Monday, October 12, 2026

Contact: Heidi Hagemeier, Arts & Culture Communications Coordinator, heidi.hagemeier@biz.oregon.gov, 971-518-0966

Oregon Arts Commission awards $1.3 million in Sustaining Arts Program grants to 317 organizations statewide

SALEM — The Oregon Arts Commission has awarded more than $1.3 million in grants to 317 arts and culture organizations across Oregon through its Sustaining Arts Program for fiscal year 2027.

The Sustaining Arts Program supports nonprofit arts organizations that offer ongoing, high-quality outreach programs and arts services or artistic programming in their communities. Awards are based on a funding formula that considers an organization’s annual expenses, the number of applications received and available grant funds. This fiscal year—from July 2026-June 2027—grant awards range from $1,000 to $18,000.

“Arts and culture is part of the vibrancy of Oregon - sparking discovery, conversation and connection,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “These grant awards are a vital investment in creating access to arts and culture for all Oregonians.”

“We know there’s a multiplier effect in providing funding support for arts and culture,” said Oregon Arts and Culture Director Amy Lewin. “These organizations energize local economies and their communities by providing cultural opportunities in every corner of the state. We’re pleased to support their ongoing work.”

Funds for this grant program are provided by the state of Oregon general fund through its support of the Oregon Arts Commission and by the National Endowment for the Arts through a grant to the Arts Commission.

Grant category key:

Group A Organizations with annual expenses of less than $150,000.
Group B Organizations with annual expenses equal to or greater than $150,000.

FY2026 Sustaining Arts Program grants awards by region:

Central

Jefferson, Deschutes and Crook counties

Group A

Cascade Chorale Association, Bend: $1,000

Central Oregon Mastersingers Inc, Bend: $2,250

Ellipse Theatre Community, Bend: $2,000

Kaycee Anseth Legacy Foundation, Bend: $1,000

OperaBend, Bend: $1,000

Ballet Bend, Bend: $1,000

Group B

BendFilm Inc, Bend: $7,025

Cascade School of Music, Bend: $7,025

Scalehouse, Bend: $5,000

SFF Presents, Sisters: $7,525

SSJ Inc, Sisters: $5,000

Sunriver Music Festival Inc, Sunriver: $5,000

Tananáwit, Warm Springs: $5,000

High Desert Museum, Bend: $15,000

Tower Theatre Foundation Inc, Bend: $8,000

Greater Eastern – North

Gilliam, Morrow, Umatilla, Wheeler and Grant counties

Group B

Pendleton Center for the Arts, Pendleton: $5,000

Oregon East Symphony, Pendleton: $5,000

Greater Eastern – South

Harney and Malheur counties

Group A

Drexel H. Foundation, Vale: $2,000

Group B

Painted Sky Center for the Arts, John Day: $5,000

Portland Metro

Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties

Group A

Airlie Press, Portland: $1,000

Amadeus Chamber Orchestra, Portland: $1,000

Anonymous Theatre Company, Tigard: $1,000

A Notion, A Scream, Portland: $1,000

Aspen Meadow Band, Colton: $2,500

Aurora Chorus, Portland: $2,500

Bach Cantata Choir, Portland: $2,250

Bells of the Cascades, Tualatin: $1,000

Cathedral Park Performing Arts Collective, Portland: $2,250

Creative & Emerging Technology Institute, Portland: $5,000

Classical Up Close, Tigard: $1,000

Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Micheal O Domhnaill Branch of OR, Portland: $1,000

Community Jams, Portland: $2,000

Conchords Chorale, Tualatin: $1,000

Shaun Keylock Company, Portland: $1,000

Dance for Parkinson's Oregon, Lake Oswego: $1,000

Elbow Room, Portland: $5,000

Elevate Unity Inc, Portland: $2,250

EnTaiko, Portland: $2,500

Fool House Art Collective, Lake Oswego: $1,000

Friends of IFCC, Portland: $2,500

FROGTOWN, Portland: $1,000

From the Ground Up, Portland: $5,000

Future Prairie, Portland: $1,000

Greater Portland Flute Society, Portland: $1,000

Heidi Duckler Dance Northwest, Portland: $1,000

Immigrant Story, Portland: $2,250

In Mulieribus, Portland: $2,500

ISing Community Choir, Beaverton: $2,500

Many Hats Collaboration, Portland: $2,250

Media-Rites, Portland: $1,000

Medicine Bear Native American Spiritual Encampment, Portland: $2,500

Misfit Academy, Portland: $2,000

MusicOregon, Portland: $2,250

Music Workshop, Portland: $5,500

Cascadia Composers, Portland: $1,000

New Moon Productions, Portland: $1,000

Northwest Dance Theatre, Tualatin: $2,500

Oregon Alliance of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, Portland: $1,000

