive pants get people in the door and buying secondhand, then massive pants it is.”

“Thrifting gives clothing a second life and cuts down on the carbon footprint of fast fashion and shipping,” added Owen.

Media Visuals + Coverage Opportunities:
• Dramatic pants unveiling — photo + video friendly
• Interviews with Ethan and Owen on sustainability + their viral growth
• Coverage of a signature Portland moment

About ShirtzenPantz

Ethan and Owen Gail are native Oregonians, graduating from Wilsonville High School in 2020. Owen is a graduate of Brandeis University (including a year at Oxford) with a degree in business and economics. Ethan graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a degree in manufacturing engineering. After achieving significant success selling clothing online, they opened their first brick-and-mortar store in the Hillsdale Shopping Center, located at 6343 SW Capitol Highway. They later expanded to a second location on N Lombard. There, you can find “Clothing Heaven,” where everything is $5, and discover the mystery of Grandma’s “Secret Salmon Room,” accessible through a magic wardrobe.

This year, Shirtzenpantz was named the Best Thrift Store in the Portland area by The Oregonian/OregonLive readers. Their brand is built on off-beat, wildly creative ideas: turning an irregular rock (“Christosphere”) round by kicking it for months, serving ice cream and cookies to customers, hosting poetry contests, and featuring their 87-year-old grandmother — “Grandma Shirtzenpantz,” Juanita Gail Hall, who hems, repairs, and bedazzles pieces each Wednesday 4–8 pm at the Capitol Highway location. Both stores are open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm www.Shirtzenpantz.com 

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. 

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236. The public and guests will join virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87941653784?pwd=i4siR5r-Wc2a2g6vAJDjTqeCuM5gmg.r7p523k5R3NramTn
Passcode:017162

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

Webinar ID: 879 4165 3784
Passcode: 017162

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

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man pleaded guilty yesterday on day four of his jury trial where he was accused of sex trafficking three minor victims.

Eric Lamont Harris, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of transportation with intent to engage in prostitution, three counts of sex trafficking of a child, three counts of sex trafficking of a child – benefitting from participation in a venture, and one count of sexual exploitation of children.

According to court documents, Harris began trafficking 15-year-old Minor Victim 1 in Spring 2022. Minor Victim 1 was a ward of the state and reported missing in March 2022. Harris began trafficking 16-year-old Minor Victim 2 in June 2022. In July 2022, Harris brought Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 from Portland to Kennewick, Washington, with the intent that they engage in prostitution at a hotel he booked in Kennewick. After Minor Victim 2’s parents reported her missing, the FBI and Kennewick Police recovered Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 in Kennewick. Harris first met 17-year-old Minor Victim 3 in June 2022, and he began trafficking her in August 2022. Each victim lived with Harris while engaging in prostitution and gave him the proceeds. Harris booked hotel rooms for the minor victims’ commercial sex dates, transported them to and from those dates, facilitated the posting of online escort advertisements featuring the minor victims, and received thousands of dollars’ worth of commercial sex proceeds from the minor victims.

“Sex trafficking is a most despicable crime that, unfortunately, happens here in Oregon. With our state and federal partners, we will stand up on behalf of the victims and do everything within our power to root out this evil and protect our children,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford.

“This guilty plea is a first step in providing some form of closure to the victims and their loved ones,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “This defendant’s systematic approach to sexually exploiting minors for financial gain and satisfaction demonstrates a level of depravity that warrants the full extent of the punishment legally possible.” 

On September 16, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an eight-count indictment charging Harris with transportation with intent to engage in prostitution, sex trafficking of a child, sex trafficking of a child – benefitting from participation in a venture, and sexual exploitation of children.

Harris faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a life-term of supervised release. He will be sentenced on January 29, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the FBI, the Portland Police Bureau, the Kennewick Police Department and the Medford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charlotte Kelley and Robert Trisotto are prosecuting the case.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.  

If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

# # #

November 7, 2025

Case:  24CR63562

Portland, OR- A Portland woman who drove drunk and killed another person when she crashed into the car they were riding in, will spend the next seven and a half years in prison.

60-year-old Rosa Victalina Hitzfeld pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree and Driving while under the influence of an intoxicant. Ms. Hitzfield had two prior DUII convictions, and one prior DUII diversion.

Multnomah County Circuit Judge Jenna Plank sentenced Hitzfeld to 90 months total in prison.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Multnomah County Sheriff's Deputy Gery Fiebich, who served as the lead investigator on this case. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would also like to recognize MCDA victim advocate Allison Miller for the care and concern they showed to the victims in this case.

Deputy District Attorney Andrew Wood prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing he said: “This was an extremely tragic and difficult incident for the Abbate family to process. The Abbate’s lost a loved one at the hands of a drunk driver, yet they showed a tremendous amount of strength throughout the process and compassion for the defendant. I hope that the sentence imposed by Judge Plank provides the Abbate family with a sense that justice has been served.” 

THE FACTS: 

On October 13, 2024, at about 9 PM, defendant Rosa Hitzfield drove the wrong way down Fairview parkway at with a blood alcohol level of approximately point-18.  Defendant made the turn onto Fairview Parkway from Glisan. Per a review of traffic cameras in the area, the defendant cut the turn short of the center median, and proceeded down the wrong direction of travel on Fairview. The defendant made it to a slight bend in Fairview pkwy, when the defendant struck a vehicle driven by Michael Abbate. Michael Abbate had his wife Vicki Abbate in the right front  passenger seat, and his mother Marcia Abbate in the rear passenger seat. Marcia Abbate passed away due to injuries sustained in the crash. 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 7, 2025) -- To support customers affected by the ongoing U.S. federal government shut down and delays in federal assistance programs, Portland General Electric is temporarily expanding protections for customers enrolled in its Income-Qualified Bill Discount and medical certificate programs. Through the end of the year, PGE will suspend service disconnections for Income-Qualified Bill Discount recipients and medical certificate customers.

“PGE understands that some customers are facing difficult decisions,” said Allison Rowden, PGE director of customer service. “We are here for our customers through bill assistance programs and options that can help with your specific situation. We’re just a phone call away.”

These temporary measures are in addition to PGE’s regular winter protections, which prohibit disconnections for all residential customers during times of extreme weather. Together, these measures help ensure customers maintain access to safe, reliable service during this period of uncertainty. Approximately 19,000 households throughout PGE’s service area have lost access to Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

PGE’s Income-Qualified Bill Discount Program is not affected by the government shutdown, and customers enrolled in the program will continue to receive their bill discounts. Residential customers not currently enrolled with a household income at or below 60% of Oregon’s median family income may be eligible to enroll in the program. The exact size of the discount percentage will vary based on household size and income level.

To enroll, eligible customers can sign up

• Online at portlandgeneral.com/iqbd
• Call PGE’s Customer Service at 503-228-6322, where teams are ready to assist in more than 200 languages.

The Income Qualified Discount Program is just one way that PGE works closely with customers who are struggling to pay their bills. PGE can also help by setting up a payment plan, extending payment due dates, or helping connect customers with community resources. Visit Oregon Energy Assistance Programs, LIHEAP & More | PGE for more information.

About Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to over 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

The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Friday, November 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. This public meeting will be conducted as a teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/board_agenda_11_21_2025.pdf

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

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Hockinson School District Board of Directors Regular Meeting

Date: 11/10/25

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Hockinson Community Center - 15916 NE 182nd Ave, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

GRESHAM, Ore.— The City of Gresham invites the community for a story time reading with Gresham police and firefighters. Enjoy refreshments, explore Fire Station 71, and learn about the ways the Fire and Police Levy are making a positive impact on emergency and public safety services in our community.

What: Gresham Fire Station Open House & Story Time

When: Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Fire Station 71, City Hall, 1333 NW Eastman Pkwy, Gresham, OR, 97030

Each story time will feature a picture book for younger audiences, and there will be fun activities for older children. Attendees are also encouraged to check out public safety vehicles and equipment, as well as chat with police and firefighters about what it means to serve the Gresham community.

This open house opportunity is the second in a series of four engagements the City is planning to host at Gresham fire stations through spring 2026. Information on future engagements will be posted to greshamoregon.org/events as it becomes available.  

#     #     #

About Gresham:   

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov.

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver invites the community to support the eleventh annual Korey's Joy Drive with donations of toys and warm clothing for neighbors in need starting Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Korey’s Joy Drive honors the memory of Korey Cochran, a City employee who passed away from brain cancer in 2017. He received the rare cancer diagnosis just before the holiday season.

“Since establishing Korey’s Joy Drive, we’ve collected more than 16,000 items to support families in need during the holidays,” said Jen Thomas with the City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. “Thanks to the generosity of our community and local business partners, we’ve doubled the number of charities we can support.” From Nov. 12 to Dec. 10, City employees will collect gift cards and new, unwrapped toys and new youth, teen and adult winter coats, gloves, socks and hats. All donations will be delivered to seven local non-profits including: Children's Center and Open House Ministries, Sea Mar Parent-Child Assistance Program, Share of Vancouver, Randall Children's Hospital at Legacy Emanuel, YWCA Clark County and Fosterful.

Community members can contribute at one of these public drop off sites:

· Edward Jones - Greg Hiatt - 5512 N.E. 109th Court, Suite D

· Firstenburg Community Center - 700 N.E. 136th Ave.

· Kazoodles Toys & Gifts – 13503 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd.

· Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar - 205 E. 39th St.

· Marshall Community Center - 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.

· The Al Angelo Company - 400 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Suite 500

· Vancouver City Hall - 415 W. 6th St.

· Vancouver Fire Department Station 5 – 7110 N.E. 63rd St.

· Vancouver Operations Center front desk - 4711 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.

· Vancouver Police West Precinct - 2800 N.E. Stapleton Rd.

· Vancouver Police East Precinct - 520 S.E. 155th Ave.

· Vancouver Utilities front desk - 2323 General Anderson Rd.

· Water Resources Education Center - 4600 S.E. Columbia Way

· West Vancouver Dental – 117 E. 39th St.

Shop local while giving: Purchasing gifts from local retailers helps keep dollars in Vancouver’s economy, supporting local jobs and services. Community members are encouraged to buy toys for donation from local businesses like Kazoodles Toys & Gifts, 13503 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd. (or order online) and Lyon and Pearle, 607 Washington Street (or order online).

Contributions can also be made via an Amazon Wish List. Choose from a variety of pre-selected items or choose your own to be shipped directly to the Joy Drive.

Local businesses interested in hosting a collection site may contact Jen Thomas at 360-487-7019 or jen.thomas@cityofvancouver.us.

Learn more at www.cityofvancouver.us/koreysjoydrive.

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Desha Levann Madkins guilty of eight counts of mail theft or receipt of stolen mail and possession of a burglary tool or theft device. Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 45 months in prison. Deputy District Attorney Trevor Farrell prosecuted this case.
 

On October 2, 2019, deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on the defendant after he was observed making an illegal turn while driving without his headlights activated. Deputies confirmed the defendant had a warrant for his arrest. Deputies located drugs in his pocket and multiple mail items, along with credit and debit cards and IDs belonging to multiple victims. Deputies also located a lockpick and a pry bar in his backpack. The defendant admitted to stealing mail in order to pay for his drug addiction.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on this case.
 

The defendant will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jerone Enrico Cuie guilty of possession of a weapon by an inmate, felon in possession of a firearm, and supplying contraband. Deputy District Attorney Alicia Gerten prosecuted this case before Judge Theodore Sims.

On August 30, 2025, Beaverton police initiated a traffic stop of the defendant after they observed a forged registration tag displayed in his vehicle’s window. Officers learned the defendant was driving with a suspended driver’s license and was also issued a detainer related to a felony probation violation. Officers conducted a search of his person and asked if they missed anything during the pat down, which he denied. While en route to the Washington County Jail, the defendant asked an officer if he would be subject to a strip search during the intake process.

During processing at the jail, deputies found a fully loaded handgun hidden in the defendant’s underwear. The defendant was already a convicted felon for unlawful use of a weapon with a firearm stemming from a Multnomah County attempted murder case and was barred from possessing any firearms.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Beaverton Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 13, 2025.

DALLAS (OR) - After a thorough review of the investigative materials provided by the Salem Police Department, the Polk County District Attorney’s Office has elected not to pursue criminal charges related to an incident that occurred on October 19, 2025 in the parking lot of the Roth’s Fresh Markets on Wallace Avenue in West Salem.

In reaching this decision, the District Attorney’s Office reviewed statements taken from both participants in the incident, numerous investigative reports, as well as scene video taken from multiple angles of the incident. The totality of that documentation reveals that Mr. Luis Velasquez was the aggressor in this verbal and physical incident. The evidence shows that after Mr. Velasquez verbally initiated the confrontation, he brandished a knife at the other subject and intentionally attempted to damage that person’s vehicle by puncturing the tires prior to that other person attempting to drive away.

Mr. Velasquez sustained serious, life-threatening injuries when he was struck by the vehicle driven by the other participant. However, the evidence supports the conclusion that the actions of the driver were in reaction to the aggressive and threatening behavior of Mr. Velasquez. Further, after leaving the parking lot, the driver of the vehicle reached out to public safety officials and shortly thereafter turned himself into the Salem Police Department. Once there, he cooperated with the investigation, including allowing detectives to examine the involved vehicle.

Under this set of circumstances, and based on the evidence as currently known, the State would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the conduct here constituted a criminal offense.

The investigation undertaken by the Salem Police Department into this matter was exhaustive and comprehensive. Dozens of hours were spent by detectives and officers in seeking answers to what had transpired. The District Attorney’s Office is deeply appreciative of their professionalism and commitment to our community.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Norberto Nestor Muniz Jr. guilty of murder and first-degree abuse of a corpse. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman and Deputy District Attorney Bryce Bissinger prosecuted this case before Judge Andrew Erwin.

The defendant was originally convicted of these crimes in 2022. However, the Oregon Court of Appeals overturned the conviction and ordered a retrial.

On November 17, 2018, Beaverton police were called to a home off of SW Allen Boulevard on a report of a suspicious circumstance. Responding officers searched the house and found the body of Amy Low. Ms. Low's body was badly burned, and she was not positively identified until January of 2019.

Ms. Low lived at the residence with the defendant and another man. Detectives identified the defendant as a suspect in the crime. Investigators secured a search warrant and found several items of interest in the home, including items that contained DNA evidence. They determined Ms. Low was beaten to death and subsequently burned in a backyard burn pile.

The defendant was arrested with the assistance of Portland police on May 8, 2019, and was held until trial. The defendant had recently been released from prison after serving a Measure 11 sentence for first-degree robbery.

This office wishes to acknowledge the work of the Beaverton Police Department, including Detectives Chad Opitz and Maggie Brown. This office also wishes to thank the Oregon State Police Forensic Unit for their crime scene investigation and subsequent testing and the Portland Police Bureau for their assistance in apprehending the defendant.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 10, 2025.

Lake County, Ore. (Nov. 7, 2025)- On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 6:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 31, near milepost 71, in Lake County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Honda Accord, operated by Sydney-Marie Kathrine Dobson (33) of Keizer, failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway, and rolled. The operator was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle during the roll.

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

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

November 7, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Bully Creek Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Bully Creek Reservoir in Malheur County.

OHA issued the advisory July 18.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Bully Creek Reservoir are safe for human health and pet health.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind.

There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

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

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APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

November 7, 2025 

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831 

New Clackamas County Stabilization Center expands access to behavioral health crisis care 

OREGON CITY, Ore.- Clackamas County has opened a new stabilization center in Milwaukie, marking a major milestone in Oregon’s efforts to transform the state’s behavioral health system. For the first time, anyone in the Clackamas community experiencing a behavioral health crisis can walk in any time, day or night, and receive immediate care without having to go to an emergency room or jail.

The crisis center, located at 9200 SE McBrod Ave., in Milwaukie, will expand access to crisis and recovery services. The center will help people experiencing panic attacks, hallucinations or other behavioral health conditions, and will also connect individuals experiencing homelessness to transitional housing in the community.

OHA Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Christa Jones speaks at the ceremony alongside Gov. Kotek and Clackamas County officials, highlighting Oregon’s ongoing commitment to expanding behavioral health care access. The Clackamas County Stabilization Center will provide 24/7 behavioral health services for people in crisis.

“Today, we are celebrating meaningful access to services that are too often out of reach,” Governor Tina Kotek said during the ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday.

