At 3 P.M. Sunday afternoon the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the reports of a structure fire at the 2300 block of SE 106th Ave in Vancouver, just south of Highway 14. Responding units stated that they could see a large column of smoke coming from the reported address from miles away.  First arriving units arrived within 6 minutes and found heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear of the house and stretched hose lines to combat the fire. Once another crew arrived on scene, firefighters connected to a fire hydrant and extended the hose line inside of the home to extinguish the fire, which took approximately 10 minutes. Once inside, fire crews noticed that the fire had burned a large hole through the roof overhead. A total of 16 firefighters and 2 battalion chiefs were on the fire scene. Nobody was home when the fire started and no injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. Unfortunately, one family pet was found in a bedroom deceased. 

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

Lions International Hosts Public Informational Meeting to Launch New Club in Orchards-Evergreen and East Vancouver Area

Vancouver, WA – May 8, 2024—Lions International, a renowned global service organization dedicated to making a difference in communities worldwide, is excited to announce a public informational meeting. This meeting is a crucial step towards addressing the specific needs of the Orchards-Evergreen and East Vancouver area, and we believe your participation is vital. The meeting is scheduled for June 4th, 2024, commencing at 6:30 p.m.

Those who attend will be introduced to Lions International’s mission and values and will explore the potential impact a new club would have on the local area. Attendees will learn about the various service projects and initiatives undertaken by Lions Clubs worldwide and how they can get involved in making a positive difference in their community. This is a unique chance for community members who are passionate about service and making a difference to become charter members of the new club, thereby playing a pivotal role in shaping its future.

"We are excited to engage with the residents of Orchards-Evergreen and East Vancouver and share our vision for a new Lions Club in the area," said Dr. Mark Mansell, Global Membership Team Coordinator, "We believe that by establishing a new Lions Club in the Orchards-Evergreen and East Vancouver area, we can work together to build a stronger, more vibrant community for all."

The public informational meeting will be held at the Cascade Public Library Community Room, 600 NE 136th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684

Date: June 4th, 2024, Time: 6:30 – 7:30 pm

For more information about the meeting or to RSVP, please get in touch with Doug Ballou at 360-903-3993 or dougballou@comcast.net.

RELEASE DATE:                   May 25, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:           On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                    24-21517
 

Gresham, Ore.— A 16-year-old was shot at a classic car show in North Central Gresham. At approximately 3:15 p.m., 911 calls started coming in reporting a shooting in a parking lot in the 1800 block of NW Fairview Dr. Officers quickly responded to the location of the car show which is just a few blocks from the Gresham Police Department.

Upon arriving, officers located the juvenile with an apparent gunshot wound. Officers provided medical care after a bystander began providing initial care and applied a tourniquet. Responding paramedics transported the victim to an area hospital for further treatment. The victim is expected to survive.

Officers collected evidence of the shooting and interviewed witnesses. They are working to determine what led up to the shooting and identify those involved. The parking lot has since been re-opened to the public.

If you have additional information about this case, you are asked to call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719. Gresham Police Department partners with Crimestoppers of Oregon and anyone with information can also submit it through their website at http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or by using their mobile app.

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Oaks Amusement Park has proudly been delighting visitors since 1905!  For generations, “The Oaks” has been a place for families to connect, faces to find smiles, and communities to come together.  119 years of safe, wholesome, family fun is worth celebrating!

Join us from 12 to 7 PM on Saturday, June 1, 2024, for the 119th birthday celebration of the place where "the fun never ends!"

Use the online coupon code to get 20% off Ride Bracelets, plus enjoy free birthday cake and balloons and a visit with Chipper the Squirrel on the midway at 2 PM (while supplies last)!

Coupon Code: 119YEARS

Discount bracelet offer valid online only at oakspark.com/ridetix; no onsite discount.

Salem Multicultural Institute is excited to celebrate Ukraine as the 27^th annual World Beat Festival's featured country. World Beat is one of Salem's premier community traditions, offering a vibrant two-day program of international music, dance, song, theater, food, crafts, customs, rituals, and folklore. This year's festival will begin Friday evening, June 28, and run through Sunday, June 30, at Salem's Riverfront Park.

Kathleen Fish, Executive Director, emphasizes that this is the only festival of its kind honoring the Salem/Keizer community's rich tapestry of cultures. "There are 107 languages spoken in our school district. The festival recognizes and explores the cultures of many of these families."

The festivities kick off Friday, June 28, from 5 to 10 p.m. with "Friday Night at the Beat," featuring vocal performances and fire dancing on the Main Stage. 

The festival opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, with the Children's Parade. Kids who want to participate in the parade will assemble at the Pavilion at the North End of the park. 

Each child who attends will receive a passport at the entrance gate to collect stamps from each World Village. Village tents will feature kid-friendly cultural games and activities. This year's activities include making cherry blossoms in the Asian Pacific Village, Pysanky (traditional egg decorating) in the European Village, Arpilleras (traditional Chilean textile art) in the Americas Village, and crafting Nguni Shields in the Africa & Middle East Village.

