At 9:43 a.m. Wednesday morning Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported fire at B&R Auto Wrecking on Hwy 97 just north of Bend. Multiple 911 calls came in about a vehicle on fire at the wrecking yard next to the main building. Employees on the scene were able to move two burning cars away from the building to prevent it from catching fire. Responders arrived to find the two vehicles on fire with flames spreading to a nearby tire pile and into the grass along the southernmost property line bordering Four Seasons Mobile Home Park. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputies and first arriving firefighters were able to stop the grass fire from spreading, and the next arriving engines knocked the fire down within 10 minutes. An employee was treated on scene for a minor injury. Two vehicles bound for crushing and a pile of tires were the only losses.

The cause of the fire was accidental. The fire was caused when staff were dismantling a vehicle before crushing. As the gas tank was being drained for disposal of the fuel, a spark from an electric tool ignited the fumes and started the vehicle and adjacent material on fire. The fire spread to a pile of approximately 50 tires. Those tires burning caused the large plume of black smoke visible from the north end of Bend.

B&R Auto Wrecking follows State law for auto wrecking facilities that limit storage of materials and goods near dismantling processes and buildings. These rules came into effect after major auto wrecking fires in the Portland area caused significant fire and environmental damage in the past decade. B&R’s compliance with these rules and annual inspections with Bend Fire & Rescue prevented the piles of tires and combustibles from being too large to contain when firefighters arrived. The separation meant tanks of old oil, coolant, and gasoline were far enough away from the fire to prevent them from becoming involved and adding to the incident.

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 03, 2026) – A creative fan of Oregon’s favorite amusement park could land major bragging rights – and two season passes – by coming up with a name for the thrilling new drop tower ride coming to Oaks Park in 2027.

The park, which has been providing family fun on the banks of the Willamette River since 1905, will start construction this summer on its new drop tower ride. The Larson International ARM Park Model Super Shot Drop Tower will offer guests a breathtaking view of Portland before delivering a heart-pounding free-fall guaranteed to induce thrills and screams of excitement.

“Exhilarating thrill rides have always been a major draw for everyone who loves Oaks Park,” said Emily MacKay, Oaks Park’s marketing and events director. “When our new drop tower debuts in 2027, we’ll be turning up the fun even more. And to celebrate that, we want to let fans of Oaks Park come up with the best names they can.”

The naming contest is underway now on the Oaks Park website. Contestants simply fill out a short online form, where they can submit up to four creative, clever and memorable names for the tower. Entries need to be submitted by June 14, 2026, and the winner will be notified by email by July 31, 2026.

In addition to landing the honor of naming what’s expected to be the tallest drop tower in the Pacific Northwest – and the most intense thrill ride ever added to Oaks Park – the winner will also receive two 2027 Season Passes to the park. The passes offer unlimited rides every standard operating day of the season, 10% off food, beverages and gift shop purchases, and exclusive special offers.

For more information about the new Drop Tower coming to Oaks Park in 2027 and to enter the contest, visit Oakspark.com.

On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the Corvallis Police Department was honored to present two local community members with the Corvallis Police Department Partnership Award for their quick actions which helped save a life in April.

In the early afternoon hours of April 20, 2026, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call regarding a motor vehicle which had crashed off the roadway. Bystanders John Schneider and Megan Gregory-Goplen sprang into action and quickly realized the crash was due to a medical event suffered by the driver. With the guidance of 9-1-1 Telecommunicator Anna Schulz, Schneider and Gregory-Goplen began CPR efforts on the unconscious driver until emergency responders could arrive.

“In moments of crisis, most people will experience fear and uncertainty,” shared Chief of Police Jason Harvey. “The individuals we are honoring today chose to act. Faced with a life-threatening emergency, they stepped forward, provided CPR, and gave someone in our community a fighting chance at life.”

To make the presentation of the awards even more special, the driver, John Short, whose life was saved, and his wife, Carolyn, were in attendance with friends and family. It was the first time since the incident in April that those involved were in the same room together.

In addition to the Partnership Awards, Chief Harvey also presented 9-1-1 Telecommunicator Schulz with a Lifesaving Award for her calm and professional CPR instructions, as well as gathering critical information for first responders about the scene. Officer Joel Hodgkinson, who took over CPR until paramedics could arrive, was presented with his own Lifesaving Award last month.

John Schneider could not be in attendance, but was recognized publicly for his valiant efforts to save a life, and will receive his award at a later date. 

Editors: Find video clips of Sarah Wylie discussing SB 1571 on OHA’s Media Resources page.

June 3, 2026

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

Oregon law expands ‘tobacco products’ definition to prevent underage sales, youth nicotine addiction

Oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, other emerging nicotine products included under Oregon’s tobacco regulations starting June 5

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding Oregon’s 3,700 tobacco retailers that a new state law expanding the definition of tobacco products takes effect June 5.

People must be 21 to purchase tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems in Oregon and nationwide. Senate Bill 1571, signed into law in March, expands the state’s definition of tobacco products to include oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, gum and other nicotine products, regardless of whether they are naturally or synthetically made.

Nicotine pouches are the fastest-growing product on the U.S. tobacco market. In 2024, oral nicotine pouches became the second most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. middle and high school students.

The revision brings Oregon’s tobacco regulations in line with federal law to reduce youth access to addictive nicotine products, many of which are sold in flavors marketed as cool mint, citrus burst, refreshing chill and wild berry. A national study showed that 80% of youth who ever used a tobacco product started with a flavored product.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Oregon, accounting for 8,000 deaths annually. Sarah Wylie, manager of the Oregon Tobacco Retail License Program at OHA's Public Health Division, said “SB 1571 is a significant step in responding to the shifting tobacco retail landscape and the emergence of new and addictive nicotine products.”

“As the tobacco industry continues to introduce these products designed to appeal to new consumers, public health policies must evolve to keep pace and ensure communities are protected from emerging health risks,” Wylie said.  

Between January and July 2025, OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program conducted a statewide tobacco retail assessment to examine tobacco availability, advertising, marketing and promotion across 1,147 Oregon retail outlets, including convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores, among others.

The assessment found that 65% of tobacco retailers offered price promotions, including 43% promoting oral nicotine products. One product, Zyn, had the lowest advertised price of any tobacco or nicotine product assessed, averaging just $5.60. The low cost is especially concerning as oral nicotine pouches continue to grow in popularity among youth, who are often the most price-sensitive consumers.

The new law takes important steps toward reducing youth nicotine addiction and reducing tobacco-driven health inequities. Nearly 90% of people who smoke start before they turn 18, and teenagers’ developing brains are vulnerable to the highly addictive nicotine in tobacco products.

Moving forward, oral nicotine products will be regulated similarly to cigarettes and inhalant delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes or vapes.

OHA encourages Oregon tobacco retailers to review age verification and ID-checking procedures with employees to ensure compliance with the updated law before it takes effect. OHA and local public health authorities will continue to conduct undercover compliance checks, which now include enforcement of the updated law.

Retailers are urged to visit OHA's website for tobacco retailers for a training manual, fact sheets, compliance checklists and other educational resources to help them stay in compliance with Oregon tobacco sales laws. For questions about OHA compliance inspections and enforcement, visit healthoregon.org/tobaccoretailsales, email acco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov">Tobacco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov, or call: 971-673-2283.

Quitting tobacco makes a difference – and quitting is different for everyone. That’s why there are a variety of free options across Oregon to help you succeed.

• You can get free counseling with a Quit Coach and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) sent to your door at no cost:
  • Texting “Ready” (English) or “Listo” (Spanish) to 21586
  • Calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-855-DEJELO-YA (Spanish)
  • Visiting the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line at quitnow.net/oregon
  • Downloading the free “Quit for Life” app on your mobile device
• You can ask your local pharmacist if they offer counseling and treatment on site. Pharmacists that offer counseling and treatment on site will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan and provide follow-up to see how the treatment plan works.
• You can also learn how to quit in your own way, with or without the help of a coach or pharmacist, by visiting https://smokefreeoregon.com/im-ready-to-quit.

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Portland, OR — June 3, 2026 — As federal USDA funding reductions threaten a significant portion of the fresh food distributed through Oregon’s emergency food system, local nonprofits are mobilizing community members to help fill the gap through a collaborative seasonal campaign.

Portland Fruit Tree Project is officially launching its 2026 harvest season—the organization’s 20th season of community harvesting and food redistribution—inviting residents across Portland and surrounding communities to register fruit and nut trees, berry bushes, and vines for harvesting.

Since 2006, Portland Fruit Tree Project has connected homeowners with volunteers to harvest thousands of pounds of fruit that might otherwise go unused, redistributing it through local food access organizations and mutual aid networks. The Portland Fruit Tree Project’s 2026 Urban Orchard Harvest Season is funded in part by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), supporting equitable access to fresh, locally grown food while reducing food waste and strengthening climate-resilient community food systems.

“Every year we see how much abundance already exists in our neighborhoods,” said Heather Keisler Fornes, the Executive Director of Portland Fruit Tree Project. “As we enter our 20th season, our staff and board are committed to making this our largest and most impactful harvest season yet—ensuring more fresh fruit reaches more Portlanders than ever before.”

Also added into the gleaning programming for its second year, the Grow To Donate program is off to a strong start with hundreds of pounds already donated and pledged to Portland-based pantries. Led by Portland Fruit Tree Project and Lift Urban Portland, this program encourages Portland residents to donate excess garden produce, glean produce at metro area farm sites, and register fruit trees for community harvests during the 2026 growing season.

“We know the power of community in solving local challenges,” added Stephanie Barr, Executive Director of Lift Urban Portland. “Grow to Donate is about turning gardens into solutions and fresh food into shared resilience.”

According to Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon and regional food system advocates, recent federal funding cuts are projected to reduce millions of pounds of food available to Oregon food banks and pantries this year, with fresh produce among the hardest-hit categories. These reductions come at a time when food pantry usage across Oregon remains near historic highs, increasing pressure on local organizations to source nutritious food through community-based solutions.

Grow to Donate offers residents a simple, accessible way to contribute fresh produce directly to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

How Community Members Can Participate

Gardeners & CSA Members
Residents with home gardens, raised beds, allotments, or produce shares can pledge to donate surplus fruits and vegetables throughout the growing season. Even small donations help pantry partners, who collaborate to coordinate distribution.

Fruit Tree Owners
People with fruit or nut trees, vines, or shrubs that regularly produce more than they can use are encouraged to register their plants with Portland Fruit Tree Project. Volunteer harvest crews led by staff and trained volunteer leads help pick and distribute produce to community organizations serving households across the region.

Volunteers Needed
Community members can also support the community harvest campaign by volunteering at www.portlandfruit.org as harvesters, produce sorters, delivery drivers, and outreach ambassadors. Volunteer harvesters always take home as much as they wish to, and the rest goes to pantries through Portland Fruit Tree Project and Grow to Donate distribution networks.

To take action against food waste and increase access to fresh produce:

• Register your fruit tree(s) with the Portland Tree Project for larger harvests of excess fruit.

• Sign up as a volunteer to harvest in backyards, harvest at community orchards, and glean produce on local farms. 

• Pledge your excess garden produce through Grow to Donate for self-harvesting and drop off (pick up may also available on a limited basis).

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union is encouraging auto buyers in Oregon and southwest Washington to carefully evaluate financing options as a new report shows that affordability pressures continue to shape the car-buying market.

Experian’s Q1 2026 State of the Automotive Finance Market Report found more than one-third of auto loans now exceed six years as more consumers stretch repayment terms to manage higher vehicle prices and monthly payments. The report also found average loan amounts, monthly payments and loan terms all increased year-over-year, while refinance activity grew as borrowers searched for ways to lower monthly costs.

“Consumers are increasingly focused on lowering auto loan costs in the short term as interest rates and vehicle prices remain high,” said Meredith Bureau, Hillsdale branch manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We encourage buyers to also consider the long-term cost of financing a vehicle by comparing financing options, understanding how loan terms impact total interest paid and choosing a car that fits comfortably within their budget.”

Below are OnPoint’s tips for helping people in Oregon and southwest Washington navigate today’s auto market:

1. Avoid stretching loan terms too far. Longer loan terms can make higher-priced vehicles feel more affordable upfront, but they increase total borrowing costs over time. For example, financing a $40,000 vehicle at 7% interest over 84 months instead of 60 months could add nearly $4,700 in additional interest over the life of the loan. Focus on the total cost of the loan and consider a lower-priced vehicle or larger down payment when possible.
2. Get pre-approved before shopping. Knowing how much you can afford before visiting a dealership can help you shop with confidence and stick to cars that are within your budget. Pre-approval also provides a clearer picture of the interest rate and loan terms you may qualify for.
3. Know your budget before visiting the dealership. Buyers should also factor in insurance, fuel, maintenance and registration costs as loan amounts and monthly payments rise. AAA’s 2025 Your Driving Costs study found the average annual cost of owning and operating a new vehicle was $11,577 per year or about $965 per month.
4. Consider and compare financing and refinancing options. Experian’s report found that consumers who refinanced in Q1 2026 lowered their average interest rate from 10.29% to 8.05%, saving an average of $81 per month. Those who refinanced with credit unions saved an average of $101 per month, compared to $60 for those who refinanced with banks.
5. Check your credit ahead of time. Interest rates remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, making credit scores especially important for buyers seeking lower financing costs. The Federal Reserve reported average interest rates on 60-month new car loans remained above 7% entering 2025.  Even a 1% difference in the interest rate can translate into thousands of dollars in additional interest paid over the life of a loan.

“Comparing financing options, understanding interest costs and choosing a vehicle that fits both your budget and lifestyle can help you feel more financially confident long after leaving the dealership,” Bureau added. “Taking time to plan ahead and understand the full cost of ownership can help buyers avoid financial stress down the road.”

OnPoint offers auto loans for new and used vehicles, refinancing options and educational resources to help consumers make informed borrowing decisions. For more information about OnPoint auto loans, visit www.onpointcu.com/auto-loans.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Join us for a nationwide livestream event exploring democracy’s evolving story

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, Brookwood Library will host a livestream of TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures, a daylong symposium featuring 15+ original TED Talks focused on the future of democracy.

Streaming live from Philadelphia leading up to America’s 250th birthday celebrations, this landmark event convenes bold thinkers and civic leaders to share ideas and solutions designed to inform and inspire.

We’re proud to serve as a host site and bring this important civic moment to our local community.

Event Details

Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 8 am – 3 pm
Hillsboro Public Library, Brookwood Library Event Room

This hybrid event is a come-and-go format designed to fit your schedule. 

Free and open to the public. No registration required.

Translation and interpretation services are available upon request, with a notice period of 72 hours. Call 503-615-6500.  Requests submitted with less than 72 hours' notice cannot be guaranteed.

What to Expect

• Livestream of 15+ brand-new TED Talks from the stage in Philadelphia
• A welcoming space for shared civic engagement
• Opportunities for reflection and conversation
• Local speakers

TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures Speakers

Listen to some of the world’s brightest thinkers, offering brand-new TED Talks designed to challenge perspectives and inspire action.

Topics will range from media literacy and race to the intersection of AI and democracy, economic equity and more.

Speakers include:

• Jon Alexander, Citizen Futurist
• Terrill “Terry” Bouricius, Recovering Politician
• Michael Dimock, President, Pew Research Center
• Aria Florant, Reparations Catalyst
• Jen Golbeck, AI Ethicist
  
  Full list of speakers

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Through a collaboration with Visit Philadelphia and the American Library Association, and sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts, libraries across the country are hosting satellite livestream events — expanding access to these critical conversations and fostering local engagement nationwide.

On Tuesday, June 2, 2026 around 3:15 p.m. Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported train on fire just south of Baker Road near Deschutes River Woods. 911 callers from Morningstar School and BNSF reported fire coming from the lead locomotive. Fire crews arrived to find smoke and flames on top of the locomotive where the braking system is housed. Fire extinguishers and water were used to extinguish the fire quickly. No injuries were reported.

The engineers on board were heading north on BNSF’s line from Klamath Falls when they felt a jolt on the train before seeing smoke. They were able to quickly stop the train before entering town to prevent blocking traffic lanes and prevented a brush fire from taking off by coming to rest in an area where a fire break had been created by previous wildfire mitigation efforts. No cargo or other locomotives were threatened by the fire. BNSF stopped all north/south traffic in the area until the damaged locomotive could be removed, and the train could be moved to a central Bend staging yard. Cheyenne Rd was closed for a time during the incident to allow firefighting hoses to be deployed to the locomotive.

This unique response highlights the various aspects of firefighting that crews need to be prepared for. By using the expertise of the train crews and past experiences, the fire was quickly stopped while ensuring safety for everyone on scene. Locomotives create immense amounts of electricity to move the heavy trains and that same electricity makes fighting fires on them extremely dangerous.

This incident also highlighted a community effort in Deschutes River Woods led by the neighborhood association, Bend Fire & Rescue, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office (OSFM) and in party by BNSF. A grant from OSFM was awarded in 2024 to help reduce the vegetation in and around the large subdivision. Large areas of open land on both sides of the railroad tracks were mechanically mowed to remove overgrown brush and create a fire break along the eastern edge of the neighborhood. This was done to prevent the spread of wildfire into or out of the neighborhood. This cleared area not only provided a safe working zone for firefighters - it also reduced the risk greatly that the fire in this train could have spread to the neighborhood. This is an example of where creating defensible space around your home and neighborhood can help protect your home from more than just wildfires. Learn more about creating defensible space on your property at bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

June 3, 2026 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 
Contact: Paige Parker, Public Relations Manager 
Oregon Community Foundation, pparker@oregoncf.org

OREGON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION INVESTS MORE THAN $1.5 MILLION TO ADVANCE EDUCATION ACROSS OREGON 

Grants boost Black Student Success, rural communities, child care and STEM education

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Community Foundation is investing more than $1.5 million in education initiatives designed to strengthen student success, expand STEM learning opportunities and support the child care workforce.
 

The investments include grants supporting Black Student Success programs across Oregon; funding for Oregon’s regional STEM Hubs and support for statewide scholarships that help child care providers access training and professional development.

Black Student Success Network Organization Share $480,000  

Oregon Community Foundation awarded $480,000 in grants across the Black Student Success Network, a statewide coalition of more than two dozen Black-led organizations.

The network — slated to expand this year — brings together organizations that are advancing equitable educational opportunities for Black students through collaboration, shared learning and community-rooted strategies. Leaders from participating organizations meet regularly to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and develop statewide solutions that support Black students from early learning through postsecondary education and career pathways. 

The Black Student Success Network was formed six years ago and has expanded its reach into rural communities in Eastern and Southern Oregon while continuing to strengthen partnerships statewide. 

“We’re pleased to continue to support organizations in the Network as they elevate best practices that eliminate disparities affecting Black students and forge statewide partnerships on behalf of improving educational outcomes,” said John Chang, Director of Culturally Responsive Programs.

Chang noted that the grants come as the Black Student Success Program welcomes a new leader, with Dorian Smith joining OCF as the Senior Program Officer.  

“Dorian brings 15 years of experience advancing Black student success and statewide education equity initiatives at Oregon State University,” Chang said. “He is widely respected by education leaders across the state for his ability to build strong partnerships spanning K–12 and post-secondary education to meaningfully serve urban and rural students.”  

Smith said: “It is an honor to serve in this role and work with the state’s most innovative programs as they improve educational equity and academic performance in their communities.”  

Black Student Success Network organizations include:

BASE Oregon 

Beaverton Black Peoples Union 

Black Educational Achievement Movement 

Black Parent Initiative 

Black Southern Oregon Alliance 

Black United Fund of Oregon 

Center for Black Student Excellence 

Hermiston Cultural Awareness Coalition 

HOLLA Mentors 

Oregon State University Foundation 

KairosPDX 

KinCultivate 

Self Enhancement, Inc. 

African Youth & Community Organization 

Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators 

Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center 

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization 

The Father's Group 

Youth Organized and United to Help (Y.O.U.T.H.) 

Elevate Oregon 

Bridge-Pamoja 

REAP Inc. 

Alumni Association of the University of Oregon 

A Composer’s Heart 

Albina Head Start 

OCF Invests Nearly $1 Million in Oregon STEM Hubs

The Oracle STEM Education Grants Fund of Oregon Community Foundation awarded $975,000 in grants to Oregon’s regional STEM Hubs, with each Hub receiving a $75,000 grant and targeted technical assistance support.  

As a statewide network of regional partnerships, Oregon’s STEM Hubs connect schools, industry and community organizations to provide hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math learning opportunities. The Hubs focus on expanding access for students who have historically been underserved, including rural students, students from low-income families, students of color and girls.

“The grants prioritize long-term sustainability and ecosystem strengthening across the Hub network,” said Belle Cantor, Senior Program Officer for Education and Youth Development. “Funding will help regional STEM Hubs build organizational capacity, strengthen community partnerships and expand donor support to ensure students across Oregon continue to have access to career-connected STEM learning opportunities.” 

OCF Supports Child Care Workforce Through Betty Gray Scholarship Program 

The Betty Gray Endowment Fund at Oregon Community Foundation also awarded $100,000 to the Oregon Center for Career Development in Childhood Care and Education in support of the Betty Gray Statewide Scholarship for Child Care Provider Training and Certification.