“Of course, there is still a long way to go and we have to keep pushing to get Oregonians the treatment they need and deserve. I’ve made it a priority in my administration to work towards an Oregon where every person can access the care they need, when they need it, and how they need it.” 

Clackamas County officials and OHA Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Christa Jones joined Governor Kotek at the ceremony.

“It’s inspiring to see a place where people in crisis can feel safer and supported,” Jones said. “The thoughtful design, with calming spaces and views of the creek, reflects a deep respect for the dignity and comfort of those receiving care.” 

The new center is funded through House Bill 5204, passed in 2024 to expand access to behavioral health crisis care through investments in infrastructure. The Clackamas project received $4 million through the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

The Clackamas County Stabilization Center will provide care to adults experiencing a behavioral health crisis and co-occurring disorders. Among the center’s services are crisis assessment, short-term housing, peer support, and connections to long-term treatment, recovery resources, and stable housing for individuals in behavioral health crises.

OHA is committed to transforming the state’s behavioral health system, expanding access to services and support, and investing in community-based services that provide compassionate and culturally responsive care.

The Clackamas Stabilization Center will serve as an important role by helping residents access services and support in their community. 

More information about the new Clackamas County Stabilization Center is available at: www.clackamas.us/h3s/stabilization-center. 

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Gresham, Ore.— Investigators with the East County Vehicular Crimes Team have arrested 22-year-old Eyasu Bedasso in relation to a fatal June traffic crash.

On June 16th, officers responded to a serious traffic crash on SW Towle Ave in Gresham. A small SUV driven by Bedasso collided with another vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle, 69-year-old Theresa Heick, died at the scene. Theresa’s husband and passenger, 79-year-old Robert Heick, was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Robert died of his injuries several days later.

Members of the East County Vehicular Crimes Team investigated the crash. The VCT is made up of specially trained officers from the Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, along with dedicated prosecutors from the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

Investigators reviewed physical evidence at the scene, surveillance video, and data captured by the involved vehicle’s onboard computers. An unmanned aircraft system (drone) was also used to analyze and document the crash scene. They determined Bedasso’s vehicle was travelling more than 80mph in the posted 35mph zone. His speed was the major cause of the crash. Investigators do not believe impairment was a factor in the collision.

Bedasso was indicted by a Grand Jury on October 31st and arrested by investigators on November 5th. He was booked into Multnomah County Jail to face two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, two counts of Criminally Negligent Homicide, and Reckless Driving. This crash is a tragic reminder of the danger and potential consequences when motorists disregard posted speed limits.

November 7, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir in Baker County. There is still an advisory for the Snake River portion of Brownlee Reservoir.

OHA issued the advisory Oct 9.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir are safe for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

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

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

###

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually on Monday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• New board member orientation packet 
• Board agenda development procedures   
• Identify work topics for our next meeting, and highlight any work to be completed prior to next meeting

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

This standing board committee recommends policies (or policy changes) to the board pertaining to governance issues and processes including the oversight and management of the BPM, orientation and training of new board members, the evaluation and improvement of the board, the repository of board materials, and oversight of the written conflict of interest policies, procedures, and review of annual or special statements of board members. Read more information about the committee.

Salem temporarily suspends downtown paid on-street parking Saturday, Nov. 29

• Free on-street parking downtown from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 29

Salem, Ore. – In celebration of Small Business Day and the kickoff of the 2025 holiday shopping season, the City of Salem will temporarily suspend paid on-street parking in the Downtown Parking District on Saturday, November 29, 2025. This suspension will be in effect from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., supporting local businesses and encouraging community engagement during this special event.

"Small businesses are the heart of Salem’s economy and a big part of what makes our downtown unique and special. We are excited to celebrate our local businesses on November 29 and kick off the holiday season by encouraging our community to shop locally, explore downtown and support the businesses that make Salem thrive,” said Krishna Namburi, Salem City Manager.

Downtown Salem is a vibrant destination filled with unique shops, entertainment venues and scenic walking and biking trails. Whether you're exploring on foot or by bike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information about things to do in Salem, go to www.cityofsalem.net/community/things-to-do.

Information about parking in Salem is available at www.cityofsalem.net/parking.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The next Clark County Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am Tuesday, Nov.18, 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: 671 772 263#
• Meeting ID: 227 411 207 256
• Passcode: Vm9Un9VY
• Join online here.

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

Clark Eligible to Compete for the 2027 $1 million Aspen Prize

Washington D.C.–The Aspen Institute recently named Clark College as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates. 

“Clark College is honored to be recognized among the top community colleges in the country by the Aspen Institute. This recognition affirms our ongoing commitment to equitable student success and the transformative power of education. At Clark, student success means more than earning a degree—it’s about creating pathways to opportunity for every learner,” said Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards. “This recognition from the Aspen Institute reflects the dedication of our staff and faculty and their ongoing work to close equity gaps, uplift our students, and strengthen our community through education.”

In 2021-22, Dr. Edwards was a fellow in the Aspen Community College Excellence Program for new presidents.

Together, the 200 colleges—six of them in Washington state—represent the breadth and diversity of the community college sector. They are located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country and serve anywhere from a few hundred students to tens of thousands. Some of these colleges focus primarily on workforce programs, while others focus on transfer and bachelor’s attainment or a combination of the two. 

“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.” 

Community colleges educate nearly six million students. Yet student outcomes fall short in graduation and post-graduation success. The Aspen Prize process identifies and celebrates community colleges that demonstrate that achieving stronger outcomes is possible, providing a roadmap of effective practices and strategies for other colleges to follow.  

As a next step, Clark College, among the 200 eligible colleges, has been invited to submit an application and participate in a rigorous review process culminating in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. Over the coming 20 months, the colleges that apply for the Aspen Prize will be assessed based on: (1) student outcomes data, ranging from student transfer and completion rates to employment and wages after graduation and (2) whether they have engaged in scaled practices that led to high and improving student outcomes.  

“Among these 200 colleges are some really special places that deliver strong and improving outcomes for students across the board,” Wyner said. “Our job over the coming 20 months is to gather a lot more data and work with a deep bench of field experts to assess which of these 200 stand out so we can not only honor them with a monetary award, but drive attention to the most effective field practices that other colleges can replicate.” 

Eligibility for the Aspen Prize is based on publicly available data demonstrating strong and improving student outcomes in first-to-second year retention, credentials awarded, and completion and transfer rates. The Aspen Prize is generously funded by Ascendium Education Philanthropy and the Joyce Foundation.

To identify the 200, Aspen updated its data model—including new measures for part-time degree completion, transfer rates, and bachelor’s attainment—adding data from the National Student Clearinghouse to existing federal data sets. 

Started in 2010, this is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize. Nationwide, about 20% of community colleges—200 of just under 1,000 public two-year colleges—were invited to apply this cycle, an increase from the 150 institutions in previous years. The full list can be accessed on the Aspen Prize homepage. 

About the Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program aims to strengthen higher education leadership and practice to improve student outcomes—with the ultimate goal of advancing economic mobility and developing talent for the good of each individual and society as a whole. 

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, D.C. and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org 

About Clark College  

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark Collegeprovides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers 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 over 9,500 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college. For more information, visit clark.edu.

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from November 2 to November 5, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on November 4 and November 5. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on November 2 or November 3. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on October 26, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

November 7, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Unity Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Unity Reservoir in Baker County.

OHA issued the advisory Sept 26.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Unity Reservoir are safe for human health and pet health.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people – especially small children, and pets – should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue green or If thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

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

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

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SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) has confirmed a more than $1.41 billion revenue surplus in the 2023-2025 biennium, triggering a tax surplus credit, or “kicker,” for the 2025 tax year.

The surplus will be returned to taxpayers through a credit on their 2025 state personal income tax returns filed in 2026. It is not sent to taxpayers in a check. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer's Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers who have not yet filed a 2024 tax return, should file now. That will allow them to claim their kicker credit when they file their 2025 tax return next year.

To calculate the amount of their credit, taxpayers can multiply their 2024 personal income tax liability before any credits—line 24 on the 2024 Form OR-40 filed earlier this year—by 9.863 percent. This percentage is determined and certified by OEA. Taxpayers who claimed a credit for tax paid to another state would need to subtract the credit amount from their liability before calculating the credit.

Personal income taxpayers can also determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online. To use the calculator, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2024 and 2025.

Taxpayers who don't have a filing obligation for 2025, still must file a 2025 tax return to claim their credit.

The 2025 Oregon personal income tax return instructions will include detailed information on how to claim the credit. Full-year Oregon residents will use Form OR-40. Part-year residents will use Form OR-40-P. Non-residents will use Form OR-40-N. Composite and fiduciary-income tax return filers are also eligible.

Taxpayers should keep in mind that the state may use all or part of their kicker to pay any state debt they owe. These debts can include taxes due for other years, child support, court fines, or school loans.

Taxpayers can donate their kicker to the Oregon State School Fund for K-12 public education, but they must donate the entire amount. The donation is permanent and cannot be taken back.

Taxpayers also have the option of donating part or all their refund to any or all the 29 charities approved by the Charitable Checkoff Commission. Taxpayers use Form OR-DONATE to designate their donation to charity.

For more information, go to the Oregon surplus “kicker” credit page of the Department of Revenue website.

Taxpayers that haven’t filed their 2024 Oregon tax return can still file electronically using tax preparation software or Direct File Oregon. Free tax preparation services are available for both federal and Oregon tax returns. Some companies offer free software use and e-filing for eligible taxpayers. Links to the software and free offers can be found on the Department of Revenue website. Information about free tax preparation services is also available on the website.

The Department of Revenue plans to announce the date taxpayers can start filing 2025 Oregon tax returns in January. The department will continue to offer Direct File Oregon as an option for taxpayers to electronically file their 2025 returns for free. The fastest way for taxpayers to claim and receive their kicker will be to file electronically and use direct deposit to receive their refund.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.

Fact Sheet: Oregon Revenue Surplus "Kicker" Credit 

How did Oregon get the kicker?

The 1979 Oregon Legislative Assembly passed the "Two percent kicker" law as a way to control state spending. The law requires the state to compare the revenue forecast for each two-year biennium to the amount actually received and return any surplus to taxpayers.

Voters approved a ballot measure adding the kicker to the Oregon Constitution in 2000 and provided taxpayers with the option to donate their kicker to the State School Fund to help fund K-12 schools in Oregon.

When do we have a kicker?

After the biennium ends, if actual revenue collected exceeds the forecast amount by more than 2 percent, the revenue surplus is refunded to taxpayers as a tax credit claimed on their personal income tax returns in the even-numbered year of the next biennium.

On November 1, 2025 the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) certified that revenue collected for 2023-2025 biennium (July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2025) had exceeded the OEA forecast by $1.41 billion, the fourth largest surplus revenue amount in state history.

OEA further certified that Oregon taxpayers can receive a kicker credit on their tax year 2025 returns filed in 2026 equal to 9.863 percent of their Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024.

The kicker is returned to taxpayers as a tax credit.

The kicker is returned to taxpayers as a refundable tax credit, either reducing the amount of tax they owe or increasing their refund.

While there was a time when the kicker was returned to taxpayers in the form of a check, the 2011 Legislature changed the method of payment back to a tax credit claimed on returns filed in the even-numbered year of the biennium.

How much will my kicker be?

Taxpayers can use the Department of Revenue’s “What’s My Kicker?” calculator to determine the amount of their kicker.

Taxpayers can claim a kicker credit equal to 9.863 percent of their Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024. A taxpayer with a $5,000 Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024 would be able to claim a kicker credit on their tax year 2025 return of $493 ($5,000 x 0.09863). Only Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024 will count toward the kicker. Taxes paid in previous years and federal income taxes are not part of the kicker calculation.

Where can I find more information about the kicker?

You can find more information about the kicker and a link to the “What’s My Kicker?” calculator on the Oregon Department of Revenue website, including a list of frequently asked questions, and historic data listing the years of past kickers and their amounts.

At their City Council meeting on November 4, the Tigard City Council voted to donate $10,000 of their City Council funds to address food instability for the Tigard community.

The City will provide these funds to Packed with Pride as a match to donations from businesses and the community, up to $10,000. Packed with Pride is a food support program for students and families organized by The Foundation for Tigard Tualatin Schools, in partnership with the school district and Oregon Food Bank.

“I'm proud of our City Council for responding to this moment of need,” said Mayor Yi-Kang Hu. “One in six Tigard residents faces food insecurity, and that is unacceptable.  No one in our city should have to worry about where their next meal comes from. I know our community will step up, as we always do, to make sure every family has what they need.”

Packed with Pride, as well as other food pantries and service providers, have seen an uptick in people seeking support. Just last week, Pack with Pride reported 33 new families sought food assistance, and the organization saw its busiest day ever – feeding approximately 1,000 people.

The City invites individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to consider making a donation to a community service organization in support of food stability during these uncertain times.

“We all benefit when community comes together to support one another. This is a great opportunity for people to help,” added Acting City Manager Emily Tritsch.

Donations made to Packed with Pride in November will be matched dollar for dollar until November 20 and can be made here.

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EUGENE, Ore.— Three Honduran nationals have been charged with trafficking two kilograms of fentanyl.

Oscar Bonilla-Sandoval, 24, Jonathan David Matamoros-Carcamo, 22, and Jorge Adalberto Escoto-Andrade, 34, have been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl.

According to court documents, on October 30, 2025, an Oregon State Police K9 trooper stopped a Toyota Camry driving on Interstate 5 in Linn County after observing suspicious behavior and for a traffic violation. Bonilla-Sandoval was the driver of the vehicle, Matamoros-Carcamo was the front passenger, and Escoto-Andrade was in the back seat. The trooper deployed his drug detecting K-9 to the exterior of the vehicle who alerted to the presence of a narcotic odor on the lower passenger door seam. A search of the vehicle revealed a manufactured compartment or “trap” within the front passenger seat.  

Law enforcement accessed the compartment and located a Smith and Wesson revolver sitting on top of approximately two kilograms of suspected fentanyl with a street value of approximately $85,000. The fentanyl was wrapped in tape in two brick forms and sitting on tin foil covered in cinnamon, which is a method used by drug traffickers to avoid detection by drug detection canines. 

Law enforcement also seized approximately $10,000 in bundled cash with pink bands wrapped around it from Matamoros-Carcamo and approximately $3,000 in cash from Escoto-Andrade.

Defendants made their first appearances in federal court on October 31, 2025, before a Magistrate Judge and were ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oregon State Police, and Springfield Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case.

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

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

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

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

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.— A Colombian national made his initial appearance today after being arrested for his alleged role in a burglary ring that primarily targeted residents of Asian descent in Oregon and Washington.

Derinson Martinez-Grandas, 34, is one of seven individuals charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to transmit stolen property.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in early October 2025, Martinez-Grandas and six co-conspirators burglarized homes in Oregon and Washington by traveling from state to state, staying in short-term rentals secured by Martinez-Grandas, identifying and surveilling  potential burglary victims—who were all Asian business owners—and then performing reconnaissance on the victims’ residences.

The complaint and court documents allege that Martinez-Grandas and his co-conspirators employed signal jamming technology, perimeter countersurveillance, and seven-way group calls when carrying out their burglaries. They entered their victims’ homes by shattering glass doors. Once inside, they ransacked the residences, stealing large amounts of United States and foreign currency, jewelry, designer handbags, purses, wallets, travel documents, and other valuables. After the burglaries, the crew would return to their short-term rental and package the proceeds for transport, transfer, or transmittal.

Court documents allege that defendants first burglarized a home in Auburn, Washington on October 3, 2025, then burglarized a home in Eugene, Oregon, on October 6, 2025, and burglarized a third home in Salem, Oregon, on October 9, 2025. All were the homes of Asian business owners who were away working at their businesses. Between the Eugene and Salem burglaries, detectives with the Eugene Police Department became aware of the group’s movements and began surveillance. Following the burglary in Salem, detectives surveilled and identified that Martinez-Grandas and his co-conspirators returned to their rental in Eugene, which had been rented by Martinez-Grandas. Detectives obtained a search warrant for the rental that night.  

Upon execution of the warrant, investigators recovered money and property believed to be burglarized from the various residences, digital devices believed to be used by the burglary crew, evidence of money wires to Bogota, Colombia, and various Colombian travel documentation, including passports. As officers went to execute the search warrant, the burglary crew fled into a nearby wooded area. After several hours, law enforcement eventually detained all seven individuals. Investigators later performed searches of the devices, which revealed additional evidence of the conspiracy, including sending and receiving burglary coordinates, surveillance communications, and shared messages containing messages highlighting the burglary targets from the preceding days. 