Oregon Chorale, Hillsboro: $2,250

Oregon Origins Project, Portland: $2,500

Performance Works NW, Portland: $2,250

Piano Santa Foundation, Portland: $1,000

Portland Area Theatre Alliance, Portland: $5,000

Portland Chamber Music, Portland: $1,000

Portland Child Art Studio, Portland: $2,500

Portland Fire Fighters Pipes and Drums, Portland: $1,000

Portland Panorama, Portland: $2,500

Portland Radio Project, Portland: $2,250

Portland SummerFest, Portland: $2,500

PUSH FOLD, Portland: $2,500

Radix Vocal Ensemble, Portland: $1,000

Renegade Opera, Portland: $1,000

Risk/Reward, Portland: $2,250

Rose City Pride Bands, Portland: $2,000

Shady Pines Radio, Portland: $2,500

Sincere Studio, Portland: $2,500

Siren Nation Inc, Portland: $1,000

Stage Fright Festival, Portland: $1,000

Swan Songs, Portland: $1,000

Takohachi Inc, Portland: $2,500

The Artback, Portland: $1,000

The Wave Elements Global Music, Portland: $1,000

Tualatin Valley Community Band, Tigard: $1,000

Tualatin Valley Symphony, Tigard: $1,000

Unlock the Arts, Portland: $1,000

Westside Orchestra Association, Hillsboro: $1,000

Women in Film-Portland, Portland: $1,000

Zephyr Clarinet Choir, Tigard: $1,000

Group B

21ten Theatre, Portland: $5,000

Alberta Abbey Foundation, Portland: $7,025

Friends of Noise, Portland: $7,025

All Classical, Portland: $12,000

Architectural Foundation of Oregon, Portland: $7,025

Art in Oregon, Portland: $5,000

Art in the Pearl, Portland: $5,000

Artists Repertory Theatre, Portland: $7,115

Clackamas County Arts Alliance, Oregon City: $5,000

A-WOL Dance Collective Inc, Portland: $5,025

Bag & Baggage Productions, Hillsboro: $5,250

The Beaverton Arts Foundation, Beaverton: $10,000

Beaverton Symphony Orchestra, Beaverton: $5,000

BodyVox Inc, Portland: $7,115

Boom Arts, Portland: $5,000

Broadway Rose Theatre Company, Tigard: $10,000

Caldera, Portland: $10,000

Cappella Romana Inc, Portland: $7,015

Chamber Music Northwest, Portland: $8,000

Clackamas Repertory Theatre, Oregon City: $5,025

CoHo Productions, Portland: $5,000

Corrib Theatre, Portland: $5,000

Cracked Pots, Portland: $5,000

Curious Comedy Productions, Portland: $5,115

CymaSpace, Portland: $5,115

Echo Theater Company, Portland: $7,025

Choral Arts Ensemble, Portland: $5,000

Ethos Inc, Portland: $7,025

Experience Theatre Project, Beaverton: $5,000

Film Action Oregon, Portland: $12,000

Friends of Chamber Music, Portland: $6,025

Gather:Make:Shelter, Portland: $5,025

Hand2Mouth, Portland: $5,000

Hellenic-American Cultural Center & Museum, Portland: $5,000

Imago the Theatre Mask Ensemble, Portland: $5,015

In a Landscape, Portland: $7,025

Independent Publishing Resource Center, Portland: $5,000

Lakewood Theatre Company, Lake Oswego: $8,000

Literary Arts Inc, Portland: $12,000

Live Wire Radio, Portland: $5,250

MetroEast Community Media, Gresham: $7,525

Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Portland: $7,025

Miracle Theatre Group, Portland: $5,025

Montavilla Jazz Festival, Portland: $5,000

My Voice Music, Portland: $6,025

New Expressive Works, Portland: $5,000

North Pole Studio, Portland: $5,000

Northwest Children's Theater & School Inc, Portland: $10,000

Northwest Professional Dance Project, Portland: $7215

Old Church Society Inc, Portland: $5,250

Open Hearts Open Minds, Portland: $5,000

Open Space, Portland: $5,025

Oregon ArtsWatch, Portland: $5,015

Oregon Ballet Theatre, Portland: $15,000

Oregon BRAVO Youth Orchestras, Portland: $7,015

Oregon Center for Contemporary Art, Portland: $5,025

Oregon Children's Theatre Company, Portland: $7,075

Oregon International Ballet Academy, Portland: $5,000

Oregon Repertory Singers, Portland: $5,115

Oregon Society of Artists, Portland: $5,025

Oregon Symphony Association, Portland: $18,000

OrpheusPDX, Portland: $5,000

Outside the Frame, Portland: $6,075

Pacific Youth Choir, Portland: $5,015

PassinArt: A Theatre Company, Portland: $5,000

Phame Academy, Portland: $6,025

Play It Forward, Beaverton: $5,500

PlayWrite, Portland: $5,000

Portland Art Museum, Portland: $18,000

Portland Baroque Orchestra, Portland: $7,000

Portland Center Stage, Portland: $15,000

Open Signal, Portland: $1,000

Portland Cultural Dance Collective, Portland: $5,015

Portland Drama Club, Portland: $5,000

Portland Experimental Theatre Ensemble, Portland: $5,015

Portland Gay Men's Chorus, Inc, Portland: $5,250

Portland Institute for Contemporary Art, Portland: $8,000

PDX Jazz, Portland: $7,075

Portland Lesbian Choir, Portland: $5,000

Portland Opera Association Inc, Portland: $13,000

Portland Piano International, Portland: $5,025

Portland Playhouse, Portland: $7,775

Portland Revels, Portland: $5,000

Portland Street Art Alliance, Portland: $7,015

Portland Taiko, Portland: $5,000

Portland Youth Philharmonic, Portland: $7,525

Profile Theatre Project, Portland: $6,000

Regional Arts & Culture Council, Portland: $1,000

Rejoice! Diaspora Dance Theater, Portland: $5,000

Resonance Ensemble, Portland: $5,000

Scarlet Sails Cultural Foundation, Beaverton: $5,000

SCRAP Creative Reuse, Portland: $7,115

Shaking the Tree Theatre, Portland: $5,000

STAGES Performing Arts Youth Academy, Hillsboro: $5,000

Sticky Culture, Portland: $2,000

Street Books, Portland: $5,000

Stumptown Stages, Portland: $5,025

Synth Library Portland, Portland: $2,250

The Portland Ballet, Portland: $6,025

The Vanport Mosaic, Portland: $5,000

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

Third Rail Repertory Theatre, Portland: $5,025

Tilikum Chamber Orchestra, Portland: $1,000

Vibe of Portland, Portland: $5,000

Western Alliance of Arts Administrators Foundation, Portland: $7,025

White Bird, Portland: $7,025

Willamette Light Brigade, Portland: $6,025

Willamette Writers, Portland: $5,000

Write Around Portland, Portland: $5,000

Arts for Learning Northwest, Portland: $7,525

Young Musicians & Artists, Portland: $5,500

Youth Music Project, West Linn: $8,000

Mid-Valley

Yamhill, Polk and Marion counties

Group A

Arts Alliance of Yamhill County, McMinnville: $2,000

Focus on Book Arts, Monmouth: $1,000

Keizer Homegrown Theatre, Keizer: $1,000

McMinnville Film Festival Foundation, McMinnville: $2,250

Oregon Artists Series Foundation, Salem: $1,000

Oregon Community Theatre Alliance, McMinnville: $1,000

Salem Big Band, Salem: $1,000

Salem Orchestra, Salem: $1,000

Salem Pops Orchestra, Salem: $1,000

Salem Youth Symphony Association, Salem: $2,500

Silverton Arts Association, Silverton: $2,000

Oregon Spirit Chorus, Salem: $2,500

The Moxie Initiative, Salem: $1,000

Oregon Symphony Association in Salem, Salem: $5,000

Western Oregon University Development Foundation, Monmouth: $2,000

Theatre 33 of Willamette University, Salem: $2,500

Group B

Chehalem Center Association, Newberg: $7,025

Historic Elsinore Theatre, Salem: $7,025

Pentacle Theatre, Salem: $5,175

Salem Art Association, Salem: $5,500

Oregon Symphony Association in Salem, Salem: $5,000

Willamette Master Chorus, Salem: $5,000

Yamhill Enrichment Society, McMinnville: $5,025

North Central

Hood River, Wasco, and Sherman counties

Group B

Columbia Center for the Arts, Hood River: $5,000

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

North Coast

Clatsop, Columbia, and Tillamook counties

Group A

Arts Council of Clatsop County, Astoria: $1,000

Astoria Arts and Movement Center, Astoria: $2,500

Astoria Visual Arts, Inc, Astoria: $2,250

Columbia Chorale of Oregon, Warren: $1,000

North Coast Chorale, Astoria: $1,000

The Writer's Guild, Astoria: $2,000

Tolovana Arts Colony, Cannon Beach: $2,500

Trail's End Art Association, Gearhart: $1,000

Group B

Hoffman Center, Manzanita: $2,500

Liberty Restoration Inc, Astoria: $7225

Ten Fifteen Productions, Astoria: $5,000

Northeast

Wallowa, Union and Baker counties

Group A

Eastern Oregon Film Festival, La Grande: $2,500

Grande Ronde Symphony Association, La Grande: $2,250

Group B

Crossroads Creative and Performing Arts Center Inc, Baker City: $5,115

Art Center East, La Grande: $5,000

Fishtrap Inc, Enterprise: $5,015

Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, Joseph: $5,250

South Central

Klamath and Lake counties

Group A

Klamath Music, Klamath Falls: $2,000

Group B

PLAYA, Summer Lake: $5,015

South Coast

Douglas, Coos and Curry counties

Group A

Bay Area Community Concert Band, Coos Bay: $1,000

Dolphin Players Inc, Coos Bay: $1,000

Oregon Coast School of Art, Gardiner: $5,000

Redfish Music Festival, Port Orford: $1,000

South Coast Folk Society, Coos Bay: $1,000

Wild Rivers Coast Foundation for Dance, Brookings: $2,500

South Valley/Mid Coast

Lincoln, Benton, Linn and Lane counties

Group A

Applegate Regional Theatre Inc, Veneta: $2,000

Arts and Business Alliance of Eugene, Eugene: $2,500

Coastal Voices, Newport: $1,000

Corvallis Guitar Society, Corvallis: $1,000

DisOrient Asian American Film Festival of Oregon, Eugene: $2,500

Eugene Gay Men's Chorus, Eugene: $2,000

Eugene Springfield Community Orchestra, Eugene: $1,000

Florence Regional Arts Alliance, Florence: $5,000

Free Shakespeare in the Park Theatre Company, Eugene: $1,000

New Zone Gallery, Eugene: $2,500

Oregon Brass Society, Eugene: $1,000

Oregon Coast Youth Symphony Festival Association, Newport: $2,000

Radical Alternative Development, Elmira: $1,000

Santiam Hearts to Arts, Mill City: $1,000

Springfield Community Concert Band, Springfield: $1,000

Generations Arts Academy, Harrisburg: $1,000

Willamette Valley Symphony, Eugene: $1,000

Group B

Radiant Community Arts, Eugene: $5,000

Ballet Fantastique, Eugene: $5,500

Children's Repertory of Oregon Workshops, Florence: $5,000

Community Center for the Performing Arts, Eugene: $6,025

Comunidad y Herencia Cultural, Springfield: $5,000

Corvallis Arts Center Inc, Corvallis: $5,250

Corvallis Fall Festival, Corvallis: $5,000

Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center, Corvallis: $5,000

Corvallis Youth Symphony Association, Corvallis: $5,000

Cottage Theatre, Cottage Grove: $5,025

Eugene Ballet, Eugene: $1,000

Eugene Concert Choir, Eugene: $5,025

Eugene Opera, Eugene: $5,025

Eugene Symphony Association Inc, Eugene: $1,000

#instaballet, Eugene: $5,000

Lane Arts Council, Eugene: $7,025

Lincoln City Cultural Center Inc, Lincoln City: $5,250

Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts, Eugene: $5,000

Maude Kerns Art Center, Eugene: $5,015

Maxtivity, Philomath: $5,000

Music Education & Performing Artists Association, Eugene: $5,000

Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, Otis: $8,000

Orchestra Next, Eugene: $5,000

Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Newport: $7,025

Oregon Contemporary Theatre, Eugene: $5,250

Oregon Mozart Players, Eugene: $5,000

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

University of Oregon - Oregon Folklife Network, Eugene: $5,000

Southern

Josephine and Jackson counties

Group A

Women's Choral Society, Phoenix:  $5,000

Art Presence Inc, Jacksonville: $2,250

Ashland Children’s Theatre, Ashland: $2,000

Ashland New Plays Festival, Ashland: $2,500

Guitar Society of Southern Oregon, Ashland: $1,000

Ashland Flute Circle, Medford: $1,000

Oregon Art on a Mission, Talent: $1,000

Rogue Valley Symphonic Band, Talent: $1,000

Siskiyou Singers Inc, Ashland: $2,000

Ashland Independent Film Festival, Ashland: $5,000

Southern Oregon Guild, Cave Junction: $2,000

Group B

Storytown, Ashland: $5,000

Camelot Theatre Company, Talent: $7,025

Collaborative Theatre Project Inc, Medford: $5,000

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

Oregon Shakespeare Festival Association, Ashland: $18,000

Peter Britt Gardens Arts and Music Festival Association, Medford: $18,000

Rogue Valley Art Association, Medford: $5,000

Southern Oregon Repertory Singers, Ashland: $5,000

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

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

About the Oregon Arts Commission
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. Nested within Business Oregon, the Arts Commission works to support the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state. The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Two people were taken to the hospital after a house fire early Wednesday morning in Tigard that destroyed a home.

Crews were dispatched shortly before 2 a.m. to a reported house fire at 15180 Southwest Sunrise Lane. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire coming from multiple sides of the house.

Two people were injured, including one who suffered burns and another who jumped from a balcony to escape the flames. Both were treated by TVF&R paramedics and transported to the hospital for further care. The three other occupants of the home evacuated unharmed.

Due to the heavy fire conditions, firefighters deployed hose lines to all sides of the structure to attack the fire from the outside. As the fire progressed, portions of the home’s walls and ceilings collapsed, creating additional hazards for crews. Despite heavy fire involvement and challenges with water supply, crews methodically brought the fire under control. With only one fire hydrant available, firefighters carefully managed the water supply while working to bring the fire under control and protect nearby trees and shrubs from catching fire.

The fire destroyed the home, and the family has made alternate living arrangements.

The fire also resulted in the loss of several family pets. One of the family’s dogs alerted the homeowners to the flames but is believed to have died in the fire. A second dog escaped safely. The family’s pet birds are also presumed to have died.

Approximately 25 emergency response apparatus assisted at the scene. TVF&R was assisted by American Medical Response, the Tigard Police Department, Northwest Natural and Portland General Electric.

Vancouver, Wash.—On October 6, a sold-out crowd of more than 700 library lovers filled the Vancouver Hilton to celebrate 35 years of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation (FVRLFoundation). The event raised a record-breaking more than $370,000 for the programs, collections, and spaces that make Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries such welcoming places across Southwest Washington.

“We’re grateful to everyone who gives their time, resources, and voices so that neighbors across our region can find opportunity at their library,” said Jennifer Giltrop, executive director of Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries. “Thank you to the Foundation and all our supporters for believing in our libraries and helping us make more possible.”

Foundation support puts summer reading books into children’s hands, helps families build reading skills together through Reading in Action, and brings neighbors together for Community Reads discussions and author events. Donations also expand access to books, digital resources and the Library of Things, and help fund welcoming spaces such as the new Washougal Community Library, opening 2028.

The evening was a celebration of stories and the people who love them. Guests bid on silent auction items, heard from featured author and illustrator Amy Tan, and lined up afterward to have their books signed and take photos with her.

The Foundation thanks:

• Amy Tan, for sharing her inspiring stories.

• Sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Columbia Credit Union, whose continued support made the evening possible.

• Volunteers, who generously gave their time to make the night special. 

• Event partners, including the Vancouver Hilton, Encore A/V Production, and Simple Pleasures Events, whose expertise brought the evening together.

Those who were not able to attend Authors & Illustrators, but would still like to be part of the FVRL Foundation’s milestone year, can learn more or make a gift at fvrlfoundation.org. 

SALEM, Ore. — The Adaptive Management Program Committee will meet virtually at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20. To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Amphibians questions 1 & 2 into existing research agenda

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ogram@odf.oregon.gov">adaptivemanagementprogram@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee The Adaptive Management Program Committee helps determine if forest practices are meeting their goals to protect natural resources through a science-based and transparent process. The committee sets the research agenda that the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) implements. View more information on the AMPC webpage.

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Granite Bay, California, man pleaded guilty today to cyberstalking his ex‑girlfriend and posting sexually explicit photos of her online.

Jason David Campos, 44, pleaded guilty to stalking and aggravated identity theft.

According to court documents, Campos harassed his ex‑girlfriend from 2009 to 2023 by posting intimate images and personal information about her online without her consent. He created social media and forum accounts using her name and, in some cases, encouraged others to contact or harass her.

In 2021, Campos created an email account using the victim’s maiden name and used it to impersonate her and obtain her confidential legal file. Later that year, he sent intimate images of the victim to her attorney from the same account.

In 2022, Campos sent emails to an account belonging to the victim, attempting to confirm her identity and referencing a minor family member whose name he obtained from her legal file. In 2023, he used an instant messaging app to distribute intimate images of the victim to strangers and directed them to contact an email account he controlled that had previously belonged to the victim.

On April 9, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted Campos on charges of stalking, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Under the plea agreement, Campos pleaded guilty to stalking and aggravated identity theft.

Campos has agreed to pay full restitution to the victim and to her attorney for services provided in response to the fraudulent records request.

Campos faces a maximum of five years in prison for stalking and a mandatory two‑year consecutive sentence for aggravated identity theft, along with fines and supervised release terms.

Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 1, 2027, before a U.S. District Court judge.

“Today’s plea sends a clear message that those who use the internet to harass, intimidate and exploit others will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “We remain committed to protecting victims of online abuse and ensuring offenders face the full consequences of their actions.”

The FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory R. Nyhus is prosecuting the case, with support from Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick.

###

When: Noon – 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15

Where: Project site near the end of Bjur Road in Ridgefield

What: The Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Clark County have invited project partners to celebrate the completion of the $23.5 million East Fork Lewis River Reconnection Project on Thursday, Oct. 15. After two years of construction, crews completed the earth-moving and infrastructure work this week. Students and community volunteers will help replant the project area during the winter months

The project restored three miles of river habitat, improved conditions for salmon and wildlife, reduced flood and erosion risks for nearby homes and businesses, and enhanced recreation opportunities along the river. The project aimed to recreate historic river conditions in a stretch of river that once flowed through seven abandoned gravel mining pits. More information on the project’s benefits, state, local and federal funding is available on the project website.

The event will include a program followed by optional site tours. Program speakers will include State Representative Ed Orcutt (WA LD-20), Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall, and leaders from state and local agencies and organizations.

The project site and event location have uneven, rocky ground. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are required. Potable water and restrooms are not available at this location.

After parking at the end of Bjur Road, attendees will be shuttled to the project site in all-terrain vehicles. Please allow extra time for the ride to the site from the parking area.

Because of the unique features of the site, limited space and access, participating media are strongly encouraged to contact Kaley McLachlan-Burton, Clark County Public Works public information officer, at urton@clark.wa.gov">kaley.mclachlan-burton@clark.wa.gov or 360.946.7584 (call or text; text messages are more likely to go through at the project site on the day of the event).

On October 12, 2026, a little before 4:30 pm, Yamhill Communications Agency was notified of a plane crash at the Chehalem Airpark in rural Newberg. The information relayed to the Sheriff’s Office was that a small ultralight aircraft crashed near the airpark. Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue and Dundee Fire Department responded with Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office. LifeFlight also responded to the crash, landing a helicopter near the Airpark.
 

The sole occupant and pilot of the ultralight had self-extricated from the aircraft before the arrival of emergency responders. Despite extensive efforts, the pilot died from his injuries. He is identified as 58-year-old Trevor Gray-Ingram of Vancouver, WA.  
 

The crash was witnessed and captured on video. That video was reviewed by the Sheriff’s Office and turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A representative from the FAA, as well as one from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), responded to the scene.
 

The information that we have confirmed so far is the ultralight took off from the Chehalem Airpark and had flown around the area before the crash, which took place during a landing attempt. The location of the crash was just off the Airpark property in a privately owned field. There were no other injuries or damage to any structures because of the crash.
 

The Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our condolences to Mr. Gray-Ingram’s family and friends.

SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet virtually on Tuesday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m.

Agenda items the Land Board will consider include:

• Appoint four voting members of the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors to four-year terms: Mike Buffo, Amanda Craig, Jerry Ingersoll, and Mike Wilson.
  The board serves as a key structure in shaping the management of the research forest through public oversight, accountability, and engagement. The appointments are intended to achieve a full complement of relevant experience that is not otherwise represented by current board members.
   
• Approve a permanent easement for an existing bridge on the Willamette River in Lane County.

Meeting Details and Agenda

Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

This meeting of the Land Board will be held virtually only. The full meeting agenda and materials are available on the DSL website. The meeting will be livestreamed to the DSL YouTube channel.

The public may submit written testimony or sign up to provide spoken testimony (by phone or virtually) at the meeting. The meeting agenda indicates whether testimony will be accepted on an item. Advanced sign-up is required, and the deadline is 10 a.m. on Monday, October 19.

If you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact Arin Smith at 503-986-5224 or in.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov">arin.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov at least two working days prior to the meeting.

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

###

www.oregon.gov/dsl

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) worked with the non-profit Trash No Land to make major improvements to the four shooting lanes at Wolf Creek in the Tillamook State Forest. They reopened the lanes this month after being closed for several weeks to complete the work.

“The improvements include increased yardage at the lanes, packed gravel walkways and staging areas, new signage, and fire and other safety improvements,” said Ben Burns, Recreation Facilities Manager for ODF’s State Forests Division. “Thanks to the $30,000 raised by Trash No Lands we were able to get all this work done in just a few weeks.”

One of the most notable improvements was the increased yardage for the lanes.

“The number one ask from target shooters using the lanes was increased yardage,” said Bill Cogley, president and co-founder of Trash No Land.

Lane 1 was 35 yards, and now it’s 120 yards. Lane 2 was 24 yards, and now it’s 70 yards, Lane 3 was 60 yards plus the 16-yard pistol berm, and it’s now 70 yards with the pistol berm slightly longer at 18 yards, Lane 4 was 80 yards and is now 106 yards.

“The 100-yard distance is important because that’s what most hunters and target shooters use to sight in their rifles,” said Cogley. “What people were doing is setting their target way up the backstops in areas with a lot of vegetation to get the 100-yards. During summer that was a big safety concern since those rounds had the potential to start fires.”

Cogley and Burns are confident the new 100-yard plus lanes will greatly reduce that hazard.

“We also did a lot of vegetation management before the contractor started work,” said Burns. “Crews from South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC) cleared out brush and dry vegetation on the sides and back of the lanes to improve fire safety.”

SFFC is jointly run by ODF and the Department of Corrections and does many construction and maintenance projects in Tillamook State Forest. They also provide trained fire crews during wildfire season.

The other big improvement at the lanes was the addition of gravel.

“These lanes often were a muddy mess six-to-eight months out of the year,” said Cogley. “It made it inconvenient and messy to stand and walk out to set up and retrieve targets. So, some folks were kind of lazy and didn’t want to walk through the mud to pick up their used targets and pack out their other trash if it was wet and muddy. Now the lanes have gravel walkways out to set up the targets and gravel behind the Jersey barriers where folks shoot from. Our hope is this will greatly reduce the trash left at the ranges.”

Although the walkways are not ADA compliant, they do provide better wheelchair access.

“One of our board members uses a wheelchair so he was an advocate for making the walkways easy to use for those with mobility issues,” said Cogley. “The compacted gravel makes that possible now.”

The other improvement was better informational signage.

“Increased use of visuals on the signs make them quicker and easier to read and the repaired wood kiosks at each lane should make them more durable,” said Burns

Trash No Land also repainted the concrete Jersey barriers with a camouflage design, scrubbed graffiti off of boulders and picked up trash.

“Our hope is with all these improvements the estimated 25,000 yearly users of the lanes will take better care of them,” said Cogley. “Without a doubt these are the best public land shooting lanes in the entire Northwest which is why you see so many shooters out here.”

Cogley appreciates the 10-year working relationship with ODF.

“Our non-profit became official back in 2017, and we started it because of ODF’s willingness to listen, work and improve Wolf Creek in a collaborative manner.  It’s truly a win-win for everyone.”

For more information about volunteer opportunities, see the Trash No Land website.

For current regulations, updates and closures, visit the Tillamook State Forest target shooting website or contact the ODF Forest Grove office at (503) 357-2191.

For more information about Trash No Land and volunteer opportunities, see the Trash No Land website.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is hosting three open houses to share information on Propositions 12 & 13 that are on the Nov. 3, general election ballot. If approved, the measures will expand and update the current jail facility in downtown Vancouver and fund law and justice staffing.