Adults can enjoy beverages in the beer garden while listening to live music. Boating enthusiasts can cheer on their favorite teams during the World Beat Dragon Boat Races. 

"We had over 25,000 guests attend last year, enjoying performances on seven stages representing more than 50 different countries and cultures. Our visitors come from all over the Northwest and even Canada," added Fish.

Organized by the volunteer-driven Salem Multicultural Institute, the festival requires 400 volunteers annually to manage setup, stage operations, and cleanup. Volunteers contributing at least four hours receive an event T-shirt and free entry to the festival.

Admission to the festival is $10/1-day pass/adult or $15 for the weekend. Children 0-14, SNAP card holders, and Veterans are free. 

You can view a complete schedule and vendor list or sign up to volunteer at www.worldbeatfestival.org or call (503) 581-2004. 

About the World Beat Festival: The World Beat Festival originated in the late 1990s and was conceived by two young mothers, Mona Hayes and Kathleen Fish, who wanted a space to celebrate cultural heritage. Starting with a small gathering in 1998, the festival has grown into Oregon's largest multicultural event of its kind. www.WorldBeatFestival.org, 503-581-2004.

About the Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI): The vision of the Salem Multicultural Institute and the purpose of the World Beat Festival and World Beat Gallery are to create an environment of openness for all people. In all our activities, SMI aims to be family-friendly, economically inclusive, and culturally authentic. Visit the gallery located at 390 Liberty ST SE, Salem. www.salemmulticultural.org.

On Friday May 17th, 2024, the Sandy Police Department, with the assistance of various law enforcement partners, conducted a child predator sting where police used a variety of social media platforms to pose as underage boys and girls. Several people contacted the undercover investigators online and offered to meet a person they believed to be a child for sex.

Sandy Police arrested Mr. Alexander Ortiz Soto, age 29 of Beaverton. Mr. Ortiz Soto was transported to the Clackamas County Jail where he is being held on charges of Luring a Minor, and Online Sexual Corruption of a Minor in the First Degree.

Following the sting, investigation continued, and on May 24th, The Dalles Police Department arrested Mr. George Leonard Paasch, age 72 of The Dalles. Mr. Paasch was lodged at Northern Oregon Corrections on the charges of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree.

Officers developed probable cause in several other cases and will continue to investigate, with more arrests likely.

The Sandy Police Department would like to thank Milwaukie Police Department, West Linn Police Department, Canby Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and our Federal Law Enforcement partners for their assistance with the sting.

Local law enforcement agencies regularly conduct undercover operations, both full-scale stings and day-to-day chats, targeting child predators. Parents are encouraged to help their children be safe online and to be aware of the websites and mobile applications their kids are using. A resource for starting this difficult, yet important, conversation is available through Thorn, a nonprofit organization that combats child sexual abuse. (https://parents.thorn.org/)

If you know of any potential additional victims of these crimes, please contact the Sandy Police Department tip line at (503) 489-2195.

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Vancouver, Wash. – “On behalf of the Vancouver Police Department I want to say that today the justice process was exercised, as the jury found the defendant guilty of the January 29, 2022, death of Vancouver Police Officer Donald Sahota”, said Vancouver Police Chief Jeff Mori. “It has been a long, emotional wait for the family and friends of Donald Sahota and while we are grateful for this verdict, the pain and tragedy of Don’s death remains. Don was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend who will always be missed and never forgotten”. 

The Vancouver Police Department would like to express our sincere thanks to the individuals who served on this jury; for their time, attention, and commitment in taking on this important role that is a critical foundation of our justice system. The department also thanks the Clark County Prosecutors for their work and dedication to seeking long-awaited justice for Don and his family and friends. 

Today’s verdict provides the first step toward healing the pain, grief, sadness and loss for the Sahota family, the VPD family and the community. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Vancouver Police Department, is continuing the Independent Investigation of the officer-involved use of force incident involving deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office on April 13, 2024, at the American Legion located at 14011 NE 20th Avenue.

Detectives are finalizing their reports. Once the investigation is completed, it will be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. 

Additional information will be released as it is available and will be sent out in a media release.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet for a field tour on Wednesday, June 5, and a public meeting on Thursday, June 6, in Troutdale, Oregon. The field tour will be open to the public for in-person participation and recordings of the tour’s highlights will be posted on the board’s meeting page after. The meeting will be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda for June 6 includes:

• Forest protection association budgets 
• Vision for Oregon’s Forests
• Advancing wildfire prevention
• Wildfire hazard map and procedural rules
• Jefferson County forest patrol assessment appeals
• Western Oregon State Forests Forest Management Plan draft
• Oregon State University’s College of Forestry report

On Wednesday, the tour starts at 8 a.m. in the McMenamins Edgefield located at 2126 SW Halsey St., Troutdale, OR 97060, in the west parking lot. Members of the public wishing to join the tour are asked to RSVP by emailing oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov by end of day, Friday, May 31. Those attending the tour should bring their own lunch and PPE gear, including hardhat, reflective vest, and appropriate footwear. The field tour will highlight the 20-Year Resiliency Strategy, the Federal Forests Restoration Program and provide an opportunity to view an active timber sale.