“This multi-state operation deliberately targeted hardworking families and struck at the very core of personal safety – the victims’ own homes – instilling fear throughout multiple communities,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners for their tireless efforts to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”

“This robbery crew instilled fear and directed violence toward the hard-working small business owners who make this community special and unique,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Working with our partners at Eugene Police Department, we were able to disrupt their acts and hold them accountable for their actions.” 

“The District Attorney’s Office is solely interested in seeing these individuals held to account for the victimization of our community members,” said Lane County District Attorney Christopher J. Parosa. “We appreciate the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in helping local law enforcement achieve that end.”

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

William Estiven Rodriguez-Gaviria, 26, a co-conspirator, made his first appearance in federal court before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the District of Arizona. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Eugene Police Department with assistance from the Salem Police Department and the Auburn Police Department. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, in coordination with the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.

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

# # #

Salem, OR – November 6, 2025 – Salem Area Mass Transit District (Cherriots) has been awarded a Transportation and Growth Management (TGM) planning grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Department of Land Conservation and Development. The grant will fund the development of a Mobility Integration Plan to better connect local transit options and improve travel throughout the region.

The plan will bring together findings from three current studies Cherriots is conducting – on shared micromobility, microtransit, and the fixed-route bus network review – to design a coordinated transportation system that’s easier and more convenient for everyone to use.

“This grant will allow us to develop a cohesive vision and an integrated approach to how all of Salem-Keizer's transportation options can function together to build a more connected, accessible, and sustainable community,” said Shofi Ull Azum, Chief Planning and Development Officer at Cherriots. “Whether it’s a bus, a bike, or an on-demand ride, our goal is to make it seamless for people to get where they need to go.”

The Mobility Integration Plan will help guide how Cherriots expands service and coordinates new technologies in the coming years, to include the possibility of a single fare and trip-planning platform to link them together. By improving access and reducing reliance on personal vehicles, the project supports regional goals for safety, fairness, and environmental sustainability.

The planning process will include opportunities for public input as Cherriots works with local partners and stakeholders to shape the future of mobility in the Salem-Keizer community.

Albany Police Department detectives, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service-Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Medford Police Department, Central Point Police Department, Eagle Point Police Department and Oregon State Police arrested Alexzander Israel Bentley-Lopez, age 23, of Stayton, in Medford, Oregon, for crimes committed in Albany. 

Honoring Corporal Tom Millsap’s memory, we shared the news of his unexpected passing on Sunday, October 26th, while he was at home with family. Tom served in the Washington County jail beginning in 2001 and was a Veteran of the Army before joining the Sheriff’s Office. Tom’s dedication, easy-going demeanor, and quiet professionalism will be missed.

Tom’s family has chosen to provide details about the service so that those whose lives he touched can attend. The memorial service will be held on Monday, November 10th, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., at Scappoose High School (33700 SE High School Way).

For those wishing to, but unable to attend, the service will be streamed live on YouTube at the following link:

https://youtube.com/live/o7r4q1Ev7xY?feature=share  

Offers of prayer and condolences can be sent to:

Attn. Family of Tom Millsap

Washington County Sheriff's Office

215 SW Adams Avenue

Hillsboro Or. 97123

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation for its support in coordinating events during this incredibly difficult time, as well as the Clackamas and Multnomah County Sheriff's Offices for assisting our community so that others can attend. 

LINN COUNTY, Ore. 6 Nov. 2025 – Oregon State Police K-9 team traffic stop leads to seizure of fentanyl, a firearm, and cash.

On Thursday, October 30, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., an OSP K-9 trooper stopped a passenger vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 near milepost 216 in Linn County. During the stop, the trooper noticed signs of potential criminal activity and deployed drug detection K-9 Millie around the outside of the vehicle. K-9 Millie alerted to the possible presence of controlled substances. The trooper received consent to search the vehicle and discovered a hidden compartment. The search resulted in the seizure of two kilograms of fentanyl powder, a handgun, and a large amount of U.S. currency.

The driver, Oscar Joset Bonilla Sandoval (24), of San Francisco, California; passenger Jorge Adalberto Escoto Andrade (34), residence unknown; and passenger Jonathan David Matamoros Carcamo (22), residence unknown, were taken into custody and charged with drug-related offenses. The case has been referred to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available for release at this time.

# # #

About K-9 Millie

K-9 Millie was named by then 5-year-old Violet, who submitted the name as part of OSP’s “Name Our K-9” contest last year. She chose the name in remembrance of her twin sister, Millie, who had unexpectedly passed away earlier that year. Millie loved animals, and her family had been looking for a way to honor her memory. May the contributions of K-9 Millie serve as an ongoing remembrance of Millie Melton.  

OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

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

LINN COUNTY, Ore. 6 Nov. 2025 – Oregon State Police K-9 team traffic stop leads to seizure of fentanyl, a firearm, and cash.

On Thursday, October 30, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., an OSP K-9 trooper stopped a passenger vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 near milepost 216 in Linn County. During the stop, the trooper noticed signs of potential criminal activity and deployed drug detection K-9 Millie around the outside of the vehicle. K-9 Millie alerted to the possible presence of controlled substances. The trooper received consent to search the vehicle and discovered a hidden compartment. The search resulted in the seizure of two kilograms of fentanyl powder, a handgun, and a large amount of U.S. currency.

The driver, Oscar Joset Bonilla Sandoval (24), of San Francisco, California; passenger Jorge Adalberto Escoto Andrade (34), residence unknown; and passenger Jonathan David Matamoros Carcamo (22), residence unknown, were taken into custody and charged with drug-related offenses. The case has been referred to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available for release at this time.

# # #

About K-9 Millie

K-9 Millie was named by then 5-year-old Violet, who submitted the name as part of OSP’s “Name Our K-9” contest last year. She chose the name in remembrance of her twin sister, Millie, who had unexpectedly passed away earlier that year. Millie loved animals, and her family had been looking for a way to honor her memory. May the contributions of K-9 Millie serve as an ongoing remembrance of Millie Melton.  

OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

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

Across Oregon and our nation this week, we gather as communities in gratitude for the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. When they raised their right hand and swore that solemn oath, they pledged to protect something far greater than themselves: the rights and freedoms of every American. Veterans Day is our solemn duty to honor that enduring commitment and the generations who have carried it forward in defense of democracy and peace.

Those of us who have served know that the decision to wear our nation’s uniform is not one made lightly. It begins with an oath, a promise to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Since the founding of our Republic, generations of Americans have taken that same oath, pledging loyalty not to an individual or a crown, but to an enduring ideal — that all people are created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence next year, we are reminded that the American experiment was secured not only by words on parchment, but by those willing to stand in their defense. From the citizen-soldiers of the Revolutionary War to the service members of today’s all-volunteer force, each generation has answered the call to safeguard those freedoms.

Notably, this year also marks 250 years of continuous service by three of our nation’s oldest military branches — the United States Army, the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps. All three of which continue to embody the courage, discipline, and devotion that define our nation’s armed forces.

Oregon is home to more than a quarter of a million veterans, each with a story that deserves to be heard and remembered. Some of us served in the heat of battle; others supported missions from ships, bases, and hospitals around the world. Together, we represent every era, from those who fought in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam to those who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and countless operations in between. No matter the place or period, we all answered the same call to serve our nation and defend its ideals.

Every veteran reflects the strength and diversity of the nation we serve. We come from every walk of life, every community, and every corner of America and the world: rural and urban, coastal and inland, from every background, faith, and family story. Together, we embody the very fabric of this nation as a living testament to its promise that out of many, we are one. In our armed forces, Americans stand shoulder to shoulder not as strangers, but as equals, united by a shared oath and a shared belief in the enduring ideals of liberty and justice for all.

We defend the right to speak freely and to worship as we choose, to live without fear of tyranny or oppression, and to pursue our dreams in peace. We defend the rule of law, the equality of all people, and the democratic promise that our government exists to serve its citizens. On this day and every day, we honor the men and women who have sworn to defend those freedoms of a democracy and who have shouldered the responsibility of ensuring that our nation remains free, just, and strong.

When I meet with fellow veterans across our state, I am struck by the same thread of quiet resilience that runs through every story. We don’t think of ourselves as heroes. We think of ourselves as people who did our duty, who stood by our brothers and sisters, and who came home ready to continue serving in new ways as parents, teachers, public servants, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. That ongoing spirit of service is what keeps our communities strong and our democracy vibrant.

Veterans Day traces its origins to November 11, 1918, when the guns of the First World War finally fell silent. That moment marked more than the end of a conflict — it marked the beginning of a national commitment to peace, understanding, and unity. Each generation since has faced its own challenges, and each has produced men and women willing to step forward to defend the freedoms we hold dear. Those of us who have worn the uniform know that freedom is not guaranteed. It must be protected, nurtured, and renewed through each act of courage and compassion.

When we return home from service, our mission changes, but it does not end. We carry with us the lessons of the fragile ideals we served to defend through discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of integrity. We carry the memories of those who did not come home and the responsibility to honor them through our actions in this life.

At the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, we are committed to ensuring that every veteran, no matter their era of service, background, or life experience, has information and access to the benefits and services our nation and state have offered in gratitude for their service. That commitment extends not only to veterans, but to the families who have served alongside us. Spouses, children, and caregivers share the burdens of military life — the deployments, the moves, the uncertainty. They too deserve our nations gratitude and support.

True appreciation for veterans goes beyond parades and ceremonies, though those are important and joyful. It means ensuring that every veteran has access to quality health care, education, housing, and meaningful employment. It means reaching out to those struggling with the invisible wounds of service and reminding them that they are not alone. And it means continuing to strengthen the systems of care and connection that honor our shared promise: to take care of one another, just as we did in uniform.

And so, as part of your Veterans Day observance this year, I ask every Oregonian to take a moment to reflect. Think about the freedoms you enjoy and the people who have ensured those rights over our nation’s history. Remember those who never came home, and those who continue to serve around the world today. Reach out to a veteran in your life, not only to thank them, but to listen and to hear their story, to understand their journey, and to stand beside them in unity and gratitude.

We may have served in different places and at different times, but we are all part of the same legacy. Our shared service, our shared sacrifice, and our shared hope for a better future unite us as one people. Let us continue to build on that unity and to care for one another, to strengthen our communities, and to ensure that the freedoms we defended endure for generations to come.

May we always be a nation worthy of our veterans, and may we honor the truth that our strength as a nation comes from the unity and service of those who stand for something greater than themselves.
God bless our veterans, their families, and the United States of America.

Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels
Director, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels is a proud veteran of the United States Army and the Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA), overseeing agency operations, ensuring the availability and access of vital veteran services and programs for more than 275,000 veterans and their families across the state. 

The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office contracts with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe to provide medical examiner services. The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a death at ilani hotel.

This individual was found on 10/05/2025 in Ridgefield, WA.

The name of the decedent: Arslan   Age: 38 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

Place of injury: Hotel

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

Media release issue date: 11/06/2025

PHOTO OPP: High school students learning vet science—miniature donkeys in class Friday, November 14

KELSO, WA – On any given Friday morning in the Kelso area, you’ll find high school students taking a dog’s heart rate, preparing a cat for a blood draw, or deworming miniature donkeys. It’s all part of Kelso School District’s newest community cooperative off-campus course: Veterinary Science. The offering is one of only two high school programs of its kind in Southwest Washington. The year-long class is designed to give students hands-on experience in the science, skills, and compassion that define the veterinary field.

The program currently serves 16 students from Kelso, Kalama, and R.A. Long high schools, with capacity to expand to 24. Offered as part of Kelso’s Off-Campus Career & Technical Education (CTE) program, the class gives students real-world, industry-aligned training that mirrors the work of veterinary assistants and technicians.

“Students in our area grow up around farms, family pets, and rural animal care; and many have a passion for working with animals,” said Instructional Coach and Veterinary Science Instructor Lynda Carlson. Most of the students in class want to be veterinarians, while others plan to pursue veterinary technician certification or other careers involving animals. “This class offers them a true head-start, giving practical experience and industry knowledge.”

Inside the Classroom, students are learning:

• Veterinary medical terminology and charting
• How heart sounds are formed and measured
• Blood smear preparation and white blood cell differential testing
• Identification and treatment of common parasites
• Disease prevention, vaccinations, and animal husbandry practices
• Sterilizing surgical instruments and preparing animals for surgery

Each Friday, students work with live animals—including dogs, cats, kittens, and donkeys—gaining confidence and comfort in handling and observing different species.

Next week, students will travel to the Oregon State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Corvallis for their first field trip, offering a look into professional veterinary environments.

Career Outlook: Why This Pathway Matters

The career prospects for animal-care professionals are strong and continuing to grow, making this new course especially timely for students considering a future in the field:

• For veterinary technicians, employment is projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• For veterinarians, employment is projected to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, also well above the average for all occupations. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• These favorable outlooks reflect rising pet ownership, increased spending on animal health and wellness, and expanded treatment options—including advanced diagnostics and surgical care for animals.

Photo Opportunity: Miniature Donkeys Return to Class
Friday, November 14 | 8:00–9:30 a.m.
Media are invited to capture students working hands-on with miniature donkeys during their weekly live animal lab session. Classroom access and interviews upon request.

About Kelso’s CTE Program

Kelso School District’s CTE program offers approximately 80 on-site courses and 7 off-campus courses in partnership with industry leaders. Kelso’s off-campus CTE programs connect students with career pathways in high-demand fields—including Aviation Science, Diesel Mechanics, Fire Science, Health Science Careers, Industrial Trades, Police Science, and Veterinary Science. These courses are open to eligible 11th and 12th grade students from Kelso and surrounding districts. Students can earn dual credit in 21 CTE courses.

About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education and a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.

On November 5,2025 at 9:38 AM, HPD officers responded to a disturbance involving a weapon in the 1700 block of NE Sunrise Lane. Upon arrival, officers determined a homicide had occurred. Officers located the victim, Braeden Leachman (29), deceased inside the residence. The suspect, Jefferson Brown (28), was located deceased in the backyard. There is no danger to the public. The investigation is ongoing.

November 6, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.orgon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">fanny.l.white@oha.orgon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">ranny.l.white@oha.orgon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Oregon seeks $1 billion federal investment in rural healthcare

EUGENE, Ore.—A Red Bluff, California, man was sentenced to federal prison today for using social media to coerce a minor into sending him sexually explicit material.

Elijah McCabe, 27, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison and a 15-year term of supervised release.

According to court documents, in September 2023, McCabe posed as a minor on social media to trick a minor victim into sending him sexually explicit photos. McCabe threatened to share those images to friends and family to coerce the victim into sending child sexual abuse material (CSAM) – an act known as sextortion. The victim’s family contacted the police after learning an associate of the minor victim had received CSAM of the victim.

On June 7, 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at McCabe’s residence and found his cell phone floating in the tank of a toilet. McCabe was arrested after a search of his device found evidence of CSAM, specifically, the sexually explicit material McCabe coerced the victim to provide.

“We have a responsibility to protect our most vulnerable—our children. Child sexual exploitation has a devastating impact on victims, their families, and our communities. We will continue to work with our partners to find and hold these perpetrators accountable,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“While we count this sentencing as a success, it doesn't diminish the harm done to the victim, their family, and their friends,” said Doug Olson, FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge. “Our work will continue, and we will pursue those who prey on children, as well as to help victims of abuse access tools to help them heal.” 

On September 19, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a two-count indictment charging McCabe with Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Coercion and Enticement of a Minor.

On August 5, 2025, McCabe pleaded guilty to Coercion and Enticement of a Minor.

This case was investigated by FBI Portland with assistance from FBI Sacramento. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

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

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

SALEM– Nominations for the 2026 Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards Program are now being accepted. Criteria and application process can be found online through the Oregon Heritage website www.oregonheritage.org or by contacting Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator Katie Henry at katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov or (503) 877-8834. The deadline for submitting nominations is January 22, 2026.
 

The Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards recognize individuals, organizations and projects for outstanding heritage preservation efforts in Oregon, drawing public attention to these efforts, and raising the quality of heritage‐oriented activities. The Sally Donovan Award for Historic Cemetery Preservation is a special category that may be awarded to one individual, organization, or project demonstration excellence in preservation of historic cemeteries. 
  

In 2022 the Standout Heritage Volunteer category was added and is the only non-competitive category.
 