The open houses are scheduled as follows:

• 6 pm Wednesday, Oct. 21, sixth-floor hearing room, Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.
• 6 pm Monday, Oct. 26, sixth-floor hearing room, Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.
• 6 pm Oct. 27, Battle Ground Community Center, Moulton Falls Room, 912 Main St.

Jail Services and representatives from the Sheriff’s Office will present information regarding the propositions and answer questions from attendees.

Jail tours
Attendees of the Oct. 21, and Oct. 26, open houses will have an opportunity to tour the Clark County Jail. Tour capacity is limited to no more than 20 people, and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Two tours will be offered on each of those evenings. Tours will begin immediately after the open house presentation and Q&A session.

Anyone wishing to take the jail tour must complete a Jail Clearance Application and Agreement and bring it to the open house.

Jail tours are not offered at the open house in Battle Ground.

Proposition 12

Bond Proposition 12 would allow Clark County to:

• Remodel current jail to ensure safety of those housed in the jail as well as those who work in the jail.
• Connect incarcerated people to treatment and re-entry services.
• Add/expand capital infrastructure to increase the beds available in the jail.
• Provide new headquarters for the Sheriff’s Office; which is currently located in the basement of the jail.
• Add courtrooms in the jail.

The cost of Proposition 12 is $366 million. Based on the median home value of $550,000, the estimated cost would be approximately $86 per year or $7.17 per month.

Proposition 13

Proposition 13 is a levy lid lift and will pay for law and justice staffing including, but not limited to:

• Employees (e.g. corrections officers, professional support staff, medical staff, etc.) to staff and operate the expanded jail.
• Additional Sheriff’s Office employees (e.g. deputies, professional support staff, etc.).
• Law and justice impacts for additional Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys, court staff, Deputy Clerks, public defense attorneys, etc.
• Four Prosecuting Attorney staff currently funded by one-time grant funding.
• Other law and justice staff.

The cost of Proposition 13 is $51.4 million which will fund jail staffing for the expanded jail, Sheriff’s Office staffing and other law and justice impacts. Based on the median home value of $550,000, the estimated cost would be approximately $242 per year or $20.17 per month.

Find more information at clark.wa.gov/prop12and13.

SALEM, Ore. –(October 13, 2026)  Stay Alive Vets (SAV) will bring veterans, families, and community supporters together on Veterans Day for the 6th Annual Stay Alive Vets Gala, an evening dedicated to honoring those who have served while raising awareness and support for efforts to prevent veteran suicide.
 

The gala will be held Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St. SE in Salem. The evening will feature dinner, a keynote address, veteran recognition, and live music from The Denominators.
 

This year’s keynote speaker is Sergeant Matthew W. Zedwick, a U.S. Army veteran who was awarded the Silver Star for acts of gallantry during combat operations in Iraq.
 

“Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served, but honoring our veterans also means being there for them when they come home and making sure they know they are not alone,” said Angela Plowhead, Air Force veteran and board president of Stay Alive Vets. “Our gala brings people together to celebrate the strength and sacrifice of our veteran community while supporting programs that provide hope, connection and help when it is needed most.”
 

The sixth annual gala will also provide an opportunity for guests to learn more about the programs Stay Alive Vets supports to address veteran suicide in Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest.
 

“Having Matthew Zedwick join us on Veterans Day makes this year’s event especially meaningful,” Plowhead said. “His story reflects courage, service and an extraordinary commitment to others. That same spirit of looking out for one another is at the heart of our work. We want veterans and their families to know that they have a community standing beside them.”

Registration and Tickets

• Tickets: $60/person or host a table of 10 for $600. Purchase here.

• Veteran Tickets: Veterans and families can request their complimentary tickets on VetTix.

• Sponsorship Opportunities:   Buy Sponsorships — Stay Alive Vets: SAV Annual 

• The group is also accepting silent and oral auction items. Contact angela@stayalivevets.org to donate.

Community members are invited to dress up, dine and celebrate while supporting and honoring Oregon’s veteran community on Veterans Day. Additional event information is available at Home | Stay Alive Vets.
 

About Stay Alive Vets: Stay Alive Veterans (SAV) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting the veteran community by addressing the pressing issue of veteran suicide. Operated by veterans for veterans, SAV is uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the complex challenges that veterans face after their service. The organization is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that every veteran has access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives after their military careers.

October 13, 2026

Media Contact: Kristen Lambert, isten.Lambert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Kristen.Lambert@oha.oregon.gov

Medicaid Advisory Committee Accepting Applications

External - New Applicants

• New applicants please apply externally HERE
  • You will be instructed to create a Workday profile using an email and password
  • Sign in, search for Medicaid Advisory Committee, and select the Apply button
• Detailed guidance on how to apply externally can be found - HERE

Internal – New Applicants

Applicants who are already board members applying for reappointment or would like to apply for another board, and/or current state workers, please apply internally:

• Log into Workday – HERE
  • On the homepage, click on Menu and then select
  • Click on Internal – Find
  • Search for Medicaid Advisory Committee and select the Apply
• Detailed guidance on how to apply internally can also be found – HERE

Only complete applications will be considered. A complete application consists of: contact information, short personal bio, responses to application questions, demographic information, uploaded resume, background check questions, voluntary disclosures, and additional tasks (prompted by Workday).

Applicants are subject to a background check, and additional vetting may apply for some board positions. Notifying us about something in your past does not necessarily mean that you cannot or will not be appointed; but, it is important that you disclose this information in the beginning of the process. Please ensure your fiscal responsibilities are in order when applying. Non-compliant issues may delay or jeopardize your potential appointment.

Contact: If you have questions, please contact Sarah Wetherson (mac.info@odhsoha.oregon.gov, 503-793-1920).

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer free of charge. Contact MAC.Info@odhsoha.oregon.gov or 971-304-9642. We accept all relay calls. 

###

The Beaverton Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a fugitive wanted in connection with a 2022 child sexual abuse investigation in Beaverton. The suspect is also wanted in multiple states on additional child sexual abuse-related charges.

Erick A. De Leon, also known as Alex Rosado Lopez, is wanted on an active felony arrest warrant stemming from a 2022 Beaverton Police Department investigation involving the alleged sexual abuse of a 12-year-old child. Following the investigation, De Leon was indicted in 2022 on the following charges:

• Two counts of Attempted Rape in the First Degree
• Two counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree

De Leon has remained wanted on the outstanding felony warrant.

In addition to the charges in Oregon, De Leon is wanted by authorities in Wisconsin in connection with child sexual abuse material offenses and in Georgia on additional child sexual abuse-related charges.

The U.S. Marshals Service is coordinating efforts to locate and apprehend De Leon and announced a reward in late September for information leading to his arrest.

The Beaverton Police Department is working to bring attention to this case and encourages anyone with information regarding De Leon’s whereabouts to contact law enforcement.

Anyone who sees De Leon should avoid approaching him and immediately contact law enforcement. Individuals with information regarding his whereabouts are encouraged to contact the U.S. Marshals Service or the Beaverton Police Department.

De Leon may be using multiple names, including Alex Rosado Lopez.

The Beaverton Police Department remains committed to protecting vulnerable members of our community and holding individuals accused of crimes against children accountable. ###

John Day - The Oregon Heritage Commission will have tours of local heritage preservation efforts in John Day on Oct. 25 and will meet for the business meeting on Oct. 26 at 9am at the Grant County Regional Airport and online via zoom.
 

The business meeting agenda includes a Commission discussion on the museum grant and heritage grant program, information on an update to the Cost of Collections Care report, a presentation on the Chinese Diaspora Project, an overview of the Oregon Covered Bridges Needs Assessment Report, and more.

This meeting is open to the public and there is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting for public comment. Public comment can be made online or by written submission. For online attendance, registration is required. To view the full agenda, register for the virtual meeting, or learn more about public comment options, visit here.
 

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.
 

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

###

On October 12, 2026, at approximately 8:51 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a minor vehicle-pedestrian collision near the 19300 block of NE Allworth Road in Battle Ground.

The investigation determined that a school bus had stopped to pick up an elementary school student. As the student began crossing the road, a sedan traveling in the opposite direction slowed but did not stop. The front passenger-side corner of the sedan hit the child, causing the child to fall to the ground. The driver immediately stopped and cooperated with the investigation. The child reportedly sustained minor injuries.

The sedan driver was cited for passing a stopped school bus.

CCSO reminds drivers that school is back in session, and young students are getting on and off school buses throughout our neighborhoods. Drivers must stop for school buses when required by law. Failing to stop can result in a fine of more than $400.

Please slow down, stay alert, and watch for children near school buses and bus stops.

SALEM, Ore. (Oct. 12, 2026) – Maps Credit Union and the Maps Community Foundation are accepting applications for the 2026–27 Teacher Grant Program, which will award a total of $50,000 to support projects benefiting students and school communities.

Eligible K–12 teachers may apply for $1,000 grants to help bring educational projects to life. Funding may be used for classroom projects, school-wide initiatives, field trips and educational after-school clubs.

“Maps was founded by teachers, so supporting educators remains deeply connected to who we are,” said Executive Director Kim Hanson of the Maps Community Foundation. “Teachers see possibilities for their students every day, and sometimes a relatively small investment is all it takes to turn a great idea into a meaningful learning experience. These grants are our way of helping educators bring those ideas to life and create opportunities that can make a real difference for students.”

The program is open to Maps members who teach at K–12 public or private schools in Marion or Polk counties or in Wilsonville, Oregon City, Astoria or Seaside.

Teachers can apply by submitting a short written application and a photo describing how the grant would be used, the number of students who would benefit, the total cost of the project, and why support from Maps is needed.

Applications are open now through October 31, 2026. Selected recipients will be announced later this fall.

For more information and to apply, visit Teacher Grants on the Community Giving page at mapscu.com.
 

The Maps Community Foundation is the philanthropic giving arm of Maps Credit Union, investing in education, economic empowerment and vibrant communities. Its mission is to enrich the lives of members and the community through investments in these areas. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations, schools, teachers and students through grants, sponsorships, scholarships, financial education programs and community partnerships. Maps invests more than $500,000 annually in community initiatives through the Foundation.

About Maps Credit Union

Maps Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to helping people and communities thrive. Serving Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley since 1935, Maps Credit Union was founded by teachers and built on a belief in education, service, and community. Today, as a community-chartered credit union, anyone who lives, works, or learns in the Willamette Valley Basin is eligible to join Maps. With more than 85,000 members and 14 branches, Maps offers banking that puts people first. Through our mission, Every Member Benefits, Maps focuses on providing affordable loans, competitive savings options, and personalized financial solutions. And, as a proud partner in local schools, nonprofits, and neighborhoods, Maps gives back through financial literacy programs, charitable giving, and hands-on community involvement. For more on our community impact, visit mapscu.com or contact us at 503.588.0181. Maps Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS #462882.

CORRECTION TO EVENT LOCATION

Here is the correct location:

The Vic Bar + Kitchen (at the Victory Club)
5325 N Verrado Way
Buckeye, AZ 85396

(623) 388-3000

Thursday, October 22, 2026
12:00 to 2:30 PM

THE ADDRESS ON GOLF DRIVE IS INCORRECT.

Hello everyone,
 

Just a friendly reminder that we are now only two months out from the Retired Police Luncheon!

Join us for good food, great company, and camaraderie as we celebrate our retired members and the legacy of service. The event includes a buffet and beverages, at $40 per person.

Please RSVP as soon as possible so we can finalize our headcount.

Payment options:
- Venmo: @ Deanna Whattam
- Check: mail to 8103 E Del Rubi Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

We look forward to seeing you there!

Save the date

October 22, 2026

Arizona Retirees Luncheon

See flyer for details

 Estacada Third Graders Post Largest Reading Gain Among Mid-Size and Large Districts in Oregon

Third-grade reading proficiency jumps nearly 15 points to 52%, more than 10 points above the state average

Estacada School District third graders posted the largest one-year reading gain of any mid-size or large district in Oregon, according to 2025-26 state assessment results released by the Oregon Department of Education on September 24th. The share of Estacada third graders meeting or exceeding state standards in English Language Arts rose from 37.2% to 52.0%, a gain of 14.8 points. Statewide, third-grade reading proficiency rose 1.2 points to 41.5%. Among the 88 Oregon districts with 75 or more third graders tested, Estacada's gain ranked first. The progress extends beyond third grade. Estacada's fourth- and fifth-grade students also posted reading proficiency rates above the state average, demonstrating encouraging results across multiple elementary grade levels.

“Reading by the end of third grade is one of the strongest predictors of a student's future success," said Dr. Ryan Carpenter, superintendent of Estacada School District. "These results reflect the daily work of our teachers and the support of our families. We're proud of our students, and we're focused on building on this momentum in every grade."

District leaders credit the gains to an early literacy plan grounded in the science of reading, the research on how children learn to read. Every K-2 teacher in the district was trained in the approach. The plan changed how reading is taught, building a system designed to reach every student. All students learn from a knowledge-building curriculum that grows their vocabulary and background knowledge alongside core reading skills. Through tiered instruction, students who need more support get it, and those who fall behind receive high-dosage tutoring.

“Our team has been intentional about following the science of reading in every classroom, every day," said Jennifer Behrman, Estacada’s Director of Teaching and Learning.  "Our teachers and staff have worked hard to strengthen literacy instruction, with support from literacy experts who observe lessons and provide feedback through our partnership with Stand for Children. REID Days and high dosage tutoring give students extra time for targeted learning. Seeing our third graders rise almost 15 points in one year shows what's possible."

The results continue a broader trend of academic growth in the district. Estacada's overall math proficiency rose 6.5 points to 31.7%, its highest level in state data going back to 2017-18. Science proficiency reached 36.6%, six points above the state average.

Full 2025-26 assessment results are available on the Oregon Department of Education website.

Members of the media are invited to attend a joint structural collapse training exercise on Thursday, October 15, at Camp Rilea, where Clackamas Fire's Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Task Force will train alongside the Oregon National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

The training will simulate a large-scale structural collapse following a tsunami that destroyed a coastal town with multiple people trapped in the rubble. Responders will work together to search the collapsed structures, locate and rescue victims, provide medical care, and coordinate their evacuation for further treatment.

The exercise will give the participating agencies an opportunity to practice working together during a complex disaster, such as an earthquake or post tsunami, where multiple resources are needed. Military resources will supplement Clackamas Fire’s USAR Task Force during the exercise, giving responders the opportunity to practice the coordination that would be needed during a major disaster that stretches beyond the resources of a single agency.

The exercise will also include simulated patient transport by helicopter, allowing responders to practice moving critically injured survivors from the scene to additional medical care.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: 
• Video/photo opportunities of live helicopter hoist operations and search and rescue operations
• Interviews available with:

• U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria

• Oregon National Guard

• Clackamas Fire Urban Search and Rescue Task Force

DATE: Thursday, October 15

TIME: Media arrival 9:30 am

LOCATION: Camp Rilea

Members of the media interested in attending are asked to RSVP in advance by emailing cfdpio@clackamasfire.com  to receive location and parking information.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is conducting its 2026 State Level Exercise, Getting Through Lahar’d Times, this week, October 13–16, bringing together state agencies, counties, Tribes, and community partners to test Oregon’s ability to recover from a major volcanic eruption.