On Thursday, the meeting will be held at 8 a.m. in the McMenamins Edgefield, Blackberry Hall, 2126 SW Halsey St., Troutdale, OR 97060.

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage. Live testimony, both in person and virtual, is available on the second day. Sign-up for live testimony is required as spots are limited. Written public testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov with the appropriate agenda item and topic included with the submission. Tips for providing testimony to the board are available online.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

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

Portland, Ore. – On May 24, fire restrictions will go into effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as warmer, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest. 

These fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. Starting May 24, the use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns will be prohibited. 

“Although we had a wet winter, we must still be careful with activities that can cause a spark,” said Anita Bilbao, BLM Oregon/Washington Associate State Director. 

Wet weather supports the growth of invasive grasses, which then dry out quickly in the summer months.
 

“Everyone can help to keep our first responders, local communities, and public lands safe by following fire restrictions and practicing fire safety while out on public lands,” she continued.
 

Those who violate the prohibition may be fined up to $100,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 12 months. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression. 
For the complete order and more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

May is also ‘Wildfire Awareness Month’. Visit NIFC.GOV for wildfire prevention tips: https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/fire-prevention-education-mitigation/wildfire-prevention. 

To learn more about fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, please see https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/state-info/oregon-washington/careers.

This Press Release is also available on: https://www.blm.gov/press-release/fire-restrictions-protect-pacific-northwest-communities-blm-announces. 

-BLM-

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is seeking applicants to fill three mid-term positions on the Salary Review Commission. Applications must be submitted on or before June 7.

This seven-member volunteer commission reviews the salaries and duties of the mayor and city council members to establish their salary and compensation. The Salary Review Commission meets every two years ahead of the biennial budget process. This recruitment is for three mid-term positions: one with a term ending Feb. 24, 2025, one with a term ending Dec. 31, 2025, and one with a term ending Dec. 31, 2026. 

Qualifying applicants must live within the Vancouver city limits and be registered voters. City officers, employees, their immediate family and those who have previously served on the Salary Review Commission are not eligible to apply. Applicants must also be available for a phone or virtual interview with Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle.

Applications may be submitted online at www.cityofvancouver.us/boards. For a printed application or further information contact the boards and commissions coordinator at Vancouver City Hall, 415 W. Sixth St., P.O. Box 1995, Vancouver, WA 98668-1995, by phone at 360-487-8600 or email c_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us">bc_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us.

Visit https://www.cityofvancouver.us/government/boards-commissions/ to learn more about the City’s advisory boards and commissions. 

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GRESHAM, Ore. – The City of Gresham is pleased to announce that Measure 26-247, the Fire and Police Levy has passed in the May 21 special election. This historic decision by voters brings critical relief to the City’s first responders by not only retaining existing public safety personnel but adding new positions to the Gresham Fire Department and the Gresham Police Department. 

“We are extremely grateful for the support of our community,” said Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall. “This levy is a tremendous first step in providing the resources our first responders sorely need and to work towards the safe community Gresham deserves.”

• This five-year operating levy will fund 13 new firefighters, 9 new sworn police officers and retain an annual average of 30 first responder positions.

The levy's funds will be placed in a dedicated and protected account overseen by a seven-member voluntary committee comprised of Gresham residents. The committee will make regular reports to City Council and oversee an annual audit.

Over the coming weeks, the City of Gresham will finalize the plans for the levy's implementation and looks forward to sharing these next steps with the community soon. 

We acknowledge that many voters did not support the recent levy and understand the financial commitment it entails.  The City of Gresham is committed to demonstrating accountability, integrity and transparency as we build trust and strive to make our community better than ever.

For more information, please visit GreshamOregon.gov.

About Gresham:

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham.

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CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in Conference Room A235 at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258 or .howald@dpsst.oregon.gov">jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Agenda Items 

1.     Introductions

2.     Administrative Closure Criteria

Carried over from May 6, 2024

3.     Policy Committee Case Review Processes

Carried over from May 6, 2024

4.     Applicant Review Committee

5.     Follow-up on Pending Action Items or Discussions from Past Meetings

6.     Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting is being streamed live on the DPSST YouTube page and will be recorded in the form of minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. Please be mindful of comments and side conversations.

Today, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Eric Dahlin sentenced Phillip Lawrence Nelson, 42, to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 35 years for the 2020 fatal stabbings of Najaf “Nate” Hobbs and Cassy Leaton. The sentence follows an April 26th verdict where a jury found Nelson guilty of one count of Murder in the Second Degree (victim Cassy Leaton) and one count of Manslaughter in the First Degree (victim Najaf Hobbs). Judge Dahlin imposed a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 25 years for the murder of Ms. Leaton and a consecutive 10-year sentence for the murder of Mr. Hobbs, meaning Nelson will be eligible for consideration of parole after 35 years. 