Nominations are encouraged for organizations and projects of all sizes and heritage purposes and for volunteers and professionals from all heritage sectors.
 

“Previous award recipients have illustrated the extraordinary ways that individuals and organizations connect communities to the past through experiences, dialogue, and preservation,” says Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator Katie Henry. “They inspire appreciation for our neighbors, our state, and ourselves as we look towards the future.”
 

For a list of previous award recipients, visit https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/pages/awards.aspx#one.
 

Those awarded an Oregon Heritage Excellence Award will be featured in videos presented at the 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference in Woodburn, April 29-May2. Recipients will also receive an award designed and created by Eastern Oregon artist, Alethea Brewer. This year’s awards artist selection process was done in partnership with Crossroads Carnegie Arts Center in Baker City.
 

There will be an awards Q&A online on Dec. 2 at 1pm for those interested in learning more.
 

For more information visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator Katie Henry at katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov or (503) 877-8834.

MISSING PERSON ALERT: The FBI is seeking information regarding a missing Tribal Elder from the Umatilla Reservation. Mr. Jones was last seen in Pendleton, Oregon on October 5, 2025. He may have traveled along the Umatilla River. Report tips to http://tips.fbi.gov or call Umatilla Tribal Police at (541) 278-0550.

FBI Missing Person Poster Here: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/wesley-dixon-jones

On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 1:47 p.m., deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a report of an unknown man pointing a gun at the caller near the 1000 block of S Alpine Street. As a deputy was arriving, the suspect went inside a house and would not come out.

Deputies requested the assistance of the Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT) and negotiators from the Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU) to help resolve the situation. Deputies applied for a warrant to enter the residence. After a short period, TNT operators used an explosive breach on a door to gain entry into the home. 41-year-old Luis Cambron-Flores exited the residence, and deputies arrested him for felony driving while suspended, menacing, and an outstanding misdemeanor warrant for arrest out of Washington County.

Deputies learned that Cambron-Flores was driving prior to the incident with a lifetime revoked driver's license, and the gun was an airsoft pistol. Thankfully, no one was injured.

If you witnessed this incident and have not spoken to deputies, please contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 57-25-1146. 

November 6, 2025

Media contact: Max Sprague, 971-288-8429, ague@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Max.Sprague@oha.oregon.gov

Dr. Steven Nakana named Oregon Health Authority’s Equity & Inclusion Division Director

PORTLAND, Ore– Dr. Steven Nakana has been appointed the new permanent director of Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Equity & Inclusion Division, effective Nov. 24, 2025.

Dr. Nakana, who has more than 15 years of leadership experience, most recently served as Director of Community Health Partnerships – Metro at CareOregon, where he directed Metro-wide health equity strategy -- collaborating with local leaders and community-based organizations to turn state health priorities into locally driven action. He also maintained performance dashboards and applied frameworks like Results-Based Accountability to monitor outcomes and address disparities. Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions at Portland Community College, Portland General Electric, Port of Portland and Mercy Corps, where he informed policy and system transformation, guided organizational equity strategies, implemented culturally responsive community investments to advance health access, designed inclusive community engagement structures and supported international peacebuilding and public health initiatives.

“Dr. Nakana’s experience reflects a consistent and unwavering commitment to equity, transparency and meaningful collaboration – values that align closely with our OHA mission,” said Sejal Hathi, MD, M.B.A. “We welcome him to our team as we continue our work toward eliminating health inequities in Oregon by 2030.”

Dr. Nakana was chosen through a national search supported by Motus Recruiting. He will replace Alfonso Ramirez, who has served as the division’s interim director and will return to his previous role as Behavioral Health Equity and Community Partnership Director in OHA’s Behavioral Health Division.

“Alfonso Ramirez has led our Equity & Inclusion Division at a critical time, championing division-wide success as we navigate federal changes and other challenges,” Dr. Hathi said. “I’m grateful for the compassion and commitment he has brought to the interim director role and for the important role he will continue to play in advancing our strategic goal.”

The appointment comes at a pivotal time. As communities in Oregon and across the region face growing challenges, the arrival of OHA’s new permanent Equity & Inclusion Director underscores the importance of equity work as the agency meets this moment with clarity, care and accountability. OHA remains committed to creating systems where everyone can thrive, guided by shared values and responsibility.

“I’m delighted to join OHA, an agency long committed to putting equity at the forefront of health policy and decisions,” Dr. Nakana said. “I look forward to collaborating with the OHA team and its many partners to improve the health and lives of all people across the state.”

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SALEM, Ore. - Trapping for Mediterranean oak borer (MOB) this summer showed this new pest from Europe, North Africa, and western Asia is now present across the northern Willamette Valley in at least six counties – Clackamas, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill. MOB is a concern because it has infested Oregon white oaks, sometimes with fatal consequences. The tiny beetles carry fungi that can infect a tree with a vascular wilt, which can lead to tree death.

Before now, state and federal officials did not know how extensive Mediterranean oak borer’s presence in Oregon might be. Individual borers had shown up in traps here and there in the Willamette Valley even before the first infested Oregon white oaks (Quercus garryana) were found in Troutdale and Wilsonville. So this summer they set up traps all over the Willamette Valley and beyond to try and determine where MOB had reached.

What they found was that more than 500 of the tiny borers turned up in more than 30 traps on both sides of the Willamette River from the Portland area south to Salem. Catch rates varied from a single borer at a number of traps to 160 at a trap east of Oregon City. The borers were even caught in locations where no Oregon white oak trees had been reported declining.

“The results show us that, unfortunately, Mediterranean oak borer is firmly and widely established in the northern Willamette Valley,” said Cody Holthouse, current chair of the state’s Interagency MOB Task Force.

Of 944 oak trees inspected since MOB was first detected in Oregon, a total of 38 are currently infested with MOB. Another 22 thought to be infested have been removed.

Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl leads the Oregon Department of Forestry’s efforts to track and evaluate MOB’s potential impact on trees in the state. She said that Oregon scientists are still trying to learn all they can about the borers and the fungus they carry.

“We still have a lot of questions about MOB that we’re working to find answers to,” said Buhl. One basic question is what other tree species potentially could be affected by MOB.

“So far in Oregon, only Oregon white oaks have shown signs of infestation,” said Buhl. “In California, other native oak species have been attacked and killed, including valley oak (Quercus lobata) and blue oak (Q. douglasii). In Europe, MOB has been reported in a large number of oak species, and even on some non-oak trees.”

Buhl said researchers don’t know what percentage of Oregon white oak trees might eventually become infested, let alone if they could start infesting other trees here.

“So far we haven’t seen widespread decline of Oregon white oak. In many cases, even trees near those that have been heavily infested have not shown signs of infestation or decline. This raises a question in my mind about whether MOB will prefer to infest stressed or otherwise unhealthy trees,” said Buhl.

Buhl points out seeing recent construction in the root zone of many of the trees infested with MOB. “This can lower trees’ ability to cope with a variety of pests and diseases,” said Buhl. She advocates for protecting the root zones of Oregon white oaks from disturbance, ideally up to twice the width of the tree’s canopy.

“My hope is there might not be widespread, rapid die-off of Oregon white oaks, like there is with emerald ash borer, which is killing most ash trees across the country,” said Buhl. She stressed that more research is needed to find out what level of resistance oaks might have to the fungus carried by MOB.

Oregon white oak is an important native tree growing from British Columbia into California. Numerous species of birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles rely on the long-lived tree for food and shelter. A number of Native American people have traditionally leached out bitter tannins from the tree’s acorns, then processed their kernels into an acorn flour used in various dishes.  

With funding from the USDA Forest Service, ODA hosted a multi-agency collaborative program to trap Mediterranean oak borer (MOB) in Oregon. That program, which ended in October 2025, aimed to improve the understanding of MOB distribution and pest status in the state. ODA has no more funding to continue coordinated trapping for MOB. The agency’s focus is shifting to supporting awareness, outreach, and detection through visual observations from professionals and the public.

An excellent article by Kayla Seaforth of the Bonneville Environmental Foundation summarizes what’s been learned about MOB in California and Oregon. Read it here.

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SALEM, Ore. — As fall settles across Oregon, the state’s Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are responding to several missions tied to mushroom foraging, hunting season, and sudden shifts in weather. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is reminding everyone to plan ahead, be prepared, and stay aware of changing conditions when heading outdoors.

“Oregon’s natural beauty draws thousands of people outside each year, but even experienced adventurers can find themselves in trouble when the weather changes suddenly,” Oregon’s state search and rescue coordinator, Scott Lucas, said. “We want everyone to enjoy their time outdoors safely—no one expects to become lost or stranded, but preparation makes all the difference.”
 

With colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and unpredictable weather patterns, OEM urges Oregonians and visitors to take a few simple steps before venturing out:

• Plan ahead and check the forecast. Conditions can change rapidly in Oregon’s forests, mountains, and coastal areas.
• Research your destination and route. Know the terrain, difficulty, and available resources.
• Pack essential safety items, including extra food and water, warm clothing, an emergency mylar blanket, a flashlight, map, first-aid kit, and fully charged phone or radio.
• Tell someone your plan—where you’re going, when you expect to return, and when to call for help if you don’t check in.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing off route, especially when foraging or tracking game.

Each year, hundreds of highly trained SAR volunteers across Oregon respond to calls for lost or injured hikers, hunters, and foragers. Many of these incidents are preventable with proper preparation and communication.

“Oregon’s SAR volunteers are among the best in the nation,” Lucas said. “They’re ready to help—but the goal is for everyone to make it home safely without needing rescue.”

Be Prepared Before You Go

Whether you’re heading out for a day hike, hunting trip, or foraging adventure, always carry the 10 Essentials:

1. Navigation (map and compass or GPS) and a whistle
2. Headlamp or flashlight
3. Sun protection
4. First-aid kit
5. Knife or multi-tool
6. Fire-starting materials
7. Shelter (such as a tarp or mylar blanket)
8. Extra food
9. Extra water
10. Extra clothing

For more information on outdoor safety and emergency preparedness, visit www.oregon.gov/OEM and follow @OregonOEM on social media for ongoing safety updates and seasonal preparedness tips.

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead 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 regardless of cause. 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 OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

Marion County Search and Rescue (SAR) team assisted today, Nov. 6, 2025, in the successful rescue of two lost hunters near French Creek. Several volunteers responding to this mission also participated in the recent Clackamas County search earlier this week—logging nearly 20 hours within the last 24 hours in challenging terrain and severe weather.

Despite limited rest and soaked gear from prior operations, volunteers once again deployed without hesitation. Working through heavy rain, 20–40 mph winds, and rugged terrain, they located and safely escorted the hunters out of the area.

This incident also serves as an important reminder for anyone entering remote areas: always carry a satellite-capable phone or InReach device. In this rescue, searchers were able to pinpoint the hunters’ location using a cell phone SMS link through SARTopo, placing searchers within feet of the lost hunters.

Marion County Sheriff's Office extends deep appreciation to its dedicated volunteers and partner agencies for their tireless service- often in the harshest of conditions. Their continued commitment exemplifies the strength of teamwork and public service.

If you are interested in joining our SAR team, you can directly reach out to SAR Coordinator Sgt Garrett Olson at GOlson@co.marion.or.us.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Tristen Dilinger Evans and Blake Ryan Evans.

Tristen Dilinger Evans, age 17, and Blake Ryan Evans are children in foster care who went missing from Eugene in October, they were found on Nov. 6.

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

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

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VISOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

Victims can sign up to receive automatic notifications regarding the transfer or release of adults in custody (AIC). In 2023, Victim Information System in Oregon (VISOR) was the notification system that replaced the VINE notification system. Below is more information about VISOR and how it can help keep you informed.

VISOR is a free, computer-based service that allows you to check on an offender’s custody status either in a county or state facility. It also allows you to register to receive automatic notification when an adult in custody (AIC) is released or transferred.

How do I use VISOR?

• Register online at: Home (oregon.gov)
• Email VISOR: visor@doc.oregon.gov
• Leave a voicemail for VISOR: 888-749-8080

You may locate an AIC using basic information such as the name or offender number to search for the AIC you want to register for.

• VISOR will give you the AIC’s custody information and invite you to register for free notification by phone call, email, or text if the status changes of the AIC
• Click in the “search bar” where you can conduct a statewide search of offenders and register to receive notifications of a change in custody status of the offender: Home (oregon.gov)
   

How do I register with VISOR?

You will need to provide:

1. A telephone number or email
2. Search for the AIC you want to register for
3. Choose a preferred notification delivery method

You may create an account in VISOR if you wish. Creating an account will allow you to choose how and when you receive notifications, it will allow you to view recent notifications that were sent to you, allow you to change your personal information, and allow you to unregister.

You also have the option to remain anonymous when registering instead of creating an account.

Important VISOR Facts

• VISOR will send you a notification when the AIC you registered for is released, transferred, escapes, or is deceased.
• All registrations and personal information with VISOR are, and will remain, confidential.
• You may register more than one phone number or email.

NOTE: Do not depend on the VISOR service as your only protection. If you feel you may be at risk, take precautions as if the offender has already been released.
 

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

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Join Prairie High School’s Drama Club for a dazzling night of music, empowerment and unforgettable performances as students take the stage to perform Six the Musical: Teen Edition. Based on Henry VIII’s six wives, this high-energy show combines history with a singing competition to give the women a chance to tell their own stories in a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power! 

Tickets can be purchased online in advance. The cost is $7 for students, $12 for senior citizens and $15 for adults. VIP tickets with seating in the first five rows also are available for $25. The show is rated PG-13 for brief discussions of trauma.

All shows will be held in the Prairie High School auditorium (11311 NE 119th St., Vancouver). Showtimes:

• Friday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. 

• Saturday, Nov. 15, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

• Friday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m.

• Saturday, Nov. 22, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Our contact center is seeing an uptick in requests for financial assistance with sewer, stormwater, and water bills. We want Portlanders to know that as their financial circumstances change, they may become eligible for one of the many assistance programs we have for our customers.  

“We know many Portlanders have been struggling for months (or years) with rising costs, job loss, and other financial pressures--and the federal shutdown is making it even harder,” said Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light. “If you're worried about your ability to pay your bill, please call us. We’re doing everything we can to make sure our customers can continue to access clean, safe drinking water.”

Here’s how we can help:

• Income-based financial assistance is available at higher income thresholds than many realize. For example, a household of four is eligible for bill assistance up to gross income of $6,205 per month.
• Sometimes the unexpected happens. For customers facing a temporary hardship—such as a recent furlough, job loss, or medical emergency—our crisis vouchers can offset up to $500 of their sewer, stormwater, and water bills.
• Regardless of income, any customer can request a payment arrangement to make bill payment more manageable with features like extended due dates or breaking bills into multiple payments. We also offer the option to receive statements monthly instead of quarterly.
• And if you receive bill discounts from other utilities, you may qualify for reduced payments from Portland Water. 

We encourage Portlanders to share this information with anyone in their communities who might need it.

Journalists should reach out to Public Information Officer Brandon Zero at the contact information below to interview the Water Bureau’s Financial Assistance Program Manager Kenny Scott for more information. See our media kit here.

If you have questions about your situation and how we can help, reach out to our customer service team at CustomerService@portlandoregon.gov%E2%80%A6">PWBCustomerService@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-7770.

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

Access and accommodations

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

At 4:07 a.m. today, residents at a home in the 600 block of NE Evergreen Road in Hillsboro reported hearing smoke alarms and called 911. A resident checked the smoke alarms and found flames in the home's living room. Residents then evacuated outside.

A Hillsboro Fire & Rescue incident commander arrived and found smoke emanating from the front of the house. The call was upgraded to a first alarm to bring additional resources to the scene. Arriving moments behind the incident commander, firefighters from Engine 5 initiated entry into the home with hose lines to search for and extinguish the fire. Simultaneously, firefighters from Truck 5 began searching for the occupants or pets in the house. Firefighters knocked down the fire burning through the home's front windows and spreading inside, where it was first reported. Additional crews accessed the roof to cut a ventilation hole to help clear heated gas and smoke, improving conditions for firefighters working inside. After the initial fire knockdown, firefighters continued their efforts through the home to search for and extinguish hot spots.