For nearly 25 years, OCF’s Early Childhood Program has prioritized professional development for Oregon’s early care and education workforce. Since 2002, the scholarship program has helped thousands of child care providers access training, coursework, credentials and professional development opportunities that strengthen Oregon’s early childhood education system. 

The scholarship program has served more than 13,500 participants statewide. Nearly half of scholarship applicants identify as Latine, and the program also prioritizes outreach to Black, Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander educators, rural providers, immigrant and refugee educators and family child care providers. 

The program supports early-career educators and helps providers working in licensed or regulated settings access conferences, coursework, credentialing opportunities and other professional development resources that improve the quality of care available to Oregon children and families. 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org. 

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MEDFORD, Ore – The Bureau of Land Management is asking the public for input on a proposed forest management project to increase wildfire protection in the Applegate and Lake Creek areas in Jackson County. The Douglas fir Mortality Complex Environmental Assessment proposes salvage timber sales to remove dead and dying trees, as well as thinning potential fire fuels.

“This project would make the forest—and the timber it could produce in the future—more resilient to fire, drought, and insects,” said Lauren Brown, Ashland Field Manager.

The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937. Selling the salvaged timber provides revenue to the 18 O&C counties, and helps offset the cost of the fire mitigation work.

Today, the BLM started a 30-day public comment period to receive public input on the environmental assessment. To stay up to date on the project and to leave a comment, the public should visit the BLM NEPA Register at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/Project-Home/?id=468d6bf4-a7f2-f011-8407-001dd80bcf93

-BLM-

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands (CFF) will meet virtually on Wednesday, June 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Legacy and Stewardship Program Sub-Workgroup and CFF Charter
• Adaptive Management Program update
• Fire update
• Board of Forestry update
• Grant Program update
• Compliance Monitoring update

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. 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 503-949-4785 or by email at .family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov">committee.for.family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

PHOTO: Early Childhood Education classroom at the Sylvania Campus.

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College’s Child Development Center is moving forward with plans to expand early learning access for local families through a new partnership opportunity with Multnomah County’s Preschool for All Program.

PCC's Child Development Center is planning broad expansion of its early learning programming for the 2026-27 school year after conversations with Preschool for All about increasing preschool capacity. As part of that expansion, PCC intends to add 20 Preschool for All seats, including 16 seats in the center's upcoming licensed outdoor nature-based preschool program. PCC is also preparing to launch a new infant classroom with PFA infant/toddler support funding as part of its continued investment in early learning services for families.

This creates a pathway for PCC to serve more children, strengthen its early childhood education programs and secure approximately $400,000 in ongoing support. The $400,000 in funding, which comes entirely from Preschool for All, includes per-child allocations, startup funds and infant/toddler stabilization resources.

“This is an exciting opportunity to expand access to high-quality early learning while strengthening the long-term sustainability of the Child Development Center,” said Velvet Cooley, director of PCC’s Child Development Center. “By partnering with Preschool for All, PCC can respond directly to the needs of local families and create new learning opportunities for both children and college students preparing for careers in early childhood education.”

With the addition of 20 new seats, PCC will have a total of 40, allowing the center to offer free preschool to eligible children who live in Multnomah County and will be 3 or 4 years old by Sept. 1. 

The expansion aligns with PCC’s Child Development Center’s ongoing work to become a licensed outdoor nature-based provider. Outdoor nature-based programs became officially licensable in Oregon through House Bill 2717, passed in 2023, and are regulated by the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care under specialized rules. Unlike traditional programs, these programs use natural outdoor environments as the primary classroom, supported by trained teachers and intentional planning around weather, wildlife, site-specific hazards and risk-benefit play.

“Preschool for All is entering its biggest year of growth yet with over 7,000 available seats. We are proud to partner with Portland Community College to open the first certified outdoor preschool in the Portland metropolitan area,” said Danisa McLean, director of Multnomah County’s Preschool & Early Learning Division. “The families we serve value the variety of learning environments Preschool for All offers, and this partnership gives children a unique opportunity to learn and grow in nature while expanding access to free early childhood education.”

The PCC program is set to be the first certified outdoor preschool in the Portland metropolitan area. The model will also provide PCC Early Childhood Education students with hands-on experience in a fully outdoor learning environment, giving practicum students the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world practice in child development, play-based learning and nature-based education.

The Child Development Center, located at PCC’s Sylvania Campus, serves as both an early learning environment for children and a training facility for PCC Early Childhood Education students. The center is licensed by the State of Oregon and provides students opportunities to apply early childhood best practices under the supervision of mentor teachers. 

For more information, visit https://www.pcc.edu/child-care/development-center/

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 57,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Click for Images and Captions

Seasonal favorites return including Welcome the Night, sawmill demonstrations and daily wildlife encounters

BEND, OR — Summer is in full swing at the High Desert Museum, with daily wildlife encounters, immersive exhibitions, living history experiences and special events continuing through Labor Day. Signature programs include the popular Raptors of the Desert Sky flight demonstration, along with daily talks, historic demonstrations and family-friendly evening events. Museum membership provides added value all season long with discounts on many programs and events.

Raptors of the Desert Sky
Daily at 11:30 a.m.

Presented each day at 11:30 a.m., the popular program invites visitors to experience hawks, owls, falcons and even turkey vultures soaring directly overhead in a natural amphitheater nestled among towering ponderosa pines.

As the birds fly from perch to perch, a Museum expert narrates the action, sharing the hunting strategies and natural behaviors of these spectacular birds of prey, as well as what we can do to help preserve them in the wild.

The program takes place weather and air quality permitting. The Museum website will be updated to reflect any time changes, including earlier start times during periods of high temperatures to ensure the birds’ wellbeing.

Tickets are separate from Museum entry ($8 general admission; free for ages 2 and under; members receive 20% discount) and are sold at Admissions for that day’s program until 11 a.m. Tickets are available in-person only and often sell out before 10 a.m. Visitors are strongly encouraged to arrive when the Museum opens at 9 a.m. to secure tickets.

Raptors of the Desert Sky is made possible by Fly Redmond, Avion Water Company and Bigfoot Beverages. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/raptors-of-the-desert-sky.

Desert Dwellers
Daily at 3 p.m. through Monday, September 7

Visitors can meet not one, not two, but three mammals in the popular Desert Dwellers talk at 3 p.m., featuring a beaver, skunk, or porcupine. They can also learn about wolves, raptors and other High Desert species in other talks. Daily talks are free with admission. Talk details are at highdesertmuseum.org/daily-schedule.

High Desert Ranger Station
Daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Monday, September 7

The historic High Desert Ranger Station is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of early U.S. Forest Service rangers in the West. Relocated in December 2024 from the front of the Museum to a new home along the Fire in the Forest trail, the ranger station invites guests to step inside a piece of regional history surrounded by the landscape it was built to serve.

Constructed east of the Sierra Nevada in 1933, the station was moved to the High Desert Museum in 2008 through a partnership with the Pacific Northwest Forest Service Association of retired Forest Service employees, known as the Old Smokeys. Today, Old Smokeys and Museum volunteers welcome visitors into the cabin to share stories of wildfire prevention, forest stewardship, and life in the early days of the Forest Service. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/high-desert-ranger-station.

Sawmill Demonstrations
June 21, July 24, and August 27 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Visitors can also experience the sights, sounds, and raw power of early timber work during special live demonstrations of the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill on June 21, July 24 and August 27. From noon to 3 pm, the massive sawmill roars to life as its enormous blade cuts through thick Oregon logs, offering a rare look at the machinery that helped shape communities across the region in the early 1900s. The demonstrations are included with Museum admission. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/lazinka-sawmill.

High Desert Ranch
Daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Monday, September 7

Visitors can step into the rhythms of ranch life at the High Desert Ranch, now open daily from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm throughout the summer. Nestled among the Museum’s pine forest, the ranch brings the stories of early High Desert homesteads to life through historic buildings, gardens, animals, and hands-on, interactive experiences. Museum volunteers and staff in period dress educate guests about the buildings and daily life in the early 1900s. Learn more about the ranch at highdesertmuseum.org/1904-high-desert-ranch.

Welcome the Night
Wednesday, July 15 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Visitors are invited to celebrate sundown with the return of Welcome the Night on July 15. The event takes place after hours from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., marking the transition between day and night when nocturnal wildlife stirs. Participants are encouraged to bring a headlamp or flashlight and learn how a dark night sky free from light pollution is critical for wildlife.

The family-friendly event includes telescope tours, insect discoveries, bat detecting, a wildlife encounter, arts and crafts, face painting, food and drinks for purchase, raffle prizes and more. Tickets for adults and children (ages 3 and older) are $10. Children 2 and younger are free. Museum members receive 20% discount. Learn more and reserve tickets at highdesertmuseum.org/welcomethenight26.

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration
Daily through January 3, 2027

For those too-hot summer days, visitors should keep in mind the indoor art exhibitions and galleries. Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration is an immersive and interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey of history, science, and geology. Listen to the rumble of a volcano as it towers in the center of the gallery, play a game of “floor is lava,” and discover the stories and the technology behind the rumbling giants among us.

Nearby, visitors can discover the bold murals, sculptures, and hand-drawn animations of artist Miguel Almeida in his exhibition, Las Manos que dan de Comer (The Hands That Feed). Listen to the sounds of the fields and the people who work the land and harvest the fresh fruits and vegetables bound for local markets and dinner tables. Discover more about the Museum’s exhibitions at highdesertmuseum.org/exhibitions.

Art in the West
July 18 through October 2

On July 18, the Museum opens its annual Art in the West juried exhibition and silent auction. The exhibition celebrates the landscapes, wildlife, people, cultures and history of the High Desert. More than 120 works will be on display at the Museum, blanketing the walls with photographs, oil paintings, sculptures, acrylics, and more. Learn more about the 2026 Art in the West at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw.

Plan your visit to the High Desert Museum at highdesertmuseum.org.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

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Date: Wed, June 24th, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_june_24_menopause/

Menopause is becoming a buzzword! How do we separate the science from sensationalism?

Find out in this fascinating tour through the world of hormone fluctuations, ovarian aging, and medical interventions. We’ll cover: 

• Perimenopause vs menopause
• The impacts of menopause vs the effects of getting older
• Why hormone therapy went from favored to feared overnight, and what we’ve learned since
• How menopause affects our risks for chronic diseases
• Hormones: good for long-term health? Some safer than others? 
• What non-hormonal therapies are there?

Christina Cameli (she/her) is a Certified Nurse-Midwife and a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is the owner of Menopause Northwest, LLC,

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet on Tuesday, June 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the Department of State Lands building in Salem.

Agenda items the Land Board will consider include:

• Approve the sale of 80 acres of state-owned forestland in Coos County to the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve for $780,000.
  The acquisition, funded through a federal grant, will allow the Reserve to manage the property for long-term research, education, recreation, and conservation. The sale will also generate revenue for the Common School Fund while converting low-value forestland into connected habitat.
   
• Approve the sale of 65 acres of filled lands on Hayden Island in Multnomah County to the Oregon Department of Transportation for $1.3 million.
  The property will be used to help satisfy mitigation requirements for the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program.
   
• Begin the rulemaking process to update the Department of State Lands’ State Agency Coordination Program.
  These updates are necessary to ensure agency rules and programs related to land use comply with the statewide planning goals and remain compatible with local comprehensive plans.
   
• Begin the rulemaking process to expand public use restrictions on approximately 50 acres of state-owned lands in the Sandy River Delta to support conservation and protection efforts.
  Existing restrictions in OAR 141-088 on camping and open fires apply only to the beds and banks of the Sandy River. This rulemaking would expand those restrictions to the surrounding state-owned lands and prohibit overnight camping year-round and open fires from May through November. An emergency closure is currently in place.
   
• Authorize the Department of State Lands Director to submit and certify the Agency Request Budget.
   
• Approve the Oregon Department of Forestry’s proposed 2027-29 budget for management of certified Common School Fund forestlands.
   
• Approve three permanent easements for existing bridges in Clatsop and Tillamook counties.

The Land Board will also hear an update on the Department’s proposed 2027-29 policy option packages as well as the Department’s actions related to the 1000 Road Parcel in the Elliott State Research Forest.
 

Meeting Details and Agenda

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Department of State Lands

Land Board Room

775 Summer St. NE, Salem

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 (in person, by video, or phone) 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, June 8.

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.

Visitors are not permitted to bring backpacks, bags, or large purses into the building prior to, during, or following Land Board meetings. Purses, medical bags, and diaper bags are permitted, but may be subject to inspection by the Oregon State Police.

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.

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www.oregon.gov/dsl

The Willamette River Water Coalition (WRWC) Board Meeting will be held Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 4:45 p.m.

This meeting is only available via phone or the web. It will not be held at a physical location. If you wish to join this virtual meeting, please email ine.desau@tvwd.org">katherine.desau@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3078 by 12:00 p.m. on June 9, 2026. 

The Board meeting agenda packet and additional information regarding the WRWC are available on the website: https://willametteriver.org

Annual CORA Regatta back at Cullaby Lake​ 

Boat ramp and water temporarily closed  
Saturday, June 20 and Sunday June 21 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

CLATSOP COUNTY, OR — The Columbia Outboard Racing Association will host the 43rd Annual Cullaby Lake Regatta at Cullaby Lake County Park on Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, 2026. 

The boat ramp and racecourse on Cullaby Lake will be closed to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. 

The races are free for the public to view from the park, which will also be open for picnicking and other activities. A $5 day-use parking fee applies for County Park entry. 

For more information, visit Clatsop County Parks. 

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The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Monday, June 22, from 8:35 a.m. to 2:35 p.m., with a non-public Executive Session from 1:05 p.m. to 2:05 p.m. This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_6_22_2026.pdf

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

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When: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6

Where: Curtin Creek Community Park, 12603 NE 72nd Avenue, Vancouver

What: The media is invited to join Clark County Public Works in celebrating the ribbon cutting of Clark County’s newest park, Curtin Creek Community Park.   

Event agenda

• 10:30 a.m. – Ceremony begins
• 11:10 a.m. – Ribbon cutting
• 11:15 a.m. – Activities begin

Clark County staff and local leaders will be available for interviews after the scheduled activities conclude at 11:15 a.m.

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

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

Learn more about the park at clark.wa.gov/public-works/curtin-creek-community-park.            

On May 16, 2026, Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) detectives began investigating a sexual assault case involving 53-year-old Jacob Joaquin Mandes. Sr. Detectives with the Astoria Police Department reached out after getting information that Mandes admitted to a family member that he had sexually assaulted a child in Cornelius.

WCSO Violent Crimes Unit detectives developed probable cause to arrest Mandes for numerous crimes that occurred over the past 10 years. Working with Astoria Police, the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, detectives had Mandes arrested the same day the report was made. On May 20, a Washington County grand jury then indicted Mandes for the following crimes:

• Rape in the first degree (2 counts)
• Sodomy in the first degree (2 counts)
• Sodomy in the second degree (2 counts)
• Unlawful sexual penetration in the second degree (2 counts)
• Sexual abuse in the second degree (11 counts)

A Washington County judge ordered Mandes held without the possibility of release while the case is pending. Additional charges are possible as the case continues.

Based on the investigation to date, detectives believe there may be additional victims. Mandes has lived or worked in Washington, Columbia, and Clatsop counties in the past. His address history includes Cornelius, Hillsboro, Astoria, and Vernonia.

If you would like to speak with detectives, please call 503-846-2500 and reference case 50-26-6744.

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Baker City, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today after stealing his clients’ shares of stocks, selling them, and transferring the proceeds into his personal bank account for almost 17 years, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Jeffrey Thomas Higgins, 54, pleaded guilty to investment advisor fraud.

According to court documents, from December 2007 through June 2024, Higgins worked as an investment adviser in Baker City. To entice investors, Higgins lied, falsely claiming he purchased stocks on their behalf at deep discounts when he actually purchased the stocks at market value. Higgins then sold the stocks without the investors’ knowledge and stole the proceeds from the sales – transferring the money to his personal bank account.

To keep the scheme going, Higgins created fictitious annual statements that exaggerated profits. Statements reflecting the true costs of stock purchases were mailed directly to a post office box controlled by Higgins. As a result of Higgins’ misappropriation of shares, at least fourteen investors suffered losses totaling at least $1.6 million.

Higgins faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on December 7, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Higgins has agreed to pay over $1.6 million in restitution.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan Chinwuba and Andrew T. Ho are prosecuting the case.

# # #

Salem, Ore. – For months, no tickets matched the winning numbers for Oregon's Game Megabucks and the jackpot continued to build to $11.1 million. But on April 13, after eight months without a win, two tickets matched all six numbers. 

One ticket was sold at US Market 180, located at 1709 Hill Street SE in Albany. It’s the first jackpot win for co-owners Rupinder Kaur and Parveen Sidhu, who earn a bonus check of $56,000 for selling the winning ticket. 

Kaur said her daughter works in the store and sold the winning ticket to one of their regular customers, who was excited about the big win. 

“She sold it and was also working when he scanned it in the store,” said Kaur. “She said to the customer, ‘Did you check your Megabucks ticket? Maybe you are the winner? Let’s find out together.’” 

The store has been an Oregon Lottery retailer since 2007. Kaur said they plan to use some of the bonus money to make upgrades, including adding a cooler for fresh food and upgrading their fountain soda machine to offer more options.

The second winning ticket was sold at the 7-Eleven store at 11111 SW Capitol Highway in Portland. That store also received a $56,000 bonus and the winner has claimed their prize.

Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world. In 2025, a Eugene man was the winner of an $8.1 million Megabucks jackpot. The jackpot resets to $1 million after someone wins. 

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of a drawing to claim their prize. 

Media can access photos from today's celebration at the US Market 180 store in Albany at this link. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public schools, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

RELEASE DATE:         June 2, 2026

Gresham, Ore.—The Gresham Police Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Don Livingston to Assistant Chief. Livingston took the Oath of Office today and formally assumed his new role within the department.

Assistant Chief Livingston began his law enforcement career in 1996 with the Medford Police Department. In 1998, he joined the Portland Police Bureau, where he served in a variety of assignments and leadership positions until his retirement in 2023. In 2024, he joined the Gresham Police Department, bringing nearly three decades of law enforcement experience.

As commander of the Special Operations Division, Livingston has led investigations, the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT), the Crisis Negotiation Team, K-9, drones, and other specialized units.

Throughout his career, Livingston has served in the Training Division, Gang Enforcement Team, Special Emergency Reaction Team, and as SWAT Commander. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Oregon and is a graduate of the FBI LEEDA Trilogy series.

Chief Travis Gullberg said, "Don's appointment to Assistant Chief is well deserved. We look forward to his continued leadership and the positive contributions he will bring to our department."

Today's Oath of Office ceremony follows the retirement of Assistant Chief Andrew Shearer. The Gresham Police Department thanks Assistant Chief Shearer for his service and leadership during his time with the agency and wishes him the best in retirement.

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver will celebrate the rededication of the Salmon Run Bell Tower from 11:30 a.m. to noon Friday, June 5 at Propstra Square in Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St.

The free community event marks the completion of a restoration project to preserve the beloved landmark for future generations.

Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and Vice Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, Sam Robinson, will open the rededication event by sharing how the tower’s artwork and storytelling elements were created to honor Indigenous history and culture in the region. At noon, the bell tower will once again come to life as the restored glockenspiel and animated diorama return to operation after years of inactivity.

Originally dedicated in June 2002, the Salmon Run Bell Tower was a gift from George and Carolyn Propstra. The 69-foot tower, designed by Cindy Sterry, serves as a centerpiece of Propstra Square and reflects Vancouver’s connection to the Columbia River and the region’s first peoples.

Inside the tower, a rotating sculptural diorama combines motion, storytelling and audio narration to present the Chinook legend of the salmon. The narration, recorded by William Joseph Elk III, accompanies the immersive display.

The tower also features a 35-bell glockenspiel with bronze bells cast in the Netherlands. The carillon is scheduled to ring daily at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m., followed by the animated salmon legend presentation.

Surrounding the tower are brass salmon sculptures created by Jim Demetro and Kevin Maddix, along with inscribed stones and commemorative donation bricks.

To honor the original community gift and preserve this Vancouver landmark, funding for the restoration project was included in the City’s 2023-24 budget.

Learn more about the project and the rededication event at www.cityofvancouver.us/belltower.

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Portland, OR — All are welcome to attend the next America 250 Oregon Commission meeting, which will be held virtually at 3pm on Thursday, June 4. Register here if you would like to join the live conversation. If you are unable to attend, the meeting recording and minutes will be posted online at oregon250.org in the coming weeks.

The meeting agenda is available online, with topics including an Oregon 250 Grants Program update and a presentation on the From Dates to Doorways toolkit created by Oregon Heritage.

Oregon 250 Grant Program

The America 250 Oregon Commission, in partnership with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, established the Oregon 250 Grant Program to help organizations create inclusive, community-focused projects that highlight Oregon’s diverse histories, traditions, and cultures. In total, the program granted more than $244,000 to 80 organizations statewide across four funding cycles.

Learn more about the projects that have been funded through the Oregon 250 Grant Program on the commission website.

From Dates to Doorways: A Practical Toolkit for Milestones, Reflection, and Engagement

This year the United States marks its 250th anniversary — an inspiration for heritage and tourism practitioners to treat milestones as more than just a date on the calendar. To meet this moment, the Oregon Heritage Commission partnered with Story Quilters, LLC to create From Dates to Doorways, a free downloadable toolkit to help organizations plan milestone moments with intention.

