NEW YEAR’S SAFETY

Among all the fun and noise of a New Year’s celebration, it’s important to ensure festivities are safe. If alcohol is involved, there should be people in attendance who are designated to stay sober and ensure safety. While laws can help prevent mishaps, people making the right choices and being respectful of each other will help keep people safe while still having fun. The responsibility and much of the liability of a safe party remains with the host. If you are hosting a party, there are safety measures you can implement to keep people safe and reduce liability during New Year celebrations.

Party Safety Tips:

• Use common sense. This includes not driving after drinking or using substances.
• Designate a non-drinking driver before the party.
• Utilize public transportation where available.
• Consider spending the night at the party location.
• If you are hosting a party, ensure that nonalcoholic drinks are also served.
• Communicate with neighbors before the party. Work together to respectfully address noise levels and other potential disturbances.
• Have the courage to refuse serving a friend a drink if they are acting strange or are intoxicated.
• Do not pressure friends to drink if they say no, have a drinking problem, or are already intoxicated.
• Consider the safety and welfare of pets. Loud music, people, and fireworks can result in distress.
• Ensure that pets have ID tags with current information on them and that they are safely secured before the party. Ensure pet licenses and microchips are updated so they can be easily reunited with you.
• Candles, fireworks, kids, and pets don’t mix. Keep them away from each other.

Use Caution When Consuming Alcohol

There can be misconceptions about different types of alcohol and their effects. For instance, beer and wine are just as intoxicating as distilled spirits. A 12-ounce can of beer, a five-ounce glass of wine, a 12-ounce wine cooler, and an ounce and a half of liquor contain nearly the same amount of alcohol.

While it is important to limit alcohol and stay hydrated, juices, sodas, and other mixers won't help dilute alcohol; they just make alcohol tastier. Alcoholic drinks using artificial sweeteners lead to a higher rate of alcohol absorption resulting in a greater blood alcohol concentration compared to drinks made with sugar-based mixers. Carbonated mixers like club soda or tonic water cause alcohol to be absorbed more quickly. Fruit juice and other sweet mixers mask the taste of alcohol and may cause people to drink more. Use caution when mixing drinks or serving sweet beverages, these can lead to accidental over-consumption of alcohol.

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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At 6:22 p.m. today, callers to 911 reported seeing flames coming from a home in the 17900 block of SW Roy Rogers Road. Firefighters arrived at a two-story home that was more than 4,000 square feet, with smoke coming from multiple eaves and fire beginning to breach the roof. The incident commander upgraded the call to bring additional personnel and units to the scene.

Fire crews began to search the home to confirm all occupants had safely exited the home. As they searched the second floor, they encountered holes in the floor, due to fire, which made access to the fire and search operations challenging. Fire crews confirmed all occupants were safely out of the home and made progress in putting out the fire. To supply the attack on the fire, one of the first arriving fire engines laid over 800 feet of large diameter hose down the long driveway. Another 500 feet of hose was deployed around the large home to bring the fire under control.

With assistance from Washington County Sheriff’s Office and King City Police, Roy Rogers Road was closed to protect first responders. A fire investigator was called to the scene, and the cause remains under investigation. TVF&R was also assisted on scene by American Medical Response.

The Red Cross is assisting the displaced family.

TVF&R approves the use of all images included with this release for the purpose of news dissemination.

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Bend Fire & Rescue was called to a house on NW Terra Meadow Dr Christmas Eve just before 2pm for a fire in a garage. Occupants and neighbors both reported a fire in the garage. Fire crews arrived and quickly extinguished the fire. The fire was reported to be related to an electric car in the garage. During the fire neighbors were asked to shelter in place due to the possible smoke containing lithium-ion by products which can be toxic. The 2 adults and 3 dogs in the house safely evacuated prior to our arrival.
 

The fire was traced back to a failed lithium battery in an electric vehicle. The vehicle was a passenger car converted from gas to an electric vehicle. The battery failed and caught fire, spreading to the contents of the garage. The occupants and neighbors noticed the fire and quickly called 911. With little delay in getting the fire department notified and the construction of the garage, the fire was kept inside the garage. Minimal smoke damage was found throughout the house. The smoke alarms did sound but not right away as the smoke was in the garage until after the occupants opened the door ingo the garage during the incident. The house is not occupiable anymore due mostly to the damage to the home utilities that all come through the garage, but all the family’s Christmas presents and much of their personal belongings were saved from damage. Modern attached garages are built with fire barriers between the garage and the main part of the house. This includes more sheet rock and heavier duty doors leading into the house to prevent a fire in the garage from spreading into the house.

Bend Fire & Rescue wants to if any portion of the vehicle or charging stops working or is not working as it normally does, stop all charging immediately and have the entire system checked out by a qualified professional. This goes for cars, bikes, scooters, and all other types of electric vehicles.

Here are some safety tips for charging EVs from the US Fire Administration, a branch of FEMA:

• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines when charging your vehicle. Check with your local dealer if you need additional information.
• Purchase a charging device that is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
• Plug Level I EV chargers directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device. Never use a multiplug adapter or extension cord.
• Install a residual current device with the charging unit. It will turn off the power if a fault is detected and help prevent a fire.
• Place all charging device components out of reach of children when not in use.
• Maintain the components of your charging station according to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Signs of excessive wear may indicate a potential shock hazard. Never use an EV charger with obvious signs of damage.
• Cover the EV charging station outlet to stop water from entering. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure it is safe to charge your EV in wet conditions.

As always, never throw any lithium batteries into the trash. These batteries will end up in the landfill where the process of trash collection, dumping, and packing into the landfill can cause the damage needed to start a fire. A fire in the landfill is a major concern of any solid waste department. This includes items with built in lithium batteries such as flashlights, alarms, and other small electronics. Contact your trash service provider, your local landfill, or many electronics stores for safe recycling options in your community.

Portland, Ore. – Advanced practice providers (APPs) represented by the Oregon Nurses Association have reached a tentative agreement with Legacy Health following a strike that began on December 2.

The tentative agreement will be presented to the full membership for a ratification vote, opening Friday, December 26 at 12:00 p.m. and closing Saturday, December 27 at 12:00 p.m.

If ratified, the agreement would become the first contract for Legacy APPs and among the first secured by one of the many newly organized bargaining units across Legacy Health, including more than 2,100 frontline nurses who joined ONA in January 2025.

Key provisions of the tentative agreement include across-the-board pay raises and new pay scales with clearer tier definitions, moving several departments into higher pay tiers. While the agreement does not fully close the wage gap with OHSU APPs, it represents meaningful progress toward more competitive compensation. The contract also provides expedited pay increases in years two and three, with no caps on those increases.

Additional improvements include increased extra shift pay, enhanced compensation for night and extended shifts, and the creation of a Labor–Management Committee to improve communication and proactively address workplace issues. The agreement also establishes just-cause protections for discipline and termination, ensuring due process and clear standards.

APPs will remain on strike during the ratification vote. Strike line times may vary due to weather conditions and the holiday season. If the tentative agreement is not ratified, APPs will continue their strike until a new agreement is reached.

Legacy APPs voted to join ONA in December 2023 and have been bargaining with Legacy Health since April 2024. The bargaining unit includes nurse practitioners, physician associates, and clinical nurse specialists who play a critical role in patient care across Legacy Health facilities.

NOTE: ONA will not provide further comment until after the ratification vote concludes. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

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Salem, Ore.— As of 12:30 p.m., Dec. 24, the National Weather Service cancelled its High Wind Advisory for the Willamette Valley.

Earlier this morning, the National Weather Service updated its High Wind Advisory for all of Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. Throughout the day, we monitored conditions as the potential intensity of the wind event reduced.

You can stay up to-date and on track of road conditions by:

• Following Salem Police Department’s social media accounts for traffic alerts. https://www.facebook.com/salempolicedept/ and https://x.com/SalemPoliceDept
• Monitoring Current Road Conditions (including closures) through Salem’s website: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage for tips on preparing for winter weather to protect yourself and your home. You can also track power outages and updates on Portland General Electric’s website: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages and Salem Electric’s website: https://www.salemelectric.com/outages-safety/outagemapreport/

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications.

COOS COUNTY, Ore. (24 December 2025) – On Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at 5:19 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Highway 42 near milepost 20 in Coos County.
 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Ford Ranger, operated by Crystal Leann Joffroy (45) of Coos Bay, was traveling eastbound on Hwy. 42 when it struck a pedestrian, Faith Scarlet Rose Andersen (29) of Myrtle Point, who was standing in the travel lane for an unknown reason.  
 

The pedestrian (Andersen) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
 

The operator of the Ford Ranger (Joffroy) was not injured.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Myrtle Point Police Department, the Myrtle Point Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.     

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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 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.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Stephen Wayne Newell, died the morning of December 24, 2025. Newell was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Newell entered DOC custody on November 14, 2024, from Josephine County with an earliest release date of July 23, 2033. Newell was 47 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Following a nationwide search, City Manager Lon Pluckhahn has named John L. Drake II as Vancouver’s new fire chief, starting Dec. 29. Drake succeeds Fire Chief Brennan Blue, who retired earlier this year after 38 years of fire service.

Chief Drake brings 38 years of leadership and operational experience in fire and emergency services to Vancouver. He is a retired chief deputy of emergency operations for the Los Angeles City Fire Department and served as acting fire chief, overseeing one of the nation’s largest fire departments. His career includes directing large-scale emergency operations, managing multi-million-dollar budgets, and leading more than 3,400 personnel across organizational services, safety, and community resilience advancements.

Drake holds a doctorate in policy, planning, and development from the University of Southern California, where he also taught public-sector performance management and emergency services improvement.

“I am excited to have Chief Drake joining Vancouver,” said City Manager Lon Pluckhahn. “With his extensive public safety experience, commitment to strengthening emergency operations, and drive to advance community resilience, he will inspire and challenge our fire service. As fire and emergency service needs grow and evolve, Chief Drake’s insight and strategic approach will be invaluable.”

“I am truly honored to serve the Vancouver community as your next fire chief,” said Chief Drake. “I am grateful to our city leaders, public safety personnel, and community members for their support throughout the selection process. I look forward to serving not only as your fire chief, but as a collaborative public safety partner working to ensure a safe and prepared community."

As fire chief, Drake will lead a department focused on meeting the evolving needs of Vancouver’s growing community. Drawing on his background in strategic planning and performance management, he will work to further strengthen service delivery, operational readiness, and community response.

Read full bio.

Clatsop County Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee Has 1 Vacancy

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County invites applications from individuals interested in serving on one open seat on the Clatsop County Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee.

The Board of Clatsop County Commissioners created the Clatsop County Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee to assist the County in the development of long-range plans for County parks and to direct the formulation and preparation of amendments to Clatsop County’s Recreational Lands Element of the Comprehensive Plan.

The Committee advises County staff regarding the County’s update of its Parks Master Plan and provides a public forum for citizen input regarding proposed changes that potentially impact parks, recreational lands, trails, boat ramps and related programs within the county.

The Board of Clatsop County Commissioners may use the County Recreational Lands Planning Committee as a primary public review body for any County actions related to recreation issues such as:

• Potential county land sales, trades or exchanges involving county park lands or lands adjoining county park properties
• Potential county timber sales involving county park lands or lands adjoining county park properties
• Land acquisitions
• Major improvement proposals, and
• Annual budget proposals

The Recreation Lands Planning Advisory Committee regularly meets in Astoria on the last Thursday of each month at 1 p.m.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Monday, January 12, 2026. Applications are available online or at the County Manager’s Office, at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103.

For more information about this committee’s meetings or responsibilities, contact Corey Johnson at 503-741-0767. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating the death of an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail, located at 11540 Northeast Inverness Drive in Portland.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the person who died as we move through this investigation,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Incidents like this can also impact MCSO employees and our partner agencies.”

“MCSO has policies and procedures that guide our response following an in-custody death, and those processes are underway to ensure we conduct a thorough investigation,” Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell added.

At approximately 2:40 a.m., on Wednesday December 24, 2025, deputies found an unresponsive adult in custody in a dorm.

Deputies and Multnomah County Health Department Corrections Health personnel administered lifesaving measures. Paramedics from the Portland Fire Bureau and American Medical Response (AMR) continued medical care and transported the person to the hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, the adult in custody died at the hospital.

In accordance with standard protocol, the East County Major Crimes Team was activated to conduct a death investigation.

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading the death investigation. The person’s age and identity will be released once their family has been notified.

Information about how and why the person died will be shared after the Medical Examiner completes their investigation.

No additional information can be released at this time.

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

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

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Salem, Ore.— City crews remain on high alert in preparation for response to anticipated high wind gusts Dec. 24.  

Earlier this morning, the National Weather Service updated its High Wind Advisory for all of Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. As of 9 a.m., the potential intensity of the wind event has reduced. However, today’s wind event may still produce impactful wind gusts which may exceed 45 miles per hour, resulting in possible wind damage to trees and power lines.

The National Weather Service forecasts winds will increase as the morning progresses, coming from the southwest, with sustained winds 16-21 mph and gusts in the 30 mph to 50 mph range. The duration of the strongest winds will be one to three hours, with the strongest winds arriving sometime after 11 a.m. today. 

If strong wind gusts in the 45 mph or greater range, downed tree limbs, downed trees and downed power lines are possible, particularly due to saturated soils from recent rains.  

We will provide an update on conditions after 12:30 p.m. today. 

At this time, all Salem roads and parks remain open. 

• Follow Salem Police Department’s social media accounts for traffic alerts. https://www.facebook.com/salempolicedept/ and https://x.com/SalemPoliceDept
• You can monitor Current Road Conditions (including closures) through Salem’s website: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage for tips on preparing for possible power outages and other tips to protect your home. You can also track power outages and updates on Portland General Electric’s website: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages and Salem Electric’s website: https://www.salemelectric.com/outages-safety/outagemapreport/

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report downed trees or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

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. In addition, the cities of Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Washougal, Woodland and Yacolt are also updating their comprehensive plans.

