Oct. 28, 2025

Media contact: Max Sprague, 971-288-9420, ague@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">max.sprague@oha.oregon.gov

OHA announces Oregon Health Forward Champions and new Move Oregon Health Forward Pledge

SALEM, Ore. -Today, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced a list of Champions for its Oregon Health Forward (OHF) effort and launched a new Move Oregon Health Forward Pledge, with a call to organizations across the state to sign the pledge and consider what commitment they can make to advance health for all.

The cornerstone of Oregon Health Forward, launched earlier this year, is the statewide Call to Action -- OHA’s initiative to galvanize a “whole of society” commitment to its 2030 strategic goal by building new public-private partnerships and cross-sectoral investments to address health disparities. OHA is proud to announce a list of Champions from across sectors and across the state who are leveraging their positions to improve the health and wellbeing of their employees, students, patients, and communities.

Each Champion brings to this effort a founding commitment to Move Oregon Health Forward, described below:

• Marin Arreola, President, Advanced Economic Solutions Inc.

Advanced Economic Solutions will expand access to equitable and affordable behavioral health services across Oregon by investing in community-based workforce development, supporting and elevating Traditional Health Workers, strengthening culturally responsive care, and advancing integrated health navigation.

• Julia Banks, Senior Vice President, Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo Foundation will invest $250,000 in housing stability, with grants to five organizations across the state focused on helping renters avoid eviction and stay housed.

• Dr. Adrien Bennings, President, Portland Community College

Portland Community College has launched and will continue to refine a Behavioral Health Career Pathway, offering a clear and structured journey for students in the field, and diversifying Oregon’s behavioral health workforce for long-term growth.

• David Drinkward, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hoffman Construction Company

Hoffman Construction Company will build out a Recovery Ready Workplace substance use prevention program, working with Care for Construction, a provider of a full range of prevention, awareness, and treatment services custom-built for people in construction.

• Clarissa Etter-Smith, Health Care Executive Director, Genentech

Genentech will expand pathways into STEM education and careers for underrepresented youth in collaboration with community-based programs and continue to remove barriers to care by providing patient assistance, conducting inclusive clinical trials, and supporting patient advocacy organizations and other patient-serving social services nonprofits

• Peggy Maguire, President, Cambia Health Foundation

Cambia Health Foundation will award $200,000 in grants in 2025 focused on innovative whole-person primary care models, early intervention for young children and caregivers, and building a diverse primary care workforce with a focus on behavioral health.

• Gustavo Morales, Executive Director, Euvalcree

Euvalcree will provide technical assistance and strategic support to organizations engaged in economic development activities in Eastern Oregon, seeking to improve regional health and wellbeing through shared economic advancement.

• Dr. Jayathi Murty, President, Oregon State University

Oregon State University will invest in rural health, through placements for public health students, STEM and job readiness for high school students, and expand chronic disease and mental health programming in rural and underserved communities.

Now, for the first time, organizations interested in joining this effort may sign on to the Move Oregon Health Forward Pledge, which asks signatories to commit to the following principles:

1. Hold firm. In a time of rising demand and growing uncertainty, we commit to staying the course: Advancing health and opportunity is a smart investment in stronger communities and a more resilient future.
2. Act where we can. We will take steps — large and small — to strengthen the health and wellbeing of the people we employ, serve and impact.
3. Consider health in all decision-making. We will weigh how our policies, budgets, products, and services affect people’s ability to live well — especially those who face systemic barriers.
4. Support solutions. We will use our voice and resources to back efforts that help more Oregonians thrive.
5. Stand together. By adding our name publicly, we join a growing statewide network committed to Oregon’s health.

Organizations may also continue to make Oregon Health Forward commitments, which may take the form of financial investments in health, programmatic changes, or new partnerships.

All pledge signatories and partner commitments will be recognized and elevated by OHA and celebrated publicly in an end-of-year celebration.

“Now more than ever, it is the responsibility of all of us who care about health and wellbeing in Oregon to demonstrate to our communities that we are committed to making this state a place where everyone can thrive,” said OHA Director Sejal Hathi, M.D., MBA. “I’m proud to sign the Oregon Health Authority onto to the Move Oregon Health Forward Pledge and to announce commitments from our Champions Council that embody these principles. I hope that others see these actions and ask what their organizations can do – no matter their sector – to make it easier for all Oregonians to achieve their full potential for health and wellbeing.”

The first iteration of this work was supported by the CDC Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization that mobilizes philanthropic and private-sector resources to help extend the lifesaving work of the nation’s public health system.

To sign the pledge, make a commitment, or find out more information about the Call to Action, visit our web page here.

Oct. 23, 2025

Media Contact: Franny White, anny.L.White@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Franny.L.White@oha.oregon.gov (media requests)

Meeting Contact: Summer Boslaugh, .h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">summer.h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov, 503-753-9688 (meeting information or accommodation)

Primary Care Payment Reform Collaborative to meet Wednesday, Oct. 29 via Zoom

What: A public meeting of the Primary Care Payment Reform Collaborative

When:  Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 2 to 4 p.m. Public comment will be taken at 3:45 to 3:55 p.m.

Where: Virtual Meeting Only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line. To join via Zoom: Zoom link

Phone number: (669) 254-5252 │ Meeting ID: 160 512 8256 │ Passcode: 858909

Agenda Goals:

• Review and discuss a draft Primary Care Challenges in Oregon document.
• Achieve consensus on the document.
• Learn about the results of the Oregon Primary Care Spending Report.

For more information, please visit the Primary Care Payment Reform Collaborative’s website. The Primary Care Payment Reform Collaborative welcomes hearing from community members on the matters discussed by the committee and its other bodies, and other topics the public wishes the committee to consider.  If you wish to offer public comment, we appreciate you letting Summer Boslaugh know in advance of the meeting, at .h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">summer.h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov. Advance notice is not required in order to offer public comment at the meeting.  

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Summer Boslaugh, 711 TTY, .h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">summer.h.boslaugh@oha.oregon.gov, 503-753-9688.

Cowlitz County, WA- Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue is very happy to announce that the District retains its Fire Protection Class (PC) Rating after the 2024 site visit and evaluation by the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau (WSRB).

Our fire protection rating by WSRB is:

1. 3 – Inside Kelso City limits

2. 3 – Outside Kelso City and within 5 miles of a fire station and within 1,000’ of a fire hydrant

3. 5 – Outside Kelso City and within 5 miles of a fire station, and no fire hydrant within 1,000’ of home

4. 9 – Inside our fire district and between 5 and 7 miles from a fire station

5. 9A – Inside our fire district and more than 7 miles from a fire station

A revision is under consideration that will revise the rating for homes between the 5- and 7-mile distances.

Cowlitz 2 was also evaluated for the WSRB Tender credit, bringing large volumes of water to the scene, and we retain the WSRB Tender credit.

The new (continued) rating goes into effect on November 1, 2025, and the District will be evaluated again in 2029. Cowlitz 2 is one of only 75 fire districts/departments in the state with a PC of 3 of the 662 communities.

Chief Scott Goldstein stated that

“This rating was only possible by the amazing support and commitment of the new response volunteers that provide staffing at Station 24 (Rose Valley), the commitment of the career and volunteer members of the Fire District, contributions of our partners in providing records to WSRB, and the guidance of Deputy Chief Jeremy Huff for our WSRB filing, site visit, and documentation.”

The fire protection class rating impacts homeowner’s insurance. Most, but not all, insurance companies use the WSRB data as one input in setting fire insurance premiums. Retaining the PC of 3 helps homeowners avoid insurance rate hikes.

If you have questions about the WSRB rating, please see the WSRB FAQ document/site at https://www1.wsrb.com/protection-class-faq .

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

BEAVERTON, Ore. – Portland Community College welding instructor Matt Scott of Beaverton was recognized with a 35-year Lifetime Membership Award from the American Welding Society (AWS) at FABTECH, an industry show. The national honor celebrates his decades-long commitment to workforce training and his impact on generations of welding students.

“We're absolutely thrilled to see Matt Scott get recognized for his lifetime commitment to training, encouraging and mentoring students into the welding workforce,” said Patty Hawkins, program dean for Electronics, Mechatronics, Advanced Manufacturing and PCC’s OMIC Training Center. “The industry partners Matt works with would be proud to hear about this recognition because he’s committed to their voices always being at the table.”

The American Welding Society is the global authority on welding standards, certification and education. The AWS grants Lifetime Membership Awards to professionals who demonstrate significant contributions through education, service and leadership. The award highlights Scott's technical expertise and commitment to workforce development, while reinforcing PCC’s leadership in trades education.

His True Reward -- Completion

Scott, who has been an instructor for 32 years, also serves as PCC’s high school liaison for welding. He said the recognition is a reminder of why he teaches.

“Awards are nice, but the real reward is watching students succeed,” he said. “When they leave here with skills that change their lives, that’s what matters most.”

Hawkins said the honor shows the caliber of instructors PCC has.

“Matt’s dedication elevates our program and sets a standard of excellence that benefits every student who walks through our doors," she said. “Matt is extremely passionate about teaching welding. He’s always the first to arrive and the last to leave. If there’s a need in the department, he’s there to help."

Scott began his career in the welding industry before moving into education, bringing real-world experience and industry standards directly into his classrooms. At PCC, he splits his time between teaching and outreach, emphasizing safety, hands-on instruction and collaboration with local employers.

Outside the classroom, he partners with local high schools to introduce younger students to welding and help them earn college credit while still in high school, saving both time and money.

AI Won't Replace Welders

Scott stressed that technology, AI, and robotics will complement (as a tool), not replace welders, making the field even more adaptable and rewarding as the demand for skilled welders remains strong across Oregon and the nation.

“A lot of students don’t realize welding is even an option,” Scott said. “But once they try it, they see how many doors it can open. The AWS said they need 330,000 new welding professionals by 2028. As long as PCC welding grads are actively seeking jobs, they will be actively hired with multiple offers.

“It’s okay to mess up as that’s part of learning,” he continued. “What matters is that you keep practicing until it clicks and the skill becomes second nature.”

This wasn't the only collaboration. In October, Scott joined colleague Todd Barnett at the British Columbia Technology Education Association’s Conference for Welding Educators, teaming up with industry partners Vigor Marine Group and Diversified Marine to present on bridging the skills gap through partnership.

“It’s going to take all of us to grow the trades workforce," he said. 

For more information on certificate and two-year associate degree options, see pcc.edu/programs/welding.

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.

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WARRENTON, Oregon— The Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course at Fort Stevens State Park will be closed 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30.

Fort Stevens will be hosting the Cowapa League Cross Country District Championship Meet. The disc golf course, located in the historic area of the park, will reopen after the cross country meet Thursday afternoon.

The Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course is a multi-hole journey through the historic military installations along the Columbia River. Short and long tee positions are good for beginners and pro players alike. Visitors can use their own discs or find them for sale at the park’s visitor center or ranger station.

For more information about the park or the disc golf area, visit the park webpage at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=129

Mazama Energy’s technological innovations prove ideal for powering AI

DALLAS, October 28, 2025 – Mazama Energy, Inc., a company incubated by Khosla Ventures and backed by Khosla Ventures and Gates Frontier, today announced a technologically significant leap for clean energy: the creation of the world’s hottest Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) at its pilot site in Newberry, Oregon – at an unprecedented 629 °F (331 °C) bottomhole temperature.  This breakthrough sets a new global benchmark for geothermal technology and marks a critical step towards delivering low-cost, carbon-free baseload power at terawatt-scale, targeting less than 5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). 

A New Era for Data Center Energy: Always-On, Anywhere, Carbon-Free

As data centers and AI workloads surge, the world faces an unprecedented demand for continuous, high-density power. Traditional renewables such as solar and wind are intermittent, while natural gas and coal are carbon intensive. By developing geothermal resources at temperatures above 300 °C, Mazama can deliver power 24/7 from virtually anywhere in the world, regardless of weather or time of day. This makes Mazama’s geothermal platform the ideal solution for hyperscale data centers and industrial electrification.

“With geothermal, you get global, round-the-clock energy that is carbon-free, cost-stable, and grid-independent,” said Sriram Vasantharajan, CEO of Mazama Energy. “Our team’s accomplishments expand the frontiers of geothermal power into significantly hotter and more heterogeneous rock regimes than ever before. The Newberry pilot provides a blueprint for unlocking baseload, utility-scale, carbon-free energy from the Earth’s crust worldwide, which is what the next generation of AI and cloud infrastructure requires.”

Dr. John McLennan, Reservoir Management Lead at Utah FORGE, said, “This is a validation of an integrated development program that has successfully interconnected two slightly deviated wells and circulated a representative working fluid – a fulfillment of a vision from nearly fifty years ago to create a full scale EGS reservoir which was initiated by Los Alamos National Laboratory at Fenton Hill, New Mexico. This proof of concept opens the door to deeper and hotter opportunities at Newberry and beyond.” 

Unlocking SuperHot Geothermal: Toward Terawatt-Scale Clean Energy

Mazama will next advance to commercial projects with horizontal wells, beginning with a 15 MW pilot in 2026 and then scaling to a 200 MW development project at Newberry. The company will also extend its drilling into the SuperHot Rock regime (>400 °C range), leveraging proprietary high-temperature materials, cooling solutions and stimulation technologies. Harnessing SuperHot Rock resources will allow Mazama to extract up to 10x more power density, use 75% less water and drill 80% fewer wells than current approaches. Mazama aims to deliver terawatts of competitive and dispatchable power globally.

Located within the Cascade Range, Newberry is one of the largest geothermal reservoirs in the U.S. At the demonstration site, Mazama’s engineers first completed and stimulated a legacy well to serve as the water injector.  Mazama then successfully drilled a new, 10,200-foot deviated producer well within six feet of its planned trajectory achieving optimal alignment with the injector. Initial circulation tests and diagnostics confirm comprehensive connectivity between the two wells and the creation of the hottest-ever EGS.  

Mazama’s team successfully deployed a spectrum of innovative technologies – including directional drilling, high-temperature well construction, and proprietary stimulation -- to deliver performance under conditions far beyond traditional oil and gas industry limits. The team operated year-round at a remote, high-altitude site, with zero lost-time incidents.