Firefighters searching the home confirmed that all residents and pets had been safely evacuated and that no one else was inside. No injuries were reported. In total, three adults and three dogs were safely accounted for. A public safety chaplain responded to the incident to provide comfort and assistance to the residents. He learned that one of the residents was scheduled for a medical procedure this morning and alerted the incident commander and fire crews. The resident was only able to escape wearing sleepwear and needed clothing and medications pertinent to their health. Firefighters re-entered the home to help the resident retrieve clothing that was safe to wear. They also located and retrieved the necessary medications. Further, a Hillsboro police officer assisted at the incident. Initially, the officer provided incident safety by slowing and diverting traffic as needed around emergency responders and apparatus staged along NE Evergreen Road. He then assisted the residents by temporarily sheltering their dogs in his patrol vehicle until they could be safely transferred to a family member’s vehicle and care. Three adult residents and three dogs were displaced because of the fire. Family members arrived at the scene to provide additional support and care.

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

Hillsboro Police, AMR Ambulance, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Portland General Electric, NW Natural Gas, and Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains assisted at the incident.

Video of fire apparatus staged along NE Evergreen Road, taken by the incident Public Information Officer, approved for use by news media: https://youtube.com/shorts/pp2SC9eFvIs?feature=share 

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County will honor local veterans during a Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 10, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis. The event will include the reading of a Veterans Day proclamation during the Board of Commissioners meeting followed by remarks by County leaders and special guests honoring veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Benton County will also receive two national awards from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR):

• County Administrator Rachel McEneny will receive the Patriot Award for her outstanding support of a recently deployed employee who serves in the Oregon National Guard.
• Board Chair Nancy Wyse will accept the Seven Seals Award on behalf of Benton County, recognizing the County’s strong commitment to service members and their families.

Event Details

When: 9 – 9:30 a.m. – Board of Commissioners Meeting, Proclamation Reading, Award Presentation

Where: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis

Who:

• Benton County Board of Commissioners
• COL Paul Dyer, Commander, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon National Guard
• Mark Lapinskas, Benton County Lead Veterans Service Officer
• Cecil Owens, ESGR State Chair
• Kenzie Singiser, OSU Music Program, National Anthem

Benton County has a history of supporting military veterans and families, including many who are part of the County’s workforce. The Board of Commissioners continues this tradition each year by recognizing Veterans Day and Military Appreciation Month in Benton County.

“From the support I received from our Finance Department, Human Resources, and County Commissioners and Administrator before I left, to the send-off my coworkers organized, I always felt cared for,” said Cory Grogan, Benton County Public Information Officer and Oregon National Guard member who returned in September from a year-long deployment in Kosovo. “Knowing my job was secure while I was away allowed me to focus fully on my mission and serve more effectively. Benton County truly shows what it means to value service and stand behind those who serve.”

In 2023, the County hosted a Veterans Day gathering and proclamation reading at the Kalapuya Building to honor employees who served in the Armed Forces. Watch the video from that event here: Veterans Day 2023 — Benton County, Oregon.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Gresham, Ore.— After receiving multiple tips from the community, police have identified the suspect in a Halloween altercation at a Gresham drive-thru as 64-year-old David Mead Sr.  Officers located and arrested Mead early Wednesday evening. 

Through their investigation, officers determined the weapon Mead brandished was a compressed-air powered device designed to fire irritant or kinetic projectiles.  The design, coloration, and operation of the device mimic a firearm.  While it is not illegal to possess this kind of self-defense tool, displaying it or any replica firearm during a dispute can cause the situation to escalate and may lead to criminal charges. 

Mead was booked into Multnomah County Jail, where he faces charges of Unlawful Use of a Weapon and three counts of Menacing. 

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank our community and media partners for their assistance with this investigation.

Correction: Operator of the International Harvester is last of Shepherd.

Sherman County, Ore. (Nov. 5, 2025)- On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 5:35 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 43, in Sherman County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Chevrolet Impala, operated by Eric Neal Barton (66) of Corvallis, crossed into the southbound lane and struck a southbound International Harvester commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Preston Dejion Shepherd (35) of Hanford (CA), near the rear drive tires.

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

The operator of the International Harvester (Shepherd) was reportedly uninjured.

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

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

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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.

Salem, Ore. — At their November 10 meeting, the Salem City Council will consider donating $20,000 to the Marion Polk Food Share for their work in supporting families impacted by the suspension of SNAP benefits that took effect on Nov. 1. 

The Salem City Council is considering this action while employees across the organization are in the midst of an annual charitable giving campaign. Employees can direct donations to Marion Polk Food Share through the campaign. The charitable giving campaign, which has raised more than $8,000 from City employees so far, is slated to end Dec. 5. The City asks members of our community to join together in support of their neighbors in need.

“Our neighbors who rely on — or plan for — this assistance to supplement their household food budgets and feed their families did not receive it Saturday,” said Salem City Manager Krishna Namburi. “As of today, as much as half of the funding for November may be released soon. As federal support is restored, it will take time for the support to reach households. In the meantime, every bit we can offer helps. I encourage our community to come together, as Salem always does, to support families and neighbors in need.”

Federal partial payments may be made to states to reinstate SNAP benefits. When states receive this partial funding, the administration announced that procedural difficulties will likely delay the partial SNAP benefits from reaching households in November. If approved by Council, the City’s donation would be available to Marion Polk Food Share immediately.

More about finding help. Residents in need of immediate food support are encouraged to explore the following resources:

• Call 211 for assistance connecting to local food programs and emergency services.
• Visit 211.org to locate nearby food banks, pantries and community meal programs.
• Visit foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org to search for local food distribution sites throughout Oregon.

If you are looking for a way to help local community members impacted by the disruption, please visit https://marionpolkfoodshare.org/ways-to-give/.

More about SNAP. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly food benefits to help individuals and families by providing access to healthy food. Federally funded and administered through the Oregon Department of Human Services, SNAP benefits are available to Oregon residents who meet certain income guidelines. In 2024, 1 in 6 Oregon residents received SNAP benefits and more than 54 percent of SNAP participants are in families with children, 37 percent are older adults or disabled and 41 percent are in working families.^[1]  SNAP benefits are provided to eligible low-income individuals and families through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card for buying groceries.

SNAP funds ensure that families don’t have to choose between rent and food or medical care and their next meal. A total of 46,392 households in Marion and Polk counties receive SNAP benefits; 29,713 of those who benefit are children. The average benefit across both counties is $334 per month. The total amount of SNAP benefits distributed to families in those two counties every month is $15.6 million — which is more than the total value of food the Marion Polk Food Share distributes in a year.[2]

More about Marion Polk Food Share. Marion Polk Food Share distributes food for individuals and families to more than 70 local partners, including food pantries and meal sites, and delivers Meals on Wheels to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities.

• Marion Polk Food Share - Food Assistance in the Mid-Valley.

Salem, Oregon – Grant awards totaling $ 1,759,580 will be distributed to 355 Oregon arts organizations through the Oregon Arts Commission’s Sustaining Arts Program for fiscal year 2026.

In 2025, the Arts Commission reimagined this grant program to provide a more equitable distribution of funds to arts organizations. Awards are determined based on a newly updated funding formula that considers an organization’s annual expenses, number of applications and available grant funds. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $20,000, and these unrestricted awards are available to nonprofit arts organizations that offer public arts programs throughout the year.

“This program is an important example of how the Oregon Arts Commission fulfills its commitments to continue invigorating the economic, cultural and creative expressions of our diverse state,” shares Commission Chair Subashini-Ganesan Forbes. “The extensive grantee list highlights the number of arts organizations operating with impeccable vision to nourish and energize their respective communities.”

FY2026 Sustaining Arts Program grants awards by region:

Central

Group A

Bend Pops Orchestra, Bend: $2,368

Central Oregon Mastersingers Inc., Bend: $2,368

Opera Bend, Bend: $2,368

Sisters Festival of Books, Sisters: $2,368

Group B

Beat dba BEAT Children’s Theatre, Bend: $5,000

BendFilm, Bend: $6,725

Cascade School of Music, Bend: $8,183

Cascades Theatrical Company, Bend: $5,916

High Desert Chamber Music, Bend: $5,000

Scalehouse, Bend: $5,000

SFF Presents, Sisters: $8,149

Sunriver Music Festival Inc, Sunriver: $5,000

The High Desert Museum, Bend: $17,748

The Museum at Warm Springs, Warm Springs: $6,062

Tower Theatre Foundation Inc., Bend: $10,042
Central total: $92,297

Greater Eastern – North

Group A

Inland Northwest Musicians Inc., Hermiston: $2,368

Group B

Arts Council of Pendleton, Pendleton: $5,000

Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts, Pendleton: $5,916

Oregon East Symphony, Pendleton: $5,000

Eastern North total: $18,284

Greater Eastern – South

Group A

Drexel H. Foundation, Vale: $2,368
 

Group B

Painted Sky Center for the Arts, Canyon City: $5,000

Eastern South total: $7,368

Portland Metro

Group A

21ten Theatre, Portland: $2,368

Airlie Press, Portland: $2,368

A Notion, A Scream, Portland: $2,368

Aspen Meadow Band, Colton: $2,368

Aurora Chorus, Portland: $2,368

Bach Cantata Choir, Portland: $2,368

Bells of the Cascades, Tualatin: $2,368

Bridging Voices, Portland: $2,368

Cada Casa International, Portland: $2,368

Cascadia Chapter of National Association of Composers, Portland: $2,368

Cathedral Park Performing Arts Collective, Portland: $2,368

Classical Up Close, Tigard: $2,368

Conchords Chorale, Tualatin: $2,368
Conduit Dance aka Shaun Keylock Company, Portland: $2,368

enTaiko, Portland: $2,368

Fear No Music, Portland: $2,368

Fool House Art Collective, Lake Oswego: $2,368

Friends of IFCC (FoIFCC), Portland: $2,368
Frogtown, Portland: $2,368

From the Ground Up: A Research and Development Center for New Art, Portland: $2,368

Future Prairie, Portland: $2,368

Greater Portland Flute Society, Portland: $2,368

Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre Northwest, Portland: $2,368

Hillsboro Symphony Orchestra, Hillsboro: $2,368

In Mulieribus, Portland: $2,368

ISing Community Choir, Beaverton: $2,368

Lake Oswego Open Studios, Lake Oswego: $2,368

Light Opera of Portland, Hillsboro: $2,368

Lo Nuestro Folklore of Washington County, Tigard: $2,368

Many Hats Collaboration, Portland: $2,368

Media-Rites, Portland: $2,368

New Moon Productions, Portland: $2,368

Northwest Dance Theatre, Tualatin: $2,368

Oregon Bluegrass Association, Portland: $2,368

Oregon Chorale Inc., Hillsboro: $2,368

Oregon Korean Performing Arts, Beaverton: $2,368

Oregon Symphonic Band, Beaverton: $2,368

PDX Pop Now!, Portland: $2,368

Performance Works NorthWest, Portland: $2,368

Piano Santa Foundation, Portland: $2,368

Portland Area Theatre Alliance, Portland: $2,368

Portland Chamber Music, Portland: $2,368

Portland Child Art Studio, Portland: $2,368

Portland in Color, Portland: $2,368

Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble, Portland: $2,368

Portland Fire Fighters Pipes and Drums, Portland: $2,368

Portland Radio Project, Portland: $2,368

Portland Symphonic Choir, Portland: $2,368

Portland Wind Symphony dba Pacific Crest Wind Symphony, Portland: $2,368

PUSH FOLD, Portland: $2,368

Radix Vocal Ensemble, Portland: $2,368

Renegade Opera, Portland: $2,368

Risk-Reward, Portland: $2,368

S1, Portland: $2,368

Shady Pines Radio, Portland: $2,368

Stage Fright, Portland: $2,368

Stages of Life, Portland: $2,368

STAGES Performing Arts Youth Academy, Hillsboro: $2,368

Steps for Youth, Portland: $2,368

Swingin’ Sounds, Portland: $2,368

Takohachi Inc, Portland: $2,368

The Artback, Estacada: $2,368

The Wave Elements Global Music, Portland: $2,368

Tilikum Chamber Orchestra, Portland: $2,368

Tualatin Valley Community Band, Tigard: $2,368

Tualatin Valley Symphony, Tigard: $2,368

Unlock the Arts, Portland: $2,368

Westside Orchestra Association, Hillsboro: $2,368

Women in Film-Portland, Portland: $2,368

Woodland Sung Productions, Portland: $2,368

Zephyr Clarinet Choir, Tigard: $2,368

Group B

45th Parallel Universe, Portland: $5,000

Advance Gender Equity in the Arts, Portland: $5,000

Alberta Abbey Foundation, Portland: $6,069

All Ages Music Portland dba Friends of Noise, Portland: $6,077

All Classical Public Media, Inc., Portland: $15,776

Architectural Foundation of Oregon, Portland: $7,560

Artichoke Community Music, Portland: $5,000

Art in Oregon, Portland: $5,000

Art In The Pearl, Portland: $5,000

Artist Mentorship Program, Portland: $5,000

Artists Repertory Theatre, Portland: $11,832

Arts Action Alliance Foundation dba Clackamas County Arts Alliance, Oregon City: $5,000

A-WOL Dance Collective Inc., Portland: $5,916

Bag & Baggage Productions, Hillsboro: $6,062

BodyVox Inc, Portland: $7,948

Boom Arts, Portland: $5,000

Bridgetown Conservatory of Musical Theatre, Portland: $5,000

Broadway Rose Theatre Company, Tigard: $11,832

Caldera, Portland: $11,832

Camp45 Contemporary, Portland: $5,916

Cappella Romana Inc, Portland: $6,484

Cerimon House, Portland: $5,000

Chamber Music Northwest, Portland: $10,202

Clackamas Community College Foundation – Clackamas Repertory Theatre, Oregon City: $5,423

CoHo Productions Ltd, Portland: $5,916

Corrib Theatre, Portland: $5,000

Cracked Pots, Inc, Portland: $5,000

Curious Comedy Productions, Portland: $5,916

Echo Theater Company, Portland: $6,732

Ethos Inc., Portland: $7,830

Experience Theatre Project, Beaverton: $5,000

Film Action Oregon, Portland: $13,804

Friends of Chamber Music, Portland: $6,062

Gather:Make:Shelter, Portland: $5,916

Hand 2 Mouth, Portland: $5,916

Hellenic-American Cultural Center & Museum of Oregon and SW Washington, Portland: $5,000

Imago the Theatre Mask Ensemble, Portland: $5,916

In a Landscape, Portland: $6,510

Independent Publishing Resource Center Inc., Portland: $5,000

Jazz Society of Oregon, Portland: $8,489

Kickstand Comedy, Portland: $5,916

Lakewood Theatre Company, Lake Oswego: $10,168

Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland: $11,832

Literary Arts, Inc., Portland: $13,804

Live Wire Radio, Portland: $6,062

Lovegood Performing Arts Company, Beaverton: $5,000

Metroarts Inc., Portland: $5,000

MetroEast Community Media, Gresham: $10,237

Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Portland: $6,995

Miracle Theatre Group, Portland: $5,916

Montavilla Jazz Festival, Portland: $5,000

Music Workshop, Portland: $5,916

My Voice Music, Portland: $6,062

Native Arts & Culture Foundation, Portland: $11,832

New Expressive Works, Portland: $5,000

North Pole Studio, Portland: $5,916

Northwest Alliance for Alternative Media and Education, Portland: $6,529

Northwest Children’s Theater & School Inc, Portland: $10,897

Northwest Professional Dance Project, Portland: $8,805

OK You Inc, Portland: $5,000

Old Church Society Inc, Portland: $6,568

Open Hearts Open Minds, Portland: $5,000

Open Space, Portland: $6,062

Orchestra Nova Northwest, Portland: $5,916

Oregon Arts Watch, Portland: $5,423

Oregon BRAVO Youth Orchestras, Portland: $8,092

Oregon Center for Contemporary Art, Portland: $5,916

Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts, Portland: $5,000

Oregon International Ballet Academy, Portland: $5,000

Oregon Public Broadcasting, Portland: $8,403

Oregon Repertory Singers, Portland: $5,916

Oregon Society of Artists, Portland: $5,916

Oregon Symphony Association, Portland: $19,720

Oregon Symphony Association in Salem, Portland: $5,423

Outside the Frame, Portland: $5,916

Pacific Youth Choir, Portland: $5,000

PassinArt: A Theatre Company, Portland: $5,916

Phame Academy, Portland: $6,425

Play It Forward, Beaverton: $6,070

PlayWrite, Portland: $5,000

Portland Actors Conservatory, Portland: $5,916

Portland Art Museum, Portland: $19,720

Portland Baroque Orchestra, Portland: $7,531

Portland Chamber Orchestra, Portland: $5,000

Portland Community Media dba Open Signal, Portland: $11,832

Portland Drama Club, Portland: $5,000

Portland Experimental Theatre Ensemble, Portland: $5,000

Portland Gay Men’s Chorus, Inc., Portland: $6,062

Portland Institute for Contemporary Art, Portland: $10,015

Portland Japanese Garden, Portland: $19,720

Portland Jazz Festival, Inc. dba PDX Jazz, Portland: $7,306

Portland Lesbian Choir, Portland: $5,000

Portland Opera Association Inc, Portland: $17,748

Portland Piano International, Portland: $5,916

Portland Playhouse, Portland: $9,860

Portland Revels, Portland: $5,916

Portland Street Art Alliance, Portland: $5,916

Portland Taiko, Portland: $5,000

Portland Youth Philharmonic Association, Portland: $8,348

Profile Theatre Project, Portland: $6,344

Regional Arts & Culture Council, Portland: $19,720

Resonance Vocal Ensemble, Portland: $5,000

Scarlet Sails Cultural Foundation, Beaverton: $5,000

SCRAP Creative Reuse, Portland: $7,511

Shaking the Tree Theatre, Portland: $5,000

Sticky Culture, Portland: $5,000

Stumptown Stages, Lake Oswego: $5,916

The Beaverton Arts Foundation, Beaverton: $11,832

The Portland Ballet, Portland: $6,818

The Red Door Project, Portland: $6,585

The Vanport Mosaic, Portland: $5,000

Third Angle New Music Ensemble, Portland: $5,000

Third Rail Repertory Theatre, Portland: $5,916
triangle productions, Portland: $5,000