Three land use alternatives were studied for those cities and the county in a draft environmental impact statement (EIS) that was the subject of a 60-day review and public comment period which ended on Nov. 30, 2025. The City of Vancouver is also updating its Comprehensive Plan and is preparing separate environmental documentation.

The purpose of the joint hearing will be to take public testimony on a preferred land use alternative. The Clark County Council will ultimately select a preferred land use alternative, and a final EIS will be prepared on that alternative.

The hearing will be held on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. 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://bit.ly/CCCouncil.

Proposed mapping and related information is available at https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate. The staff report and related materials will be available 15 days prior to the hearing date on the county's website at https://bit.ly/CCPlanComm. Copies are also available by request to Jose Alvarez, Jose.Alvarez@clark.wa.gov, 564-397-4898. For other formats, contact the Clark County ADA Office at ADA@clark.wa.gov, voice 564-397-2322, Relay 711 or 800-833-6388, Fax 564-397-6165.

Written comments for the hearing can be submitted via email to Jeffrey.Delapena@clark.wa.gov or via the U.S. Postal Service to Clark County Planning Commission, c/o Jeffrey Delapena, PO 

Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810. Comments can also be read into the record. Instructions are available on the county website at https://bit.ly/CCCouncil.

Staff would appreciate receiving written testimony at least 24 hours before the hearing to ensure that it is forwarded to the Councilors and Commissioners by the hearing. Written testimony may also be submitted for the record during the hearing.

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

Salem, Ore.— City crews remain on high alert in preparation for response to anticipated high wind gusts today.

Yesterday, the National Weather Service issued a High Wind Advisory for all of Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. This period of sustained wind gusts may begin about 10 a.m. today. The system is fast-moving and the highest winds will likely occur for about 1-2 hours in duration. If strong wind gusts in the 45 mph or greater range, downed tree limbs, downed trees and downed power lines are possible, particularly due to saturated soils from recent rains.  

Winds are anticipated to move north up the Willamette Valley, arriving in Corvallis about 9 a.m. We will provide an updated forecast from the National Weather Service after 9:30 a.m. 

At this time, all Salem roads and parks remain open. 

• Follow Salem Police Department’s social media accounts for traffic alerts. https://www.facebook.com/salempolicedept/ and https://x.com/SalemPoliceDept
• You can monitor Current Road Conditions (including closures) through Salem’s website: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage for tips on preparing for possible power outages and other tips to protect your home. You can also track power outages and updates on Portland General Electric’s website: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages and Salem Electric’s website: https://www.salemelectric.com/outages-safety/outagemapreport/

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report downed trees or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

December 23, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Upper Klamath Lake

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 Upper Klamath Lake in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory July 24.

Water monitoring has confirmed the level of cyanotoxins in Upper Klamath Lake are below recreational guideline values 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.

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December 23, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Prineville Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Prineville Reservoir in Crook County.

OHA issued the advisory Oct 13.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Prineville Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people and below safety values for dogs.

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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December 23, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Thief Valley 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 Thief Valley Reservoir in Baker and Union Counties.

OHA issued the advisory on Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Thief Valley Reservoir are below recreational guideline values 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. Learn more about potential exposures and symptoms here.

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

First Friday Open Mic Music Night     January 2, 2026

Performer sign-ups:  6:00 to 7:00 pm

Music:  7:00 to 10:00 pm

Host: Wayne Hoffman

All ages welcome.  It is a fun filled evening with talented artists playing the guitar, banjo, autoharp, fiddle, piano, and singing.  The Dora Young Chapel resonates with the sound of music.

Cake and ice cream will be served during a break halfway through the evening.

No Admission Fee.                          Donations appreciated.                                Wheelchair accessible.

Visit website at northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com.

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

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

PRESS RELEASE 2

A25-29565 HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

DECEMBER 23, 2025

At 1853 hours of December 16, 2025, Cowlitz 911 received a report of suspicious circumstances in the 3600 block of Old Lewis River Rd, Woodland.  The reporting party stated they had just spoken with a family member, identified as Ricky Dean Miller, age 67, who reportedly said he had killed someone.  Miller resides at the Old Lewis River Rd address and reportedly said that the victim’s body was hidden on his property.

Deputies with the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and contacted Miller.  Detectives obtained a search warrant for Miller’s property and located a deceased male subject, identified as 71-year-old Dennis Eugene Schmitt.  Schmitt’s body had been hidden inside a barrel on the property.  Miller was reportedly Schmitt’s landlord, with the two parties living in separate residences on Miller’s property.

An autopsy was conducted on December 19, 2025.  Forensic examination determined Schmitt had multiple blunt-force injuries to the head and evidence of strangulation.

Ricky Miller was booked into Cowlitz County Jail on charges of Murder 2^nd Degree and Unlawful Disposal of Human Remains.  The Sheriff’s Office requests anyone with information about this case to contact Detective James Hanberry at 360-577-3092.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

On Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at 12:16 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a traffic crash near the 7000 block of SW Taylors Ferry Road in Tigard. The caller heard the crash and saw people running from the scene. Witnesses told deputies the driver of a 2009 Hyundai Elantra and three occupants ran after hitting a parked car.

Sheriff’s Office deputies and Tigard Police Department officers set up containment and requested assistance from a K9 handler. Corporal Terry and K9 Griff responded to assist in searching for the suspects.

A patrol officer quickly apprehended one of the suspects, but the three others ran through neighborhoods and jumped fences to avoid capture. The K9 team pursued the suspects and located all three near the 9000 block of SW Picasso Place in Tigard.

Deputies arrested the driver, 18-year-old Josa Zozaya, for the following:

• Reckless Driving
• Reckless Endangering
• DUII
• Failure to perform the duties of a driver
• Criminal mischief in the second degree

The three other occupants were determined to be juveniles.

If you witnessed this incident and have not spoken to deputies, please contact the Sheriff's Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 50-25-17942. 

In 1999, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 2977, Mandatory Boater Education, requiring operators of motorboats with engines greater than 10 horsepower and youth 12-15 years of age operating any size motorboat, to take a course on basic boating skill and/or pass an equivalency exam to demonstrate basic boating knowledge. The primary reason for passing the law was to reduce accidents, injuries, deaths, property damage, and conflict on Oregon’s waterways. Oregon was the first state west of the Mississippi to enact an education requirement. Today, there are more than 45 states and U.S. territories that require some form of boating safety education.

Back in 1999, the Oregon Legislature gave the agency three years to implement the program, first offering a home-study and mail-in application option between 2000 and 2003. Then in 2003, the age phase-in began and ended in 2009, when all boaters, regardless of age, had to meet the education requirement.

From the beginning, the Marine Board wanted to have plenty of options for boating safety education by offering internet, in-person classroom, and equivalency exams for boaters to choose from. When the age phase-in began in 2003, there were three approved Internet course providers. The Marine Board also partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Power Squadrons (America’s Boating Club), and the Red Cross to offer classroom courses around the state. Additionally, the agency developed its own volunteer instructor program with certified instructors teaching the “Boat Oregon” classroom course. The third option available for boaters included equivalency exams, offered through certified Boat Oregon instructors or county Sheriff’s Offices with approved marine patrol proctors. The three options remain today, and approved internet courses have expanded, including courses in Spanish. Virtual classes are also offered throughout the year in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Of note, when the law was passed in 1999, the accident reporting threshold was set at $500. In 2001, the threshold was increased to $2,000 to reduce the number of reports for minor damage and to align with changes in the cost of boat repairs. This reporting change is evident in a significant drop (in the chart below) in 2001. What’s more, the data below for accidents (incidents) and fatalities includes non-motorized boaters per reporting requirements for the U.S. Coast Guard. Since 2010, paddling in Oregon and across the nation has shown exponential growth. Motorized boating incidents and fatalities have been declining on average over the last 15 years.

The inference can be made based on submitted boating incident reports, indicating whether the boat operator did not have a boating safety education card.

Very little has changed in the Marine Board’s administrative rules for the program in reference to ORS 830.082 for the Mandatory Boating Safety Education Program. The program has been self-supporting through boating education card fees with very little agency administration and does not rely on other funding. In the past 25 years, the price of the lifetime card increased once, from $10 in 2000 to $20 in 2020. Replacement cards increased from $8 in 2000 to $16 in 2020. The increase was due to other rising costs in US mail postage, other supplies, and the card printing itself.

Course options remain the same, although approved internet courses have modernized, giving the student an interactive learning experience. Oregon-specific course content and testing are routinely updated to remain relevant to current national standards or changes in state boating laws. The agency now offers a digital Boat Oregon classroom course manual, also available in Vietnamese, Simple Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

With the popularity and growth in paddling, the agency encourages people who recreate in kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand up paddleboards to take advantage of FREE online paddling safety courses. They’re fun, interactive, and outline not only Oregon state boating laws, but also other important tips to reduce accidents out on the water.

Currently, over 439,700 education cards have been issued, and Oregon’s boating safety education program continues to be a model for other states and territories.

The BEC is a lifetime card and must be carried by the operator when the boat is in use. The BEC must be shown to a marine law enforcement officer upon request.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov to learn more about all things recreational boating.

-End-

Safety tips for coastal beach visitors during rainy season

Salem, OR – December 23, 2025 – Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson supports local public safety professionals in their opposition to Salem City Council’s appointment of convicted murderer, Kyle Hedquist. Hedquist was appointed to serve on the Community Police Review Board and the Civil Service Commission.

District Attorney Clarkson openly opposed the 2022 sentence commutation by then Governor Brown, expressing her “significant safety concerns surrounding the sudden and ill-planned governor’s commutation” of the Hedquist’s original life sentence. As to the nature of his crimes, Clarkson informed our community that “Hedquist tricked the victim into driving him to a rural Douglas County location where he shot the victim execution-style in the back of the head and dumped her body along the road.” (see the April 22, 2022 Press Release titled Notice Regarding Recent Governor Brown’s Commutation of Convicted Aggravated Murder.)

She stands by her original comments and upon learning of the Salem Police & Fire Unions’ opposition to the Salem City Council vote to place Hedquist on these important public safety oversight boards added,  “Common sense standards should exist for those that serve on key community boards – especially those with direct impact on our public safety professionals who risk their lives every day in service to our community. While I acknowledge there are certainly appropriate ways for those who have completed their full sentences and displayed honest rehabilitation to give back in our County, this is not one of them.  Our police and fire professionals have a right to expect better from city leadership.”

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About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

Vancouver, Wash. – The play areas at Hazel Dell Community Park will be closed beginning in early January for the removal of old play equipment and the installation of new equipment. Other areas of the park will remain open during construction. Those visiting the park during construction are reminded to stay out of closed areas and watch for construction traffic.

The replacement play equipment was selected based on community feedback from an online survey and several events. A castle/medieval theme was selected.

More improvements will be made at Hazel Dell Community Park in 2026 and beyond. Construction of accessibility improvements to the parking areas and walkways is expected to begin in summer 2026.

Additional information and project updates are posted on the park’s webpage: clark.wa.gov/public-works/hazel-dell-community-park.

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

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

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

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

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

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DOUGLAS COUNTY (23 December 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is investigating a report of bull elk that was shot and left to waste on Nov. 22, 2025, the opening day of Tioga Second Season. The bull elk was left in the area of the 8400 line near Bear Creek off Hubbard Creek, Umpqua, in Douglas County.

OSP Fish and Wildlife received a report of someone hearing a gun shot on the foggy opening morning around daylight. The next day, the reporting person was hunting in the same area and located the dead bull. The individual noticed three male subjects – possibly a grandfather, father, and son – walking in the area the bull elk was found. The men were all wearing camouflage clothing and were not carrying firearms. However, the bull elk was not recovered from the clear-cut area.

Fish and Wildlife troopers are asking if anyone shot and lost a bull elk in the area, or knows of someone who did, contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 800-452-7888 or call OSP (677) from a mobile device. Please refer to case number SP25-479764.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Media hotline: 503-813-6018  

Pacific Power is prepared to respond to weather-related outages ahead of forecast storm

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 23, 2025) — Pacific Power is monitoring a significant storm system off the coast that could bring high winds to large parts of Oregon and northern California, which could cause power outages.  

Pacific Power’s meteorology team is closely monitoring the approaching storm and crews are ready to respond to any weather-related outages.   

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.   

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:     

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.   
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.   
• Restock your outage kit.   
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.   
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.   
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.    

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.   

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas.    

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.    

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About Pacific Power  

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

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – As final holiday packages arrive over the next 24 hours, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) reminds community members to pick up deliveries as soon as possible.

This reminder follows the arrest of a 44-year-old woman accused of stealing packages from six different homes in Gresham.

“This arrest is the result of our deputies doing exactly what our community expects of them – being alert and committed to their patrol districts so that when something seems out of place, they assess the situation and take appropriate action,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Our MCSO deputies are proactive and making a difference when it comes to public safety and this case shows why strong and consistent community-oriented policing matters.”

Around 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, MCSO Deputy Josh Delatorre saw a woman walking near Southeast 282^nd Avenue and Southeast Chase Street.

Deputy Delatorre stopped and talked with the woman. The woman hadn’t committed any crimes, so Deputy Delatorre told the woman to be safe and continued his day.

About 30 minutes later, Deputy Delatorre finished report writing and went back to the area to check on the woman. As he approached, he saw the woman carrying several packages. Deputy Delatorre had reasonable suspicion the packages were stolen so he contacted her once again.

Deputy Delatorre confirmed the woman was in unlawful possession of stolen mail. He requested backup and with the help of other MCSO deputies and Gresham Police, they identified six victims who had items including shoes and other packages stolen.

