Read this on our website: https://www.mcso.us/public-information/transit-police-arrest-man-following-deadly-fentanyl-overdose

Tillamook State Forest— “This place has made me the better person I am today. Now, I think about others and not myself. I take pride in what I do.  With the hands-on skills, training and certifications I learned here I’m set up to build a career,” said Michael Robinson, an adult-in-custody (AIC) at South Fork Forest Camp who is scheduled to be released in three weeks.

Robinson and other AICs helped design displays and were on hand to explain several of the key areas of their work to the more than 100 guests at the camp’s recent 75th anniversary celebration.

South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC) began in 1951 as a partnership between the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Oregon Department of Foresty (ODF) with one simple goal: to help replant forests after a series of devastating wildfires known as the Tillamook Burn wiped out most of the trees in what is now the Tillamook State Forest. That mission has greatly expanded over the last 75 years to the benefit of those who value the economic, recreation, and environmental opportunities a healthy forest provides.

“The SFFC has contributed over a million worker days to natural resource and wildland fire management projects over those 75 years, which is extremely important and impactful to all Oregonians,” said Kacey KC, Oregon’s State Forester. “They have planted more than 60 million seedlings, fought more than 1,000 wildfires, and constructed and maintained over 15 million feet of recreation trail, just to name a few of their accomplishments.”

KC emphasized the key role the 60 combined SFFC employees have at the camp that can accommodate up to 200 AICs.

“It’s the passion and partnership of our staff that makes this place so successful,” said KC.

DOC leadership stressed the importance and effectiveness of the partnership that makes SFFC stand out.

“This represents the very best of Oregon’s state government,” said Mike Reese, DOC director. “We get much better outcomes than if we worked alone. What happens here transforms lives. South Fork provides opportunity, redemption, hope and transformation.  This takes place because of the skills, hard work and effort of our combined staff. It takes courage to come work out here and you have my heartfelt thanks.”

It also takes courage to share the experience as an AIC at the camp but three, now ODF employees, did that at the anniversary celebration.

“South Fork Forest Camp changed my life,” said Jesse Lieble. “It made me excited to go out and work.”

 Lieble is a wildland firefighter with a Type 1 qualification. He is working on his Engine Boss qualification—a high demand and important wildfire position for ODF. 

“After what South Fork did for me, I hope it goes for another 75 years,” said Lieble.

The natural setting of the camp made a big first impression on Calen Gay now an ODF heavy equipment dispatcher.

“When I first stepped off the bus I said: ‘Whoa, what grand mountains are around this place!’ I loved the natural environment,” said Gay. 

That first year he went through wildland firefighter training as nearly all the AICs at camp do.

“We became family after the training and being on fires—children of the flame was our catch phrase,” said Gay. “The one experience I’ll never forget is going to a fire and seeing all the signs from the local community thanking us for being there and caring about our wellbeing. To them we were firefighters not AICs. That helped inspire me to make a career in wildland firefighting.”

Mark Mayse, an ODF wildland firefighting engine boss, credits his SFFC experience for the drastic change in his life.

“The hard work and wisdom I gained here has really paid off,” said Mayse. “I made some bad decisions and tore myself down. But now, everyday keeps getting better. I’m so thankful ODF took a chance on me and hired me. Because they gave me that chance, my goal is to never let them down.”

For the ODF staff at SFFC the work can be hard, but the results are rewarding since it combines two career priorities they care most about.

“We are rebuilding forests and rebuilding lives,” said Aaron Auble, ODF’s camp manager. “We teach and demonstrate to the AICs that work matters, the pride behind that work matters. Sure, there are hard days and hard challenges but when given real responsibilities we can all rise above those challenges.”

For more on SFFC see: https://www.oregon.gov

Lorena Trickey, National Rodeo Hall of Fame

November 15th, 3 to 5 P.M.

Final days to explore local history before the winter sets in!

The Crown Point Country Museum is officially closing for the season on Sunday, November 29th at 4 pm.  We are located at 36901 E. Historic Columbia River Hwy., Corbett, OR.  Just 4 minutes from Vista House!

Don't miss your last chance of the year to step back in time, explore our latest exhibits, and discover the rich heritage of our community. Whether you are bringing family, hosting out-of-town guests, or looking for a quiet weekend afternoon outing, now is the time to visit.

• November Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM

• Closing Date: Sunday, November 29th

• Admission: Free (donations gratefully accepted)

Stop by this week to support local history before the doors close until spring!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power encourages customers to prepare for possible weather-related outages ahead of November storm      
 

PORTLAND, OR (Nov. 12, 2025) – Pacific Power is monitoring an approaching storm that could impact customers in parts of Oregon and California overnight. The weather forecast indicates the potential for strong winds and rain beginning Thursday night into Friday afternoon, which could increase the potential for power outages.   

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

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages. State and local emergency management organizations also recommend having an emergency plan and to be prepared for up to 72 hours without essential services.  

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

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.  

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

• Restock your outage kit. 

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

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

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

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for outage and restoration updates.  

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

If you observe a downed line, call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088. 

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About Pacific Power

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

Portland, OR (November 12, 2026) – Point West Credit Union today announced a planned leadership transition that will carry the credit union into its next chapter while continuing the mission and community commitment that have long defined Point West.

Beginning January 1, 2027, CEO Amy Nelson and Chief Innovation Officer Steve Pagenstecher will serve as Co-CEOs. The two will lead Point West together until Amy Nelson’s retirement on January 31, 2028, when Steve Pagenstecher will transition to CEO.

The extended transition provides more than a year for the two seasoned leaders to work side by side, ensuring continuity for Point West’s members, employees and community partners.

This announcement reflects a deliberate succession planning process led by Point West’s Board of Directors, including the decision to use a Co-CEO model during the transition and Steve Pagenstecher’s selection as Amy Nelson’s successor.

“Succession planning is one of the Board’s most important governance responsibilities, and our decision to adopt a Co-CEO model reflects a thoughtful, deliberate approach to leadership continuity and our confidence in Steve Pagenstecher as a leader and Point West’s next CEO,” said Board Chair Oscar Porras.

“This is an exciting new chapter for our cooperative. We have plenty of work ahead of us, and I’m grateful we’ll have the time to make this transition together,” said Amy Nelson. “Point West means so much to me because of the people who make it what it is: our members, our Board and Supervisory Committee, our employees, and our community and industry partners who believe in our North Star, that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a brighter financial future.”

After leading Point West through periods of extraordinary change, including economic uncertainty, the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy Nelson said the decision to retire was deeply personal.

“I’ve spent almost 20 years as a collaborator and steward at Point West and as an ally to a community I love. Today, we are a thriving credit union with a caring, talented team, a strong financial foundation and a vibrant mission. That makes this the right time for a thoughtful and intentional transition, one that keeps the values and positive impact we’ve worked so hard to build moving forward. The time has also come for me to spend more time with my family. I’m forever grateful for their love, support and sacrifice, which have been foundational to my 30-year credit union career.”

For Steve Pagenstecher, the transition is a natural continuation of 13 years of leadership at Point West and over 20 years of experience in financial services. Throughout his time with the credit union, Steve Pagenstecher has helped shape the organization, its direction and its commitment to the members and communities it serves.

“Steve isn’t stepping into Point West’s future from the outside. He’s been helping build it alongside us for more than a decade,” said Amy Nelson. “He knows our members, our people and our mission. He understands where we’ve been, where we’re going and why the work we do matters. I couldn’t feel more confident about what’s ahead.”

“This next chapter isn’t about changing who Point West is,” said Steve Pagenstecher. “It’s about building on everything we’ve created together and continuing to find new ways to serve our members and our communities. For more than a decade, I’ve had the privilege of serving the Point West community, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust Amy, our Board and our team have placed in me.”

Point West has successfully used a shared leadership model before. During the Great Recession, Co-CEO leadership helped the credit union navigate one of the most challenging periods in its history and emerge stronger. That experience demonstrated the value of collaboration and continuity during important moments of change.

“Amy’s leadership has helped shape Point West into the organization it is today, and the Board is very proud of what she has given to our members, employees and community,” said Oscar Porras. “Having Amy and Steve lead together through 2027 gives Point West the benefit of two experienced leaders who know this organization deeply and share a commitment to its mission. We believe that continuity positions Point West well for the future.”

For Point West’s members, employees and community partners, this transition represents continuity in both leadership and purpose. Point West will continue moving forward with the same commitment to its members, financial inclusion and the communities it serves.

About Point West Credit Union

Point West Credit Union is 100% not-for-profit, member-owned and headquartered in Portland, Oregon. With a bilingual staff ready to help its members achieve financial empowerment, Point West works with its community partners to bring inclusion and equity to the underserved and needed capital to local microenterprise businesses—all with an unwavering commitment to its members and cooperative development. Find out more and join Point West today at https://www.pointwestcu.com/.

Vancouver, Wash. – This year, many residents are concerned about the cost of their holiday meals. Clark County Solid Waste and Recycling offers resources to help residents avoid throwing away food and wasting money.

The EPA estimates that reducing food waste could save a family of four nearly $3,000 annually, about $728 per person. On average, each Clark County household throws away more than 400 pounds of edible food each year.

Tossing food in the garbage produces methane in landfills, a greenhouse gas at least 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Landfilling food and other biological waste keeps the nutrients it contains from returning to the soil to support productive farmland and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers.

Residents can reduce food waste this holiday season by taking some simple steps as they plan for and clean up after a holiday meal. 

• Shopping: Food waste prevention starts with not buying more than is needed or can be eaten before it spoils. Those planning holiday meals should review what they already have, use a tool like the “Guest-imator” to estimate food quantities needed and avoid over-buying. Buying more than what’s needed can also be avoided by making a grocery list and buying only what's on it.
• Storage: Properly storing groceries can keep food from spoiling before it is eaten. Dry goods should be stored in labeled, airtight containers. Onions and apples should be stored separately from other foods, as they emit a gas that can make other foods spoil faster. Local and in-season produce tends to last longer before spoiling because it requires less time for transport.
• Leftovers: Holiday meal guests should be sent home with leftovers in reusable containers. Using leftovers creatively can help ensure they are eaten before they spoil. Examples include using mashed potatoes to make shepherd’s pie, topping oatmeal with cranberry sauce, and boiling bones to create nutrient-rich broths. To prevent foodborne illness, leftovers should be eaten within three to four days or frozen in airtight containers to use later.
• Composting: Food scraps can be composted instead of tossed in the garbage. In Clark County, composting options for residents without backyard composting systems include:
  • Composting at the curb: Waste Connections customers in the cities of Vancouver and Ridgefield who subscribe to the organics service can dispose of food scraps in their organics carts.
  • Food scrap drop-off: All residents can drop off food waste at a We Compost Community Hub location for composting. The service is free and available at locations throughout Clark County. Locations can be found on the We Compost Community Hub webpage. 

More food waste prevention tips and resources are available on the Clark County Green Neighbors webpage, and on the county’s YouTube channel. 

Solid Waste and Recycling is a program of Clark County Public Works. 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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Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
NOVEMBER 12, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OPENS REGISTRATION FOR THE 2027 NATIONAL CIVICS BEE®

Middle school students invited to share ideas for strengthening their communities through civic engagement and in regional competition.

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is now accepting essay submissions for the 2027 National Civics Bee®, inviting Southwest Washington middle school students to put their civic knowledge and community problem-solving skills to the test. Organized in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and presented locally by OnPoint Community Credit Union, the educational competition empowers young people to explore American democracy, develop their understanding of civics and discover how they can make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Students in grades 6–8 are encouraged to participate in the first round by submitting a 500–750-word essay identifying an opportunity or challenge in their community and proposing solutions. The prompt encourages students to think critically about local issues, share innovative ideas and recognize their potential as future civic leaders.

Essay submissions are due Tuesday, February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Students, parents and educators can access the essay prompt and submission guidelines at VancouverUSA.com/Civics-Bee.

“Civic engagement begins when young people realize their voices matter and their ideas can make a difference,” said Janet Kenefsky, chief operating officer of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “The Civics Bee gives students an opportunity to explore the issues affecting their communities, think critically about solutions and build the confidence to become engaged citizens. We are excited to see the creativity and thoughtful perspectives Southwest Washington students bring to this year’s competition.”

A panel of local business and community leaders will evaluate the essays, selecting 20 students to advance to the final round: a live civics quiz competition in spring 2027. The event will challenge participants’ knowledge of American government, history and civic principles in an engaging, interactive format.

The top three finalists from the local competition will advance to the state-level Civics Bee, where they will compete for additional recognition and opportunities. Local winners will also receive cash prizes: $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for third place.

The Southwest Washington Civics Bee is presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union, which was founded by teachers in 1932. Through its continued support of students, educators and financial wellness, OnPoint creates opportunities for young people to develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive.

“We’re proud to support the Southwest Washington Civics Bee as a reflection of our commitment to building strong communities and encouraging the next generation of leaders,” said Amy Reeves, SVP/SW Washington Regional Manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “By working alongside organizations that promote civic education, we help create opportunities that empower students and contribute to the long-term success of the communities we serve.”

Additional support for the 2027 competition is provided by The Columbian, AAA Washington, and Five Star Auto Body.

For essay prompts, submission guidelines, competition rules, and resources for teachers and parents, visit VancouverUSA.com/Civics-Bee.

Business and community leaders interested in sponsoring the program are encouraged to contact the Greater Vancouver Chamber at tnerships@VancouverUSA.com" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank">Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com.

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About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local middle school students participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in our local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top three students from each local competition will advance to the state competition. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this competition was launched to tackle the lack of knowledge about history and civics among middle school students, exposed by new federal data on the Nation's Report Card. In 2022, the average civics score at eighth grade decreased by 2 points compared to 2018.

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.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 671,000 members and with assets of $9.49 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 33 Oregon counties (Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com.

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MEDIA ASSETS: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OoWB8D9x35veyO9AeldI2MC-aMKmOSEZ?usp=sharing

VISOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

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

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

How do I use VISOR?

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

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

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

How do I register with VISOR?

You will need to provide:

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

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

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

Important VISOR Facts

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

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

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

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Featuring 21 original paintings, Creating a Masterpiece examines the power of art to shape the public’s understanding of Crater Lake — and the stories that were left out.

Download: Press Images & Captions

Portland, OR — Long before Crater Lake became one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks, its impossibly blue waters and dramatic volcanic landscape captured the imaginations of a handful of artists. Their paintings brought the lake’s extraordinary beauty to audiences across the country, helped build support for its preservation, and played a surprising role in establishing it as a national park.

Opening November 20, 2026, at the Oregon Historical Society (OHS), Creating a Masterpiece: Artists and the Origins of Crater Lake National Park explores how artists transformed a relatively little-known Oregon landscape into a national fascination. Featuring 21 original paintings — many of which have never been displayed together — alongside historical photographs, correspondence, illustrations, and other objects, the exhibition examines the intersection of art, science, conservation, and Indigenous history.