The toolkit offers an introduction to anniversaries and milestones and opportunities that may exist for organizations to connect with them in thoughtful ways, real-world examples, and practical ideas for special programming, community engagement, collections/archives, and fundraising/marketing. Access this free toolkit here.

America 250 Oregon Community Calendar

The America 250 Oregon Commission invites individuals, organizations, and communities across the state to participate in our state’s official 250th commemoration by hosting events that reflect the diversity, creativity, and history of Oregon. Whether you’re planning a lecture, festival, exhibition, performance, community conversation, or something entirely unique — the commission wants to hear from you!

To be featured on the America 250 Oregon community calendar, your event must align with at least one of the commission guideposts — the foundational values guiding our semiquincentennial commemoration effort in Oregon.

Fill out the Event Submission Form if you would like your event included on the America 250 Oregon community calendar. All submissions will be reviewed and could take up to 3 weeks for response. Please submit a separate form for each program, project, or event you plan to host. Approved events will receive the “America 250 Oregon Official Event” logo for inclusion on promotional materials.

America 250 Oregon Traveling Exhibitions

The America 250 Oregon Commission is currently offering two traveling exhibitions that are available to rent at no cost!

The Power of Place highlights Oregon’s awe-inspiring landscapes, from its rugged coastline to its tranquil valleys and majestic peaks, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries.

The Pursuit of Happiness shifts the focus to the people and communities of Oregon and the way we gather to celebrate the diverse cultures that define our state. 

Both exhibitions are also available to view for free online here.

Get Involved

If you or your organization is interested in getting involved with the America 250 Oregon commemoration, please contact egon.250@ohs.org">oregon.250@ohs.org or sign up for the official America 250 Oregon email list.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

WHAT

Kenton Farmers Market Opening Day

WHEN   

Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 3:00 - 7:00 pm 

The market is open every Wednesday from 3:00 to 7:00 pm through September 30, 2026.  

WHERE   

Kenton Farmers Market  

Located at N McClellan Street and Denver Avenue in North Portland. The closest address is 8303 N Denver Ave, Portland, Oregon 97217

WHO   

• Sarah Watts, Market Manager of Kenton Farmers Market  
• Katy Kolker, Portland Farmers Market Executive Director   
• 10 market vendors   
• Expected 1,000 shoppers from the neighborhood and community  

OVERVIEW

Kenton Farmers Market is opening for its 15th season on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 3 pm. Around a dozen regional farmers and local food producers are scheduled for the market's opening day.  

This seasonal neighborhood market in North Portland features an average of a dozen vendors each week, offering local, farm-fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, hot food, and other specialty food products.

Live performances by local musicians are hosted every Wednesday from 5 to 7 pm. 

The market provides weekly educational activities focused on farming and food for kids of all ages. From planting seeds to market scavenger hunts to eating local berries, the market's young shoppers can always find fun at the kids' activity booth.

Aligned local community groups, such as OSU Extension Service Master Gardeners and Friends of Trees, are invited to share information and resources with shoppers through a dedicated booth space at the market. 

Cash, credit/debit, and SNAP/Oregon Trail EBT are accepted currencies at the market.

Shoppers participiating in SNAP/EBT can receive up to $20 daily in Double Up Food Bucks from the market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from the farm vendors.  

ABOUT THE MARKET  

Kenton Farmers Market is located in the heart of a historic neighborhood in North Portland. Established in 2012, it offers live music and a lively street-fair atmosphere amid a growing business district. The market's location near a MAX station and its accessibility to cyclists and pedestrians make it a bustling and convenient midweek destination for fresh produce and local food. 

This market is operated by the Portland Farmers Market, a nonprofit organization that manages five farmers markets in Portland. Portland Farmers Market serves as an incubator for emerging farms and food businesses, playing a leading role in the local food movement.

MORE INFO  

Visit our website, Kenton Farmers Market page, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

Clackamas Fire, the Oregon National Guard, and the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, alongside multiple local, state, and federal partners, will conduct a full-scale water rescue training exercise on Friday, June 5, designed to strengthen coordination and readiness during complex rescue incidents across our region.

During the exercise, crews will simulate a large-scale water rescue response featuring helicopter hoist operations where victims are lifted directly from the water into rescue helicopters. Clackamas Fire will also deploy its specialized water rescue boat from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter into the river, allowing crews to practice rapid deployment and victim rescue operations.

The training highlights the precision, communication, and coordination required between aircrews, rescue swimmers, boat operators, firefighters, and ground personnel during real-world emergencies.

The exercise builds on joint training completed in April, where teams conducted multiple hoist iterations and refined communication and rescue operations between agencies. 

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

• U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria
• Oregon National Guard
• Clackamas Fire Water Rescue Team

DATE: Friday, June 5, 2026

TIME:
Media arrival: 10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Exercise operations begin approximately 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

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

Vancouver, Wash. – On June 1, the Vancouver City Council adopted a new Comprehensive Plan, along with an updated zoning code and zoning map at their regular City Council meeting. The new plan, Our Vancouver 2026–2045, and code will guide how the city grows over the next 20 years, shaping where homes, jobs, parks, streets, and public services will be located and how they will look and function.
 

"Community input guided every step of this plan," said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. "People told us what is working, what needs to change, and what kind of Vancouver they want to build for future generations. This plan was built on their ideas, concerns, and hopes for a more equitable and sustainable future. Their voices shaped the decisions we made and the direction we are taking."

Vancouver is expected to grow by 81,000 people by 2045, which means at least 38,000 more homes and 43,000 more jobs are needed to help keep Vancouver livable and affordable for current and future residents. The new plan and code lay out how the City will manage future growth and development to meet the community’s long-term vision. Changes will occur gradually as property owners submit new development proposals and as the City implements the plan.
 

The previous Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2011, no longer reflected community needs and state requirements. The new plan and code better address climate action priorities, the housing and homelessness crisis, economic trends, opportunity for all, and new state laws. Additionally, Vancouver is required to adopt an updated plan under Washington’s Growth Management Act. The plan is designed to be flexible. Minor updates typically occur each year, and a full review and update are required at least once every 10 years to adapt to new trends, technologies, and community needs.

The plan reflects more than three years of community engagement, including input from community members at more than 100 meetings and events. The Planning Commission has also been involved in creating the plan and code and unanimously recommended its adoption on April 28, 2026.
 

"It has been deeply meaningful to watch community voices take shape in the formation of this comprehensive plan," said Planning Commission Chair Patrick Adigweme. "Residents challenged ideas, asked hard questions, and made clear that growth must be equitable to be meaningful. While not everyone agreed on every detail, I hope all can recognize their contributions in the final plan."

The plan and code apply only within Vancouver’s current city limits. Areas outside the city, including in Vancouver’s urban growth area, continue to be managed under Clark County’s Comprehensive Plan, which is also being updated. The plan and code become effective July 31, 2026. More information is available on the Our Vancouver page on Be Heard.

Photos available upon request.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—An Ontario, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for transporting fentanyl from Portland to Malheur County, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Joe Luis Parras, Jr., 43, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison and four years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in May 2025, High Desert Drug Task Force (HDDTF) investigators learned that Parras would be traveling from Portland to Malheur County with a supply of fentanyl. Parras was pulled over by Oregon State Police for an active warrant and arrested. Pursuant to a search warrant, HDDTF investigators searched the car and found more than 200 grams of powdered fentanyl. Investigators also seized methamphetamine and additional fentanyl on Parras during his arrest.

On Dec. 9, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Parras with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Parras pleaded guilty on March 10, 2026.

The HDDTF investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Maloney prosecuted the case.

The HDDTF is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. HDDTF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is composed of members from the Oregon State Police, Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Land Management and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. HDDTF is supported by the Ontario Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baker City Police Department, Baker County Sheriff’s Office, Nyssa Police Department, Payette Police Department, Fruitland Police Department, Payette County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, Nampa Police Department, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, Caldwell Police Department, Malheur County District Attorney’s Office and numerous other local and federal law enforcement partners.

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

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 The Corbett Fire District, which protects the Corbett area and the Scenic gorge, will sponsor their annual breakfast which funds a scholarship and  other essential community needs. Such as providing lifejackets for community use on the Sandy River and assistence for the victims of fires.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A New Jersey man was sentenced to federal prison last Friday for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Mark T. Eager, 34, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

“This defendant showed a blatant disregard for human life by trafficking fentanyl across the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Bradford. “My office will continue to pursue those who profit from poisoning our communities, and we will use every available resource and partnership to combat fentanyl trafficking and keep Oregonians safe.”

“This investigation brought together law enforcement agencies from across the nation,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Homeland Security Investigations special agents from Portland, Newark, and Houston contributed to the case, along with the Portland Police Bureau and HIDTA HIT officers, who were instrumental in identifying Eager. His 11-year sentence sends a clear message: no matter where you are in the country or the world, if you attempt to sell narcotics online to Americans, we will find you.”

“Fentanyl trafficking poses a grave threat to communities across the United States, and Homeland Security Investigations is committed to working with our partners to disrupt and dismantle the criminal networks responsible,” said HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Lucia Cabral-DeArmas. “This case demonstrates the power of interagency collaboration under the Homeland Security Task Force initiative, leveraging resources from across the country to hold traffickers accountable and protect the American people. We will continue to pursue those who endanger lives through the distribution of dangerous synthetic opioids, and we remain steadfast in our mission to safeguard our communities from the violence and instability caused by transnational criminal organizations.”

“By following this offender’s digital trail, Homeland Security Investigations and our law enforcement partners nationwide executed federal search warrants, dismantled an active dark web fentanyl packaging operation and recovered deadly amounts of fentanyl, thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency, and a trove of electronic devices and packaging materials,” said HSI Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas. “This case is a powerful example of how coordinated, data-driven investigations can disrupt dangerous networks and help protect our communities from lethal synthetic opioids.”

According to court documents, from November 2023 through June 2024, Eager and his co-conspirator sold fentanyl on the Dark Net and Telegram. Eager operated as the vendor WRSEH10 and marketed the fentanyl as “China White Synthetic Heroin.”

In June 2024, HSI agents executed search warrants on two residences associated with Eager in Kearny, New Jersey, and seized over 360 grams of powdered fentanyl, counterfeit M30 pills, drug ledgers, cellular phones, two computers, and drug packaging consistent with three deliveries that were sent to Oregon.

On September 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Eager with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl.

On February 4, 2026, Eager pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.

HSI Portland and HSI Houston investigated this case with assistance from HSI Newark, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Interdiction Task Force (HIT). Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin prosecuted the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey assisted the U.S. Attorney’s in Oregon in obtaining the search warrants that were executed in Kearny.

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

This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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State of Oregon v. Juan Carlos Elias-Perez

Marion County Circuit Court Case 26CR01310 and 26CR01311

Salem, OR – June 2, 2026 –  Marion County Circuit Court Judge Manuel Perez sentenced Juan Carlos Elias-Perez, age 36, to 48 months in the Department of Corrections after a Marion County Jury found him guilty of Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree.

The convictions stem from a December 14, 2025, incident in which Salem Police Officers and Marion County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an apartment on Sunnyview Road NE. At approximately 4:08 a.m., the victim, H.W., was awoken when she heard banging on the exterior of her residence, including her windows and front door. When she opened the door, she saw Elias‑Perez standing outside holding a knife and telling her to come toward him. Elias-Perez then began to approach H.W. while wielding the knife. Fearing for her safety and that of her three children and grandchildren sleeping in the residence, ages 4, 9, and 10, she immediately shut and locked the door and called 911. Investigators quickly located Elias‑Perez several hundred yards away and arrested him.

At the time of the incident, Elias-Perez was a stranger to the victim.  He has a listed residence from Issaquah, Washington. 

“This incident is a parent or guardian’s nightmare.  No one should have to open their door to this- especially within their own home with children present. The victim was offering help but instead experienced being threatened with a knife,” said District Attorney Elect Brendan Murphy.  “A victim’s fear is something we try to consider when deciding an appropriate sentencing recommendation, and DDA Wolfe’s prison recommendation was the right result here.”

Elias‑Perez was also convicted in a separate case from November 2024 involving a secure laundry room at an apartment complex on Market Street. After entering the room and disturbing belongings, he was confronted by the property’s security manager. A struggle occurred, and after the manager forcibly removed him from the room, Elias‑Perez began throwing rocks, one of which struck the manager in the arm. After the manager retreated and closed the laundry room door, Elias‑Perez continued throwing rocks, damaging the building and breaking a window. A jury found him guilty of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree for his role in this incident.

The State was represented by Deputy District Attorney Braden Wolf. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the Salem Police Department and Marion County Sheriff’s Office for their swift and diligent responses, which played a critical role in resolving this case.

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June 2, 2026

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

OHA, local public health monitoring passenger exposed to Andes virus

Individual was aboard outbreak-stricken MV Hondius cruise ship

PORTLAND, Ore.—Public health officials are monitoring an Oregon resident after their return this week from a Nebraska quarantine facility, where the individual stayed after disembarking from the cruise ship MV Hondius.

The resident, who has asked for privacy, arrived home in Oregon June 1 and will remain in quarantine through June 21—42 days following their return to the United States on May 10.

Since May 10, the Oregon resident has been at the National Quarantine Unit (NQU) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The resident was transported to the facility after disembarking with other U.S. passengers from the MV Hondius in Spain following an outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus aboard the cruise ship, which departed Ushuaia, Argentina, April 1.

Oregon Health Authority has collaborated closely with federal and local partners, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local public health authorities, on the response to the Andes virus outbreak. This has included implementing guidelines for the safe return of any Oregon passenger to the state.

OHA reminds people that the risk of infection with Andes virus in Oregon remains extremely low and there are no concerns of transmission to the general public.

CDC has published Interim Guidance for Public Health Assessment and Management of People with Potential Exposure to Andes Virus to support monitoring of individuals with exposure to the Andes virus on the MV Hondius cruise.

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SALEM, OR — On Monday afternoon, a federal judge granted a Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) motion to exclude many criminally-charged individuals from the Oregon State Hospital in the ongoing Mink/Bowman case, which will force early release of mentally unstable individuals charged with serious Measure 11 crimes like rape, murder, kidnapping, assault, and robbery.

“During the past few years, these federal judge decisions continue to erode public safety in our community and deny treatment to mental health patients,” said Commissioner Kevin Cameron. “Releasing these individuals before stabilization will not benefit them or our community.”

The new order allows dangerous individuals charged with serious crimes to walk free from the Oregon State Hospital in Salem without first being stabilized or held for prosecution. The State of Oregon chose not to oppose DRO’s motion, and the federal judge refused to even consider any dissenting perspectives when it denied Marion County’s request to file a brief response. This new order overrides the state legislature and state judges across Oregon.

“Forcing early release of mentally unstable individuals charged with rape and murder is an extremely shocking blow to public safety in our community,” said Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell. “The root cause of this problem is the governor’s inexcusable, years-long refusal to fully staff needed mental health treatment beds.”

All Measure 11 crimes will now face earlier release from the Oregon State Hospital before mental health stabilization due to the new limitation on the “safety valve” for serious crimes, including:

• Assault I
• Assault II
• Kidnapping I
• Kidnapping II
• Manslaughter I
• Manslaughter II
• Murder
• Rape I
• Rape II
• Robbery I
• Robbery II
• Sexual Abuse I
• Unlawful Sexual Penetration I
• Unlawful Sexual Penetration II
• Sodomy I
• Sodomy II

Categories of crime that are now entirely excluded from state hospital care include, but are not limited to:

• Property damage in excess of $1,000
• Possession and use of a stolen vehicle
• Theft in excess of $1,000
• Burglary
• Identity theft (including scamming seniors)
• Aggravated harassment
• Disorderly conduct
• Failure to appear in court on a felony charge

“It’s absurd that Disability Rights Oregon advocates to take away treatment from criminally-charged individuals causing harm in our community,” said Commissioner Colm Willis, Chair. “Allowing these individuals to continue to freely and openly cause harm to our community instead of getting them the help they need is dangerous and irresponsible. Marion County residents deserve better.”

Marion County continues to weigh its options to address ongoing community challenges caused by the Oregon State Hospital’s refusal to fully staff their current bed capacity.

View this release online.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office River Patrol Unit is preparing to support the United States Coast Guard enforcing a security zone on the Willamette River during Fleet Week 2026.

The security zone along the Willamette River between the Hawthorne and Steel bridges will start at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 and run through 12 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026.

The security zone – established by the Coast Guard – is designed to protect the various vessels that will be moored along the waterfront near Tom McCall Park, as well as the public participating in Rose Festival events.

During this enforcement period, no person or vessel may enter or remain in the designated security zone without permission from the Sector Columbia River Captain of the Port.

Boaters who need to enter the area must ask for permission using the marine radio via VHF Marine Radio Channel 23A.

The Coast Guard and local law enforcement partners, including the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, will examine all vessels prior to being escorted across the zone at a no wake speed.

This safety zone will also apply to human-powered craft, such as kayaks and paddle-boards, who will be permitted to transit without escort through a paddle craft corridor marked by a string of green lighted buoys after inspection.

A violation of the safety zone is punishable by civil fines up to $40,000 and/or criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Community members will see a security presence on the water, including vessels from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office River Patrol Unit.

Commuters should also anticipate travel delays – on land and sea – associated with the passage of the various vessels that are set to arrive Tuesday, continuing through Thursday. These delays will occur again on Monday during departure.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reminds boaters and the public to wear life jackets, dress for the weather and water temperature and always boat responsibly.

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(Newsrooms: Chief McDonald is available for interviews today between 10AM & 11AM at Tigard PD. Please RSVP with the PIO.)

Tigard Police Chief Jamey McDonald is announcing his retirement, effective July 2, 2026, which marks exactly 25 years of service with the City of Tigard.

“When I look back on my career here, am I so grateful to have been part of this team,” Chief McDonald said. “When I started here on July 2, 2001, I never could have predicted the incredible journey I would take from a new patrol officer to the leader of this department.”

Chief McDonald is the first Chief to rise through the ranks in the department from a patrol officer to Chief. Through the years, he has held several assignments within the department, including School Resource Officer, Field Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, Commercial Crimes Unit supervisor and a founding member of the Tigard Police Honor Guard. He was promoted to sergeant in 2010, to lieutenant in 2014 and to commander in 2016, where he served as the division commander for both the operations and services divisions. He was named Chief of Police in June 2024.

As Chief, one of his key achievements was bringing a holistic wellness program to the department, to encourage employees to counter the stress and trauma of the job by building healthy habits every day and seeking support services.

“The department is in great hands,” Chief McDonald added. “We have amazing men and women here who are committed to serving Tigard and are passionate about their work in the community,” Chief McDonald added.

After retirement, he is looking forward to spending more time with his family and grandchildren in Central Oregon.

“Tigard has been wonderful to me and my family,” he said. “I will always cherish my time here. I will never forget the relationships I have built and I will reflect fondly on the memories I take with me.”

To watch Chief McDonald’s video announcing his retirement, visit: https://youtu.be/y3a4GRbUrB0. (Para ver en Espanol: https://youtu.be/zTojwV7q8d0.)

More information on Chief McDonald is available here: Chief's Corner | City of Tigard. 

Commander Robert Rogers will take over as Interim Chief effective July 3, 2026. He has served with the Tigard Police Department for 29 years and has worked directly with Chief McDonald on developing department priorities and strategic objectives for both the operations and services divisions.

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WHAT: VA Portland Health Care System will host personnel from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard during their visit to Portland for Rose Festival Fleet Week. The visit is part of a long-standing tradition in which Sailors spend time with Veterans at VA Portland’s main campus and the Vancouver campus. The U.S. Navy Band Brass Quintet will perform a number of selections in the Atrium of the main campus (10:00 a.m. – Noon), and this year’s visit also commemorates the 250^th anniversary of the founding of the United States as part of the “Freedom 250” observances.

WHO: Approximately 44 personnel from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard participating in Fleet Week and Veterans at the Portland and Vancouver VA Medical Centers. Media is welcome to cover the event.

WHEN: Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: In person, at:

• Building 100

Portland VA Medical Center

3710 Southwest US Veterans Hospital Rd.
Portland, OR 97239
 

• Building 11 and Community Living Center (CLC)
  Vancouver VA Medical Center
  1601 East 4th Plain Blvd.
  Vancouver, WA 98661

GRESHAM, OR – Beginning at 9 a.m today, Tuesday, June 2, the Portland Water Bureau in coordination with the City of Gresham will reduce traffic on Powell Boulevard (Highway 26) to one eastbound lane and one westbound lane between Powell Loop (east of SE 182^nd/Highland) and Eastman Parkway.

During the partial closure, no left turns will be allowed in any direction because the work is in the middle of the intersection.

The partial closure will begin at 9 a.m. and crews hope to reopen Powell Blvd to two-lane traffic before the evening commute begins An updated traffic advisory will be issued if there are unexpected delays.

The closure will allow crews to permanently repair the for Powell Blvd, which was damaged and temporarily repaired last week following a water main break underground. Thanks to quick action and strong coordination between Portland Water Bureau and City of Gresham crews, a major leak in one of Portland’s largest water mains (pipes) was successfully located, excavated, evaluated and repaired in less than a day.