All the items had been left outside on the homeowner’s front porch or at their front door – most appeared to be recently delivered Christmas packages.

MCSO is releasing video of one of the alleged package thefts. Media may use this video by crediting the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies developed probable cause to arrest 44-year-old Patty Walker. Deputies booked her into the Multnomah County Detention Center. Walker is charged with one count of theft in the second-degree.

Tips to help prevent package theft include:

• Collect packages as soon as they are delivered, if possible. Package thefts are crimes of opportunity.
• Consider installing smart locks to your garage, home or shed. These locks allow delivery drivers to place packages inside for additional security.
• If you’re not home, enlist help from a trusted neighborhood to collect your packages.
• If your employer allows, have your packages sent to your office or use a retail pick-up option like Amazon Lockers.
• Invest in doorbell cameras and external home security cameras, if possible. While these may not always deter a thief, they can help provide law enforcement evidence.
• Sign up for tracking alerts to get real-time text/email alerts and provide specific drop-off instructions.

A photo of Deputy Delatorre is being released. Media may use this photo with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

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

ORS 133.870 generally prohibits the release of jail booking photos to the public unless it is determined that there is a law enforcement purpose.

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

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IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALEM, Ore. — On Monday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m., the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) downgraded its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) activation from Level 3 (Regional Response) to a Level 4 (Steady State) following the recent atmospheric river event that caused widespread flooding and landslides across the state. 

Recovery Efforts Continue Statewide 

 While the ECC has returned to a steady‑state posture, OEM remains fully engaged in recovery operations and is actively monitoring incoming weather and hazards. The ECC stands ready to increase activation levels if conditions change.  

“Oregon communities were hit hard by this storm, and our work is far from over,” said OEM Director of Recovery and Response Andrew Jahier. “We’re continuing to coordinate resources for affected areas, and the State Emergency Coordination Center remains ready to support local jurisdictions and coordination efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.” 

OEM is working closely with local jurisdictions and partners to ensure communities receive the assistance they need and is prepared to reactivate if the approaching high wind event over-extends local response resources. State Recovery Functions are active, and OEM is supporting Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to address disaster-related unmet needs. 

As always, OEM encourages anyone driving this week to check TripCheck.com for road hazards or closures, and to have a full tank of gas and fully stocked emergency car kit. Also, if you encounter a downed powerline, leave it alone and call 911. 

For more information on recovery efforts and disaster assistance, visit Oregon.gov/OEM

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 7. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda includes:

• Oregon Forest Resource Institute presentation values and beliefs survey
• 2025 Forest Practices Operator of the Year awards
• Review of Federal executive orders and update on United States wildland fire service

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

Signing up for live testimony is required. Instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

If you live in one of 19 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent storms and power outages, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline to 30 days for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to power outages Dec. 17, 2025.

Households in the counties listed below have until Jan. 16, 2026, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Benton
• Clackamas
• Clatsop
• Columbia
• Coos
• Douglas
• Hood River
• Jefferson
• Klamath
• Lane
• Lincoln
• Linn
• Marion
• Multnomah
• Polk
• Tillamook
• Wallowa
• Washington
• Yamhill

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.
You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

If your food was lost because of the storms or power outages, you can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Calling 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome
• Filling out a request form and emailing it to egon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov">oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Visiting a local ODHS office
• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)
• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household's normal monthly SNAP benefit.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.
• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Jan. 16, 2026.
After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov

On Monday, December 22, 2025, at 8:41 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to multiple reports of a traffic crash between a pedestrian and a vehicle near the intersection of SW Tualatin Valley Highway and SW 198th Avenue in Aloha. The pedestrian did not survive.

41-year-old John McKinney of Portland was crossing Tualatin Valley Highway when he was hit by a passing vehicle. The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with the investigators. The Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) responded to assist with the investigation and does not believe impairment is a factor. No arrests have been made.

McKinney’s family has been notified of his death and is asking for privacy at this time.

Investigators believe that additional witnesses have yet to come forward, specifically the driver and passenger of a silver Audi sedan with a partial license plate number of 091, who briefly stopped at the scene.

If you witnessed the crash or have information about this incident, please contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 50-25-17937. 

SAIF, Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation company, has promoted Mike Watters to chief diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) officer. In their new role, Mike will evolve SAIF’s DEI approach, integrate DEI with SAIF’s overall health and well-being strategy, align DEI efforts with employee and customer experience outcomes, and overall foster a culture where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered.

Watters joined SAIF in 2012 and has held several positions since, including communication and design director and their most recent role, customer experience (CX) director for policyholders. Throughout their time at SAIF, they have been dedicated to advancing DEI and accessibility through our communication and CX strategies.

“Mike has an intimate knowledge of SAIF, strategic expertise, and a stellar track record of launching and sustaining programs in our company,” said Chip Terhune, president and CEO of SAIF. “Mike is a trusted and exceptional leader who will approach this work with humility, creativity, and enthusiasm.”

In addition to their work at SAIF, Watters has served the broader DEI community, most recently as the board president of Oregon Pride in Business. They have also served on City of Salem’s Human Rights Commission, leading efforts to improve resources and community outreach. 

Watters started in the position in late November.

About SAIF 

SAIF is Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we’ve been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

SALEM, Ore. — Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Cecil Owens has been appointed Oregon’s new state chair for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program that helps strengthen relationships between the Guard and Reserve members and their civilian employers.

The ESGR program was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between service members and employers, educate employers about their responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and recognize workplaces that support military employees.

Oregon is home to about 8,100 Guard and Reserve members. These Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen regularly deploy overseas and are also activated at home to support a variety of missions, including disaster response.
 

As state chair, Owens will lead a statewide team of volunteers focused on employer outreach, awards, and education programs. The position is the highest volunteer leadership role for ESGR in Oregon and is appointed by the Secretary of Defense.

“After 30 years of military service, ESGR gives me the chance to continue serving Soldiers and Airmen by ensuring they have strong support from their employers,” Owens said. “Supportive employers are essential to readiness and to the well-being of our service members and their families.”

Owens currently serves as director of the Oregon National Guard State ESGR Committee. He has also held leadership roles at both the state and national levels within ESGR.
 

ESGR relies on trained volunteers to help employers and service members navigate military service obligations and workplace responsibilities, resolve conflicts, and highlight employers who go above and beyond in supporting the Guard and Reserve. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Cecil Owens to this vital leadership role,” said John Sampa, national chair for ESGR. “His dedication and experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to support our nation’s dedicated service members and their civilian employers.”

------------------------------------------

More information about ESGR and employer support resources is available at www.esgr.mil. A video interview with Owens is available at: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/976045/oregon-esgr-honors-cunningham-welcomes-
owens-new-state-chair

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Released Images: 

251110-A-ZJ128-5833.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Benton County commissioners and the Benton County sheriff at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251110-A-ZJ128-6880.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan (center) and Col. Paul Dyer, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. The group gathered after Owens and Dyer presented Benton County Government, Grogan’s employer, with the ESGR Seven Seals Award. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251101-A-FS713-7026: Oregon Employer Support Guard & Reserve Chair Cecil Owens (Oregon National Guard photo by Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan)

In the early morning hours of December 22nd, 2025, the Newberg-Dundee Police Department was called to a residence inside the city of Newberg on a report of an assault with a knife. Officers learned that 31-year-old Vasily Barbiyeru of Newberg stabbed his father with a knife multiple times and then barricaded himself inside a room within the residence. People living within the home, including the victim, were evacuated by police. After a lengthy standoff, Barbiyeru peacefully surrendered to police. The victim was taken to a Portland area hospital where he was treated for lacerations to the face. The victim is expected to survive. Barbiyeru was lodged in the Yamhill County Jail on charges of Assault in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

The Newberg-Dundee Police would like to thank the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office and the Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue.

Oregon City, ORE. – Oregon City has lifted the “Level 1 – Be Ready” evacuation notice for residents on Applegate Terrace. The two homes that were at a “Level 3 – Go Now” have been reduced to “Level 1 – Be Ready”.

The changes come after inspections from geotechnical engineers and building inspectors, who indicated that both structures are currently safe to occupy. The homeowners are receiving recommendations on extra steps they can take to help minimize risks of further movement.

With additional rain in the forecast, the City is advising residents of the two homes, and anyone else living near a steep slope, to be vigilant for signs of potential landslide activity.

For more information, including resources and what signs to look for, residents can go to the City’s website at orcity.org/geologic-hazards. If you need assistance with cleanup, recovery, or other unmet needs, resources from local partners and community organizations can be accessed through 2-1-1.

Residents needing to report potential landslide activity this week over the Christmas holiday can contact the non-emergency number at 503-655-8211.

Salem, Ore.— While drinking water provided to more than 200,000 residential and business customers continues to be safe to drink, some residents may see a slight change in the taste, odor or color of their water as we open our connection to the City of Keizer Dec. 23.

Recent storms have limited drinking water production capabilities at the City’s Geren Island Water Treatment Facility. In response, we will pump about five million gallons per day from the City of Keizer’s water system. This will account for about 20 percent of the average daily demand during this time of year.

Groundwater wells at Geren Island and our Aquifer Storage and Recovery wells were also activated. 

We plan to use the Salem-Keizer connection until the muddiness of the North Santiam River decreases enough so that the Geren Island Water Treatment Facility can resume regular operations. This could take several days, but your drinking water will remain safe throughout the process.

Salem water customers, primarily in the West Salem area, could notice a slight change in the taste or appearance of their water. The City of Keizer uses groundwater for drinking water, while the City of Salem’s primary drinking water source is the North Santiam River. Blending the two water sources may somewhat change the taste, odor or color of the water.  

Customers should contact Salem Public Works Dispatch at 503-588-6311 if they have any questions or concerns about their drinking water. For more information about Salem’s Drinking Water, visit https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/household/water-utilities/salem-s-drinking-water.

Local volunteers and grant funding come together to restore trails at Camp Wilkerson County Park.

ST. HELENS, Ore. [Dec. 22, 2025] — Columbia County Parks is pleased to acknowledge a recent grant award supporting trail restoration efforts at Camp Wilkerson County Park. The Oregon Community Foundation has awarded $2,500 to Oregon Equestrian Trails (OET) to assist with improving and reopening overgrown trail sections surrounding the park’s horse camp and recreation areas. The grant was awarded through the Shelton H. and Mary I. Duff Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation.

In partnership with the County, OET volunteers will work on restoring trail corridors that have become difficult to access due to vegetation growth and storm impacts. All work will be coordinated with Columbia County Parks to ensure that improvements align with long-term stewardship and recreation goals for Camp Wilkerson.

For more than 20 years, volunteers from the Columbia County Chapter of OET have played a major role in caring for Camp Wilkerson’s trail system. Their work has included maintaining the Liahona Trail, clearing fallen trees and overgrown brush, building bridges, improving muddy sections, and upgrading the horse camp corrals. OET also raises funds annually to support these efforts, contributing nearly $4,000 this year alone toward new metal corrals in addition to the recent trail restoration grant.

“We’re grateful for OET and everyone who’s pitching in,” said Riley Baker, Director of General Services. “Restoring these trails isn’t something we can do alone, and it’s great to see the community stepping up. Camp Wilkerson is special, and projects like this help keep it enjoyable for everyone.”

As the project moves forward, Columbia County and OET will work together to identify additional community partners and volunteers who can support on-the-ground trail restoration work. These efforts will help ensure the park’s trail network remains safe, accessible, and welcoming for hikers, equestrians, and outdoor enthusiasts across the region.

“Camp Wilkerson is our only horse camp in the County, and we’re dedicated to doing our part to keep the trails and horse camp open for equestrians and hikers,” said Gloria and Bob Rice of the Columbia County Chapter of Oregon Equestrian Trails.

Columbia County extends sincere thanks to the Oregon Community Foundation and Oregon Equestrian Trails for their commitment to supporting public recreation and preserving one of the county’s most valued natural areas.

###

On Monday, December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:20 a.m., a fire occurred in the Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) Furniture Factory at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP). The OCE building was immediately evacuated.

The fire was discovered when smoke was observed near the sawdust collector inside the building. The fire extended into the hopper located outside the building. OSP staff responded using fire extinguishers and contacted emergency services. The Salem Fire Department responded and successfully extinguished the fire. Fire personnel tested the air, conducted thermal imaging, and subsequently released the building back to OSP.

All OCE shops to include Call Center, Laundry, Metal Shop, and Furniture Factory were shut down as a precautionary measure and will resume operations Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. No injuries were reported.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

####

PR 17-25                                                           

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Dec. 22, 2025
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 971-207-8390 or 503-230-5131

BPA set to provide low cost, reliable power for another two decades
More than 130 customer utilities in the Pacific Northwest signed long-term power contracts that enable continued growth and investment in the federal power and transmission systems

Portland, Ore. – Signed, sealed, delivered: Two more decades of reliable and low-cost power for the Pacific Northwest.

After several years of intense effort and collaboration under the Provider of Choice initiative, the Bonneville Power Administration executed new long-term wholesale electric power contracts with more than 130 Northwest public utility customers this fall.

“This is a watershed moment for BPA and our ratepayers,” said John Hairston, the agency’s administrator and CEO. “With these contracts in hand, we have the continuity and certainty necessary to continue building and expanding the value of the federal power and transmission systems that deliver vital, low-cost and reliable electricity to millions of residential, commercial and industrial consumers and serves as a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s economy.”

These contracts provide BPA’s power customers with cost and rate stability, while providing a sturdy financial base for Bonneville as it works to ensure the region is ready to meet the increasing energy demands in the near term and the future.