During the technical demonstration, Mazama achieved:

• Peak drill penetration rates of 100 feet/hour
• Average 76 feet/hour across diverse rock types: granite, basalt, and granodiorite
• Record-breaking bit runs up to 2,760 feet through volcanic formations
• Zero downhole failures of motors or measurement tools
• Well integrity and cement stability at ultra-high temperatures

At the heart of this success is Mazama’s proprietary Thermal Lattice™ stimulation, which is a patented process, purpose-built for enhanced geothermal environments.  Building on conventional hydraulic fracturing, Thermal Lattice™ enables complex fracture creation and improved connectivity. The Newberry project also demonstrated the successful use of crosslinked fracturing fluid systems, sliding sleeves, chemical and nano tracers, and fiber-optic diagnostics for real-time fracture mapping and temperature monitoring. 

About Mazama Energy

Mazama Energy is pioneering Enhanced Geothermal Systems and SuperHot Rock technologies to deliver low-cost, dispatchable, and carbon-free power at a global scale. Through its proprietary MUSE™ technology platform, Mazama is redefining geothermal performance and unlocking the world’s largest untapped renewable resource deep heat from the Earth’s crust.

For more information about Mazama, visit www.mazamaenergy.com.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a house fire north of Bend at 65295 76^th Street. 911 callers reported a manufactured home fully engulfed in fire. Crews found a house and adjacent camp trailer on fire. Crews from Cloverdale and Alfalfa Fire Department’s provided water tenders to assist Bend crews extinguishing the fire. Crews kept the fire from spreading to other structures on the property. The house and trailer are a complete loss, and three cars were damaged as well. Losses estimated at $200,000 for all structures, vehicles, and contents.
 

The fire cause is still under investigation. The occupants in an adjacent trailer were home at the time of the fire and noticed the fire burning through their front window. After calling 911 they evacuated the area. The home was not occupied at the time of the fire.
 

One of the potential causes being investigated is hot the ash from the woodstove was disposed of. As we’re seeing nighttime temperatures get down to freezing as we head towards November, this is a good time to ensure you’re ready for wood burning this winter. Always have your chimney cleaned at least annually by a professional to prevent creosote buildup. Ensure you have a metal bucket with a tight-fitting lid to put ash into when you clean out the fireplace. Ash can stay warm for days after a fire and if disposed of improperly, can reignite. If the ash is in a metal can with a lid, that reignition is limited in where it can go. Place the metal can on a non-combustible surface and allow it to cool before disposing of. Never put hot ash in your trash can or in a combustible container. For more information about home heating safety, please visit: https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/home-heating.aspx

Oct. 27, 2025

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

OHA issues alert for Cannon Beach at Gower Creek

Sewage spill could increase risk of exposure to fecal bacteria

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) at Oregon Health Authority is issuing an alert for Cannon Beach at Gower Creek due to a sewage spill that could raise the risk of exposure to fecal bacteria.

OHA is issuing an alert because OBMP staff do not have test results confirming the presence of bacteria in the Gower Creek outfall, where it spills into Cannon Beach. Therefore, they are not able to determine risk to human health and issue a formal beach advisory.

However, because of the potential health risk due to the presence of sewage, the OBMP is encouraging visitors to the Gower Creek area of Cannon Beach to take precautions. They should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean.

The City of Cannon Beach reports it has cleaned up the spill and is taking samples for fecal bacteria testing to confirm the clean-up was successful. The city has also posted warning signs along the affected areas on Cannon Beach and have issued communications via Facebook and its local listserv.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly persons and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

While OHA has issued this alert, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk.

For more information about OBMP, visit the program website at healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

Portland, OR — July 4, 2026 — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the foundational document of American democracy — is exactly 250 days away. To commemorate this milestone, the America 250 Oregon Commission, in partnership with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, are pleased to announced the recipients of 13 grants awarded to museums, historical societies, local governments, veterans organizations, and community nonprofits across Oregon. 

The Oregon 250 Grant Program was established to help organizations create inclusive, community-focused projects that highlight Oregon’s diverse histories, traditions, and cultures. The grants, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 each, will support programs that align with the mission of America 250 Oregon and one or more of its seven guideposts, which are:

• To inspire Oregonians to participate in the work of forming a more perfect union.
• To highlight the importance of civics and history education in building a better future.
• To highlight the work of Oregon’s many history and heritage organizations.
• To encourage a robust, thorough, and honest examination of our collective history.
• To celebrate the unique traditions, arts, and cultures of communities throughout Oregon.
• To honor the service and sacrifice made by Oregon’s veterans.
• To celebrate the power of place through Oregon’s remarkable landscapes and scenic beauty.

The following organizations were awarded grants in the Oregon 250 Grant Program’s first funding cycle:

Benton County Historical Society, Benton County
Grant funding will support two exhibits for the 250th anniversary: Centuries of Celebration at its Philomath museum site and Strength, Struggle, Survival: Our Community’s Response to 250 Years at its Corvallis museum site.

Cape Blanco Heritage Society, Curry County
Grant funding will support the creation of a scale model of a historic house and ranch that tells a local, regional story that will enhance the visitor experience and support local tourism.

City of Sweet Home, Linn County
Grant funding will support a year of events, enhancements to existing traditions, and public history displays to honor the 250th anniversary while showcasing the community’s rich local history.

Coos County Historical Society, Coos County
Grant funding will support Waves of Tradition, an exhibit that will celebrate the diverse maritime traditions and scenic beauty that shaped Oregon’s South Coast in honor of the 250th anniversary.

Embrace Bend, Deschutes County
Grant funding will support the CivicLab Project, a community-centered initiative designed to spark civic engagement and inclusive dialogue in Central Oregon.

Garibaldi Maritime Museum, Tillamook County
Grant funding will support the Port of Garibaldi: The Story of a Coast Guard City exhibit at the museum, which features the city’s relationship with the U.S. Coast Guard and honors active duty and retired Coast Guard veterans.

McMinnville Downtown Association, Yamhill County
Grant funding will support the creation of placemaking projects to enhance the community, support the city’s economic vitality, and encourage dialogue and connection.

Oregon Firearms Safety Coalition in partnership with Rogue Cell Recon, Clatsop County & Tillamook County
Grant funding will support the Veterans Stories Project, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s veterans by collecting and sharing their stories through a series of short interviews conducted across the North Coast region of Oregon.

Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, Multnomah County
Grant funding will support digitizing collections that will be featured in an interactive component in Practicing Democracy: Jewish Civic Leadership and Engagement in Oregon, the museum’s forthcoming exhibition to commemorate America 250.

Sandy Historical Society, Clackamas County
Grant funding will support a collection survey and assessment to facilitate a deeper understanding of collection holdings, gaps, and further work that needs to be completed in order to better represent all the diverse members of the community.

Santiam Heritage Foundation, Marion County
Grant funding will support history presentations in several heritage organizations in Marion County during 2026 to highlight local history and the organizations preserving local history.

Warrior Impact, Deschutes County
Grant funding will support the development of a cohort in Central Oregon to support veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders through small-group experiences that foster trust, growth, and lifelong connections.

Woodburn Museum, Marion County
Grant funding will support the Sapper: Sgt. Wayne Woodruff and the Great War exhibit, which shares the history of the combat engineer during World War I who later settled in the Woodburn area.

Kerry Tymchuk, chair of the America 250 Oregon Commission and executive director of the Oregon Historical Society, said, “We are grateful to the Oregon State Legislature for providing funds that will encourage Oregonians across our state in marking this once-in-a-generation opportunity to commemorate our nation’s past while also looking forward to a brighter future.”

A second funding cycle will open on Monday, January 5, 2026, and will remain open until March 1, 2026, or until funds are depleted. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible projects.

More information about the Oregon 250 Grant Program can be found at oregon250.org, including the grant guidelines.

Submit Your Event to the 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.

October 27, 2025

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted three men for the brutal beating of a man who was apparently trying to get to work on October 15th, 2025.

Rinson Tom, Greffy Tom and Audrick Yesiki are each charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First degree and other crimes.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is asking that each is held in jail without bail as the judicial process plays out.

In support of that request, MCDA filed an Affidavit in Support of Application for Violent Felony Determination Finding of Probable Cause. 

The Affidavit quotes reports from Transit Police which states that the three men began to board a TriMet bus at SE Stark Street and SE 142nd Avenue. One of the men was smoking and the driver told them they could not smoke on the bus. The man smoking told the other two to get on the bus but he did not get on and there was a delay. 

A rider who was already on the bus and shouted that he needed to get to work. The others appeared to shout back at him according to the affidavit. The rider then got out of his seat and rushed toward the men, according to the affidavit, to shoo them off the bus.

Instead, the three began punching him and he eventually fell to the ground. Then at least one of the three males stomped on the victim’s face with his shoes.

Another passenger said all three kicked, slapped and punched the victim while he was on the ground. 

A detective who later checked in on the victim at the hospital reported he had a continuing brain bleed, orbital fracture (a bone around the eye) and broken nose.

District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said: “TriMet provides a vital service to our community and works hard to keep riders safe.  This egregious behavior will not be tolerated and this office will hold those responsible for it accountable.”

Defendants are considered not guilty until convicted in a court of law.

Contact:          Sgt Torin Liden

Phone:            541-994-3636

Date:               10-27-2025

RE:                  Arrest Made on Threat to Lincoln City Cultural Center

The Lincoln City Police Department announces the arrest of a suspect in the September 13^th mass-shooting threat at the Lincoln City Cultural Center.

On October 27, 2025 LCPD detectives, in collaboration with the Keizer Police Department, arrested a 15-year-old juvenile male resident of Keizer.  This male was charged with Disorderly Conduct in the First Degree and lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Department.

Due to his age, LCPD is unable to release the suspect’s name.

This is still an on-going investigation and more details may be released in the future.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to thank the Keizer Police Department, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, and the Marion County Juvenile Department for their assistance in this case.

Submitted By:

Sergeant Torin Liden

Under Authority Of:

Chief David Broderick

Marion County, Ore. ( Oct. 27, 2025)- On Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 2:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 272, in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Didier Lair Fuentes (26) of Keizer, attempted to merge onto the southbound lanes from Highway 214 when it maneuvered hard left across the southbound lanes of travel. The Chevrolet entered the path of a southbound Western Star commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Manmohan Singh (36) of Surrey (BC), resulting in a side impact collision. The collision caused the CMV to "jack knife" across the interstate towards the median, striking and dragging a Jeep Grand Cherokee, operated by Jeff David Peterson (63) of Keizer, into the median. A southbound Toyota Matrix, operated by Ashley Danielle Peugh (34) of Murphy (ID), narrowly missed the involved vehicles, however was struck by debris from the wreckage.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Fuentes) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Western Star (Singh) was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Jeep (Peterson) was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Toyota (Peugh) was reportedly suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by Woodburn Fire and EMS, Hubbard Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Oct. 27, 2025

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

Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee meets Nov. 5

What: The Oregon Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee will be holding its quarterly public meeting. The Committee has three specialty subcommittees on cardiac, stroke, and trauma care, which will meet in the morning, and the main committee will meet in the afternoon. Public comment periods will be offered at the end of each meeting.

Oregon public meeting law and requirements information

Agenda: Discuss patient definitions and 2026 goals.

When: Nov. 5, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.  

Specialty subcommittees will meet 9:00 a.m. to noon.

Main committee will meet 1:00 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Where:

• Cardiac Subcommittee: Teams
• Stroke Subcommittee: Zoom
• Trauma Subcommittee: Zoom
• Main Committee: Zoom

Committee Vacancies:

• Cardiac Subcommittee:
  • Cardiothoracic surgeon or cardiac intensivist
  • Patient advocate / educator / injury prevention coordinator
  • Hospital administrator
• Stroke Subcommittee:
  • Stroke neurologist (primary stroke center)
  • Patient advocate / educator / injury prevention coordinator
• Trauma Subcommittee:
  • Rehabilitation specialist
• Main Committee:

No vacancies at this time.

Those interested in filling a vacant position should complete the application form. Questions about the positions and application process can be sent to ogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">ems.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Background: The Oregon Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee was established under the 2024 EMS Modernization Act (HB 4081 | 2024, OL Ch 32) to guide creation and implementation of statewide systems of care for time-sensitive medical emergencies. The Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee advises the Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Medical Services Program on regionalization and improvement of care, analysis of time-sensitive emergency data, and identification and resolution of inequities in provision of care.

Contact: Stella Rausch-Scott, EMS Program Committees Coordinator, OHA Public Health Division, 503-490-3717 or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov.

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For people who speak a language other than English or people with disabilities, OHA provides free help to attend the meeting. Some examples include:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART captioning
• Braille
• Large print
• Transcripts
• Virtual platform change

If you need help with these or other related services, please contact Stella Rausch-Scott at 503-490-3717 (voice/text) or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 business hours before the meeting.

All relay calls are accepted.

To best ensure our ability to provide an accommodation, please contact us even if you are only considering attending the meeting. The earlier you make a request, the more likely we can meet the need.

Oct. 27, 2025

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

Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee meets Nov. 4

What: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board will be holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period will be offered at the end of the meeting.

Agenda: Updates from advisory committees; presentations on EMS Program ambulance service plans work; discussion of patient definitions for time-sensitive medical emergencies.

Oregon public meeting law and requirements information

When / Where: Nov. 7, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. via Zoom

Board Vacancies:

• Third-party payer of health care insurance
• Emergency medicine physician

Those interested in filling a vacant position should complete the application form. Questions about the positions and application process can be sent to ogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">ems.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Background: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board was established under the 2024 EMS Modernization Act (HB 4081 | 2024, OL Ch 32) to oversee systems of emergency medical care statewide. The Board comprises 19 members, chaired by the State EMS Medical Director. The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board advises Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Medical Services Program on evidence-based practices and standards for defined patient types, emergency medical services workforce needs, and coordination of care between health care specialties.

Contact: Stella Rausch-Scott, EMS Program Committees Coordinator, OHA Public Health Division, 503-490-3717 or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov.

###

For people who speak a language other than English or people with disabilities, OHA provides free help to attend the meeting. Some examples include:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART captioning
• Braille
• Large print
• Transcripts
• Virtual platform change

If you need help with these or other related services, please contact Stella Rausch-Scott at 503-490-3717 (voice/text) or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 business hours before the meeting.

All relay calls are accepted.

Oct. 27, 2025

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

Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee meets Nov. 4

What: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee will be holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period will be offered at the end of the meeting.