As Crater Lake National Park approaches its 125th anniversary in 2027, the exhibition offers a closer look at the artists whose work helped shape the park’s story. During the late nineteenth century, relatively few Euro-Americans had seen Crater Lake in person. While written descriptions, black-and-white photographs, and illustrations circulated, it was painters who first brought the lake’s vivid colors to life for audiences far beyond Oregon.

“The goal of Creating a Masterpiece is not to present you with the familiar story of how Crater Lake National Park came to be, but to offer an unknown version of the park’s origins that has been literally hiding in plain sight,” said historian and exhibition co-curator Peter Boag.

Artists including James Everett Stuart, Grace Russell Fountain, Mabel Russell, and William Samuel Parrott helped popularize Crater Lake through their paintings and exhibitions. Their work also became an important tool in the campaign to establish a national park. In 1902, as Congress debated the creation of Crater Lake National Park, one of Oregon artist Grace Russell Fountain’s paintings was displayed in the U.S. Capitol, giving lawmakers a vivid impression of the landscape they were being asked to protect. That same year, Crater Lake became the nation’s fifth national park and Oregon’s only national park.

But the story of Crater Lake extends far beyond its recognition by newcomers. The lake is located on the ancestral lands of the Klamath Tribes, who have known this sacred place as giiwas for thousands of years. Klamath and Modoc people witnessed the volcanic eruption and collapse that formed the landscape, sharing through oral tradition their experiences and enduring cultural and spiritual relationships with the region.

The exhibition also considers how western landscape paintings helped shape — and limit — public understanding of this place. While artists frequently included Native people in their depictions of those landscapes, they largely excluded Indigenous presence from their paintings of Crater Lake. These images presented the area around Crater Lake as an untouched wilderness, obscuring the people who had known, lived with, and cared for it long before the arrival of white settlers.

“At a time when verbal descriptions, however vibrant, and black-and-white photographs, however amazing, increasingly circulated in newspapers, books, and government reports, they could not capture the colorful beauty that one needs to see to believe,” said Boag. “It was left to painters of landscape to perform this role. But like writers, illustrators, and photographers, artists offer a view of Crater Lake very much shaped by the times in which they lived.”

Through the paintings and stories on view, Creating a Masterpiece invites visitors to look beyond the familiar images of Crater Lake and consider how art influences what we see, what we value, and whose stories become part of our shared history.

In addition to the exhibition, a special issue of OHS’s peer-reviewed, public history journal, the Oregon Historical Quarterly (OHQ), is dedicated to this history. “Crater Lake and Artistic Imagination,” predominantly written by Boag, provides an even deeper reflection on how artists’ canvases influenced the creation of Oregon’s only national park at the site in 1902. Additional essays by Angie Morrill, an enrolled citizen of the Klamath Tribes, Michael Childers, and Lisa Gadinas offer perspectives on the enduring cultural significance of giiwas, the complexities of interpreting western history, and the artistic traditions that influenced generations of Northwest painters. The Fall 2026 issue of OHQ is available to purchase through the OHS Museum Store and is a benefit of OHS membership.

Creating a Masterpiece: Artists and the Origins of Crater Lake National Park will be on view at the Oregon Historical Society, 1200 SW Park Avenue in Portland, from November 20, 2026, through January 9, 2028. OHS is open Monday through Saturday, 10am–5pm, and Sunday, 12pm–5pm. Admission is free for OHS members, Multnomah County residents, and youth 17 and under. Learn more and plan your visit at ohs.org/craterlake.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, November 16, 6:00 pm, at Woodland Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. You can view the agenda and meeting materials at https://www.fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/ 

Interest forms due by Dec. 16

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting interest forms to fill three volunteer positions on the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee.

The Local Government Grant Program is funded by the Oregon Lottery and currently awards about $15 million annually to outdoor park and recreation projects throughout the state. Eligible applicants to the program are cities, counties, parks and recreation districts, port districts and metropolitan service districts.

OPRD is seeking to fill the following roles:

• A member representing cities with a population over 15,000. Candidates for the position representing cities must be employed by a city or be professionally associated with a city.
• A member representing the public at large. Public at large positions may be held by a recreation professional or anyone with an interest or background in outdoor recreation.

A member representing park and recreation districts, port districts, or metropolitan service districts. Candidates for the position representing districts must be employed by a district or be professionally associated with a district.

Interested applicants should submit a Committee Interest Form by Dec. 16, 2026, if possible.

A list of existing advisory committee members and additional information is available on the grant website.
 

Advisory committee member responsibilities

The main function of the committee is to read, assess, and score approximately 35-45 grant applications submitted to the Local Government Grant Program and attend a three-day grant application presentation meeting which will be held virtually via Zoom.

Committee members serve four-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term. If travel is involved, OPRD will reimburse all travel, meals and lodging expenses associated with committee meetings.

About the advisory committee

Advisory committee members represent the following categories:

• Counties east and west of the Cascade Range.
• Cities under 15,000 people.
• Cities over 15,000 people.
• Park and recreation districts, metropolitan service districts, or port districts.
• People with disabilities.
• Three members of the public including at least one person who represents a historically underrepresented community.

OPRD is committed to ensuring that all committees represent the growing age, ethnic and gender diversity of the state. New committee members will be appointed by the OPRD director.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jennifer Dimsho, LGGP Program Coordinator, at .dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov">jennifer.dimsho@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-951-1317.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission is seeking applicants to fill a vacant position on the Charter Review Commission. The seat is in councilor district 3, position 1. Applicants must be registered voters currently residing in councilor district 3.

The unexpired term begins immediately upon appointment and ends Dec. 31, 2027, at the latest.

District 3 is primarily located in the urban area of Clark County east of Interstate 205 stretching from the Columbia River generally north to Northeast 99^th Street.

Registered voters can learn what district they reside in at www.VoteWA.gov or by contacting the Elections Office at Elections@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.2345.

The commission meets from 5-7 pm on Wednesdays. Meetings are held in person on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. and hybrid via WebEx.

The Charter Review Commission is tasked with reviewing the county’s home rule charter and potentially making recommendations for amendments.

The 15 commission members were elected in the November 2025 general election; three commissioners for each of the five county councilor districts.

Anyone interested in volunteering should send a letter of interest, resume, biographical statement of 100 words or less allocated between the four section headings below and a general statement limited to 200 words or less as would be required for the Local Voters’ Pamphlet. Section headings are not included in the word count. 

•          Elected Experience or Legal/Judicial Experience

•          Professional/Work Experience

•          Education

•          Community Service

Application materials should be sent to Michelle Pfenning, Council Administrative Assistant, at Michelle.Pfenning@clark.wa.gov.  Materials also may be mailed to P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000.

Application deadline is 5 pm Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2026. The Charter Review Commission will discuss applicant appointments at its Thursday, Dec. 3, meeting and a possible special meeting on Friday, Dec. 4. Applicants should be available during the Dec. 3 and 4, meetings to provide a two-minute statement and answer questions from the Commission. 

More information on the Charter Review Commission can be found on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/charter/charter-review-commission-2026-2027.

Small actions now can help customers stay safe and informed when winter weather causes power outages

PORTLAND, Ore. — Winter storms can bring strong winds, snow and ice that damage trees and power lines and cause outages. Portland General Electric is preparing its system for severe weather and encouraging customers to take a few simple steps now to help keep themselves, their families and their neighbors safe if the power goes out.

WHAT: Media availability - PGE spokesperson will discuss how PGE prepares year-round for inclement weather and how customers can prepare.

WHEN: Thursday, November 12, 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: PGE Beaverton Operations Center, 2213 SW 153rd Drive, Beaverton, OR 97003

PGE works year-round to keep power flowing and reduce the impact of storms. Crews trim trees near power lines, incorporate weather forecasts into operational planning and monitor changing conditions using tools including weather stations and AI-powered cameras.

Simple steps customers can take now

Being ready doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money or stocking up on expensive supplies. Knowing who to call, where to get information and assistance, and how you will stay safe during an outage can make a meaningful difference when severe weather arrives.

• Make a plan. Think through what your household will do if the power is out for an extended period. A good emergency plan doesn’t have to cost money or take up much space.
• Check-in with family and friends. Connect with neighbors, friends or family and agree to check on one another during an outage, especially people who are older, have a disability or rely on medical equipment.
• Know where to get help. Identify nearby food pantries, warming center and community organizations that may be available during severe weather. Call 211 or visit 211info.org for utility assistance and other local resources.
• Plan for medical needs. If someone in your household depends on electricity for medical equipment, talk with their health care provider about a backup plan.
• Keep important phone numbers handy. Write them down in case your cell phone battery runs low.
• Know how to open your garage door manually if you have an electric garage door opener.

Build an outage kit over time

An emergency kit doesn’t have to be expensive or assembled all at once. Start with items you already have and add supplies as you can. Even a small bag or box can help. Consider including:

• Flashlights or headlamps
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• A car charger or backup power source for phones and other devices
• A 72-hour supply of ready-to-eat food and water
• Required medications
• Extra blankets
• Water for people and pets

Customers should also understand safe cooking, heating and lighting practices during an outage, particularly when using generators. More information about generator use and other precautions is available at www.portlandgeneral.com/safety. Additional winter preparedness tips are available at www.portlandgeneral.com/beprepared.

What to do if the power goes out

PGE provides several ways for customers to report an outage and get updates:

• Text updates: Make sure PGE has your current contact information so you can receive outage information by text. Outage texts are currently available for residential and small business customers with fewer than six accounts.
• Online: Visit portlandgeneral.com/outage to report an outage and view PGE’s outage map for real-time information.
• PGE app: Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Links are also available at portlandgeneral.com/app.
• Phone: Call 503-464-7777 or 800-544-1795 to report an outage or downed power line through PGE’s automated system. Customers can also request a call when power is restored.

Downed power line safety information

If you see a downed power line, stay far away and never touch it or anything it's touching, such as a fence, a puddle or a vehicle. Always assume the line is live and extremely dangerous. It doesn't have to spark or sizzle to be live, so stay at least 50 feet back (that's a little longer than a city bus). Call 911 first, then report it to PGE at 503-464-7777.

More outdoor safety information is available at https://portlandgeneral.com/outages-safety/safety/outdoor-safety

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver invites the community to support Korey's Joy Drive with donations of toys and warm clothing for neighbors in need now through Dec. 9.

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

“Since establishing Korey’s Joy Drive, we’ve collected more than 21,000 items to support families in need during the holidays,” said Jen Thomas with the City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. “Thanks to the generosity of our community and local business partners, we’re able to support seven local charities.”

City employees will collect new, unwrapped toys, gift cards, and new winter coats, gloves, socks, and hats for youth, teens, and adults. The City will deliver donations to local nonprofits, including Children's Center, Fosterful, Open House Ministries, Randall Children's Hospital at Legacy Emanuel, Sea Mar Parent-Child Assistance Program, Share of Vancouver, and YWCA Clark County.

Community members can contribute at public drop-off sites.

• Allen’s Tranquility Therapeutic Massage, 12503 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd., Suite 215A
• The Al Angelo Company, 400 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Suite 500
• Double Jump Video Games, 204 S.E. Park Plaza Drive, Suite 113
• Edward Jones–Greg Hiatt, 5512 N.E. 109th Court, Suite D
• Firstenburg Community Center, 700 N.E. 136th Ave.
• Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar, 205 E. 39th St.
• Marshall/Luepke Community Center, 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.
• Pacific Northwest Pet ER & Specialty Center, 815 S.E. 160th Ave.
• Toasted S'more Bar, 1813 Main St.
• Vancouver City Hall, 415 W. 6th St.
• Vancouver Fire Department Station 5, 7110 N.E. 63rd St.
• Vancouver Operations Center front desk, 4711 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.
• Vancouver Police East Precinct, 520 S.E. 155th Ave.
• Vancouver Police West Precinct, 2800 N.E. Stapleton Road
• Vancouver Tennis Center, 5300 E. 18th St.
• Vancouver Utilities front desk, 2323 General Anderson Road
• West Vancouver Dental, 117 E. 39th St.
• Windermere Northwest Living–Brian Ruffalo, 1401 S.E. 164th Ave, Suite 190
• Yoder Chiropractic Center, 2100 S.E. 164th Ave., Suite 102

Donors may contribute to Korey’s Joy Drive online using the Amazon Wish List. Choose from a list of selected items or pick your own to ship directly to the Joy Drive. 

Businesses interested in hosting a collection site or donating can contact Jen Thomas at 360-487-7019 or jen.thomas@cityofvancouver.us. Learn more about Korey’s Joy Drive.

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SALEM, Ore. - Oregon National Guard members joined veterans, students and community members at Veterans Day events across the state Nov. 10 and 11, 2026, taking part in ceremonies, parades and school programs in Albany, Salem, Echo and Beaverton.

In Albany, Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon, gave remarks at the 75th Annual Veteran of the Year Banquet on Nov. 10, where Anthony Tangermann, a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, was recognized as the 2026 Veteran of the Year. On Veterans Day, Soldiers with Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, fired a howitzer salute during the morning memorial service at the Linn County Veterans Memorial. Gronewold, a color guard and the 234th Army Band then took part in the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade through downtown Albany.

In Salem, Oregon Air National Guard F-15EX fighter jets from the 142nd Wing flew over the Oregon State Capitol at 11:11 a.m. to open the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Day Program. Brig. Gen. Russell W. Gibson, Assistant Adjutant General, Oregon, attended the program.

In Echo, Guard members joined a parade led by students from kindergarten through high school, followed by an afternoon assembly where Maj. Taylor Frye, an Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook pilot, addressed students and staff. In Beaverton, Maj. Ian Beaty of the Oregon Army National Guard delivered opening remarks and Lt. Col. Heather Bashor of the Oregon Air National Guard spoke at a Veterans Day observance hosted by American Legion Post 124.

Oregon National Guard members serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining civilian careers. They stand ready to respond to state emergencies such as wildfires and floods, while also training to defend the nation when called to federal service. Guard members live and work in the same communities they serve, creating a unique connection between military service and local communities.