Vibe of Portland, Portland: $5,000

Western Alliance of Arts Administrators Foundation, Portland: $7,676

White Bird, Portland: $7,625

Willamette Light Brigade, Portland: $6,173

World Stage Theatre, Troutdale: $5,423

Write Around Portland, Portland: $5,916

Young Audiences of Oregon Inc dba Arts for Learning Northwest, Portland: $9,056

Young Musicians & Artists, Portland: $5,916

Youth Music Project, West Linn: $9,565

Portland Metro total: $1,066,685

Mid-Valley

Group A
Confluence: Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus, Salem: $2,368

Festival Chorale Oregon, Salem: $2,368

Focus on Book Arts, Monmouth: $2,368

Keizer Creative Art Association, Salem: $2,368

Keizer Homegrown Theatre, Keizer: $2,368

Make Music Salem, Salem: $2,368

McMinnville Film Festival Foundation, McMinnville: $2,368

Oregon Artists Series Foundation, Salem: $2,368

Oregon Community Theatre Alliance, McMinnville: $2,368

Oregon Spirit Chorus aka Sweet Adelines International, Salem: $2,368

Salem Big Band, Salem: $2,368
Salem Orchestra, Salem: $2,368

Salem Philharmonia Orchestra, Salem: $2,368

Salem Pops Orchestra, Salem: $2,368

Salem Symphonic Winds, Salem: $2,368

Western Oregon University Development Foundation, Monmouth: $2,368

Willamette University – Theatre 33, Salem: $2,368

Group B
Casa de la Cultura Tlanese, Salem: $5,000

Chehalem Center Association, Newberg: $7,157

Friends of the Visual Arts dba Willamette Art Center, Salem: $5,000

Historic Elsinore Theatre Inc, Salem: $10,895

Pentacle Theatre, Salem: $5,916

Salem Art Association, Salem: $7,089

Salem Multicultural Institute, Salem: $5,000

Western Oregon University Development Foundation – Rainbow Dance Theatre, Monmouth: $5,000
Yamhill Enrichment Society (YES), McMinnville: $5,423

Mid-Valley total: $96,736

North Central

Group A

Cascade Singers, The Dalles: $2,368

Group B

Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association, Hood River: $5,000

North Central total: $7,368

North Coast

Group A

Arts Council of Clatsop County, Astoria: $2,368

Astoria Arts and Movement Center, Astoria: $2,368

Astoria Visual Arts, Inc, Astoria: $2,368

Bay City Pearl & Oyster Music Festival, Bay City: $2,368

C.C. Stern Type Foundry, Clatskanie: $2,368

Cartm, Manzanita: $2,368

Cascadia Concert Opera, Astoria: $2,368

Columbia Chorale of Oregon, Saint Helens: $2,368

Neah-Kah-Nie Coast Art Music and Cultural Foundation dba NCAM Foundation, Rockaway Beach: $2,368

Neskowin Chamber Music, Pacific City: $2,368

North Coast Chorale, Astoria: $2,368

One Tree Project, Warren: $2,368

The Writer’s Guild, Astoria: $2,368

Tolovana Arts Colony, Cannon Beach: $2,368

Trail’s End Art Association, Gearhart: $2,368

Group B

Hoffman Center for the Arts, Manzanita: $5,000

Liberty Restoration Inc., Astoria: $7,409

Ten Fifteen Productions, Astoria: $5,000

North Coast total: $52,929 

Northeast

Group A

Grande Ronde Symphony Association, La Grande: $2,368

Group B

Crossroads Creative and Performing Arts Center Inc., Baker City: $5,916

Eastern Oregon Regional Arts Council Inc DBA Art Center East, La Grande: $5,000

Fishtrap Inc, Enterprise: $5,916

Friends of the Opera House, Elgin: $5,916

Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, Joseph: $5,423

Northeast, total: $30,539

South Central

Group A

Klamath Folk Alliance (aka Klamath Music), Klamath Falls: $2,368

Group B

PLAYA, Summer Lake: $5,423

South Central, total: $7,791

South Coast|
Group A

Dolphin Players Inc., Coos Bay: $2,368

Oregon Coast School of Art, Gardiner: $2,368

Redfish Music Festival, Port Orford: $2,368

Riverbend Live!, Winston: $2,368

Group B

Artula Institute for Art and Environmental Education, Bandon: $7,619

Coos Art Museum, Coos Bay: $5,000

Egyptian Theater Preservation Association, Coos Bay: $5,000

Umpqua Valley Arts Association, Roseburg: $5,916

South Coast total: $33,007 

Southern

Group A

Art Presence, Inc., Jacksonville: $2,368

Ashland New Plays Festival, Ashland: $2,368

Fusion Performing Arts Alliance, Grants Pass: $2,368

Guitar Society of Southern Oregon, Ashland: $2,368

Jefferson Pipe Band, Gold Hill: $2,368

Kapi Oanuenue, Ashland: $2,368

North American Folk Music & Dance Alliance dba Ashland Flute Circle, Medford: $2,368

Rogue Valley Wind Ensemble dba Rogue Valley Symphonic Band, Talent: $2,368

Siskiyou Singers Inc., Ashland: $2,368

Siskiyou Violins, Medford: $2,368

Southern Oregon Film Society, Ashland: $2,368

Southern Oregon Guild, Cave Junction: $2,368

Group B

Anima Mundi Productions, Phoenix: $5,000

Camelot Theatre Company, Talent: $7,523

Collaborative Theatre Project Inc, Medford: $5,000

Grants Pass Museum of Art, Grants Pass: $5,000

Peter Britt Gardens Arts and Music Festival Association, Medford: $15,776

Rogue Valley Art Association, Medford: $5,000

Southern Oregon Repertory Singers, Ashland: $5,000

Southern Oregon University Foundation – Chamber Music Concerts, Ashland: $5,000

Youth Symphony of Southern Oregon, Medford: $5,000

Southern total: $86,715

South Valley/Mid Coast

Group A

Applegate Art Guild, Veneta: $2,368

Applegate Regional Theatre Inc, Veneta: $2,368

Artist Studio Association, Lincoln City: $2,368

Arts and Business Alliance of Eugene, Eugene: $2,368

Coastal Voices, Newport: $2,368

Corvallis Guitar Society, Corvallis: $2,368

DisOrient Asian American Film Festival of Oregon, Eugene: $2,368

Eugene Gay Men’s Chorus, Eugene: $2,368

Eugene Springfield Community Orchestra, Eugene: $2,368

Florence Regional Arts Alliance, Florence: $2,368

Free Shakespeare in the Park Theatre Company, Eugene: $2,368

Integrated Arts (DBA Harmonic Laboratory), Eugene: $2,368

Mid-Valley Productions, Albany: $2,368

New Zone Gallery, Eugene: $2,368

Oregon Brass Society, Eugene: $2,368

Oregon Coast Youth Symphony Festival Association, Newport: $2,368

Rose Women’s Choir, Eugene: $2,368

Pacific International Choral Festivals, Eugene: $2,368

Santiam Hearts to Arts, Mill City: $2,368

Scandinavian Cultural Foundation, Junction City: $2,368

Soromundi Lesbian Chorus of Eugene, Eugene: $2,368

Tri-County Performing Arts Inc aka Generations Arts Academy, Harrisburg: $2,368

Willamette Valley Symphony, Albany: $2,368

Women’s Choral Society, Springfield: $2,368

Group B

Adventure! Children’s Museum, Eugene: $5,000

Arts & Culture Project dba Radiant Arts, Eugene: $5,000

Ballet Fantastique, Eugene: $6,051

Chamber Music Amici, Eugene: $5,000

Community Center for the Performing Arts, Eugene: $6,062

Comunidad y Herencia Cultural, Springfield: $5,000

Corvallis Arts Center Inc., Corvallis: $5,916

Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center, Corvallis: $5,000

Corvallis Youth Symphony Association, Corvallis: $5,000

Cottage Theatre, Cottage Grove: $5,423

Eugene Ballet Company, Eugene: $11,832

Eugene Concert Choir Inc, Eugene: $5,916

Eugene Opera, Eugene: $5,916

Eugene Springfield Youth Orchestras, Eugene: $5,423

Eugene Symphony Association Inc., Eugene: $11,832

Instaballet, Eugene: $5,000

Joint Forces Dance Company, Eugene: $5,000

Lane Arts Council, Eugene: $8,140

Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts, Eugene: $5,916

Maude I. Kerns Art Center, Eugene: $5,423

Maxtivity, Philomath: $5,000

Neskowin Coast Foundation aka Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, Otis: $8,213

Orchestra Next, Eugene: $5,000

Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Newport: $7,465

Oregon Contemporary Theatre, Eugene: $6,042

Oregon Mozart Players, Eugene: $5,000

Polly Plumb Productions, Yachats: $5,000

Shedd Institute for the Arts, The John G., Eugene: $11,832

Siletz Bay Music Festival, Lincoln City: $5,000

University of Oregon – Oregon Bach Festival, Eugene: $10,627

Willamette Jazz Society, Eugene: $5,000

Wordcrafters in Eugene, Eugene: $5,000

South Valley/Mid Coast total: $259,861 

Grant category key:
Group A organizations operate with annual expenses less than $150,000.
Group B organizations operate with annual expenses equal to or greater than $150,000.

Region and counties key:

Central (Jefferson, Deschutes and Crook Counties)

Greater Eastern North (Gilliam, Morrow, Umatilla, Wheeler and Grant Counties)

Greater Eastern South (Harney and Malheur Counties)

Portland Metro (Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas Counties)   

Mid-Valley (Yamhill, Polk and Marion Counties) 

North Central (Hood River, Wasco and Sherman Counties)

North Coast (Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook Counties) 

Northeast (Wallowa, Union and Baker Counties)

South Central (Klamath and Lake Counties)

South Coast (Douglas, Coos and Curry Counties)

South Valley/Mid-Coast (Lincoln, Benton, Linn and Lane Counties)

Southern (Josephine and Jackson Counties) 

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.

Update 11/5/2025 5:35pm

The Clark County Sheriff's Office, with assistance from federal and local agencies, has made three arrests in this case. MCU Detectives developed probable cause and were granted warrants for the arrests of three suspects for Murder in the First Degree related to this investigation.

On 10/30/2025 Tyresse Hammer, age 24, of Beaverton, OR, was arrested with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (USMS PNVOTF) and Woodburn Police Department in Woodburn, Oregon. He was booked into the Marion County Jail, where he is pending extradition to Clark County, on Murder in the First-Degree charges.

Today, on 11/5/2025, Cristian Russell, age 22, of Hillsboro, OR, and Lucy Montoya, age 23, of Scappoose, OR, were also arrested with assistance from the USMS PNVOTF and Hillsboro Police Department. They were booked into the Washington County Jail and are also pending extradition to Clark County on Murder in the First-Degree charges.

Investigators believe that Hammer, Russell, and Montoya were involved in a plan to commit armed robbery and steal a Dodge Challenger Hellcat parked at an apartment complex located at 9413 NE 19^th Ave, in Vancouver, WA. During the robbery, the vehicle owner, Jacob Hall, age 40, of Vancouver, WA, was shot and killed. The three involved suspects fled the scene in Montoya’s red Lexus sedan. The same sedan was recovered later in the day in Multnomah County, OR. 

The investigation is still active and anyone with information is asked to call the CCSO Major Crimes Unit Tip Line at 564-397-2847.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the immense assistance provided by our Oregon Law Enforcement and US Marshals Service partners.

Update 10/27/25 9:35am

The vehicle of interest in this case was located in Multnomah County. The public provided many tips, and we would like to thank them for their assistance with this investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing. 

On 10/26/2025 at 7:49am, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to reports of a shots heard in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 9400 block of NE 19th Avenue in Vancouver, WA. Multiple callers reported hearing a series of gunshots in the parking lot of the complex.

On arrival, CCSO patrol deputies located an adult male victim in the front seat of a vehicle with a gunshot wound. The victim did not survive.

Witnesses reported that two black males, wearing masks, were seen going back and forth between the victim vehicle and a red Lexus after hearing the shots. The two male suspects then left the parking lot in the Lexus before making it to Interstate 5 and heading south into Portland. The vehicle was reportedly last seen taking Exit 307 in Portland.

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating this homicide.
 

Detectives are looking for a dark red Lexus ES 350 sedan, that has a shattered rear window, rear end damage, and broken tail light. 

The suspects are believed to be two black males, possibly in their early 20s.

The occupants should be considered armed and dangerous and not be approached.

If the vehicle is seen or anyone has information about this incident, please call 911.

Updates will be made as more information becomes available.

Malheur County, Ore. (Nov. 5, 2025)- Oregon State Police investigators are asking the public for information regarding a serious injury crash that occurred on Highway 95 (Bus.) in Annex, OR.

On Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 3:22 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 95 (Bus.), near the intersection with Deck Street, in Annex. The crash occurred when an unknown pickup “brake checked” a Harley Davidson motorcycle.  The motorcycle swerved to the left to avoid a collision with the unknown truck but collided nearly head-on with a pickup travelling in the opposite direction.  The crash caused serious injuries to the driver and passenger of the motorcycle.

The involved vehicle was described as a lifted, white or gray, two-door, 4x4, Toyota Tacoma, possibly around a 2015 model, with an Idaho license plate. The pickup may have a sticker in the rear window. It was last seen traveling into Weiser (ID).

Anyone who may have seen the individual in the area, or who has dash cam footage, is asked to contact OSP’s Southern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-2068 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-455662.

# # #

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.

Who: Oregon State Correctional Institution (OSCI) in partnership with WorkSource Oregon, Opportunity Oregon, and Oregon Corrections Enterprises.

What: This is the seventh fair that has been held within the Oregon prison system in 2025. The career fair is a collaborative effort between the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC), Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE), WorkSource Oregon, and Opportunity Oregon. Each partner plays a vital role, from coordinating logistics to recruiting employers and resource providers.

 Key contributors include:

1. Opportunity Oregon: Plans, organizes, and spearheads each event, coordinating employer, union, and resource provider recruitment.

2. Oregon Corrections Enterprises: Sponsors refreshments, prepares participants, and showcases in-prison work training programs.

3. WorkSource Oregon: Recruits employers statewide to connect with tomorrow’s workforce.

4. Oregon Department of Corrections: Coordinates the event, hosts meals and tours, and supports adults in custody with preparation.

These career fairs create meaningful opportunities for adults in custody to connect with employers, unions, and reentry resources, building pathways to successful careers, lowering recidivism, strengthening the economy, and creating safer communities.

RSVP: to Nathan Warren via email at Nathan.D.Warren@doc.oregon.gov no later than :00 PM on Thurssday, November 6, 2025. A background check is required for access into the facility. A list of equipment, tripods, batteries, microphone, cameras, etc. will be needed.