Traffic closure and detour details

• The work zone is at Powell Blvd and Birdsdale Ave.
• There is only on lane of traffic open in each direction between Powell Loop (east of SE 182^nd/Highland) and Eastman Parkway.
• Drivers have the option to avoid the area completely by detouring north of Powell to Division St using SE 182^nd Ave (eastbound traffic) or Eastman Parkway (westbound traffic).
• Traffic impacts are expected to continue through the early afternoon. Updates will be shared as they are available.

Previous Water Leak

The leak in a 50-inch steel conduit installed in the 1920s was caused by corrosion over time. This critical piece of infrastructure carries up to 75 million gallons of drinking water a day from the Bull Run Watershed to Portland. As water mains age, small leaks can develop due to external corrosion from nearby underground utility pipes. These types of repairs are a routine part of maintaining a large and complex water system, and crews are trained and equipped to respond quickly.

A non-critical leak was first discovered on May 6 To minimize traffic disruptions, the Portland Water Bureau and the City of Gresham initially coordinated to start repairs following the Memorial Day holiday on Wednesday, May 27. When the leak became more severe, the Water Bureau and Gresham coordinated to move the response earlier. Crews arrived on the scene Tuesday morning, May 26, and worked through the early hours of Wednesday to safely isolate, excavate, diagnose, and repair the damaged pipe.

Following the repair, crews placed a temporary pavement patch over the work area.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to about 900,000 people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports today her deputies ensured the last of those illegally camping in an area north of the Talking Water Gardens vacated the area. The property is privately owned, but the City of Albany was granted rights to use the property for recreation purposes since 1997.  

The property, located in Millersburg, outside the city limits of Albany, recently transitioned from an Albany Police Department jurisdictional response to the Linn County Sheriff's Office.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office has had complaints about those illegally camping in the area from nearby neighbors, and others wanting to use the area recreationally but did not feel safe or comfortable visiting the area in its current condition. There have been numerous crimes, including assaults, out of control fires, stolen property, and drug activity involving those illegally camped at the property.  The condition of this property represents a significant public safety and environmental risk, including to those illegally camping at the location. In February, deputies investigated an incident of a male who suffered significant burns. The male later admitted he had overdosed on fentanyl and fell into his own campfire, resulting in serious injury to himself. 

The activity at the property directly violates the intent the property owners had for the property. Neither the property owners, nor the City of Albany’s parks rules allow camping, littering or destruction to the land. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is committed to restoring this property to the condition it was intended for public use. 

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office developed a plan that would be carried out over several weeks. The goal was to be compassionate to those illegally using the property being forced to leave, while also restoring conditions and making the property safe for all.

On May 12, deputies from the Linn County Sheriff's Office, working alongside Albany Police Department Community Service Officers, an Albany Police Department Park Ranger, City of Albany Parks staff, employees from Community Helping Addicts Negotiate Change Effectively-C.H.A.N.C.E., and a contracted cleanup crew, conducted a walk-through of the Simpson Park property located north of Talking Water Gardens at 733 NE Waverly Drive, Albany, Oregon.  During this walk-through, deputies observed extensive damage to the property. Individuals had constructed numerous makeshift structures throughout the area, including a two-story structure.  There were also abandoned vehicles, boats, and kayaks on the property. Some areas had surveillance cameras installed with solar panel power and fenced compounds with animals.  In addition, Traeger style BBQ’s, thousands of bikes/bike parts, power tools and even a piano were located. Numerous trees and bushes had been cut down, human waste had been deposited throughout the property, and large amounts of household garbage and debris were piled high across the area. Discarded, uncapped hypodermic needles were also found on the ground.  Multiple campfires were actively burning while our deputies went through the area, creating a significant fire risk.

On this date, deputies made contact with 32 individuals illegally camping on the property. Employees from C.H.A.N.C.E. accompanied deputies throughout the walk-through to connect occupants with shelter and community resources to assist in their transition of being removed from the property in the weeks ahead. Multiple people at the location provided statements that they know people who have burglarized railcars and boxcars that stop overnight along the property, including stealing lumber off the railcars. In addition, other items are said to be stolen from neighboring properties in order to meet their needs. Deputies made seven arrests on outstanding warrants, to include charges of Assault II and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Deputies returned to the property on May 21st and contacted others camping at the property to notify them they needed to leave the area.  On this date, deputies arrested six people with warrants, and also recovered a stolen trailer that was originally stolen from the Albany area.

On May 28^th, deputies posted the area, giving a final warning for those illegally camping they needed to leave the property and remove their belongings.  Several more people were arrested on outstanding warrants.

Today deputies again returned to the property to clear it of anyone left illegally camping after the previous warnings to leave.  While there, they found two more people on outstanding warrants.  The remaining campers left the area without arrest.   

Tomorrow, on June 2^nd a contractor will begin the process of cleaning up the property and restoring it to its natural condition.

Sheriff Michelle Duncan wants the public to know her deputies will continue working with the property owner, partner agencies, and community organizations to return the property back to a condition that is satisfactory to the condition it was intended to be used.  Over the last few weeks, deputies have been openly communicating and treating those found to be using the property illegally with compassion, ensuring individuals are aware of resources to help them with their transition. However, Sheriff Duncan wants to make it clear when the clean-up and restoration process begins on June 2^nd, those committing illegal activity on the property, to include camping, littering, destruction of the land and vegetation may face criminal charges.

PORTLAND, Ore.— The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is proud to announce FBI Special Agent Bobby Gutierrez as the Freedom 250 Hometown Hero. The prestigious national award honors individuals whose steadfast courage, generosity, and public service embody the enduring ideals of liberty and civic responsibility.

The Freedom 250 initiative was created in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. It recognizes outstanding Americans who make lasting contributions to their local communities.

SA Gutierrez was selected as the District of Oregon’s Hometown Hero because of his leadership, collaboration, and dedication to the joint downtown fentanyl enforcement missions. For the past two years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Portland Police Bureau have targeted fentanyl dealers in Portland, Oregon. SA Gutierrez works closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to combat the scourge of fentanyl. He has helped coordinate dozens of investigations focused on fentanyl distributors in downtown Portland. Through his leadership, nearly 100 fentanyl distributors have been federally charged for their unlawful conduct.

“As we celebrate America’s 250^th birthday, I am honored to present Special Agent Gutierrez as Oregon’s Hometown Hero. Special Agent Gutierrez’s dedication, selfless service, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of our community,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Two years ago, Portland had notorious open-air drug markets, rising crime, and frequent overdoses. Thanks to Special Agent Gutierrez’s efforts, dedication, and coordination with local, county, and state partners, we are reducing fentanyl trafficking, violent crime, and overdoses downtown.”

SA Gutierrez has proven to be a tireless investigator and steadfast partner in our efforts to restore downtown Portland to a safe and vibrant community.

For more information on the award and the Freedom 250 initiative, visit the Department of Justice news page or White House Freedom 250 Page. 

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PORTLAND, Ore.— As part of America’s 250^th birthday celebration, Freedom 250, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country are honoring America by spearheading gift-in-kind charity drives to benefit their local communities. In the District of Oregon, U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford announced a charity drive in Portland, Eugene, and Medford, Oregon, where its three offices are located. Collectively, members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon donated over 2,000 items to local food pantries.

“I am incredibly proud of our staff for coming together to support families in our local communities through this food drive,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Their generosity and commitment to service reflect the very best of public service, and I am grateful for the meaningful impact these donations will have on local food pantries and the individuals and families they serve.”

The Portland office delivered over 600 pounds of food to Neighborhood House. For more than 40 years, Neighborhood House has been providing nutritious, free food to the community of Portland and provides service to over 850 households per month.

The Eugene office delivered almost 500 pounds of food to Food for Lane County, equating to approximately 395 meals. Food for Lane County partners with 150 partner agencies, including 34 pantries and more than 100 supplemental food programs throughout Lane County to feed children, families, and seniors in Lane County who are experiencing food insecurity.

The Medford office delivered over 300 pounds to ACCESS, a community action agency, which, among other things, provides food to over 30 emergency food pantries throughout Jackson County to low-income families and individuals.

Freedom 250 is celebrated in every city, every town, every stretch of American road. You can find a celebration near you at the above hyperlink. 

# # #

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. -- The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office presented its 2025 City of Troutdale Annual Report, demonstrating public safety improvements, enhanced response efficiencies, and greater community engagement.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office managed 8,644 total calls for service within Troutdale in 2025. This includes emergency dispatched responses and self-initiated proactive services.

The briefing comes as the City of Troutdale reviews its long-standing intergovernmental public safety agreement with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, originally established in March 2015. The city has expressed interest in creating its own city-run police department.

“The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and Troutdale’s shared history since 2015, has resulted in a stable, professional, and highly capable public safety model,” said Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “We view our relationship with Troutdale as deeply important and a long-term investment in the city’s future. By continuing to leverage the resources of the sheriff’s office, Troutdale can maintain a level of public safety that meets and exceeds the needs of this community.”

Under the contract, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office provides Troutdale around-the-clock comprehensive policing services throughout the city between two districts. A minimum of one sergeant is on duty to supervise these efforts. This is accomplished through three 10-hour shifts. Two uniformed deputy sheriffs are assigned to overlapping shifts.

“Our partnership with the City of Troutdale is intentionally designed around friendly service where residents and business owners truly get to know their deputies,” said Chief Deputy Lance Hemsworth. “The 2025 metrics reflect the gains we have made together in tackling the safety and livability issues that matter most to this community.”

The report emphasized the administrative support and specialized units provided by the contract, which ensures Troutdale receives comprehensive, modern police capabilities that an independent municipal agency would otherwise have to fund entirely on its own, such as a records division or detectives who are responsible for investigating crime.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office conducted 34 high-visibility enforcement missions in 2025 targeting stolen vehicles, retail theft, dangerous driving, human trafficking, and DUIIs. These proactive operations yielded 151 arrests, 114 citations, and recovered 16 stolen vehicles in Troutdale.

The city’s dedicated Community Resource Deputy (CRD) focused exclusively on long-term neighborhood safety. In 2025, Troutdale's CRD transformed a single traffic stop into a complex investigation, culminating in a successful search warrant that dismantled a stolen property ring.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office’s Investigations Unit handled complex criminal offenses, initiating 142 new cases in Troutdale and closing 116 felony investigations, including a rapid, life-saving response and exhaustive major crimes team follow-up to a multi-victim shooting at the Sandy River Delta in Troutdale.

School resource deputies embedded within the Reynolds School District provided campus safety and mentorship, documenting 273 proactive mentoring contacts and teaching 11 student classes, while recording zero campus arrests or citations in 2025.

Troutdale residents and businesses deserve a law enforcement model that is ready – and able to – protect lives. Establishing a fundamentally understaffed, inadequate police department – one that lacks 24/7 patrol services – does not fulfill the government’s public safety obligation to its residents.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to stay involved with the process by learning more and sharing their opinions at upcoming public meetings.

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio explores one of old-time radio’s most influential horror programs with its latest episode, “Lights Out,” premiering at 1 p.m. June 15.

The episode examines the groundbreaking series created by writer and director Wyllis Cooper and later expanded by his successor, Arch Obler. Often regarded as the ultimate radio horror program, “Lights Out” became known for its unsettling stories, experimental storytelling techniques and immersive sound design that invited listeners to imagine the terror as they listened.

Originally broadcast on NBC affiliate WENR in Chicago beginning in 1934, “Lights Out” aired late Wednesday nights and focused on supernatural thrillers, psychological horror, crime and fantasy. Cooper wrote 128 original episodes during the program’s first two years before handing the series to Obler, who further popularized the show with acclaimed episodes such as “Chicken Heart.” Actors featured throughout the series included horror icon Boris Karloff.

“‘Lights Out’ transformed radio storytelling by asking audiences to actively participate with their imaginations,” said John F. Barber, producer of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the Digital Technology and Culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “Listeners were encouraged to turn off distractions, sit in the dark and fully concentrate on the stories unfolding in their minds. That immersive approach helped establish techniques still used in audio storytelling today.”

The episode highlights how Cooper and Obler experimented with stream-of-consciousness writing, first-person narration and psychological tension to create engrossing, edge-of-your-seat listening experiences. In introducing his 1962 spoken-word album “Drop Dead! An Exercise in Horror,” Obler described the goal as “recreating the madness and the mystery on the wide screen of your own mind.”

“Lights Out” concludes Re-Imagined Radio’s three-part tribute to Cooper’s contributions to radio drama. Although none of Cooper’s original “Lights Out” broadcasts survive, many of his scripts lived on through Obler’s adaptations and revisions, offering insight into Cooper’s pioneering storytelling methods and lasting influence on radio drama.

Listeners are invited to tune in June 15 to experience how imagination, suspense and sound combined to make “Lights Out” one of radio’s most memorable horror series.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Created in 2013 by Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences.

New episodes premiere on the third Monday of each month. Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, Washington; KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, Oregon; KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska; KAAD-FM in Sonora, California; and Galloway's Star 24 in Galloway, New Jersey, providing coast-to-coast coverage across the United States. In addition, each station streams its programming globally, helping Re-Imagined Radio reach listeners in more than 60 countries. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm, which also features Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA, offering additional sound-based storytelling between monthly episodes.

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.

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Klamath Falls, OR — Klamath County Fire District 1 is proud to recognize two community members, Patrick Carroll and Lia Adamson, for their extraordinary actions during a recent structure fire in their neighborhood. Patrick Carroll received the Distinguished Citizen Service Award, and Lia Adamson was recognized with the Emergency Response Activation Award.

During the incident, Patrick Carroll demonstrated exceptional courage and quick decision-making when he observed smoke coming from a residence. He immediately alerted another bystander to call 911 and proceeded to investigate the home to determine if anyone was inside. Despite rapidly deteriorating fire conditions he encountered as he approached from the back of the residence, Patrick was able to identify and communicate with an occupant still inside.

Patrick continued his efforts at personal risk, ultimately assisting in guiding the occupant safely out of the home. When the occupant attempted to re-enter the burning structure to rescue a pet, Patrick intervened and prevented her from going back inside—an action that likely averted a tragic outcome. The occupant later referred to Patrick as a “hero.”

Also recognized is Lia Adamson, whose calm and effective actions ensured a rapid emergency response. Lia immediately called 911, provided critical information to dispatchers, and worked to confirm that an occupant was still inside the residence while simultaneously communicating with both Patrick and emergency dispatch. Her clear and composed communication helped first responders understand the urgency and conditions of the incident before arriving on scene.

“Emergency scenes are chaotic by nature, and the actions taken by Patrick and Lia made a meaningful difference in the outcome of this incident,” said Fire Chief Brent Knutson. “Their quick thinking, courage, and willingness to act in a critical moment reflect the very best of our community.”

Klamath County Fire District 1 extends its sincere gratitude to both individuals for their actions, which exemplify selflessness, courage, and commitment to helping others in times of crisis.

Join Battle Ground Public Schools board members and district leaders for a discussion about the financial future of BGPS schools, including budget priorities and future educational programs and operations levies. Financial stability is critical to bringing change to the district and preparing students for their future.  

This event is open to the public and everyone is welcome. No RSVP is required. Child care will be available for children over the age of 1 (must be bathroom trained).

• Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Location: Battle Ground High School media center (300 W. Main St., Battle Ground)

Due to the format of the session, it will not be recorded. However, a summary will be available afterward on the district website.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3. An Executive Session will be held at 8 a.m. prior to convening the public meeting. The meetings will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The regular meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda includes:

• Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan
• Forest Protection Association Budget
• Rangeland Fire Protection Association Budget

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

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.

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

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

Eugene, Oregon – The Prefontaine Classic approaches its 51^st year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission.

The Prefontaine Classic is the 29^th event in Oregon to be designed an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks, Oregon State Fair, Medford’s Pear Blossom Festival, the Pendleton Round-Up, and the Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana.
 

“The designation recognizes those traditions that have been ongoing for 50 years or more, add to the livability and identity of the state, and has a public profile that distinguishes it from other events,” said Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator.
 

On June 7, 1975, the first annual Prefontaine Classic was held. The roots of the Prefontaine Classic began in 1973 as the Hayward Restoration Meet. Oregon track & field coach Bill Bowerman and the Oregon Track Club hosted the event to raise funds for the renovation of the West Grandstands at Historic Hayward Field. After the fundraising needs were met, the meet was set to be renamed to the Bowerman Classic to honor Bill Bowerman. Eight days before the inaugural Bowerman Classic, it was renamed the Prefontaine Classic following the loss of Steve Prefontaine — one of the State of Oregon’s most well-known and decorated athletes.
 

Today the Prefontaine Classic is organized by Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club. The event stays true to the core of the Prefontaine Classic by hosting the best track & field athletes from around the globe every year for competition in sprint, distance, jumping, and throwing events. This competition continues to honor Steve Prefontaine and his competitive spirit.
 

“We are humbled and honored for The Prefontaine Classic to receive Oregon Heritage Tradition designation,” said Jody Smith, co-Meeting Director. “This recognition is a testament to the Oregon Track Club and all those who built the world's best track & field meet. As the current stewards of the event, we remain committed to upholding Pre’s spirit by bringing the world’s best athletes and performances to Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.”
 

The Prefontaine Classic hosts approximately 12,000 fans in person every year, with close to one-third of them traveling in from outside the state of Oregon for the event. In 2025, the estimated economic impact of the meet totaled $4.1 million.
 

The Commission will be presenting the Heritage Tradition Designation to Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club at the 51^st annual Prefontaine Classic, July 3-4, at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.
 

The application process along with a list of designated Traditions is available at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/pages/heritage-designations.aspx.
 

About the Oregon Heritage Commission (OHC)

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 and other designations.
 

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. 
 

About TrackTown USA, Inc. 

TrackTown USA, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to setting a standard of excellence in hosting premier track and field events, creating a supportive environment for elite athletic performances, being a leader in sustainable sport practices, and inspiring the next generation of track and field athletes and fans. The organization was responsible for organizing the 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships, the 2015, 2022, and 2023 USATF Outdoor Championships, the 2016 IAAF World Indoor Championships in Portland, and the 2016, 2020, and 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials—Track & Field. In partnership with USA Track & Field, the organization brought the 2022 World Athletics Championships to the United States for the first time. TrackTown delivers the Wanda Diamond League’s recurring Prefontaine Classic, recognized as one of the world’s best track and field meets.
 

About Oregon Track Club

Oregon Track Club’s mission is to grow the legacy the historic track and field community in the Eugene-Springfield region. OTC welcomes people of all ages — youth, elites, masters and other community members — to get involved in the area's track and field experiences, either by watching, volunteering, or participating in the events. The Oregon Track Club began The Prefontaine Classic in 1975 as a living memorial to Steve Prefontaine, and continues to bring fans to the sport’s most elite level by serving as the community connection to the meet today.

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CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (1 June 2026) – On Friday, May 29, 2026, at 2:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 26 near milepost 29.5 in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Subaru Impreza, operated by a 16-year-old female, pulled onto Highway 26 near SE Weber Road to head westbound when it failed to yield the right of way. A westbound blue Ford Focus, operated by Briande Boudreau Lybbert (39) of Portland, struck the back left of the Subaru. The Ford then entered the eastbound travel lane where it collided head-on with a white U-Haul moving truck, operated by Kent Jonathan Moe (68) of Castle Rock (CO).  

The operator of the Ford (Lybbert) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the U-Haul (Moe) and a passenger were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The operator of the Subaru was reportedly not injured and was cited for careless driving.  

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, American Medical Response, Clackamas Fire and Rescue, the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

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

TILLAMOOK COUNTY, Ore. (1 June 2026) – On Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 1:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 18 near milepost 13.5 in Tillamook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Cadillac sedan, operated by Brandon Westly Joslin (43) of Scotts Mills, was traveling eastbound on Highway 18 near Otis when it failed to negotiate a corner and continued straight into the westbound lane for an unknown reason. The Cadillac collided head-on with a westbound gray Hyundai Sonata operated by Hannah Louise Parsons (22) of Elgin.

A passenger in the Cadillac, Patrick John Stubblefield (43) of Salem, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

The operator of the Hyundai (Parsons) and two adult passengers were transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by North Lincoln Fire and Rescue, Grand Ronde Emergency Services, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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

The Portland Water Bureau continues to deliver clean and safe drinking water that meets or surpasses drinking water standards to nearly a million customers, according to our annual water quality report. And here’s how we know: In addition to continuous water quality monitoring at key locations, our water quality lab conducted almost 40,000 tests in 2025 to track more than 200 potential contaminants. Tests are conducted throughout the system, all the way from the source to people’s taps.

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

"This report is more than just a regulatory requirement; it is a testament to our commitment to clean, safe, and reliable drinking water,” said Director of Public Utilities Dr. Ting Lu. “I am grateful for our dedicated professionals who work around the clock to manage and maintain our system.”

Read the online report to:

• Learn about your drinking water and our work to keep it safe
• Get answers to common drinking water quality questions
• Learn how the Bull Run Filtration Project will keep our drinking water safe into the future

How to read the report

As early as Tuesday, June 2, Portlanders will receive a flyer in the mail with an easy-to-scan QR code and web address that will take them to the full Portland Water Bureau 2026 Drinking Water Quality Report on the City of Portland website.