Released Photos:

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Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Taylor Frye, a CH-47 Chinook pilot assigned to AASF in Pendleton, Oregon, addresses the Veterans Day assembly at the Echo School Gym on Nov. 11, 2026. Over the past 15 years, students and staff have dedicated Veterans Day to in-class activities that highlight military service and honor veterans in the community. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

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Members of the Oregon National Guard took part in Veterans Day activities in Echo, Oregon, including a parade led by students from Kindergarten through High School, followed by an afternoon assembly on Nov. 11, 2026. Over the past 15 years, students and staff have dedicated Veterans Day to in-class activities that highlight military service and honor veterans in the community. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

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Members of the Oregon National Guard took part in Veterans Day activities in Echo, Oregon, including a parade led by students from Kindergarten through High School, followed by an afternoon assembly on Nov. 11, 2026. Over the past 15 years, students and staff have dedicated Veterans Day to in-class activities that highlight military service and honor veterans in the community. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

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Members of the Oregon National Guard took part in Veterans Day activities in Echo, Oregon, including a parade led by students from Kindergarten through High School, followed by an afternoon assembly on Nov. 11, 2026. Over the past 15 years, students and staff have dedicated Veterans Day to in-class activities that highlight military service and honor veterans in the community. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

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Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General, Oregon gives remarks during the 75th Annual Veteran of the Year Banquet held at the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA, November 10, 2026, in Albany, Oregon. Anthony Tangermann, a U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran and Treasurer of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 585 was recognized as the 2026 Veteran of the Year at the banquet. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

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Lebanon High School JROTC leadership, Lt. Col. Thomas Clifford (L) and Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Christian Watts (R), stand alongside Col. (Ret.) Kevin Dial ahead of the start of the 2026 Veteran of the Year Banquet, held at the Mid-Valley Family YMCA, in Albany, Oregon, on November 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Clifford was a nominee for this year's Veteran of the Year. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

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Governor Tina Kotek speaks with Brig. Gen. Russ Gibson and his spouse Cindy Gibson ahead of the start of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Day Program at the Oregon State Capitol, November 11, 2026, in Salem, Oregon.  (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

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Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, Director, Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs, stands alongside Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General, Oregon and his spouse, Rebecca Gronewold, as a wreath honoring POW/MIA service members is laid by Robert Gore at the 75th Annual Veteran of the Year Banquet held at the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA, November 10, 2026, in Albany, Oregon. Both Dr. Daniels and Brig. Gen. Gronewold gave remarks during the banquet honoring military service. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

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American Legion Post 124 hosted a Veterans Day observance at SW Bible Church in Beaverton, Oregon, Nov. 11, 2026. Guest speakers included Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty, a U.S. Army veteran; Ashley Taylor, commander of VFW Post 4362, a U.S. Army veteran; and Lt. Col. Heather Bashor of the Oregon Air National Guard. Maj. Ian Beaty, Oregon Army National Guard, delivered the opening remarks and also spoke on behalf of a local WW2 U.S. Marine Corp Veteran, John Samuelson, who was unable to participate in the ceremony. (Oregon National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) 

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Oregon Air National Guard F-15EX Fighter Jets from the 142nd Wing, based out of the Portland Air National Guard Base fly over the Oregon State Capitol building at 11:11 to kick off the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Day Program at the Oregon State Capitol, November 11, 2026, in Salem, Oregon.  (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

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Sgt. 1st Class David Nelson, with Bravo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, signals his crews to fire during a howitzer salute at the Veterans Day memorial service at the Linn County Veterans Memorial in Timber Linn Memorial Park, Albany, Ore., Nov. 11, 2026. The salute honored the nation’s veterans ahead of the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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An Oregon Army National Guard color guard leads Guard vehicles along the route of the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade in Albany, Ore., Nov. 11, 2026. Oregon National Guard members serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers, and they live and work in the same communities they serve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon, waves to spectators from an Oregon Army National Guard vehicle during the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade in Albany, Ore., Nov. 11, 2026. The Oregon National Guard joined veterans and community members for the parade, which followed a morning memorial service and howitzer salute. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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The drum major of the Oregon Army National Guard’s 234th Army Band leads the band past spectators during the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade in Albany, Ore., Nov. 11, 2026. Oregon National Guard members serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers, and they live and work in the same communities they serve. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Soldiers with the Oregon Army National Guard’s 234th Army Band march through downtown Albany, Ore., during the 75th Annual Linn County Veterans Day Parade, Nov. 11, 2026. The parade followed a morning memorial service and howitzer salute at the Linn County Veterans Memorial in Timber Linn Memorial Park. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at about 9:30 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to multiple reports of a shooting at a 76 Gas Station located at 5065 SW Scholls Ferry Road, along with officers from the Beaverton and Tigard Police Departments. Arriving deputies learned the parties involved left in vehicles and contained the crime scene.

While deputies were investigating, another caller reported they were transporting a shooting victim to a local hospital. Detectives from the Washington County Community Violence Reduction Team (CoVRT) were called to lead the investigation.

The shooting victim is expected to survive their injuries.

As the investigation continued, a man came forward and identified himself as involved in the incident. CoVRT detectives interviewed the man, 49-year-old John Anthony James of Portland, and arrested him for the following:

• Assault in the first degree
• Attempted assault in the second degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Reckless endangering
• Menacing

The investigation is ongoing, and additional witnesses may still come forward. If you witnessed this incident and have not spoken with CoVRT detectives, please contact the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 503-846-2500 and reference the case number 50-26-16005. 

The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Special Board Meeting will be held Friday, November 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM.

Location: This meeting will be held virtually and not at a physical location. To attend remotely, please use the meeting link provided in the agenda. For any questions, contact us at wwss@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957.

If you wish to address the WWSS Board, please contact wwss@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request the Public Comment Form and return it prior to the day of the meeting. 

The meeting is accessible to people with disabilities and those who need qualified bilingual interpreters. Please contact WWSS@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request an interpreter for the hearing impaired, a bilingual interpreter, or for other accommodations should be made at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

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

https://www.tvwd.org/1312/Willamette-Water-Supply-System-Commissio. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.tvwd.org/1312/Willamette-Water-Supply-System-Commissio

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

Honduran National Unlawfully Residing in the United States Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm Charges

PORTLAND, Ore. — A Honduran national unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty in federal court today to possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute and unlawfully possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford.

Ingrid Hernandez-Salgado, 22, of Gresham, Oregon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

“Fentanyl continues to devastate families and communities across Oregon, and those who choose to distribute this deadly drug will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford. “This defendant not only trafficked fentanyl but also possessed a stolen firearm while unlawfully present in the United States. Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners remain committed to disrupting drug trafficking and protecting public safety.”

According to court documents, in July 2026, an undercover Portland Police Bureau officer began communicating by text message with Hernandez-Salgado after investigators identified a phone number believed to be used in drug trafficking. Over several days, Hernandez-Salgado and the undercover officer negotiated the sale of approximately one ounce of fentanyl powder and agreed to meet on July 8, 2026, near a gas station in Gresham, Oregon.

Law enforcement officers conducting surveillance observed Hernandez-Salgado arrive at the meeting location in a vehicle. After confirming she was the individual communicating with the undercover officer, officers detained her and recovered approximately 25 grams of fentanyl powder. During a search of the vehicle, investigators located a stolen AMT Backup .45 ACP pistol in the vehicle's center console.

Following Hernandez-Salgado's arrest, investigators searched her apartment in Gresham and located more than $5,900 in U.S. currency.

As part of her guilty plea, Hernandez-Salgado admitted that she knowingly possessed fentanyl with the intent to distribute it and knowingly possessed a firearm while unlawfully present in the United States. She further admitted that the firearm had traveled in interstate commerce and that she knew of her unlawful immigration status when she possessed it.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Hernandez-Salgado agreed to forfeit the firearm, associated ammunition, approximately $5,919 in U.S. currency, and two cellular phones during the investigation.

Hernandez-Salgado faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and 15 years in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Portland Police Bureau. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady Adams for the District of Oregon.

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Portland, Ore. – The 142nd Wing out of the Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore. will conduct Veterans Day flyovers for ceremonies at locations throughout Oregon.

“The 142nd Wing proudly honors Veterans Day with F-15 flybys across Oregon, recognizing the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans and their families," said Chief Master Sgt. Charles Trinchitella, 142nd Wing Command Chief. "These flights reflect our gratitude for those who served before us and our ongoing commitment to defending the Pacific Northwest and upholding the freedoms they fought to secure.”

Flyovers will be conducted over the following locations between 10:50 a.m and 12:50 p.m.

Hillsboro

Salem

Albany

Roseburg

Bend

Pendleton

The Dalles

Hollywood Neighborhood, Portland

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and about 350 mph airspeed. Flights could be cancelled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

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About the 142nd Wing

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1,400 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $130 million to the region. The 142nd Wing defends our homeland with F-15 Eagle fighter jets, guarding the Pacific Northwest skies from northern California to the Canadian border as part of Air Combat Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Their mission is to provide unequaled, mission-ready units to sustain combat aerospace superiority and peacetime tasking any time, any place in service to our nation, state and community.

Photo Caption:

An F-15EX Eagle II aircraft assigned to the Oregon Air National Guard’s 142nd Wing takes off from Nellis Air Force Base (AFB), Nevada, August 27, 2026. The 142nd Wing’s fleet of F-15EXs operated out of Nellis AFB for three weeks in late August and early September in support of the U.S. Air Force’s Weapons Instructor Course (WIC). During this time, the unit hit a historical milestone, dropping live bombs from operational F-15EXs for the first time. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Steph Sawyer)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

Previously Convicted Mexican National Unlawfully Residing in the United States Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. —Fernando Lombera Gonzalez, 34, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release today for conspiring to distribute more than three pounds of methamphetamine in Oregon.

According to court documents, in late May 2024, a federal agent contacted Gonzalez and arranged a controlled purchase of approximately 1,350 grams of methamphetamine. On June 1, 2024, Gonzalez traveled to Salem, Oregon, where Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigators observed him retrieve methamphetamine from a second vehicle before delivering approximately 1,377 grams of the drug, roughly equivalent to three pounds, in exchange for payment.

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Gonzalez in November 2024. On Jan. 18, 2025, Gonzalez was encountered during a traffic stop and provided law enforcement officers with a false name. Despite the deception, officers identified Gonzalez and arrested him on an outstanding warrant in a separate Marion County case involving a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. He was later transferred to federal custody in this case.

On Nov. 13, 2025, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

Court records show Gonzalez had previously been convicted of methamphetamine trafficking and removed from the United States to Mexico. After unlawfully returning to the United States, he resumed criminal activity and served as a middleman for a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in the Salem area. Prosecutors noted that neither his prior felony drug trafficking conviction nor his removal from the United States deterred him from returning to drug trafficking. Prosecutors further noted that Gonzalez engaged in separate firearm-related criminal conduct as a convicted felon, including an incident in which he discharged a firearm outside a nightclub.

“After a felony drug trafficking conviction and removal from the United States, this defendant unlawfully returned and went right back to serious criminal conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford. “Not only did he distribute large quantities of methamphetamine – a drug that fuels addiction, violence, and suffering in our communities – but he also engaged in separate firearm-related criminal activity as a convicted felon. Repeat offenders who show this level of disregard for our laws and public safety will be prosecuted aggressively and held accountable."

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Jarrett of the District of Oregon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

Umatilla Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material and Making Hoax Abuse Reports

PORTLAND, Ore. — Thomas Goatley, 23, of Umatilla, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release for distributing child sexual abuse material and making harassing phone calls in which he falsely claimed to be sexually abusing children, U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford announced today.

According to court documents, from at least September 2023 through April 2024, Goatley used multiple online platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Discord and X, to view, receive and distribute child sexual abuse material. When he was arrested in July 2024, investigators found approximately 50 images and 40 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children in his possession.

Court records show Goatley also made numerous anonymous harassing phone calls to schools, police departments, emergency dispatch centers, animal shelters and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). During the calls, he falsely claimed to be sexually abusing a child and provided fabricated details about the alleged abuse.

Among other incidents, Goatley repeatedly contacted an elementary school in Helena, Montana, and falsely claimed to be abusing a student. He also called an elementary school in Newcastle, Wyoming, and falsely reported that he had abducted and was abusing a student. In response, schools in Newcastle were placed on lockdown while law enforcement officers from multiple agencies worked to locate the caller.

Goatley also contacted the Dearborn, Michigan, Police Department and falsely claimed to be abusing his 12-year-old daughter at a local hotel. Officers responded and determined the room he described did not exist.

Between Feb. 17 and April 8, 2024, Goatley made 10 calls to NCMEC falsely claiming to be abusing either his daughter or sister. During many of the calls, he provided false identifying information.

On Aug. 12, 2026, Goatley waived indictment and pleaded guilty to a five-count information charging one count of distributing child pornography and four counts of making obscene or harassing telephone calls.

In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered Goatley to pay $1,000 to NCMEC, pay a $500 special assessment and forfeit digital devices used in the offenses.

“Individuals who distribute child sexual abuse material contribute to the ongoing exploitation of children, while false reports of child abuse divert critical law enforcement resources and create fear in communities,” said Scott Bradford, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon. “This sentence holds the defendant accountable for both harms.”

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

Portland Man Sentenced to 55 Months in Federal Prison for Mail Theft, Identity Theft Scheme

PORTLAND, Ore. — A Portland man was sentenced to four years and seven months in federal prison for stealing hundreds of pieces of mail, using stolen identities to commit bank fraud, and possessing counterfeit postal service keys, U.S. Attorney Scot Bradford announced today.

Michael John Peters, 43, was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of stolen mail, possession of counterfeit postal service arrow keys, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The court also ordered Peters to pay $30,079 in restitution to victims and a $400 special assessment.

According to court documents, beginning in May 2025, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated a series of mail thefts from apartment and condominium buildings throughout the Portland metropolitan area. Surveillance footage showed Peters entering secured residential buildings, opening cluster mailboxes using counterfeit postal service keys, and stealing mail.

On July 8, 2025, Peters was confronted by security staff while attempting another mail theft. He abandoned a backpack containing counterfeit postal service keys, stolen mail belonging to multiple victims, and a device used to gain access to secured buildings.

Investigators determined that Peters used information obtained from stolen mail to commit identity theft and bank fraud. In one instance, he opened a checking account in a victim's name and obtained a $20,000 loan from a financial institution. He also submitted additional fraudulent loan applications seeking more than $100,000 from various financial institutions.

On Sept. 22, 2025, U.S. Postal Inspectors executed a federal search warrant at an apartment Peters had rented using a victim's identity. When authorities arrived, a tenant reported that Peters jumped from an upper-floor balcony onto the tenant's twelfth-floor balcony before running through the apartment and fleeing down a stairwell.

During the search, investigators recovered approximately 393 pieces of stolen mail, 22 identification cards, 15 gift cards, 15 debit and credit cards, counterfeit identification documents, and equipment used to manufacture counterfeit keys and fraudulent identification cards. Authorities also seized 3D printers, a key-cutting machine, credit card readers, silicone key molds, and other tools used to facilitate the scheme.

Investigators later arrested Peters at the residence of a romantic partner and recovered additional evidence of the identity theft operation from his cellular phones.

Court records show Peters had prior convictions for similar offenses in Hawaii and California and was on probation in both jurisdictions when he committed the Oregon offenses.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Portland Police Bureau and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

It was prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. Narus for the District of Oregon.

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DALLAS (OR) – Calvin Jerome Tucker III, 55, has been found guilty by a Polk County jury of 3 counts of Arson in the First Degree, 3 counts of Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree, and 8 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person for his actions in starting a fire in October, 2025 that caused extensive damage to multiple units and the death of three household companion animals.