Oregon public meeting law and requirements information

When / Where: Nov. 4, 2025, 9 a.m. to noon via Zoom

Agenda Items: Update bylaws, discuss requirements for EMS medical direction and goal-setting for 2026.

Committee Vacancies: No current vacancies

Those interested in filling future vacancies should complete the application form. Questions about the positions and application process can be sent to ogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">ems.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Background: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee was established under the 2024 EMS Modernization Act (HB 4081 | 2024, OL Ch 32) to oversee emergency medical service provision statewide.

The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee advises Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Medical Services Program on regionalization and improvement of EMS, including coordination and planning of emergency medical services efforts and on adoption of rules related to emergency medical services.

Contact: Stella Rausch-Scott, EMS Program Committees Coordinator, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Public Health Division, 503-490-3717 or

ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov.

###

For people who speak a language other than English or people with disabilities, OHA provides free help to attend the meeting. Some examples include:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART captioning
• Braille
• Large print
• Transcripts
• Virtual platform change

If you need help with these or other related services, please contact Stella Rausch-Scott at 503-490-3717 (voice/text) or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 business hours before the meeting.

All relay calls are accepted.

To best ensure our ability to provide an accommodation, please contact us even if you are only considering attending the meeting. The earlier you make a request, the more likely we can meet the need.

October 27, 2025

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted three men for the brutal beating of a man who was apparently trying to get to work on October 16, 2025.

Rinson Tom, Greffy Tom and Audrick Yesiki are each charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First degree and other crimes.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is asking that each is held in jail without bail as the judicial process plays out.

In support of that request, MCDA filed an Affidavit in Support of Application for Violent Felony Determination Finding of Probable Cause. 

The Affidavit quotes reports from Transit Police which states that the three men began to board a TriMet bus at SE Stark Street and SE 142nd Avenue. One of the men was smoking and the driver told them they could not smoke on the bus. The man smoking told the other two to get on the bus but he did not get on and there was a delay. 

A rider who was already on the bus and shouted that he needed to get to work. The others appeared to shout back at him according to the affidavit. The rider then got out of his seat and rushed toward the men, according to the affidavit, to shoo them off the bus.

Instead, the three began punching him and he eventually fell to the ground. Then at least one of the three males stomped on the victim’s face with his shoes.

Another passenger said all three kicked, slapped and punched the victim while he was on the ground. 

A detective who later checked in on the victim at the hospital reported he had a continuing brain bleed, orbital fracture (a bone around the eye) and broken nose.

District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said: “TriMet provides a vital service to our community and works hard to keep riders safe.  This egregious behavior will not be tolerated and this office will hold those responsible for it accountable.”

Defendants are considered not guilty until convicted in a court of law.

Salem – October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) reminds everyone that cybersecurity is a hot topic for the insurance sector today and a growing concern for many businesses.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a collaborative effort led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), uniting the public and private sectors to encourage behaviors that reduce online risks. The campaign emphasizes that fundamental actions can make a big difference in defending our nation against cyber threats and protecting our critical infrastructure.

Businesses, large and small, should consider cyber insurance as part of their risk management process. Cybersecurity is a risk that all insurance carriers should take seriously from an operational resilience perspective, as cybersecurity events can disrupt your business, costing you money.

Most commercial property and general liability policies do not cover cyber risks, and cyber insurance policies are highly customized for clients. Insurers and insurance producers must protect the highly sensitive consumer financial, health and nonpublic personal information collected as part of the underwriting and claims processes. Reports show that sectors such as health care and financial services are experiencing higher cybersecurity incidents and claim costs, partially due to the data they manage.

CISA has tips to protect your business. Cybercriminals look for easy targets. Businesses without basic precautions are vulnerable. Start with these four essential steps to safeguard your data and enable employees to stop attacks before they happen:

1. Teach employees to avoid phishing: Phishing tricks employees into opening malicious attachments or sharing sensitive information. Train employees to recognize and report suspicious activity. 
2. Require strong passwords: Strong passwords are a simple but powerful way to block criminals from accessing your accounts through guessing or automated attacks. Make them mandatory for all users. 
3. Require multifactor authentication (MFA): MFA – also known as two-factor authentication – adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords. Require it to make accounts significantly more secure. Use phishing resistant MFA where available. 
4. Update business software: Outdated software can contain exploitable flaws. Promptly install security updates and patches to keep your systems protected.

CISA also recommends businesses back up all their business data and encrypt it. Encrypting your data and devices strengthens your defense against attacks. Even if criminals gain access to your files, information stays locked and unreadable. Make encryption part of your security strategy.

“We see a complicated landscape in cybersecurity, which remains a priority for us,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator and acting insurance commissioner. “We are seeing increasing calls for legislation nationwide and regulation for enhanced cybersecurity measures to address risks including identity theft, business interruption, data repair costs, and more.”

More companies are entering the market each year. According to the most recent report on the Cyber Insurance Market from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, issued in fall 2024, shows a cyber insurance market of roughly $9.84 billion in direct written premiums.

The U.S. cyber insurance market accounts for 59 percent of the $16.66 billion in premiums written for cyber coverages globally in 2023. This indicates a growing demand for cyber insurance coverage. The number of claims has also gone up with more than 33,000 in 2023. This increase reflects the rising frequency of cyber incidents.

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

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
October 27, 2025

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER WELCOMES NEW TEAM MEMBER TO MEMBERSHIP RELATIONS DEPARTMENT

Jennifer Walker joins GVC to enhance member experiences, foster collaboration, and grow the Chamber’s business network.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Walker as Membership Relations Manager. Bringing more than 15 years of experience in business development, membership sales, customer relationship management, and community engagement, Walker will play a key role in strengthening the Chamber’s member network and advancing its mission to move business forward in Southwest Washington.

Walker holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Sonoma State University. Before relocating to Clark County, she built a successful career in California’s wine industry as a business development manager, fostering strategic partnerships and expanding market reach. Over the past year, she has been actively involved with the Battle Ground School District, using that time to become well-acquainted with Southwest Washington and strengthen her connections within the community through programs that advance education and civic engagement.

In her new role, Walker will focus on member recruitment, onboarding, and retention, while fostering meaningful connections between the Chamber, local organizations, and business owners. She will also help members grow their visibility through strategic advertising, sponsorship, and engagement opportunities offered by the Chamber.

“As the regional business landscape continues to grow, we’re proud to have Jennifer join our team to help us meet that momentum,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “With her roots in the hospitality industry and experience building strong relationships, Jennifer will be a valuable resource for our hospitality partners and an asset to the entire business community.”

For more information about the Chamber’s team and leadership, visit:https://www.vancouverusa.com/gvc-team 

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About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

Media Assets: 

• Photos: https://vancouverusa.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=97ef9507464ed7113d3a863b5&id=703c9d2627&e=b1a342932d. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16Llu6CyO2qmqosyW2nJV3Qqjg73nlnQg?usp=sharing

Salem, Oregon's Capitol Auto Group dealerships earn 11 top honors in America's "150 Best Dealerships to Work For"

One Northwest auto dealer is proving that great workplaces are defined by values. Capitol Auto Group has earned top national recognition from Automotive News’ “150 Best Dealerships to Work For” in America. The family-owned, Oregon-based company, representing Toyota, Subaru, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Nissan, received 11 national honors, with Capitol Nissan ranked #1 in the nation overall.

At an awards ceremony held on October 9 at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee, Capitol’s Human Resources Director Heather Krieves accepted the following distinctions for excellence in workplace culture and employee satisfaction:

Best Dealerships Overall
• Capitol Nissan: #1
• Capitol Subaru: #2
• Capitol Toyota: #4
• Capitol Chevrolet: #8

Best Dealerships to Work For (under 1,000 employees)
• Capitol Nissan: #1
• Capitol Subaru: #2
• Capitol Toyota: #3
• Capitol Chevrolet: #4

Best Workplace for Women
• Capitol Chevrolet: #2

Best Places for Employees Age 30 and Under
• Capitol Chevrolet: #6
• Capitol Toyota: #10

Krieves attributes the company’s success to its focus on character and culture. “We work hard to hire good people, and hold everyone accountable for treating each other with dignity and respect,” she said. “Even if someone doesn’t have the perfect skill set, if they have a good heart and put others first, we can build from there.” To reinforce those values, every Capitol employee receives a coin engraved with the phrase “Believe or Leave,” a daily reminder of the standards that define the dealership. “You either believe in our values and live them out, or you’re not a good fit,” Krieves added. 

Capitol Auto Group is a family-led business guided by dealers Matthew and Alex Casebeer. “We’re redefining what it means to buy a car from a dealership,” said Matthew Casebeer. “It’s not just a one-time transaction; it’s the start of a relationship. Our employees live right here in Salem; they’re selling to their friends and neighbors. Customers return year after year because they trust us, not only for the value of the vehicle, but for the care, service, and community connection that come with it. Empowering our employees is the real secret to our success. They don’t have to ‘check with a manager’ to do the right thing; they have the freedom to take care of people. Whether that means treating a customer to lunch or giving a child a small gift, it’s those personal touches that make our dealership special,” Matthew Casebeer added.

“Capitol Auto Group continues to set the gold standard for what Oregon dealerships can achieve when they put people first,” said Greg Remensperger, President of the Oregon Auto Dealers Association. “Their commitment to culture, character, and community makes them an exceptional employer and elevates the entire auto industry in our state. Earning 11 national honors, including Capitol Nissan's #1 dealership in America, is a testament to leadership that truly walks the talk.”

Capitol Auto Group has been recognized by Automotive News every year since the “Best Dealerships to Work For” program launched in 2011, making it the only Oregon dealership to achieve that distinction. Capitol Toyota, Subaru, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Nissan are all conveniently located off the Salem Parkway/Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway. For more information, visit www.Capitolauto.com or call 1-800-888-1391.

About Capitol Auto Group: For more than 98 years, Capitol Auto Group has proudly served the Greater Salem, Oregon area. The group includes five dealerships: Capitol Toyota, Capitol Subaru, Capitol Chevrolet/Cadillac and Capitol Nissan, plus Capitol Collision Center. For the past 14 years, Automotive News has recognized the company among the nation’s “Top 150 Best Dealerships to Work For in America.

Locations:

Capitol Toyota: 783 Auto Group Ave. NE
Capitol Subaru: 920 Auto Group Ave. NE
Capitol Chevrolet/Cadillac: 2855 Maple Ave. NE
Capitol Nissan: 3235 Cherry Ave. NE
Capitol Collision Center: 2815 Silverton Rd. NE

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

The Museum will close to the public on Saturdays from November 8, 2025 through January 31, 2026 to allow Board members and volunteers to work on projects and plan for next year.  Open Mic will be held, and tours will be available upon request.

First Friday Open Mic Music Night:          6:30-7:00 pm performer sign-up               , 7:00 pm Music

                          November 7, 2025; December 5, 2025; January 2, 2026-- 23^rd Anniversary               

Tours will be available upon request:  contact 360-247-5800 & leave a message or email museumnch88@gmail.com

Community Celebration Honoring Veterans,

Date:     November 8, 2025           co-hosted by North Clark Historical Museum and Mt. Valley Grange #79.

Venue: Mt. Valley Grange #79, 40107 NE 221^st Ave., Amboy, WA. 

Pie & Ice Cream Social:  1:00 pm in the basement             Program: 2:00 pm in the main hall

Guest speaker: Matt Hodges, Army National Guard          Organization:  Fire District #10, Gordon Brooks.

Entertainment: Amboy Middle School Band, Jeremy Gallagher, Band Director

Presentation of Colors:  The American Legion Tum Tum Post 168

All Veterans will be recognized and will receive a raffle ticket to win a Patriotic Quilt donated by the Chelatchie Quilters.

Winning raffle ticket for the quilt “Creamsicle” will be drawn.  Funds will benefit the North Clark Historical Museum’s Capital Improvement Fund.   Door prize winners will be drawn.  Funds benefit the North Clark Historical Museum’s General Fund for operating expenses.  A lively pie auction will conclude the afternoon program.  Auctioneer: John Nanny

Funds from the pie auction benefit Mt. Valley Grange #79, as well as the proceeds from the Pie and Ice Cream Social.

Open Door Stitchery Circle will meet again on February 14, 2026                               1:00 – 4:00 pm

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

No Admission Fee.                          Donations appreciated.                                Wheelchair accessible.

Visit website at northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com.

Board meetings:

Thursday, November 14th                           7:00 pm               via Zoom             Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Thursday, December 12th                           7:00 pm               via Zoom             Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Thursday, January 9th                                 7:00 pm               via Zoom             Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Wednesday, January 22nd                          2:00 pm               at the Museum

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

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

AMBOY, WASHINGTON                                                            

Event:             38^8h Annual Community Celebration Honoring Veterans

Date:               Saturday, November 8, 2025

Venue:            Mt. Valley Grange #79, 40107 NE 221^st Ave., Amboy, WA

Co-Hosts:        North Clark Historical Museum and Mt. Valley Grange #79 

Pie & Ice Cream Social at 1:00 pm in the basement.

Adults $4.00, Children (12 and under) $2.00.

Proceeds will go to Mt. Valley Grange #79 for operating expenses.

Program will begin at 2:00 pm. The Program Speaker will be Matt Hodges, Army National Guard.

North Clark area organizations will be recognized for their contributions to the community.

The organization to be highlighted is Fire District #10. The speaker will be Gordon Brooks, Fire Chief.

Danae Castle will sing a medley of Patriotic songs.

Amboy Middle School Band, directed by Jeremy Gallagher, will provide entertainment.

American Legion Tum Tum Post #168 will present the flag, lead the flag salute, and retire the flag.

All Veterans attending will receive a free raffle ticket for a special Patriotic Quilt made and donated by the Chelatchie Quilters. The quilt is lap-size and may only be won by a Veteran.

The winning ticket for the raffle quilt “Creamsicle,” a fundraiser for North Clark Historical Museum, will be drawn. Proceeds from the raffle supplement the Capital Improvement Fund. Museum Board members will provide items for the Door Prize Raffle. Proceeds from the door prize raffle supplement the General Fund. Tickets will be available in the basement and in the main hall for both drawings between 1:00 & 2:00 pm.

A Pie Auction will conclude the event; proceeds will go to Mt. Valley Grange #79.

For more information, please contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message.