When: November 7, 2025

Check in at 7:15 AM

Opening Announcements at 8:00 AM 

Where: Oregon State Correctional Institution

3405 Deer Park Drive SE, Salem, Oregon 97310

Malheur County, Ore. (Nov. 5, 2025)- On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 11:17 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 201, near milepost 17, in Malheur County.

The preliminary investigation indicated northbound Pontiac G5, operated by Phillip Earl Kinstrand (70) of Vale, entered the southbound lane for unknown reasons and struck the trailer of a southbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle, operated by Zachary Dean Piper (46) of Fruitland (ID).

The operator of the Pontiac (Kinstrand) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger in the Pontiac, Kayla Diane Harlan (35) of Ontario, was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Freightliner was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Ontario Police Department and Ontario 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.

On November 5, 2025, at around 12:00pm, the Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) responded to threats made by a subject to a local bank. During the investigation, deputies determined the subject threatened to use a bomb at the bank and also assault banking staff at the location.

CCSO deputies, with assistance from the SW Washington Regional Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, served a search warrant in the 4700 block of NE Saint James. There was a large police response in the area for several hours. The subject was taken into custody without incident.

CCSO arrested 62 year old Kit Morrison for Felony Harassment and Threats to Bomb, he was booked into the Clark County Jail.

Study will be discussed at a County Council work session, Nov. 12

Vancouver, Wash. - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county hired a consultant, ECONorthwest, to conduct an agricultural resource lands study which was released this week.

The study focuses on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas, including areas that currently have agricultural and rural zoning. The study evaluates state and local criteria to help identify lands that are used or capable of being used for agricultural production. The county held two open houses in September and October to provide information on the study and gather feedback from community members.

The agricultural lands study does not include policy recommendations or recommend changes to land designations. The data within the report will be utilized to inform decision makers and the public in the selection of a preferred alternative that will be further analyzed as a part of the comprehensive plan update.

The consultant that produced it will give the Clark County Council an informational briefing as a part of a work session in November. The work session is open to the public, however there will be no public comment as part of the event. Public comment on the study will take place in early 2026 as a part of a discussion on the preferred alternative.

The work session will be held on Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor hearing room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex. Information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the council’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.

Clark County has not performed a countywide agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994.

Comments on the agricultural lands study and the comprehensive plan update can be submitted in the following ways:

• On the county website: https://bit.ly/2025CPComments
• By email: comp.plan@clark.wa.gov
• By mail: Community Planning, Comprehensive Plan Update, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice. at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to two reported house fires within 90 minutes of each other. Both were linked to home heating causes.
 

At 11am Bend Fire was called to a home on Evie Dr where occupants reported smoke coming from their fireplace. The fire was found to be limited to the gas insert fireplace. Wood had been added to the gas fireplace insert and turned on. The wood ignited and, as the fireplace was not designed for this type of fire, started to smoke inside the house and through exterior vent. The fire was extinguished with minimal damage to the house and contents, but the insert will need to be replaced. All 3 occupants evacuated safely, and damage was limited to the insert, about $2500.
 

This is a good reminder to always use heating appliances as designed. Whether it’s a gas fireplace insert, a space heater, or outdoor propane heater, always follow the manufacturers guidelines on safe operation. A common issue we see this time of year is when outdoor heaters are brought into unventilated spaces such as garages, shops, or enclosed tents. The outdoor heaters produce a large quantity of carbon monoxide. If the heaters are not ventilated the CO can build up and create a hazardous atmosphere.
 

The second fire was reported at 12:20 by the property owner on Deschutes Market Rd. The owner was on site and had lit a fire in a woodstove inside an unused manufactured home. Shortly after the fire started, smoke was seen coming from the roof and he called 911. Crews arrived quickly and began fighting the fire. The high winds today spread the fire in the concealed roof space as crews attempted to extinguish it. The fire was eventually stopped but the 1978 manufactured home is considered a complete loss ($10,000).

In this case the woodstove had not been used for many years and it’s unknown the condition of the flue or attic space before the fire was started. Having your woodstove inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional can greatly lessen the chance of these types of fires. They can ensure the flue is still properly connected, that no combustibles have made contact with the flue in the past year, and that the flue is thoroughly cleaned from any creosote buildup.  Burning clean dry firewood will ensure a good clean fire and reduce the creosote buildup over the winter.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prevent-fires/heating/

Clackamas County, Ore. (Nov. 5, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of four deer, which were butchered and subsequently dumped and wasted off South Elwood Road outside Colton, Oregon, Clackamas County.

On Tuesday, November 4^th, 2025, a reporting party located a large amount of deer meat and front and rear deer quarters thrown into the bushes off South Elwood Road, just east of South Benzinger Road in Colton. An Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife trooper arrived on scene and located the decaying remains of four deer that had been butchered elsewhere and taken to the area where the parts were thrown into dense vegetation on Port Blakely Tree Farm property. Three of the deer were discovered to have been killed with archery equipment. The deer parts were likely dumped in the area between Friday, October 31^st, 2025, and Sunday, November 2^nd, 2025.  

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number #SP25-457045

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 for illegally obtaining an Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information, visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Monmouth, OR – Officers from the Monmouth Police Department responded to a report of a suspicious device at approximately 300 Hoxton Avenue, near a construction site. Construction workers discovered the device and promptly notified the authorities.

Upon arrival, officers assessed the device and collaborated with the Salem Bomb Squad for identification. As a precautionary measure, several residents in the vicinity were advised to shelter in place or temporarily evacuate until the Bomb Squad concluded their investigation.

The device was subsequently identified as a hoax and was safely removed from the site. Residents and construction crews were able to resume their normal activities shortly thereafter. This investigation remains ongoing.

# # #

Ridgefield High School Theatre is proud to present its fall play, Almost, Maine — a heartwarming and whimsical production set in a remote, fictional town where love is discovered, lost, and found again in the most unexpected ways. On a magical, clear, and cold midwinter night, the residents of Almost, Maine experience a series of charming and surreal encounters that explore the complexities of love and connection.

Performance Dates and Times:

• Friday, November 7 at 7:00 p.m.

• Saturday, November 8 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

• Friday, November 14 at 7:00 p.m. (Senior Night Recognition)

• Saturday, November 15 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are available for purchase online in advance or at the door on the day of each performance.

• Adults: $10

• Students: $8

• Students with ASB card: $5

Reserve your seats today by visiting thersd.org/AlmostMaine.

Polk County, Ore. (Nov. 5, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of deer in Polk County. 

On Friday, October 24^th, 2025, a landowner overheard three gunshots on his private property located off Burbank Road and Gage Road in rural Polk County. The landowner drove down the road and observed an older white Dodge or Chrysler Town and Country style minivan with both driver and passenger doors ajar parked on the county road next to his property. No occupants were observed near the vehicle. The minivan was later observed by the landowner driving east on Burbank Road towards Highway 223.

Polk County deputies arrived on scene and located two deceased (doe) deer on the landowner’s property. An Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife trooper arrived on scene, and field dressed the deer. The deer were delivered to the Salem Union Gospel Mission for food donation. Investigation remains open.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov.

Please reference case number #SP25-446304

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 for illegally obtaining an Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information, visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

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, November 18, 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.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve August 19, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Christopher Mattison, PSI No. 088425

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0120, 259-060-0130, 259-060-0135, 259-060-0136, 259-060-0300, 259-060-0310, 259-060-0320, and 259-060-0380

   Related to Emergency Suspension

   Presented by Jennifer Howald

5. Agency Update

6. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – February 17, 2026, 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.

Salem, OR — Today, the Marion County Board of Commissioners signed a proclamation recognizing November 11, 2025, as Veterans Day in Marion County, honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans through Operation Green Light.

The proclamation reaffirms Marion County’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families, promoting awareness of veteran issues, and fostering partnerships with local organizations that serve those who have worn the uniform.

“Veterans of the United States Armed Forces have defended our nation’s freedom in times of war and peace, and their continued service strengthens our communities,” the proclamation states.

This year’s proclamation also acknowledged the 250th anniversaries of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, recognizing their enduring role in safeguarding liberty and democracy.

As part of Operation Green Light, Marion County buildings will be illuminated in green from November 5 through November 12 as a visible tribute of gratitude and unity with veterans and their families. We encourage residents, businesses, and community organizations to join in displaying green lights as a symbol of honor and appreciation.

“Marion County is proud to stand with our veterans and their families,” said Commissioner Danielle Bethell, Chair. “We encourage all residents to honor, thank, and support the veterans in our community and across the nation—not only on Veterans Day, but every day of the year.”

After votes were tallied on November 4, 2025, it was evident that voters in Washington County supported funding the Public Safety Levy. Confirmation of the vote will take place on December 1, 2025, and is a testament to the long-standing community support.

Thank you to the voters of Washington County for passing Measure 34-346 and supporting a comprehensive public safety system. For 25 years, the Public Safety Levy has effectively endorsed a wide range of services to keep the Washington County community safe. Thanks to your ongoing support, we will have the necessary resources for a countywide law enforcement response, proper jail staffing, timely prosecution, effective parole and probation supervision, vital assistance for victims, juvenile justice services, and continued funding for our Mental Health Response Team. It is an honor to serve this community, and we appreciate your continued support. 

Sheriff Massey provided the following statement of appreciation. “I want to express my sincerest gratitude to the residents of Washington County for your trust and support. In approving the Public Safety Levy, especially during this season of economic uncertainty, you have sent a powerful message: that public safety matters, and that you value the service of our deputies and professional staff who serve Washington County every day. Your support will help ensure Washington County remains a safe place to live, work, raise families, and thrive. On behalf of the entire Sheriff's Office, thank you for standing with us and for one another.”

District Attorney Kevin Barton said, “We are so grateful that Washington County voters voiced their strong support for our public safety system by passing the public safety levy.  These results send a clear message that our community supports public safety, even during these difficult economic times.  We are committed to ensuring that we keep Washington County a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office and Crime Stoppers of Oregon, is asking for the public’s help with information related to the murder of 19-year-old Emily Rose Taylor.

On November 6, 2023, at around 11:00 p.m., deputies responded to a report of gunfire in Estacada. Investigators determined that Emily Taylor was shot and killed while riding as a passenger in a vehicle. Detectives believe one or more individuals fired at the vehicle, striking Taylor.

Two years have passed since Emily’s death, and investigators continue to pursue every lead. Detectives believe there are individuals with information about this case who have not yet come forward.

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office are urging anyone with information—no matter how small it may seem—to submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Oregon.

Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 for information reported to Crime Stoppers of Oregon that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime, but tipsters must remain anonymous.  Secure and anonymous tips can be left at www.crimestoppersoforegon.com, or you can visit the app store and download P3 tips for smartphones or tablets.

Lake Oswego School District (LOSD) Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Lake Oswego community for its overwhelming approval of the district’s $245 million school bond, Measure 3-628. Early election returns show the measure passing with more than 70 percent approval; final results will be certified by election officials at a later date.

“On behalf of our school board, educators, and staff, we are deeply grateful to our Lake Oswego community for once again showing such strong support for our schools,” said Dr. Schiele. “This bond’s passage reflects our shared commitment to educational excellence and our collective belief in providing safe, inspiring spaces where every student can learn and thrive. Thank you to every voter who participated, and to the many volunteers, parents, staff, and students who helped share our story. Your dedication and heart made all the difference. This vote is an investment in the future of Lake Oswego, and your trust and partnership humble us.”

The citizen-led campaign Building Great Lake Oswego Schools was chaired by Heather Ramsey with steering committee members Teresa Aguilera, Mark Birge, Lindsey Boccia, Courtney Clements, Erin Quand, and John Wallin, alongside all Lake Oswego School Board members. Representatives from every school, neighborhood, and numerous community organizations contributed to the campaign’s success.

“I want to thank the community for stepping up,” said Ramsey. “So many people brought their expertise, passion, and love for our schools to this effort. They executed it beautifully. I couldn’t be prouder of what we accomplished together.”

Lake Oswego School Board Chair Kirsten Aird added, “We are so proud of our Lake Oswego community. The passage of this bond ensures our district has the resources needed to remain a leader in achieving academic excellence. An investment in our school buildings is an investment in our students. It’s inspiring to see our community come together for our students today and tomorrow.”

About the 2025 School Bond Measure

Measure 3-628 marks the final phase of a three-part initiative to build safe, resilient, and modern schools in Lake Oswego. The $245 million bond is projected to maintain LOSD’s current estimated bond tax rate of $2.90 per $1,000 of assessed property value, with no increase anticipated.

Bond funds will support:

• Enhanced safety and security measures at every school.

• Replacement of Forest Hills and Lake Grove Elementary Schools, the district’s two oldest buildings dating back to the 1940s, on their current sites.

• Upgrades and expansions to classrooms for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and Career Technical Education (CTE) at Lake Oswego and Lakeridge High Schools, the Community Transition Program, and Palisades World Language School.

“Our community has been clear, they support safe schools and strong academic programs, and they value our ability to deliver both without increasing the current bond tax rate,” said Dr. Schiele. “This bond allows us to fulfill our promise to modernize facilities and provide safe, future-ready learning environments for every student.”

The district will issue the bonds in multiple series, each with a maturity of up to 26 years. The measure continues LOSD’s strong record of financial transparency, including regular audits and oversight by a citizen Bond Accountability Committee to ensure responsible spending and progress monitoring.

About Lake Oswego School District

The Lake Oswego School District is Oregon’s top-rated large K-12 public school district, dedicated to fostering a culture of belonging and educational excellence. LOSD serves approximately 6,800 students across 11 schools. Located just south of Portland, Lake Oswego is known for its vibrant community, natural beauty, and outstanding public schools.

SALEM, Oregon— As this year comes to a close, Oregon State Parks is looking back on 2025 and planning for the 2026 season.  

This year Oregon State Parks welcomed millions of visitors, maintained nearly 1,000 miles of trails, hosted hundreds of events including mushroom hikes and star parties and finished dozens of projects from the restoration of the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse to repaving the campground at Silver Falls State Park.  

State parks also updated many of its fees to reflect increasing costs and decreasing Oregon State Lottery funding. Depending on the fee, the last update was anywhere from seven to 15 years ago.

Staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors for the 2026 season with guided hikes, seasonal events and outdoor adventures. To help visitors enjoy the more than 250 state parks and know what to expect next year, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department gathered the upcoming updates in one place.  

Winter 2025: 

• Green Friday (Nov. 28):  Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits on Green Friday. 

Beginning January 1, 2026: 

• First Day Hike (Jan. 1): Guided hikes at select parks. Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits for First Day Hikes. 

• 12-month parking permits will increase from $30 to $60 for Oregon residents and to $75 for out-of-state residents due to the out-of-state surcharge.  

• 24-month parking permits will not be sold in 2026. Existing permits will be honored until they expire.  

• Oregon State Parks will no longer sell Oregon Pacific Coast Passports but will honor passports purchased in 2025 until they expire.  

• Oregon State Parks will no longer honor Jackson County parking permits. 

Winter/Spring 2026 

• OPRD is considering updates to its Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy. The proposed changes would update the rules around cancellations, refunds, special access passes and rate ranges starting as soon as Feb. 2026. The proposed changes are designed to improve the long-term financial sustainability of the state park system and maximize the availability of campsites for visitors by encouraging early cancellation. Public comment is expected to run from December 1 to January 15, 2026. Final approval is required by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. 
   
• Additional parks will require a parking fee. The specific parks and implementation date is still being finalized. 
   
• Implement fees to use dump stations at Oregon State Parks to support the cost of that service.  
   
• State Parks Day (June 6), will continue to offer free parking for Oregon residents. Camping fees will no longer be waived on that day pending approval of the proposed Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy updates.  

“The changes are critical to sustaining state park operations and services now and for the future. We appreciate visitors’ continued support as these necessary changes are implemented,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Director (OPRD) Director Lisa Sumption.  

OPRD is projecting at $14 million budget shortfall this biennium due to decreasing lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding.  OPRD does not receive general fund tax revenue for operations.  

OPRD will continue to review and update fees and operations to keep providing high-quality visitor experiences and sustain parks now and in the future. 

In addition to increasing fees, OPRD is also streamlining costs, planning to add more cabins and yurts to expand capacity and increase revenue and looking for new partnerships and sponsorships to help build a more sustainable funding future. 

Vancouver, WA - The Clark County Historical Museum invites the community to welcome the winter season and discover one-of-a-kind, last-minute gifts at the Winter Native Arts Market on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration highlights the region’s vibrant Indigenous cultures through art, music, and storytelling.