At approximately 10:15 p.m., on October 3, 2025, Salem Fire Department units responded to a two story four-plex apartment complex on Stoneway Drive, NW, its roof and stairwell were engulfed in flames. Three of the four apartments were occupied by families when the fire was started. One family was trapped on the second story and required assistance from bystanders to get their children to safety. The fourth apartment was occupied by five cats, two of which firefighters were able to save, while the remaining perished.

A joint investigation overseen by the Salem Police and Fire Departments determined that the fire was started intentionally by Tucker with gasoline in retaliation after one of the occupants of the apartment complex ended their multi-year relationship. The jury specifically found in its verdict that Tucker had shown no remorse for his actions.

The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before reaching its verdict after a three-day trial which was overseen by Polk County Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park. Tucker is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10 at 4:00 p.m.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen. The case was investigated by the Salem Police Department and Salem Fire Department.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on November 12, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84741510285?pwd=Tuw3B82ryoN2jeuVRCQYd5XSJKII7s.1
Passcode:023033

SALEM, Ore. – Three logging companies have been chosen as Operator of the Year for their respective region of Oregon. Three regional advisory committees to the Oregon Board of Forestry selected the trio last month. The recipients will be recognized in Salem at the January meeting of the Board. The honorees are: 

• Eastern Oregon — Wood River Timber, Inc., headquartered in Klamath Falls, Ore.

• Northwest Oregon — Iron Horse Logging, Inc., out of Mapleton, Ore. in Lane County
• Southwest Oregon — Lone Rock Logging based in Roseburg, Ore.

The award recognizes forest operators who, while harvesting timber or doing other forestry work, have a track record of protecting natural resources and improving forest health at a level that consistently meets or exceeds requirements of the Oregon Forest Practices Act . The Act requires people to manage forests responsibly and protect streams and water quality, protect and enhance habitat, and reduce landslide risks. The law also requires landowners to replant forests after harvesting.  

Videos about each of the three Operators of the Year and three Merit Award winners can be viewed on the ODF website at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Working/Pages/default.aspx 

Eastern Oregon 

Wood River Timber, Inc., was named Operator of the Year for Eastern Oregon for the company’s many efforts to help small landowners improve the health of their forestland while reducing catastrophic wildfire risk. The selection committee cited owner Ray Driscoll for the time he spends educating landowners and providing a quality harvest while meeting the landowners’ objectives. One project that committee members cited, in particular, was his work thinning overcrowded ponderosa pine on two adjoining parcels west of Klamath Falls. The selection committee agreed the work was a great example of skillful logging that protected trees one landowner wanted retained while removing juniper and enough other trees to open up the forest floor to grazing by cattle and wildlife. The thinning also reduced the risk of devastating wildfire.

Landowner Karen Crawford praised Wood River’s owner Ray Driscoll for the meticulous attention he paid to felling each tree and removing it without damaging trees to be left. “He was very meticulous in his operation. It’s been a year and you can barely see skid trails, everything looks fantastic.”

Northwest Oregon 

Iron Horse Logging was able to keep trees intact in multiple buffers on a unit right above a wetland and fish-bearing stream, both of which were protected from any sediment runoff. The buffers that were protected included new ones in draws leading to that fish-bearing stream that are now required under revisions to the Oregon Forest Practices Act. Iron Horse uses tall yarders to bring logs up to a landing with minimal damage to soils. Because equipment to handle big trees has become rarer in recent years, Iron Horse serves many landowners with difficult harvesting jobs other loggers often turn down.

Iron Horse’s careful attention to protecting forest resources was also cited by the selection committee, which cited the firm’s consistently good work over many years logging in heavy rainfall areas of the Coast Range.

Southwest Oregon 

Lone Rock Logging was chosen as Operator of the Year for the Southwest Oregon Region for their track record of meeting the highest standards of the Oregon Forest Practices Act. In particular they were cited for successfully working under new Forest Practices Act rules requiring wider stream buffers to be protected as well as new equipment limitation zones on draws leading to fish-bearing streams.  

Lone Rock took extra efforts to protect the retained trees without damaging them while running cables through the tops. They did not break a bunch of limbs or damage tops despite having to make multiple yarding corridor changes through trees in the buffer. They succeeded by using several harvesting practices and preplanning cutting to position logs where the yarding equipment could reach them without damaging the leave trees. These practices protected thousands of feet of protected tree buffers along a wetland and similar retention zones in hillside draws.

Leaving trees in those stands served various purposes, including protecting soil from erosion and downstream water from sediments. Trees left standing would also be available when they eventually fell over to deliver woody debris for future fish habitat. To do so, Lone Rock had to set up multiple yarding sites and haul logs up to landings.

One innovation the company is trialing is the use of synthetic cable as an extension to the traditional, heavy steel cable. The lighter cable is less likely to damage trees when it is passing logs through a buffer.

Merit Awards

Merit Awards were also given to three other companies. 

Eastern Oregon 

• Josh and Jacque Cobb own and operate J and J Timber Resources based in Haines in eastern Oregon’s Baker County. Their company earned the Merit Award for work to improve elk habitat on a federal winter-feeding ground in Baker County. Cobb thinned out an overcrowded ponderosa pine forest to allow more grass and brush to grow between remaining trees, creating better forage for elk and deer. The Cobbs reduce wood waste by sending it to large sawmills to burn as fuel for those mills’ operations. The Cobb’s own small mill provides an outlet for smaller landowners to take log loads that wouldn’t be large enough to interest mills needing greater wood volumes.

Northwest Oregon

• Todd Perrigo is owner of Perrigo Timber, LLC, based in Warrenton, Ore. His company earned the Merit Award for the care with which he pre-plans each logging job, walking every part of every unit to identify issues and have a plan to prevent or mitigate any damage to forest resources.

He was also cited for how he and his crew handle woody debris from logging. Perrigo carefully piles brush so that each debris pile burns fast and hot and is encircled by mineral soil, reducing the chance of it setting fire to the surrounding clearcut when burned. The company’s leadership in sorting out large woody debris and piling it to create dens for small creatures was also noted.

 Southwest Oregon 

• C and M Timberland Resources, LLC, is headquartered in Glide, Ore., east of Roseburg. They earned a Merit Award for placing a large culvert in a deep ravine on a concrete base they built, then piling tens of feet of dirt on top to create a stable crossing for logging trucks, then faced the whole thing with boulders to prevent erosion. They also built a bridge over a fish stream, hauling in 52-foot long sections on a winding logging road. Their work improved the channel and stabilized the streambank on either side. On the same parcel they also had to excavate a steep forested hillside to put in a logging road, all while successfully preventing sediment from reaching a nearby stream.

ODF Forest Resources Division Chief Josh Barnard said, “the selection committees had excellent candidates this year when choosing who they would honor, all of whom showed they went to great lengths to protect the forest environment.”

Barnard said nominees showed they could meet the challenge of working under new harvesting rules. The updated Oregon Forest Practices Act rules provide more protection for forest resources, such as wider buffers for fish-bearing streams and retaining more trees in especially steep areas.  

“Many of the harvest sites this year had terrain that was quite challenging,” said Barnard. “The Operators of the Year showed extraordinary care and diligence to protect slopes and streams. We’re proud to recognize those efforts.” 

Oregon enacted the Forest Practices Act in 1971 as a national model for forest management laws. The law focuses on ensuring responsible forest operations and protecting natural resources in forestland. The Act has been updated many times based on new scientific information and values to create a balanced approach to natural resource management. 

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SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Board Self-Evaluation (Addendum G)

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged in advance of the meeting by emailing oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

Committee members include Ben Deumling and Heath Curtiss.

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

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a vehicle crash at Northeast Padden Parkway and Northeast 94th Avenue on Nov. 6, 2026.

This individual died on 11/06/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Shlyakhtich, Sergey V   Age: 39 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Pending

Manner of death:  Pending

Place of injury: Roadway intersection

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: 11/10/2026

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is taking additional steps over the coming months to further improve the accuracy of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits so that people in Oregon receive the correct amount of food assistance.

As part of this work, ODHS will conduct several rounds of income accuracy checks on existing SNAP cases and begin requiring proof of housing and utility costs when people apply for or renew benefits. Some households may receive notices requesting additional information.

These efforts are part of the agency's ongoing work to reduce Oregon's SNAP payment error rate, improve benefit accuracy and help households avoid unexpected changes to their food assistance as new federal requirements take effect.  

"We want every person in Oregon who qualifies for SNAP to receive the right amount of food benefits," said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. "Income can be complicated, especially with gig work, changing work hours or financial help from family members. We also know that not everyone has traditional documents to show their housing expenses. Our goal is to help people understand what information is needed and connect them with support so they can keep receiving the benefits they qualify for."

What SNAP households should do

Some SNAP households may receive notices asking for additional information about their income, housing or utility costs.

ODHS encourages people to:

• Read notices carefully. Each notice will explain what information is needed and when it is due.
• Respond by the deadline. Providing requested information on time can help prevent delays or interruptions in benefits.
• Keep contact information updated. Make sure ODHS has your current mailing address and phone number so you receive important notices.
• Ask for help. If you have questions or trouble getting documents, contact ODHS as soon as possible. Staff can help you understand what is needed.

Income accuracy checks will continue over the coming months

ODHS will check income on more than 80,000 SNAP cases in November and December 2026, with additional rounds planned next year.

As part of these checks, ODHS will look at household income information to identify anything that could affect a household's SNAP benefits. If more information is needed, ODHS will contact the household or send an "Information Needed" notice explaining what information is needed.

Not every household will need to take action. However, people who receive a notice should read it carefully and respond by the deadline. Households that do not respond to a request for information may lose their SNAP benefits.

If an income accuracy check identifies information that changes a household's eligibility or benefit amount, ODHS will send a notice explaining the change.

New proof requirements for housing and utility costs begin Nov. 21

Beginning Nov. 21, 2026, people applying for or renewing SNAP benefits will need to provide proof of their housing and utility costs for those expenses to be counted when calculating benefits.

Housing and utility costs can affect how much SNAP a household receives. Reporting these expenses may help households qualify for more food benefits. For more than a decade, Oregon has generally allowed people to report these expenses without providing documentation.

People who already receive SNAP will be asked to provide proof when they renew their benefits. However, people who move, report a change in their housing or utility costs, or begin paying a new expense before their next renewal will need to provide proof of those costs, even if they don’t receive a notice requesting it.

For housing costs, people need to provide proof of how much their household pays for rent, a mortgage or other eligible housing costs. They also need to identify which utilities they pay for or help pay for, such as electricity, gas or water. They don’t need to provide the specific dollar amount they pay.

Several types of documents can be used to verify expenses, including:

• A rental agreement or mortgage bill
• A utility bill
• A rental agreement that shows how utilities are paid
• A written receipt from a landlord
• A bank statement showing a payment to a landlord, property manager or mortgage company
• A screenshot from a payment app showing your housing payment or which utility the payment was for (including Venmo, PayPal or CashApp)
• A statement from a landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household.

A landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household may also be able to verify expenses by phone.

ODHS staff can help people find other ways to verify expenses if they share housing costs, get help paying bills or do not have permanent housing.

People should continue to apply for SNAP, renew their benefits and complete required interviews, even if they do not have documents ready.

If ODHS does not receive proof of housing or utility costs by the deadline, the agency will determine the eligibility and benefit amounts for the household without counting those costs. This means a household could receive fewer benefits or not qualify for SNAP. However, missing proof alone will not automatically result in an application being denied or an existing case being closed.

How to get help

• Online: Apply for or manage benefits at benefits.oregon.gov.
• By phone: Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time. Help is available in multiple languages.
• In person: Find a local ODHS office at oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx.
• ONE Online account or Oregon ONE Mobile app: View notices, upload documents and manage benefits.

Learn more about SNAP at oregon.gov/snap.

The following information is in reference to two deaths investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. The investigations are related to a crash involving vehicles and pedestrians at the intersection of Northeast Andresen Road and Northeast Van Mall Drive on Oct. 5, 2026.

Decedent 1:

This individual died on 10/05/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Rasa, Teresa Yvette   Age: 34 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Blunt force injuries

Manner of death:  Accident

How the injury occurred: Pedestrian struck by motor vehicle

Place of injury: Roadway

Decedent 2:

This individual died on 10/06/2026 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: O’Neal, Walter John M D   Age: 43 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Blunt force injuries

Manner of death:  Accident

How the injury occurred: Pedestrian struck by motor vehicle

Place of injury: Roadway

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 Vancouver Police Department.

Media release issue date: 11/10/2026

In August 2026, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office’s Street Crimes and Narcotics (SCAN) Team received information regarding the illegal sale and distribution of narcotics within Yamhill County. As a result of a multi-month investigation, detectives identified Stacie Rae Price, 46, of Woodburn, as an individual responsible for distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine into Yamhill County.

During the course of the investigation, SCAN investigators learned that Price was also supplying narcotics to Adults in Custody (AICs) housed at multiple correctional facilities throughout Oregon, including facilities in Yamhill and Marion County. Investigators discovered that narcotics were being introduced into correctional facilities by soaking paper with controlled substances and mailing the documents to specific AICs. The correspondence was allegedly disguised as "legal mail" and made to appear as if it originated from attorney offices.

SCAN investigators intercepted multiple pieces of suspected contraband mail during the investigation. Subsequent testing of the paper yielded positive results for the presence of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

The investigation was presented to a Yamhill County Grand Jury, which returned a True Bill, resulting in the issuance of an arrest warrant for Price for Unlawful Delivery of Fentanyl ORS 475.790(2), Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine ORS 475.890(2) and Supplying Contraband ORS 162.185.

In an effort to dismantle and disrupt the suspected drug distribution operation, investigators obtained search warrants authorized by a Yamhill County Circuit Court Judge. On November 3, 2026, members of the SCAN Team, along with multiple partner agencies, executed coordinated enforcement actions and served search warrants at Price's residence located in Woodburn, Oregon.

With the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Salem Resident Office, Woodburn Police Department, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department, Marion County Sheriff's Office, and the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office’s Special Investigations Unit, investigators successfully took Price into custody without incident.

During the execution of the search warrants, investigators seized the following suspected controlled substances:

• 80.6 grams of Methamphetamine
• 36.3 grams of Fentanyl
• 52.2 grams of Cocaine
• Eight Xanax pills ("bars")

Investigators also located evidence within the residence consistent with the packaging, preparation, and distribution of narcotics, as well as evidence supporting the introduction of contraband into correctional facilities.

Price was transported to the Yamhill County Correctional Facility where she was lodged on the outstanding warrant.  Additional charges may be considered as the investigation continues, and evidence is reviewed by the Yamhill County District Attorney’s Office. 

The SCAN Team would like to thank its partner agencies for their assistance and collaboration throughout this investigation. The successful outcome highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in disrupting drug trafficking operations and preventing dangerous controlled substances from reaching our communities and correctional institutions.

The Oregon State Marine Board invites recreational boaters and others interested in the agency’s work to a Town Hall meeting. Four informal, family-friendly meetings are being held in Tillamook, Scappoose, and Wilsonville.