Unlike most state-level exercises—which traditionally emphasize short-term disaster response—this year’s exercise focuses on long-term recovery, offering Oregon a rare opportunity to test its newly adopted Oregon Disaster Recovery Base Plan. Few states have the chance to meaningfully exercise recovery operations at this scale, making Getting Through Lahar’d Times an exceptional milestone for statewide preparedness.

This exercise is also the first in Oregon to integrate community members as special observers and evaluators, including volunteers, representatives from organizations active in disasters, and individuals connected with under resourced communities. Their involvement reflects OEM’s commitment to building a Ready and Resilient Oregon through whole community participation.

“I want to thank our community advising partners serving as special evaluators,” OEM Director Erin McMahon, said. “Your perspectives play a vital role in helping us understand how well the State Recovery Plan supports and includes the whole community. Your feedback will help us improve Oregon’s recovery strategies and make them stronger and more equitable. This is a first for Oregon and is emblematic of OEM's vision of a Ready and Resilient Oregon. Thank you especially to the leadership of Natasha Fox, Robert Quinn, and Quinn Butler, who worked toward a creative solution to develop this partnership.”

A Statewide Exercise Built for Whole Community Engagement

As Oregon observes International Emergency Manager Awareness Month, agencies and partners statewide are preparing to practice the transition from emergency response to long-term recovery. Using a realistic volcanic eruption scenario, participants will:

• Conduct damage assessments
• Transition from response to recovery operations
• Set statewide recovery objectives
• Develop a State Recovery Action Plan
• Coordinate resource allocation under the Oregon Disaster Recovery Base Plan

Local, Tribal, and community partners are essential to the exercise’s success, bringing cultural context, local operational realities, and community specific needs into the planning environment.

“The value of these exercises is that they let us practice the hardest days of a disaster without the consequences of an actual event," Robert Quinn, OEM exercise officer, said. “We learn what works, what needs strengthening, and how we can better support communities when the real thing happens.”

Building on Lessons Learned

Oregon has a long history of using state level exercises to prepare for large and complex disasters.

• Cascadia Rising 2016 examined the first 72 hours after a simulated Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake.
• IronOR24 expanded the play into days four through seven, helping responders practice sustained operations and refine their transition into recovery.

The 2026 exercise now advances this progression by exercising recovery coordination—a phase rarely tested in statewide training.

“Every exercise is an investment in Oregon’s resilience,” McMahon said. “Our communities expect us to be prepared, and these statewide efforts help us strengthen the systems and relationships we rely on in a disaster.”

PF&R responds to 2^nd alarm apartment fire in NE PDX

At 10:44 AM Portland Fire responded to a possible apartment fire in the Cully Neighborhood of NE Portland. The closest responding fire engine noted over the radio there was a visible header or smoke column indicating an active working fire.

Crews arrived to thick dark smoke pushing out of the backside of a 2-story four-plex apartment building and directed an offensive fire attack with crews taking hose lines to the interior. The first arriving truck was assigned search and rescue and threw ladders to the second story windows to gain access to the elevated floor of the complex affected in the incident.

A second chief on scene reported heavy fire visible from the backside of the structure that was impinging on an adjacent apartment building which led to the command chief requesting a second alarm assignment adding another 24 firefighters to the incident placing over 50 members of PF&R assigned to this incident. The second alarm response provides for an adequate workforce on scene should the fire extend to an additional structure.

The fire was quickly extinguished with only a single engine company from the second alarm assigned any work on the incident. There were no reports of any injuries. Ten occupants will be displaced because of the fire with Red Cross assisting in this effort. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

###

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet for a planning retreat on Oct. 26 through 28. The retreat’s three-day itinerary will include an executive session, field tour and public meetings. The planning retreat offers the board and department leadership the opportunity to connect on their shared strategic plan.

The public can attend in-person at the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites, 2525 Ashland Street, Ashland or observe via a livestream on the department’s YouTube page.

During this informal retreat, board members will focus on:

• Board member and executive team introductions
• Agency overview
• Vision for Oregon’s Forests
• Executive Session
• Executive Order 25-26 Climate Resilience Work Plan
• Board Work Plans
• Board discussion

View the agenda and retreat details.

The Executive Session will be closed to the public, except for members of the press who are permitted to attend by law. This Executive Session is held pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection as well as pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with legal counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed.

This meeting will not have live public testimony, but 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 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include 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. Learn more about the board.

OREGON CITY AND MILWAUKIE – Clackamas Community College will be the site of two free flu clinics and community wellness fairs on Oct. 29 and Nov. 4, offering community members flu shots, blood pressure checks and help connecting with health care resources. Both events are open to the public, and no insurance is required.

The events are a partnership between Clackamas Free Clinic, CCC’s Health Sciences and Neighborhood Health Center.

CCC nursing students will administer flu shots and provide blood pressure checks. Neighborhood Health Center will help attendees enroll in the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), sign up for services and navigate care options. Clackamas Free Clinic will provide information about its free primary care, vision, behavioral health and other services, answer questions about eligibility, and help uninsured and underinsured adults connect with health services, provide blood pressure screenings and distribute free health and wellness items to attendees.

“As flu season approaches, we want to make it easy for community members to get a flu shot, regardless of whether they have insurance,” Lisa Steenson, executive director of Clackamas Free Clinic, said. “These events are also an opportunity to ask questions, connect with local health resources and get support for staying healthy.”

The clinics and wellness fairs will take place:

• Thursday, Oct. 29, noon to 4 p.m., at CCC’s Harmony campus, 7738 SE Harmony Road, Milwaukie.
• Wednesday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Wacheno Welcome Center on CCC’s Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

For more information, call 503-722-4400 or email info@clackamasvim.org.

-30-

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
October 12, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER AND EDWARD JONES ANNOUNCE JON GIROD AS 2026 FIRST CITIZEN AWARD HONOREE

Quail Homes owner and Careers in Construction founder recognized for his lasting contributions to housing, workforce development, and the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with Edward Jones, is proud to announce Jon Girod, owner of Quail Homes and founder of Careers in Construction, as the recipient of the 2026 Clark County First Citizen Award. The honor recognizes Girod’s decades of professional leadership, civic engagement, and commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen Southwest Washington.

A regional tradition dating back to 1939, the First Citizen Award celebrates individuals whose professional achievements, volunteerism, philanthropy, and dedication to public service have made a lasting difference in their communities. Girod’s career reflects that spirit, combining a longstanding contribution to the region’s housing industry with a commitment to helping young people build successful futures through careers in the skilled trades.

“Jon’s story is a powerful example of what it means to put community first,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “He has built a successful career in our region’s housing industry, but he has also recognized a broader need and taken action to address it. By connecting students with opportunities in the skilled trades, Jon is helping strengthen our workforce, open doors for the next generation, and create benefits that will extend well beyond his own lifetime. That commitment to turning success into opportunity for others is at the heart of the First Citizen Award.”

Since 1989, Girod has built more than 3,000 homes and developed more than 2,000 lots, with an emphasis on housing designed for empty nesters and multigenerational living. As owner of Quail Homes and a past president of the Building Industry Association, he has helped shape the region’s residential construction industry. But his impact extends well beyond the homes he has built.

Recognizing the growing need for skilled tradespeople and the importance of introducing students to career opportunities beyond traditional four-year college pathways, Girod founded Careers in Construction, a nonprofit organization that establishes Skilled Trade Centers on high school campuses. Through industry-relevant curriculum, hands-on learning, and connections with employers, the program helps students explore and prepare for careers in construction and other skilled trades.

Girod has worked alongside educators, school districts, industry leaders, elected officials, and community organizations to expand career and technical education (CTE) and strengthen connections between education and the workforce. His advocacy emphasizes that students deserve access to multiple pathways to success, including careers that offer family-wage opportunities, professional growth, and long-term stability.

For Girod, the recognition is not a solo achievement. He credits the many people who have helped advance his work and bring his vision to life.

“I am honored by this award, but a lot of great people are helping me do this. So it’s a WE thing,” Girod said.

The First Citizen Award is presented by Edward Jones, whose partnership supports the Chamber’s recognition of individuals making a lasting difference in the community.

“The First Citizen Award represents leadership, courage, action, and results. These are core values not only of our community’s most impactful leaders, but also values we bring to the table on behalf of our clients. We truly value leadership and work to model it with the families we serve,” said Andy Nygard, Edward Jones financial advisor.

Girod will be formally recognized during the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s Business & Leadership Awards, presented by Riverview Bank, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at The Heathman Lodge in Vancouver, Washington. Community members are invited to attend and celebrate Girod alongside the region’s outstanding business and community leaders.

Tickets and event information are available at VancouverUSA.com/Business-Leadership-Awards.

The Greater Vancouver Chamber’s Business & Leadership Awards are made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor Riverview Bank, along with Edward Jones, BBSI, Maddox Industrial Transformer, Washington Trust Bank, WSU Vancouver, Alaska Airlines, The Columbian, MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions, and Casey Evans Media.

To learn more about the First Citizen Award and explore past honorees, visit VancouverUSA.com/First-Citizen-Award-Honorees.

###

About the First Citizen Award

Since 1939, the annual First Citizen Award has been presented to a Clark County resident who models the attributes of good citizenship through leadership, action, civic pride, and cultivates inclusive civic engagement practices. These are individuals who, through their business, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts, improve the lives of those in the community by serving first. For more information about the First Citizens through the years, visit:  https://www.vancouverusa.com/first-citizen-award-honorees. 

About the Business & Leadership Awards

Introduced in 2012, the Business & Leadership Awards honor outstanding businesses and individuals who exemplify the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s motto of "Moving Business Forward." For over a decade, the southwest Washington business community has celebrated excellence and leadership through these prestigious awards. 

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

_____________________________

Media Assets: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1yAZ-c8BeboUqIzB_w4R1c_hdJh3wDc0F?usp=sharing

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council seeks volunteers to fill up to five seats on the fifteen-member Railroad Advisory Board. The board advises the county on matters relating to the county-owned Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

Applicants with railroad or railroad-related experience, or business experience using freight-rail service, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Board members serve three-year terms. Terms are anticipated to begin after Jan. 1, 2027.

To apply, volunteers should submit a letter of interest and/or resume to ailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov">PWRailAdvisoryBoard@clark.wa.gov or by mail to 4700 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA, 98665. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.

More information about the railroad and advisory board is available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/railroad-advisory-board.

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.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging’s charge is to provide leadership in addressing the special needs of the aging population and to manage and assist with the implementation of the county’s Aging Readiness Plan.

Commission members welcome emergency management professionals from around the county to discuss winter preparedness at their October meeting. The meeting will be at 4:30 pm Monday, Oct. 19, 2026.

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

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

Bend Fire & Rescue will open its doors to the community from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the North Fire Station, 63377 NE Jamison St., in celebration of Fire Prevention Month.

The free, family-friendly event will feature hands-on activities, safety demonstrations and opportunities to meet local first responders. Activities include:

• Climbing aboard a fire engine and ambulance and spraying a fire hose.
• Watching Airlink and Life Flight helicopters land and exploring the aircraft.
• Viewing a live fire demonstration.
• Painting a City of Bend snowplow and making family-friendly crafts.
• Enjoying free ice cream and other giveaways.

More information, including a schedule of events, is available at https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/calendar/bend-fire-rescue-open-house/

October is Fire Prevention Month, and this year's theme is "Charge Into Fire Safety." The campaign focuses on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries, which power many everyday devices, including e-bikes, power tools, cell phones and tablets. Improper charging, use or disposal of lithium-ion batteries can increase the risk of fire. Residents are encouraged to purchase listed products, follow manufacturer charging instructions and recycle or dispose of batteries properly.

Community members can learn more about lithium-ion battery safety at the open house or by visiting the National Fire Protection Association website.

Bend Fire & Rescue abrirá sus puertas a la comunidad de 10 a. m. a 1 p. m. Sábado, 17 de octubre, en la estación de bomberos del norte, situada en el 63377 de la calle NE Jamison, con motivo de la celebración del Mes de la Prevención de Incendios.

Este evento gratuito y apto para toda la familia contará con actividades prácticas, demostraciones de seguridad y la oportunidad de conocer a los servicios de emergencia locales. Las actividades incluirán:

• La oportunidad de subirse a un camión de bomberos y a una ambulancia y usar una manguera contra incendios.
• Observa el aterrizaje de los helicópteros de Airlink y Life Flight y explora las aeronaves.
• Observar una demostración con fuego real.
• Pintar una máquina quitanieves de la ciudad de Bend y hacer manualidades para toda la familia.
• Disfrutando de helado gratis y otros obsequios.

Habrá más información, incluyendo un calendario de actividades, disponible en https://bendoregon.gov/departments/public-safety/fire-rescue/calendar/bend-fire-rescue-open-house/jornada-de-puertas-abiertas-de-bend-fire-rescue/

Octubre es el Mes de la Prevención de Incendios, y el lema de este año es “Adelante con la seguridad contra incendios”. La campaña se centra en el uso seguro de las baterías de iones de litio, que alimentan muchos dispositivos de uso cotidiano, como las bicicletas eléctricas, las herramientas eléctricas, los teléfonos móviles y las tabletas. La carga, el uso o la eliminación inadecuados de las baterías de iones de litio pueden aumentar el riesgo de incendio. Se recomienda a los vecinos que adquieran los productos indicados, sigan las instrucciones de carga del fabricante y reciclen o desechen las pilas de forma adecuada.

Los miembros de la comunidad pueden obtener más información sobre la seguridad de las baterías de iones de litio en la jornada de puertas abiertas o visitando la página web de la Asociación Nacional de Protección contra Incendios.

For immediate release

October 12, 2026

Contact Chris Nelson (503) 551-0531

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon is working to reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health, and protect communities by investing $10 million in projects that are part of the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) landscape resiliency approach. 

The current grant awards will fund joint projects in Douglas, Grant, Jackson, and Josephine counties. The projects will reduce hazardous fuels, restore fire-adapted landscapes, and improve landscape resilience across more than 6,400 acres. 

Forest Resources Division Chief Josh Barnard said, “with more than 2 million acres burned by wildfires in Oregon so far in 2026, this work has become more important than ever. Every responsibly managed acre helps reduce wildfire risk around communities and improves the long-term health of Oregon’s forests and rangelands.” 

The ODF landscape resiliency effort is Oregon’s primary all-lands investment hub to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires before fires even start. This approach supports efforts across public, private, and Tribal lands that are part of Oregon’s 20-year landscape resiliency strategy. The goal is to coordinate and complete landscape-scale work that helps forests and protects communities. 