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

Public health is our top priority

Portland’s drinking water is safe today and for generations to come. This starts at our two high-quality sources, which are the two largest drinking water sources in the state: the Bull Run Watershed and the Columbia South Shore Well Field. Water Bureau staff treat the water and test it from many locations around our water system, including our water sources, our treatment facilities, and around town.

This report includes test results for all known health-related contaminants detected in 2025. If a known health-related contaminant is not listed in this report, it was not detected in our drinking water. We are proud to share that this includes PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which have not been detected in our drinking water.

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

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

Investing to maintain public health and reliable service

We are building a new filtration facility to protect public health and comply with federal and state drinking water regulations. When complete, the Bull Run filtration facility will remove Cryptosporidium, sediment, and organic matter, while also reducing disinfection byproducts and ensuring our water system remains resilient against earthquakes, wildfires, and other natural disasters. A project this size takes multiple years to build, which is why crews are working six days a week to have these water system improvements in place by September 2029.

“The Bull Run Filtration Project is a transformative investment in public health and long-term resilience for generations to come,” said Director Lu. “We remain fully committed to moving forward with the highest levels of accountability and transparency to finish this project strong. I encourage everyone to check out our ongoing construction status and reach out if you have any questions.”

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

PORTLAND, Ore. – Statewide fire restrictions remain in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington, and many local regions have additional restrictions in place. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of all active restrictions and closures as warmer weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.

“Every visitor to public lands can take additional precautions to lower the risk of starting a fire,” said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. “Just one spark can start a wildfire.”

Visitors should research their destinations in advance, as restrictions vary by location and jurisdiction. The use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns remain prohibited.

“Preventing human caused fires is one of the best ways we can all work together to keep our firefighters and our communities safe,” added Josh O’Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.

Many local restrictions address questions of when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are allowed, and what type of safety equipment to have on hand.

Vehicle Maintenance and Parking Safety
As roadside brush dries out, vehicles become a primary source of accidental ignitions. Drivers are urged to properly maintain their vehicles and avoid parking or idling on tall, dry grass. Even without a spark, the intense heat from a vehicle's exhaust system or catalytic converter can ignite vegetation beneath the car in a matter of seconds. Motorists should stick to established roads, gravel turnouts, or cleared parking areas.

Safe Towing and Equipment Practices
Towing trailers or driving recreational vehicles requires extra vigilance during fire season. Motorists must ensure that tow chains are properly secured and not dragging on the pavement. Loose metal links striking the highway create a continuous stream of sparks that can easily ignite the roadside. Additionally, all off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, and portable generators operated on public lands should be equipped with a properly functioning spark arrestor to stop hot embers from escaping.

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

-BLM-

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

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service conducts operations in close coordination with the Bureau of Land Management. As a unified federal entity under the Department of the Interior, the USWFS integrates expertise to streamline wildfire prevention, response and recovery under our shared mission to foster fire-resilient landscapes and safeguard communities across America’s public lands.

At 11:08 this morning the Vancouver Fire Department responded to a house fire at 12801 NE 4^th ave in Clark County Fire District 6. CCFD 6 units arrived within 4 minutes and found smoke and flames from the back of a 2-story Adult Family Home. Firefighters immediately deployed hose lines to the back of and inside the house to extinguish the fire. Crews initiated a search within the home and found one non-ambulatory male who was carried out safely where medical aid was quickly administered. He was transported by an ambulance with AMR to a local area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A second alarm was called to bring additional resources to the fire scene.

Firefighters identified that the fire had spread into the attic space.  It took approximately 30 minutes to bring the fire under control with about 35 firefighters on scene working together from CCFD, VFD and Clark Cowlitz Fire and Rescue.

The Red Cross was requested to assist those displaced.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Clark County Fire Marshal's Office.

Woodburn Police Investigating Early Morning Shooting

On May 31, 2026, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Woodburn Police responded to a report of shots fired in the 200 block of North 3rd Street.

Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.

This is an active investigation. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345.  Case#:  26-6625

View this news release online. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an early morning road rage shooting and requesting help to identify the shooter.

At approximately 2:44 a.m. on Sunday, May 31, 2026, emergency dispatchers received a 911 call from a driver reporting someone shot into their car near the intersection of Southeast Foster Road and Southeast Richey Road in unincorporated Multnomah County.

The victim, a 24-year-old man, reported that he was driving a silver 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck eastbound on Southeast Foster Road when he passed an SUV described as a blue Ford Expedition.

Immediately following the pass, someone in the Ford Expedition shot at the victim’s pickup.

Deputies with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office responded and located evidence of gunfire, including bullet impacts to the victim’s pickup and shell casings on the ground.

There were three people inside the victim’s pickup: the 24-year-old driver, 19-year-old man, a 22-year-old woman. The shooting did not injure anyone.

The suspect’s reportedly drove eastbound on Southeast Foster Road toward Clackamas County immediately after the shooting. Deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office checked their nearby area.

The suspect’s SUV is described as an older dark blue Ford Expedition with a distinct gold-colored bumper, no license plates, and having a temporary tag in the bottom left corner of the rear window.

Deputies are asking anyone who lives along Southeast Foster Road near Southeast Richey Road or SE 172nd Avenue to check for photos or videos between 2:30 a.m. and 3 a.m. on May 31 for any vehicles matching this description.

If you have any information regarding the identity of the shooter or the location of the navy blue Ford Expedition, please contact the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (503) 988-0560 or email tips@mcso.us, referencing case number 26-23665.

For urgent non-emergency tips, call 503-823-3333.

When reporting on this incident, and using the photo released, please credit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures clarity and geographical accuracy.

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

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Follow us on social media: @MultCoSo

Online: mcso.us

Woodburn, OR — On Friday, May 29, 2026, at approximately 7:08 p.m., Woodburn Police officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at the Woodburn Villa Apartments, 2100 Arney Lane NE.

During the investigation, officers learned that 29‑year‑old Donald Finlayson had reportedly made suicidal statements earlier in the day while in possession of a firearm. The woman involved reported that she had been assaulted and received visible injuries.

After the initial disturbance, the individuals left the area but later returned. A second assault reportedly occurred shortly before police were called.

Officers attempted to contact Finlayson, who remained inside the apartment and did not respond. The Marion County SWAT Team was requested to assist.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., before the full Marion County SWAT Team arrived on scene, Finlayson exited the apartment and surrendered without incident to officers. A firearm was recovered at the scene.

Finlayson was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:
• Assault II (Domestic Violence)
• Assault IV (Domestic Violence)
• Two counts of Strangulation (Domestic Violence)
• Harassment (Domestic Violence)
• Menacing
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon

The Woodburn Police Department thanks the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Hubbard/Donald Police Department for their assistance in resolving the incident safely.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Vancouver Fire Department Partners with the Cardinal Pre-School at St. Joseph Catholic School to Promote Fire Safety Education

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Vancouver Fire Department was proud to visit The Cardinal Pre-School as part of our ongoing commitment to community outreach, fire prevention education, and building strong relationships with the residents we serve. During the visit, firefighters had the opportunity to engage with students through hands-on learning experiences focused on fire safety, emergency preparedness, and the important role firefighters play in protecting our community. Students learned valuable lessons about calling 9-1-1, recognizing fire hazards, understanding smoke alarms, and what to do in the event of an emergency.

The Vancouver Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to the staff and administration at St. Joseph Elementary and the Cardinal Pre-School for their warm welcome, partnership, and dedication to helping young learners develop life-saving safety habits. We would also like to recognize and thank the members of the Vancouver Fire Department who volunteered their time and expertise to make this event a success.

Community outreach opportunities like this are an essential part of our mission. While emergency response remains at the heart of what we do, prevention and education are equally important. By connecting with children at an early age, we help build a safer and more resilient community while fostering trust and understanding between the public and their fire department. We believe that strong community relationships are built through meaningful interactions, and we are grateful for every opportunity to connect with the people we serve.

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police are investigating a crash which left one person with life-threatening injuries.   Shortly before 5:30 P.M., police and medical personnel responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash near NE 181^st Ave and NE Couch St in Gresham.  Officers determined the involved vehicle left the roadway, struck a utility pole, and came to rest against a nearby apartment building.  The driver was ejected from the vehicle.  They were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. 

The apartment building suffered minor, non-structural damage.  Roads and traffic lights in the area were impacted for several hours while utility crews worked to repair the utility pole and damaged wires.  The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.  

This crash is a reminder of the importance of wearing a seatbelt while travelling in a motor vehicle.   Research has shown proper seatbelt use virtually eliminates the chance of being ejected from a vehicle, even during a roll-over crash.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that using lap and shoulder seat belts reduces the risk of front seat passenger car deaths by 45%, and moderate-to-critical injuries by 50%.  The results are even more significant for the occupants of light trucks.

At approximately 7:00 p.m. this evening, Vancouver Fire responded to reports of an outbuilding fire at 16603 SE Fisher Drive. The first-arriving engine found three small outbuildings fully engulfed in flames.

Fire crews quickly initiated an aggressive fire attack and successfully extinguished the fire, preventing it from extending to a nearby residence. Due to the rapid response and coordinated efforts of firefighters, the fire was contained to the three outbuildings.

A total of four engines, two truck companies, one squad, one battalion chief, and an AMR medic unit responded to the incident.

No civilians, firefighters, or pets were injured during the incident. Additionally, no residents were displaced as a result of the fire.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation and will be determined by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office.

Vancouver Fire encourages residents to remain vigilant about fire safety around their homes. Remember to regularly test smoke alarms, replace alarms that have reached their expiration date, and keep yards and outdoor areas free of debris and combustible materials that can contribute to fire spread.

• Double-gated entry helps assure pet safety
• New reservable picnic shelter is near the dog park

Salem, Ore. – As Salem prepares to enter the dog days of summer, dogs and their owners shouldn’t find it too “ruff” with a new two-zone dog park set to open at Geer Community Park on June 5. The new dog park offers a thoughtful design to meet the needs of both dogs and their owners. Divided into two fenced zones, the park ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all pets:

• Gentle Zone (Zone A): For quiet, older or smaller dogs that prefer low-energy play
• Active Zone (Zone B): For energetic and playful dogs

Aggressive dogs are not allowed in either zone. Owners are responsible for their pets' behavior and must clean up after them to keep the park clean and safe. Dogs must remain under voice control at all times.

Additional Features
Each zone includes a double-gated entry to prevent escapes, small mounds for dogs to explore, extra tree plantings for shade and a grass swale, a low area intended to slow and filter runoff.

Accessibility Features
The dog park also includes amenities for people, such as:

• Paved paths for easy entry
• Comfortable covered seating for protection from sun and rain
• Dog water bowls with easy-reach activation buttons

New Reservable Picnic Shelter

With the opening of the dog park, a new picnic shelter will also become available for reservation. The shelter provides a convenient space for birthday parties, family picnics and other small gatherings, adding another amenity for community use of the park.
# # #

Off-duty Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue firefighters will take to the streets next week to once again Fill the Boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Tualatin Valley Firefighters Union Local 1660 members will ask passing motorists to drop a donation into their fire boots Friday, June 5, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway and Canyon Road on-ramps and off-ramps to Highway 217 in Beaverton.

All funds collected through Tualatin Valley Firefighters Union Local 1660’s 2026 Fill the Boot event support MDA’s life-enhancing programs, including support groups and clinics, and assist families with medical equipment and costs. They also make MDA summer camp possible so kids with muscle diseases can enjoy a week of fun activities while gaining confidence and independence. MDA serves more than 3,800 individuals across Oregon and 6,800 individuals in Washington who are affected by neuromuscular disease.

Since 1954, firefighters have fueled MDA’s mission to find treatments and cures for life-threatening muscle diseases. Muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and other related diseases take away people’s ability to walk, move, smile, talk, and even breathe.

To date, the International Association of Fire Fighters has raised more than $721 million for MDA, helping to fund over $1 billion in research.

“For 72 years, firefighters have proudly supported the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s mission to help families live longer, stronger lives, and I am honored to continue this partnership with Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue,” said Amanda Borror, MDA’s director of firefighter partnerships. “Every dollar raised in our community helps fund life-changing research and care that makes a difference for families nationwide.”

Since 2015, TVF&R firefighters have raised more than $425,700 for MDA. This year, TVF&R firefighters hope to raise $27,000 with the generous support of the community.

Local firefighters invite the community to join them in filling the boot for the MDA. Cash and checks made payable to MDA will be accepted at the Beaverton collection event. Secure online donations can also be made by clicking on the following link: Donate Here.

Free virtual series to help organizations strengthen security, continuity, and operational resilience

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in partnership with the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the state of Washington Emergency Management Division, and Albertsons Companies, is launching the 2026 Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series—a free virtual learning series designed to help organizations strengthen safety, continuity of operations, and emergency communications in an evolving risk environment.
 

The three-part series will bring together government, private sector, and security professionals to explore emerging asymmetrical threats and practical strategies to improve organizational resilience. Guided by CISA’s Insider Threat Mitigation framework, the seminars will focus on identifying behavioral indicators, strengthening layered defenses, and building cultures of vigilance and preparedness.

Participants will gain actionable insights to help detect, deter, and mitigate risks across physical security, cybersecurity, and the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI).
 

“Preparedness and resilience require strong partnerships across sectors,” Sonya McCormick, OEM’s public private partnership program manager, said. “This seminar series creates an opportunity for organizations to share lessons learned, strengthen security practices, and better prepare for emerging threats that impact operations, people and critical services.”

What participants can expect:

• Presentations from industry, academic, and government experts
• Best practices for strengthening critical infrastructure resilience
• Tools and resources to support preparedness and continuity planning
• Strategies to address physical and cyber security challenges
• Discussions on the growing role of artificial intelligence in security and resilience

2026 Seminar Schedule

Seminar 1: Mitigating Physical Security Risks by Creating Vigilant Workplaces
Date: June 4, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET
Explore strategies for controlling access, monitoring sensitive areas, and fostering a culture of awareness. Learn how physical safeguards and employee engagement can reduce opportunities for insider threats.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/2026P3Seminar1

Seminar 2: Strengthening Cyber Defense Against Insider Threats: Building a Culture of Digital Vigilance
Date: July 9, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET
Learn how to identify behavioral indicators in digital environments, implement layered cyber protections, and empower teams to report suspicious activity. This session focuses on proactive detection and secure practices.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/2026P3Seminar2

Seminar 3: Responsible AI Integration: Enhancing Preparedness and Implementation
Date: August 13, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET
Discover how AI can support insider threat programs through anomaly detection and risk analysis while emphasizing ethical use, transparency, and responsible implementation.

Register: https://tinyurl.com/2026P3Seminar3

Event Details

Format: Virtual
Cost: Free
Audience: Government agencies, private sector partners, emergency managers, business continuity professionals, security leaders, and resilience practitioners

About the Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series
The Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series fosters collaboration between public and private sector partners to strengthen preparedness, resilience, and continuity capabilities through shared learning, practical tools, and strategic discussion of emerging threats. For more information, please contact Sonya McCormick, Public Private Partnership Program Manager at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management at mick@oem.oregon.gov">Sonya.McCormick@oem.oregon.gov.

Medford, Ore. – Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) offices at 24 and 28 West Sixth Street in Medford closed Friday, April 24. Staff from the Aging and People with Disabilities, Oregon Eligibility Partnership and Vocational Rehabilitation programs have moved into nearby ODHS and other community offices to serve the community.

Here is where each program has moved:

• Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) moved to 2860 State Street, Medford.

Services include: Adult Foster Home Licensing: Inspection; Diversion/Transition Coordination; Adult Protective Services; Long Term Care Services and Supports; and Homecare worker Program.

• Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) moved to:

• 2860 State Street;
• 673 Market Street. Medford;
• Rogue Family Center 3131 Avenue C, White City.

Services include: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; Employment Related Day Care; Medical Programs; and

Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors. People can receive eligibility support and other services at any of the seven ODHS Southern Oregon offices. OEP staff are able to assist any person in need of eligibility services regardless of which office they visit.

• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) has moved to the Rogue Family Center, 3131 Avenue C, White City.

VR services are being provided in a variety of ways throughout Jackson County based on individual needs. Current VR participants should contact their counselor to determine the most appropriate meeting location. Individuals interested in applying for services should contact an ODHS office, and staff will work with them to identify a convenient meeting option.

Vocational Rehabilitation helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, maintain, or advance in employment. Services may include career counseling, training, job search assistance, assistive technology, and other employment supports.

To find an ODHS office: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx.

If people need to call for eligibility services, 800-699-9075; or visit online at https://one.oregon.gov.   

If you have questions, please contact:

Aging and People with Disabilities, Senior Services: 541-776-6222

Oregon Eligibility Partnership: 541-776-6172; Ashland – 541-482-2041; Medford Market – 541-776-6172; Rogue Family Center White City – 541-776-6160; Senior Services Medford – 541-776-6222; Grants Pass – 541-474-3101; Cave Junction – 541-592-4149

Vocational Rehabilitation: 541-776-6035

                                                                        # # #

SALEM, Ore. – Leaders from Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes, as well as artists and legislators, gathered Tuesday to recognize the installation of new works by artists throughout the state Capitol grounds as part of the completion of the 10-year renovation of Oregon’s Capitol building.

Hosted in the newly completed Capitol Plaza, the gathering included blessings of drumming and song as well as remarks from Tribal leaders:

• Chair Cheryl Kennedy of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
• Chair Delores Pigsley of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz
• Vice Chair Carlos Calica of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs with Wasco Chief Jefferson Greene
• Chair Carla Keene of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians
• Chair Kathryn Brigham of the Confederate Tribes of Umatilla
• Chief Doug Barrett and Julie Siestreem, member of the Tribal Council, of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians
• Chair William Ray Jr. of The Klamath Tribes

Also speaking to commemorate the occasion were artist Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D. (Nez Perce, Cayuse), Oregon Arts Commissioner David Harrelson (Grand Ronde-Kalapuya), Oregon Arts Commission Chair Jason Holland, House Speaker Julie Fahey and Senate President Robert Wagner.

The public may now experience the new artworks, which are both inside and outside the Capitol building. Learn more about visiting the Capitol at oregoncapitol.com.

The new public art was installed through the state’s Percent for Art in Public Places Program, managed by the Oregon Arts Commission. Oregon's legislation incorporating public art into state construction and renovation projects was established in 1975. The statute mandates that a fraction of a project budget goes toward art.

Each public art process is led by an art selection committee connected with the place and people the project will serve. The Oregon State Capitol’s committee began with a collective mission statement and goals for the art program to: illustrate and celebrate ideas of democracy; represent different lived experiences of Oregonians; expand artist representation; exist in many disciplines and be informed by ways in which these are expressed and embraced by different communities; spark thoughtfulness, engage interest and provide opportunities for education; and use accessible language, design and functionality.

Over the past 50 years, more than 2,600 artworks have been placed in public spaces throughout the state. Learn more about the Percent for Art in Public Places Program here and view Percent for Art in Public Places artworks online on the Oregon Arts Commission’s Percent for Art Collection site (state-of-oregon-art-collection.org).

NEW ART AT THE CAPITOL

Oregon Voices developed by Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D. (Nez Perce, Cayuse)

Cash Cash is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and a Cayuse/Nez Perce scholar, artist and cultural practitioner whose work engages Indigenous philosophy, language and knowledge systems. Trained in anthropology and Indigenous studies, his research and creative practice center on the relationships between orality, place and the transmission of cultural knowledge across generations.

Cash Cash developed Oregon Voices for the Capitol exterior in collaboration with Mayer/Reed Landscape Architects. The project brings forward words of Tribal leaders, Elders and Culture Bearers, drawn from historical and contemporary contexts. These texts are inscribed on large, natural boulders integrated into the main public entrance plaza as a space for recognition, engagement and understanding of the strength, sovereignty and worldview of the Indigenous peoples who lived on Oregon lands long before statehood.

“In this material translation, language is returned to the land in a permanent and public way,” Cash Cash said. “The stones function as markers of Indigenous presence, resilience and enduring systems of knowledge that have and continue to shape Oregon.”

Work on Oregon Voices will continue. In total, 50 texts will be selected for Oregon Voices and presented in a digital exhibition to amplify the physical space.

+++++++COOS///LOWER UMPQUA///SIUSLAW))) INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (((( 2026 >>>>>>> by Sara Siestreem (Hanis Coos)

Artist and educator Siestreem (b. 1976) created an etched glass piece at one main interior stairwell with designs from traditional basket weave patterns. Siestreem is a multidisciplinary artist from the Umpqua River Valley in Oregon, working in painting, photography, printmaking, weaving and large-scale installation. She combines the ceremonial traditions of her ancestors with contemporary modes and materials at the intersection of social and ecological justice, education and Indigenous feminism.

In 2025, Siestreem was inducted into the National Academy of Design and honored as a Hallie Ford Fellow in the Visual Arts. Her work is in collections including the Brooklyn Museum (Brooklyn, New York), Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (Berkeley, Calif.), Gochman Family Foundation (Miami, Fla.), Forge Project (Mahicannituck Valley, New York), Missoula Art Museum (Missoula, Mont.), Museum of Fine Arts (Boston) and the Portland Art Museum. She was included in the landmark 2023 book “An Indigenous Present,” conceived and edited by Jeffrey Gibson (Mississippi Choctaw/Cherokee).