Guests can explore and shop from 17 Native artists and makers showcasing a stunning variety of handcrafted works—jewelry, textiles, carvings, prints, and more. Each purchase directly supports Indigenous artists and helps sustain their cultural traditions and creative expression.

Adding to the festive spirit, award-winning Native American flute musician Sherrie Davis will perform throughout the day, providing a beautiful and soulful soundtrack for the event.

In addition to the market, museum admission will be free all day, offering visitors the chance to experience exhibitions that share the stories and heritage of Southwest Washington—including those of the region’s first peoples.

For more information, visit cchmuseum.org or call 360-993-5679

Media Contact:

Sammuel Hawkins

Outreach & Public Programs Manager

Clark County Historical Museum

Outreach@cchmuseum.org | 360-993-5679

The Oregon State Marine Board filed a notice of proposed rulemaking with the Secretary of State’s Office on October 30, to solicit public comments on the proposed rule language to implement the Waterway Access Permit whitewater exemption per HB 2982 from the 2025 legislative session. The exemption pertains to boats under 10 feet in length, engaging in Class IV or higher whitewater runs that are not accessible from an improved boating facility.

The Marine Board approved the staff recommendation referencing GIS technology as a better aid to boaters for visualizing specific waterways with Class IV and higher whitewater rapids, where permits would be exempt. Using this map application and a new data layer, boaters can select the “Proposed Whitewater Exemption” layer to comment on the specific river segments being proposed for the permit exemption. Visit the agency’s Boat Oregon Online Map.

Agency staff compiled the data with assistance from the American Whitewater Association and additional references to whitewater rapid segments, combined with Marine Board data on waterway access facilities.  

Additionally, agency staff will hold a hybrid-style public hearing on December 4, 2025, from 11 am to 1 pm. The meeting will be held at the agency’s office, 435 Commercial Street NE, in Salem. The public can also participate online. The Board will meet in January 2026, and may make a motion to adopt, amend, or take other action on the proposed rulemaking.

Written comments will be accepted until December 15, by 11:55 pm. Comments can be submitted by email to .rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov?subject=Public%20comment%20on%20HB%202982%20WW%20Exemption">osmb.rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov or by U.S. Mail to Jennifer Cooper, Administrative Rules Coordinator, Oregon State Marine Board, 435 Commercial Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. Testimony will not be accepted by telephone.

Additional Resources:

• October meeting materials from the Marine Board’s Public Meetings page and public hearing information, including the virtual public hearing link.
• New Rules and Notices page with the notice for public comment.

-End-

More than 264 residents across Clark, Klickitat, and Cowlitz counties safely disposed of 760 pounds of unwanted medications during a regional Drug Take-Back event held on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

The free, drive-thru disposal event was held at 11 locations, including police departments in Battle Ground, La Center, and Ridgefield, Pendleton Woolen Mills in Washougal, Walgreens in Longview, Walmart in Castle Rock, and the Klickitat County Courthouse in Goldendale. Community members were encouraged to bring prescription and over-the-counter medications, along with vape pens and e-cigarettes (with batteries removed), for safe disposal.

The biannual event, organized by local prevention coalitions, law enforcement, and public health partners, offers a safe, secure, and environmentally friendly way for residents to dispose of unused medications and prevent misuse before it begins.

“Every person who participated took an important step in protecting their loved ones and our community,” said Kelley Groen-Sieckmann, ESD 112 Community Prevention Project Coordinator. “Safely disposing of medications prevents accidental poisonings and helps stop prescription misuse before it starts.”

All medications collected were securely transported and incinerated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, ensuring they are kept out of landfills and local waterways.

The Impact:

• 760 pounds of unused medications collected
• 264 residents participated
• 11 collection sites across three counties
• Prevention of misuse, poisonings, and environmental contamination

Events are made possible through funding from the Clark County Opioid Abatement Council and the Washington State Health Care Authority Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery.

If you missed this event, year-round medication disposal options are available. Visit www.medtakebackwashington.org to find nearby drop-off locations or request a free mail-in envelope. Residents can also take the pledge to lock their medications and learn more about at-home safety at www.LocksSaveLives.org.

About Prevent Coalition

Prevent Coalition, supported by ESD 112, works to prevent youth substance use and promote health and safety across Southwest Washington. Through education, collaboration, and advocacy, Prevent empowers communities to build environments where young people can thrive. Learn more at www.preventcoalition.org.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Centralia, Washington, man pleaded guilty yesterday to damaging a Portland area energy facility.

Nathaniel Cheney, 31, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of damaging an energy facility.

According to court documents, on November 28, 2022, Cheney and others caused $26,000 of damage to the Sunnyside substation in Clackamas, Oregon, by damaging the control equipment necessary for the operation of the substation.

On March 12, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Cheney with damaging an energy facility.

Cheney faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on February 18, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Cheney has agreed to pay restitution in full as recommended by the government.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau Investigation with assistance from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh and Geoffrey Barrow, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

November 5, 2025

Media Contact:  Kim Lippert erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

Innovative high school program equips students for behavioral health careers

SALEM, Ore. –An initiative to build a more diverse, culturally responsive behavioral health workforce is preparing Oregon students for a future career in the field.     

High school juniors and seniors are gaining real world experience to explore potential career paths in behavioral health through the High School Behavioral Health Career and Technical Education (CTE) grant program offered in the Salem- Keizer School District and—new this school year—in Sunset-Beaverton and Lane County school districts. 

“Students report the program is helping them prepare for their future and understand themselves and others better,” said Casey Reid, PhD, behavioral health pathway specialist, Lane Education Service District. “We are excited to prepare Oregon’s future behavioral health workforce and build the culture of schools along the way in ways that are supportive of students and communities.” 

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is supporting three High School Behavioral Health CTE programs for the first time with $185,000 grant funding from Senate Bill 5525, passed in 2023. This is the Salem-Keizer School District’s second year with their Behavioral Health CTE program and the first year for Sunset- Beaverton and Lane County School districts’ behavioral health CTE programs. 

 “These programs are doing more than preparing students for careers,” said OHA OHA’s Behavioral Health Division Director Ebony Clarke. “They’re creating access, breaking down barriers and building a future where Oregon’s behavioral health workforce reflects the communities it serves.”

Here are some highlights from the first year of funding: 

Salem-Keizer Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) 

• 43 students completed paid internships under the supervision of industry professionals.
• 20 students earned Peer Support Specialist (PSS) certifications.
• 25 students earned Qualified Mental Health Associate – Registered (QMHA-R) certifications.
• Provided paid transportation to rural students, ensuring equitable access to the program.

Sunset-Beaverton School District 

• 16 students completed the first year of the new CTE pilot program (51 students are enrolled for 2025–26).
• Funding helped convert classroom space into clinical-style environments and hire a full-time program coordinator.
• Program recognition by the Oregon Department of Education expanded access to students from all 27 district high schools.

 Lane County School District 

• 41 currently enrolled students represent nine high schools (four programs are on-site and one is a fully online pilot launched this fall — the first in Oregon).
• All program educators received certification in Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid.
• Students are collaborating with community organizations to create peer support programs to bring timely help directly to schools.

The High School Behavioral Health CTE program supports OHA’s strategic plan to eliminate health inequities by 2030, contributing to a trained behavioral health workforce that reflects the lived experiences and cultural backgrounds of Oregon’s youth. 

For more information on the High School Behavioral Health CTE programs visit:  

https://ctec.salkeiz.k12.or.us/programs/behavior-health-and-human-services  

 https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/departments/teaching-learning/student-programs/career-technical-education-cte/behavioral-health-at-sunset

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Inaugural initiative honors uncommon collaboration and innovation in addressing environmental and conservation challenges of the American West with a $50,000 cash prize.

Bend, OR — November 5, 2025 — Today, the High Desert Museum announces the Schnitzer Prize of the West, an inaugural initiative launched in close partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation. The new Prize—the first of its kind in the region—will award $50,000 annually to an individual or a small group of individuals whose work addresses environmental and conservation challenges of the American West, with a particular focus on honoring innovation, social impact, and uncommon collaboration. The open call for self- and third-party nominations runs on the High Desert Museum’s website from today through January 1, 2026.

In a moment when the American West—and the world-at-large—is confronting unprecedented ecological challenges, the Prize seeks to highlight innovative responses to urgent issues such as water scarcity, tribal rights and sovereignty, land-stewardship, changing climate, and more—offering models that can be replicated in other areas of the country facing similar pressures.

Since its founding in 1982, the High Desert Museum has been dedicated to sharing the stories of the High Desert through wildlife, art, cultures, history, and interdisciplinary experiences, creating a shared connection and dialogue among its community. The Prize builds on this commitment to conservation and on past initiatives such as the Earle A. Chiles Award—which recognized significant “Win-Win” contributions to managing the High Desert region's natural resources—as well as the Museum’s partnership with lifelong Portland resident and West Coast businessman Jordan D. Schnitzer, a dedicated steward of the local community and the region’s advancement.

“The Schnitzer Prize of the West is an exceedingly timely and relevant effort to shine a light on the innovators, collaborators and visionaries among us,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D, Executive Director of High Desert Museum. “Their work demonstrates that we can look toward our future together even as we consider the economic and ecological challenges before us.” 

“The Schnitzer Prize celebrates remarkable individuals and teams, who through their uncommon collaborations, are producing actionable solutions to the legacy challenges we face in the West,” said Jordan D. Schnitzer, President of Schnitzer Properties and The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.

Administered through the High Desert Museum, Prize nominations and applications will be evaluated by an esteemed panel of advisors comprised of former tribal leaders, ranchers and farmers, water policy and river restoration practitioners, a poet laureate and renowned historian, directors of prominent academic centers that focus on the study of the American West and more. To learn more about this dynamic group, visit the High Desert Museum website.

The Prize is now accepting nominations, and selected nominees will be invited to submit a formal application in early 2026. Nominations not selected in this inaugural cycle will automatically carry over for two forthcoming cycles. The Prize Winner will be announced in the spring of 2026. In addition to the $50,000 cash prize, the Winner will also receive a unique piece of art during an award ceremony in Portland, Oregon.

For more information on the Schnitzer Prize of the West, nomination eligibility, and selection process, please visit highdesertmuseum.org/schnitzer-prize.

About Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation

Jordan Schnitzer has a vibrant legacy supporting the High Desert Museum. He is the visionary and sponsor of the Schnitzer Prize of the West.

Through the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, Jordan carries on the legacy of his late parents and their belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the CARE Foundation and its leaders have given over $300 million to fund hundreds of nonprofit projects that touch lives and enrich communities.

Schnitzer is also a prominent West Coast businessman. He is President and CEO of Schnitzer Properties, one of the West Coast’s Top 10 private real estate owners with offices in six Western states. Schnitzer is also an ARTnews Top 200 Art Collector globally and shares his vast contemporary art collections at no charge to museums and institutions and supports accompanying programming, educational opportunities and publications.

About the High Desert Museum

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

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The Lebanon Fire District has been awarded a $1 million Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, providing five years of funding to expand wildfire prevention, seasonal staffing, and community resilience programs throughout the Lebanon area.

The award is part of a national $200 million investment in 58 community projects announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins on September 23, 2025. The grants, funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, help at-risk communities plan for and reduce wildfire risk, protect homes and infrastructure, and advance the goals of the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy — restoring resilient landscapes, creating fire-adapted communities, and ensuring safe, effective wildfire response.

“This award is a major step forward for our community,” said Fire Chief Joseph Rodondi. “We’ve seen how quickly wildfire danger can escalate across Oregon. This funding allows us to proactively staff and equip our teams, invest in prevention, and strengthen our ability to protect lives, property, and the environment.”

A Collaborative Effort Years in the Making

Lebanon Fire District’s successful application was developed in partnership with the Sweet Home Fire District, Linn County, the Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State University, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, the South Santiam Watershed Council, and other local and regional partners. Division Chief John Tacy, who led the effort for Lebanon, said the process took several months and represents a shared commitment to wildfire preparedness across Linn County.

“This grant was truly a team effort,” Tacy said. “Sweet Home Fire District took the regional lead, and we were proud to work alongside them, Linn County, ODF, OSU, OSFM, the South Santiam Watershed Council, and our local partners to secure this investment. These funds will directly support Lebanon’s summer staffing, equipment acquisition, and oversight—resources that will make an immediate difference when fire season arrives.”

Grant Impact for Lebanon

The $1 million, five-year award will fund:

• Seasonal staffing — adding four additional personnel during high-risk summer months.
• Equipment acquisition — upgrading and expanding wildfire suppression tools and protective gear.
• Supervisory oversight — ensuring effective coordination of wildfire mitigation and community-safety efforts.
• Community outreach and prevention — enhancing education and engagement on defensible space and fire-safe practices.

A National Investment in Wildfire Defense

Launched in 2022, the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program is a $1 billion, five-year competitive initiative designed to help communities and Tribes reduce wildfire risk. The program prioritizes those that:

• Are in areas identified as having high or very high wildfire hazard potential,
• Are low-income, or
• Have been impacted by a severe disaster in the past decade that increased wildfire risk.

Funding may be used to develop or revise Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) or to implement projects described in CWPPs less than ten years old. In this most recent funding cycle, the Forest Service received 573 applications requesting more than $1.6 billion from 40 states, three U.S. territories, and 48 Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations. Review panels comprised of state forestry and tribal representatives selected 58 proposals totaling $200 million — including the Lebanon Fire District’s project in Oregon.

“These grants are about putting real resources directly in the hands of the people who know their lands and communities best,” said Secretary Rollins in the USDA’s national announcement. “By empowering them, we are protecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure while securing the future of our great American landscape.”

Looking Ahead

Implementation of the Lebanon project will begin in 2026, with seasonal staffing and equipment procurement slated for the coming year. The District will provide updates to residents as the program progresses and will continue working with neighboring agencies to ensure the most effective use of the funds.

Chief Rodondi noted that collaboration and forward-planning will remain key: “Wildfire prevention doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s about partnerships, preparedness, and the people who make it possible. This grant is an investment in all three.”

More information about the national Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program is available at www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/grants/cwdg

Vancouver, WA – With 100% of the initial 26,035 ballots counted, preliminary results indicate that voters are rejecting Charter Amendment No. 13, which would have created voting districts. According to Clark County Elections, the results so far are No: 14,800 and Yes: 11,235. 

“We continue to monitor the returns, but the outcome is becoming clear,” said City Manager Lon Pluckhahn. “Regardless of the result, the election does not change City Council’s commitment to representing the perspectives of the entire Vancouver community and making decisions that serve the city as a whole. We appreciate the work of the Charter Review Committee in bringing this proposal forward for community consideration.”

Charter Amendment No. 13 was created as part of the 2024 Charter Review process, during which the Charter Review Committee recommended that elections be held by district. All members of the City Council, including the Mayor, will continue to be elected citywide.

The election results will be certified on Nov. 25.

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Vancouver, Wash. – With 100% of the initial 26,604 ballots counted, preliminary results indicate that Vancouver voters are approving Proposition 5, the Police Services Levy, in the Nov. 5 general election.

“The community has consistently told us that public safety is a top priority,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “While we are still waiting to see what comes in later, voters reaffirmed their commitment to a safe Vancouver and their support for continued improvements to police services. I want to thank Vancouver voters for their trust and investment in this important community priority.”
 

Proposition 5 will pay for:

• Adding up to 13 full-time equivalent sworn police officers in a range of ranks and assignments
• The equipment and vehicles for new staff that are consistent with current and future policing standards
• Administrative and staffing costs to support the investments in officers and equipment
• Additional prosecution and criminal justice costs

“As we continue to monitor the returns, I remain hopeful that the votes will continue to trend in the affirmative,” said Police Chief Troy Price. “I want to thank the community members who cast their ballots in support of the Vancouver Police Department, the City Council for their ongoing commitment to public safety, and the members of the Police Community Advisory Committee for their dedication and thoughtful work in helping develop priorities and funding strategies to increase police staffing.”

The levy is anticipated to raise $6 million annually over six years starting in 2026. The approved amount will be used to calculate future levies.

“We recognize the expectation taxpayers have for the City to use their investment wisely, and to follow the plan we have laid out,” said City Manager Lon Pluckhahn. “We will keep the public updated on our progress, including keeping the Police Community Advisory Committee informed and involved as we carry out our commitment to the public.”

The election results will be certified on Nov. 25.

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