Email: museumnch88@gmail.com                 northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com

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

Salem, Ore. -- Following community support for the May 2025 Salem Livability Levy, the City of Salem is expanding hours the Salem Public Library is open. Beginning November 10, both the Main Library and the West Salem Branch will be open longer to give the community more access to programs, services, and meeting spaces.

When is the Main Library open? Beginning November 10, the Main Library, 585 Liberty St. SE, will add evening hours Tuesday through Thursday. The Library will also be open on Sunday. New hours will be:

• 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

When is the West Salem Branch open? Beginning November 10, the West Salem Branch, 395 Glen Creek Rd. NW, will include an additional day and longer hours of service. New hours will be:

• 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday
• 12 p.m. -7 p.m. Wednesday
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday

New library open hours were set in response to a community survey that showed a strong preference for restored Sunday and evening hours at the Main Library as well as Monday hours at the West Salem Branch. Open hours at the Main Library will increase to 48 hours from 38 hours per week. Open hours at the West Salem Branch will increase from 10 hours to 21 hours per week.

Join an open house to celebrate! Open house celebrations are planned at each library location. The community is invited for treats from:

• 10 a.m. to noon Monday, November 10 at the West Salem Branch
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, November 16 at the Main Library

Why is this important? Services were cut in 2024 due to a large funding gap in the City of Salem General Fund caused by rising costs and statewide limits on property taxes. Library patrons reported inability to access Library services as a result. 

Expanded service is made possible by the five-year Livability Levy, passed by voters in May 2025. The levy allowed the Library to add three staff positions and to fill vacant positions. The levy also supports operations of Parks and Recreation and Center 50+ services to the community. Learn more about the Livability Levy proposal on the City’s website.
 

Other communities often use similar levies to fund schools, public transportation, and other local services.
 

For more information about available services and programs at Salem Public Library, visit www.cityofsalem.net/community/library or contact library staff at rary@cityofsalem.net">library@cityofsalem.net or 503-588-6315.

Vancouver, Wash. – County Manager Kathleen Otto is seeking a volunteer to fill an opening for seat position number one on the county’s Ethics Review Commission.

The opening is to fill an unexpired three-year term which begins immediately and ends Aug. 1, 2026.

Commission members must be qualified in the area of ethical conduct in government. During their tenure, no member shall hold elected office or be an officer of any political party nor be a county employee.

The commission is responsible for hearing, investigating, and ruling on complaints of violations of the code of ethics in Clark County Code 2.07.01, Code of Ethical Conduct. The group has regular quarterly meetings and special meetings as needed. Meetings are hybrid with options to attend in-person or virtually.

The county’s Code of Ethical Conduct is the result of a voter-approved amendment to the county charter. It was approved by voters in November 2021 and stipulated a deadline of July 31, 2022, for the council to adopt the code and establish the commission.

The county council is required to confirm commission appointees recommended by the county manager.

Anyone interested in applying should send a letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov. 

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.

Learn more about the Ethics Review Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/ethics-review-commission.

Just after 1:55 PM, 9-1-1 received a call to an industrial area of the St John’s Neighborhood in North Portland. Initial reports from the caller stated that a large pile of wood products was on fire and that no homes or structures were threatened.

The first arriving Engine and Truck Companies from St John’s arrived within minutes of being dispatched. The Engine officer took command of the incident and reported a large pile of pallets and wood debris with smoke throughout the pile. Crews are aware of this location as over the past couple years, similar fires have been extinguished here. With this prior knowledge and experience, the first due Truck immediately set up its aerial ladder for an elevated master stream. This elevated master stream allows firefighters to reach deep-seated fire within the pile.

As additional units arrived, the first Chief Officer took Command. Incident Command then assigned the on-scene resources to the following tasks: establish a water supply, recon the area to ensure no exposures were present, confirm the best access to the different areas of the wood pile, and set up for additional aerial master streams.

As this fire came in in the early hours of the morning, fire crews initially applied water from these elevated master streams. As site personnel returned to the site, they worked with firefigheters to spread out the wood pile and extinguish any hot spots. This was accomplished with the use of some heavy machinery and excavators that were already on site and were operated by the location’s employees. Four engines and three trucks remain on the scene this morning after the incident was recalled to ensure extinguishment. There were no injuries reported during this incident and no residents were displaced.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to thank our partners with the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC), Portland Water Bureau, and Port of Portland Terminal 4.

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Date: Wed, Nov 19th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_nov_19_alcohol/

Nine frequently asked questions related to alcohol and brain function, with an emphasis on adolescents: 

Why is 21 years the legal age to purchase alcohol?
Why does alcohol give you the spins?
Does alcohol truly relieve stress?
Do teenagers get hangovers?
What does alcohol do to sleep?
Are there long-term effects of adolescent drinking?
What’s wrong with drinking games?
How does alcohol cause memory impairments
Can drinking on an empty stomach increase intoxication?

Many lores and misrepresentations about beverage alcohol (ethanol) abound and are retold throughout human history. Decades of scientific studies on alcohol effects on brain and behavior, however, are just as intriguing. From myths to data, this talk will explore the complicated relationships humans have with alcohol.

Dr. Kathy Grant is Professor and Chief of Neuroscience at OHSU. Dr. Aqilah McCane is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Neuroscience at OHSU. 

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.

10/23/25

CASE: 23CR08557

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Angela Lucero today sentenced 38-year-old Brian Matthew Cort to 25 years prison. The sentence follows convictions for Sodomy in the First Degree and two counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree. 

The extra long prison sentence comes under the enhancements provided by Jessica’s Law. The law took effect in Oregon in 2006 and imposes a mandatory sentence of 25 years prison for sex crimes, including sodomy, when committed against children who are under the age of 12.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Reid Schweitzer prosecuted the case for the state.

After the sentencing he said: “The Defendant took advantage of a young child who trusted him, for his own selfish desires. He is paying the price for the pain and betrayal that he inflicted on this child. I am grateful that the jury saw the truth in the child’s testimony and held his abuser accountable.”

The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Gresham Police Department detectives Frederick Huffman IV and Adam Wright, as well as former detective Aaron Dressler for their outstanding work on this case. The Office also thanks Kyle Mitchell and the team of forensic scientists at the Oregon State Police Forensic Sciences Division for their impressive work on this case, providing important evidence and testimony at trial.

MCDA would also like to thank MCDA Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera and former Victim Advocate Emma Kane for the care and compassion shown to the victim throughout this case.

The Facts:

On September 6, 2020 Cort met with an 11-year old boy to go kayaking on the Columbia River. Cort was a friend of the child’s family and had babysat for him before. Before Cort took the child kayaking, he brought the child to his residence and sexually assaulted him. Then they went kayaking for the day. When the boy’s father picked him up from the river, the child told him what happened and the father called the police. DNA analysis of the child’s clothing corroborated his disclosures about the sexual abuse. 

                                            ###MCDA###

Update 10/27/25 9:35am

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

The investigation remains ongoing. 

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

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

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

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating this homicide.
 

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

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

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

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

Updates will be made as more information becomes available.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Isabel Anderson
Phone: (206) 640-5388
Email: Isabel.anderson@redcross.org

American Red Cross Offers Tips to Keep Halloween Safe and Fun

[PORTLAND, OCTOBER 27^th] — The tree leaves are changing colors, crisp cool air is filling the evenings, and the spookiest night of the year is right around the corner. As little superheroes, cartoon characters, and ghosts prepare to fill neighborhood streets for trick-or-treat fun, the American Red Cross is sharing simple steps to help families stay safe while enjoying all the thrills of Halloween night.

“Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or welcoming visitors at your door, a few safety precautions can make the evening both fun and worry-free,” said Isabel Anderson, Red Cross Cascades Region Spokesperson. “These tips help ensure everyone gets home safely — with plenty of treats and smiles to show for it.”

Five Spooky Smart Red Cross Tips for a Safe Halloween

1. Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen.
   • Try using face makeup instead of a mask. Masks can block little one’s view and make it difficult to see.
   • Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight to light their way.
2. Use flame-resistant costumes.
   • Trick-or-treat routes and Halloween parties often include candles, fire pits, and decorative lighting, which can easily ignite long or flowing costumes. Kids’ costumes often have loose sleeves, capes, or tulle skirts, which are more likely to catch fire — so flame resistance adds vital protection.
3. Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street.
   • If no sidewalk is available, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic.
   • Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner.
   • Don’t cut across yards or use alleys.
   • Don’t cross between parked cars.
   • Drivers – use extra caution. The youngsters may forget to look both ways before crossing.
4. If you’re handing out treats, turn your porch light on and make sure there’s a clear path to your porch.
   • Turn on outdoor lights so trick-or-treaters can avoid any obstacles
5. A grown-up should check the goodies before eating.
   • Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards.
   • Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
   • Before anyone enjoys their candy haul, adults should inspect all treats and remove any loose candy, open packages, or potential choking hazards. Discard any unfamiliar or unbranded items.

Accidents can happen, even on a fun night out. Download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert first aid advice — available in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

With a few simple precautions, families can enjoy a safe and memorable Halloween night filled with laughter, community, and plenty of sweet rewards.

Click here to read more Red Cross Halloween safety tips. 

How is the American Red Cross celebrating Halloween this year? Check out some spooky old footage found that tells you why the Red Cross really wants your blood? 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

###

DPSST PRIVATE SECURITY HB2183 IMPLEMENTATION

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Vancouver, Wash. – On October 26, 2025, at around 7:28 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to the report of an assault on a woman who was jogging in the 1100 block of SE 99^th Avenue. At around 7:16 a.m. the woman told police that a male riding a bike approached her from behind, grabbed her genital area and pushed her to the ground, causing her to hit her head. The two struggled on the ground and the woman was eventually able to fight off male who rode away on his bike. The victim suffered a bump on her head but no other serious physical injuries. The attack appears random.

A nearby video camera was located showing an image of the suspect who is described as a younger white male, late teens/early 20’s, 5’ 7”, wearing black jeans and a grey hoodie, riding a bike.

Anyone with information who can identify this individual is asked to call Vancouver Police.

Given the random nature of the attack, community members in that area should use extra caution and consider walking or running with another person.

The Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit is continuing this investigation.

###

RELEASE DATE:               Oct. 25, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-44027
 

Gresham, Ore.— Detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred in the parking lot of adult entertainment club in the Rockwood Neighborhood.

Officers with Gresham Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 17500 block of SE Stark St., before 3 a.m.  The victim was driven by private vehicle to an area hospital as police were responding. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Officers responded to area of the shooting and to the hospital. When officers arrived, they found evidence of gunfire in the parking lot of an adult entertainment club. The suspect/s fled the scene prior to their arrival.

This is the second shooting in the 17500 block of SE Stark St. this month. Officers responded to a shooting in this area on Oct. 13, just after midnight. In that case, a vehicle and a business was damaged, but no gunshot victims were reported.

Gresham Police detectives are investigating the shooting.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2317 and reference case #25-44027.

###30###

Dr. William “Terry” Brown, Clark’s Vice President of Instruction, attributes the college’s continued growth trajectory to dedicated faculty, staff, and administrators. They provide students with a high-quality educational experience, and who listen and respond with initiatives based on what the community needs and wants. 

Dr. Brown said, “This year marks an exciting milestone as we launch new programs in surgical technology and advanced manufacturing and welcome a full Bachelor of Computer Science cohort. Our mission is clear: to prepare students for the in-demand jobs of today’s and tomorrow’s workforce and for full participation in the growth and wellbeing of our communities in Clark County and beyond. Clark College is on the move!” 

About Washington SBCTC 
The Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) makes higher education accessible and affordable by advocating, coordinating, and directing Washington state’s system of 34 public community and technical colleges. SBCTC collectively serves over 262,000 students each year, which makes it the largest system of public higher education in Washington. They serve over 50% of students of color. They are accessible, affordable, and connected to K-12 schools, universities, and employers.

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher educationand serves over 8,500 students per term. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. 

Clark College offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 47% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

####

PORTLAND, Ore.— The owner and operator of La Popular, a money service business with locations in Oregon and Washington, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to launder drug trafficking proceeds.

Brenda Lili Barrera Orantes, 40, a Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

According to court documents, Barerra Orantes operated La Popular stores in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Woodburn, Odell and Canby, Oregon, as well as in Vancouver, Washington. From August 1, 2024, through November 1, 2024, La Popular stores sent over $4.2 million dollars in wire transfers to places in Mexico. During this same time period, Barrera Orantes and other co-conspirators accepted $49,500 in cash represented as drug proceeds and laundered the funds through La Popular stores. Barrera Orantes charged a ten percent commission to help launder the money. Barrera Orantes admitted that when she wired these funds she used false sender information, structured wire transfers into smaller amounts, and used different La Popular stores to help conceal the drug proceeds.  

On April 16, 2025, investigators executed federal search warrants at Barrera Orantes’ Beaverton residence and three La Popular stores in Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Vancouver and arrested Barrera Orantes. During the warrants, agents seized $316,542 in cash, a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, jewelry, and high-end clothing.

On May 13, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 23-count indictment charging Barrera Orantes with money laundering and conspiracy, failure to file a currency transaction report, and failure to file a suspicious activity report.

Barrera Orantes pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. She also agreed to forfeit her Beaverton residence and all the seized property involved in her money laundering offense.

Barrera Orantes faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced on January 21, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team. It is being prosecuted by Christopher L. Cardani and Julia Jarrett, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— Temika Gardner, 40, of Portland, made her first appearance in federal court today after being charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on October 23, 2025, Gardner was near the vehicle of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Deportation Officers after they made a lawful arrest. After an escape attempt, officers were able to gain control of the arrestee. As they were escorting the arrestee back, Gardner placed her hands on officers multiple times to impede their movement. Gardner struck one officer in the face, grabbing ahold of his face covering and throwing it to the ground. She swung at a second officer at least two times, knocking off his sunglasses. While officers were focusing on the arrestee, Gardner pulled the face mask of a third officer with enough force to pull him back. Gardner was arrested after she swung at a fourth officer, striking the left side of his jaw.

Gardner made her first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

Meeting Notification for 10/27/2025

Hockinson School District #98

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

Monday October 27, 2025 at 6:00 pm

Hockinson Community Center, 15916 NE 182nd Ave. Brush Prairie, WA 98606

Zoom link available at http://www.hocksd.org">www.hocksd.org

SALEM - The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via zoom at 1:00 p.m. on November 3. Its agenda includes approval of 2025 Oregon Heritage Grants.
 