This year’s investments continue Oregon’s commitment to put wildfire risk reduction and landscape resiliency dollars to work where it matters most – on the ground. 

“This year’s projects demonstrate what can get done when local communities, landowners, Tribes, federal agencies and partners work toward shared goals – protecting our communities and stewarding natural resources,” said Barnard. 

ODF is focusing on larger forest resiliency by reducing tree density in some areas and planting better adapted trees in others. 

“ODF is improving methods to enhance landscape resiliency to better protect our forests from large disturbance events,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl. “We are building tools to better diagnose problems and offering strategies and resources to landowners to help them do adaptive management. This includes metrics to help identify site and climate conditions and where stress is predicted. These tools and identification processes are a part of how we prepare and recover from stress from heat and droughts, insect pests and diseases, and wildfires.”

The projects funded in this round include: 

• Douglas County

ODF will invest $1.29 million through the Little River Landscape Resiliency Project. This project will create strategic fuel breaks along Lane Mountain, the Little River drainage and Cavitt Creek. These breaks will improve firefighter access and reduce wildfire intensity in high-risk areas. 

• Josephine and Jackson counties

The two southern Oregon counties will see $4.85 million invested through the Hotshot Rx Connect project. This project will thin forest stands and use prescribed fire across almost 2,700 acres. The work will reduce hazardous fuels, restore forest health, and improve wildfire response access. 

• Grant County

ODF is investing $3.46 million into the John Day Landscape Resiliency Project. The work will include thinning forests, removing junipers that compete with more valuable timber trees for water, and planning ongoing wildfire risk reduction across 3,400 acres. The plan will reduce wildfire risk and improve landscape resilience. One example is a 57-acre prescribed burn of thinned areas on private ponderosa pine forest near Monument. That burn was carried out by the Prescribed Burn Association, a collaboration that included OSU, ODF, Soil and Water Conservation Service, and local landowners.

This year’s investment lays the groundwork for future success. The funds will help develop new landscape plans that align priorities among the USDA Forest Stewardship Program, Natural Resources Conservation Service, ODF, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. These plans pinpoint priority landscapes, improve coordination, and guide investments. 

ODF continues to strengthen this all-lands investment approach with ongoing funding and better coordination between local ODF districts, other public agencies, tribes, private landowners and local communities to identify and complete the highest-priority projects. 

Beyond funding individual treatments, ODF bridges state and federal programs through collaborative planning, leveraging investments, and coordinating cross-boundary work to produce larger, more meaningful impacts. 

An example of this coordinated work is the Central Oregon Shared Stewardship Project. Partners in the project, including ODF and multiple soil and water conservation districts among others, thinned ponderosa pine forest and cut brush along roadsides near Black Butte Ranch.  After the work was complete, this summer the 27,491-acre Akawa Butte Fire came through, burning part of the treated area.

“Because of the work done in this area, firefighters were able to fight the fire from safer places along roads where there was less fuel,” said ODF’s State Initiatives Grant Coordinator Jenna Nelson. “It also allowed fire fighters to immediately backburn the treated land without having to prepare it first, saving precious time. The back burns consumed fuel ahead of the advancing fire front, stopping it in those areas. Because treated areas burned with lower intensity, they will also have a better chance at recovering, with a high percentage of trees surviving.”

Landowners and partners interested in participating in future landscape resiliency projects are encouraged to contact their local ODF office. 

Previous Landscape Resiliency Program projects can be viewed at Oregon Department of Forestry : Landscape Resiliency Program : State of Oregon. 

                                                                                          # # # 

Come for some wild and crazy fun!  On Saturday, October 17th, the Oregon Department of Forestry, State Forests Trust of Oregon, and the Westside Trail Federation will host the grand opening of a new CXT vault-style toilet in the Tillamook State Forest. The event is being held in conjunction with the Frienduro MTB event, an event where mountain bike riders come in crazy costumes, riding the Fear and Loaming Trail. This is the sixth annual running of the Frienduro event.  The toilet will be wrapped in toilet paper.  Frienduro contestants in wild costumes will be on hand for the "ribbon cutting."  This will be a fun and campy event.  Please join us!  Toilet grand-opening and ribbon cutting at 8 am at the Drift Creek Trailhead in the Tillamook State Forest:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/vTzR76VvRyFSxyGm7  The event will occur raiin or shine!  Beautiful fall color. MTB riders in wild costumes. A TP-wrapped vault toilet. Lots of humour and fun! And treats will be served!  Frienduro event follows immediately after, starting at 9am. 

Lebanon, Oregon

Lebanon Firefighters battled a blaze in the late morning of Sunday, October 11, 2026. The Linn County dispatch center was notified at 10:36 of the structure fire in the 300 block of E. Maple with occupants still inside. The Battalion Chief arrived and found an attached garage with heavy fire from the front doors, extending into the house with a neighboring home exposed to flames. When the incident commander began to size up the situation, he met the occupants coming from the front door trying to wrangle their small dogs. Firefighters began a quick exterior attack on the garage while crews from a Lebanon fire/medic were instructed to enter the burning home and begin a search for any other occupants. Firefighters then quickly gained access to the roof with ladders of the burning house, cutting a hole to let heat and deadly smoke and gases escape the structure making it easier for firefighters to see and giving better air quality for any other potential occupants of the house in which there were none. During this operation the IC asked for a 2^nd alarm for additional firefighters and equipment from surrounding fire departments while other Lebanon crews were busy extinguishing the fire in the garage and checking the inside of the neighboring structure for any extension of fire into its attic space. No injuries were reported by firefighters, and the two occupants were evaluated at the scene. Unfortunately, one of the family’s dogs didn’t escape and was later found and recovered by firefighters. The fire is currently under investigation by Lebanon’s investigation team.

Lebanon Fire District would like to thank Albany Fire Department, Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District, Lebanon Police Department and Pacific Power for responding to the fire on E. Maple, while Scio Fire District and an Albany Fire Department medic unit covered additional 911 calls in the district.

The district would also like to remind residents of the importance of working smoke alarms and that with colder weather approaching to follow safe home-heating instructions. Space heaters should be used with care, plugged directly into an outlet, and not permitted to remain on when residents are sleeping or away. Be Safe!

On October 10th, 2026 at approximately 8:25am deputies assigned to the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) Patrol Unit were dispatched to the area of Chinook Landing in the City of Fairview to the report of a single vehicle crash. When deputies arrived at the scene they located a deceased male.

The MCSO Vehicular Crimes Team responded to the scene to continue the investigation. Their initial investigation determined the vehicle left the roadway, crashing into the embankment near the entrance to Chinook Landing and that alcohol was a contributing factor.  The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available for release at this time.

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham police responded to a shooting at a bar in the 1700 block of NW Fairview Dr just before 11 p.m. Saturday.  One person was deceased at the scene and two additional victims were transported to local hospitals.

The East County Major Crimes Team is leading the investigation.  Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to call the GPD tip line at 503-618-2719 or toll-free at 1-888-989-3505.

There is no ongoing threat to the community.  No additional information is available at this time.  

Just before 5 p.m. today, Lebanon Fire District responded to a fire involving a grove of trees in the 31000 block of Sandridge Drive near Glaser Road after an unattended agricultural burn pile spread beyond its intended area.

Fire crews arrived on scene within seven minutes of the call and worked quickly to stop the forward movement of the fire, which was contained in 28 minutes. Approximately 1.5 acres burned as a result of the incident.

Lebanon Fire District responded with 15 personnel to contain the fire and prevent further spread. Sandridge Drive was closed for approximately two hours while emergency crews worked to bring the incident under control.

The Linn County Fire Defense Board has not reopened outdoor burning. This incident serves as a clear reminder that fire danger remains a significant threat, even in the fall. Unattended burn piles can quickly spread and threaten surrounding vegetation, property, and public safety.

Residents are reminded to follow all current burn restrictions and avoid any unauthorized burning. Do not assume conditions are safe for burning simply because temperatures have cooled or rain has occurred.

Please help keep our community safe by following current fire restrictions and never leaving a burn pile unattended.  

###

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 6:30 pm.

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

The public and guests may join in person or virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89331100906?pwd=aLzrmB9osC9a2I-Fv2QQtLFeeD_YHA.nKxi8i2HpFMKgM3x
Passcode:951959

Or Telephone, dial:

     +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 893 3110 0906
Passcode: 951959

Public comment will be limited to a total of 30 minutes per meeting. Individuals wishing to address the Board will be required to submit their request and topic via the online form at least 24 hours prior to the start of the regular business meeting.  For more information regarding this process, please visit our website at www.csd28j.org.

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

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

On Saturday, July 18, 2026, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an assault at a home near Metzger Park in unincorporated Washington County. The reporting party said he had come home and found an adult man in bed with his minor child.

Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) identified the man as 30-year-old Jason Emmanuel Lara-Vazquez. Detectives learned that Lara-Vazquez was posing as a teenager when he met the victim on Snapchat and had sexual contact with her more than once.  Lara-Vazquez was taken to a hospital that night after a confrontation at the home.

On September 15, 2026, a Washington County grand jury convened and indicted Lara-Vazquez on the following crimes related to the incident:

• Rape in the second degree x2
• Sodomy in the second degree x2
• Sexual abuse in the first degree x4
• Unlawful sexual penetration in the second degree x2

On September 24, 2026, the Vancouver Police Department assisted WCSO detectives in arresting Lara-Vazquez. He was lodged at the Clark County Jail and extradited to the Washington County Jail on October 8, 2026.  

Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims and want to speak with anyone who has information about Lara-Vazquez or who was contacted by him on Snapchat or other social media. Please contact VCU detectives at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-26-10111.

In accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273, the Sheriff’s Office is releasing Lara-Vazquez’s booking photo to assist in identifying any additional criminal activity.

Salem, Ore. - Center 50+’s Wellness on Wheels (WOW) Van and Connection Kitchen was awarded the Oregon Recreation and Parks Association’s Section for Older Adult Resources Program of the Year at the 2026 state conference in Seaside, Oregon. 

The program, nominated for their exceptional innovation, impact and leadership in expanding access to essential services for older adults, has been supported by Center for Community Excellence, Salem Health Foundation, Home Instead and United Way of the Willamette Valley.

Traditional senior center programming often serves only those able to visit a physical facility. In response, Center 50+ identified a significant community need in the thousands of older adults who remain isolated due to mobility, transportation and health challenges.

The WOW Van and Connection Kitchen were created to close this gap by bringing connection, support and vital services directly to older adults where they live, be it in manufactured home parks, neighborhood clubhouses, local parks and even right to their front porch.

Strengthening Community Connections for Salem’s Seniors

The WOW Van travels to local parks, neighborhood clubhouses, housing communities and community hubs throughout Salem delivering fitness instruction, wellness and mobility programming, nutrition support, lifelong learning classes, technology tutoring and social check-ins.

The Connection Kitchen serves hot noon meals at local 55-and-older mobile home parks and independent living communities. The kitchen rotates between 13 locations including the Salem Housing Authority and 55-and-older mobile home parks throughout the month.

“This outreach-centered approach strengthens community well-being, fosters social connection and directly aligns with Oregon Recreation and Parks Association’s mission to broaden access to meaningful recreational and wellness opportunities for all,” said Marilyn Daily-Blair, Center 50+ director. “The WOW Van and Connection Kitchen remain a lifeline, ensuring no older adult is left unseen or unsupported. Simple acts of kindness like sharing a meal, checking on a friend and engaging in community projects continue to create lasting ripple effects of belonging and resilience throughout Salem.”

By cultivating whole-person wellness, these programs help older adults build and sustain relationships, contribute to their neighborhoods and rediscover a sense of purpose, which are powerful tools in reducing isolation and loneliness.

Monthly community events feature seasonal themes, special guests, interactive activities, and opportunities to connect with nature.

VANCOUVER, Washington - Discover something new about the natural world at Columbia Springs Fall Nature Days, a series of free community events featuring hands on activities, special guests, demonstrations, and engaging monthly themes. From exploring the misunderstood creatures of spooky season to learning about fish and evergreen tree communities, these events invite community members of all ages to learn, discover, and connect with nature.

Once a month, Nature Days offer a new theme and opportunities to explore the natural world through interactive activities and educational experiences. Whether attending with family, friends, or on your own, visitors can enjoy a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity and environmental appreciation.

Monthly Themes and Special Activities

October 17, 10 am – 1 pm: (Not So) Scaries

Celebrate the spooky season by discovering the fascinating side of nature! Meet the creatures you thought you knew and discover they're not so scary after all. Get up close with the facts about spiders, bats, snakes, opossums, and raccoons. Learn what's really behind the behaviors we find spooky and uncover the truth about these misunderstood beings. Visit an opossum expert for some trivia and collect an exclusive zine available only at the event.

Special lamp repair and knife sharpening demonstrations by Columbia Springs Repairs’ volunteers will add to the fun. Visitors can learn practical repair skills and learn simple fixes for broken lamps and the best way to sharpen knives. Visitors can bring up to 2 broken lamps and 3 knives. Please be sure to bring replacement parts for lamps (switches, cords, etc).

November 21^st, 10 am – 1 pm: Fish Games

Dive into the world of fish through play. Challenge yourself to jump as high as a salmon at our jump wall, navigate a salmon's life cycle through a labyrinth game, and explore fish-themed board and card games that bring aquatic science to your fingertips. Discover what makes these underwater athletes so extraordinary while gaming your way to a deeper understanding of the fish that shape our rivers and streams.

December 19^th, 10 am – 1pm: Evergreen Tree Communities

Step into the hidden world of evergreen communities. Discover how these trees share nutrients through underground fungal networks, shelter wildlife in their canopies, and build soil with the help of decomposers. Explore how returning salmon feed the forest, and learn to read the trees by their needles, bark, and cones.

Free Community Events for All Ages

Nature Days at Columbia Springs make nature education accessible and engaging for the entire community. Each monthly event features a unique theme, hands-on learning opportunities, and special experiences designed to inspire curiosity and encourage a deeper appreciation for the environment. All are welcome.

Community members are invited to join the fun each month and experience the natural world in new and engaging ways. From discovering the surprising benefits of often-misunderstood wildlife to exploring aquatic ecosystems and evergreen habitats, Fall Nature Days offers opportunities to learn something new at every event.

For more information about Columbia Springs’ Fall Nature Days, including event dates, times, and activity details, visit https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/nature-days/.

###

About Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs’ mission is to offer a unique setting and educational experiences that foster a greater awareness of the natural world and inspire stewardship. Located within a 100-acre urban natural area in Vancouver, Washington, Columbia Springs connects children and community members with nature through field trips, salmon education, community programs and hands-on learning.

State of Oregon v. Daniel Haynes

Marion County Circuit Court Cases 25CR48419, 25CR37418 and 25CR69268

Salem, OR – October 9, 2026 – On October 7, 2026, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Manuel Perez sentenced Daniel Haynes (age 42) to 9.5 years in the Department of Corrections.