Town Halls are an opportunity for agency staff to meet with local recreational boaters and to learn about area needs. It’s also a chance to gather feedback on the agency’s proposed budget and legislative concepts for the 2027-2029 legislative session. The Town Hall meeting is scheduled in an open format, so people can come and go as their schedules allow.

The goal is to build stronger connections with local boaters, share what the agency does, and explain how boating dollars are used in communities. Staff looks forward to answering questions about boating safety, agency rules, grant funding, boating access, titling and registration, outfitter guides, and any environmental concerns.

The Town Hall meeting times are from 4 pm to 7 pm and in an open format so you can come as your schedule allows.

MEETING DETAILS

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov to learn more about the Marine Board, Oregon’s recreational boating agency.

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The Marine Board is funded by boater-paid fees, marine fuel taxes and non-motorized boater-paid waterway access permits. The Marine Board does not receive any lottery or general fund tax dollars.  These funds support boating safety enforcement and education, environmental programs, and facility access improvements statewide.

LocatedThe Vancouver Police are seeking a missing subject named Kaylee Swanson. Kaylee, is listed as a white female who is 6'00" tall and 163lbs with hazel eyes. Kaylee was last seen wearing a burgandy colored winter coat. Kaylee is known to hike alone and is thought to be heading to the Mt. St.Helens area (Clark/Cowlitz/Skamania). Kaylee is thought to be driving a 2009 Toyota Tacoma with Washington plate NP18704. If you have information as to the whereabouts of Kaylee or the listed vehicle please call 311 or 911.Located

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Enticement of Oregon Minor

MEDFORD, Ore. — A North Carolina man has pleaded guilty in federal court to attempting to coerce and entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity, U.S. Attorney Scott Bradford announced today.

Sage Austin Miller, 28, from Winston Salem, North Carolina, pleaded guilty to one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

According to court documents, on Sept. 23 and 24, 2024, Miller used Snapchat to communicate with a person he believed was a 16-year-old girl living in Medford, Oregon. During the online communications, Miller attempted to persuade and entice the purported minor to meet him for sexual activity. Miller later traveled to and arrived at a predetermined meeting location.

As part of his plea agreement, Miller admitted that he used a cellular phone connected to the internet to communicate with a person he believed was under the age of 18 and that his conduct constituted a substantial step toward committing the offense. The conduct would have violated Oregon's Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree statute had the planned encounter occurred.

Attempted coercion and enticement of a minor carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and five years to life of supervised release.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Miller agreed to forfeit several electronic devices used to facilitate the offense, including two Apple iPhones and an Apple iPad.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith R. Harper of the District of Oregon.

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The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on November 12, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85778118963?pwd=amSLR6cfgeXz6U28IIlcbpywu7EQEa.1
Passcode:338495

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power receives $50 million grant from U.S. Department of Energy
Funding will support grid modernization

State of Oregon v. Artemio Carrillo-Calmo

Marion County Circuit Court Case 26CR35840, 26CR18238, 22CR44873 and 18CR41208

Repeat Offender Held Accountable in Multiple Marion County Cases

Salem, OR – November 9, 2026, On November 5, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart sentenced Artemio Carrillo-Calmo (age 30) to 18 months in the Department of Corrections (DOC), followed by 180 days in the Marion County Jail, for a total of 24 months incarceration. Carillo-Calmo pled guilty to Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) as a felony, two counts of DUII as a misdemeanor, two counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree, two counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Animal Abuse in the First Degree, Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree, and Giving False Information to a Police Officer.

In addition to serving time in prison, Carrillo-Calmo is prohibited from possessing or residing with a domestic animal for five years, his driver’s license has been permanently revoked, and he will be under post-prison supervision for 12 months.

After two prior DUII convictions resolved in a single 2016 case, in May of 2018 in Woodburn, Carrillo-Calmo intentionally rear-ended a vehicle occupied by his ex-girlfriend, damaging the car. He was eventually arrested and released and subsequently failed to appear at his appointed court date.

In September 2022, Woodburn police responded to a 911 call of what was believed to be a child screaming. Instead of an injured child, when they arrived on scene they found Carillo-Calmo choking a small dog on railroad tracks. The extent of the dogs injuries were significant and as a result it was humanely euthanized. Carrillo-Calmo was arrested but failed to appear at a subsequent hearing for the case. A warrant was issued for his arrest.

In March 2026, Carrillo-Calmo crashed into three other vehicles and injured his passenger while again driving intoxicated. His passenger was taken to the hospital. Two other victims, in a vehicle struck by Carrillo-Calmo, were trapped upside down in their car as a result of the accident. During that investigation, Carrillo-Calmo gave officers a false name and a forged ID. 

Unfortunately, he was released from custody again on this charge.

On July 3, 2026, police responded to a report of an impaired driver near Parr Road and S. Boones Ferry Road. The vehicle Carrillo-Calmo was driving was seen swerving into oncoming traffic, nearly colliding with two pedestrians. Upon stopping the Carrillo-Calmo, officers found multiple open beer containers in the vehicle and observed that Carrillo-Calmo was visibly intoxicated. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Under Oregon law (ORS 813.011), a third DUII within ten years is a Class C felony, punishable with a mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail. DUII convictions are not eligible to be set aside (expunged) under ORS 137.225, even if a diversion program is completed and the DUII was dismissed.

The state requested the maximum sentence allowed under law, which was 18 months in DOC and an additional 679 days (remaining incarceration from his previous DUIIs) in Marion County Jail.

The cases were prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office thanks the hard-working officers and investigators of the Woodburn Police Department.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver Police Public Affairs Manager/PIO Kim Kapp will be out of the office November 10-13. The following individuals will be handling media inquiries during regular business hours on the following dates:

• November 10: Assistant Chief Darren McShea ren.mcshea@cityofvancouver.us">darren.mcshea@cityofvancouver.us
• November 11-13: Deputy Chief Erica Nilsen ica.nilsen@cityofvancouver.us">erica.nilsen@cityofvancouver.us

As always for inquiries outside of regular business hours (8am-5pm), members of the media should contact CRESA on the media line and request a return call from an on-duty Patrol Sergeant. Please do not email the above-listed contacts outside of the listed dates of coverage.

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The final quarterly meeting of 2026 for the Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will be held virtually and in person on Wednesday, Dec. 2, in the auditorium of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, 700 Summer Street N.E. in Salem. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a town hall meeting at 11:30 a.m., which is open to the public.

Established in 1945, the Advisory Committee holds a distinct and fundamental role in advising the director and staff of ODVA. The nine members of the committee are military veterans from all corners of the state, appointed by the governor to serve and act as advocates for veteran issues and veteran concerns across Oregon.

Following every quarterly business meeting, the committee holds a town hall inviting the public to raise questions or concerns about broad veteran issues or to share information with the committee and agency director.

Members of the community are also invited to submit written public comments to the committee by emailing odva_vaac@odva.oregon.gov. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the first Wednesday of March, June, September and December.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Please register at events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/1c54b087-7fea-4829-b07b-d8bc62d42d80@aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf  to attend any portion of this meeting.

Attendees will be allowed to participate during the town hall and will be invited to turn on their camera and unmute mics during a recorded meeting that will be posted online at a later date.

More information about the Advisory Committee and meeting materials can be found online at www.oregon.gov/odva/Connect/Pages/Advisory-Committee.aspx.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services or locate a local county or Tribal veteran services office online at oregon.gov/odva.

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OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the Holden Natural Resources Center on Monday, Dec. 7, at 3:30 p.m. The new facility will bring natural resources education and Oregon State University Extension Service’s Clackamas County office together on the college’s Oregon City campus.

The 38,000-square-foot facility will house programs in water and environmental technology, horticulture, landscape management, organic farming, arboriculture and wildland fire. Designed for hands-on learning, it will include specialized laboratories, classrooms, a covered outdoor classroom and teaching gardens.

“Our students are preparing for careers that touch all of our lives, from the water we drink to the forests and farms that sustain our communities,” CCC President Tim Cook said. “This center will give them space to learn by doing, solve problems and build the skills they need to care for our natural resources.”

Among the center’s distinguishing features is a dedicated tree climbing lab — one of only two at colleges nationwide. Students will practice rope access, aerial rescue and safe climbing techniques in a controlled environment, gaining specialized arboriculture training rarely available in a college setting. Outdoor learning areas will also support instruction in irrigation efficiency, sustainable landscaping and environmental practices.

The center is being developed in partnership with OSU Extension and the Clackamas County Extension and 4-H Service District. Extension faculty, staff and trained volunteers work alongside local partners to provide educational workshops, activities and services tailored to the unique industries, natural resources and people in the community.

 “OSU Extension helps people turn research-based knowledge into practical solutions that improve their lives and communities,” Kris Elliott, vice provost for Extension and engagement and director of OSU Extension, said. “This partnership will make it easier for Clackamas County residents to access the expertise, hands-on education and resources they need to support their families, care for their land and build stronger communities.”

“This is an investment in the people of Clackamas County,” Commissioner Martha Schrader said. “From young people discovering their interests through 4-H to farmers and gardeners learning new practices, the OSU Extension Services offers opportunities to keep learning at every stage of life. Bringing those opportunities together at this new location will create lasting benefits for residents throughout our county.”

The project is supported by CCC’s voter-approved 2024 bond, $8 million in state matching funds, Clackamas County’s Extension and 4-H Service District and a $5 million gift from Terry and Cheryl Holden. The center is named in recognition of the Holdens’ longstanding support for career technical education and CCC students.

With roots in Clackamas County — Cheryl grew up in Estacada and Terry in Molalla — the Holdens have invested in educational opportunities close to home. Their gift follows a $5 million donation in 2021 to establish the Holden CTE Capital Projects Fund, which supports an industrial technology center, scholarships for career technical education students and funding for student veterans.

The groundbreaking ceremony will take place rain or shine at the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., near the Beavercreek entrance, off Clairmont Drive. The center is scheduled to open in spring 2028. The center is scheduled to open in spring 2028.

For more information about the project, visit www.clackamas.edu/NRC. For ceremony information, contact Lori Hall at i.hall@clackamas.edu">lori.hall@clackamas.edu.

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VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites prospective students, families and community members to explore college possibilities at Preview Day from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, on the WSU Vancouver campus.

The free event is designed to help students discover how their interests connect to academic programs, careers and future opportunities, whether they have already chosen a major or are still exploring their options.

"Your future doesn't start with choosing a major. It starts with exploring what interests you," said Jason Yi, director of admissions. Preview Day encourages students to explore subjects and career paths that align with their passions, strengths and goals.

Participants will also learn how they can earn a Washington State University degree close to home while staying connected to the people and communities that matter most. Students who live at home while attending WSU Vancouver save about $12,000 per year compared with students attending a residential campus.

Guests will have the opportunity to:

• Learn how interests connect to academic programs and careers.
• Tour classrooms, labs and hands-on learning spaces.
• Meet current students and learn about student life, clubs and campus involvement opportunities.
• Explore scholarships, financial aid and other ways to make college more affordable than you may think.
• Discover internships, career preparation resources and experiential learning opportunities.

The event is free and open to everyone, but registration is encouraged. To register, visit vancouver.wsu.edu/preview.

For more information or to register, visit WSU Vancouver Admissions or contact the admissions team at van.admissions@wsu.edu or 360-546-9788.

For disability-related accommodations, call 360-546-9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

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The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a vehicle crash on Northeast Blair Road in Washougal on Oct. 30, 2026.

This individual died on 10/30/2026 in Washougal, WA.

The name of the decedent: Dolan, Carol Marie   Age: 73 years

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

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Sudden cardiac death

Underlying cause / due to: Hypertensive heart disease

Other significant conditions: History of left bundle branch block

Manner of death:  Natural

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: 11/09/2026

Humans for Housing marks second anniversary of “No Place to Grow Old” with free Portland screening Nov. 10

Documentary on senior homelessness launches on Amazon Prime Video Nov. 17, bringing Portland stories to a broader audience

PORTLAND, Ore. — Nov. 9, 2026 — Humans for Housing and Holst Architecture will host a free second-anniversary screening of “No Place to Grow Old” on Tuesday, Nov. 10, bringing the community together to explore senior homelessness through the experiences of older Portlanders. The event comes one week before the documentary’s Nov. 17 launch on Amazon Prime Video.

The film examines the systemic challenges and deeply personal circumstances that leave older adults unexpectedly without a place to call home. Through their stories, “No Place to Grow Old” invites audiences to consider what it means to age without stable housing and the community’s role in addressing the crisis.

The Amazon Prime Video launch marks a significant next chapter for the film, expanding opportunities for audiences beyond local screenings to encounter these stories and engage in conversations about aging, housing and homelessness.

The Nov. 10 anniversary event will include a reception with refreshments and discussion from 4:30 to 6 p.m., followed by the film screening and a question-and-answer session with the filmmakers from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Event details

• What: Free second-anniversary screening of “No Place to Grow Old”
• When: Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, 4:30–7:30 p.m.
• Where: East County Library, Gresham, Or.
• Schedule: Reception, refreshments and discussion, 4:30–6 p.m.; film screening and filmmaker Q&A, 6–7:30 p.m.
• Admission: Free – Register here

Learn more about the film and its upcoming streaming release at noplacetogrowold.com.

About Humans for Housing

Humans for Housing is a nonprofit organization grounded in the belief that every human has inherent worth and a right to safe, stable housing. Through storytelling, advocacy and community engagement, the organization works toward a future where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home. Learn more at humansforhousing.org.

About Holst Architecture

Holst is a comprehensive design firm with studios in Portland, Oregon, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. A women-owned B Corp practice, Holst combines design excellence with a commitment to positive social impact. Its team of more than 50 professionals shares a mission of creating meaningful architecture that people love. Learn more at holstarc.com.

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EUGENE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is taking an important step toward improving facilities at the Shotgun Creek Recreation Area by removing deteriorated wastewater treatment infrastructure at the site. This is the first phase of a larger investment to upgrade the facilities at Shotgun Creek Recreation Area for the next generation of recreationalists.

Starting in mid-November, the BLM will demolish and remove the existing wastewater treatment system. Crews will demolish aboveground facilities east of the recreation area, including a holding basin and a control shed, and fill below-ground infrastructure with a combination of rocks and cement. The southern restroom facility will be removed, and the northern restroom will be temporarily closed. In 2027, shortly after decommissioning the existing facilities, the BLM will install temporary restroom facilities. In 2027, work to construct a new vault toilet will begin.

“We want to thank the public for their patience and understanding.” said Christopher Finn, Upper Willamette Field Office Manager. “We understand the public’s appreciation of this recreation site and are working on improving the site to create a better user experience.”

Continued deterioration has prompted the BLM to decommission the wastewater treatment system and associated infrastructure at Shotgun Creek Recreation Site.

“We’re glad that we can keep Shotgun Creek open to the visitors during this decommissioning process,” said Finn. “We just ask that visitors to respect barriers and follow instructions on signage. We are restricting access only to the particular areas where equipment is being stored and construction is actively taking place.”