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

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

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

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

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from October 13 to October 15, and from October 19 to October 20, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on October 20. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on October 13, October 14, October 15, or October 19. Prior to this detection, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on October 12, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

CORRECTIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Corrections Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on November 12, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Amended Agenda Items:

1.  Introductions

2. Approve August 12, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Shane Bond; DPSST No. 59946; Union County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Cindy Park

4. John Deardorff; DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Emily Fisk; DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Jesus Gutierrez, DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution
    Presented by Jennifer Levario

8. Bonnie Kessell; DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

9. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

10. Administrative Revision Request: Parole and Probation Training Programs
    Presented by Chris Enquist

11. Agency Updates

12. Next Corrections Policy Committee Meeting: February 10, 2026, at 10:00am

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Corrections Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

A passerby called 911 just before 4am Friday morning after noticing smoke coming from a storage complex that backs up to Bear Creek Rd at Janalee Pl. Crews responded to the area and searched both storage complexes in the area until finding smoke coming from a building in the Storage Solutions complex on Twin Knolls Dr. Fire was found in one unit and spreading to adjacent units in that building. The fire was quickly extinguished, and crews began removing contents from adjacent units to prevent further damage to property.  
 

The owner of the storage complex and the managers assisted in identifying the owners of the individual units and notification will be on going. The fire is still under investigation but appears to be accidental. The building damaged consisted of seventh (17) 10ft x 30ft large storage units, all but 2 were occupied with storage. Three units were damaged by fire and the rest have differing levels of smoke damage. Estimated loss to the building is $25,000 and content loss is $100,000.
 

Most storage locations require, or at least suggest, occupants obtain insurance coverage for your contents. Check with your insurance provider to see if storage items are covered under your current policies or if additional coverage may be needed. The design of these storage complexes does limit damage to just the single building, one of 16 buildings in the complex. Any storage outside of the building that burned was not affected.

The following information is in reference to two deaths investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. These investigations are related to a shooting at a Hazel Dell convenience store on Oct. 17, 2025.

Decedent 1:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Kumar, Pardeep   Age: 37 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Penetrating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other person(s) with handgun

Place of injury: 7-11 convenience store

Decedent 2:

This individual died on 10/17/2025 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Taylor, Ryan   Age: 26 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Perforating gunshot wound of head

Manner of death:  Suicide

How the injury occurred: Shot self with handgun

Place of injury: convenience store

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Media release issue date: 10/23/2025

UPDATE

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that her detectives have arrested two people in connection to the homicide of Christopher Smith that occurred in a parking lot at the intersection of Highway 34 and Peoria Road, east of Corvallis on October 4, 2025.  

Steve Dwayne Simmons Jr., 44, of Albany, was arrested on October 17, 2025 by members of the Linn County Regional SWAT Team at the Geary Street Urgent Care located at the intersection of Queen Avenue SE and Geary Street in Albany.  Simmons attempted to flee law enforcement but was apprehended after a short foot pursuit.  Simmons was transported to the Linn County Jail and charged with Murder in the Second Degree.        

On October 22, 2025, Detectives presented their investigation to the Linn County Grand Jury.  As a result, Simmons was indicted on Murder in the First Degree, Murder in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

The Linn County Grand Jury also indicted Joshua Edward Gabell, 41, of Corvallis, on Murder in the Second Degree and Robbery in the First Degree. 

Gabell has been in custody at the Linn County Jail since October 10, 2025, when he was lodged for an unrelated Parole Violation. 

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office has been assisted in their investigation by the Oregon State University Public Safety Department, the Albany Police Department, the Corvallis Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. 

No further details will be released on this investigation as it is continuing.  Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (866) 557-9988.      

Previous Press Releases

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is releasing further information regarding the homicide that occurred on Saturday, October 4^th on Highway 34 and Peoria Road, east of Corvallis.  When the Corvallis Fire Department arrived the morning of the incident, they found a single male occupant in a gray 2013 Chevrolet Camaro that had been crashed into a fence.  As they started to render aid to the male, they found he had been shot.  Deputies arrived shortly after the fire department and began a criminal investigation.  The occupant of the Chevrolet Camaro was identified as Christopher Joseph Smith, 30, from Albany.  Smith died on scene from his injuries.  Linn County Detectives are investigating the homicide. Smith’s family has been notified of his passing.  Anyone with information on this incident should contact Detective Scott Tennant at (541) 967-3950.      

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that this morning, October 4, 2025, at 4:19 a.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call for a crash near Peoria Road and Highway 34, near Corvallis in Linn County.  The Corvallis Fire Department arrived at the reported crash location prior to law enforcement’s arrival.  As the Corvallis Fire Department began rendering aid to the single occupant of the vehicle, they observed injuries not related to the crash.  The Corvallis Fire Department attempted lifesaving efforts, but the single occupant died at the scene of the crash. 

Detectives from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and are currently investigating the death as a homicide.  At this time, the name of the deceased is not being released and no additional information will be made to the public.      

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Executive & Business Meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

Guests and members of the public may attend in-person or virtually. 

Virtual Link - Please click this URL to join: https://zoom.us/j/94961285856 or join by phone: 1-253-215-8782 Webinar ID: 949-6128-5856

We encourage and welcome all members of our community to engage with our board. Please email questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or call 503.408.2100 to arrange for translation services at least 72 hours before this meeting. Closed captioning provided on zoom. Other appropriate auxiliary aids and services may be provided upon request and appropriate advance notice.

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Parkrose Community Award presented to Donell Morgan, recognizing November as National Native American Heritage Month, consent agenda, Division 22 standard and assurances annual report, ASB report, Board reports, OSBA elections, first reading of policy, City council district 1 update, Goals measures, Equity lens, Levy/bond discussion. 

Electronic/Virtual Public Comment Protocol - If you wish to submit a public comment before, or during this Board Meeting please fill out this electronic public comment form before "Public Comments" on the agenda: https://forms.gle/5sUjRZjxJikqmqVg9. If you don’t submit your comment in time we will read it at the next board meeting.

In-Person Public Comment Protocol - Upon arrival at the meeting, please fill out an Intent-to-Speak card and hand it to the Board Assistant prior to "In-person Public Comment" on the agenda. You will have a 3 minute time limit.

Board Meeting Video Recordings - For those of you who cannot attend we will post a recording of the meeting on our website at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2114.

10/23/25

Case: 24CR16572

Portland, OR- Shondel Lamar Larkin, 53-years-old, was sentenced today to a lifetime of supervision under the Oregon Psychiatric Security Review Board. Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge David Rees imposed the sentence after a stipulated facts trial today. That is a type of trial in which both the prosecution and defense agree on the facts that will be shared with the judge, there is no jury in the case.

Larkin was charged with Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon for stabbing Michael Brady to death on a TriMet light rail train on March 29, 2024 in the Portland area.

The  PSRB will decide how long Larkin is kept at the State Hospital in Salem and whether he can ever be released back into the community.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Sean Hughey and Deputy District Attorney Julian Samuels prosecuted the case for the state.  After the sentencing Hughey said: 

“Michael Brady was a hard-working Portlander going about his daily life: riding the MAX train and planning to return home to his wife and young son.  His life was cut short by a man who was dangerously mentally ill and who attacked Mr. Brady without provocation due to the defendant’s delusions.  Shondel Larkin will be confined to the Oregon State Hospital, but no legal outcome can restore the extraordinary loss felt by Mr. Brady’s loved ones and community.”

Samuels said, 

“Our thoughts, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office,  are with the  Brady family and the community. Acts of violence such as the one in this case are unacceptable. Public transit is a place where every rider should feel safe. This outcome will place Mr. Larkin in the custody of the Oregon State Hospital where he will no longer be a danger to our community.”

TriMet’s Chief Safety and Security Officer, Andrew Wilson said::

“Our hearts go out to the family of Michael Brady. While today’s sentencing cannot undo their loss, we appreciate the work of the Multnomah District Attorney’s Office to make sure his assailant does not hurt anyone else. Based on media reports, it appears Shondel Larkin should never have been in Oregon. 

We at TriMet will continue working with law enforcement to hold people who commit crimes accountable and with our community partners to address societal issues, such as mental illness and homelessness. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detective Shaye Samora for her outstanding work on this difficult case. 

MCDA would also like to highlight the work of Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera who provided care and support to the victims.

THE FACTS:

On March 29, 2024 Michael Brady was riding the MAX train home from work. Shondel Larkin sat in a seat across the aisle. The two men did not know each other and had no interactions. Suddenly Larkin stood up with a large butcher knife in his left hand and began stabbing Brady.

The two struggled as Larkin continued to stab Brady. Brady got out of his seat and moved toward the front of the train. Video from inside the Max train shows that Larkin continued to stab Brady multiple times. The two men eventually fell to the floor near the doors and video shows Larkin again stab Brady multiple times before standing up and walking back to stand near his seat.

Michael Brady died from his injuries on the MAX platform at the NE 82nd Avenue station.

Larkin later told investigators that voices he heard made him believe the victim was going to kill him, and or assist law enforcement with providing information related to his past.

                                                ###MCDA###

Vancouver Fire responded to a structure fire at 10008 NE 53rd Ave just after 8 am this morning, October 23rd.  Several callers stated they heard explosions followed by large amounts of black smoke and flames.  First arriving crews found heavy fire involvement in the garage and rooms above it as well as 2 vehicles parked in the driveway.  Firefighters began extinguishing the wall of flames from the exterior prior to moving inside to search the 2 story home and continue fire suppression.  Two residents were displaced following the tragic event.  Fortunately, no human or pet lives were lost or injured.  Six Vancouver Fire companies were also assisted by Fire District 6.  Clark Country Fire Marshals are investigating the cause.

• October 27-31 is Red Ribbon Week in Salem, part of National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month
• One of this year’s messages is preventing opioid use.

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem and the Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion, and Polk Counties are working together to teach kids how to live healthy, drug-free lives. During Red Ribbon Week, kids at all eight Marion County Boys & Girls Clubs will take part in fun, interactive activities and lessons about staying drug-free.

Red Ribbon Week is the largest and oldest national prevention program for youth in the country. This is the second year the City has partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs for this observance.

“Local Hospitals and Emergency Room data continues to show that children, teens, and young adults are overdosing and sometimes dying from opioids, including from pills laced with fentanyl. In 2024, 10-to-24-year-olds, visited ER’s for opioid overdoses at a rate of 44 per 100,000 people in Marion County. We want to see that rate get to zero,” said Laurie Shaw Casarez, Opioid Prevention Coordinator for the City. Her work is funded by money from national opioid settlements.

Find more drug statistics about Marion County.

 Activities for Red Ribbon Week

This year’s theme is “Life is a Puzzle. Solve it Drug Free.” From October 27 to October 31, each day will have a special focus:

• Monday: Community & Connection – Kids will make a red construction paper linked chain to hang in their club. They will learn the importance of being linked into a supportive community to avoid loneliness and make good choices.
• Tuesday: Life is a Puzzle: Solve it Drug Free – Kids will play with puzzles donated by community members. They will learn how making good choices piece by piece helps build a bright future, just like putting together a puzzle.
• Wednesday: Wake Up Drug Free – Younger kids will make positive affirmation collages with morning-themed pictures to keep by their beds. Older kids will decorate doors with the morning theme at the clubs. These activities will remind kids to start each day optimistic, brave and drug-free.
• Thursday and Friday: Say Boo to Bad Choices (Drugs are a Trick, not a Treat) – Peer pressure can feel like a scary monster. Kids make little pompom monsters to take home with the saying “Stronger than the Monster.” Children will also choose their personal refusal skills strategies through lessons and discussions. 

Middle schoolers at the clubs will learn about the impact of vaping and the dangers of fentanyl through videos and discussions. They will make creative journals that will include a personalized 4-step peer pressure exit plan along with other activities.

Other Observances

The City is also planning a Red Ribbon Week proclamation at the October 27 meeting of the Salem City Council.

“Red Ribbon Week serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate and develop healthy, happy and brave children and youth through drug prevention activities celebrating a drug-free life,” the proclamation reads.

To honor Red Ribbon Week, the Union Street Railroad Bridge, now a pedestrian bridge, will be lit up in red.  

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Balch Gulch Bridge, which spans the Lower Macleay Trail in Northwest Portland, is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge’s nomination was recommended by Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) at its June 2025 meeting and officially approved by the National Park Service in September. Its inclusion in the National Register underscores the value of preserving Oregon’s infrastructure and the stories it tells about community development and engineering innovation. Today, the bridge remains a symbol of Portland’s development and planning during a defining moment in its history.
 

The Balch Gulch Bridge played a key role in the growth of Northwest Portland. When it opened in 1905, the bridge significantly improved connectivity to the Willamette Heights neighborhood by extending streetcar service across the deep gulley containing Balch Creek. This improved access made the area more attractive to new residents and helped spur a wave of development that lasted nearly a decade. The timing of the bridge’s completion also aligned with the 1905 Lewis and Clark Centennial, held nearby at Guild’s Lake. The City of Portland promoted the streetcar route into Willamette Heights as a scenic outing for fairgoers, and several viewpoints accessible via the bridge were featured in promotional images of the fairgrounds. These efforts helped elevate the city’s image and attract outside investment, while the bridge itself played a central role in shaping the immediate area’s early growth.
 

In addition to its historical impact, the Balch Gulch Bridge is also recognized for its engineering significance. The bridge stands as a rare surviving example of its type and of a connection technology that fell out of use more than a century ago. Its two steel trusses—the load-bearing framework made of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal members forming a series of triangles—are fastened with flexible pin connections. This method was widely used in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries but was eventually replaced by rivets and, later, bolts. Today, only thirteen pin-connected highway bridges remain in Oregon, and among them, the Balch Gulch Bridge is the only one with a deck truss configuration, meaning its trusses are located beneath the road surface. As such, the Balch Gulch Bridge offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of bridge design and turn-of-the-century engineering technologies.
 

In 2014, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) completed a comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridge by replacing all components above the historic deck trusses. As part of the project, the historic bridge was carefully restored with a new sidewalk, deck, and handrail system. The riveted steel beams were replaced with modern replicas. The work garnered PBOT a 2015 Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association for Historical Renovation and Preservation.
 