The conviction is the result of guilty pleas in three different cases. The first case stems from an incident on September 18, 2024 in NE Salem when Marion County Sheriff’s deputies arrived on the scene of a vehicle collision. Haynes, who was driving a motorcycle, crashed into a vehicle making a legal turn. Haynes and his passenger were ejected onto the road. Haynes, his passenger, and the other driver were transported to the Salem Hospital Emergency Room Department where Haynes’ labs later revealed four different controlled substances in his blood. Haynes pled guilty to Driving Under the Influence, Assault in the Third Degree, and Assault in the Fourth Degree.

In the second case, deputies arrested Haynes on June 11, 2025, after he was found in the parking lot of a Lancaster business with fentanyl and methamphetamine. He pled guilty to Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance.  

In the third case, deputies responded to a disturbance call in SE Salem and found Haynes in possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine and a firearm. He pled guilty to Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Manufacture/Delivery of a Schedule II Controlled Substance and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  Haynes was out of custody on a release agreement pending the earlier cases when this incident occurred.

The state was represented by Deputy District Attorney Matthew Estrada. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office wishes to extend gratitude to the deputies at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.  

###

HILLSBORO, Ore- On October 2, 2026, Viviana Lucinda Vallejo pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree and was sentenced to 18 years in prison by Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Erwin. Chief Deputy District Attorney John Gerhard and Senior Deputy District Attorney Dustin Staten prosecuted this case.
 

On November 4, 2020, Hillsboro police were dispatched to the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve after someone there found a body. Investigators learned that the victim, Alexis Vega-Cruz, was shot and killed.
 

In January of 2023, police received a tip related to the homicide. The caller reported that a person known to her had admitted to shooting and killing the victim. Investigators learned that the shooter believed Mr. Vega-Cruz was involved in an assault months prior and that the shooter was seeking revenge for the attack. They learned the shooter convinced Ms. Vallejo to lure the victim to the scene of the deadly shooting before he was killed.
 

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

The co-defendant in this case is scheduled for trial in early 2027.

New location expands access to personalized, in-person banking and builds on OnPoint’s longtime presence in Lake Oswego

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union will open its second Lake Oswego branch on October 16 at 101 A Avenue in the heart of downtown, expanding its longtime presence in the community with a new location serving residents, businesses and visitors in the city’s growing downtown core. OnPoint will donate $5,000 to Hunger Fighters Oregon and host a community grand opening on October 24 to celebrate the new branch.

The opening comes as Lake Oswego continues to invest in its future, with new housing, commercial development and other improvements planned throughout downtown and surrounding areas. While population growth is projected to remain steady, continued development is expected to bring new residents, businesses and visitors to the community in the years ahead.

“As Lake Oswego continues to invest in its downtown and plan for the future, we’re excited to deepen our own investment in the community,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our Kruse Meadows branch has served Lake Oswego for years, and this new downtown location will make it even easier for members and local businesses to access personalized financial services close to where they live and work.”

The Lake Oswego Branch will provide a comprehensive suite of financial services, including:

• Full member account support
• New membership enrollment
• Personal and commercial loans
• Home and equity lending
• Financial planning
• ATM services
• Notarization

OnPoint also offers free, one-on-one financial counseling, debt management support and educational resources through its partnership with GreenPath Financial Wellness.

Community invited to grand opening celebration

The Lake Oswego community is invited to join OnPoint's grand opening on October 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can meet the branch team, explore the new space and learn more about OnPoint's products, services and community partnerships.

Local leadership and community connection

Colette Young will lead the new branch as branch manager. Young joined OnPoint in 2002 and has held a variety of roles across the credit union, most recently serving as branch manager at OnPoint’s Kruse Meadows branch.

“I’m excited to continue serving the Lake Oswego community and welcome members to our new downtown branch,” Young said. “Having another location gives us an opportunity to build even stronger relationships with the people and businesses who call Lake Oswego home and make it easier for members to get personalized support when and where they need it.”

Young lives in Southwest Portland with her husband, Ryan, and their two Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Outside the credit union, she serves on the board of trustees at Randal Children’s Hospital. A lifelong Oregonian, Young enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking, fishing and camping.

OnPoint's $5,000 donation to Hunger Fighters Oregon reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves. The food pantry provides food and essential household items at no cost to those in need, with no proof of income or residency barriers.

“Support from partners like OnPoint helps us continue our work to ensure that people in need in our community can access high-quality, basic and supplemental food and essential hygiene items,” said Simone Coker-Kamna, executive director, Hunger Fighters Oregon. “We’re grateful for OnPoint’s investment in our work and excited to welcome its new downtown branch to Lake Oswego.”

Expanding OnPoint’s presence in Lake Oswego

The new downtown location builds on OnPoint’s longstanding presence in Lake Oswego. The credit union will continue to serve members at its Kruse Meadows branch while providing another convenient option for personalized, in-person financial services closer to the city’s downtown businesses, residents and visitors.

Click here to view the full list of OnPoint's 61 branches, as well as 70,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide.

###

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 671,000 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 33 Oregon counties (Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, 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.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

More information

Additional background and resources on becoming a member of the Governor’s boards and commissions can be found on the Governor’s website.

For questions about the LGBTQIA2S+ Subcommittee of the Governor’s Commission on Senior Services, send an email to tqia2s.commission@odhs.oregon.gov" target="_blank" title="mailto:lgbtqia2s.commission@odhs.oregon.gov">lgbtqia2s.commission@odhs.oregon.gov.

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry understands that with wildfire regulations changing at the city, county and state level, knowing what the fire restrictions are in your area may be confusing. Here are some quick Q&As to help clear up some of that confusion.

When can I burn my yard debris?

Across Oregon there are multiple jurisdictions that vary from city to county to state to federal, and each may have different restrictions on fire. While in fire season, debris burning is prohibited on ODF-protected lands. But what if you’re outside of ODF jurisdiction?

The easiest way to look up if it is safe to burn your yard debris is to visit beforeyouburn.net. The Before You Burn program simplifies and coordinates burns and provides real-time information to ensure the safety of Oregon’s communities. The online system empowers community members with the knowledge they need to comply with local regulations and burn responsibly.

What if I want to have a campfire?

Oregon is well known for its beautiful landscapes and forests, making outdoor recreation one of the most popular pastimes in the state. To keep these beautiful forests, it’s important to check the local regulations of the area or the regulations at state or national park you’re camping in. Campfires may be allowed but only in designated sites and, depending on fire danger, they may not be allowed at all.

Regulations may vary depending on where you are, so using the public resources available will make planning your trip much easier.

• Look up ODF fire regulations before recreating.
• Oregon State Parks has a trip planning tool that will give you all the information you need to know about the campsite you’re staying at. 
• Find the national forest you’re visiting and plan ahead.
• Learn about the different recreation activities and campground restrictions on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

The common theme, especially during this time of year, is to check local regulations before you go. Taking that extra step will help protect Oregon’s forests from wildfire and keep them open for recreation.

What about the prescribed fires around me? Is that safe?

Prescribed burning is a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy forest, reducing wildfire smoke and reducing risks to public safety. These fires are thoroughly planned throughout the year to meet ecological objectives and are only lit when weather and fuel conditions are favorable to protect sensitive communities and areas from their smoke. If conditions change and are deemed unfavorable, the burn is postponed.

Battle Ground, Wash. - The Clark County Arts Commission invites the public to an engaging afternoon of art, creativity, and conversation at Arts Talk Live, taking place on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, at 4 pm, at the Battle Ground Community Library.

This special event features three talented artists: Joylynn Woodard, Hiroko Stumpf, and Sharon Harbeck, who will share insights into their creative journeys, artistic techniques, and the inspiration behind their work.

Arts Talk Live is an ongoing community initiative designed to bring artists and audiences together through lively discussions about the creative process and the role of art in our everyday lives. The program provides a rare opportunity to hear directly from working artists, explore their perspectives, and engage in an interactive conversation.

Organized by Clark County Arts Commission, Arts Talk Live seeks to strengthen the connection between the arts and the wider community while celebrating the region's diverse creative talent.

The Arts Talk Live event is free and open to the public. Art enthusiasts, aspiring artists, and curious community members are warmly encouraged to attend.

Event Details:

4 pm Sunday, Oct. 25

Battle Ground Community Library, Meyer Memorial Trust Community Room, 1207 SE 8th Way

Trails will be closed starting mid- and late October.

Port Orford, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is conducting several land and forest management projects in October. This is a regular part of OPRD’s stewardship and supports healthy ecosystems.

Check the park pages linked below for updates.

Humbug Mountain State Park

Humbug Mountain Trail will be closed for about two weeks starting Monday, Oct. 19. OPRD is managing a sudden oak death infestation in tanoak. Sudden oak death is an invasive pathogen that causes tanoak to die. The treatment is necessary to remove the infected and dead tanoak to reduce the spread of sudden oak death within the park and surrounding areas.

Within the 21-acre treatment area all tanoak will be cut down and the tree stumps will be treated with herbicide to limit resprouting. This treatment will also reduce the chances of wildfire risk by removing the unhealthy and dead trees. Initially discovered in Oregon in 2001, this pathogen spread within Curry County affecting private, state, and federal landowners.

Cape Blanco State Park

The horse trail system will be closed for about three weeks starting Monday, Oct. 26. OPRD is reducing tree density within this area to enhance habitat, specifically to support the state and federally listed endangered western lily.

This work will take place across 34 acres and include removing tree seedings, saplings and other trees to allow more meadow species to thrive and reduce encroachment in the sensitive western lily area.

PF&R responds to two significant fires in short time interval

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to two significant fires in a 6-hour period in NE Portland. The first fire occurred at sunset and was confined to a single structure in an area of many buildings. The second significant fire response occurred at just past 1 AM on the next day, about 3 hours after the last crew picked up and cleared the first fire.

At just past 7 PM in the Hazelwood Neighborhood of NE Portland PF&R was dispatched to a fire in an apartment complex with heavy fire showing upon arrival. An active powerline bouncing alongside the structure with a vehicle leaking fuel actively on fire were challenges to the crew. Interior searches of the structure indicated all occupants were outside safely. A difficult access to the attic space led to the creative use of an infrequently used nozzle applicator to extinguish the body of fire in the attic spaces. There were no reports of any injuries in this fire. The cause of this fire is under investigation.

The second fire response was just past 1:30 AM with crews responding to a commercial semi-truck and trailer fabrication and repair structure in the Cully Neighborhood. Heavy fire showing from a large multi-story metal clad structure with a lot littered with semi cabs, trailers and other trucks led to a challenging approach for arriving crews.

The initial arriving company began using an offensive fire attack initially with access provided through a failed roll up garage door but quickly changed to a defensive operation pulling all firefighters from the interior of the structure. An additional access to the building was cut into an adjacent roll up door that allowed firefighters to apply water to the body of fire from these two openings. An aerial ladder truck was raining down water from above using the master stream on the tip of the extended ladder.

Water supply was crucial with the closest fire hydrants located blocks away. Multiple fire engines were used in pushing the required amount of water from the hydrants to the engines and trucks with their aerial master streams used to apply copious amounts of water from above to reduce the flames and body of fire. The closest fire hydrant was quite a distance which required multiple engines inline relay pumping to have enough water at the end of the nozzles to successfully extinguish the flames.

A battalion chief and engine company from the requested 2^nd Alarm were redirected to a row of homes located to the west of the building to begin preparing for potential fire extension. Fortunately, the crews working on the fire were able to reduce the flames and extinguish the fire by saving over half the building and preventing any fire spread to the row of homes on the elevated hill just to the west of the fire building.

The PF&R Fire Investigations Unit beginning to perform their work to determine cause. No reported injuries.

PF&R would like to thank PPB and the dispatchers at BOEC for their assistance in each of these incidents. Additional thanks to the utility companies for their assistance as well with both electric and gas companies responding to each fire.

###

Vehicle Crash leads to Water Rescue

October 8, 2026 – Newport, OR
 

On October 8^th, 2026, at approximately 1:18 PM, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a report of a single vehicle crash near SE Shady Cove Ln. The initial report indicated the vehicle crashed into the Alsea Bay and was partially submerged, approximately 40 feet from the shoreline. When deputies arrived on scene, they located a Gray Subaru Outback submerged in the water up to the windows. Deputies saw an individual who appeared to be trapped inside the vehicle and heard him calling for help. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Deputies acted swiftly, locating a small boat nearby, and rowed out to the vehicle. 

Once at the vehicle, Deputy Jacob Wright forced entry into the vehicle and established an elderly male driver, who was the sole occupant, was in distress and not able to get himself out of the vehicle. Deputy Wright exited out of the boat, entering the bay, and was able to get the elderly male out of the vehicle, holding him above water until Central Oregon Coast Fire personnel arrived. Deputies assisted fire personnel in loading the patient onto a Jet Ski and took him to shore, where PacWest Ambulance personnel were waiting to begin treatment and transport of the patient. 

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office would like to commend Deputy Wright’s swift and selfless action in rendering aid to an individual in crisis. His actions embody LCSO’s commitment to providing our community with outstanding service, ensuring the safety and quality of life of all our community members. LCSO would also like to thank our first responder partners for their assistance in safely resolving this incident.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – On October 7, 2026, at around 3:15 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 3500 block of SE 164^th Avenue for the report of a kidnapping. A woman called 9-1-1 to report her husband had gotten into a vehicle in Portland with four males in a black Suburban who had approached him, asked him if he wanted to make some money and that they needed him to cash a check for them. The victim agreed and got into the vehicle but became concerned about his safety and was not allowed to leave. The vehicle traveled into Vancouver and the victim was able to provide his location to his wife who relayed the information to dispatch.

Vancouver Police and the Washington State Patrol responded to the area and located the vehicle traveling on SE 164^th Avenue toward SR-14. A traffic stop was conducted, and four occupants were detained. The victim was located on foot, uninjured a short distance away by the Washington State Patrol. 

Akeem J. Mattis, Dennis D. Nelson, Corey D. Jenkins and Jerome T. Boyd were arrested and booked into the Clark County Jail for second degree Kidnapping.

###

The Beaverton Police Department is pleased to announce that 3-year-old Joshua E. Ovalles, who was reported missing on October 7, 2026 and was the subject of an Amber Alert, has been located, is safe and has been reunited with his father.

Joshua was located safely in the City of Lake Oswego after his mother, Mari Martinez, dropped him off at the home of a trusted individual.

After dropping Joshua off, Martinez fled the area, prompting a coordinated search by law enforcement to locate her. Officers and detectives from the Beaverton Police Department, along with personnel from the Lake Oswego Police Department and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, participated in the search. A Lake Oswego Police Department detective ultimately located Martinez, who was taken into custody.

Joshua had been the subject of an ongoing search after Martinez took him following a Washington County judge’s decision to grant temporary custody to Joshua’s father. The court determined Joshua was in “immediate danger” while in his mother’s unsupervised custody.

Following his recovery, Joshua was reunited with his father. Photographs accompanying this release capture the emotional reunion between father and son.