MCDA recognizes the families of both of the victims and hopes that today’s sentencing allows for some closure and for the healing process to continue. MCDA would also like to thank the PPB officers and detectives who worked this case, in particular Detective Rico Beniga. 

Nelson is currently in custody in Multnomah County and will be transported to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

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Original Message (4/29/2024)
 

Jury Finds Phillip Nelson Guilty of 2020 Double Homicide

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a Multnomah County jury delivered a guilty verdict for Phillip Lawrence Nelson, 42, for the 2020 fatal stabbing of two people in Northeast Portland.  

Incident

On June 16, 2020, at 3:44 p.m., Portland Police officers responded to a report of a stabbing in the 1400 block of Northeast Davis Street. Officers arrived and located two victims – Najaf “Nate” Hobbs, who died at the scene, and Cassy Leaton, who later died at the hospital. The suspect – later identified as Phillip Lawrence Nelson – had fled the scene before officers arrived.

On June 18, 2020, PPB located and arrested Nelson. He was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center, where he has been held ever since. 

Trial & Verdict

The trial took place in front of Judge Eric Dahlin from April 8-26, with Deputy District Attorney Rachna Hajari and Senior Deputy District Attorney Amanda Nadell as prosecutors. The 12-person jury delivered the verdict on April 26, finding Nelson guilty of:

• One count of Murder in the Second Degree (victim Cassy Leaton)
• One count of Manslaughter in the First Degree (victim Najaf Hobbs) 

Sentencing is scheduled for May 24 at 9 a.m. in front of Judge Dahlin. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office thanks the Portland Police Bureau for their assistance with this case.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works, Parks and Lands invites the community to celebrate the newest neighborhood park developed, Kozy Kamp Neighborhood Park, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 6. The “Party in the Park” will include lawn games, activities and sweet treats. Attendees can also chat with staff about another new park coming to the Mt. Vista neighborhood. Attendees should note that there is no parking on Northeast 175th Street. 

The park is approximately five acres in size. During the design process in 2009, residents helped guide the selection of the park’s features and name. The completed park includes two play areas, accessible paved trails, picnic areas, open space, a sport court and a wetland. The park is part of the Greater Clark Parks District, supported by a 2005 voter-approved levy. 

More information about the park is available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/kozy-kamp-neighborhood-park. Residents can contact the project manager, Lynde Wallick, by emailing lynde.wallic@clark.wa.gov or calling 564.397.5882 for more information about the event, to request interpretation or accommodations. 

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. 

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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DATE: Tuesday, May 28, 2024

TIME: 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center & via Zoom (link on website)

ADDRESS: 15916 NE 159th St, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

May 24, 2024

Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA kicks off 2024 Oregon beach monitoring season

Agency shares list of monitored beaches for May-September

PORTLAND, Ore.—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2024 beach monitoring season by announcing the list of coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The 24 beaches on the list that the OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Public Health Division, is publishing includes some of the most frequently visited beaches in Oregon. It also includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution concerns.

The following are Oregon beaches being monitored during 2024, including beach name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

Beach monitoring season runs from mid-May to mid-September. Beach advisories are only issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in the next beach monitoring season.

OBMP works with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to identify beaches that need monitoring based on several established criteria. These criteria include: pollution hazards present; previous beach monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.

As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health. A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at each.Health@odhsoha.oregon.gov">Beach.Health@odhsoha.oregon.gov or 971-673-0400.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 05/28/24 

MAY 28, 2024, 6:30PM 

Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Work Session of the Board Will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/86346138790 Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

The winners, along with four runners-up, will also have donations made to their schools.

PORTLAND, Ore., May 24, 2024—OnPoint Community Credit Union has announced the four winners of the 2024 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards: 

• K-5 Educator of the Year: Rachel Hertz, 1st grade teacher at North Star Elementary School in Bend, Ore.
• 6-8 Educator of the Year: Sherry Reeder, 6th – 8th grade special education teacher at Molalla River Middle School in Molalla, Ore.
• 9-12 Educator of the Year: Michelle Colbert, 9th – 12th grade art and career technical education teacher at Fir Ridge Campus in Portland, Ore.
• Gold Star Educator of the Year: Dr. Traniece Brown-Warrens, principal at Markham Elementary School in Portland, Ore.

The four Educators of the Year will have their mortgage or rent paid for one year and receive $2,500 for each of their schools. In addition, the four runners-up will receive $5,000 for themselves and $1,500 for each of their schools. 

“Our Educators of the Year Awards recognize the remarkable educators whose dedication impacts their students and community every day,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This year’s winners and runners-up use their amazing creativity and innovation to inspire students. As we celebrate the 15th year of these awards, we are honored to recognize and support the educators who go above and beyond to teach and lead our youth."

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $843,000 in prizes to 326 local educators and schools since 2010. The 2024 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving public and private K-12 educators and schools.

2024 Educators of the Year

The four winners of the 2024 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards are:

K-5 Educator of the Year – Rachel Hertz

1st grade, North Star Elementary School, Bend, Ore.