“We’ve done our best to schedule this work during the slower off-season, to cause the least amount of disruption to visitors,” Finn continued.

The popular recreation area is in Marcola, about 20 miles outside of Eugene. Visitors can immerse themselves in the enjoyment of surrounding hiking trails, a swimming area, meandering creeks, and picnicking units. Shelter reservations are available May 1 – September 30.

-BLM-

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

SALEM, Ore. – As this year comes to a close, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is looking back on 2026 and planning for the 2027 season.

OPRD welcomed millions of visitors this year to its state parks, including 2.2 million camping nights so far this year. Park rangers were on the ground welcoming visitors, cleaning restrooms, hosting hikes and star parties, and addressing hundreds of trail, utility, and other maintenance issues that arose throughout the year.

This year also came with some significant changes to OPRD’s fees as the agency successfully closed a $14 million funding gap for the 2025-2027 biennium. Some of the fees had not been updated in 15 years.

“These changes, while hard, were absolutely necessary and they prevented us from closing parks,” said OPRD director Lisa Sumption. “We fixed our budget in the short-term, and now we are turning our attention toward long-term solutions that do not put the burden solely on our visitors.”

Staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors for the 2027 season. To help visitors enjoy Oregon’s more than 250 state park areas and know what to expect next year, see the following updates.

Fall/Winter 2026:

• OPRD refreshed its online store, offering new ways to remember your favorite Oregon State Parks visit.
• OPRD and State Library of Oregon made 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state and will be evaluating opportunities to expand the Library Pass Program.
• Weatherization of parks closed over the winter months.
• Update reservation website to show the site fee per day when selecting available camping dates.
• New Spot Watch feature provides more detailed notification options via text or email. You can set up a notification that includes multiple parks, lodging types, and date ranges.
• Begin low-season park improvement projects, like those happening at Cape Lookout State Park, Silver Falls State Park and Smith Rock State Park.
• Following the new dump station fee implemented at 18 state parks, the agency is evaluating whether additional parks have the technology and site conditions to make implementation practical.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027

• First Day Hikes: Guided hikes at select parks on Jan. 1.
• The Transient Lodging Tax set by the Oregon Tourism Commission will increase from 1.5% to 2.75% and effects all OPRD overnight reservations. OPRD does not receive funds collected from this tax.
• Physical 12-month parking permits – the hang tags – will only be sold online and will cost $10 more to account for printing and handling fees. Digital 12-month parking permits will still cost $60 for Oregon residents and $75 for non-residents.
• Jessie M. Honeyman State Park will close for several months starting in January for utility and hazard tree removal work.

Spring 2027

• Park cleanup, repair and reopening after assessing any damage or issues that arose after the winter season.
• Rate increases to reservable day-use facilities (amphitheater, group day use, meeting hall, pavilion and picnic shelter), yurts and cabins take effect May 1. Increases will be about 5% to account for inflation in utility, supplies and staffing costs.
• Hire for seasonal staff.

OPRD is making substantially fewer fee changes in 2027. Addressing large maintenance projects that are overdue, often referred to as deferred maintenance, is the primary issue. If put off for too long, the issues can become persistent and cause service disruptions or closures to campgrounds.

The agency does not receive general fund tax revenue, and fees alone will not be able to address deferred maintenance. OPRD has been and will continue to focus on long-term funding solutions that can meet the scale of the deferred maintenance need.

Visit the website for more information.

Photo of buck deer (graphic image)

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (9 Nov. 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help identifying the person(s) responsible for the illegal killing of a buck deer near Prineville.

On Thursday, October 29, 2026, OSP Fish and Wildlife responded to a report of a buck deer that had been killed and harvested on private property along O’Neil Highway near Century Drive and Elliot Lane. Responding troopers believe the buck was killed with archery equipment between October 26 and October 28. Rifle deer season concluded on October 14, 2026, and there was no legal deer hunting season in effect at the time and location where the deer was found.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888 or TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Tips may also be submitted by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-354801. Tips may remain anonymous.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

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

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

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

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

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

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

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

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

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

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

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

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

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

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

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

November 9, 2026

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539

Oregon again awarded $197.3M to build on rural healthcare access improvements

Early success in implementing the Rural Health Transformation Program yields additional, second-year award to help restore local care in remote communities, strengthen emergency medical services, preserve maternal care, more

SALEM, Ore. – For the second year in a row, Oregon has been awarded about $197.3 million to continue improving rural healthcare through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has announced.

This new award comes after first-year RHTP investments brought positive results in key areas established by the Kotek administration. This new funding is in addition to the approximately $197.3 million that Oregon was awarded for the program’s first year.

Oregon is using this federal funding to support proven, community-driven projects that improve rural healthcare access — including maternity care, primary care, and behavioral health. With this funding, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) aims to grow and sustain the healthcare workforce, expand health technology, boost chronic disease management and prevention, and help the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon improve access and health outcomes in rural areas.

“Oregon should be proud of all that it has accomplished in the 11 months since the U.S. government first awarded our state Rural Health Transformation Program funding,” said Interim OHA Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “OHA and hundreds of organizations urgently rallied together to tackle projects that make it easier for people in rural Oregon to receive the quality healthcare they need and deserve. Additional federal funding will now help Oregon advance these remarkable efforts.”

The federal government awarded Oregon additional funding after evaluating Oregon’s and other states’ progress against their RHTP goals. During the national program’s inaugural year in 2026, Oregon was one of the first states to distribute federal funding to local projects, which enabled the state’s rural health improvement efforts to move forward more quickly.

Early successes lay foundation for transformation

OHA has so far provided grants to well over 300 organizations, including rural hospitals, rural health clinics, federally qualified health centers, community mental health programs, Federally Recognized Tribes, and nonprofit organizations.

Oregon’s early rural health investments are supporting a wide variety of projects, including:

• To ensure pregnant people and newborns in rural Northeastern Oregon can continue to receive quality care, Wallowa Memorial Hospital in Enterprise will provide advanced cesarean section training to family medicine physicians, increase obstetric and newborn care training for nurses, and more.
• Pregnant people living in Southern Oregon with substance use concerns will receive integrated care through the expansion of a project called Nurture Oregon, which offers peer recovery support, medical care, behavioral health services, social service coordination, and more.
• Grants Pass-based Siskiyou Health Center’s new mobile health clinic will bring primary care, substance use disorder treatment, mental healthcare, and other needed services to Southern Oregon’s geographically isolated Illinois Valley five days a week.
• People in the Malheur County ranching community of Jordan Valley will be able to receive primary care, psychiatric care, and women’s healthcare without needing to travel long distances after Cornerstone Whole Healthcare Organization remodels and reopens a local clinic that closed in 2013.
• Seaside Fire & Rescue will purchase a new ambulance and other equipment to strengthen emergency medical response for Seaside and surrounding Clatsop County communities.
• Community Health Centers of Lane County are building their ability to provide sealants, fluoride treatments, and other oral health services.
• Eleven rural hospitals along the Oregon Coast and in Eastern Oregon are forming the Cascades Rural High Value Network, a clinically integrated network through which participating hospitals will jointly coordinate care, invest in shared infrastructure and systems, negotiate value-based payment arrangements with insurers, and more.
• Columbia Gorge Health Council is expanding its Connected Care for Older Adults program, which provides in-home primary care and support to frail older adults in rural Hood River and Wasco counties so they can maintain their independence and avoid health crises.

OHA will largely use Oregon’s 2027 RHTP funding to further advance projects and efforts that received grants during the program’s first year to keep the momentum going and keep focus on programs that are working.

If Oregon is awarded more funding in future years, the state’s rural health efforts would enter a second phase that involves larger, more competitive grants for longer-term and sustainable regional projects with similar goals.

The RHTP was created by U.S. House Resolution 1, a federal tax and spending bill that became law in July 2025. The law will cut an estimated $15 billion in federal funding for Oregon programs that provide health insurance, food benefits, and more. The RHTP is one positive component of this law that is estimated to bring home to Oregon up to $1 billion over the course of the five-year program.

More information – including a statewide list of awards that been given so far – is on the OHA Rural Health Transformation Program webpage.

# # #

The Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $394,526,097.43, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents of this release are those of OHA and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.

Credit union shares smart shopping strategies to find better deals, avoid spending traps and keep holiday costs in check

PORTLAND, Ore. – Holiday spending is expected to climb again this year, putting added pressure on shoppers to make every dollar count. Americans plan to spend an average of $1,654 this year, up 4% from 2025, according to Deloitte’s 2026 Holiday Retail Survey. Shoppers are also getting more strategic about saving, with nearly four in 10 using five or more money-saving strategies to keep holiday costs in check, the survey found.

“With so many sales, promotions and payment options, it's almost too easy to spend more than you planned,” says Amy Reeves, senior vice president/regional manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “A big discount doesn't always mean you're getting a good deal. The goal is to make smart purchases that fit your budget so you can enjoy the holidays without paying for them months later.”

OnPoint recommends these five strategies to help people in Oregon and Southwest Washington find better deals, avoid common shopping traps and keep holiday spending in check:

1.Make a spending plan. Holiday debt can linger long after the decorations come down. One in four Americans are still paying off debt from last year's holiday season, according to WalletHub's 2026 Early Holiday Shopping Survey. To avoid adding to that burden, set a realistic budget that includes gifts, travel, meals, decorations and other seasonal expenses. Look at what you spent last year, set limits for each category and track purchases as you go.

2.Know when to buy, not just where. Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren't necessarily the best times to buy everything. Google's new When to Buy Guide uses historical shopping data to show when different products tend to see the biggest discounts. For example, shoppers may find better deals on fragrances shortly after Black Friday, deeper discounts on handbags in December.

3.Stack your savings. Don't stop at the advertised sale price. Look for opportunities to combine retailer promotions, digital coupons, loyalty rewards and cash-back apps like Rakuten. Before checking out, see if you have unused gift cards, store credits or rewards points that could cover part of your purchase. Check the terms, since some discounts can't be combined, and avoid buying items you don't need just to qualify for rewards.

4.Rethink your gift list. More gifts don't necessarily make for a better holiday. Consider Secret Santa or white elephant exchanges, group gifts or setting spending limits with friends and family. Experiences can also be meaningful alternatives to traditional presents and are an opportunity to support your local community. Half of holiday shoppers plan to give an experience this year, according to Deloitte’s 2026 Holiday Retail Survey. Consider a homemade dinner, tickets to a community event or a family outing. Free concerts, holiday light displays and other seasonal activities can also create lasting memories without a big price tag.

5.Don't let payment plans stretch your budget. Buy now, pay later options can make holiday purchases seem more affordable by dividing the cost into smaller payments. But those payments can add up quickly, especially when shopping at multiple retailers. Before choosing a payment plan, consider the full purchase price, review potential fees and make sure future payments fit your budget. A good deal isn't worth it if it creates financial stress after the holidays.

A more strategic approach to holiday spending can help consumers find meaningful savings while staying on track with their financial goals. OnPoint offers tools and resources to help members budget, save and plan ahead. Learn more about OnPoint's financial resources, services and locations at www.onpointcu.com.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 671,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 33 Oregon counties (Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. More information is available at onpointcu.com.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions, the Clark County Commission on Aging has established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award. The COA celebrates 2026 by presenting the 7^th annual Silver Citizen Award at their final meeting of the year. This year’s award recognizes two deserved givers: Bernie Gerhardt and Ed Dawson.

Bernie Gerhardt is described as a “volunteer extraordinaire” by staff at the Fort Vancouver Regional Library. She has been a Library volunteer for more than 10 years, and her works have included time in the ESL English Conversation Circles, Art4Art, the Author and Illustrator Dinner, and many other notable events. Bernie has volunteered for the American Field Services and through that organization hosted many students in her home. Other volunteer efforts include her time as a board member for the Directors of Volunteer Programs Association, the Nonprofit Network Conference, Friends of the Carpenter and Open House Ministries.

Ed Dawson became an attorney at 64 years of age and has been a volunteer with the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program (CCVLP) since 2010. Ed’s second career has included pro-bono work advising teachers and teachers unions, and helping his clients at CCVLP, regardless of income, race/ethnicity, immigration status, or gender/gender identity. Ed works on unlawful detainer (eviction) cases, and family law. He holds family law clinics and housing clinics each month. Since 2010, Ed has contributed almost 1,900 volunteer hours.

The meeting will begin at 4:30 pm Monday, Nov. 16, and is open to the public.

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

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

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet at 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, 2026, Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. This meeting is being held jointly with the annual meeting of the Oregon Prescribed Fire Council, which convenes on Nov. 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17. To join the CBMAC meeting virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. Learn more about registering for the Oregon Prescribed Fire Council annual meeting.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Welcome introductions
• Updated charter review
• Recommendations for CBM rule changes
• Public comment
• Training deliveries (Updates and feedback)
• PBAs and CBMs
• Use of CBM for cultural burning
• Updates
  • CBM rule updates
  • Liability Pilot Program

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually. There will be a period for public comment. 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 contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

View more information on the CBMAC webpage.

Oregon's 2021 Legislature passed Senate Bill 762 requiring the Oregon Department of Forestry to establish a Certified Burn Manager Program. It is the duty of the Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee to advise the Oregon Department of Forestry on the program.

The Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division completed DNA comparison testing and provided results to the Washington County Violent Crimes Unit on May 25, 2026. Detectives requested the testing as part of a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of Phuong Le and her three children in Cornelius in April 2025.

Although investigators believed early in the case that Phuong Le had killed her children before taking her own life, DNA testing was conducted on evidence collected at the scene to rule out other possibilities and ensure the findings were supported by all available forensic evidence.

On November 3, 2026, the District Attorney’s Office notified the Sheriff’s Office that they completed an extensive review of the investigation and determined the findings were consistent with the detective’s findings.

With all investigative and review processes now complete, the case has been closed. The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the profound impact this tragedy had on the family, friends, and the broader community. We hope the conclusion of this investigation provides some measure of closure to those affected, and we appreciate the community’s patience as investigators worked to ensure a thorough and complete review of the evidence.

Media Release Update: Identities of Deceased Cornelius Family Released

Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation into the deaths of a mother and three children found yesterday, April 8, at about 3:00 p.m. in Cornelius.

The family has been notified of their deaths, and their names are being released:

• 37-year-old Hong Phuong Le
• 7-year-old-son Thanh Tien Dam
• 5-year-old-daughter Ha Ngan Dam
• 2-year-old-daughter Viena Mai Dam

The Sheriff’s Office is in contact with the Forest Grove School District, ensuring timely communication reaches students, teachers, and personnel impacted by this tragic story.

The investigation is still in the early stages, and the release of information will be limited.

Detectives are asking for any information the community may have that could further the investigation, including personal or professional connections. If you have information about this case or a connection with the family, please contact the investigations division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-4892. 