The Beaverton Police Department extends its sincere appreciation to the Lake Oswego Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, and the many community members who shared information and helped bring attention to Joshua’s disappearance.

Most importantly, we are grateful that Joshua has been found safe and is back in his father’s arms.

Martinez is in Beaverton police custody and is facing charges of Custodial Interference and Kidnapping. 

###

ASTORIA, OR - Clatsop County’s buildings will be illuminated green November 4 -11, 2026 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans.

This national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties supports military veterans and raises awareness about unique challenges faced by many veterans and resources available at the county, state, and federal level to assist them and their families.

“Something as simple as changing a light bulb can send a powerful message,” said Clatsop County Board Chair Mark Kujala. “When our homes, businesses and public buildings shine green, we’re showing veterans throughout Clatsop County that their community stands with them. I hope everyone will join us in making that message visible.”

Along with lighting County buildings, residents, businesses, and other local agencies are encouraged to take part by changing one or more light bulbs inside or outside your home or place of business to a green bulb from November 4-11. This simple act not only expresses our support, it also helps spark conversations about the needs of veterans in our community and the services available to them and their families.

Confirmed participants so far include Clatsop Community Action, Astoria Elks #180, and the cities of Astoria, Cannon Beach, and Seaside. Clatsop County is grateful for their partnership in honoring our veterans and encourages other local agencies and businesses to join the effort. 

By shining a green light, we seek to let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. Community members can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

Need a green bulb? To help the community participate, a limited number of free bulbs are available at the following locations while supplies last:

• Veteran Services Office at Clatsop Community College
  1717 Lexington Ave, Astoria, OR 97103 | Thurs–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

• County Manager’s Office, 4th Floor Reception
  800 Exchange Street, Astoria, OR 97103 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Visit the County’s Veteran Services Program webpage for more information and links to resources available to veterans.

###

October 8 – Lincoln County, Oregon

Lincoln County residents live on the Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Faultline. This means it is even more important for our communities to be informed and prepared.

Lincoln County Emergency Management is encouraging community members, businesses, and community groups to participate in the annual Great Oregon ShakeOut. This event provides a chance for you to practice what you would do during an earthquake. While the official event takes place on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 10:15 am, you can practice your drop, cover, and hold during the days leading up to or directly after the drill.

Participants in the Newport Marina and Bayfront areas may hear the NOAA siren at approximately 10:15 a.m. on October 15 as part of the drill.

It is important to register if you participate. By registering you will help Lincoln County Public Safety agencies document the high level of preparedness in our community. Participation in this event shows that we are working together to strengthen our community resiliency and emergency preparedness. This event also provides a good reminder to update your emergency plans and supplies.

Below is a graphic on the annual summary of participants here in Lincoln County. So far, 5974 have registered for this year.
 

Oregon ShakeOut Statistics - https://www.shakeout.org/oregon/whoisparticipating/

More information on earthquake and tsunami preparedness:

Great Oregon ShakeOut:

• Registration & General Information: www.shakeout.org/oregon/
• Recommended Earthquake Safety Actions: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Recommended_Earthquake_Safety_Actions.pdf
• Earthquake Country Alliance: Welcome to Earthquake Country! https://www.earthquakecountry.org/accessibility/
• Earthquake Guide for People with Disabilities: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Earthquake_Guide_Disabilities_AFN.pdf
• Media – PSA Resources: www.shakeout.org/oregon/resources/index.html#multimedia

Lincoln County Emergency Management

• Cascadia Earthquake Factsheet: www.oregongeology.org/pubs/fs/cascadia-planning-for-em-and-public.pdf
• Earthquake and Tsunami Emergency Guide: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/DocumentCenter/View/2062
• Hazards: Earthquakes: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-earthquake
• Hazards: Tsunamis: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/772/Hazards-Tsunamis
• Main page: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/708/Emergency-Management

CDC

• Preparing for an earthquake: https://www.cdc.gov/earthquakes/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.cdc.gov/disasters/tsunamis/

Ready.gov

• Earthquakes: www.ready.gov/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.ready.gov/tsunamis

Red Cross

• Earthquake Safety: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/earthquake.html

Emergency Management Programs (In Alphabetical Order)

• City of Lincoln City https://www.lincolncity.org/residents/emergency-preparedness
• City of Newport newportoregon.gov/emergency/default.asp
• Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians https://ctsi.nsn.us/east-lincoln-county-cert/
• Lincoln County https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement

###

Respectfully submitted,

Samantha Buckley
Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management
225 W. Olive St., Newport, Oregon 97365
uckley@co.lincoln.or.us">sbuckley@co.lincoln.or.us (541) 265-4199 Office
 

Pulitzer Prize finalist Ed Park opens 2026-27 Columbia Writers Series

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Clark College Columbia Writers Series will begin its 2026–27 season with Ed Park, author of the book Same Bed Different Dreams, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and winner of the Los Angeles TimesBook Prize. Additionally, Park has authored Personal Days, a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award, and the story collection An Oral History of Atlantis. His latest book is the memoir Three Tenses: A Transmission from the Nineties. 

This event, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, in the Penguin Union Building (PUB) Room 258 on Clark College’s main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.

Park’s accolades include the Arts and Letters Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 2025 and the Deborah Pease Prize from the nonprofit publisher A Public Space. He is a founding editor of the literary magazine, The Believer, and currently teaches writing at Princeton University.

EVENT DETAILS

Location: Penguin Union Building 258, Clark College main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98683

Parking: Green or Red lots—view online map and directions here.

Accommodations: If you need accommodations due to a disability to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu

Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.

Fall Columbia Writers Series Events

• Ed Park, author of the book Same Bed Different Dreams and Pulitzer Prize winner, Thursday, Nov 5, 11 am
  (see above)
   

• Debra Magpie Earling, fiction writer, February 2, 2027, 1 p.m.
  Earling is the author of Perma Red and The Lost Journals of Sacajewea, an award-winning novel that challenges dominant narratives of the life of Sacajewea. She has received both a National Endowment for the Arts grant and a Guggenheim Fellowship. She was the first Native American to serve as director of the Creative Writing Program at the University of Montana, where she was recently awarded an honorary doctorate and serves as professor emeritus. Born in Spokane, Washington, she is Bitterroot Salish.
   
• Erica Berry, author and essayist, May 26, 2027, 11 a.m.
  Berry is a writer and teacher based in her hometown of Portland, Oregon. Her essays, which are often about the confluence of emotions and the natural world, appear in The New York Times, The Guardian, National Geographic, Emergence, The Yale Review, and Orion, where she is a contributing editor. She is the author of Wolfish: Wolf, Self, and the Stories We Tell About Fear, which won the Oregon Book Award, and the forthcoming Bodies in Heat: Love in a Changing Climate. Winner of a James Beard Award, Oregon Career Fellowships, and a Spark Award from the Miller Foundation, she was a 2026 Mark and Melody Teppola Presidential Distinguished Visiting Professor at Willamette University.

About Clark’s Columbia Writers Series

The Columbia Writers Series aims to enrich the intellectual and cultural life of Clark College by providing a platform for literature and the arts. Since 1988, the series has brought a diverse array of local, national, and international authors to the campus and the community. Learn more about the Columbia Writers Series.

About Clark College

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark Collegeprovides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students, including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.   

####

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Grants Pass, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today to illegally possessing a gun he stole in a burglary, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Matthew Bertrand, 45, pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm. Bertrand is a felon, having been previously convicted five other times for burglary and theft.

According to court documents, on January 5, 2024, Central Point Police responded to a burglary in progress. A witness told police that the witness saw a man wearing a black ski mask, a black jacket, and blue jeans jump the fence and go inside a home.

When police arrived and spoke to the homeowner, they saw Bertrand flee through the back of the home. Police caught Bertrand after chasing him through multiple backyards. Bertrand had a black ski mask. Police recovered the gun belonging to the homeowner in the area where Bertrand ran.

Bertrand admitted to "rob[bing] the house", stealing the gun, and being in the victim's house on a prior occasion because the owner had "lots of toys."

On June 6, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a two-count indictment charging Bertrand with felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm. He will be sentenced on March 11, 2027, before U.S. District Court Judge Kasubhai.

Bertrand faces a maximum of life with a mandatory minimum of fifteen years’ imprisonment as an armed career criminal. He also faces a fine of $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 fee assessment.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Medford Police Department, and Central Point Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judi Harper is prosecuting the case.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

###

READ ONLINE: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/multnomah-county-sheriffs-office-leads-multi-agency-transit-mission-14-arrested

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore.  – As part of ongoing efforts to increase public safety in NE Portland and along the public transit corridors, TriMet’s Transit Police, led by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), coordinated a high-visibility enforcement mission on October 6, 2026.

The operation centered around the transit station at NE 122^nd and E Burnside. It lasted about four hours and resulted in the following:

• 14 arrests
• 19 code violations
• 5 traffic stops

In addition, one person was issued a transit exclusion, which prohibits them from entering TriMet property. Four of the arrested were charged with delivery of a controlled substance for fentanyl and methamphetamine.

This mission was part of an ongoing effort, under the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Enhanced Public Safety Initiative, to address drug activity and other public safety concerns extending onto the transit system. It was conducted in coordination with Transit Police, Portland Police Bureau’s North Precinct Neighborhood Response Team, MCSO Corrections Transport Unit and MCSO’s Airborne Law Enforcement Support Team (ALEST).

About Transit Police:   

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police. Transit Police officers and deputies help to ensure a safe transit system by riding trains and buses and visiting platforms and stations. They respond to calls for service and investigate crimes that occur on TriMet property in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. 

Current agencies comprising Transit Police include MCSO, the Portland Police Bureau, Port of Portland Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

DOWNLOADABLE PHOTOS/VIDEO:  Photo 1 | Photo 2 |  Photo 3 | Photo 4 | B-roll Video 

###

2026 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com and are reviewed on a rolling basis

• One member who is an administrator of a municipality recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the League of Oregon Cities
• One member who is part of a marginalized or historically underrepresented community
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by December 17, 2026.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One non-management corrections officer employed by the DOC

Police Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a police officer, certified reserve officer, reserve officer or regulatory specialist and who is not related within the second degree by affinity or consanguinity to a person who is employed or utilized as a police officer, certified reserve officer, reserve officer or regulatory specialist.​

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing unarmed private security professionals
• One person representing the manufacturing industry
• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing the hospitality industry
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• One currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing a statewide association of public safety communications officers
• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

Clark County Public Works is seeking two adults who are committed to working together to serve as park hosts to care for Lewisville Regional Park and its historic structures. These positions are part of Public Works’ volunteer park host program, where volunteers live at a county park and perform basic security and maintenance duties.

The park hosts at Lewisville Regional Park, located in Battle Ground, must reside in the county-owned residence at the park and assist with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Host duties include (but are not limited to):

• Clean the park’s restrooms daily and as needed in response to messes.
• Open the park’s gates by 7 a.m. and close gates at dusk (a half-hour after sunset), daily. Hosts notify park users that the park is closing.
• Empty the park’s garbage cans.
• Pick up litter daily.
• Notify staff of emergencies, urgent maintenance needs, or impacts of severe weather.
• Help identify and respond to safety and security concerns.

Lewisville Regional Park is the oldest and the most popular park in the county’s park system. In the summer months, more than a thousand people visit the park on weekend days. The park has about 35 toilets, more than a dozen reservable picnic shelters, and many facilities that require daily cleaning. During the summer months, restrooms and other facilities often need cleaning several times daily. Applicants should be prepared for the physical commitment required to support this busy regional park.

The park host service term is one calendar year. This position would serve through Dec. 31, 2027. A host may be offered a term for the subsequent calendar year, based on results of a performance evaluation performed in the fall. There is no maximum to the number of consecutive terms a host may serve.

The residence includes a washer/dryer, refrigerator and basic kitchen appliances. Clark County provides basic utilities for the host, including electricity, water, sewer and garbage/recycling. The hosts must provide their own phone and internet service. A maximum of two adults and two minors/dependents may reside at the park residence. Additional restrictions, such as limits on pets and guests, are listed on the volunteer program webpage.

Applicants offered positions must submit to state and federal background checks and fingerprinting, provide a rental history and provide proof of renter’s insurance that meets program requirements. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to read the park host policies and procedures, posted on the volunteer program webpage, before applying.

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

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.

###

On October 8, 2026, at approximately 10:41 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a three-vehicle crash in La Center that left one person dead.

The crash involved a full-size C-TRAN bus, a Chrysler PT Cruiser, and a minivan.

Based on the preliminary investigation, the PT Cruiser was traveling westbound on NW La Center Road when it appears to have crossed the center line and struck the front corner of the C-TRAN bus. The collision triggered a chain-reaction crash involving a minivan traveling behind the PT Cruiser.

The female driver of the PT Cruiser, who was the vehicle’s sole occupant, died as a result of the crash.

The C-TRAN bus was carrying passengers at the time of the collision. Minor injuries were reported. An adult and a child traveling in the minivan were not injured.

NW La Center Road is expected to remain closed for several hours between Timmen Road and Paradise Park Road while investigators process the scene and crews clear the roadway. Drivers are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes to allow first responders to safely complete their work.

The CCSO Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating the crash. The cause remains under investigation.

Hockinson School District Board of Directors Work Session

Date: Monday October 12, 2026

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: via Zoom

State of Oregon v. Damon K. Johnson

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR38374

SALEM, OR (October 8, 2026) – Today, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart sentenced Damon Johnson (age 29), to 10 years/120 months in the Department of Corrections.  This sentence is to be served pursuant to ORS 137.700 (Ballot Measure 11).

Ten years is both the minimum and maximum sentence available to the state in this case.

Johnson was found guilty of Manslaughter in the First Degree, Manslaughter in Second Degree, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and Violation of Open Container Laws, in connection with a July 10, 2025 crash on Delaney Road SE that killed Jeremy Wanak, a bicyclist.

At the time of his death, Wanak was a father of two and a Sprague High School science teacher.

On July 10, 2025, Marion County Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene on Delaney Road SE.  Around 7:16 pm, Damon Johnson was driving eastbound when, while entering a 25 mph advisory curve at an excessive speed, he crossed the double line and struck Jeremy Wanak, who was riding his bicycle westbound in the correct lane of travel. Wanak died as a result of the injuries he sustained from the crash. During the investigation, deputies on scene noticed an odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle.  Pursuant to a search warrant of Johnson’s vehicle, deputies located three cans of beer that were open and nearly empty, one full unopened can of beer, as well as marijuana.  Johnson denied consuming either alcohol or drugs.

Pursuant to a search warrant, Johnson’s blood alcohol level was tested and found to be above the legal limit at 0.098%.  His blood was also shown to have active components of recent cannabis consumption.

Johnson had a prior DUII and reckless driving conviction and multiple traffic violations.

Marion County Sheriff’s Deputies were assisted by the Keizer Police Department as well as the Marion County District Attorney’s Office in their investigation. 