Siestreem comes from a family of professional artists and educators. Her lifelong mentor is Lillian Pitt (Wasco, Warm Springs, Yakama) and her weaving teachers are Greg Archuleta (Grand Ronde) and Greg A. Robinson (Chinook Nation). Siestreem graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Portland State University in 2005. She earned a Master of Fine Arts with distinction from the Pratt Art Institute in 2007. She lives and works in Portland, and she is represented by the Elizabeth Leach Gallery.

Nature Oregoniana by Oliver Casillas

Another main interior stairwell now features an etched glass piece depicting the flora and fauna of Oregon by muralist and art educator Casillas.

Casillas (b. 1995) is a Mexican-American multidisciplinary artist, researcher and cultural practitioner whose work explores identity, memory, migration and collective storytelling. His practice draws from oral traditions, personal narratives and shared cultural experiences to create spaces for reflection, dialogue and belonging.

Casillas holds a Master’s Degree in Education and Expression for the Arts from the University of Guadalajara, a postgraduate specialization in Creativity and Project Development from the Université de Namur in Belgium and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from ITESO University. His interdisciplinary background informs an artistic practice that bridges conceptual development, technical execution and social engagement.

Casillas has developed projects that examine the experience of migration, cultural identity and the meaning of home. The Pacific Northwest resonates deeply with his own story, becoming both a source of inspiration and home. His work has been supported through multiple awards, grants and public commissions across the United States and Mexico.

Casillas has completed large-scale mural and public art projects, and his work has been exhibited in galleries, museums and public spaces in collaboration with cultural institutions, municipalities, universities and community organizations in Oregon and throughout Mexico.

Iliʔi, kusax̣, salt-tsəqw (Land, Air, Sea), a set of two cast bronze paddle groupings in raised courtyards by artists Shirod Younker (Coquille/Miluk Coos/Umpqua) and Tony A. Johnson (Chinook) working with carver and fabricator Adam McIsaac.

Johnson (b. 1970) is Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation. He is also a Chinuk Wawa language teacher. Johnson was born in South Bend, Washington, and studied Art and Anthropology at the University of Washington and Central Washington University. As an artist, cultural practitioner, writer and educator, his work has been central to the contemporary revitalization of Chinookan visual culture in the Lower Columbia River region.

A full-time artist, McIsaac (b. 1972) creates carved wooden and bronze sculptures, as well as paintings and prints. A prodigious non-Native carver and fabricator, McIsaac uses tools and materials based on Indigenous Northwest Coast carving traditions. He collaborates widely with local Indigenous communities, with a focus on the artistic traditions of the Columbia River Tribes. McIsaac lives and works in La Center, on the Columbia River in Southwestern Washington.

Younker (b. 1972) is a traditional carver and sculptor from Coos Bay. He studied at Oregon State University, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Applied Arts in 2001, and now lives in Portland. His practice centers relationships between material culture, environmental stewardship and intergenerational knowledge, with particular attention to the revitalization of traditional canoe and paddle forms and Indigenous design systems. Alongside his studio work, Younker has led and developed influential youth arts initiatives including Journeys in Creativity and Changing Currents.  

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts 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. The Arts Commission is part of Business Oregon in recognition of the vital role the arts play in supporting the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Oregon 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 artscommission.oregon.gov and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Salem, Ore. — Salem residents will soon see City crews and contractors on both banks of the Willamette River preparing for a new water line that will be able provide water for all of West Salem even following a major earthquake.

We have partnered with the Oregon Department of Transportation to replace an existing water line attached to the Center Street Bridge during that department’s upcoming seismic retrofit project. That project will prepare the bridge to better withstand earthquakes.  The new water line is being funded by City utility rate funds.

This new 36-inch water line will provide a seismically resilient crossing of the Willamette River.

To prepare for the new line, crews will need to install valves and connection points on our existing 24-inch water lines on either side of the river near the bridge. This will be done in two phases:

• June 1-5: Water line construction in Wallace Marine Park (under Center Street Bridge near the riverbank)
• June 8-26: Water line construction along Front Street NE (in median under the Center Street Bridge)
  • This work will be done at night (between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.) to minimize traffic impacts

Currently, three lines supply drinking water from the Geren Island Water Treatment Facility near Stayton to West Salem. None of these water lines were designed to survive a large earthquake. However, the new water line on the retrofitted Center Street Bridge will be designed to survive a major earthquake and will be large enough to serve all of West Salem.

There should be no traffic impact for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians from the work in West Salem. Overnight construction near Front Street NE will have some traffic impacts between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Pedestrians and motorists should use caution, expect some delays and follow traffic control signs. Work will require traffic control, including shifting travel lanes and rerouting pedestrians and cyclists around the work area.

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

Salem, Ore. —Last month the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) warned that 6,948 people were at risk of having SNAP benefits close at the end of April due to federally directed changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work rules. Those closures and reductions have now taken effect. The average SNAP benefit for affected cases was about $287 per month, money that would otherwise have been spent on groceries in local communities across Oregon.

Based on average benefit amounts, these closures and reductions represent nearly $2 million in SNAP benefits that will not be spent in Oregon communities this month.

An additional 6,309 people are currently at risk of having SNAP benefits close or reduce at the end of May. Because these changes could take effect soon, some people may not be able to prevent a June benefit loss before the end of the month. However, people should still contact ODHS. Even if SNAP benefits stop and a person’s EBT card does not have June benefits on it, they may still be able to regain benefits by meeting work rules, qualifying for an exemption or reporting a change in their situation.

The federal bill HR1 significantly expanded SNAP work rules, increasing the number of Oregonians subject to time limits. Adults ages 18 to 64 without a child under age 14 in their SNAP household may now need to meet work rules to continue receiving benefits unless they qualify for an exemption.

People who do not meet work rules and do not qualify for an exemption can only receive SNAP for three months within a three-year period. Each month a person does not meet work rules is called a “countable month” that counts toward the three-month limit.

For some SNAP participants, the cost of meeting work requirements can be difficult to manage. While the average SNAP benefit for affected cases was about $287 per month, the average monthly SNAP benefit for one adult statewide is about $183. That means a single adult receiving SNAP would receive the equivalent of about $2.29 per hour for the time spent completing 80 hours of required activities each month, before accounting for transportation or other costs.

“We want people to know they still have options. If you have questions about your SNAP benefits or think work rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact us. We’re here to help,” said Nate Singer, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Director. OEP staff help people with ABAWD status learn if they are already meeting the rules, qualify for an exemption or need support in getting a plan in place to keep their food benefits.

ODHS has been working to connect with people before benefits stop. In March, approximately 20,000 people were notified that their SNAP benefits could close if they did not meet work requirements or qualify for an exemption. About 6,000 people connected with ODHS and were able to keep their benefits by qualifying for an exemption or meeting work requirements.

Some people who lost benefits may still qualify for an exemption but did not connect with ODHS before benefits closed.

If someone has lost SNAP benefits due to work rules, there are several ways they may be able to regain eligibility.

People may qualify again if they:

• Meet work requirements
• Qualify for an exemption
• Report changes in their situation that affect whether work rules apply

People who need to meet work rules can receive free employment and training support through partnerships between ODHS, the Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon.

These services can help with:

• Job search and applications
• Training and education programs
• Resume building and interview preparation
• Support services like transportation

ODHS encourages anyone who may be affected by work rules to contact the agency as soon as possible. Benefits do not restart automatically after they stop. People who lose benefits at the end of May should still contact ODHS in June. Their EBT card may not have June SNAP benefits on it, but ODHS can help them understand what happened and what steps they can take to regain benefits if they are eligible.

For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo
• ODHS ABAWD Team:
• Call: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: benefits.oregon.gov
• Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
• In person or by phone: at any ODHS office
  • ODHS office finder in English and Spanish  

Roughly $36,000 in stolen merchandise was recovered and three people were arrested in a major Organized Retail Theft Task Force case.

On May 16, 2026, an Organized Retail Theft investigator for Ulta reported that a suspected Organized Retail Theft crew had stolen merchandise from several stores in the Seattle area earlier in the day and was currently in Washington County, Oregon. 

Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded, and a drone operator confirmed the suspect’s car, a Cadillac Escalade, was in a parking lot in the 20000 block of SW Tualatin Valley Highway. Arriving deputies found the car empty, but two of the three people matching the suspect’s description were standing nearby. They were identified as Nerielis Brinez-Brinez and Dayan Anarlo-Buckjones.  

The drone operator reviewed the footage and realized a third suspect had gotten out of the driver’s seat and ran into a nearby food truck. Deputies found and detained Albianys Melean-Gonzalez inside the food truck. Detectives from the Tigard Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office were called out to the scene and arrested all three suspects for theft in the first degree. Melean-Gonzalez was also arrested on a warrant from an unrelated 2025 theft case. 

A judge granted a search warrant for the car, and inside, detectives recovered roughly $36,000 worth of stolen fragrances and assorted merchandise from other retailers. 

“Washington County has a zero-tolerance policy for all types of crime, including retail theft,” said DA Kevin Barton. “Using a combination of local resources and grant funding, we have built a coalition of law enforcement agencies and retailers who help ensure businesses, employees, and customers are safe.” 

This joint investigation highlighted the partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and the Tigard Police Department Detective who is currently assigned to the Washington County District Attorney’s Office and is working as an Organized Retail Theft Detective. This position is funded through a $1.5 million grant awarded to the DA’s Office by the State of Oregon’s Organized Retail Theft Grant program. 

Drone footage of the suspects at the scene is available here: https://youtube.com/shorts/zk3wEEBbPJw.  

###

County employees honored for interagency leadership and partnership efforts

ST. HELENS, Ore., May 29, 2026 — Several Columbia County employees and partner agencies were recognized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Field Office during its 4th Annual Community Awards Ceremony for their collaboration and leadership in public safety efforts.

The FBI presented its Law Enforcement Leadership Award to the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office in collaboration with the Columbia County Department of Community Justice and the Oregon Youth Authority.

Columbia County honorees included:

• Joshua Pond, District Attorney
• Cody Coughlin, Deputy District Attorney
• Stacia Tyacke, Assistant Director, Department of Community Justice
• Liz Ring, Juvenile Probation Officer, Department of Community Justice Juvenile Division

Also recognized were Sarika Kathuria, Assistant Attorney General with the Washington State Office of the Attorney General, and Molly Matherly, Juvenile Parole/Probation Officer with the Oregon Youth Authority.

Columbia County Commissioners formally recognized the employees and partner agencies during the Board of County Commissioners public meeting on May 27, 2026.

“This recognition reflects the professionalism and dedication of the people serving our community every day,” said Kellie Smith, Chair of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. “Strong partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies play an important role in supporting public safety efforts across our region, and we are proud of the Columbia County employees who were recognized for their work.”

According to the FBI, the award recognizes agencies and personnel who demonstrated exceptional leadership and collaboration in support of public safety and community protection efforts. The FBI Portland Field Office presented the awards during a ceremony held May 21, 2026, at FBI headquarters in Portland. Additional information about the ceremony and award recipients is available at: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/portland/news/fbi-portland-hosts-4th-annual-community-awards-ceremony

The County values strong partnerships between law enforcement, community justice professionals, prosecutors, and public safety agencies working together to serve and protect Columbia County residents.

###

Photo captions

Photo 1 (Community_Awards_2026_FBI): Left to right: Liz Ring, Juvenile Probation Officer, Columbia County Department of Community Justice; Cody Coughlin, Deputy District Attorney; Joshua Pond, Columbia County District Attorney; and Stacia Tyacke, Assistant Director, Columbia County Department of Community Justice, receive the Law Enforcement Leadership Award during the FBI Portland Community Awards Ceremony on May 21, 2026.

Photo 2 (Community_Awards_2026_CC): Left to right: Casey Garrett, Columbia County Commissioner; Margaret Magruder, Columbia County Commissioner; Stacia Tyacke, Assistant Director, Columbia County Department of Community Justice; Joshua Pond, Columbia County District Attorney; Cody Coughlin, Deputy District Attorney; and Kellie Smith, Chair, Columbia County Board of Commissioners, during recognition of the FBI Law Enforcement Leadership Award recipients at the Columbia County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 27, 2026.

Salem, Ore - The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council will meet from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, online via Zoom. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.
Questions or concerns can be addressed to Elke Bruton, Program Manager at 971-375-3509 or elke.bruton@slo.oregon.gov. Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in an alternate format 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov.

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION AND LIBRARY SERVICES
ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
(Virtual)

• Welcome (Elke Bruton, 5 minutes)
• Public Comment(5 minutes)
• Approval of minutes from 3/10/2026 (5 minutes)
• Advisory Council Member Updates (30 minutes)
• State Librarian update (Wendy Cornelisen, 10 minutes)
• Manager updates (Elke Bruton, 10 minutes)
• Division Program Report (Website Redesign Update; Wren Kominos, 25 minutes)
• Meeting review
• Adjournment

Any person may address the Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any questions or issues raised to the State Librarian.

SALEM, Ore. – The State of Oregon has formally appealed FEMA’s decision to deny Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding under FEMA DR-4907 following the devastating December 15–21, 2025 storms that brought record flooding, landslides, mudslides, and severe winds across the state. The original declaration was for Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill counties with Clatsop and Wasco counties added later. 

While FEMA approved Public Assistance on April 7, 2026—which will help rebuild damaged public infrastructure and reimburse responding agencies and community organizations—the agency denied HMGP, providing no explanation or analysis for its decision despite the statewide severity of the damage and Oregon’s strong record of successful mitigation projects. 

“Oregon communities have endured extraordinary challenges, and many of them are still recovering from back-to-back disasters,” said Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “Hazard mitigation is one of the most effective tools we have to break the cycle of damage and recovery. HMGP funding will allow us to strengthen critical systems, protect lives and property, and ensure our communities are better prepared for the next severe weather event.” 

Severe and Widespread Impacts Across Oregon 

The December 2025 storm system delivered 2–5 inches of rain in lower elevations and 5–15 inches in higher terrain, with 73% of long- term snow-pack telemetry (SNOTEL) sites recording their highest or second-highest precipitation totals on record. The event caused: 

• 314,894 customers without power at the peak 
• Major closures on Interstate 5, Interstate 84, U.S. 101, and multiple state highways 
• Widespread landslides, road washouts, power infrastructure failures, and severe erosion 

Communities faced multiday outages and transportation disruptions that isolated residents. Evacuations reached 1,219 people at Level 3 (Leave Immediately). A joint preliminary damage assessment identified more than $15.4 million in eligible public infrastructure damages with rural counties such as Tillamook, Hood River, and Lincoln experiencing disproportionately high per-capita damage—Tillamook alone recorded $154.29 per capita, more than 30 times its federal indicator. Critical services, including water systems, wastewater facilities, and communications infrastructure, were disrupted across the region. 

Local Capacity Overwhelmed 

Local and state agencies were already stretched thin due to consecutive severe storms in December 2025, combined with ongoing recovery from multiple recent disasters, including 2024 wildfires and earlier winter storms. Rural and consumer-owned utilities faced repair costs far beyond normal operating budgets, leaving communities struggling to recover. 

Hazard Mitigation Funding is Essential 

HMGP provides resources for forward-looking, long-term risk reduction—projects not eligible under Public Assistance programs. Oregon has identified shovel-ready mitigation projects through the joint PDA process, including: 

• Row River Valley District water system upgrades 
• Clackamas County Water & Environment Services riverbank stabilization and utility protection 
• City of Sheridan hillside stabilization and water main relocation 

Mitigation investments have proven effective in Oregon. Lane County’s undergrounding of utilities significantly reduced outages in subsequent storms, and Tillamook County’s Southern Flow Corridor project has lowered flood levels and prevented routine closures of U.S. 101. Nationally, FEMA estimates that every $1 spent on mitigation saves up to $6 in future disaster costs. 

State Request 

The State of Oregon is requesting reversal of FEMA’s HMGP denial based on: 

• The severity, scale, and statewide impact of the December 2025 storms 
• Exhausted local and state capacity to manage long-term recovery 
• The absence of explanation or supporting analysis for FEMA’s denial 
• Oregon’s proven track record of successful, cost-saving mitigation projects 

Oregon is seeking HMGP funding statewide to rebuild stronger, reduce long-term disaster costs, and protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure from future severe weather events. 

Next Steps 

Oregon has submitted its formal appeal under 44 CFR §206.46(b), requesting that FEMA reverse its HMGP denial and authorize funding statewide. If approved, the state will immediately advance priority mitigation projects identified through the Joint FEMA-State Preliminary Damage Assessment. If it is denied, there will be no further appeals.

PF&R Responds to floating homes fire on the Columbia

At 3:50 AM PF&R was dispatched to the 1500 Block of N. Marine Drive with reports of a floating home on fire in the Pier West Floating Home Community located on the Columbia River south of Hayden Island at the base of the I5 Bridge from heading into Oregon. Responding crews could see the glow of the fire and see a heavy presence of smoke floating along the river to know there was a working fire upon their arrival as they approached. With 2 floating homes showing heavy fire and the flames impinging upon the surrounding homes located a few feet apart, quick actions needed to be taken immediately.

Truck 8 arrived to see residents of the homes dipping buckets into the river and tossing onto flames in an attempt at extinguishing the fire. The crew located the gangplank access of the docks and immediately moved into addressing life safety concerns by directing the members of the "community bucket brigade" to get onto land away from the fire while starting to make any available rescue. One home was already completely consumed by fire and not survivable, so the crew made entry into the other home showing heavy fire to be turned back by the flames and heat on the interior. They moved to the next home, made entry, roused the occupants from their sleep and escorted them to safety uninjured. All other residents were aware of the significant fire located at the end of the dock and were either safe on land or sheltering in place in their homes a distance away from the main body of fire. (It was discovered after the flames were extinguished that all occupants in the two fire affected homes were safe and uninjured.)

The next arriving crews were focused on water supply and fire suppression. The Fire Department Connection (FDC) that supplies the standpipes that run the length of the dock was located and pumped into by Engine 26 with Engine 14 and Engine 24 involved with carrying hose lines on their shoulders and connecting to the standpipe connections at the dock to use in applying water onto the homes that were burning. Engine 22 joined in the suppression actions along with acting as the land side focused rescue team if needed.

A second alarm assignment was requested with a possible need for a longer lay in connection to a different fire hydrant that would have required multiple engines to successfully complete. Additionally, with multiple homes already being consumed with fire and 2 others being impinged upon by the body of fire, the command officer was quickly going through all the responders assigned on the first alarm response. Not many of the second alarm companies were assigned to perform much work as the first alarm assignment was able to work through the challenges of the scene and reduce the flames quickly without the need for replacement. Truck 13 of the second alarm was directed to provide mcuh needed lighting as best possible as the available lights on the dock itself were quite minimal.

Fire Boat 80 from PDX Airport Fire responded alongside PF&R Fire Boat 17 stationed on Hayden Island who were addressing the incident from the water with FB 17 focused as the water side rescue team if any firefighter fell into the river, the fire boat would be assigned rescue, FB 80 was assigned to pump water from the river and apply water on the most damaged home using their deck gun/turret.

The significant body of fire from the 2 homes had so much heat radiating off that a home under construction 50’ away was charred on the face closest to the fire. A fire crew was assigned to this home to ensure the fire did not extend any further and cause more damage.

All fire threat was eliminated in the initial 20 minutes of the incident with the long mop up process continuing through the rest of the day. The PF&R-PPB Fire Investigations Unit is on scene interviewing residents and performing a physical forensic evaluation to determine cause. There were 2 floating homes completely lost in this fire, 1 under construction that received a bit of charring, and a fourth that had a screen door pulled away making entry for rescue. All other homes were unaffected. There were no injuries reported.

Addressing a fire on a floating home presents many different challenges to responding firefighters. Portland Fire & Rescue has a rule that when firefighters are working on or around water, they are required to always wear a life jacket or personal floatation device. This is best placed under the turnout coat but may be placed on the top of the coat and under the air pack but in either location the added bulk makes firefighting tasks a bit more challenging. The water supply can be difficult with few hydrants and locating the FDC in the dark may slow down the process of getting water to the nozzle. The numerous tripping hazards present along the walkway increase the danger and chances a firefighter may trip and end up in the river with all of their gear and perhaps a tool. Lastly, the homes are simply lashed to a cleat on the dock that can be burned through and find the home ablaze floating freely in the river.

Portland Fire would like to thank PDX Airport Fire and their assistance from their fireboat. Additionally, PF&R appreciates the response across the river from 3 Vancouver Fire Engines that responded on the second alarm request. Lastly, we would like to thank PGE and their response to address the concerns of the electrical system supporting all the floating homes in the community. 

Something to take note of this incident is the very last few hours of the on-duty deputy chief’s career with Chief Aimee Rooney officially retiring at 8 AM, the time of PF&R Shift Change. Chief Rooney responded to the incident, coordinated base to liaise between the command officer to assign and direct the second responders. Chief Rooney also focused her efforts on those affected by the fire and liased on their behalf with the Red Cross to ensure everyone was safely taken care of. This incident was her last moment of impact in a 30 year career of huge impacts to PF&R including being honored as the PF&R Firefighter of the Year over a decade ago. 