“It’s an honor to be the caretakers of this historic bridge and we are committed to maintaining its integrity,” said Portland Transportation Director Millicent Williams. “As recently as this summer, the bureau began the construction phase of a major preservation project to repaint the bridge and install new streetlights to increase nighttime visibility for all travelers.”
 

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.
 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

Vancouver, Wash. — Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will conclude her service on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) this month after completing the maximum terms allowed by law. Treasurer Topper was appointed to the Commission in July 2017 by Governor Jay Inslee to serve as the elected official representative on the 11-member board.

During her tenure, Treasurer Topper served as Chair of the Commission’s Audit Committee and represented Washington nationally as a member of the National Conference of State Housing Boards (NCSHB) for three years, ending her service as First Vice President. In these roles, she helped guide programs that expanded access to affordable housing and homeownership opportunities across Clark County and Washington State. Among her local achievements was partnering Clark County with the Commission to create and administer a $2 million down payment assistance program for moderate- and low-income first-time homebuyers. Through this partnership, the Commission matched up to $15,000 per loan, providing a total of $60,000 in support to qualified homebuyers.

Under her leadership and collaboration with local partners, 2,355 affordable homes were built in Clark County using the Commission’s federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, contributing significantly to the region’s supply of quality, affordable housing.

“Serving on the Washington State Housing Finance Commission has been a true honor,” said Treasurer Topper. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the progress we’ve made to make housing more accessible for families across Clark County and throughout Washington. The need for affordable housing continues to grow, and it’s critical that we keep investing in solutions that help working families, seniors, and individuals find stable, affordable homes. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as the local elected official representative and to contribute to meaningful solutions that support our residents and communities.”

The Washington State Housing Finance Commission works to increase housing access and affordability through innovative financing programs that support homebuyers, renters, and community development projects statewide.

For more information about the Commission’s work, visit https://www.wshfc.org.

Last week, students from Ridgefield High School’s Child Development I class, taught by Anne Simms, visited the Early Learning Center (ELC)—Ridgefield School District’s preschool program—for a special day of hands-on learning and connection.
 

As part of their unit on preschool development, the high schoolers recently completed a children’s book study and designed hands-on activities to pair with their chosen books. During their visit, they had the opportunity to observe ELC classrooms in action, assist teachers, and work directly with preschool students.
 

“This visit was a wonderful way for students to apply what they’ve been learning in class,” said Simms. “They got to see firsthand how play and exploration help children learn and grow. Many of them had those lightbulb moments—realizing that learning through play doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.”
 

Simms reintroduced the Child Development program this school year after it had been on pause since 2020. The class emphasizes project-based learning and helps students explore human development from birth through adolescence while building practical skills and awareness of careers in education and related fields.
 

For students like 10th grader Ginger Gorycki, the experience offered both inspiration and insight. “It helps you see the real side of working with young children,” Gorycki said. “I personally loved the experience and am now thinking about working in a preschool as a special education teacher or speech pathologist someday.”
 

Classmate Taylor Bush agreed, saying, “I would definitely urge other students to take this class because it’s so much fun, but you also learn a lot that you wouldn’t in a regular health class. It takes patience and understanding to work with kids, but it’s so rewarding.”
 

The visit also highlighted the strong partnership between Ridgefield’s high school and early learning programs. ELC Lead Preschool Teacher Jody Harris praised the students’ enthusiasm and impact: “What a joy to have our Spuds! What an amazing group of students! It was such a pleasure having them come work with our little Hashbrowns. They brought so much joy to our classroom—engaging with the children and giving them opportunities to learn from a different lens (the ‘big kids’!). It was a wonderful day, and we can’t wait to have them back. Go Spuds!”
 

The collaboration was a meaningful reminder of Ridgefield’s commitment to learning at every level—and how each stage of education can build on the next to strengthen the entire community.
 

Interested in preschool enrollment?
There are still spots available in Ridgefield School District’s Early Learning Center program. The ELC offers full tuition and need-based scholarships for qualifying families. Visit thersd.org/ELC to learn more and get enrolled.

(CASCADE LOCKS, Ore.) – You may ask what’s in a name, but for Oregon Wildlife Foundation’s gift shops, it’s about underscoring the organization’s wildlife conservation work. 

Spruce Gifts and Provisions stores in Bonneville and Hood River are rebranding as OWF Gift Shops, reflecting a commitment to connect visitors directly with the Foundation’s mission. Owned and operated by the Oregon Wildlife Foundation (OWF), the flagship store at the Bonneville Fish Hatchery opened in 1989. Its sister store, on Oak Street in downtown Hood River opened in 2020. 

OWF Gift Shops General Manager Heather Pola said the shift better aligned retail operations with the Foundation’s purpose.

“Our goal is to increase awareness of OWF,” Pola said. “We’re using our gift shops as a vehicle to drive more traffic to the Foundation’s website, deepen awareness of our work, and give back to the cause.”

OWF Gift Shops feature curated merchandise from Oregon-based brands and artists, nature-inspired goods, and items that complement OWF-funded initiatives. A portion of each purchase supports the Foundation’s work, which focuses on conserving and protecting habitats for wildlife across Oregon. 

“Net proceeds from sales are an important part of how Oregon Wildlife Foundation is able to carry out our statewide conservation work,” said OWF Executive Director Tim Greseth. “It's also another way for us to engage with the public and help make them aware of the wildlife conservation challenges we have in Oregon.”

Coffee, Community, and Conservation

As part of the rebrand, OWF’s on-site café, Herman’s Coffee Bar, also underwent an overhaul this year. Pola said the team updated its menu with a new focus on beverages and snacks from Pacific Northwest companies.

“We’ve refreshed our offerings with a focus on local flavors and regional brands,” Pola said. “Every cup of coffee now ties into our broader mission of supporting Oregon’s wildlife and communities.”

Growing Awareness and Giving Back

In February, OWF Gift Shops introduced a donation-at-checkout feature, enabling visitors to easily contribute to the Foundation’s conservation efforts. Pola said the program has already generated vital funds while reinforcing OWF’s visibility.

Looking ahead, OWF Gift Shops plans to expand co-branded collaborations with Oregon companies, introduce new products linked to active conservation projects, and continue community outreach events such as group hikes, local artist showcases, and seasonal gatherings.

“The evolution of the gift shops is really inspiring,” Pola said. “We welcome everyone to visit and see how every purchase supports Oregon’s wildlife.”

For more information, including location and hours, visit www.myowf.org/owfgiftshop.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an apolitical operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information, visit www.myowf.org.

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EUGENE, Ore.— A Eugene, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for using social media platforms, including Snapchat and Instagram, to exploit and coerce children in Oregon, New York, and Florida.

Vincent Alan Elder, 32, was sentenced to 288 months in federal prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution to each of his three victims.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Elder used social media to meet and communicate with three identified minors in 2022 and 2023. He sent online payments to encourage a minor victim in Florida to make and send nude photos. To obtain the same from a minor victim in Oregon, he sent vape pens, food delivery orders, and left bags of cash near the victim’s house. When a minor victim in New York tried to cease contact with him, Elder threatened to tell the victim’s mother or even involve that victim’s younger sibling—an act known as sextortion.

After learning of the allegations, in November 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed search warrants for Elder’s person, devices, and motel room. On December 1, 2023, the FBI arrested Elder. A search of his devices showed chats with some of the minor victims, the Oregon victim’s personal information, and nude images of the Florida victim.

“I am thankful for the brave victims who came forward, and I am grateful to the law enforcement agencies who helped bring this dangerous predator to justice,” said United States Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “We will continue to seek significant prison sentences for anyone who targets our communities’ children.”

“Investigating crimes against children is some of the most important work we do at the FBI,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “The crimes committed in this instance were egregious, and we moved swiftly to stop the predatory behavior. Even one child subjected to such abuse is one too many, and we continue to work with our local law enforcement partners to find instances of abuse and protect our communities.” 

On January 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a seven-count indictment charging Elder with Using a Minor to Produce a Visual Depiction of Sexually Explicit Conduct and Attempt, Coercion and Enticement of a Minor and Attempt, and Possession of Child Pornography. 

On July 29, 2025, Elder pleaded guilty to two counts of Using a Minor to Produce a Visual Depiction of Sexually Explicit Conduct with regard to the New York and Florida victims and one count of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor with regard to the Oregon victim.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Springfield Police Department and the Eugene Police Department. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

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

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, Oct. 30, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Riparian pilot study updates
• Review of roads and steep slopes pilot study methods
• Compliance Monitoring Program symposium take aways
• Review 2026 Compliance Monitoring Program Committee meeting schedule

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing ta.l.friasbedolla@odf.oregon.gov">Marta Frias-Bedolla.

The CMP Committee assists efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.

This new community will provide Permanent Supportive Housing for longtime Portland residents who have historically faced barriers to stable housing and are ready for a place to call home.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives (PCRI) will cut the ribbon on a much-needed Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) project in the North and Northeast Portland area on Friday, October 24.

“The opening of Kafoury Court means 40 units will be available for individuals suffering from chronic homelessness and will now be given an opportunity to have a place they can call home,” said Executive Director Kymberly Horner. “Our work is rooted in restoring access and dignity for Portlanders who’ve faced barriers to housing for far too long. This is what community reinvestment truly looks like.” 

The PSH units will consist of one-bedroom and studio apartments. People with the highest barriers to housing and who are currently experiencing homelessness will be given priority through Multnomah County’s Coordinated Access priority pool. Developed for residents who have experienced these challenges, Kafoury Court will do more than just put a roof over their heads. 

In partnership with Northwest Pilot Project (NWPP) and Black Community of Portland (BCP), residents will receive onsite supports right from the start, including assistance during the leasing process. PCRI will also place permanent Support Specialists onsite to work with NWPP and BCP.  Acting as a liaison for residents after move-in, the Support Specialists will ensure long-term housing and health stability. Once settled, individuals can receive voluntary supportive services and community-based connections to help maintain stability, pursue personal goals, and improve overall well-being.

"Northwest Pilot Project is so pleased to be part of this new housing option for older adults who've experienced chronic homelessness,” said Laura Golino de Lovato, Executive Director at Northwest Pilot Project. “Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population in the Portland Metro area. Kafoury Court represents safe and lasting housing stability for one of the most vulnerable populations in our community. We're looking forward to working in partnership with Black Community of Portland, and with PCRI."

The building is designed to foster community and connection, with every space was designed with comfort, safety, and dignity in mind. A community room anchors the corner of the building and opens to the outside as well as sunrooms on each floor, designed to spark community connection. These shared spaces help prevent the isolation that can often occur when living alone. The community room will feature a piano, open to anyone who wishes to play or simply relax and enjoy the music.

We invite you to join us for the Grand Opening of Kafoury Court.

Kafoury Court Grand Opening
Friday, October 24, 2025
4080 NE Grand Ave., Portland, Or.
11:15am – 2pm
Media tours available upon request (please call to schedule)

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Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives (PCRI) was formed in 1992 in Portland, Oregon in response to a housing crisis. PCRI, a 501c3, is the largest provider of affordable housing and housing services for low-income residents in North and inner Northeast Portland (N/NE). They are dedicated to creating and maintaining affordable housing for historically underserved communities, and working to build generational wealth for our residents. Through direct services, homeownership counseling, and property management of affordable rental units, PCRI works to create stability for the participants they serve.  The mission of PCRI is to preserve, expand and manage affordable housing in the City of Portland and provide access to—and advocacy for— services for the residents of North and Northeast Portland. Their vision is of a future where the cycle of serial displacement is eliminated, resulting in a preserved, rebuilt, and thriving community.

Lincoln County, Ore. (Oct. 23, 2025)- On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 11:29 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus skateboarder crash on Highway 101, near milepost 121, in Lincoln County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a skateboarder, Joseph Wesley Tallman (35) of Depoe Bay, attempted to cross the highway from the eastbound shoulder and was struck by a northbound Mack commercial motor vehicle, operated by Marcus Daniel Harwood (35) of Veneta, who was unable to avoid the collision.

The skateboarder (Tallman) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Mack (Harwood) was uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln City Police Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Harney County, Ore. (Oct. 23, 2025)- On Monday, October 20, 2025, at 4:30 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to at two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 144, in Harney County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by James Joseph Hammeke (91) of Burns, entered the highway from Rattlesnake Road and was struck by a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Jaswinder Singh Sidhu (45) of Oregon City. The Freightliner struck the driver side door and front fender of the Chevrolet causing significant damage.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Hammeke) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Freightliner (Sidhu) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Burns Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

Union Ridge and South Ridge elementary schools are once again looking for community members who would be interested in participating in our fourth annual career fair for Ridgefield 4th graders! 

The career fair will take place on Thursday, February 5th, 2026 at the Ridgefield Administrative and Civic Center (RACC) gym at 510 Pioneer Street from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m.  
 

We are looking for community members to give presentations about one of the career clusters listed below. Volunteers will be presenting six 15-minute sessions with approximately 10 students at each.

Here’s what we’re asking from volunteers:

1. A 7-minute presentation on their career covering:

   1. What “a day in the life” looks like

   2. Education or training needed

   3. Your favorite aspects/least favorite aspects

   4. What you use daily from your K-12 education 

2. A 6-minute interactive activity 

   1. Activity that lets students explore some aspect of the career hands-on  

3. 2-minute closing remarks/time for questions and answers

The career clusters we are looking for volunteers in are: 

• Agriculture, food and natural resources

• Architecture & construction

• Arts, audio/visual technology & communications

• Business management & administration

• Education and training

• Finance

• Government & public administration

• Health science

• Hospitality & tourism

• Human services

• Information technology

• Law, public safety, corrections & security

• Manufacturing

• Marketing

• STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)

• Transportation, distribution and logistics

If you have any questions or are interested in being a presenter, please email Nick Maudlin at nick.maudlin@ridgefieldsd.org to sign up. We are really excited to provide this opportunity for students and are thrilled to include presenters from within the Ridgefield community! 

This Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

PORTLAND, Ore.— On Saturday, October 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in collaboration with nearly 4,000 law enforcement partners across the United States, will host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at locations across the country. DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

For sixteen years, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans safely dispose of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—to prevent drug misuse and abuse.

Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at nearly 4,500 drop-off locations nationwide.