With the Provider of Choice contracts signed, BPA is entering into a three-year implementation period to put the mechanisms in place to begin power sales in October 2028. The new 16-year power purchase agreements build upon the success of the Regional Dialogue contracts set to close in September 2028. The Regional Dialogue contracts created a foundation for stable, competitively priced and flexible power sales. BPA’s new long-term power contracts will continue to support regional economic stability and ensure public access to low-cost federal power. 

“As a commercial entity, BPA must re-earn its customers’ business each contract cycle to fulfill its mission and recover costs,” said Kim Thompson, vice president for Northwest Requirements Marketing. “My team approached Provider of Choice as a collaborative effort with customers, working hard to balance their needs and desires with sound business principles as well as preserve inter-customer equity. At times, it was challenging work, but I am so proud of BPA’s team and our customers for the success we achieved together.”

BPA began the Provider of Choice contract policy process in 2021 and spent four years engaging with customers and other regional stakeholders on policy and contract language. For the rate period beginning in October 2028, BPA will use the newly adopted Public Rate Design Methodology to establish rates under the forthcoming BP-29 Rate Case expected to launch in fall 2027.

Beyond Provider of Choice, BPA is working on several fronts to prepare for the region’s growing energy demand:

Columbia Generating Station uprate: BPA is working with Washington State’s Energy Northwest to improve the power output of the Columbia Generating Station, a nuclear power plant near Hanford, Washington. Once complete, the improvements will result in an additional plant output of roughly 160 megawatts by 2031 – enough energy to power approximately 125,000 homes.

Incremental hydropower increases: Alongside operating partners at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation, BPA will continue to invest in the reliability, efficiency and capacity of the Federal Columbia River Power System. Investments in seven of the projects through 2050 will provide up to 330 average megawatts of additional energy for Bonneville customers and the region. These enhancements include high-efficiency turbine runners with improved fish passage designs, generator rewinds, and the installation of two new turbines.

Grid Access Transformation: BPA is working to streamline processes that allow power producers quicker access to the grid so they can get their energy to market faster. At the same time, BPA is working to shorten its construction time of new transmission lines from project design to completion. Over the next decade, the agency is investing up to $25 billion in transmission projects and reinforcements across the Northwest.

About BPA: BPA is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, affordable and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants to fill an expiring position on the Clark County Development and Engineering Advisory Board, DEAB.

The application deadline has been extended to 5 pm Friday, Jan. 30, 2026.

The open position is for a land developer who works or lives in Clark County

Members shall be appointed or reappointed to three-year terms. Members are eligible for reappointment after their terms expire.

The advisory board reviews policy and county code changes and works on process improvement and fees with the Community Development and Public Works departments. The board’s recommendations are routinely forwarded to the Clark County Council for use by final decision makers.

The board consists of three private-sector planners or engineers; one public-sector planner or engineer; one construction contractor; one land developer; one Building Industry Association representative; one professional associated with commercial or industrial development; and two professionals associated with development.

The Development and Engineering Advisory Board, commonly referred to as DEAB, typically meets at 2 pm the first Thursday of the month in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

Anyone interested should submit a letter of interest and résumé to Victoria Abram, Program Coordinator, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810. Applications also can be emailed to victoria.abram@clark.wa.gov.

More information, including meeting agendas and minutes, is available at www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/development-and-engineering-advisory-board

JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 70 in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red GMC Jimmy, operated by Jimmy Warren Stanley (82) of Dunsmuir (CA), was traveling northbound on I-5 when it veered off the roadway for an unknown reason onto the gravel shoulder. The vehicle rolled over, and the operator was ejected from the vehicle.

The operator (Stanley) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Rural Metro Fire, American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland General Electric (PGE) is urging customers to prepare for potential power outages as a potential significant windstorm approaches the region this Wednesday, Christmas Eve. Unlike last week's weather event, meteorologists are tracking a stronger storm system that could bring sustained winds of 20-45 mph with gusts reaching 45-65 mph throughout PGE's entire service area.

The forecasted windstorm, part of a larger weather system affecting the entire West Coast from California to Washington, is expected to arrive Wednesday morning and continue through mid-afternoon, potentially creating hazardous conditions. With the holidays well underway, PGE is taking proactive measures now to prepare including crew staffing and staging materials at line operation centers to address outages quickly.

PGE meteorologists are actively monitoring the developing weather system.

Things customers can do now to prepare:

• Prepare an outage kit that includes:                    
  • Flashlight or headlamps                                                                            
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and alarm clock or watch
  • Car charger for your cell phone, laptop or tablet
  • 72-hour supply of ready-to-eat food and water
  • Any required medications
  • Extra blankets
  • Bottled water for people and animals
• Be familiar with safe cooking, heating and lighting practices. Information on safe generator use and other safety tips are available on portlandgeneral.com/safety.
• For more winter-ready tips, visit portlandgeneral.com/beprepared.

Important downed power line safety information:

• If you see a downed power line:
  • Never touch a downed power line – or anything else the line is touching.
  • Always assume powerlines are live and stay at least 50 feet away (that’s a little longer than a city bus).
  • You should always assume downed power lines are electrified and extremely dangerous, they don’t have to spark or sizzle to be live.
  • If you see downed power lines, call 911, then report it to PGE at 503-464-7777.
• Be sure to check out our downed power line safety video.

Generator safety:

• Always operate your portable gas generator outside. Place it in a well-ventilated area way from doors, windows and your garage. Otherwise, deadly odorless carbon monoxide can be drawn into your house and poison your family.  
• Don’t get shocked! Use only an outdoor-rated, grounded extension cord; one with a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) is best. 
• Never “back feed.” Don’t try to power the house by using a doctored extension cord to plug a generator into a household outlet. This is extremely dangerous! It can not only ruin your home’s wiring and start a fire, it can also accidentally energize a power line our crew thinks is safe to work on. An unsuspecting PGE line worker could be seriously injured or killed. Only connect individual appliances to the receptacle outlet of the generator. 
• Avoid burns. Generators can get very hot during operation. Use extreme caution to avoid burns and let the engine cool before you refuel. 
• Keep children and pets away from generators at all times.  
• Don’t overload your generator. Follow the wattage guidelines in your owner’s manual.

For customers who experience a power outage, PGE offers several ways to get updates or report an outage:

• Text updates: Please make sure PGE has your contact information up to date so we can provide you with outage information via text message (outage texts are currently available for residential and small business customers with fewer than six accounts).
• Online: Go to portlandgeneral.com/outage to view PGE’s outage map, which is the best place to go for real-time outage information.
• App: Download the PGE app at the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Links also available at portlandgeneral.com/app.

• Phone: Call 503-464-7777 or 800-544-1795 to report a power outage or downed line through our automated system. Customers can also request a call back when power is restored.

About Portland General Electric Company

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

Springfield, Ore. — Bureau of Land Management officials recently began the annual shift to winter operations at Hult Dam. As winter rainfall increases, the BLM increases the amount of water passing through the dam to mitigate the risk of the reservoir overflowing.

“To protect downstream communities, we partially open the valve in the winter so heavy seasonal flows of water can safely pass through the dam,” said Sarah Bickford, Siuslaw Field Manager. “Public safety is our first priority, and we don’t want excess water building up behind the aging dam.”

The BLM partially opened the valve on Dec 17 to bring the water level to the ideal height just above the spillway. Staff further opened the valve the evening of Dec 18 after heavy rain and will make adjustments as needed. BLM engineers work with fisheries and wildlife staff to monitor the dam to reduce the chance of overflowing water and debris from the reservoir while protecting habitat.

While the BLM vigilantly monitors the reservoir, opening the valve during the winter does not fully eliminate the risk of an overflow event if an unusually significant rain or rain-on-snow event causes major flooding. Residents should stay aware of local forecasts and be prepared for extreme weather events.

The BLM plans to safely remove Hult Dam in the future. While the timeline is to be determined, additional details on the planning process can be found in the Hult Reservoir and Dam Safety Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), EIS Summary, and Record of Decision.

-BLM-

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

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 9:55 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 181 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gold Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Cindy Rose Pearce (59) of Bend, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 97 when it crossed into the northbound lane after the operator lost control due to icy roadway conditions. The Silverado collided head-on with a northbound black Toyota Tacoma, operated by Kristara Leah Lopez (47) of Coos Bay, and then struck a blue Dodge Ram towing a small trailer, operated by Carl Michael Kelley (68) of Oakridge.
 

The operator of the Toyota Tacoma (Lopez) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Toyota’s passenger, Gilberto Paez Lopez (59) of Coos Bay, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.
 

The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Pearce) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

The operator of the Dodge Ram (Kelley) and passenger, Terri Louise Kelley (59) of Oakridge, were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Crescent Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit that investigates 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.

Salem, OR – December 22, 2025 – In June of this year, Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson convened a grand jury inquiry into the conditions and management of the Oregon Youth Authority’s MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility. This inquiry is authorized pursuant to Oregon Revised Statute 132.440. (see below for original release)

At the time, District Attorney Clarkson stated: “I have grown increasingly concerned regarding the safety of youth placed at MacLaren.” “Unfortunately, the more we learn regarding what occurred under OYA’s former leadership, the more that I believe that I should use every tool I have to ensure that both youth and the staff who serve them are safe.” 

Today, the grand jury released its findings, substantiating the need for the inquiry and highlighting systemic challenges within the facility.

During the approximately six-month inquiry, the grand jury: held 13 sessions where they inquired into the conditions and management of MacLaren; heard over 40 hours of testimony from approximately 30 witnesses, which included OYA employees and management, as well as witnesses from Marion County Juvenile Department, juvenile prosecutors, juvenile justice experts, Oregon State Police, community partners, and others; considered hundreds of pages of documentary evidence; toured grounds and facilities at MacLaren on multiple occasions and the Marion County Juvenile Department one time.

The investigation uncovered several issues affecting the safety and well-being of youth and staff at MacLaren. The issues identified fell into the following broad categories: Identity; Staffing, Training and Retention; Youth Population and Behavioral Trends; Security and Control; Contraband and Facility Safety; Gang Activity; Mental Health and Treatment Gaps; Sexual Assault/Misconduct; Case Planning and Parole; Community Partner Impacts.

In addition to the findings and recommendations, the same grand jury issued 10 criminal indictments for behavior it considered while examining the backlog of cases and issues considered. These 10 cases added to the cases already pending from conduct at MacLaren.   

“Youth being served at Oregon’s closed custody facilities deserve to have the opportunity for rehabilitation in a safe and stable environment.  Hopefully, this is the beginning of a new chapter for MacLaren,” Clarkson stated. She added, “This is only a starting point and should serve as a catalyst for policy makers, state leaders, and experts to address these concerns and do better for both our youth and our communities.”

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy, who oversaw the grand jury proceedings, said, “The grand jury uncovered numerous areas for needed improvement at MacLaren.” He went on to say, “some of the issues they identified will need additional conversation and follow through, while others are common sense, reasonable reforms.”

 “I would like to thank the seven Marion County jurors,” Clarkson continued.  “These are seven individuals, chosen from our community by the court, who gave significant time and their best effort to help keep some of Oregon’s most vulnerable safe.” 

The grand jury also provided recommendations to OYA leadership, legislators, and community partners for consideration to restore safety and public confidence in MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility.  “The Marion County DA’s Office looks forward to ongoing conversation regarding how MacLaren can do better, but also for youth before, during, and after OYA custody,” Murphy said.

The Marion County Grand Jury’s 2025 report regarding MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility can be accessed here.

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

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

_____________________________________________________________________________

Original News Release:

News Release from Marion Co. Dist. Attorney's Office
Posted on FlashAlert: June 16th, 2025 4:32 PM

Today, Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson announced that she has convened a grand jury to inquire into the conditions and management of MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility, the Oregon Youth Authority’s (OYA) largest closed custody detention facility, which is located in Woodburn, Marion County, Oregon.  This inquiry is authorized per Oregon Revised Statute 132.440. 

“I have grown increasingly concerned regarding the safety of youth placed at MacLaren.  Communities around this state rely on OYA to rehabilitate youth who have committed offenses that judges find justify detention.  It goes without saying that those same communities as well as judges, prosecutors, youth counsel, and families expect OYA to prioritize safety in that facility.  Unfortunately, the more we learn regarding what occurred under OYA’s former leadership, the more that I believe that I should use every tool I have to ensure that both youth and the staff who serve them are safe.” 

Over the past 12 months, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office has received more than 100 investigations of potential criminal conduct, some dating back several years, occurring at MacLaren.  That number does not include investigations sent to other DA offices1, nor does it include incidents that are merely administrative or incidents that did not rise to criminal investigatory levels.  These investigations do, however, include escapes, contraband possession, physical assaults on both youth and staff, riots, and most concerning, sexual assault.  Most of these investigations have been identified following the discovery of significant backlog in the Oregon Youth Authority’s Professional Standards Office.  That backlog prompted action by the Governor and drew the attention of legislators who have held hearings to oversee OYA administration.    

"I commend District Attorney Clarkson and Attorney General Rayfield for launching this joint inquiry. Maintaining the public’s trust in this state facility—and ensuring the safety and well-being of the youth it serves—are vital for a just and humane Oregon," said Senator Anthony Broadman, Co-Chair of the legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety. "We are eager to review the facts in their report this fall, and the committee will be ready to take appropriate action. We will not hesitate to implement reforms, ensure accountability, and make the changes necessary to protect those under the state's supervision,” continued Representative Paul Evans, Co-Chair of the legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety. 

“My office doesn’t receive state funds to address criminal behavior in state-run institutions,” District Attorney Clarkson further stated. “While we are accustomed to working with the Oregon State Police to manage cases arising from the numerous correctional facilities within our jurisdiction, the sheer number and seriousness of these MacLaren investigations is almost overwhelming.” 