• First Alarm Assignment:
  • Engine 14 - Vernon Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Engine 22 - St. John's Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Engine 24 - Overlook Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Engine 26 - University Park Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Truck 8  - Arbor Lodge Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Truck 22 - St John's Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • Fireboat 17 - Hayden Island - 4 Members
  • Fireboat 80 - PDS Airport - Staffed by their appropriate number of crew members to operate.
  • C2 - Command Officer of the incident - Single Battalion Chief
  • C1 - Safety Chief - Single Battalion Chief
  • C103 - On Duty Deputy Chief - Coordinated with residents
• Second Alarm Assignment Assigned work:
  • Engine 13 - Lloyd District - 4 Members
  • Truck 13 - Lloyd District - 4 Members
  • Rehab 5 - Hillsdale Neighborhood - 4 Members
  • C4 - Coordinated Base - Single Battalion Chief
  • PIO 350 - Coordinated with Media on scene - Single PF&R Firefighter 
• Total on scene - just short of 50 firefighters working this incident with 16 that responded and not assigned any work.

###

The June Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Work Session will be held June 2, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on June 2, 2026

The Board meeting agenda and packet and additional information regarding TVWD are available here.

About TVWD 

TVWD serves about 61,000 customers in parts of Washington County, Oregon. Our service area covers more than 41 square miles including portions of Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and unincorporated Washington County.

TVWD is the managing agency for the Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS), an additional water supply for the region which is being constructed in partnership with the City of Hillsboro and the City of Beaverton. The WWSS includes intake facilities, over 30 miles of pipes, a water treatment plant and two storage reservoirs. The system will deliver fresh, high-quality, treated water from the Willamette River to 400,000 Washington County residents and businesses, and is being built to the highest seismic safety standard to recover quickly after a major earthquake. The investments in the system will provide reliable, quality drinking water for generations to come.

05.28.26 - Female Arrested Following Theft in Yachats

On May 28, 2026, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a theft in the 500 block of Highway 101 in Yachats. Deputies learned a female suspect had entered a local business and stolen items. After reviewing video evidence of the theft, a deputy identified Danielle Condley as the suspect and located her behind the Yachats City Hall.

When the deputy contacted Condley and informed her she was being detained for the theft, Condley began to walk away, staggering her stance and obstructing her right hand from view. Condley shouted not to come near her as she attempted to leave the scene. The deputy reiterated his instructions and moved into a position to prevent Condley from escaping. Condley backed away from the deputy and removed a knife from her pocket. As she pulled the knife, Condley lost control of the weapon, dropping it to the ground. Both Condley and the deputy proceeded to reach for the knife, with Condley gaining possession. The deputy quickly tackled Condley to ground to prevent her from using the weapon and gave her commands to drop the knife. Condley was disarmed and placed in handcuffs.

The deputy on scene requested cover units respond as Condley was actively attempting to escape the deputy’s physical restraint. Additional deputies, alongside the Oregon State Police, arrived and assisted in taking Condley into custody without further incident. No injuries were reported and the stolen property was recovered.

Condley was charged with Theft in the Third degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Resisting Arrest.

###

PORTLAND, Ore.— Gene Arnold McLenithan, 58, of Salem, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with kidnapping and attempted abusive sexual contact in Tillamook County.

According to court documents and statements made in court, McLenithan allegedly kidnapped the two victims around midnight on July 4, 2024, camping along a public hiking trail in Tillamook County. McLenithan bound the victims, covered their eyes, and, after a period of time passed, told victims he had planned to sexually assault them.

Prior to the assault, the victims did not know McLenithan.

McLenithan made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Rochat is prosecuting the case.

If you have any reason to believe you or someone you know may be a victim or have additional information about other potential crimes involving McLenithan, please contact the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at https://tips.fbi.gov.

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

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging a Coos Bay, Oregon, woman after she allegedly embezzled money while working as a bank manager.

Heather Lynn Casas, 44, has been charged with bank theft, embezzlement, or misapplication by a bank officer or employee.

According to court documents and statements made in court, from August 2024 through December 2024, Casas, while working as a bank manager for a bank in Coos Bay, stole approximately $1.9 million from the bank.

Casas made her initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. She was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on August 24, 2026.

If convicted, Casas faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a fine of $1,000,000.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a firearms trafficking ring, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Freddy John Bish, 52, was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in September 2025, Bish drove a vehicle with 12 firearms from Oregon to California to meet an unidentified co-conspirator in Central California who planned to take the guns to Mexico. California Highway Patrol stopped Bish and seized the weapons.

On November 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Bish with conspiracy to traffic firearms and trafficking firearms.

On January 21, 2026, Bish pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic firearms.

The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case with assistance from Tigard Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Sherwood Police Department, and California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Maloney prosecuted the case.

This arrest is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

# # #

The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), will not require non-motorized boat operators to have a waterway access permit in conjunction with free fishing, clamming and crabbing days.

In 2019, when the Waterway Access Permit program was approved by the Oregon Legislature, with an exemption for permit requirements on ODFW-designated Free Fishing Days. In 2025, the program was expanded, requiring all lengths of non-motorized boats to purchase a waterway access permit when operating a boat on the water. One hundred percent (100%) of the revenue supports two important programs: aquatic invasive species watercraft inspection stations, managed by ODFW, and non-motorized access development and facility improvements via OSMB boating facility grants to public facility owners wanting to improve access specifically serving paddlers.

Per ODFW, no fishing/shellfish licenses or tags/validations are required on these days (meaning you do not need a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement, Ocean Endorsement or two-rod validation where two rods are allowed). Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free. Oregon State Parks also offers free parking on Saturday, June 6.

Existing exemptions include youth 13 and younger, surfboards, sailboards and kiteboards, and non-motorized boats under 10 feet engaged in whitewater recreation activities on a Marine Board Whitewater Exempt Waterways void of any developed access sites. See a list of exemptions on the Marine Board’s Waterway Access Permit FAQ page.

Read ODFW’s Free Fishing Days news release and what rules apply.

For people new to non-motorized boating, visit the Marine Board’s map of waterways designated as restricted motor or electric motor only to help you plan your weekend adventure.

-End-

The Ridgefield School District has once again earned a clean audit from the Washington State Auditor’s Office, continuing its record of strong financial management and operational transparency. The audit reviewed the district’s financial statements for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, and accountability compliance with laws and regulations for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 fiscal years. As a result of their review, the State Auditor’s Office found no deficiencies, material weaknesses, or areas of concern.
 

“As stewards of public funds, our highest obligation is to ensure that every dollar entrusted to our District is managed with the utmost integrity, transparency, and care. Public resources do not belong to the state; they belong to the people. Because of this, we must hold ourselves to the highest possible standards of financial oversight.” said Paula McCoy, Ridgefield School District’s Executive Director of Business Services. “Our Business and Central Services team remains committed to meeting all state and federal requirements while ensuring resources are managed responsibly in support of students, staff, and schools.” 
 

Each year, the State Auditor’s Office independently examines school district operations to ensure accuracy, accountability, and adherence to applicable laws and regulations. The most recent audit assessed the Ridgefield School District’s financial reporting, internal controls, and use of public resources.
 

“We appreciate the careful work of both the State Auditor’s Office and our Business Services team,” said Superintendent Dr. Jenny Rodriquez. “Receiving a clean audit highlights our district’s strong commitment to sound financial practices, accountability, and openness with our community. We remain dedicated to earning and maintaining the confidence of our students, families, staff, and community members through responsible stewardship of public resources.”
 

The full audit report is available on the Washington State Auditor’s Office website at https://sao.wa.gov and on the district website at thersd.org/Audit2024-25.
 

Ridgefield School District recognized at annual WASBO conference

Ridgefield School District was recently recognized at the Washington Association of School Business Officials’ (WASBO) annual conference in Tacoma as one of just nine school districts in Washington state to receive the Washington State Auditor’s Stewardship Award (SASA).
 

Presented by the Washington State Auditor’s Office, the Stewardship Award recognizes local governments, school districts, and state agencies that demonstrate exceptional financial accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility during the audit process. Out of more than 2,400 local and state agencies audited each year, only a select few receive this distinction annually.
 

To qualify for the Stewardship Award, organizations must earn clean audits with no findings, maintain strong internal financial controls, and work proactively with auditors to safeguard public resources. “This recognition reflects Ridgefield School District’s ongoing commitment to responsible stewardship and transparent financial practices in service to students, staff, families, and the community,” said Executive Director of Business Services Paula McCoy.
 

McCoy also participated as a presenter to share RSD’s budget development process with chief fiscal officers across Washington State. “Over the past two years, our Central Services team has worked hard to commit to zero-based budgeting and position management systems to ensure the long-term fiscal health of the district,” said Superintendent Dr. Jenny Rodriquez. “Through thoughtful and intentional decision-making, we are steering Ridgefield through the challenges facing all public school districts in our state.”
 

For more information about Ridgefield School District’s finances, please visit thersd.org/finance.

Beaverton, OR — On Thursday, May 28, 2026, at approximately 2:18 a.m., officers with the Beaverton Police Department responded to multiple reports of gunfire at the Monte Vista Apartments located at 14848 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Beaverton, Oregon.

Multiple callers reported hearing gunshots in rapid succession outside one of the apartment buildings. Additional callers advised a gray sedan was seen leaving the area immediately after the shooting.

Responding officers located shell casings in the parking lot and discovered a nearby vehicle had been struck by gunfire. At the time of the shooting two adult males were seated in the targeted vehicle. Neither of the men were hit by the gunfire and no injuries were reported.

During the investigation, officers identified the suspect as Karl Armstrong Jr., 51, of Beaverton. Officers located Armstrong a short distance from the scene and took him into custody without incident. Investigators later recovered a firearm believed to be used in the incident.

Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an ongoing dispute involving individuals connected to the apartment complex.

Armstrong was lodged at the Washington County Jail on charges of Attempted Murder, Attempted Assault 1, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Beaverton Police Department at 503-526-2280 and reference case number 26-1480086.

###

Update 5/28/26

That's all folks..

Milwaukie Police would like to acknowledge and affirm the Clackamas County Court's decision today on sentencing for Loony John Franklin Kolb Toon. We would like to thank the Portland Police Bureau patrol and SERT, Clackamas County Sheriffs office tactical teams, City of Lake Oswego Communications (LOCOM) the US Marshals office and the Clackamas County District Attorney’s office for their support and work on this case.

This incident is another example of the uncertain moments Law Enforcement routinely encounter in the course of their duties.

Below is a link to a video compilation of the incident including body worn camera, local surveillance video, and LOCOM dispatch audio to provide some additional context to the events that transpired on June 20th 2025. 

https://youtu.be/_44I2-dyuAQ

<end>

Update 6:30 PM 6/23/25

Sandy, OR – On 6/23/25 The US Marshals, which includes detached local Law Enforcement members, served an arrest warrant on Loony John Franklin Toon, with the assistance of the Clackamas County Interagency Crisis Negotiation and SWAT in the 41000 block of SE Vista Loop of Sandy. Due to the severity of the charges including the potential presence of weapons, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Team members were called upon to develop and implement a plan to contact and arrest Mr. Toon.  After a short non-violent interaction with CCSO SWAT and CNT members, Mr. Toon was taken into custody without incident.

This concluded a three-day search for Mr. Toon by the US Marshal’s service and Milwaukie Police. Mr. Toon will be lodged at the Clackamas County Jail on charges of Attempt Murder in the First Degree, Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Possession of Weapons by Certain Felons, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Police Officer, Failure to Perform the Duties of Driver Property Damage, Reckless Endangering another Person, and Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, in addition to an Oregon State Parole Board warrant and an arrest warrant obtained by the Milwaukie Police for the current above-mentioned charges some of which carry multiple counts.

During the initial investigation, Milwaukie investigators applied for several search warrants and obtained valuable evidence from community members. These details support evidence that multiple gunshots were fired in the direction of Officers during the prior incident.

The Milwaukie Police Department would like to thank the US Marshal’s service, The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Interagency SWAT/CNT team, which is comprised of men and women from The Sheriff’s Office along with Police agencies in Clackamas County specially trained in resolution of often hostile and dangerous crisis situations, and The Portland Police Bureau Patrol and SERT.  These collaborative partnerships resulted in resolution of this search in the safest manner for the community, your law enforcement professionals, and Mr. Toon.

The Milwaukie Police Department would like to further thank the community for their assistance during the search and participating through our tip line which did provide useful information leading up to the apprehension of Mr. Toon. This investigation is ongoing; there is still work to do in the fact-finding phase. The Milwaukie Police Department would appreciate tips about the June 20^th incident involving Mr. Toon. Those tips can be shared by emailing police@milwaukieoregon.gov or calling the tip line at 503-786-7425

Update: Additional photos of suspect vehicle and damage added. 

Shots fired at Officers during vehicle pursuit of wanted subject | City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

Milwaukie – OR At approximately 2:45 AM on 6/20/25 a Milwaukie Police Officer on patrol observed a vehicle traveling Westbound on SE Hwy 224 in Milwaukie. The Officer saw the driver weaving between the Westbound lanes of travel and initiated a traffic stop. The dark colored SUV stopped at the 11000 Block of SE Oak St. where the Officer contacted the male driver and a female passenger.

After identifying the driver, the Milwaukie Officer learned he had an active felony warrant and a cover Officer arrived. Due to the time of night, seriousness of the warrant offense and potential for escape, Officers placed a tire deflation device (spike strip) under the rear tires, positioning their patrol vehicles in front and back of the car to limit escape options.

Officers contacted the driver, identified as Loony John Franklin Toon, 42, of Portland. Toon did not exit the vehicle, placed the car in reverse hitting a Milwaukie Police vehicle. As the SUV drove out of the stop location it ran over the spike strips and sped out of the area on SE Hwy 224 reaching speeds of 80 mph.

Milwaukie Officers pursued the SUV West on SE Hwy 224 and North on SE 17th Ave. During the chase, the driver displayed a pistol out the window and fired multiple shots in the direction of the trailing Milwaukie Officers.

As the rear tires began deteriorating and the SUV was driving on the rims, the vehicle came to a stop At the 2600 Block of SE Tacoma St. in Portland. When Officers contacted the occupants, Toon had fled the scene. Portland Police Officers arrived and began searching for Toon. The female remained and cooperated with the investigation.

During the chase no Police Officers were injured or police vehicles struck by bullets. No Officers dicharged thier firearms.

Anyone with information about Toon or this incident is asked to contact Detective Meier at meierk@milwaukieoregon.gov(link sends e-mail) or calling the Milwaukie Police Tip Line at 503-786-7425.

If you see Mr. Toon do not approach, call 911. Additional information may be shared by the Portland Police as they continue their search.

May 28, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above recreational use value. The wildlife refuge is in Klamath County.

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

OHA encourages people to visit Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching and canoeing. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

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

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

Symptoms for people, pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size, level of activity, and likelihood of ingesting water.

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

Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crusts along the shore. This is regardless of whether a recreational use health advisory in place. Symptoms in dogs can include difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and more.  If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible. OHA recommends keeping dogs on leashes, away from affected water and mat material, to help reduce the chance of exposure.

Fishing

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

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

###

WHAT: Nurse practitioners, physician associates and certified nurse midwives (collectively referred to as advanced practice providers or APPs) will hold a rally at Elizabeth Caruthers Park on Friday, May 29 at noon.  

The APPS are rallying to demand that OHSU follow their contract, stop recently implemented workload changes, and bargain a solution that will meet the needs of patients while ensuring safe working conditions. 

WHEN: Friday, May 29, 2026, at noon 

WERE: Elizabeth Caruthers Park, 3508 S Moody Ave, Portland 

WHO: Remarks will be delivered by OHSU APPs. 

WHY: In December 2025, APPs from OHSU negotiated their first contract after nearly two years of bargaining. The contract included groundbreaking workload protections. Recently, OHSU management unilaterally implemented workload changes which will double the number of patients APPs are scheduled to see; resulting in rushed appointments and less time with every patient. ONA believes that OHSU is legally required to bargain over these changes and is not allowed to unilaterally implement them. The APPs are worried that the changes will harm patient care and cause more APPs to leave OHSU. 

APPs are integral to OHSU’s role as a premier academic and cancer center. They are also responsible for educating future healthcare providers and maintaining the university’s position as the only comprehensive academic health center in Oregon.

The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board meeting will be held Thursday June 4, 2026 at Noon. 

Location: This meeting will not be held at Willamette Water Supply Office 1500 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite 305, Beaverton, OR 97006.

To attend this meeting remotely. click the “Join Meeting” link above from your laptop or mobile device, or dial in using the provided phone number and meeting ID.

For any questions, to request accommodations, or to participate in public comment, contact us at wwss@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957.

The meeting is accessible to people with disabilities, individuals requiring qualified bilingual interpreters, and those needing assistance to participate remotely.  Any person requiring a hearing-impaired interpreter, bilingual interpreter, a physical meeting location due to lack of access to necessary equipment or internet, or other accommodations must provide notice at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

If you wish to address the WWSS Board, please request the Public Comment Form and return it 48 hours prior to the day of the meeting.  

The Board meeting agenda packet and additional information regarding the Willamette Water Supply Systems are available on the WWSS Commission website: 

https://www.tvwd.org/willamette-water-supply-system-commission/page/willamette-water-supply-system-commission

EXECUTIVE SESSION:  Prior to the regular board meeting, an executive session of the Board is called under ORS 192.660 (2)(e) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to negotiate real property transactions, under ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection and ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed, will be held 11:15 – 11:45 AM.

Per Presiding Judge Order 26-002: Beginning Monday, June 1, 2026, everyone entering the Polk County Courthouse through the public entrance will be subject to security screening. This is to prevent weapons and other prohibited items from being brought into the facility.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                  

Incident: Armed Person/ Burglary 1

Location: 500 Block NW 54^th Street, Newport

Date/Time: May 27^th, 2026 @ 6:15 PM

Details: On May 27^th, 2026, at approximately 1815 HOURS, Newport officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of NW 54^th Street on the report of an armed subject, later identified as Dominic Robert Fashbaugh, 49 of Newport, being at the location without permission.

Newport Officers responded to the area and began gathering additional information. Officers learned Fashbaugh was known by the homeowner, who was currently out of town, but did not have the homeowner’s permission to be at the residence. The homeowner reported they were watching Fashbaugh through remote security cameras as Fashbaugh was unloading firearms from his vehicle and carrying them into the residence. The homeowner also reported Fashbaugh was outside walking around the driveway with an AR15 style rifle.

Newport Police, Oregon State Police, and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office all responded to the area and began setting up a perimeter. The Lincoln County Interagency Tactical Response Team (TRT) was activated and responded to the scene.

Fashbaugh exited the house and began walking down the road where he was contacted and detained by officers on scene. Fashbaugh had two handguns concealed on his person at the time he was detained, as well as two knives, brass knuckles, and padlock that had been altered to make an impact weapon. TRT cleared the residence and discovered Fashbaugh had begun fortifying the interior of the residence. He had blockaded doors and entry points using boards and tools, and he had begun concealing weapons in various points within the home. Officers located a shotgun and an AR15 rifle belonging to Fashbaugh inside the home.

Fashbaugh was transported to the Lincoln County Jail where he was lodged on the following crimes:

DOMINIC ROBERT FASHBAUGH, 49, OF NEWPORT, OR

• Burglary 1
• Criminal Trespass 1
• Carrying of Concealed Weapons
• Criminal Mischief 2

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

Information Released By: Lt Haynes, 541-574-3348

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May 28, 2026

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

Vaccination rates for Oregon students reach new low; nonmedical exemptions at new high

Most families choose to vaccinate children, but more than a third of Oregon schools at risk of measles outbreak

PORTLAND, Ore.—State health officials urge parents and guardians to check their school’s vaccination rate to help families understand the local risk of a disease outbreak, especially for children who are not up to date on the MMR vaccine for measles.

Parents and caregivers can see vaccination rates for individual schools on OHA’s School Immunization Data dashboard.

Kindergarteners and nonmedical exemptions

For the 2025-2026 school year, Oregon’s rate of nonmedical exemptions for required school vaccines for kindergarteners has climbed to a record high of 10.9%—up from 6.9% in the 2021-2022 school year.

Only 85.6% of kindergarteners were up to date on required vaccines, according to data, continuing an overall downward trend that began a decade ago. The steepest decline happened during the last four years—a 3-percentage point drop since the 2021-2022 school year, when the rate was 88.4%.

“Although the vast majority of families in Oregon are still choosing to protect families through vaccination, the downward trends are deeply concerning,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., PhD., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. “We risk seeing the return of diseases such as measles and polio—diseases of the past that once caused widespread harm but are entirely preventable with vaccines.”

The vaccine with the highest rate of kindergarten nonmedical exemptions is the second dose of the measles vaccine (MMR) at 9.4%, up from 4.9% 10 years ago, a 92% jump. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, and the best way to prevent infection is to get vaccinated.

The vaccine with the second highest rate of kindergarten nonmedical exemptions is the DTaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis rates in Oregon hit a 75-year high in 2025—1,475 cases.

Pertussis and measles cases have also risen to record highs in the past year nationally.

K-12 students

While the majority of K-12 students statewide, 90.2%, is up to date on required vaccinations, pockets of risk remain in individual schools. These pockets of risk at schools exist in all 36 counties in Oregon.

“Even when overall vaccination rates are high at the state or county level, that can sometimes hide significant risk at an individual school, so parents should not assume their local schools will also be well protected,” Chiou said. “We encourage families to look at the immunization rates for their child’s school to better understand personal and community risks.”