What:              National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

When:              Saturday, October 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where:            18 collection sites in Oregon

“Take Back Day provides a safe and anonymous way to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Unused prescription medication in the home pose serious risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose. We encourage all community members to participate and help reduce the potential for abuse and addiction in our communities.”

“All too often, drug abuse starts with prescription pills in the family medicine cabinet,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers an easy way to rid your home of these unwanted and potentially dangerous medicines before they can harm your children or grandchildren. Drop off your unneeded medicine this Saturday and take a step to keep your family safe from drug harm.”

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 19.8 million pounds (10,000 tons) of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

For more information and to find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has reached a multi-state settlement with E Mortgage Capital, which is based in Irvine, Calif., resolving allegations of unlicensed lending activity and other violations.

Oregon joined Hawaii, Idaho, and Texas in the multi-state settlement agreement, which imposed fines totaling $669,000.

In their examinations, mortgage regulators determined E Mortgage allowed unlicensed mortgage loan originators (MLOs) in their states to originate and earn commissions on 50 different transactions. Idaho and Texas officials also claimed unlicensed loan processors performed functions that should have been prohibited in their states in over 125 instances.

Additionally, Oregon regulators determined that E Mortgage’s remote work-from-home plan lacked adequate inspections and insufficient supervision of MLOs. There were 27 instances in Oregon where E Mortgage engaged in a remote work-from-home plan that was insufficient to adequately inspect remote work locations. Participating states view this as having an inadequate supervision plan and supervision of MLOs.

Regulators also found E Mortgage, in the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, engaged in unlicensed activity by allowing unlicensed MLOs to conduct origination activity. E Mortgage paid these unlicensed MLOs commissions when the MLOs were not licensed to originate loans in the participating states. Each state’s number of violations were Hawaii (7), Idaho (16), Oregon (13), and Texas (14).

The participating regulators determined that E Mortgage failed to cooperate or respond to examiners’ request for information and refused to provide examiners access to its Loan Origination System.

The company agreed to cease mortgage originations coming via unlicensed loan officers and processing activity involving ineligible employees.

“Protecting Oregon consumers means ensuring mortgage companies play by the rules,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “When firms fail to supervise their employees or cooperate with examiners, we take action to safeguard consumers and the integrity of the lending system.”

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

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

Halloween is just around the corner. Many view Halloween as a time for fun and treats, costumes, and attending spooky parties. Due to the increased pedestrian traffic, especially in low light conditions, it is also time to use extra caution. According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween night compared to other nights of the year. Here are some safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Safety Council to make Halloween safer for everyone.

Children should:

• Use caution when Trick-or-Treating
  • Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
  • Know phone numbers for emergency phone calls.
  • Carry a note in their pocket with their name, address, and emergency contact.
  • Use flashlights, stay on sidewalks if available, and avoid crossing or walking through yards.
  • Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing the street.
  • Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks if available, and avoid crossing between parked cars.
  • Always look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
     
• Plan a safe costume
  • Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
  • Avoid wearing hats that could slide over their eyes.
  • Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes and avoid oversized shoes to prevent tripping.
  • Ensure costume weapons are flexible, not rigid or sharp, and are very clearly toys.

Adults should:

• Ensure safe activities for kids
  • Supervise children during trick-or-treating and during other activities.
  • Supervise children as they cross the street.
  • Establish a curfew for older children.
  • Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks. Place decorations away from doorways, landings, or walkways.
  • Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys to young children.
  • Inspect all candy before children eat it.
  • Consider taking advantage of community events where kids can wear costumes and trick-or-treat in one central place without the need to navigate city and neighborhood streets.

• Use extra caution on the road and in neighborhoods
  • Drive slowly.
  • Watch for children in the street and on medians.
  • Exit driveways carefully.
  • Have children get out of cars on the curbside, not the traffic side.
  • Avoid distracted driving or driving while tired.
  • Do not drive after using alcohol or other drugs.

Following these tips can help ensure this Halloween is a safe and fun holiday for everyone.

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

###

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for northwest Oregon will meet at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30 at the ODF Forest Grove District office, 801 Gales Creek Road. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division updates
• Operator of the Year decision
• Forest Practices Technical Guidance update
• Forest practices rulemaking: Post-disturbance rules, tethered logging
• Habitat Conservation Plan status
• Forest Resources Division Training Team summary
• Forest Practices Compliance Monitoring Program update

The public may attend in-person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted. 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 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state.

Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

Oregon and the Internal Revenue Service are once again recruiting people to assist in the free preparation of taxes as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

“Oregon needs more VITA sites and volunteers. For low- and moderate-income families, claiming the tax credits available to them can be a starting point on the path to stronger financial security. But too often those tax credits go unclaimed,” said Codi Trudell, Oregon’s Taxpayer Advocate. “The cost and complexity of filing a tax return is a hurdle for too many people. By volunteering to help them file their returns and claim their credits, Oregonians can make a difference for people in their local community.”

The IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Including free tax help offered by AARP, so far in 2025, free tax assistance has been made available to nearly 38,000 taxpayers at 108 sites across the state. That’s up from 104 sites and 33,000 taxpayers at this point in 2024. Every year, however, the sites are forced to turn away people who need assistance due to a shortage of volunteers.

In addition to the need for volunteers, the IRS is also seeking organizations to sponsor VITA and TCE clinics.

The VITA and TCE programs train volunteers to help low- to moderate-income families prepare their tax returns. Across the country, thousands of people volunteer each year and prepare millions of tax returns at thousands of tax sites nationwide.

Volunteers are assigned to work with a sponsoring organization, first to receive training and then to begin volunteering at a location in the community. Training is offered both online and in the classroom. Tax sites are generally open nights and weekends, and the hours are flexible.

Additional information is available on the IRS website. Interested persons can submit an inquiry now using the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up moving them one step closer to becoming a VITA or TCE tax volunteer and giving back to their community. The IRS will share information about those interested in volunteering with sponsoring organizations for follow-up contact.

Organizations with an interest in partnering with the IRS to sponsor or host a free tax preparation site in Oregon can also complete and submit the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up form.

To find a VITA site near them, Oregonians can use the IRS Site Locator tool or check the DOR’s Free Tax Help map with VITA sites marked in blue.

VITA sites at 15 locations in Oregon receive funding from the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program. Those interested in volunteering at one of these sites should contact the organizations below in December.

Beaverton, Eugene, Gresham, Portland: 

CASH Oregon

503-461-7388

volunteer@cashoregon.org

Bend, Redmond: 

Latino Community Association

541-382-4366

info@latinocommunityassociation.org

Bend, Corvallis, Eugene:

Oregon State University

541-737-3371

vita@oregonstate.edu

Coos Bay, Roseburg:

Moneywise Oregon

541-670-5054

dan@moneywiseoregon.org

Medford:

United Way Jackson County

541-864-5092

office@unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org

Ontario, Portland:

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization

 971-331-9811

ethz@irco.org">elizabethz@irco.org

Woodburn:

Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos

503-902-0367

biec@centrodspc.org">debbiec@centrodspc.org

- 30 -

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue is proud to announce the addition of Rescue 6, a new rescue unit that will begin service at Cherry Lane Station 6 on November 6, 2025. This addition expands the department’s emergency response capacity and enhances service to Hillsboro’s second-fastest-growing area, which continues to see a rising demand for emergency medical services.

Rescue 6 provides added flexibility within Hillsboro’s emergency response system, enabling the department to strategically deploy the right resources for each type of call. The rescue unit will respond to a wide range of emergency medical incidents, working seamlessly with existing fire and emergency medical services to provide comprehensive care to residents and visitors. This ensures that residents receive timely and efficient care while keeping fire engines available for fires and other complex emergencies.

“This is a strategic investment in our community’s safety,” said Fire Chief David Downey. “Rescue 6 enhances our ability to respond quickly to medical calls, improves coverage in a rapidly growing area, and helps ensure that all of our stations remain ready for major incidents.”

Rescue 6 will be staffed by firefighter-paramedics and equipped with advanced life support (ALS) tools and technology to deliver high-quality pre-hospital medical care. Its addition to Station 6 enhances response capacity for the surrounding neighborhoods and contributes to systemwide efficiency across Hillsboro Fire & Rescue’s service area.

“This new rescue unit reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and responsiveness,” Chief Downey added. “As Hillsboro grows, we continue to evolve—deploying our resources strategically so we can provide the best possible service to everyone in our community.”

Robby Hammond, City Manager for the City of Hillsboro, emphasized the importance of this investment: "As Hillsboro continues to grow, it's essential that our emergency services infrastructure keeps pace with our community's needs. Rescue 6 represents a proactive approach to public safety, ensuring that our residents and businesses have access to excellent emergency medical care as our city expands. This, in turn, results in better outcomes for our community when they need it most."

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue remains dedicated to protecting lives and property through excellence in emergency response, prevention, and community engagement.

Photos and B-roll Video Footage for Media Use: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rq8eSC34Ahyf1uW7qq5avI4dd5gcmOIO?usp=sharing

###

Tualatin, Ore. - Samaritan Health Services’ recent announcement that it plans to “affiliate” with Washington State-based MultiCare Health System leaves more questions than answers about what this means for the future of healthcare in Oregon.  

Samaritan Health is a locally run, regional health system serving communities throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley and Oregon Coast. State and federal regulators must take a hard look at this transaction to ensure it is in the best interest of those communities and will not result in cuts to services, layoffs, and higher costs. 

ONA will do everything in our power to ensure that any transaction centers the needs of patients and the nurses and healthcare professionals who provide their care. 

Oregon needs healthcare systems rooted in community, accountability, and compassion—not corporate consolidation. 

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

# # #

The Police Activities League of Southwest Washington (PAL of SWWA), in partnership with Cloth & Foster, is thrilled to host the first-ever PAL-O-Ween Trunk or Treat event on Thursday, October 23rd from 5:30–7:30 PM at 18405 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA. This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and promises a safe and festive Halloween celebration for youth and families across the community.

Unlike traditional Trunk or Treats, PAL-O-Ween will feature over 15 law enforcement vehicles from agencies including the Vancouver Police Department, Clark County Sheriff's Office, Washington State Patrol, and Ridgefield Police Department. Youth will have the opportunity to explore these vehicles up close while collecting candy and connecting with local officers in a positive, welcoming environment.

In addition to the impressive lineup of patrol cars, the event will include:

• Craft station
• Festive photo booth
• Community-hosted trunks handing out candy

This inaugural event was inspired by the tragic violence that occurred at Vancouver Mall last Halloween. In response, PAL is committed to providing a safe and joyful space for families to celebrate the season. With over 350 youth already RSVP’d, PAL-O-Ween is shaping up to be a vibrant and meaningful gathering for the community.

“We know many families are looking for a safe place to celebrate Halloween this year,” said Jesse Jimenez, Executive Director of PAL of SWWA. “PAL-O-Ween is our way of showing that law enforcement and the community can come together to create something positive, safe, and fun for our youth.”

Media are welcome to attend and cover this exciting event.

PAL of SWWA's mission is to foster and facilitate positive relationships between law enforcement and youth. 

It’s easy to overlook the small things that can make a big difference; a kind gesture, a simple smile, or even something as ordinary as a clean pair of socks. Most of us start our day by putting on socks without a second thought. But imagine if those socks were worn out, full of holes, or if you didn’t have any at all. For a school student, that small detail can have a big impact on comfort, hygiene, and dignity.

The Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) learned that the sock company Bombas had a program designed to assist those in need.  Upon learning of the needs, the response from Bombas was remarkable. They donated more than 450 pairs of brand-new socks to the department.

With this generous donation, BGPD’s School Resource Officer created a fitting initiative: BGPD SOCK – Strengthening Outreach, Community, and Kindness.

BGPD School Resource Officers work closely with students within the Battle Ground School District every day and they understand the challenges some students face. These new socks will be distributed to students in need, providing not just physical comfort, but also a sense of confidence and care.  Something as simple as having five new pairs of comfortable socks–one for each school day–can help a student feel valued, refreshed, and more able to focus in class.

The Battle Ground Police Department extends sincere gratitude to Bombas for their generosity in helping make a positive difference in the lives of Battle Ground students.  Their efforts to assist BGPD with reenforcing its community relationships and embody the department’s commitment to its motto of “Partners With The Community.”

Morrow County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of a branch bull elk near Heppner, Oregon. 

On Friday September 19^th, 2025, at approximately 7:30 am, individual(s) illegally harvested a bull elk on private ranch property, near the intersection of Forest Service Road 21 and Sunflower Flat Road, in Morrow County.  A majority of meat was taken from the scene, while some meat was also left behind or wasted. 

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number is SP25-410093.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

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

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Umatilla County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying individual(s) involved in the unlawful take of a branch bull elk near Hermiston, Oregon. 

On Friday September 5th, 2025, OSP F&W troopers responded to the report of an unlawfully taken 6x6 bull elk, in the Columbia Basin Unit, on private property adjacent to Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge. It is believed the elk was killed, and left at the scene, between September 4^th and 5^th, 2025. No meat was able to be salvaged from the animal.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference OSP case number SP25-395113.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

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

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging a Portland resident with damaging cameras affixed to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building on June 12, 2025.

Alistair Sidener, 20, made an initial appearance in federal court last Friday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Sidener was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Depredation of federal property in an amount exceeding $1,000 is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Since June 13, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged 37 defendants with offenses committed near ICE facilities, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

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

# # #

Linn County, Ore. (Oct. 22, 2025)- On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:40 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 234, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Joshua David Moore (42) of Springfield, lost control while slowing for traffic and laid down his motorcycle in the lane of travel. Another northbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Jan Allen Hicks Sr. (60) of Eugene, was unable to avoid a collision and struck the downed rider (Moore).

Moore was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

Hicks Sr. was reportedly uninjured during the incident.

The interstate was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Albany Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

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

Oct. 22, 2025 

Media Contact:  Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

Lincoln County’s first residential substance use disorder treatment facility opens 

Newport, Ore.—Samaritan Health Services has opened the new Samaritan Treatment & Recovery Services facility, the first substance use disorder (SUD) residential treatment center in Lincoln County and a critical step forward in expanding access to behavioral health services in the region.  

"This facility is a game-changer for a community that has needed expanded treatment capacity for nearly a decade," Governor Tina Kotek said. "Since 2016, local leaders have been calling for stronger support in addressing behavioral health needs in the area. Now, that call is being answered — and it will save lives. Let’s keep going." 