Given this large volume of investigations combined with the statutory scope of the inquiry, DA Clarkson requested assistance from the Oregon Department of Justice.  Attorney General Dan Rayfield agreed and has assigned a Senior Assistant Attorney General to support the effort.  

Marion County Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy, Senior DDA David Wilson, and Senior Assistant Attorney General Kurt Miller will oversee the proceedings.  Chief DDA Murphy has extensive experience with juvenile justice law and policy, is a member of the Oregon Juvenile Justice Policy Commission and was previously a member of the Supreme Court’s Juvenile Justice Mental Health Task Force.  He currently serves on OYA’s safety task force. Senior DDA Wilson has significant juvenile experience and oversees closed-custody prosecutions within the Marion County DAs Office. AAG Kurt Miller is a statewide expert on juvenile law, including waiver proceedings and jurisdictional authority. He has been specially deputized as a Marion County Deputy District Attorney for this purpose.  

Consistent with all matters that come before a grand jury, these proceedings are confidential.  As such, no further information will be released prior to the grand jury’s final report.  The Marion County District Attorney’s Office expects that the report will be completed by the end of the year and will be publicly released at that time.

###

Coverage, savings, peace of mind: Oregon encourages health plan enrollment for 2026

For Immediate Release

December 22, 2025

Contact: Matt Stein

Cell: 503-442-2131

Union Gospel Mission to Serve 350 Meals on Christmas Day

Portland, Ore. - Union Gospel Mission’s Christmas Day meal will take place on Thursday, December 25 at 10:00 a.m. at 15 NW Third Avenue.

The meal includes glazed ham, green beans, and fruit salad along with other sides, coffee, fruit punch, and a snack sack for later in the day. 

UGM began its special Christmas meal celebrations on Saturday, December 20 by providing 600 Christmas food baskets for families in need. Each basket feeds at least 5 people, meaning these baskets provided 3,000 meals for people in need.

On Sunday, December 21, UGM continued providing special holiday meals on their Search + Rescue mobile outreach and will continue throughout the week. In all, they will provide more than 3,800 special Christmas meals for those in need or experiencing homelessness, concluding with the sit-down Christmas Day meal in Old Town Portland.

“Our hope is that each guest that joins us feels loved, valued, and hopeful this holiday Season. We are grateful to God for all He has provided and we look forward to sharing this provision with our neighbors,” says Matt Stein, Executive Director.

If you would like to help the Mission provide meals to those in need, visit www.ugmportland.org/donate, call 503-274-4483 or mail a check to 3 NW Third Avenue, Portland, OR 97209.

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals and care for those experiencing homelessness and is home to LifeChange – a long-term residential recovery program for men, women, and children. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx

# # #

Atmospheric River Events Mean Even Less Clearance for Vessels Crossing Under the Proposed Interstate Bridge Plan

Neighbors for a Better Crossing (NFBC) has submitted formal comments to the U.S. Coast Guard in response to its request for public input on the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program’s preferred alternative—a 116-foot fixed-span bridge over the Columbia River, coupled with mitigation payments to select major river users in exchange for reduced navigational clearance. NFBC urges the Coast Guard to deny approval of this proposal, which would permanently constrain navigation on a federally protected waterway.

Recent atmospheric river events have caused rapid and significant increases in Columbia River water levels, temporarily reducing the effective vertical clearance beneath any fixed-span structure. Under these high-water conditions, a 116-foot fixed span would provide even less navigational clearance than advertised, further constraining the ability of taller commercial and recreational vessels to transit the river.

Unlike the existing movable spans, which can accommodate fluctuating river stages, a fixed bridge cannot adapt to elevated water levels. This makes navigation impacts more severe during flood events that are becoming increasingly frequent. This reality underscores why reduced fixed clearance presents a heightened and foreseeable risk to meeting the reasonable needs of navigation.

The U.S. Coast Guard has both the authority and the responsibility to ensure that any proposed structure meets the reasonable needs of navigation on the Columbia River. This includes the authority to reject the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program’s recent attempt to offer mitigation payments to major river users in exchange for lowering the navigation clearance established in the June 2022 Preliminary Navigation Clearance Determination (PNCD), which requires a minimum of 178 feet of vertical clearance.

On behalf of Neighbors for a Better Crossing—representing residents, small businesses, floating-home communities, river-dependent users, and stakeholders on both sides of the river—we respectfully urge the U.S. Coast Guard to deny the IBR program’s proposed 116-foot low fixed-span bridge.

Based on the Coast Guard’s statutory mandate, the formal PNCD issued in June 2022, and evidence provided by independent engineers, maritime users, and the regional business community, we believe the IBR proposal:

• Constitutes an unreasonable obstruction to navigation
• Fails to meet the Coast Guard’s legal and regulatory standards
• Restricts future commerce on a federally protected waterway
• Creates permanent harm for short-term roadway convenience
• Violates the Coast Guard’s obligation to safeguard future navigational needs

This proposal does not represent a long-term solution. It is a short-sighted workaround that would lock the region into 125 years of restricted river commerce.

1. The Coast Guard Has Already Determined That 116 Feet Is Insufficient

In its 2022 PNCD, the Coast Guard concluded that IBR’s proposed clearance creates an unreasonable obstruction, fails to meet current and future maritime needs, prevents several classes of vessels from safely passing, and reduces clearance relative to the existing bridges, which provide approximately 178 feet of vertical clearance.

IBR has offered no new maritime data, no updated vessel-height analysis, and no industry justification to override this determination.

2. Federal Law Requires Protection of Future Navigation, Not Just Present Users

Under the Rivers and Harbors Act, the General Bridge Act, and long-standing Coast Guard practice, the Coast Guard must consider future vessel types, industry growth, commerce expansion, and emergency needs—not just current traffic. The burden of proof lies entirely on the applicant to demonstrate that a new bridge will not obstruct navigation.

Lowering clearance is only permissible if navigational needs are shown to decline. No data supports such a conclusion for the Columbia River. A low fixed span permanently restricts maritime innovation and industrial flexibility for the next century.

3. The Proposed Bridge Conflicts with the Long-Term Economic Role of the Columbia River

The Columbia River is a critical transportation corridor for renewable energy components, tall industrial equipment, shipbuilding and repair, oversized cargo, dredging and maintenance fleets, emergency response vessels, and commercial and tribal fishing infrastructure.

River commerce has repeatedly evolved over the past century and will continue to do so. A fixed span of 116 feet assumes future industry will never require additional clearance. That assumption is demonstrably false.

4. “Mitigation Payments” Highlight a Structural Flaw in the Design

IBR’s proposal included offering cash payments to at least three major river users—Greenberry Industrial, JT Marine, and Western Machine Works—in an apparent effort to settle objections rather than address the underlying navigational deficiency.

While such payments may be legal, they essentially prove the point that the design obstructs navigation and would not otherwise meet river-wide requirements. The Coast Guard cannot permit a bridge that satisfies navigation standards only if companies are paid not to object.

5. The Proposal Locks the Region into a Single, Non-Scalable Design

A low fixed-span bridge cannot be raised, cannot be modified without full replacement, cannot adapt to new industries, and becomes a permanent bottleneck for regional commerce. This directly conflicts with long-term planning principles embedded in the Coast Guard’s bridge-permitting responsibilities.

6. A Low Fixed Bridge Is a Temporary Workaround, not a Long-Term Solution

As noted by Joe Cortright of City Observatory, “You can’t bribe your way to a navigational clearance,” and “The proposed design constrains the waterway for a century.”

NFBC agrees:

This proposal is not future-proof, compliant, adaptable, aligned with the Coast Guard’s legal obligations, or protective of long-term commerce. It is an expedient solution that sacrifices the Columbia River’s integrity and economic potential.

REQUEST

Given the facts outlined above, we respectfully request that the U.S. Coast Guard:

1. Reject the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program’s 116-foot fixed-span proposal
2. Require IBR to submit a design that meets or exceeds existing navigational clearance
3. Reopen evaluation of alternatives, including an Immersed Tube Tunnel

The Columbia River is a federally protected resource and one of the most important waterways in the Pacific Northwest. Decisions made today will shape its use for the next century.

We urge the Coast Guard to uphold its mandate to protect navigation—now and in the future.

Public comments will be received for the record January 11, 2026
Email: d13-smb-d13-bridges@uscg.mil 

Incident: Stolen Vehicle

Location: 27 S Coast Hwy, Newport

Date/Time: December 18th, 2025 @ 0954 hours

Details: Officers responded to 27 S Coast Hwy on the report of a vehicle that had been stolen while the victim was shopping inside of the business. Newport Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies immediately began searching the area for the vehicle. Officers observed surveillance video of the theft and recognized the suspect as Nicholas Hiseley. A short time later, the vehicle was located in Newport by a Deputy. Deputies and Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle on W Olive near NW High Street and identified Hiseley as the driver.  Hiseley was taken into custody without incident and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the below mentioned charges:

NICHOLAS COPELAND HISELEY, 41, OF NEWPORT

• Theft I
• Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle
• Unlawful Use of a Vehicle
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Valentine of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

Information Released By: Sgt. Bales, 541-574-3348

The annual donation will help fund programs supporting the health and education of children and vulnerable families across Oregon and southwest Washington      

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union and its employees donated $66,253 this year to four United Way chapters serving Oregon and southwest Washington. This contribution marks OnPoint’s 19^th annual employee-led fundraising campaign, benefiting United Way in communities the credit union serves. Employees raised $51,253 through creative fundraisers, which OnPoint matched with an additional $15,000 corporate donation.

“Partnerships like this reflect the power of what we can accomplish for our communities together,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our team is proud to support United Way’s efforts to expand education, health and family support programs throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.”

The campaign invited OnPoint’s more than 1,200 employees to make voluntary individual contributions to United Way through fundraisers such as prize drawings, vacation raffles, and Candy Grams. The donation will help fund health and education programs that provide kids and families with equitable opportunities to build a good quality of life. Examples include:

• United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s Early Learning Hubs and other educational initiatives, connect parents and caregivers to free or low-cost preschool for their children, plus access to parenting workshops and classes.
• United Way of Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties’ Linn Can, promotes the safety and well-being of Linn County’s children by raising public awareness about the effects of abuse and neglect.
• United Way of Central Oregon’s KIDS Center, provides no-cost evaluations, family support and therapy to victims of child abuse.
• United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley’s Enrichment Academy, is a before- and after-school program designed to increase student achievement, improve student and family engagement, reduce hunger, and increase wellness.

“We appreciate OnPoint’s continued commitment to our communities,” said Kelly O’Lague, president and CEO of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. “Their support helps us provide reliable services that make a meaningful difference for families across the region.”

The United Way donation follows another impactful year for OnPoint’s annual giving program, donating more than $4 million to 357 nonprofits in Oregon and southwest Washington in 2025. Learn more about OnPoint’s work to address the most critical needs in the communities it serves.

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 About Onpoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 631,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

About United Way of the Columbia-Willamette
For over 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has helped meet the needs of vulnerable families in our region. As part of the United Way Worldwide network, the largest privately funded non-profit in the world, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is uniquely positioned to connect and support the people, non-profits, businesses and government agencies working hard to address poverty in our region. United Way brings people together to build strong, equitable communities where everyone can thrive. As one of the world's largest privately funded charities, it serves 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries and territories -- making life better for 48 million people every year. Through United Way, communities tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and non-profit partners to boost education, economic mobility, and health resources. United Way is the mission of choice for 1.5 million volunteers, 6.8 million donors, and 45,000 corporate partners in more than 1,100 communities worldwide.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

• Online:
  • https://www-auth.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreations Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

• Virtual hearing
  January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

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Portland, Ore. - A second group of advanced practice providers (APPs) at Legacy Health is joining the strike today, signaling growing unrest across the health system. Thirty APPs from Legacy’s Pediatrics department are beginning a two-day solidarity strike, joining 40 APPs from Legacy GoHealth urgent care clinics who are on day two of their own two-day walkout.

Both groups are striking in solidarity with APPs from Legacy’s adult specialties department, who have been on strike since Dec. 2, and are now entering their 21st day on the line. The addition of pediatric APPs underscores escalating discontent across Legacy’s frontline workforce as management returns to mediation today for what is currently the final scheduled session.

Legacy Go Health is the health system’s urgent care operation, and Legacy pediatric APPs provide care to newborns, infants and children across Legacy’s hospitals and clinics.

WHO: Advanced practice providers from Legacy’s Pediatrics department will join APPs from Legacy GoHealth urgent care clinics and the adult specialties unit. The APPs joining the strike include nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician associates (PAs).

WHEN: The strike line will be operating on Monday, Dec. 22 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

At 12:00 p.m. a short rally will be held featuring APPs from across Legacy. APPs from all three units will be available for interviews.

WHERE: Legacy Emanuel, 501 N Graham St, Portland

WHY: On December 9, APPs from Legacy Pediatrics and Legacy GoHealth urgent care clinics announced they had voted to launch solidarity strikes, joining their colleagues on the picket line in support of a fair contract.

APPs from Legacy Pediatrics won their union election in August 2025. Like their colleagues in adult specialties and Legacy GoHealth urgent care, they are deeply concerned about patient care, unsafe staffing levels, inequities across the healthcare system, and Legacy management’s ongoing refusal to bargain fairly.

All three APP groups have made clear they want to be caring for patients—not walking a picket line—but believe this action is necessary to protect patient safety and the future of care at Legacy.

In October, pediatric APPs formally petitioned to join the adult specialties bargaining unit, underscoring the shared concerns and unity among Legacy’s frontline providers.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

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MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Deputies with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) have arrested a 25-year-old fugitive out of Clark County, Washington, and recovered a firearm equipped with an extended magazine.

This investigation began at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Sunday, December 21, 2025, when deputies conducted a traffic stop near Northeast Halsey Street and Northeast Fairview Parkway in Fairview. MCSO deputies identified the driver as Matthew Cash and learned he had an outstanding Clark County warrant for his arrest.