“DUIIs are entirely avoidable, which makes DUII fatalities especially tragic,” said District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “I know that the victim’s death in this case impacted numerous local communities and people of all ages, and our heart goes out to them today. I hope this conviction secures some measure of closure for the victim’s family as they navigate life after facing this tragic loss.”

The state was represented by Deputy District Attorneys Justin Barbot-Wheaton and Sarah Meyer in this case.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office wishes to recognize the thorough work of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, particularly the Marion County Inter-Agency Crash Reconstruction Team, as well as the Keizer Police Department.

###

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 incorporated in 1988 and opened to the public in June of 2000.

Dates:  Friday, October 23^rd and Saturday, October 24^th    

Time:   10:00 am until 4:00 pm.

Vendors will provide a variety of hand-crafted items for sale: greeting cards, ornaments, aprons, baby bibs, journals, memory books, jewelry, woodburning & vinyl decals, to name a few. The Museum Store will be open for business. Stop by and find the perfect gift and/or home decor for the upcoming holidays from talented artists and craftspeople.

The vendors donate 10% of their sales to the Museum. The proceeds benefit the Museum’s development, maintenance, and operating expenses.

The museum is wheelchair accessible and has air conditioning.  Admission is free.  Donations are welcome.

Quilt raffle tickets will be available for “Country Life”, a beautiful quilt made by the Chelatchie Quilters. Tickets are $5.00 each, and only 500 tickets were printed.  This is the annual fundraiser, and proceeds go to the Capital Improvement Fund, which is being accumulated for a new roof in 2-3 years.

For more information, please contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message or email museumnch88@gmail.com or check out the website at northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com

###

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.

WEST LINN, OR—October 6, 2026—The City of West Linn received $392,400 for the first phase of implementing the West Linn Waterfront Vision Plan, which provides a framework for transforming the City’s underutilized waterfront areas. The goal is to facilitate reinvestment opportunities, improve multimodal access, provide access and connections to the Willamette River, and highlight the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

"This historic investment from Metro is an exciting step toward turning West Linn’s Waterfront Vision into reality,” said West Linn Mayor Rory Bialostosky. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our community to plan what the future of this area can look like and build on the vision residents have helped shape. This funding gives us a tremendous opportunity to move from vision to implementation and create a waterfront that serves our community for generations to come.”

Adopted in November 2025, the plan establishes a long-term vision for the City’s 275-acre waterfront, with opportunities for housing, economic development, public river access and preservation of the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Phase 1 focuses solely on the Historic City Hall District at the north end of the waterfront area. It will include zoning, development code, and comprehensive plan amendments; transportation and economic feasibility analyses; infrastructure assessments; and evaluations of public access and environmental conditions. Community engagement will continue throughout the project.

The City has worked with community members since 2016 to shape the Waterfront Vision Plan. The City Council has prioritized a coordinated approach to reconnect fragmented areas, clarify development pathways and encourage reinvestment.

Partners supporting the grant application included commercial property owners in the Historic City Hall district, Willamette Falls Locks Authority, Portland General Electric, the Confederated Tribe of the Siletz, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, and the Willamette Falls Trust. Community Development Director Steve Koper thanked area property owners and tribes for providing letters of support for the implementation project.

ABOUT THE GRANT PROGRAM

Metro’s 2040 Planning and Development Grant Program helps communities implement the region’s long-term growth vision. Funded by a regional excise tax on certain construction projects, the program supports planning that expands housing and employment opportunities, encourages economic development and enables complete, equitable neighborhoods.

Learn more about Metro’s 2040 Planning and Development Grant Program.

This story has been updated to correct an organization name. We regret the error.

Aurora, Ore. – Oregon State Parks invites you to join award-winning author Silpa Kona for the launch of A Dragon in My Campground, a reading, and a Monster Watchers camping activity for kids and families on Oct. 17 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Books will be available at to purchase from the author and at the visitor center store.
 

Kona’s Monster Watchers series, which includes A Monster on My Trail, winner of a Moonbeam Children's Book Awards Gold Medal, and A Dragon in My Campground, winner of a Moonbeam Children's Book Awards Silver Medal, are a celebration of imagination, courage and exploring the outdoors.
 

In her own words, “I wrote it because I wanted kids—especially kids with big imaginations, big fears, or big feelings—to see themselves out on the trail. To know that being scared is okay. And that sometimes, the monster is just… a shadow with good PR.”
 

The event takes place at the Champoeg State Heritage Area visitor center. Pets are not allowed inside the building. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The event is free, but all vehicles must display a valid Oregon State Parks parking permit or camping reservation.
 

Oregon State Parks is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at 503-800-3958 at least three days prior to the event.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver will host Los Angeles-based comedian, writer, director and producer Joey Clift as part of the 2026 DocArts Series to speak about his path into comedy and entertainment, his creative work and Native representation in media.

Clift’s talk, “Fighting Native Erasure Through Jokes” is from 12:05 to 1:20 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 on the WSU Vancouver campus in Dengerink Administration Building, Room 110 and on Zoom (bit.ly/4xKkv7L passcode: DocArts26). Clifts is a Peabody and two-time Emmy Award-nominated writer whose work centers Native representation in comedy, television and film. The event is free and open to the public.

Clift originally attended college to become a local television weather person. Growing up without seeing Native American comedians on television, he believed that comedy was not a career available to him. He later found his way into the field, and his experiences with Native representation in entertainment have helped shape his work as a comedian and writer.

Clift has written for television shows including Netflix’s “Spirit Rangers,” PBS’s “Molly of Denali,” Cartoon Network’s “Lego Ninjago: Decoded,” Dropout’s “Smartypants” and “Toonout” and Nickelodeon’s “PAW Patrol” and “Rubble & Crew.” His work has also been featured in The Washington Post, Pitchfork, NPR, Dead Meat, Dropout and Comedy Central.

Clift created “Gone Native,” a Webby Award-winning Comedy Central Digital series featuring Native American comedians. His short films have screened at venues and festivals including Just For Laughs and the Smithsonian Museum.

The DocArts Initiative is an outgrowth of decades of justice-oriented multimedia production and creation by WSU faculty. DocArts works to integrate multimedia production across the curriculum while creating content for local, national and international platforms

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver and is accessible via I-5, I-205 and C-TRAN bus service.

WSU Vancouver is located on the homelands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Peoples of the Lower Columbia Valley. We acknowledge their presence here. WSU Vancouver expresses its respect towards these original and current caretakers of the region. We pledge that these relationships will be built on mutual trust and respect.

###

4 WEEKS CASCADIA READY

Emergencies can happen anytime. Sometimes help may not arrive for days or even weeks, especially after big disasters like earthquakes or wildfires. In Lincoln County, we recommend being ready to take care of yourself and your family for at least 4 weeks. This is called being “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready.”

What does this mean?

• Have enough food, water, and supplies for everyone in your home for four weeks. This includes pets.
• You may need things like medicine, first aid supplies, flashlights, and extra batteries.
• Plan for how you will stay clean, cook food, and stay warm if the power is out.

How to Get Ready

Be Informed

• Learn about the dangers where you live, like earthquakes, storms, and floods.
• Know your local evacuation routes.
• Sign up for emergency alerts with Lincoln Alerts.

Make a Family Plan

• Talk with your family about what to do if you are not together during an emergency.
• Practice your plan at different times and places, like home, school, or work.
• Plan to check on neighbors and people who may need extra help.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Pack at least 4 weeks of food and water for every person and pet.
• Include a battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, dust mask, face coverings, plastic sheeting, duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties, wrench or pliers, manual can opener, local maps, and a cell phone with chargers and power banks.

Find more information and resources at:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Plan and Prepare Resources
• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Hazards: Earthquake
• Be Ready – Make a Plan
• Be Ready – Build a Kit
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Red Cross – How to Prepare for Emergencies
• Oregon Emergency Management – 2 Weeks Ready

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

###

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking volunteers to fill two openings on the county’s Planning Commission.

Terms for the positions are four years and expire Dec. 31, 2030.

The Planning Commission is a seven-member committee that makes recommendations to the council on land-use planning, zoning and development in unincorporated Clark County. The commission also makes recommendations on issues such as growth management, roads, public facilities, development regulations and applicable county ordinances.

To apply, send a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, Clark County Council Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Nov. 6, 2026.

Learn more about the Planning Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/planning-commission.

City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

On October 6th, the Milwaukie Police Department hosted an interagency sex buyer’s interdiction in the City of Milwaukie.  Using online applications and other internet based dating or similar websites, decoy Officers posing as individuals offering to meet for sex, were contacted by buyers looking to purchase sexual services in exchange for an agreed upon monetary compensation. Upon making the substantial step of arriving at an agreed location, buyers were arrested.

The goal of Milwaukie Police sex buyer’s missions is to disrupt the demand portion of this illegal activity. According to Safety Compass, a local non-profit organization working to “extend hope & navigational support for survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking”, from 2018 to the present, Safety Compass staff has had interactions with 1235 victims of sex trafficking in relation to 29,286 trafficking transactions. Of those victims, 606 were reported to be minors. Protecting victims, especially minor victims is the motivating purpose of disrupting demand in these illegal transactions.

The interagency team contacted six purchasers of sex over the five-hour operation and cited them for Commercial Sexual Solicitation. One male had an additional citation for possessing cocaine.

Some of the individuals receiving citations may be eligible to attend the Clackamas County “Sex Buyers Accountability and Diversion (SBAD)” academy at their own expense in lieu of charges or mandated by the court. SBAD is a partnership with Clackamas County Human Trafficking Multidisciplinary Team and the Clackamas County/Multnomah County District Attorney’s Offices. This instructional class is intended to present education to sex buyers on the community damage the industry leaves in its wake, along with sharing testimonies of victims and advocates to reduce demand for the purchase of victims of sex trafficking.  

The Milwaukie Police Department would like to thank our interagency partners, Sandy Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, West Linn Police Department and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Parole and Probation for their assistance in making this a successful sting.

If you or someone you know is involved in sex trafficking, help is available. The national  human trafficking hotline 888-373-7888 or text 233733  https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en or locally - Safety Compass survivor hotline (971) 235-0021  Safety Compass Advocates

Oregon joins in the celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) this October. It’s a time to celebrate the contributions people with disabilities make in workplaces and recognize businesses that recruit and hire employees with disabilities.
 

This year’s theme of “celebrating value and talent” is reflected in Oregon throughout the year in the countless ways people with disabilities bring value to their jobs and communities.
 

“Our communities and economy are stronger when the talents and strengths of people with disabilities are part of the workforce,” said Allison Enriquez, Oregon’s Employment First Coordinator. “Working is also a cornerstone to people’s independence, well-being and community connection.”
 

In Oregon, the employment rate for working-age people with disabilities increased about 10 percentage points between 2015 and 2023, from about 37.8% to 47.7%, according to the Center for Research on Disability. Despite this progress, a substantial employment gap remains: in 2023, 47.7% of Oregonians with disabilities ages 18 to 64 were employed, compared with 79.7% of Oregonians without disabilities.
 

“This progress speaks to the strong supports Oregon put in place to help people with disabilities enter and stay in the workforce,” Enriquez said. “However, there is still work to do. Oregon is committed to ensuring employment supports remain strong so everyone has access to reach their potential and fully participate in their communities.”

NDEAM webinar series

Partners who deliver employment services invite everyone to join a series of webinars in October to celebrate workplace successes and educate the community about resources and services available for job seekers with disabilities.
 

Webinars are scheduled Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Zoom. For details on each session and accessibility information, go to Oregon’s NDEAM event web page.

• Oct. 13 – Oregon as a Model Employer: Promoting employment and career advancement for people with disabilities in state and local government
   
• Oct. 20 – What is ableism and why it matters in the workplace
   
• Oct. 27 – Technology in employment: How assistive technology and AI can support people with disabilities at work
   
• Nov. 3 – Peer2Peer: An award-winning employment mentorship program for students with disabilities

These events are hosted by the Oregon’s Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Developmental Disabilities Services and Vocational Rehabilitation program, Oregon Commission for the Blind and the Oregon Department of Education.

Employment resources for people with disabilities

• Office of Developmental Disabilities Services has employment services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
   
• Vocational Rehabilitation helps people with all kinds of disabilities find and keep a job and advance in their careers.
   
• Oregon Commission for the Blind helps people with vision loss find and keep a job and advance in their careers.
   
• Ticket to Work is a free federal program for people who are blind or have a disability and receive Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income. People who are 18 to 64 years old and want to work may access this program to prepare for work and find a job.
   
• Employed Persons with Disabilities is a Medicaid program that helps people with disabilities go to work while keeping their Medicaid coverage.
   
• Oregon ABLE Savings Plan is a way people with disabilities can save for the future without the fear of losing needed government benefits.
   
• Free benefits counseling is available to answer job seekers’ questions about how working may affect their benefits.

Information on these programs is available on the ODHS web page “Get Help Finding a Job.”

HILLSBORO, Ore- October is Safe Sleep Awareness Month, and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office and the Washington County Child Abuse Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) are celebrating the five-year anniversary of a partnership with the national Cribs for Kids program. Since its inception in 2021, this program has helped provide free Cribette Kits and one-on-one education to more than 1,600 income-eligible families residing in Washington County.
 

Working in close partnership with the OHSU Doernbecher Injury Prevention Program, Washington County Maternal and Child Health, and other local hospitals, this program is designed to provide a free portable crib, infant sleep sack, and education for families in need. Public health or injury prevention professionals also provide safe sleep education in English or Spanish for eligible families.
 

The DA’s Office pursued this partnership to help prevent infant deaths in our community. In Oregon, about 40 babies die in their sleep every year, according to the Oregon Health Authority.
 

“Keeping kids safe and supporting families with this critical resource is a priority,” said Washington County DA Kevin Barton. “This program has saved lives and protected the most vulnerable members of our community.”
 

“An unsafe sleep environment is the leading cause of preventable injury and death in children under the age of one. That’s why we are so excited to partner with the Washington County District Attorney’s Office to provide families with these lifesaving resources,” said Adrienne Gallardo, Injury Prevention Program Manager at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
 

Hillsboro Medical Center & Doernbecher Injury Prevention Program also host monthly “Welcome Baby Safety Resource Showers” designed to educate families on infant safety and to distribute the Cribs for Kids safe sleep kits. This program is supported by grant funding provided by the Oregon Department of Justice’s Child Abuse Multidisciplinary Intervention (CAMI) grant.
 

For more information on this program or to apply for a Cribette Kit, please visit our website.
 

For more information about the safety resources provided through the Braner Family Safety Resource Center at Hillsboro Medical Center, please visit this website.

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) will meet in Springfield at the Springfield City Hall Library Room, 225 5th Street, and via online meeting on October 22 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda includes discussion of the Oregon Heritage Plan, partnerships that support the Laurel Grove Cemetery and publications about historic cemeteries. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for online access information.
 

The Eugene Masonic Cemetery visit will be October 23 at 11:00 a.m. Meet at the cemetery at  University Street and E 25^th Avenue.
 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.
 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0609 or erly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov">Kimberly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.