The new 16-bed inpatient and outpatient treatment center, located at 5840 NW Biggs Street in Newport was funded in part by a $2.95 million investment from Oregon Health Authority’s Behavioral Health Investments program.  

With the new facility, Samaritan Pacific Health Services plans to assess hundreds of individuals annually for substance use disorders, provide case management and recovery support, and help people secure stable housing. On-site staff will include a nurse, drug counselors, peer support specialists and care coordinators who connect patients with wrap-around services.  

"This project fills a long-standing gap in our region's behavioral health infrastructure," said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director at Oregon Health Authority (OHA)."It’s a transformative investment in recovery, stability and community health."

At the Oct. 20 ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by the Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, community members and project partners participated in guided tours of the facility. 

Aimee Thompson, Pacific Communities Health District board member and past chair and Dr. David Simmons, Medical Director, Samaritan & Recovery Services speak at the ceremony.

Here’s a compilation of video clips from the grand opening for media use.

“Health care transformation doesn’t happen in isolation,” said Samaritan Health Services President Marty Cahill.  “It takes people and organizations — public, private, philanthropic and governmental — working side by side, united by a shared goal to make care more accessible and more human. Every square foot of this facility tells a story of community partnership.”

Residents can get a referral from a doctor or may inquire for treatment on their own, though they must meet medical criteria. The facility will open for services on Oct. 27. 

Oct. 22, 2025

Contact:

Franny White, 971-349-9539, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov (media inquiries)

Committee staff .Affordability@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHPB.Affordability@oha.oregon.gov (meeting information or accommodation)

Committee on Health Care Affordability meets Oct. 28

What: A public meeting of the Committee on Health Care Affordability

When:  Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. 2 to 4 p.m.

Where: This is a virtual meeting via Zoom.

Join ZoomGov Meeting

Meeting ID: 161 107 3718

Passcode: 687992

Agenda:

• Welcome
• Creating a shared vision for affordability
• Criteria for developing policy recommendations
• Public Comment

Public comment will be heard at 3:45 p.m. Please submit any public comment in writing prior to the meeting at .Affordability@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHPB.Affordability@oha.oregon.gov.

For more information, please visit the committee’s website.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• CART (live captions)
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Melisa Otrugman at 503-689-5238, 711 TTY, ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Stayton, Ore. – Every Saturday over the last month, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) North Cascade District hosted Scouting America troops from Eugene, Oregon to Seattle, Washington and in between. The district helped 80 scouts earn their Wildland Fire Management merit badge, a new merit badge being tested this year with the hopes it will become an official merit badge next summer at the National Jamboree.

“The scouts learned that it’s more than putting out a fire,” said Scott West, ODF Molalla Unit Forester for the North Cascade District.

In the classes, scouts, ages 11-17, learned how to make their homes, camps, and communities more wildfire resilient and resistant while also understanding wildfire’s role in nature. They also learn about the history, prevention, science, tools, and equipment of wildland fire management. The new merit badge gives the scouts the opportunity to explore different career opportunities in wildland fire management.

“I wanted kids to see the larger picture when it comes to wildfire and learn what they can do in terms of that picture,” said West. “By the end of the course, we even had a few 17-year-olds interested in applying to be a wildland firefighter once they graduate.”

The investment in wildland firefighting’s future doesn’t just encompass this one month but years of work. Scott West not only facilitated the courses in ODF’s North Cascade District but also helped create the curriculum for the new merit badge with Scouting America, a process that began in 2018.

“When on an assignment with ODF Complex Incident Management Team 2 in 2017, I met Mike Huneke with the U.S. Forest Service out of Maryland. Mike is also a volunteer with Scouting America and chairs the National Conservation Committee. We discussed the need for a merit badge that focuses on wildland fire management and the impact a merit badge like this could have on our field’s future. So together we built out the curriculum, presented it to Scouting America and now get to see the finished product in action right here in Oregon,” West said.

Understanding and managing wildland fire is a complex undertaking, especially for young scouts, but their willingness to learn and explore the field of wildland fire management means that the future of the career is bright.

ASTORIA, OR — To address feedback received, the Department of Assessment and Taxation for Clatsop County is implementing a one-time exception to the Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) collection process to support a smooth transition under the newly adopted TLT Ordinance.

This exception applies only to bookings made prior to January 1, 2026, for stays occurring on or after January 1, 2026. Lodging providers will have an opportunity to submit a one-time additional filing prior to the rate increase, specifically for these affected bookings.

Please note:

• Rental records for these bookings will be required

• These rents will be excluded from future TLT filings

• Detailed instructions and the additional return form will be distributed in December, along with the 4th quarter filing information

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to ensure a smooth transition to the updated collection process.

Property owners, lodging operators, and intermediaries with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Clatsop County Assessment & Taxation Office. You can reach the office by email at roomtax@clatsopcounty.gov, by phone at 503-325-8522, or visit us online at clatsopcounty.gov.

###

Election Results

• Mark Hottowe was re-elected to serve as the representative for District 2.
• Darlene “De” Stickel was re-elected to serve another term representing District 6.
• Mel Netzhammer was elected to represent District 5 after his interim appointment in January 2025.

Runoff Election Process Explained

Meet the Elected Board Members

About the ESD 112 Board of Directors

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman made her first appearance in federal court yesterday after allegedly assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Lisa Miyamoto, 56, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on October 19, 2025, federal officers deployed outside the gates of the ICE facility to clear the vehicle entrance for vehicles to exit the facility. Miyamoto forcefully struck an officer with a wooden tambourine and was arrested by officers.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 36 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed near ICE facilities, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Miyamoto made her first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison. 

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

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Secondary groundwater source provided supplemental water supply during a dry summer

The Portland Water Bureau has returned to providing 100% Bull Run water to Portlanders. Since July 22nd, the Portland Water Bureau has been supplementing the Bull Run supply by blending our secondary water source, groundwater from the Columbia South Shore Well Field, with the Bull Run supply to meet customers’ needs through the dry summer.

It can take up to two weeks after a transition like this for customers to receive 100 percent Bull Run water at their taps, depending on the location.

Careful management of the groundwater system allowed us to provide clean, safe drinking water to the region despite this year’s unseasonably dry summer weather.  

“Keeping our water clean and safe during longer dry seasons means taking care of the systems that deliver it,” said Portland Water Bureau Director Quisha Light. “We’re investing in maintenance and improvements today so our community can count on reliable water no matter the weather.”

Water system investments matter  

Our ability to reliably provide clean, safe water for future generations depends on sustaining investments in our water system. Ratepayer funding makes it possible for the bureau to tap two sources of clean, reliable water to adapt to a changing environment.

Portland Water is planning a new filtration facility and pipelines to keep our water safe and abundant for the nearly one million people who depend on it today and for future generations.

“You fund this critical work every time you pay your water bill,” Light said. “Each payment is an investment in our community’s ability to maintain our resilient water system.”

Working for Water Around the Clock

It takes more than 600 highly skilled employees operating and maintaining $25 billion worth of infrastructure like pipes, pumps, tanks and reservoirs to get the water to your tap.

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

Access and accommodations

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

BEND, OR — The High Desert Museum’s original exhibition Sensing Sasquatch has won the 2025 Autry Public History Prize, which recognizes exceptional work that contributes to a broader public reflection on and appreciation of the North American West.

The prize was awarded to the High Desert Museum on October 17, 2025, at the annual Western History Association Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In remarks from the Autry Prize Committee, the exhibition was praised for its “originality of work and the collaboration of the project team.” The committee also applauded Sensing Sasquatch for its “major contribution to Public History and the field of the North American West.”

The Autry Public History Prize is awarded annually. The award consists of a $1,000 prize, made possible by the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles. Past winners of the prize range from museums to libraries to state historical centers.

Blending history, art and mixed media, Sensing Sasquatch explored the cultural significance of Sasquatch across Indigenous cultures in the High Desert. In pop culture today, Sasquatch, or Bigfoot, often appears on beer cans, stickers and billboards. Yet for some Native people of the Indigenous Plateau, Sasquatch represents a story that is more profound and spiritual. Open from March 2024 through January 2025, Sensing Sasquatch challenged visitors’ perceptions, encouraging them to reconsider the conventional depictions.

“We are so proud of the collaboration and dedication of the Museum team for their research and creative spirit in producing this unique and impactful exhibition,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We worked very closely with Indigenous partners and artists to make their voices the core of Sensing Sasquatch. We are honored to have the exhibition recognized by the Western History Association and the Autry Prize Committee.”

Advisor and scholar Phillip Cash Cash, Ph.D., (Nez Perce/Cayuse) and the Museum conducted research into the significance of Sasquatch to Indigenous peoples – from linguistic study to examining archival documents. The result was an exhibition that told a compelling and respectful story about the past, present and future of Sasquatch.

The Museum also commissioned five Indigenous artists to craft pieces reflecting their encounters with and perspectives on the enigmatic figure. Rocky LaRock (Salish), Charlene “Tilly” Moody (Warm Springs), Frank Buffalo Hyde (Nez Perce/Onondaga), HollyAnna CougarTracks De Coteau Littlebull (Yakama/Nez Perce/Cayuse/Cree) and Cash Cash each contributed unique artwork that sparked conversation, curiosity and wonder.

A car disappearing into a forest scene greeted visitors at the exhibition entrance. The car’s collection of stereotypical Sasquatch stickers was a contrast to the content inside the gallery, beginning with a digital language map that highlighted the diverse array of names used to refer to Sasquatch across the Indigenous Plateau.

Buffalo Hyde’s multimedia piece Enigma portrayed Sasquatch as an interdimensional being with the ability to traverse history, time and space. LaRock’s Shapeshifter mask evoked a large being emerging from the forest, and Moody’s Around Us Watching piece provided a glimpse into the forest in the shape of a Sasquatch.

Other artworks in the gallery were Cash Cash’s Sasquatch’s Rattle No. 1 and Sasquatch’s Rattle No. 2, which Sasquatch perhaps wields. In the center of the gallery stood CougarTracks DeCoteau Littlebull’s The Protector, a towering mixed media Sasquatch sculpture.

Visitors were also encouraged to use their senses as they explored the Spirit of the West Gallery. A scent station invited visitors to envision an encounter with Sasquatch through smell, and they could feel the buffalo hide used in Moody’s piece. Forest sounds filled the gallery, and the motion-activated sound from Buffalo Hyde’s Enigma delighted visitors of all ages with its deep, ground-shaking subwoofer.

Sensing Sasquatch was made possible by Visit Central Oregon Future Fund, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, Bigfoot Beverages, Bend Cultural Tourism Fund, Redmond Municipal Airport, Central Oregon Daily News, Bend Magazine, Brooks Resources Corporation, Old Mill District, and 100.7 The X, with support from Travel Oregon, Waypoint Hotel and Bend Pet Express.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

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New book uncovers the life and legacy of Father Tom Oddo, the groundbreaking priest who
championed LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Church

Vancouver, WA - The Clark County Historical Museum will host author Tyler Bieber for a
special presentation of his new book Against the Current: Father Tom Oddo and the New
American Catholic on Friday, November 14, 2025. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with the talk
beginning at 6 p.m. at the museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660.
Admission is free, though pre-registration is recommended through the museum website,
cchmuseum.org.

Father Thomas Oddo (1944 - 1989), widely known as “Father Tom,” was a pioneering figure
in LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church. In the years following the Stonewall
uprising and the Second Vatican Council, Father Tom forged new spaces for those seeking to
reconcile faith and identity. At just 29, he co-founded DignityUSA, becoming a key advocate
for civil rights within the Church. By 38, he was appointed President of the University of
Portland, where he was recognized as a rising star in higher education.

Though his life was tragically cut short at the age of 45, Father Tom’s influence continues to
shape conversations on faith, inclusion, and identity. Bieber’s Against the Current draws on
extensive interviews, personal archives, and previously unseen documents to tell the untold
story of Father Tom’s legacy. The book explores his encounters with celebrities, politicians,
and Pope John Paul II, while also delving into themes of hope, resilience, and the ongoing
struggle for equality.

This program will offer attendees an engaging look at a remarkable but often overlooked
leader whose story remains deeply relevant today.

About the Author

Tyler Bieber is a queer higher education professional based in Portland, Oregon. He has
served in leadership roles at Clark College, National University of Natural Medicine,
Linfield University School of Nursing, and Oregon School of Massage. He is currently the
Assistant Registrar at Willamette University’s Pacific Northwest College of Art. Bieber holds
a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Sciences from The Evergreen State College and an M.A. in Higher
Education and Student Affairs from the University of Portland.

Vancouver, Wash. – In 2025, Clark County’s Legacy Lands program celebrates its 40th anniversary. Since 1985, the program has protected, preserved and restored 5,500 acres of natural space. Protecting these valuable natural resources protects air, water and wildlife habitat, and provides recreational opportunities at some of the area’s most scenic locations. Popular sites that are part of the Legacy Lands portfolio include Fallen Leaf Lake, Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park and trail, Green Mountain, La Center Bottoms Wetlands, the Lacamas Heritage Trail, Lucia Falls, Mable Kerr Park, Moulton Falls, Salmon Creek Greenway, Schmid Family Park, areas on the shores of Vancouver Lake, and portions of Whipple Creek Regional Park.

Clark County Council has proclaimed October to be “Legacy Lands Month”. To celebrate the occasion, Clark County Public Works is hosting three community events.

• Oct. 22: Salmon Creek Greenway Trail guided walk. Participants will embark on a one-hour guided walk at one of the most beloved Legacy Lands locations, learning about the greenway’s history and efforts to restore water quality in Salmon Creek. Participants should meet at the west entrance to Salmon Creek Regional Park, located at 800 NE 117th St., at 5 p.m.
• Oct. 29: Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area Project Open House. Clark County and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe are partnering on a project to restore habitat along Salmon Creek and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at this former golf course, acquired through the Legacy Lands program. At the open house, project staff will share the final draft project plans and solicit feedback. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more about the open house on the project webpage.
• Nov. 8: Bird walk with Vancouver Audubon. Participants will join the Vancouver Audubon to view and learn about migrating birds, including sandhill cranes. The walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Additional details can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

More information about these events and the Legacy Lands program can be found on the Legacy Lands webpage.

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

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

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

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

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

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