Based on the preliminary investigation, Cash initially complied with deputies but suddenly tried restarting his vehicle during the stop. When the car failed to start, Cash is accused of exiting the vehicle, confronting a deputy in a fighting stance, and running away.

Cash ignored multiple verbal commands to stop. During the foot pursuit, Cash tripped and fell down a small embankment. It is alleged he continued to resist and attempted to run from deputies. Deputies warned Cash that force would be used if he did not comply.

Deputies deployed a Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW), commonly known as a Taser, to gain compliance and safely take Cash into custody. Paramedics responded and conducted a medical evaluation; Cash did not sustain any serious injuries.

During the subsequent investigation, MCSO deputies recovered a handgun with a loaded extended magazine and illegal narcotics. The firearm also had a switch on it converting it from a semi-automatic handgun to fully automatic. These devices allow for the continuous firing of bullets without a person needing to pull the trigger each time.

Deputies booked Cash into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on charges that include attempting to elude by vehicle, attempting to elude on foot, escape, resisting arrest, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and illegal possession of a weapon.

A photo of the seized firearm is being released. Media may use this photo, crediting the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Charges are only allegations, and every arrested person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. ORS 133.870 generally prohibits the release of jail booking photos to the public unless it is determined that there is a law enforcement purpose.

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

IBR Promotes “Giving Away” Historic Interstate Bridges While Withholding Cost Estimate for Replacement Expected by Lawmakers December 15

PORTLAND, OR  The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program’s (IBR) November newsletter lead article—framed as a light-hearted opportunity to “adopt” the historic Interstate 5 bridges—may make for catchy marketing copy, but it glosses over several serious issues that deserve an honest public conversation.

The timing is particularly troubling. While IBR has been promoting the idea of “giving away” the historic bridges, lawmakers were expecting an updated cost estimate for the replacement bridge on December 15. That estimate was not provided, once again.

“There’s a real irony in talking about giving away two historic bridges when there’s no final plan, no cost estimate, no Coast Guard approval, and many funding sources are still pending,” said Kimberly Haslett, Hayden Island resident and volunteer for Neighbors for a Better Crossing (NFBC). “You don’t start dismantling history before you’ve even proven what comes next.”

Historic Bridges Are Not Disposable

The Interstate Bridge opened to traffic in 1917, and according to the National Bridge Inventory as of 2025, there are 262 older roadway bridges currently in service across Oregon and Washington. Oregon alone has 85 bridges built before 1917, and Washington has 177 bridges of similar age—all still in daily use, all with remaining service life.

Against that backdrop, destroying a historic bridge before its time—especially when alternatives exist—would be a tragedy.

These two Interstate Bridges are not simply “fixer-uppers with vintage charm,” as IBR’s newsletter suggests. They are significant pieces of American infrastructure listed on the National Register of Historic Places, constructed using high-quality riveted structural steel manufactured by U.S. Steel, and engineered in a way that has allowed them to remain durable and serviceable for more than a century.

Their longevity is not unusual. Many early 20th-century steel truss bridges across the United States continue to perform well today, which is why so many are successfully retrofitted and converted into pedestrian, bicycle, and community-use structures rather than demolished.

The Interstate Bridge’s 1917 northbound span, now more than 100 years old, remains structurally intact according to historic and engineering documentation, and its survival reflects the long, proven lifespan of well-maintained steel bridges of its era.

Seismic Facts: The Case for Retrofit, Not Demolition

IBR frequently claims that the existing bridges are “seismically unsafe” or “certain to collapse in an earthquake,” IBR’s Seismic Lie. Yet IBR has not produced any recent seismic study or geotechnical analysis to support that conclusion. This is especially concerning given that the last publicly available seismic analysis was conducted in 2006—and that analysis directly contradicts the narrative being pushed today.

The 2006 WSDOT Seismic Vulnerability Study

The 2006 WSDOT/CRC “Panel Assessment of Interstate Bridges Seismic Vulnerabilities,” conducted by structural, geotechnical, and seismic experts, found the following:

• Retrofit is technically feasible.
  The expert panel concluded the historic bridges can be retrofitted to meet modern seismic standards.
• Vulnerable elements were identified but repairable.
  The panel outlined specific retrofit strategies for foundations, piers, bearings, lift-span components, and truss elements—all considered upgradeable.
• Historic character can be preserved.
  The study explicitly notes that retrofit would have minimal visual impact and could maintain the bridges’ historic identity.

The Public Still Has NO Updated Data

Despite spending millions of dollars so far, the IBR program has not released any new seismic modeling, soil liquefaction studies, or engineering reports to support its claim that the bridges must be demolished. NFBC Calls for Current Seismic Study

Until these studies are made public, the claim that the bridges “will collapse in a major earthquake” remains unverified.

Historic Bridges Across the Country are Regularly Retrofitted

Across the United States, historic steel truss bridges have been successfully retrofitted and repurposed for:

• Pedestrian crossings
• Bike networks
• Cultural or scenic overlooks
• Local community connectors

There is no technical reason our region cannot do the same—except for IBR’s political preference for a pre-determined “locally preferred alternative.”

Demolition Is NOT Environmentally Responsible

Destroying two massive steel structures over the Columbia River—rather than retrofitting them—poses major environmental risks, including:

• Turbidity and sediment disruption
• Heavy-metal runoff
• Habitat impacts to salmon, sturgeon, and other river species
• Years of in-water construction disturbance

Claiming that demolition is “green” because the steel is recycled is misleading at best. Continued use is the most sustainable option.

“Giving Away the Bridges” Is a Distraction

Federal rules do require WSDOT and ODOT to offer a historic bridge for reuse before demolition. But the notion that a private citizen or organization could realistically relocate or repurpose two half-mile-long, 100-year-old, fixed-in-place steel truss bridges is pure PR theater—a diversion from the real issues this project refuses to confront.

What We Do Know

• These bridges were built to last
• Seismic retrofit is possible
• Relocating them is not realistic
• The public has never been shown modern seismic data proving demolition is necessary

Which raises the real question:

Why is IBR pushing demolition before showing the public the science?

The Responsible Path Forward

• Preserve the historic bridges in place
• Retrofit them for seismic resilience using strategies already outlined in the 2006 engineering panel
• Repurpose them as bike, pedestrian, and recreation corridors
• Protect the Columbia River from demolition debris and contamination
• Require IBR to release updated seismic testing before any irreversible decisions are made

.

The historic Interstate Bridges are not disposable novelties or marketing props. They are irreplaceable pieces of American history that belong to the public—not assets to be casually offered up as souvenirs. While IBR asks, “How many people get to say they own a century-old bridge?” and suggests that “your new (very old) bridge might just be a call away,” the reality is this: before anyone talks about ownership, relocation, or giveaways, IBR must first present a real plan, real seismic data, real permits, real funding, and real approvals for a replacement crossing. History should not be dismantled on the promise of “stay tuned.”

(Portland, Ore.) - APPs from Legacy GoHealth clinics will join their colleagues on the strike line for a two-day strike starting Sunday, December 21, signaling growing solidarity among advanced practice providers and escalating discontent across Legacy’s workforce.

WHAT: About 40 advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy GoHealth clinics will hold a two-day strike against Legacy Health on Sunday, Dec. 21 and Monday, Dec. 22. The strike comes as mediation between Legacy and the APPs from the adult specialties unit continues.

The APPs joining the strike include nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician associates (PAs) who are employed by Legacy but work in the private equity-owned GoHealth clinics. The APPs are from more than a dozen clinics throughout the Portland metro and Southwest Washington.

WHEN: The strike line will be operating on Sunday, Dec. 21 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Go Health APPs will be available for interviews from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WHERE: Legacy Good Samaritan, 1015 NW 22^nd Ave, Portland; at the intersection of NW 22^nd and NW Marshall

WHY: APPs from GoHealth won their union election in January 2025. Like their counterparts in the adult specialties unit, they are concerned about patient care, staffing, equity across the healthcare system and Legacy management’s refusal to bargain fairly.

The providers say many people who can’t access a primary care provider come to the clinics for basic healthcare. Patient needs vary drastically, while some can be treated during the allotted time, others require management of complex issues, making it difficult to stay on time in an already full appointment schedule. The work performed by APPs at GoHealth clinics is just as complex as that of APPs in the hospitals, but they are also paid well below market rates.

Pediatric APPs from Legacy will also be starting a two-day strike beginning Monday, December 22.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

# # #

Oregon City, ORE. – Two homes have been evacuated on Applegate Terrace and the rest of the street is on a “Level 1 – Be Ready” notice due to landslide activity.

Emergency personnel were alerted by one of the residents when they observed signs of the hillside behind their home shifting. Crews responded to the scene immediately, including Clackamas Fire, Clackamas County Disaster Services, Clackamas County Health Housing and Human Services, Oregon City Public Works and Oregon City Police who sent their drone up to help inspect the area.

An inspection of the hillside by Central Geotechnical Services initially showed that slide activity was limited to the residence of the initial reporting party, and one home immediately to its right. A more in-depth inspection of the hillside will happen Sunday morning, as nightfall hampered efforts for additional inspections.

Crews with Oregon City Public Works’ Wastewater and Water divisions inspected water and sewer lines further down the hill for any signs of damage. No issues were observed by crews, and all signs point to no landslide activity that far from the initial site.  

The City will issue additional updates if necessary as further inspections proceed.

Update: Arrest Made in Fatal Vehicle vs. Pedestrian Crash

The Woodburn Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the fatal vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash that occurred yesterday afternoon (12/19/2025), in the 1400 block of James Street.

Last night, at approximately 7:45 p.m., officers arrested Michael Ryan Bowar, an 18-year-old Woodburn resident, in connection with the incident. Based on evidence obtained during the investigation, officers determined the suspect was under the influence of an intoxicant at the time of the crash, which resulted in the death of Jens Robert Lerback of Woodburn.

Bowar has been charged with the following offenses: Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII), Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering (three counts), and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree. The suspect was lodged at the Marion County Jail.

The Woodburn Police Department is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information about this incident to contact the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345 and reference case number 25-16553.

The investigation remains ongoing and no further information is available at this time. 

LOOSE SEAL FOUND NEAR HIGHWAY

December 20, 2025 – Newport, OR

On December 20, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies located a seal which had wandered up to Highway 101, near Milepost 146, and was moving on the shoulder of the roadway.  Out of concern for the safety of the animal and the individuals on the highway, Deputies swiftly took action and utilized a rope as a lead to prevent the seal from entering the highway. With the assistance of community members, a staff member from the Oregon Coast Aquarium was promptly notified and responded to the scene to secure our flippered friend.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Coast Aquarium for their assistance in safely returning the seal to its home. We wish our new Pinniped pal all the best on his journey!

Traveling on the roads and highways of Lincoln County offer many wonderful sightseeing opportunities. However, we must also be mindful that this area is the natural habitat of several species of wildlife. It's important to be alert and aware of wildlife while commuting.  You may come across deer, elk, birds...and occasionally a seal. In the unfortunate event that someone is unable to avoid a collision with wildlife, the following steps are recommended:

• If you are on a State Highway, in a State Park, on the beaches, or if the animal is protected under Oregon Revised Statute (such as anything hunted or fished in Lincoln County), please contact the Oregon State Police at 541-265-5353 or dial 677 from a mobile phone.
   
• If you’re in the cities of Lincoln City, Newport, or Toledo; Contact the city police department: 
  • Lincoln City Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-994-3636 
  • Newport Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency – 541-574-5807 
  • Toledo Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-336-5555 
     
• If you’re in any other part of Lincoln County or if the animal involved is a pet or livestock; Contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777 

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Salem, Ore.— City operations are returning to normal today as water levels in Salem creeks continue to recede. All Salem roads and parks are now open. While all City parks are open, High Water signs remain in impacted areas. Water levels on the Willamette River remain higher than normal.

We thank everyone for their attention during this weather event. We are grateful for those who called our Public Works Dispatch center to keep our team aware of what you were seeing and experiencing throughout the City.

You can monitor stream conditions, traffic conditions and find sandbag locations through Salem’s websites:

• Our High Water Watch webpage https://hww.onerain.com/ features up-to-the-hour information on Salem stream levels and local rainfall amounts.
• Sandbag filling stations are available at several locations: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/safety/flooding/get-sandbags
• Current Road Conditions (including closures): https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage to see up-to-date information about stream levels, current road conditions, and additional high water safety tips to protect your home.

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report high water or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Deputies with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) are investigating a suspected impaired driving crash that occurred during a pursuit.

This investigation began around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday December 20, 2025, when a MCSO deputy came upon a car that was stopped beyond the white stop line on the exit of Interstate 84 at Northeast 238^th Drive. As the deputy approached, the driver sped off and crossed all lanes of traffic against a red light.

A right-of-way driver had to make an evasive maneuver to avoid being hit by the suspect’s car.

The suspect, later identified as 27-year-old Trevor Shuler, appeared to initially slow down and seemed to be stopping in response to the deputy’s efforts to conduct a traffic stop. However, Shuler sped away again. The deputy initiated a pursuit.

Shuler never pulled over.

MCSO deputies and Gresham Police set up spike strips in an effort to safely end the pursuit.

As Shuler approached the intersection of Southwest Stark Street on Southwest 257^th Drive in Troutdale, he drove through a red light and crashed into a right-of-way vehicle traveling westbound on Southwest Stark Street.

Fortunately, there were no serious injuries to either driver.

MCSO deputies took Shuler into custody without further incident.

During their investigation, MCSO deputies found drugs inside Shuler’s vehicle. MCSO deputies believe, based on their investigation, that Shuler may have been impaired.