Rachel Hertz has spent her 20-year career as a teacher working to give her students a sense of belonging. Her philosophy as an educator is simple: there is always something new to learn, to experience and to better inform how she teaches. When we stop learning, Hertz says, we stop growing. 

A proud representative of her Bolivian and Mexican heritage, Hertz ensures her classroom celebrates every student’s background. She encourages students to share their cultures and traditions and uses culturally relevant materials to enhance their learning experience. 

She integrates social-emotional learning into her curriculum to foster a supportive space where students excel academically and develop resilience. She is analytical and data driven, researching teaching methodologies that are measurable and constantly checking in to ensure each student comprehends her lessons. She also sends books home and provides families with access to educational applications to support learning outside the classroom. 

Her initiatives extend beyond traditional teaching methods. Hertz hosted a team-building event for school staff, led a Lego Club to build rapport with students after school and initiated an annual Kindness Carnival to promote positive community values. She is frequently on hiring committees for new North Star Elementary staff (most recently for a new principal) and also supports future teachers through her work with Oregon State University Cascades and Western Oregon University.

6–8 Educator of the Year – Sherry Reeder

6th – 8th grade Special Education, Molalla River Middle School, Molalla, Ore.

Special education teacher Sherry Reeder understands students are more than just recipients of knowledge - they want to be active participants in their educational journey. Her student-centered approach means creating an environment in her classroom where students feel empowered. 

Reeder's impact extends across the school. She worked with the administration to conduct focus groups that helped identify the causes of low satisfaction scores among students. This led to the implementation of "brain breaks" to help reduce student anxiety and stress. She is also helping to make elective classes accessible for English Language Development students and those with additional needs.

Reeder also helps mentor new special education staff members, coordinates Instructional Assistants schedules, and provides support staff development. She even organizes offsite staff events to help build connection among her colleagues.

Reeder serves as the assistant coach for the Unified basketball and kickball teams (which give students with disabilities equal access to these sports), plans summer programs, and organizes student awards nights. She also developed the "Academic Leadership Award" to ensure special education students are celebrated alongside their peers.

9-12 Educator of the Year – Michelle Colbert

9th – 12th grade Art and Career Technical Education, Fir Ridge Campus, Portland, Ore.

For Michelle Colbert, art can be a powerful tool to empower youth and allow them to amplify their voices, express themselves and do so in a setting where they feel comfortable. Colbert strives for that every day, whether she is teaching art or career and technical education (CTE) at Fir Ridge Campus. 

When her students returned to in-person learning after the pandemic, she challenged them to express how they were impacted. The result was mixed media self-portraits that gave Colbert an important glimpse into that period of their lives. In her industrial arts class, Colbert leads students through the process of manufacturing skateboards – from designing to adding graphics, grip tape, trucks and wheels. The end result is not just a skateboard but a boost in confidence and skills.

Michelle extends learning beyond the classroom through partnerships and community projects. She collaborates with Nike’s Inventors Club and local professionals via the School to Work program to connect her students with professionals in various careers. Her notable "Our Space of Possibilities" project involved students in public art, including designing a Trimet bus wrap and creating an Afrofuturism-themed art installation. Michelle also leads the Art and AV clubs, organizes the annual Fir Ridge Art Showcase and spearheaded the first Career and Technical Education Pathways Program. 

Gold Star Educator of the Year – Dr. Traniece Brown-Warrens

Principal, Markham Elementary School, Portland, Ore.

In January 2024, an ice storm left Markham Elementary School inoperable. Principal Traniece Brown-Warrens immediately jumped in to ensure as little disruption as possible. She worked with four other schools to “host” students by crafting new bus schedules and ensuring every student received support through carefully scheduled classes and counseling. Even though students could not be at Markham, Brown-Warrens made sure Markham was always with them by sending a daily newsletter called the “Energy Bus News.” 

Since becoming principal in 2022, Brown-Warrens’ impact on Markam can be felt just about everywhere. She introduced calming corners in each classroom to help students self-regulate their emotions. She implemented a "What I Need" (WIN) initiative for students to dedicate 30 minutes each day to address individual learning and emotional needs – which led to increased state assessment scores in math, English, and students’ feeling of belonging. 

To spark a renewed enthusiasm for literacy, Brown Warrens introduced a book vending machine and spearheaded the "Markham Reads a Million Minutes" read-a-thon, raising funds for the PTA and boosting reading proficiency. She also helped establish new student groups such as the Black Excellence Club, the Asian Pacific Islander Club and the Leadership Club.

She hosted a "TEDxMarkham" event to provide students a platform to share their voices and inspire others. She uses media platforms like YouTube to send inspirational messages to her entire student body and, quite often, to single out individual students for their accomplishments or to wish them luck. 

2024 Educator of the Year Runners-up

OnPoint will also award a $5,000 cash prize to each of the following 2024 runners-up and make a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K–5 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Roxana Campbell

1st grade, HOLLA School, Portland, Ore.

6–8 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Lynda Beauchamp 

6th and 7th grade Math, Realms Middle School, Bend, Ore.

9-12 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Andrew Gunsul

9th and 10th grade Social Studies, Sunset High School, Portland, Ore.  