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 92% to 94% of the population needs to be immune to measles, through vaccination or previous infection, to prevent or limit the spread of infections in a community. Chiou says Oregon’s public health system strives for a 93% vaccination rate to achieve herd immunity.

Currently, more than one in three (36%) Oregon schools with 10 or more students in grades K-12 report MMR vaccination rates under 93% and are therefore at high risk of a measles outbreak.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Troutdale woman was sentenced to federal prison for conspiring to violate the Clean Water Act by receiving and discharging 500,000 gallons of industrial wastewater contaminated with hydrofluoric acid and toxic metals to the sanitary sewer without approval.

Kayla Hartley, 36, was sentenced to 5 months in federal prison, a $25,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, from February through September 2020, Hartley, as the Director of Operations at the Northwest Slurry Solutions and Hydro Excavation, LLC (“Northwest Slurry”) facility in Hillsboro, Oregon, marketed the company as able to accept and dispose of industrial wastewater, despite having no permit or authorization to discharge that type of waste. Under Hartley’s leadership, Northwest Slurry accepted approximately 500,000 gallons of industrial wastewater containing chemical pollutants including hydrofluoric acid, titanium, molybdenum, vanadium, arsenic, and other heavy metals. Northwest Slurry discharged those half-a-million gallons of pollution to the Hillsboro sanitary sewer.

When staff from Clean Water Services, which operates the sanitary sewer system in Hillsboro, visited Northwest Slurry’s facility, Hartley attempted to conceal the fact that her company was discharging industrial wastewater.

On July 15, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Hartley with conspiracy to violate and violating the Clean Water Act.

On January 21, 2026, Hartley pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Clean Water Act.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from Clean Water Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew T. Ho and Special Assistant United States Attorney Gwendolyn Russell prosecuted the case.

This case was an Environmental Crimes Task Force (ECTF) investigation. ECTF is an initiative in the District of Oregon that identifies, investigates, and prosecutes significant environmental, public lands, and wildlife crimes. ECTF leverages the resources and effort of federal, state, and local regulatory agencies and law enforcement to protect human health, safeguard natural resources and wildlife, and hold violators accountable. If you witness an event that may lead to an immediate threat to human health or the environment, please call 9-1-1. After alerting local emergency authorities, please also report incidents to the EPA’s Report a Violation website (https://echo.epa.gov/report-environmental-violations) or by calling the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802.

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Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto recently appointed David Kuhnhausen as Director of the county’s Community Development Department. His first day will be Monday, June 1.

Kuhnhausen most recently served as interim director of the City of Portland’s Permitting and Development bureau. He worked at the City of Portland for almost two decades serving in several positions including Permitting Services Division Manager and project coordinator.

Kuhnhausen holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in business administration, finance and management from the University of Oregon.

“We are excited to have David join our team,” says County Manager Kathleen Otto. “He takes to heart the importance of public service and the direct impact in our community. David has been successful in developing collaborative relationships with the public as well as internal and external stakeholders; enhancing the customer experience through streamlining processes and optimizing operational efficiencies.”

"I am honored by the opportunity to lead Clark County Community Development and am excited to get started!” says Kuhnhausen. “Clark County continues to grow at a rapid rate, and I am committed to working with both staff and the development community to ensure we continue to provide exceptional customer service, that we are evolving to meet industry needs, and that we are upholding safety requirements and service that our communities expect."

The county’s Community Development Department oversees many divisions including the Permit Center, Building Safety, Development Engineering, Animal Protection and Control and the Fire Marshal’s Office. More information is available on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-development.

Young entrepreneurs from across the Happy Valley/Clackamas community will gather at City Hall on May 28th to launch a year of business, mentorship, and community connection.

The City of Happy Valley, in partnership with the Happy Valley Business Alliance (HVBA), is proud to launch the third annual Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program with a kickoff event on Wednesday, May 28, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Happy Valley City Hall.

Now entering its third year, the program has reached a major milestone with a record-breaking number of applications-30 to be exact, making 2026 the largest and most successful year in the program’s history. In response to overwhelming community interest, the city has expanded participation opportunities to welcome as many young entrepreneurs as possible.

“This program is about more than running a business it’s about building confidence, learning new skills, and turning ideas into reality,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “It’s inspiring to see so many young people in our community step up this year. They represent the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Happy Valley such a special place.”

The Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program is a year-long initiative designed for students in grades K–12 throughout the Happy Valley and Clackamas community who want to transform their handmade products or services into real-world business experience. Through mentorship from local business leaders and hands-on selling opportunities at signature City events, participants gain practical skills in branding, pricing, customer service, marketing, and booth operations.

Kickoff Event TONIGHT-May 28th 

The kickoff workshop is new this year and will bring together accepted entrepreneurs, parents, mentors, volunteers, and local business owners for an evening focused on learning, inspiration, and connection.

Mayor Tom Ellis will open the event alongside welcome remarks from Happy Valley Business Alliance President Rene Canler Guest speakers and local residents:  Eric Post of Huzi AI, and his daughter Alyssa Post of Oregon State University will share insights on entrepreneurship, branding, and goal-setting.

2026 Selling Opportunities

Throughout the year, Youth Entrepreneurs will showcase and sell their products at several of Happy Valley’s signature community events, including:

• 4th of July Family Festival
• Summer Concert on August 20 featuring Fleetwood Mac tribute band Taken By the Sky
• Oktoberfest on October 3
• Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6

New this year, participants will also have an opportunity to set up a booth and sell at the Happy Valley Farmers Market on August 8. 

The Happy Valley Youth Entrepreneur Program continues to grow as a reflection of the community’s commitment to supporting young leaders, fostering creativity, and building meaningful connections between youth and local businesses. Through the partnership between the City of Happy Valley and the Happy Valley Business Alliance, the program provides students with real-world opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to our vibrant community.

Groups can request a speaker on the county’s website

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commissioners are available to meet community members and visit neighborhood associations, religious groups, community organizations and others to discuss possible charter amendments.

Organizations interested in booking a Charter Review Commissioner to speak are asked to complete a form on the county’s website.

The Commission has scheduled a series of town hall meetings to get feedback from county residents. The town hall events will be held in each of the five county council districts.

The remaining town hall meetings are scheduled as follows:

• District 3: 2 to 4 pm Sunday, June 14, Community Room, Cascade Park Library, 600 NE 136^th Ave.
• District 4: 3 to 5 pm Saturday, June 6, second floor meeting room, Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4^th Ave.
• District 5: 1 to 3 pm Sunday, June 7, Moulton Falls Room, Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St.

Town halls were held previously for Districts 1 and 2.

Charter Review Commissioners will present information on proposed amendments to the county’s charter, seek feedback from town hall participants, and answer questions about the commission’s work. Anyone wishing to provide written comment to the commission may do so via the county’s website.

More information on the Commission’s events is available at https://clark.wa.gov/charter/events.

Any changes to the charter recommended by the Charter Review Commission must go to a countywide vote in a general election. The review commission has set a target of Aug. 4, for submitting any potential changes to the charter to the county Auditor for the November 2026 general election ballot.

Clark County’s home rule charter is the county’s rulebook for how its government is set up and how it operates. It defines roles, powers, elections and processes. It doesn’t set day-to-day policies and cannot override state and federal laws or constitutions.

Fifteen commissioners were elected in November 2025 to serve on the Charter Review Commission. The commission meets at 5 pm on Wednesdays in a hybrid format with both in person and online attendance options. The meetings are held on the sixth floor of the county’s Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. To learn how to join online and provide public comment during a meeting visit https://clark.wa.gov/charter/charter-review-commission-2026-2027. Meeting agendas and video recordings are available on the same web page.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power prepared to respond to outages ahead of forecast storms

Customers encouraged to prepare for possibility of outages

HOOD RIVER, Ore. (May 28, 2026) — Pacific Power is monitoring a significant storm system that could bring high winds, lightning and hail to central and eastern Oregon and Washington Thursday night.

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

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

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

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.  

• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.  

• Restock your outage kit.  

• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.  

• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.  

• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.  

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas. Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.

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About Pacific Power 

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Auto License office will close for in-person services June 15-29 for renovations in the customer service area. The renovations will enhance the overall customer service experience and accessibility.

The office is located on the first floor of the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. and will reopen on Tuesday, June 30. While in-person services will not be available during the closure, the office will continue to remain open and fully available by phone and email: 564.397.2288, Auto.License@clark.wa.gov.

Nine additional vehicle licensing subagent locations in Clark County will remain open for in-person services during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview.

Many transactions can be completed online. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/auditor/auto-license-overview for more information.

The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits (Summer EBT) program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.

Eligible families can receive a one-time payment of $120 for each child on an Oregon EBT card to buy food. Unused benefits can expire 122 days after they are issued.

Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance
• Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level
• Foster care services

Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who:

• Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway.
• Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
• Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.

Families may need to apply if:

• Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
• Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Important Summer EBT dates:

• June 1, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center opens. Families can call 833-673-7328 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• June 4, 2026 – Benefits are expected to begin issuing to families who are automatically eligible.
• June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing.
• Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline.
• Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes.

The Summer EBT program is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year.

Families can learn more about Summer EBT, find application information and get updates by visiting the website at sebt.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) launched a new round of funding through its Small Forestland Grant Program to help landowners reduce wildfire risk before and after the 2026 fire season.

“By investing in the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Small Forestland Grant Program, we aren't just preparing for the next fire season, we are securing Oregon’s future,” said Mike Kroon, Forest Resources Division Deputy Chief.

The grant program supports work that began in 2021. Since then, ODF and partner organizations have continued investing in statewide wildfire mitigation to protect natural resources, homes, and communities. 

 “This program turns taxpayer dollars into tangible protection, helping small landowners reduce fuel loads that would otherwise threaten our communities,” said Kroon. “It’s a foundational piece of Oregon’s 20-year Landscape Resiliency Strategy that maximizes every dollar to build a landscape that is resilient, defensible from wildfires, and safer for all of us.”

2024–2026 Project Investments

This year, ODF awarded funds to 11 projects to mitigate wildfire risk on 1,023 acres by reducing hazardous fuels, improving community preparedness, and supporting long-term landscape resilience.

Most of the funded work is in Southern and Central Oregon, where wildfire risk is especially high.

One of the awardees for this year has already begun work. One example is in the Tollgate community outside of Sisters, Oregon.

"In addition to significantly reducing hazardous fuels, the thinning operations funded through the ODF Small Forestland Grant Program have substantially improved emergency access and defensible space for more than 190 Tollgate properties,” said Tollgate community landowner Christina Maier. “Residents have deeply appreciated ODF’s partnership and support, recognizing both the immediate wildfire risk reduction benefits and the long-term improvements to community safety, evacuation access, and forest health.”

Success Story: Applegate Partnership and Watershed Council

One example of success comes from the Applegate Partnership and Watershed Council, based in Jacksonville, Oregon, which received Small Forestland Grant funds to complete significant fuels reduction and community engagement work. ODF also coordinates with state and federal partners to maximize the impact of investments for landscape resiliency.

The project used about $269,000 to significantly improve local wildfire preparedness by:

• Assessing wildfire risk for 60 homeowners
• Removing more than 800 dead or hazardous trees
• Reducing plants along driveways and public roads to make safe evacuation routes
• Improving firefighter access in and around communities

The removal of hazardous trees also reduced safety risks for residents, forestry workers and first responders. This project strengthened community safety, reduced wildfire risks, and improved the landscape’s resilience.

The project leveraged more than $2.4 million provided through the National Resource Conservation Service to treat another 262 acres of private land. To stretch funding further, ODF and partners used a cost-share model that encouraged landowner participation. Landowners have contributed $45,349, about 18% of the total cost of work completed.

BLM announces dates for infrastructure improvements in the Yakima Canyon

Multiple recreation sites to close temporarily in May/June for construction

WENATCHEE, Wash. – The Bureau of Land Management announces that construction will take place at Lmuma Creek Recreation Site, Liberty Recreation Site, Roza Campgrounds, and Big Pines Recreation Site this June. Specific dates below:

• Lmuma Creek Recreation Site: May 28 to June 3 (6 days) and June 10 to June 24 (14 days)
• Liberty Recreation Site: June 1 to June 5 (4 days)
• Roza Campgrounds: June 10 to June 24 (14 days)
• Big Pines Recreation Site: June 15 to June 29 (14 days)

To ensure public safety, there will be no public access to these sites or their accompanying boat ramps during the closure periods. All visitors are advised to plan ahead and use alternative boat ramps and camping facilities in the area during this time.

“We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we complete these important improvements,” said Jon Meier, assistant Wenatchee field manager. “These upgrades will enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience at these well-loved sites.”

The temporary closures are necessary to allow for critical improvements to campground infrastructure and boat ramp access. These upgrades are part of the BLM’s ongoing commitment to providing safe and enjoyable experiences for all visitors. Work crews and heavy equipment will be present, and access restrictions are required to ensure the safety of both workers and the public.

Improvements include reshaped campgrounds, boat ramp repairs, fresh gravel to improve site drainage and accessibility, new picnic tables and fire rings, alongside updated bulletin boards to provide better information for visitors.

For more information, please contact the BLM Wenatchee Field Office at (509) 665-2100.

-BLM-

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

State-funded wildfire housing developments completed

NATIONAL PET PREPAREDNESS MONTH

June is National Pet Preparedness Month. Here’s how to make sure your pets and livestock are ready for emergencies:

For Pets:

• Make an emergency plan for your pets. Practice what you’ll do if you need to leave quickly.
• Check your pet’s emergency supplies. Replace old food, water, and medicine.
• If you have to leave your home, bring your pets with you. Only leave them behind if you have no other choice.
• Ask neighbors or friends to help with pets if you can’t get home.
• During evacuation warnings, put collars and harnesses on your pets and keep them in a safe room so you can grab them quickly.
• Find out which shelters or hotels allow pets before an emergency happens.
• Make sure your pets have ID tags and updated microchips. Keep a copy of their vaccine records in your Go Bag.
• Make a pet emergency kit: leash, carrier, food, water, medicine, sanitation supplies, ID, and a photo of your pet.
• Never leave pets alone in cars or tied up outside.
• If you must leave pets at home, leave plenty of food and water and put a sign on your door with the number and type of pets inside.
• Pets may act differently after a disaster. Watch them closely.

For Livestock:

• If you get a level 2 evacuation warning, leave with your livestock right away. Start getting ready at level 1.
• Post emergency contact numbers on barns or fences. Mark your phone number on your animals if you have to let them go.
• Store extra feed in a different place in case you can’t get home.
• Work with neighbors to make an evacuation plan.
• Make a kit with halters, first aid, water, and papers that prove you own your animals.

For more pet and livestock emergency tips, visit Lincoln County Emergency Management, Ready.gov, or Red Cross.

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

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May 28, 2026

Contact: Kristen Lambert, isten.lambert@oha.oregon.gov">Kristen.lambert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-271-1347

Governor Kotek secures additional funding to help stabilize maternity care in rural communities

New federal funding will bolster state investment, strengthen labor and delivery services across 21 rural hospitals serving families in 17 counties

SALEM, Ore. — Governor Tina Kotek, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and the Hospital Association of Oregon, announced today that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Oregon’s proposed state directed payment to strengthen and stabilize maternity care services in rural communities. By matching state funding secured by Governor Kotek , these approved federal funds will result in a total investment of up to $37.5 million for 21 rural hospitals that provide maternity services for some of Oregon’s most remote communities. For rural hospitals, many of which will navigate reductions in Medicaid funding due to H.R. 1, these payments will help provide additional staffing and essential medical equipment, sustain and create good paying jobs and invest in strategies that improve overall quality of care of maternity services, such as supporting community outreach to pregnant Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members.

"I fought for these funds in my budget to stabilize services in Oregon because rural communities deserve reliable, high quality maternity care close to home,” Governor Kotek said. “The Trump Administration’s cuts to Medicaid will make rural maternity care harder to sustain and I applaud the work by the agency to maximize state dollars to support Oregon providers. I appreciate this partnership from hospital leaders who participated in conversations with my office to devise how these funds will be spent, and our continued partnership as we work together to improve access to care where it’s needed most.”

The directed payment is part of a one-time $25 million investment authorized by the Legislature in House Bill 5025 (2025). The coordinated effort is led by Governor Kotek with OHA and the Hospital Association of Oregon to strengthen maternity services. Roughly half of all births in the state are covered by OHP, and Medicaid funding changes have already begun to impact rural healthcare providers in Oregon and across the country.  

“CMS’s approval enables us to support rural hospitals at a moment when maternity services are under tremendous pressure,” said Dr. Sejal Hathi, Director of OHA. “OHA worked hard to secure this funding because rural families and communities cannot wait as healthcare costs rise and labor and delivery units close. These funds will help reinforce essential care for expecting OHP members while also strengthening services for entire communities. As we implement this directed payment, OHA remains committed to bolstering the full continuum of maternity care and closing longstanding gaps—so that families can access the safe, high-quality care they need throughout pregnancy and beyond.”

At a time when Oregon’s rural hospitals are increasingly impacted by federal policy changes, these payments are designed to stabilize maternity services, strengthen access to care, and create good paying jobs in communities with limited resources. The funding aims to ensure safe, reliable services for OHP members. The investments are expected to improve access to prenatal and postpartum care, reduce preventable complications, and promote more equitable maternal health outcomes across rural Oregon.

“Oregon's rural hospitals face mounting financial and workforce challenges in sustaining the maternity services families rely on,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “CMS’s approval was a critical step in releasing funds to rural hospitals, providing much-needed support to help protect access to maternity care in rural Oregon. This investment highlights what can be achieved when state leaders, hospitals, and our partners work together to protect care in communities.”

There is no application process for rural hospitals. Rural hospitals that currently offer maternity services will automatically receive payments. OHA is working with CCOs and rural hospitals to coordinate a payment schedule.

Investments Aimed at Stabilizing Care and Expanding Access

These efforts are part of a broader statewide strategy to strengthen maternity care. In 2025, the Governor requested and the Legislature authorized a one-time $25 million investment to support, stabilize, improve and expand rural maternity hospital services. Governor Kotek directed OHA to distribute the funds in a targeted approach based on input from impacted hospitals. In addition to the CMS‑approved directed payment, OHA increased the 2026 maternity care rates for larger hospitals that are paid by coordinated care organizations (CCOs) through diagnosis-related group (DRG) rates.

Rural hospitals may use the funds to strengthen maternity services and improve quality of care for OHP members, including: 

• Hiring or retaining maternity care staff
• Upgrading or purchasing clinical equipment
• Expanding outreach, navigation, or perinatal support for OHP members

Below is a list of rural hospitals that will receive direct payment (in alphabetical order by county):

In counties such as Malheur County — where more than half of residents are enrolled in OHP — improvements to maternity services often benefit the broader community. While activities like outreach may focus specifically on OHP members, other investments, such as equipment upgrades or additional staffing, enhance care for all patients.

In addition to the directed payment, OHA is continuing to strengthen the full continuum of maternity care by expanding access to doulas and lactation counselors, implementing a community-based access program to support culturally specific and geographically diverse perinatal service providers, and prioritizing maternal and child health through the Rural Health Transformation Program. OHA recognizes that maternity care extends far beyond hospital services—from prenatal visits and labor and delivery to postpartum supports, home visiting, and lactation services—and is working across this entire continuum to close gaps and improve equitable access to care for families in every community. 

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Every day, in multiple ways, the Oregon Health Authority supports individuals, communities, and partners across the state so that all families can thrive. OHA is further supporting rural hospitals by providing a total of $35 million in federal Rural Health Transformation Program funding this year. While most rural hospitals are eligible to receive $963,000 each through this opportunity, three larger rural hospitals with more than 50 beds can each receive nearly $1.4 million. This direct funding is designed to help rural Oregon improve access to critical services during a time of tremendous change and challenge in healthcare. On May 7, OHA announced which hospitals are eligible for this federal funding and how much each hospital can receive. For more details, please refer to the Rural Health Transformation Program newsletter.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Woodburn, Oregon, man pleaded guilty yesterday for threatening to kill a United States Senator.

Donald Leroy Smith, Jr., 51, pleaded guilty to retaliating against a federal official by threat.

According to court documents, on November 12, 2025, Smith left a voicemail for a U.S. Senator stating he was “coming to kill you,” that “you need to be dead,” and that he was going to “put a bullet in your head.”

On March 19, 2026, Smith was charged by information with threatening a federal official.

Smith faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 26, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Smith has agreed to pay restitution in full.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case with assistance from United States Capitol Police, United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, Oregon State Police, and the Woodburn Police Department. First Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. Narus and Assistant U.S. Attorney James A. Kilcup are prosecuting the case.

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On 05‑27‑26 at approximately 1839 hours, Clark County Fire District 13, North Country EMS, and Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a single‑motorcycle collision near the 25200 block of NE Worthington RD, near the Town of Yacolt. The motorcyclist suffered critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital by LifeFlight helicopter. The Sheriff’s Office has since learned the motorcyclist succumbed to their injuries.

The preliminary investigation indicates the motorcyclist was traveling southbound on NE Worthington RD when the motorcycle left the roadway in a curve and collided with vegetation off the shoulder.

The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and will continue investigating the cause of the crash. No further information is available for release at this time.