Investigation Underway into the Deaths of Four People in Cornelius

April 8, 2025

On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 3:03 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a home near the 300 block of North 15th Avenue. A 911 caller reported finding four people deceased at the home.

Arriving deputies found the bodies of a 37-year-old woman and her three children, ages 2, 5, and 7. Their identities are not being released at this time. Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit are assisting in the investigation, and additional information will be released later.

Investigators do not believe there is a danger to the public. If you have information about this case, please contact the WCSO Investigations Division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-4892.

11/9/2026

Note to the editors: The Sheriff and Cornelius Police Chief will be available at 3:00 p.m. to provide a brief statement at 215 SW Adams Ave. We will not be taking questions. If you have follow-up questions, you can email the PIO. We will provide a single-point plug-in for sound (mult box).

Curbside parking is available in front of the Sheriff's Office. The PIO will greet you in the lobby and take your team to the media room.  

Award recipients selected from more than 630 nominations to be celebrated Dec. 1, followed by statewide Arts & Culture Summit Dec. 2 in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 9, 2026) — From preserving Indigenous traditions and creating opportunities for young artists to helping communities recover and thrive, seven outstanding individuals, organizations and communities have been selected for the 2026 Oregon Arts & Culture Awards.

Presented jointly by the Oregon Cultural Trust and Oregon Arts Commission, the awards and statewide summit honor the people and partnerships strengthening cultural life, creative work and community identity throughout Oregon.

Chosen from more than 630 community nominations, the recipients represent the creativity, leadership and cultural contributions that make Oregon a vibrant place to live, work and visit. They will be honored Tuesday evening, Dec. 1, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland.

“Arts and culture bring Oregon’s stories to life. They help us understand one another, celebrate the places we call home and build stronger, more vibrant communities,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “These honorees show what’s possible when creativity and community come together.”

Event Details

What: 2026 Oregon Arts & Culture Awards and Summit

When: December 1–2, 2026

Where: Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon

Media access: Contact Julie Lee at julie@littlebirdms.com to coordinate coverage and interviews.

Event information: www.culturaltrust.org/summit/

The celebration kicks off the Oregon Arts & Culture Awards and Summit, bringing together artists, cultural leaders, educators, policymakers, business partners and advocates from across the state. Together, they will recognize the role arts and culture play in Oregon’s identity, community recovery, economy and placemaking — and explore opportunities for connection, learning and collaboration.

“The work to keep a tradition alive, help a child find their voice or rebuild a community appears in tiny moments across Oregon every day,” said Amy Lewin, Oregon Director of Arts and Culture. “This gathering will honor our working artists, our leaders and our champions; it’s just one of many ways we are strengthening the connections for creatives ready to help define what’s next for Oregon. We invite all those interested to join us Dec. 1 and 2.”

Awards Celebration and Statewide Summit

The gathering builds on Oregon’s tradition of statewide cultural convenings, returning with a refreshed format that pairs recognition of outstanding cultural contributions with conversations about the sector’s future. The event also celebrates the Oregon Cultural Trust’s 25th anniversary.

Tuesday, December 1 | Oregon Arts & Culture Awards Celebration | 5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

The evening will honor the seven award recipients and celebrate 25 years of the Oregon Cultural Trust.

Wednesday, December 2 | Oregon Arts & Culture Summit | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

A statewide gathering of cultural organizations, funders, educators, Tribal representatives, business leaders and policymakers featuring the release of a new Creative Economy Report, a keynote presentation, breakout conversations on education and cross-sector collaboration, and opportunities to connect. A networking gathering will follow the Summit.

Oregon’s cultural sector supports more than 70,000 jobs and contributes $11 billion annually to the state’s economy, underscoring the importance of continued investment and collaboration.

2026 Oregon Arts & Culture Award Recipients

•  Lifetime Achievement in Arts & Culture Award — Roberta Lavadour, Pendleton: An accomplished artist and longtime leader of the Pendleton Center for the Arts, Lavadour has spent decades expanding access to arts education, exhibitions, music and cultural programming in Eastern Oregon.

•  Emerging Cultural Innovator Award — Erica Alexia Ledesma, Southern Oregon: An artist, storyteller and cultural organizer whose work amplifies Indigenous, Latine and immigrant voices. Ledesma co-founded Coalición Fortaleza and uses art to build community, encourage cultural expression and create opportunities for young people.

•  Traditional Arts and Culture Keepers Award — Stephanie Craig, anqati təmtəm tənas siyaxus, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde/Dayton: A traditional weaver, educator and cultural keeper dedicated to preserving Indigenous weaving traditions, sharing knowledge across generations and sustaining the natural materials and cultural practices essential to her art.

•  Community Catalyst Award — Talent’s Arts & Culture Community, Southern Oregon: Recognized for using arts and culture as a powerful force for community recovery following the devastating 2020 wildfires. Its “Our Stories Through Arts” initiative is a public art collaboration involving five local Talent organizations, reflecting a community-wide commitment to creativity, connection and revitalization.

•  Youth Engagement Award — Maxtivity Creative Space for Community Arts, Philomath: A nonprofit community arts studio empowering youth to express and grow their creative gifts, find belonging with creative peers and mentors, and use their creativity to make their communities more vibrant places to live.

•  Art and Culture in Public Places Award — City of Woodburn, Recognized for celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage through public murals, art installations, cultural celebrations and programs that reflect Woodburn’s diverse history and residents.

•  Business of the Year Award — Lithia & Driveway, Medford/Statewide: A longtime supporter of arts and culture throughout the state, Lithia & Driveway has made significant investments in organizations including the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Britt Music & Arts Festival, as well as in arts education and youth programming.

Best Media Opportunities:

Tuesday, December 1 — Awards Night & Celebration | Oregon Convention Center, Portland Ballroom

5:30 p.m. Welcome reception: cultural leaders and awardees arriving; dancers, artmaking and interviews.

6:30 p.m. Dinner and opening performance, followed by a welcome and reading from Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston and a celebration of the Oregon Cultural Trust’s 25th anniversary.

7:30 p.m. Arts & Culture Awards presentation: recognition of seven award recipients; key photo and interview opportunity.

Wednesday, December 2 — Statewide Arts & Culture Summit | Oregon Convention Center, Portland Ballroom

10 a.m. ECOnorthwest presentation of a new report on Oregon’s creative economy by Brittany Bagent, with findings on creative-sector jobs and contributions.

10:30 a.m. “Why Oregon’s Creative Economy Matters” panel featuring Damon Runberg (Business Oregon), Brittany Bagent (ECOnorthwest), Dana Whitelaw (High Desert Museum and Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon) and Jason Holland (Oregon Arts Commission Chair and Oregon Coast Council for the Arts).

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About the Oregon Cultural Trust

Created in 2001 by the Oregon Legislature, the Oregon Cultural Trust serves as an ongoing funding engine for arts, heritage and humanities. Funding comes through the Cultural Tax Credit, which empowers Oregonians to direct a portion of their state taxes to support cultural opportunities. A percentage of donations go directly to 45 county and Tribal Cultural Coalitions and qualified nonprofits, and a portion goes toward helping grow a permanent endowment. Nested within Business Oregon, the Cultural Trust’s investments support the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state. Learn more at CulturalTrust.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the Oregon Arts Commission

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

Oregon Heritage of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is offering grants for the construction or restoration of veterans and war memorials throughout Oregon. 

The grant application period is open now and closes February 14, 2027. 

Local and regional governments and federally recognized Tribes are eligible to apply for funding for monuments placed on publicly owned properties.  Grants may fund up to 80 percent of projects and require a 20 percent match from grant recipients.

New monuments should acknowledge veterans and/or wars not already recognized in the community.  Restoration projects may address broken monuments, missing elements, and/or additions to existing monuments.

Proposals must demonstrate active participation of a veteran organization and community support.

A free online workshop about the grant program will be held December 3, 2026; 9-10:30 a.m. via Zoom.  Registration is required.

For more information about the Veterans and War Memorials grant and other grant programs, visit www.oregonheritage.org.  Or contact Karen Litvin at en.Litvin@oprd.oregon.gov">Karen.Litvin@oprd.oregon.gov or 971-720-0852.

PRESS RELEASE

City of Vancouver Fire Department

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fire Crews Quickly Contain Residential Structure Fire in Vancouver

VANCOUVER, WA – At approximately 12:35 p.m. today, the City of Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a reported residential structure fire at 10003 NE 142nd Avenue in Vancouver, Washington.

Initial 911 callers reported a “huge bloom of black smoke” and “flames above the house,” prompting a significant fire response. Vancouver Fire Department responded with eight firefighting units, while Clark County Fire District 3 dispatched one fire engine. In total, 24 firefighters responded to the incident.

The first fire department unit arrived on scene just four and a half minutes after dispatch and found an active fire coming from the rear of the residence.

Firefighters immediately began operations, quickly confirming that all occupants had safely evacuated the home. Crews then worked to extinguish the fire from both the exterior and interior of the structure.

Thanks to the rapid response and coordinated efforts of responding personnel, the fire was brought under control in just 17 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene and is investigating the cause and origin of the fire.

The City of Vancouver Fire Department would like to recognize the significant efforts of all responding personnel in bringing this incident under control quickly and safely.

Media Contact:

Captain Raymond Egan
City of Vancouver Fire Department
Public Information Office

aymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us">Raymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us

Cell: 360-869-3914

Sherwood, Ore. — Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue crews responded this evening to reports of a large barn fire in the 24000 block of SW Labrousse Road in Sherwood.

The fire was reported at 6:32 p.m. by residents at the property, who reported that a large barn was fully involved in fire and threatening nearby structures.

Arriving firefighters found a large metal-clad pole barn with heavy fire venting through the roof and dense smoke coming from multiple openings. Crews quickly determined the building was unsafe to enter and transitioned to a defensive fire attack from the exterior.

Firefighting operations were complicated by the rural location of the property, which does not have access to fire hydrants. All water used to fight the fire had to be transported to the scene by TVF&R water tenders.

Firefighters focused their initial efforts on containing the fire to the building of origin while protecting nearby structures and property. Despite significant fire conditions, crews were successful in preventing the fire from spreading to surrounding buildings.

Additional hazards included ammunition exploding inside the structure, welding equipment within the fire area, and a large propane tank located in close proximity to the burning building. Crews worked carefully around these hazards while continuing defensive suppression operations.

The fire was brought under control at approximately 7:26 p.m. Firefighters remained on scene afterward extinguishing hot spots and completing overhaul operations.

Preliminary findings indicate the fire originated from a chimney fire associated with a wood stove inside the building.

TVF&R recommends that chimneys and wood-burning appliance systems be professionally cleaned and inspected annually to help reduce the risk of chimney fires and related structure fires.

TVF&R was assisted on scene by AMR.

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (7 Nov. 2026) – On Thursday, November 5, 2026, at approximately 10:55 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 20 near milepost 16 in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Harley-Davidson motorcycle, operated by Tracy Allan Formby (59) of Lebanon, was traveling eastbound on Highway 20 near Weirich Drive when it left the roadway for an unknown reason. The motorcycle traveled along the eastbound shoulder before rolling into a fence, causing the operator and passenger to be ejected.

The operator of the motorcycle (Formby) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The passenger, Carrie Rose Lee (41) of Albany, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

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

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

# # #

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

On November 6, 2026, at approximately 8:45 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a single-vehicle collision involving a traffic signal pole. Rescue efforts were made with assistance from Vancouver Fire and AMR, but the driver who was the sole occupant, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Based on the preliminary investigation, the Mercedes was traveling eastbound on NE Padden Parkway at the intersection of NE 94th Avenue when it left the roadway, entered the crosswalk area, and struck a large traffic signal pole.

NE Padden Parkway from Interstate 205 to State Route 503 is expected to closed while investigators process the scene. Drivers are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes to allow first responders to safely complete their work.

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

November 6, 2026

Cases: 24CR58188; 25CR12225; 25CR48019; 26CR32320

Portland, OR - A prolific Portland burglar was sentenced today to 84 months (7 years) in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of Burglary in the First Degree and two counts of Burglary in the Second Degree.

On August 30, 2026, Vaughn Michael Hutchins, 41-years-old, pleaded guilty to breaking into three apartment buildings and seven businesses in the Portland metropolitan area to steal electronics, bicycles, and packages.

Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia – lead of the Multnomah County Burglary Task Force – prosecuted the cases for the State. After sentencing, DDA Garcia said:

"This sentence sends a clear message: People who violate the security of our homes and take advantage of hard-working business owners will be held fully accountable. The Multnomah County Burglary Task Force is committed to ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe spaces to live and work.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Detective Joey Yoo and the Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Response Team – Central Precinct for their hard work and excellent investigation.

THE FACTS:

On June 12, 2024, Hutchins broke into Holm at Sellwood Apartments (SE 6^th Avenue) with a pry bar and stole over $1,000 of property from various residents.

On June 16, 2024, Hutchins broke into Scott Edwards Architecture (E Burnside Street) with a prybar and stole over $4,000 in electronics.

On June 23, 2024, Hutchins broke into Holm at Sellwood Apartments again and stole packages and bicycles from various residents.

On September 8, 2024, Hutchins broke into JET Planning (SE 20^th Avenue) and stole electronics.

On October 1, 2024, Hutchins broke into JET Planning again and stole more property. Video surveillance captured Hutchins dropping multiple items and running from the location once a business alarm was triggered.

On December 7, 2024, Hutchins broke into Community Vision (SE Ladd Avenue) and stole over $8,000 of electronics.

On April 7, 2025, Hutchins broke into Tupelo Alley Apartments (N Mississippi Avenue) and stole packages from various residents.

On April 8 and April 14, 2025, Hutchins broke into Control Voltage and stole over $5,000 of electronics.

On July 1, 2025, Hutchins broke into LoveSac (NW 23^rd Avenue) and stole over $1,000 of electronics.

Each of the above-listed locations sustained significant damage during each incident.

                                                                               ###MCDA###

Vancouver, Wash. – On November 5, 2026, at around 6:00 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to SE 164^th Avenue/SE 29^th Street for the report that a pedestrian had been hit by a vehicle and run over by a second vehicle.  Investigators learned that the first vehicle was traveling northbound on SE 164^th Avenue, through a green light and was mid-intersection when it struck a pedestrian, a 35-year-old male, who was walking westbound through the crosswalk, against the crossing signal. The pedestrian landed on the windshield and hood of the first vehicle, then landed in the roadway, where he was struck by the second vehicle. The driver of the first vehicle stayed at the scene and called 9-1-1. Impairment is not believed to be a factor on the part of the driver of the first vehicle. The second vehicle briefly stopped but then drove away. Investigators are attempting to gather information on that vehicle. The pedestrian was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.

The Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is investigating. Nothing additional is being released at this time.