Deputies booked Shuler into the Multnomah County Detention Center on multiple charges that include reckless driving, attempting to elude by vehicle, driving under the influence of intoxicants, and unlawful possession of a controlled substance. Shuler also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

No photos are available for release.

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

ORS 133.870 generally prohibits the release of jail booking photos to the public unless it is determined that there is a law enforcement purpose.

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

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Salem, Ore.— After a day of high water, water levels on Salem area creeks are receding. The Level 1 – BE READY alert has been lifted. Sandbag filling stations remain open and stocked.

Beginning tonight and into tomorrow, City staff will be shifting attention to water levels on the Willamette River. The Willamette River through Salem is expected to crest at 23.8 feet by 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 20. This is 4.2 inches below the minor flood stage. The river will be moving quickly through Salem and residents are asked to use caution near and around the water.

Due to high water conditions, some City parks are fully or partially closed, while others have signage warning about high water. Saturday visitors to Minto-Brown Island Park should remain vigilant about high water on trails throughout the park. Salem area parks impacted by high water conditions include:

• Pringle Park: closed
• Woodmansee Park: Parking Lot #3 closed
• Cascades Gateway Park: open, but high-water signage is in place
• Minto-Brown Island Park: open, but high-water signage is in place
• Wallace Marine Park Sports Complex: open, but high-water signage is in place

At this time, three streets remain closed due to high water:

• 24th Street SE and Trade Street SE
• Richmond Avenue SE and Trade Street SE
• 21^st Street SE between State Street and Ferry Street SE

You can monitor stream conditions, traffic conditions and find sandbag locations through Salem’s websites:

• Our High Water Watch webpage https://hww.onerain.com/ features up-to-the-hour information on Salem stream levels and local rainfall amounts.
• Sandbag filling stations are available at several locations: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/safety/flooding/get-sandbags
• Current Road Conditions (including closures): https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage to see up-to-date information about stream levels, current road conditions, and additional high water safety tips to protect your home.

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report high water or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

UPDATE: The suspects in this case have been identified. No further tips are needed at this time. 

Trail Camera Video

Linn County, Ore. (19 Dec. 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify the persons involved in the unlawful take of an antlerless deer and trespassing near Sweet Home.  

On Dec. 10, 2025, Fish and Wildlife troopers responded to a report of a hunter dragging a deer on private property near Scott Mountain Road. Trail camera video obtained by investigating troopers shows two male subjects dragging the deer.
 

Anyone with information identifying the subjects is encouraged to contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, call OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number SP25-495415.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Salem, Ore. — After a day of high water, Salem creeks are at or near cresting. A Level 1 – BE READY alert remains in effect for Mill Creek-adjacent properties. Beginning tonight and into tomorrow, City staff will be shifting attention to water levels on the Willamette River.

Sandbag filling stations remain open and stocked. City crews have been busy across Salem, completing more than 200 emergency work orders since Dec. 16.

Some City parks are fully or partially closed, while others have signage warning about high water.

• Pringle Park: closed
• Woodmansee Park: Parking Lot #3 closed
• Cascades Gateway Park: open, but high-water signage is in place
• Minto-Brown Island Park: open, but high-water signage is in place
• Wallace Marine Park Sports Complex: open, but high-water signage is in place

At this time, three streets remain closed due to high water:

• 3rd Street SE between State Street and Ferry Street SE
• 24th Street SE and Trade Street SE
• Richmond Avenue SE and Trade Street SE

You can monitor stream conditions, traffic conditions and find sandbag locations through Salem’s websites:

• Our High Water Watch webpage https://hww.onerain.com/ features up-to-the-hour information on Salem stream levels and local rainfall amounts.
• Sandbag filling stations are available at several locations: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/safety/flooding/get-sandbags
• Current Road Conditions (including closures): https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage to see up-to-date information about stream levels, current road conditions, and additional high water safety tips to protect your home.

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report high water or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

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The City of Salem anticipates sending the next update on this event by 8 p.m. Dec. 19.

SALEM, Ore. — Recent rainfall combined with saturated ground conditions resulted in the City of Salem overflowing diluted untreated sewage into the Willamette River.

The discharge took place in the 100 block of Union Street NE. The overflow began at about 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18 and was stopped at 8:30 a.m. Dec. 19. About 2.844 million gallons of untreated sewage was spilled.

Five other overflows occurred at other locations across Salem due to the heavy rainfall. They were:

• 4700 block of Glendale Avenue NE: 99,300 gallons into East Fork Little Pudding River
• 1400 block of Greenwood Drive NE: an unknown volume into Claggett Creek
• 500 block of Idylwood Drive SE: an unknown volume into West Fork Pringle Creek
• 2000 block of Village Center Drive SE: an unknown volume into West Middle Fork Pringle Creek
• 4300 block of Nalani Court SE: an unknown volume into West Fork Pringle Creek

To protect public health, signs have been posted advising residents to avoid contact with the water in the Willamette River and the other locations due to potentially elevated bacteria levels. Water quality testing is underway and will continue until results confirm the issue has been resolved. Any bacteria introduced into the river should naturally flush out within the next few days.

If you notice an overflowing sewer manhole or want to report a spill, please contact the Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311.

You can help prevent sewer backups and overflows by keeping fats, oils, rags and grease out of the sewer system. Learn more about preventing sanitary sewer overflows and the City of Salem’s efforts to reduce these events by visiting https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/household/water-utilities/wastewater/how-to-prevent-sewer-back-up.

For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6311 or email us at vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

Pedestrian Fatally Injured in Vehicle Crash

Woodburn, OR: Earlier this afternoon (12/19/25) at approximately 12:47 p.m., the Woodburn Police Department responded to a report of a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash in the 1400 block of James Street.

Upon arrival, officers located a 69-year-old male pedestrian who had been struck by a vehicle. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the involved vehicle remained on scene. Preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling westbound on James Street when it struck an unoccupied parked vehicle and a pedestrian who was in the roadway. The vehicle then continued, striking a second unoccupied parked vehicle before crashing into a residence in the 1400 block of James Street.

No injuries were reported to the driver or the two additional vehicle occupants.  No injuries were reported to occupants inside the residence.

James Street remains closed between Pacific Highway and Tierra Lynn Dr while the investigation continues. Members of the Marion County Crash Team are assisting the investigation.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.

Oregon City, ORE. – With the worst of the historic rainfall over, Oregon City crews are evaluating how the wastewater system weathered the storm.

Crews were monitoring six pump stations throughout the City during the event. Despite record-breaking flows, there were no sanitary sewer overflows from the pump stations.

“We had round the clock monitoring of the stations as this type of inflow is far beyond what the system normally must contend with. Fortunately, the system was able to handle the flows and none of the neighborhood stations overflowed,” said Public Works Director Dayna Webb.

One issue that did occur was a sewer main beneath Singer Hill Road in the historic McLoughlin District.

An overflow was first reported on Dec. 15, which was determined to have been caused by a blocked pipe.

The blockage was cleared and the overflow quickly subsided. The spill was outside of the pedestrian travel zone, and the Grand Staircase remains safe to use.

When the next round of record-breaking rainfall came, the pipe overflowed again. Crews are unable to determine an exact cause due to the location of the potential break, and the incredibly high flows that persist through the system.

“When you have a historic community, you also have historic infrastructure that can be challenging to work on,” said Webb.

“In this case the sewer pipe runs beneath Singer Hill Road and the Grand Staircase below before making a sharp drop down the hill. Between its location and the high water flows, we can’t get a camera in to scope out the problem.”

The Public Works team is working with a consulting engineer to determine the best way to move forward.

-END-

There was poetry, pageantry, and even the ceremonial breaking of bottles as fourth- and fifth-grade students from Barnes and Wallace Elementary Schools officially christened two student-built miniboats at the Columbia River Maritime Museum on Thursday, December 18.

The dual christening ceremony marked the culmination of 10 weeks of hands-on, multidisciplinary STEAM learning through the Miniboat Program, led in partnership with the museum’s education director, Katy Menne, and boat educator, Nathan Yeh. Throughout the project, students designed and built seaworthy vessels while diving into real-world learning connected to oceanography, environmental science, climatology, meteorology, navigation, map reading, naval architecture, and more.

At the celebration, students proudly shared their learning, recited original poems, toasted their vessels, and sent them off with well-wishes for safe travels—just as mariners have done for centuries.

The uncrewed miniboats—M/B Titanic Unsinkabear and M/B Survivor—are equipped with GPS tracking devices that allow anyone to follow their journey once they are launched into the Pacific Ocean. Next week, both miniboats will be delivered to the Buena Ventura, a bulk carrier sailing under the Panamanian flag. During the ship’s southern voyage, the miniboats will be released into the ocean, with tracking expected to begin in January.

Once launched, their journeys can be followed online at:

• M/B Titanic Unsinkabear: https://educationalpassages.org/boats/titanicunsinkabear/
• M/B Survivor: https://educationalpassages.org/boats/survivor/

“This experience brought learning to life for our students in a powerful way,” said Seth Peck, principal of Barnes Elementary. “They weren’t just studying science and engineering—they were applying it, problem-solving together, and seeing how their ideas could become something real that connects them to the world beyond our classroom walls. It’s the kind of learning students remember long after the project ends.”

Wallace Elementary principal Ray Cattin added, “The Miniboat Program gave our students a sense of purpose, pride, and possibility. They learned their curiosity, teamwork, and perseverance can carry their ideas far—sometimes even across oceans. Experiences like this help students see themselves as capable learners and explorers.”

Kelso School District has been fortunate to host the Miniboat Program multiple times thanks to a generous donor who wanted to bring the experience to local students. The program is offered at no cost to schools and is funded entirely through donations and grants.

Kelso students have a proud history with the program:

• In 2022, Wallace students built and launched Boat to Freedom. Its deck was later discovered in Hawaii by a man searching for his lost wedding band and now hangs in Julie Toney’s classroom.
• Barnes students launched Grizzly Bear in 2024, which last reported its location in March 2025.
• Wallace launched Wolverine in Spring 2025—and it is still reporting today.

Each launch connects classroom learning to the wider world, reminding students that their curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills can take them farther than they ever imagined—even across oceans.

Salem, Ore. (Dec. 19, 2025) – The Oregon State Police Salem Patrol Office is asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect who stole a side-by-side vehicle and multiple items from the Oregon School for the Deaf in Salem. The stolen property is valued at approximately $50,000.

On Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a male suspect entered the property and climbed through a building window. The suspect placed items on a side-by-side vehicle and then drove off the property with the stolen items.

The suspect is described as a white male adult in his mid-30s, between 5 ft. 7 in. and 6 ft. tall, weighing approximately 180 to 225 pounds. He has red facial hair and was wearing an orange sweatshirt, green sweatpants with “UO Oregon” on the left leg, and a brown hat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP’s Northern Command Dispatch Center at 800-442-0776 or by dialing OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-504177.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Today, the county is shifting into recovery phase following last night’s heavy rainfall. There are several road closures due to water and debris hazards and officials are asking the public to avoid county recreation areas. Crews are working to clear roads and assess flood damage.

Road Closure Updates

Re-Opened

• Country Club Road: From Frankton Road to Post Canyon Road

Remains Closed

• Barrett Drive: From Country Club Road to Markham Road
• Woodworth Drive: From Allen Drive to Hwy 35
• Hwy 35: From milepost 73 to 75.89

These roads will remain closed until safe to reopen. Please follow all road closure signs, drive with caution and expect delays. Anticipate heavy water and debris in roadways throughout the county. Visit TripCheck.com for current travel advisories.

Recreation

For public safety, all county forest roads, trails, and parks are closed to the public due to hazardous conditions such as downed trees, washed-out roads, and landslides. Please stay clear of these areas to allow our crews to work safely on storm recovery efforts. Signage may or may not be in place alerting of this closure.

Reporting Damage

Report storm damage of county roads or county-owned property to Public Works: 541-386-2616.

If you have damage to your personal property, please contact your home insurance provider.

Sandbag Availability

Sand and empty bags are available free today (12/19) for pickup until 5pm at Public Works: 918 18^th Street. Please bring a shovel and gloves.

YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. (19 Dec. 2025) – On Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 4:44 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 99W near milepost 30.5 in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Toyota Camry, operated by Jackie Sue Williams (33) of Dundee, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 99W, passing multiple vehicles. The operator (Williams) lost control of the vehicle, which left the roadway on the right side. The Camry struck several trees before it came to an uncontrolled rest.

The operator (Williams) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The vehicle’s passenger, Skyler Wayne Goodwin (29) of Waldport, was also pronounced deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Amity Fire Department, Lafayette Fire Department, McMinnville Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit that investigates 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.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) hosted nearly 80 Community Transitional School (CTS) students for a holiday party where MCSO members gifted each child personalized presents purchased on their behalf.

“For many of these children, this may be the only gift or formal holiday celebration they have this season,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Being able to show up for them, as people who care, is what this work is really about. Seeing our deputies and professional staff connect with these kids and share genuine moments of happiness reminds us why service matters, especially during the holidays.”

Each December, MCSO members are given the opportunity to select a gift tag that includes a student’s name, age, and wish. MCSO members purchase the requested items, and every student receives their specific wish along with new shoes, apparel, socks, and winter hats.

After collecting the gifts, MCSO members package them in holiday sacks for distribution at the annual celebration. The event featured live music, a magician, and a visit with Santa.

MCSO has partnered with CTS for more than 30 years.

CTS serves some of the area’s most vulnerable children, many of whom face financial, housing, and food insecurities. According to the school, half of the student body moves at least once annually, with some relocating eight to 10 times during a single school year.

During the celebration, MCSO Corrections Division Chief Deputy Stephen Reardon presented CTS leadership with a $13,000 check raised through an annual private fundraiser. The donation supports the school’s mission of providing a stable educational environment.