Gold Star Educator of the Year Runner-up – Martine Barnett 

Principal, Columbia City Elementary, Columbia City, Ore. 

Five Schools Receive Community Builder Awards 

The 2024 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also awarded one Oregon school $5,000 and four Oregon schools $2,000 in Community Builder grants for special projects that enrich their communities. Click here to read about this year's winners, which OnPoint announced on May 8, 2024.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Click here to learn more.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 554,000 members and with assets of $9.0 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee will meet in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State Street in Salem on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 10 a.m. A virtual option will be available via Zoom video conference, which can be found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please contact istine.r.klossen@odf.oregon.gov">Kristine Klossen at 971-446-0065.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Financial status of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
• Weather update
• Update on status of large fire cost collection efforts
• Guidelines for eligibility of firefighting costs
• Administrative Branch/Fire Protection Division/Administrator reports

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting by contacting istine.r.klossen@odf.oregon.gov">Kristine Klossen at 971-446-0065.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of equalizing emergency fire suppression costs among the various Oregon Department of Forestry protection districts and forest protective associations. All districts/associations contribute to the fund so that money will be available to any individual district/association to pay fire suppression costs on eligible emergency fires. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

The 142nd Wing out of Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Oregon will conduct Memorial Day flyovers for ceremonies at locations throughout northwest Oregon and southwest Washington.

“We support the Memorial Day flyovers to honor the great men and women who have given their all in defense of this great nation,” said Lt. Col. Brad Young, 142^nd Wing instructor pilot and 142^nd Operations Support Squadron Commander. “We hope that conducting the requested flyovers from community organizations is additive to their ceremonies commemorating those who have lost their lives in service to this nation.”

The F-15 Eagle fighter jets are scheduled to conduct flyovers at the following community locations at, or around, the designated times on Monday, 27 May: 

10:25 a.m. Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Ore.          

10:38 a.m. Wasco, Ore.         

10:51 a.m. Forest Lawn Cemetery, Gresham, Ore.          

10:53 a.m. Glenmoore Gracious Living, Happy Valley, Ore.          

10:54 a.m. Mt. View Cemetery, Oregon City, Ore.          

10:57 a.m. Calvary Cemetery, Mount Angel, Ore.  

11:00 a.m. World War II Memorial, Salem, Ore.                 

11:01 a.m. Restlawn Memory Garden & Funeral Home, Salem, Ore.                     

11:03 a.m. Timber Linn Memorial Park, Albany, Ore. 

11:05 a.m. Corvalis, Ore.

11:15 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park, Beaverton, Ore.

11:16 a.m. Fir Lawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Hillsboro, Ore.

11:17 a.m. Forest View Cemetery, Forest Grove, Ore.

11:17 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park, North Plains, Ore.

11:21 a.m. Vancouver National Historic Reserve, Vancouver, Wash.

11:38 a.m. Depoe Bay, Ore.

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and about 400 mph airspeed. Flights could be canceled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

-30-

Aerial b-roll: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/752272/142nd-wing-f-15-flight-gopro-footage

About the 142nd Wing:

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1,500 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $500 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 through their Aerospace Control Alert mission 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:

Oregon Air National Guard F-15C Eagles, assigned to the 142nd Fighter Wing prepare for an afternoon training mission as part of dissimilar aircraft combat training (DACT) on Aug. 13, 2019, at the Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore. The Oregon Airmen are training with U.S. Navy F-18F Super Hornet from VFA-41 squadron, based out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., during two-weeks of DACT exercises. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon State Fire Marshal are convening a workgroup to discuss solutions for sustainable wildfire mitigation and suppression funding to address the growing wildfire crisis.

The Legislature tasked the two agencies with establishing the workgroup through House Bill 5701 in the 2024 legislative session. The group is meeting for the first time in June.

The need for a sustainable and equitable funding structure for wildfire response and mitigation has never been more urgent. The way response and mitigation are currently funded is inadequate to address the growing complexity and cost of wildfires Oregon faces today, which impacts public health and safety, community well-being, and the state's economy.

Workgroup members represent a wide range of partners and will work closely with the Governor’s Wildfire Programs Advisory Council.

Workgroup members include:
• Alan von Borstel, Oregon Wheat Growers League
• Anne-Marie Storms, Oregon Fire Marshals Association
• Armando Martinez, Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw
• Barry Bushue, Bureau of Land Management
• Bill Boos, Special Districts Association of Oregon
• Bill Terry, Consumers Power Inc.
• Branden Pursinger, Association of Oregon Counties
• Brennan Garrelts, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Emergency Fire Cost Committee
• Brian Stewart, Oregon Fire Chiefs Association
• Carrie Nyssen, American Lung Association
• Casey Kulla, Oregon Wild
• Chris Edwards, Oregon Forest Industries Council
• Dylan Kruse, Sustainable Northwest
• Eric Kranzush, Giustina Land & Timber Co.
• Frank Day, Oregon Volunteer Firefighters Association
• Genoa Ingram, Oregon Fire District Directors Association
• Lauren Poor, Oregon Farm Bureau
• James Hall, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
• Jim McCauley, League of Oregon Cities
• John Davis, Green Diamond
• Jonathan Fink, Portland State University
• Karl Koenig, Oregon State Fire Fighters Council
• Kenton Brine, NW Insurance
• Kyle Smith, The Nature Conservancy of Oregon
• Lon Matheny, Coquille Indian Tribe
• Mari Kramer, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
• Mark Bennett, Wildfire Programs Advisory Council
• Matt McElligott, Cattlemen's Association
• Monte Bryan, Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians
• Patrick Skrip, Operating Forest Protective Association
• Roger Beyer, Oregon Small Woodlands Association
• Scott Spaulding, Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation
• Steve Warden, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
• Suzanne Seattle, Burns Paiute Tribe
• Tim Sexton, Klamath Tribes