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The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve August 20, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

    a) Lincoln Ngo; DPSST No. 62528

              Basic Police Certification

4. Shanon Anderson, DPSST No. 61579; Oregon State University DPS

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Leshaun Emile, DPSST No. 61287; Albany Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Carlos Jones, DPSST No. 44434; Eugene Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Patrick Mawdsley, DPSST No. 46428; Portland Police Bureau

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

8. Jeremy Price, DPSST No. 41048; West Linn Police Department

Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

9. Johnnie Ward, DPSST No. 24573; Curry County Sheriff's Office

Presented by Marie Atwood

10. Approval for Changes to the Basic Police Curriculum

Presented by Chris Enquist

11. Basic Police Curriculum, Upcoming Changes to Legal Course Alignment, Informational Only

       Presented by Gerod Rayburn

12. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0085

Codifying Board Approval of the Revisions to the Basic Police Course Subject and Hour Breakdown

Presented by Jennifer Howald

13. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

       Presented by Marie Atwood

14. Agency Updates

15. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – February 18, 2027, at 10:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Police 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.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

Date: November 9, 2026

Time: 6pm

Location: Hockinson Community Center &  Zoom

Address: 15916 NE 182nd Ave  Brush Prairie, WA 98606

The Clark County Board of Health is seeking applicants to fill an unexpired term on the Public Health Advisory Council. The position is for a doctor of veterinary medicine who is working in Clark County. The term for the volunteer position begins as soon as it’s filled and ends Sept. 30, 2027.

Beginning in January, the Public Health Advisory Council will meet 5:30-7:30 pm via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month, except the month of December. One meeting each quarter will be in person at the Clark County Center for Community Health in Vancouver. Members may also join council committees that meet periodically throughout the year depending on committee scope and priorities.

The Public Health Advisory Council reviews priority public health needs and makes periodic recommendations to the Board of Health to enhance community health and wellbeing. The council may provide community forums or establish community task forces, as assigned by the Board of Health. And the council reviews and makes recommendations to Clark County Public Health and the Board of Health for the annual budget and fees.

Clark County Public Health promotes healthy communities and environments, health equity, and disease and injury prevention. With community partners, Public Health works to promote healthier choices; ensure the safety of food and water; reduce environmental waste and contamination; and protect people from disease outbreaks through monitoring, early detection and swift response.
 

Those interested in an appointment to the advisory council should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver 98666-5000. Applications can also be emailed to jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov. For questions about council participation and what to expect as a member, email PHACAdmin@clark.wa.gov.

The application deadline is 5 pm Monday, Nov. 30, 2026.

UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (6 Nov. 2026) – On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at approximately 5:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash on Highway 11 near milepost 33 in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Dodge Dakota, operated by Leslie Franklin King (89) of Milton-Freewater, was traveling northbound on Highway 11 near Appleton Road when it struck a pedestrian, Barbara Jane Freel (79) of Milton-Freewater, who was attempting to cross the highway. The pedestrian was reported to have been wearing dark clothing during low-light conditions.

The pedestrian (Freel) was pronounced deceased at the scene despite life-saving measures performed by bystanders.

The operator of the Dodge (King) and an adult passenger were reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, Milton-Freewater Police Department, Milton-Freewater Rural Fire Department and EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 6, 2026

USAO-OR.gov | @USAO_OR

Warm Springs Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of Two Young Children

PORTLAND, Ore.— U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford announced today that Jesse James Hicks, 34, of Warm Springs, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with aggravated sexual abuse of two young children on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

According to court documents, on Oct. 16, 2026, officers with the Warm Springs Police Department responded to a residence on the Warm Springs Reservation after receiving a report that a man had been found in a bedroom with two young children.

Investigators allege that a family member entered the bedroom and observed Hicks with one of the children under circumstances that raised immediate concern. The witness promptly alerted other family members.

According to court documents, Hicks initially denied wrongdoing but later admitted to unlawful conduct involving one of the children during interviews with federal investigators.

“The allegations in this case are deeply disturbing and involve the exploitation of exceptionally vulnerable victims,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Protecting children from sexual abuse remains one of our highest priorities. We will continue working alongside our Tribal, local, and federal law enforcement partners to investigate these crimes and pursue justice for victims and their families.”

Hicks is charged with aggravated sexual abuse. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Warm Springs Police Department.

The Special Prosecutions Unit for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

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BEND, Ore. - Advanced practice providers (APPs) from across the St. Charles Health System delivered a declaration calling on St. Charles administrators to recognize their union November 6. The declaration marks a major milestone in a years-long effort by Central Oregon healthcare professionals to secure a stronger voice in decisions affecting local healthcare.

The APPs include more than 180 nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and other advanced healthcare professionals working in 30 departments and 25 specialties at every St. Charles hospital and at St. Charles clinics in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Madras and La Pine.

An overwhelming majority of APPs signed the declaration calling for union recognition. If St. Charles refuses to recognize the union, ONA APPs will petition the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to schedule a union election as soon as possible. Under NLRB rules, a simple majority of votes will win union recognition.

APPs are joining the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), which represents nearly 1,500 registered nurses at St. Charles hospitals in Bend, Prineville, and Redmond and at St. Charles home health and hospice along with more than 26,000 frontline healthcare professionals across Oregon.

“As Central Oregon continues to grow, our healthcare workforce has struggled to keep pace. Patients often tell me they’re ‘between providers’ because they lost their primary care provider and can’t find another one or have to wait 6 months to see a specialist,” said Eden Fair, ONA nurse practitioner in general surgery at St. Charles in Bend and Redmond. “We want to work with St. Charles to help recruit and retain the providers our community needs. Adding providers could mean easier scheduling, appointments that don’t feel rushed, and allow more people to stay with the providers they know and trust.”

Central Oregon APPs have been working towards this moment for years, but looming cuts to healthcare from the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” have increased the urgency to take this collective action. Experts estimate nearly 200,000 Oregonians could lose health coverage due to the bill’s Medicaid cuts while hundreds of thousands more could pay higher health insurance costs as tax credits from the Affordable Care Act expire and job-based insurance costs rise.   

“This is crunch time. Federal healthcare costs are going to make it harder for everyone in Central Oregon to get the care they need,” said Beth Ann Orton, ONA physician associate with St. Charles Family Care. “We see the challenges Oregonians are already struggling with. We are their voice inside the healthcare system. We’re eager to partner with St. Charles to bring patients’ and providers’ perspectives into the boardroom so that when big decisions are made about our community’s care, no one is left behind.”   

APPs at St. Charles are the latest in a growing wave of Oregon healthcare professionals who have chosen to join ONA. Over the last 5 years, more than 10,000 frontline health professionals have voted to become ONA union members to raise patient care standards, improve working conditions, and gain a stronger voice in healthcare decisions.

“Healthcare providers are never off the clock. At work, we care for patients from John Day to Christmas Valley. In our free time we’re caring for our friends, family and neighbors,” said Meredith Helfrich, ONA physician associate at a St. Charles urgent care clinic in La Pine. “We see the challenges our community faces and we believe our healthcare system can work better for the people who depend on it. Organizing is how providers can come together to help shape our future. We want a seat at the table to help St. Charles plan for the coming changes and ensure everyone in our community continues to get care they deserve.”    

• Learn more about unions and organizing.

###

Student-Led Initiative Brings Hands-On Money Lessons to Elementary Families and Real-World Budgeting Experiences to High School Juniors

What if learning about money could be as fun as shooting hoops, shopping with play money, or running a pretend household? And what if high school students could help younger students—and their peers—build financial skills that last a lifetime?

That's exactly what's happening at Kelso High School, where DECA and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students are turning a community need into two interactive financial literacy events this November.

The initiative began with a simple question: What financial skills do Kelso families want their children to learn?

Brynn Fitzpatrick, KHS DECA Vice President and FBLA President, took the lead, developing and distributing a survey to Kelso families. The results revealed two clear priorities: parents wanted elementary students introduced to money management at an early age, and they wanted high school students better prepared to navigate the financial realities of adulthood.

Fitzpatrick got to work finding a solution. After researching financial literacy programs, she developed a plan for two events designed to make learning about money engaging, practical, and age-appropriate. With support from fellow DECA and FBLA members and community partner Fibre Federal Credit Union, her vision is becoming reality.

Big Money Lessons for Little Learners
The first event, Future of Finance: Family Financial Literacy Night, invites all K–5 students and their families to a FREE evening of hands-on financial fun on Thursday, November 12.

Twenty KHS DECA and FBLA students will lead 10 interactive activity stations where young learners can explore earning, saving, spending, budgeting, and making smart money choices.

Activities include:

• The Price Is Right...Or Is It? Guess the cost of everyday items and discover the value of a dollar.
• Shop 'Til You Learn! Practice identifying money and making change in a simulated store.
• Needs vs. Wants Basketball Challenge: Shoot hoops while learning to distinguish necessities from extras.
• Budget Boss: Take on the challenge of managing a household budget.
• Moneybunny Story Time: Follow a lovable bunny's adventures while learning about money.
• Debit or Credit? Sort financial scenarios to discover the difference.
• Fibre Federal Youth Savings Station: Explore saving for the future and pick up some fun giveaways.

Students will earn play money for completing activities, then put their newfound financial skills to work shopping at a prize store stocked with items donated by community members.

Families can also capture memories at the Future of Finance photo booth and purchase food and treats from concessions, with proceeds supporting KHS DECA and FBLA programs.

Making Cents of Money
Five days later, the financial lessons get a little more real.

Through a partnership with Fibre Federal Credit Union, KHS 11th graders will participate in Bite of Reality, a hands-on, app-based financial simulation developed by GoWest Credit Union Association.

Each student will receive a fictional adult identity complete with a career, income, and financial responsibilities. Then comes the challenge: make it through a month without breaking the budget.

Students will navigate 10 stations staffed by Fibre Federal volunteers, making decisions about housing, transportation, groceries, clothing, and other everyday expenses. Along the way, they'll discover how quickly unexpected costs can derail even the best financial plans.

Do they really need that expensive car? Can they afford their preferred apartment? What happens when an unexpected bill arrives?

With guidance from volunteers, students will adjust their spending, prioritize needs over wants, and experience the consequences of financial decisions—all without risking a single real dollar.

The goal is to help students build confidence and practical skills before they face these decisions in their own lives.

Student Leadership That Pays Dividends
For Fitzpatrick, the work doesn't stop with these two events. She has also volunteered to teach financial literacy lessons in a fourth-grade classroom at Lexington Elementary, bringing age-appropriate money lessons directly to younger students.

Her initiative reflects the larger mission of KHS DECA and FBLA, whose members select and lead community service projects each year. Students identify needs, develop plans, coordinate resources, and work together to make a meaningful difference.

In this case, they're doing more than teaching financial literacy. They're demonstrating leadership, entrepreneurship, collaboration, and community service while helping the next generation build a stronger financial foundation.

Future of Finance: Family Financial Literacy Night

• When: Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 5–7 p.m.
• Where: Kelso High School Commons
• Who: K–5 students and families
• Cost: FREE admission; concessions available for purchase

Bite of Reality Financial Awareness Event

• When: Tuesday, November 17 during school
• Where: Kelso High School Main Gym
• Who: Kelso High School 11th-grade students

Both events are organized by Kelso High School DECA and FBLA, with support from Fibre Federal Credit Union.

About Kelso School District

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

SALEM, Oregon – Oregon Main Street (OMS) is now accepting applications for organizations to join at the Designated Main Street or the Affiliated Main Street level of the Oregon Main Street Network. This application round is for organizations who demonstrate the readiness and capacity to implement a comprehensive downtown improvement effort based on the nationally recognized Main Street Approach™.

Applications can be found on our website at www.oregonmainstreet under the “How to Join” dropdown. OMS will host a virtual application workshop on November 12th, from 1:00pm to 4:00 pm. The workshop covers some of the requirements to participate at these tiers and provide tips on completing the application. Participants must register in advance click here.

The Designated Main Street level is a mark of distinction that reflects a demonstrated effort to building, growing, and sustaining a main street organization to support efforts to improve a community’s historic downtown by leveraging partnerships and engaging community members. Organizations participating at this level have a high degree of commitment to using the nationally recognized place-based Main Street Approach™ methodology to create lasting impact in enhancing their historic downtowns.

The Affiliated Main Street level is for communities who are either just starting to form, or are working on strengthening their Main Street structure to harness the powerful main street methodology to create lasting impact in enhancing their historic downtown or traditional commercial neighborhood.

Affiliated Main Street and Designated Main Street level communities must have a cohesive core of historic or older commercial and mixed-use buildings that represent the community’s architectural heritage and may include compatible in-fill. They must also have a sufficient mass of businesses, buildings, and density to be effective, as well as be a compact and pedestrian-oriented district.

The primary emphasis of joining at the Affiliated Main Street and Designated Main Street levels is the provided technical assistance from Oregon Main Street to help strengthen revitalization efforts.  Acceptance at these levels allows communities to participate in training, program evaluations, technical assistance, and receive local capacity building support. Participating in the Oregon Main Street program is free.

The selection process included submitting an application that describes their district, previous efforts to improve downtown, readiness to implement the Main Street Approach™, board development efforts, in addition to other criteria. 

Currently, there are more than 100 communities in Oregon participating in one of the four levels of the Oregon Main Street Network: Accredited Main Street, Designated Main Street, Affiliated Main Street, and Connected Communities. The Connected Communities application is the baseline engagement to our program and is open year-round. The OMS Accredited Main Street designation is achieved by attaining Main Street America™ national accreditation status.

Oregon Main Street is part of Oregon Heritage in Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

PORTLAND, Ore. — Members of the media are invited to an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at one of the Pacific Northwest’s most cherished holiday traditions. On Friday, December 4, 2026, at 5:00 a.m., the Christmas Ships Parade fleet will gather near Salty’s on the Columbia River, offering journalists, photographers, and broadcast crews a premium vantage point to capture stunning early-morning visuals and speak directly with the people behind the magic.

This media-only event provides a rare opportunity to shoot high-quality photo and video footage of the brilliantly illuminated fleet against the still dark skies before they take to the water for their scheduled holiday runs.

EVENT DETAILS

• What: Christmas Ships Parade Exclusive Media Event & Skipper Interviews
• When: Friday, December 4, 2026, at 5:00 -6:30a.m. PST
• Where: Salty’s on the Columbia River, 3839 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211
• What’s Provided: Hot coffee and light refreshments will be available to keep crews warm during the early morning shoot.
• RSVP: Please RSVP by Monday, November 30, 2026, to kelly@christmasships.org or 503.539.9804. Include your name, outlet, and the number of attendees (reporters, photographers, and camera crew).

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES

• Visuals: Premium, unobstructed angles of the decorated holiday fleet gathered on the water, ideal for live morning broadcasts, b-roll, and feature photography.
• Interviews: On-site access to the volunteer skippers who donate their time, creativity, and vessels every year to bring holiday cheer to thousands of onlookers along the Columbia and Willamette rivers.

About the Christmas Ships Parade
The Christmas Ships Parade is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that has been lighting up the rivers of the Portland Metro area during the holiday season for decades. The fleet consists of dozens of privately owned watercraft decorated with intricate, festive light displays, bringing communities together along the shoreline each December.