MCSO extends heartfelt thanks to the community partners who made the event possible.

For more information about the Community Transitional School and its mission, visit: https://www.transitionalschool.org/

For more information about future MCSO community events follow us on social media.

Several photos are being released.

Media may use these photos, crediting the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

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MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Aurora Lake, a critical care nurse practitioner and ONA member who is 8 months pregnant, will be available for interviews at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 19 at the strike line outside Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

(Portland, Ore.) — Legacy Health is escalating its intimidation campaign against frontline healthcare workers by threatening to terminate health insurance for striking advanced practice providers (APPs) effective January 1, 2026. This retaliatory move—announced just six days before Christmas—puts caregivers and their families at risk and exposes the extreme measures Legacy executives are willing to take to put profits over patients and workers.

For many APPs, the consequences are immediate and severe. Among those affected are pregnant clinicians who rely on continuous healthcare coverage during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. 

Aurora Lake, a critical care nurse practitioner who is 8 months pregnant, had this to say: “Legacy does not have to do this, they are choosing to do this. They are choosing to threaten their caregivers, choosing to threaten our families, and even choosing to threaten pregnant employees like me.”

Stripping healthcare from striking workers is a familiar strike-busting tactic—and a particularly cruel one. Legacy’s threat comes as APPs continue to advocate for conditions that allow them to provide safe, ethical, and sustainable care to the community.

“I am eight months pregnant and preparing to bring a child into the world,” Lake continued. “Legacy knows exactly what they’re doing. They are threatening to take away my healthcare at the very moment I need it most—not because they have to, but because they want to scare us. This decision was made by the highest-paid employees at Legacy and no healthcare system that claims to value patients would ever treat caregivers this way—especially someone who could give birth at any moment.”

Legacy’s stated mission is to provide “good health for our people.” It also frequently touts its commitment to “people-centered care” and celebrates its clinicians in public-facing marketing. Yet behind closed doors, decisions are being made by the highest-paid executives to punish the very workers who make patient care possible.

This intimidation tactic is the result of Legacy’s own choices and will likely damage the relationship between frontline caregivers and management long after the strike ends. It will not have the effect Legacy intends. Frontline providers remain united in their commitment to bargain in good faith and secure a fair contract, and in our demand for respect, fair treatment, and a healthcare system that puts patients and caregivers before profits.

Aurora Lake will be available for interviews at 11:30 a.m. at the Legacy Emanuel strike line.

Update on Mediation
Mediation on Thursday, December 18, did not result in any agreement, as Legacy management continues to play games at the bargaining table rather than engage in meaningful negotiations. Despite repeated efforts by ONA APPs to move talks forward and bargain around the clock, Legacy has failed to demonstrate good faith or a genuine commitment to resolving this dispute—delaying progress while escalating pressure tactics outside the mediation room.

The next mediation session is scheduled for Monday, December 22, when APPs once again hope Legacy will abandon delay tactics and come prepared to negotiate seriously.

In response to Legacy’s continued delays and threats against striking workers, solidarity among caregivers is growing. Approximately 80 APPs from Legacy GoHealth and Legacy Pediatrics will be joining the picket lines for solidarity strikes from Sunday, December 20 through Tuesday, December 22. Their participation underscores the deep concern across Legacy facilities about management’s approach and the shared commitment among caregivers to fight for safe, ethical, and sustainable healthcare.

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Salem, Ore. — Some areas of Salem will see more flooding today. Waters will continue to rise until larger streams – Mill Creek, Shelton Ditch and lower Pringle Creek north of Mission Street – hit their peak sometime between 2 and 7 p.m. today.

While significant rain is now over, the upper Mill Creek watershed received more rain overnight than anticipated. Flood water is now pushing through Salem. This flood water will impact areas of Mill Creek, Shelton Ditch and lower Pringle Creek north of Mission Street.

You can monitor stream conditions, traffic conditions and find sandbag locations through Salem’s websites:

• Our High Water Watch webpage https://hww.onerain.com/ features up-to-the-hour information on Salem stream levels and local rainfall amounts.
• Sandbag filling stations are available at several locations: https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/safety/flooding/get-sandbags
• Current Road Conditions (including closures): https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/transportation-getting-around/traffic-road-conditions/current-road-conditions-map

Due to rising water levels, City services at the Parkway Building (440 Church St. SE) are closed today, including the Customer Service Center and the Permit Application Center. All other City facilities remain open.

• Customer Service Center. Customers requiring assistance from the Customer Service Center are encouraged to visit the Broadway (2850 Broadway St. NE) location. The City's Customer Service Center is available by phone at 503-588-7272 or info@cityofsalem.net.
• Permit Application Center. For the remainder of today, the City's Permit Application Center is available by phone at 503-588-6256 or you can work with us online at https://permits.cityofsalem.net/PACPortal

See Salem’s Emergency and Disaster Preparedness webpage to see up-to-date information about stream levels, current road conditions, and additional high water safety tips to protect your home.

Contact the Public Works Dispatch Center any time at 503-588-6311 to report high water or other weather-related concerns. Sign up for Community Alerts to receive emergency notifications. 

Español a continuación

CORVALLIS, Ore. — High water is impacting several County-maintained roads across Benton County, with some closures and others open to limited or cautious travel. Conditions may change quickly as water levels fluctuate.

The public can find the latest road closures, updates and sandbag filling station locations on the Benton County Public Works website: https://pw.bentoncountyor.gov/road-maintenance-closures-and-updates/

“Conditions can change quickly during high water events, and staying informed is one of the most important things people can do right now,” said Bryan Lee, Benton County emergency manager. “Please avoid flooded roads, follow local information, and sign up for emergency alerts so you can receive timely updates.”

Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and never drive through standing water. Road concerns can be reported to Benton County Public Works at 541-766-6821

County residents who live in Corvallis can report flooding via Corvallis Connect by searching “flood” in the portal and selecting “High Water or Flooding.”

Residents whose homes, property or buildings are damaged by storms or flooding should report damage to Benton County Community Development before beginning cleanup or repairs. Damage reports help support requests for state and federal disaster assistance. Reports can be made at 541-766-6819.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications through Linn-Benton Alert at  https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/linn-benton-alert/ and continue monitoring local weather updates.

Español 

New filtration facility will reduce impacts of storm runoff in the future

Heavy rains have caused a rapid increase in turbidity (organic material suspended in the water) in the Bull Run Watershed. Due to this increased turbidity, the Portland Water Bureau has temporarily turned off the Bull Run water supply and is serving 100 percent groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

No action is needed by the public. The community’s water supply remains safe to drink. The Columbia South Shore Well Field is doing what it was designed to do: meeting our community’s drinking water needs while complying with safe drinking water regulations.

Operations Manager Kimberly Gupta said the transition from Bull Run water to 100 percent groundwater went smoothly. She credits ratepayers’ ongoing investments in Portland’s two water sources and the dedication of the Water Bureau staff who keep the water system working.

"Getting water to flow from a faucet seems simple," Gupta said. "But it takes the hard work of engineers, construction crews, customer service staff, certified operators and more to continually deliver safe water."

Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light said groundwater is a powerful tool in planning for extreme weather.

“We constantly monitor water quality and plan ahead for the weather’s impact on our water supply,” said Light. “This careful planning ensures we’re ready to meet our region’s water needs now and into the future.”

The new Bull Run filtration facility will be another powerful tool in addressing the potential water quality impacts of extreme weather events. The filtration facility will be able to remove sediment, organic material and other contaminants from our water—enabling the Water Bureau to reliably serve Bull Run water after an event like an extreme storm. It will also remove disease-causing microorganisms from our water to make it even safer.

Columbia South Shore Well Field

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a robust secondary drinking water source that supplements our Bull Run supply. It can be used to augment water from the Bull Run during hot, dry summers and can be served when Bull Run water is unavailable for other reasons, such as a storm, flood, fire or natural disaster. Together, our two water sources improve the reliability of our water system and ensure that we can deliver excellent water every minute of every day.

Groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water quality standards. The well field produces high-quality drinking water from protected aquifers deep below the ground.

Depending on a household’s location, it can take up to two weeks for groundwater to move through the distribution system and replace Bull Run water at the tap. The Water Bureau will operate the groundwater system as long as weather conditions and water quality dictate. The Water Bureau will issue a notification when the system returns to 100 percent Bull Run water.

Learn more about our groundwater at portland.gov/groundwater.Customers with questions should contact the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

Bull Run Treatment Projects

The Bull Run Filtration Project will reduce the impact of turbidity events and remove Cryptosporidium and other potential contaminants from the Bull Run supply, producing cleaner, safer water for the nearly one million people who use our water today and for future generations. The project is required by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and a compliance agreement with the Oregon Health Authority. Visit portland.gov/filtration for more information.

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 over 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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Wesley Leon Williams, died the afternoon of December 18, 2025. Williams was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Williams entered DOC custody on May 1, 2023, from Yamhill County with an earliest release date of December 13, 2027. Williams was 78 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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Refreshed campus café expands access, efficiency, and scratch-made dining for students and employees

SALEM, OREGON — January 6, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College, in partnership with Genuine Foods, a national leader in scratch-made, purpose-driven dining, will celebrate the grand reopening and ribbon-cutting of the Going Up Café in Building 2 on Tuesday, January 6, at 10:00 a.m.

The refreshed café represents the next phase of a culinary partnership launched in 2023. Through facility modernization, Chemeketa and Genuine Foods are prioritizing campus food access by improving functionality, faster service, and enhancing the overall dining experience for students and employees.

The updated Going Up Café now features:

• A new walk-up coffee window for quick service between classes
   

• Online ordering for efficient, mobile-friendly pickup
   

• An expanded, rotating menu with fresh, scratch-made offerings
   

• Enhanced kitchen infrastructure serving as the primary culinary hub for the Salem campus
   

“This transformation reflects our commitment to creating spaces that support student success and foster a sense of community,” said Elizabeth Facanha, event manager at Chemeketa. “We are excited to offer a refreshed café experience that better aligns with campus needs.”

Genuine Foods worked closely with college leadership to optimize the café layout and elevate the food experience while maintaining the convenience of the existing location and accessible pricing.

“We believe that good food unlocks potential,” said Paula Reichel, chief innovation officer for Genuine Foods. “This makeover gives students and staff more of what they’ve asked for—from hot meals to grab-and-go coffee to friendlier service. We’re proud of what we’ve built together.”

Grand Opening Event Details

• What: Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for Going Up Café
   

• When: Tuesday, January 6, at 10:00 a.m.
   

• Where: Building 2, Chemeketa Community College
   

• Address: 4000 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem, OR 97305
   

The event will include remarks from campus leadership and opportunities to sample café menu favorites.

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

Genuine Foods is a national purpose-driven food service company, turning everyday meals into memorable experiences through delicious, scratch-made dishes rooted in culinary excellence, health and wellness, and hospitality that goes beyond the plate. The company serves public and private K–12 schools, colleges and universities, and healthcare facilities across the country using fresh ingredients, a people-first approach, and a deep commitment to integrity and community impact. For more information, visit genuinefoods.com.

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Elections Office will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 24, and Thursday, Dec. 25.

The Elections Office will reopen on Friday, Dec. 26. The office is located at 1408 Franklin St. Office hours are 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday.

Find information on Elections on the county’s website at www.clarkvotes.org.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) is proud to announce that Jeff Bailey, president and CEO of Bank of Eastern Oregon in Heppner, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award. The prestigious honor, which recognizes exceptional leadership and dedication to industry advocacy, was presented to Bailey during a banking industry event held Dec. 11 in Portland.

Named in honor of the late Frank E. Brawner, who served as OBA’s CEO from 1977 to 1997, the Advocacy Award celebrates individuals who exemplify Brawner’s legacy as a fierce, effective, and passionate champion for the banking industry. Jeff Bailey embodies these qualities and has distinguished himself as one of Oregon banking’s most trusted and respected advocates.

Bailey is the first two-time recipient of the Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award, having previously received the honor in 2018. Whether meeting with legislators in his home region of Morrow County, traveling to Salem to testify before legislative committees, or advocating on behalf of Oregon banks in Washington, D.C., Bailey consistently answers the call. He has participated in multiple OBA advocacy trips to meet with Oregon’s congressional delegation and federal regulators, addressing issues ranging from regulatory reform to policies that encourage de novo, or new bank, formation. Bailey also demonstrates his commitment through leadership-level support of OBA’s political advocacy efforts, both personally and through his bank.

A native of Enterprise and a graduate of Eastern Oregon University, Bailey began his banking career with Bank of Eastern Oregon as a commercial loan officer in Gilliam County. Over nearly 30 years with the bank, he has held a variety of leadership roles, including chief credit officer from 2003 to 2009. He was named president in 2008 and assumed the role of CEO the following year.

Bailey is equally recognized for his service to the broader banking industry and to his community. He is a past chair of both the Oregon Bankers Association and the Community Banks of Oregon and currently serves on the OBA board as well as on the board of OBA’s wholly owned subsidiary, Synergy by Association. In 2021, he was inducted into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame, the highest peer-bestowed honor in the industry. In Eastern Oregon, Bailey remains deeply involved in civic and economic development efforts, including the Willow Creek Valley Economic Development Group, the Heppner Chamber of Commerce, and numerous nonprofit organizations.

“Jeff brings common sense, integrity, and sincerity to conversations with policymakers, even when those conversations are difficult but necessary,” said OBA Senior Vice President and Government Affairs Director Kevin Christiansen. “He never shies away from standing up for our industry or making sure our voice is heard.”

Established in 2015, the Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award honors bankers who demonstrate extraordinary support for OBA’s advocacy efforts and a deep commitment to protecting the future of the industry. With this recognition, Jeff Bailey joins a distinguished group of recipients and further cements his legacy as a leading advocate for Oregon banking.