Ex-officio attendees include:
• Andrew Stolfi, Department of Consumer & Business Services, Division of Financial Regulation
• Doug Denning, Higher Education Coordinating Council
• Jim Kelly, Oregon Board of Forestry
• Michael Grant, Public Utilities Commission
• Representative Bobby Levy, Oregon State Legislature
• Representative John Lively, Oregon State Legislature
• Senator Fred Girod, Oregon State Legislature
• Senator Jeff Golden, Oregon State Legislature

The agencies will report on the group’s progress to the Emergency Board in December and during the 2025 legislative session. People will be able to view the workgroup meetings virtually. Details will be provided on both the ODF’s and the OSFM’s websites before each meeting.

Learn more about the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon State Fire Marshal and their efforts to meet the rising challenges of wildfire.

Eugene, OR– Today, Governor Tina Kotek, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Agency Director Fariborz Pakseresht, and Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner entered into a settlement agreement with Disability Rights Oregon, A Better Childhood, Rizzo Bosworth Eraut PC, and Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, attorneys representing thousands of children and young adults experiencing foster care in Oregon. This settlement agreement stemmed from a class-action lawsuit, Wyatt B. et al. v. Kotek et al., that sought to improve Oregon’s foster care system. 

The settlement agreement stipulates, in part:

• The State will contract with a mutually agreed upon Neutral Expert to address important foster care system outcome areas including maltreatment of children; quality of appropriate placements; re-entry rates; timeliness of case planning and age-appropriate mental, physical and dental health care assessments and referrals; notification and delivery of required reports of child maltreatment; and up to two (2) additional findings by the Neutral Expert within two (2) years that are actionable under the U.S. Constitution or Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
   
• The Neutral Expert’s Initial Review shall occur by April 20, 2025 (extendable up to 90 days at request of Neutral Expert) and be followed by annual reviews assessing improvements.
   
• The Governor shall provide support to ODHS toward its efforts to achieve outcomes by assisting ODHS’s collaboration with other state agencies and by reviewing the Initial Review and annual reviews.
   
• The Settlement Agreement ends when the Neutral Expert determines ODHS is in substantial compliance with terms or within 10 years (whichever is sooner). If, after 10 years, the Neutral Expert determines additional time is needed, the Neutral Expert may recommend an extension of no more than two (2) years.

“This case has always been about providing children in the foster care system what they need to recover from trauma and thrive—stability, safety, and nurturing from the adults in their life,” said Jake Cornett, Executive Director and CEO of Disability Rights Oregon. “After more than five years, we’re grateful Governor Kotek and the Department of Human Services see the promise of working collectively to improve Oregon’s foster care system.”

“We are grateful for the willingness of all involved in this litigation to come together to find ways to achieve our mutual goal of improving outcomes for Oregon children and families,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “This agreement is a testament to the progress we have made in child welfare over the past several years and allows us to focus on the important work ahead.”

“We are very pleased that this case has settled,” said Marcia Lowry, Executive Director of A Better Childhood. “We have seen that a collaborative approach to reform in other lawsuits has produced excellent results in other child welfare systems, and we hope the same will happen in Oregon. It takes both sides being committed to actual progress, measurable outcomes, and real results, which we are committed to seeing happen in Oregon.” 

“This settlement gives us the opportunity to continue our efforts to transform the child welfare system by supporting and preserving families – while focusing on continuous improvements that will yield better outcomes for families we serve,” said ODHS Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner. “We appreciate the hard work by both parties in reaching an agreement that is positive for Oregon children and families.”

Resources

• Settlement Agreement

###

Oregon Department of Human Services(ODHS) is Oregon's principal agency for helping Oregonians achieve well-being and independence. It provides direct services to more than 1 million Oregonians each year. These services are a key safety net for people in diverse communities across Oregon.

Disability Rights Oregon upholds the civil rights of people with disabilities to live, work, and engage in the community. Serving as Oregon’s Protection & Advocacy system since 1977, the nonprofit works to transform systems, policies, and practices to give more people the opportunity to reach their full potential.

A Better Childhood is a national nonprofit advocacy organization that uses the courts to reform dysfunctional child welfare systems around the country. 

Rizzo Bosworth Eraut PC is a litigation firm with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. We work primarily on complex civil matters representing individuals, businesses, and insurers in Oregon, Washington, California, and Idaho.

Davis Wright Tremaine LLP is an AmLaw 100 law firm with more than 600 lawyers representing clients based throughout the United States and around the world.

May 24, 2024-REDMOND,OR- Effective June 1, 2024, Redmond Fire & Rescue will close all outdoor debris burning for the season, until further notice. During this closure, all outdoor debris burning is prohibited in all areas served by Redmond Fire & Rescue in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.

As a reminder, the closure of outdoor debris burning prohibits all of the following:

1. Backyard or open burning (branches, yard debris, etc.).

2. Agricultural burning (agricultural wastes, crops, field burning, ditches etc.).

3. Any other land clearing, slash, stump, waste, debris or controlled burning.

The burn ban does not prohibit:

1. Small outdoor cooking, warming or recreational fires at residential properties. These include portable or permanent fire pits, fire tables, and campfires, with a maximum fuel area of three feet in diameter and two feet in height in a safe location away from combustibles or vegetation and are fully extinguished after use.

2. Barbeque grills, smokers and similar cooking appliances with clean, dry firewood, briquettes, wood chips, pellets, propane, natural gas, or similar fuels.

There may be more restrictive fire safety rules on Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF)-protected land. ODF restrictions may include prohibitions on campfires, smoking, target shooting, powered equipment, motorized vehicles, and other public/private landowner and industrial fire restrictions. More details about ODF fire restrictions are available at Oregon Department of Forestry Public Fire Restrictions.

Outdoor fires in violation of this closure may be immediately extinguished. If a fire agency responds to a fire that has been started in willful violation of this closure, the person responsible may be liable for all costs incurred, as well as legal fees per ORS 478.965. Burning restrictions are authorized under Oregon Revised Statute 478.960, Oregon Fire Code 307 and Redmond Fire & Rescue Ordinance 5.

Fire Officials in Deschutes County encourage the public to use extreme caution with activities that could start a fire. It is everyone’s responsibility to prevent and be prepared for wildfires. Residents are encouraged to continue exercising caution and taking steps to prevent and prepare for the threat of wildfires. That includes:

Creating defensible space:

• Mowing and watering lawns.

• Removing brush, dry grass, and leaves from underneath decks and crawlspaces.

• De-limbing tree branches 10 feet off the ground and well away from your roof.

• Planting low-growing, fire-resistant plants near your home.

• Eliminating fuel sources near and around your home – firewood, fuel tanks, etc.

Maintaining access:

• The road or driveway to your home should be clear of all debris, dense vegetation, and low-hanging branches. Turn-out areas are needed if the road or driveway to your home is not large enough for two-way traffic or your home is located at the end of a long driveway or dead-end road.

• The driveway to your home should be designed without sharp curves or steep grades.

• If crossing a bridge is necessary to access your home, it should support 75,000 pounds.

Signing up for Alerts:

To make sure you are receiving the most current alerts regarding Emergency Evacuations (Fire, Flooding, Public Welfare, etc.), Natural Disasters (Fire, Flooding, etc.), Severe Weather or Neighborhood Emergencies, you can sign up for Deschutes Alerts.

On March 28, 2024, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit initiated an investigation based on a report of an adult photographing a child in an inappropriate manner at a daycare center in the Salmon Creek area. Jamil Holbrook (23), of Oregon City, OR, was identified as the suspect. The daycare center has been entirely cooperative with law enforcement, and the victims related to the daycare center have been identified. 

On May 23, 2024, investigators arrested Jamil Holbrook on a warrant for Child Molestation in the first degree, Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct in the first degree, and Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct in the second degree. 

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit is investigating this case. So far, the investigation has uncovered numerous unidentified victims. CCSO requests assistance from the public to identify potential additional victims in this case. Jamil Holbrook is believed to be a babysitter who has worked with numerous families throughout the Portland-Metropolitan area. 

If you or someone you know has ever received childcare services provided by Jamil Holbrook, or if you have any additional information that may be relevant to this investigation, please contact the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit tipline at (564) 397-2847, or email the Special Victims Unit supervisor, Detective Sergeant Jayson Camp, at jayson.camp@clark.wa.gov. CCSO Case #24002591.

In May of 2022, the Vancouver Police Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit detectives initiated an investigation into Daniel B. Gray. That investigation was based on a series of reports by Gray’s family members and their friends, who alleged he had been sexually abusing young girls in his care for decades and photographing his victims. Detectives believed the reports were credible, but the statute of limitations to criminally charge Gray had expired. The detail and breadth of the statements, however, indicated a much deeper pattern of predatory sexual behavior than could be constrained by the narrow chronology of the initially reported abuse. Investigators began seeking additional information and evidence from within Gray’s circle of family members and associates – many of whom were understandably reluctant to speak with police.

Through a series of interviews over the course of almost a year, DECU detectives identified a series of much younger girls who had been in contact with Gray. One provided a forensic interview detailing a series of contemporary rapes and sexual assaults. Follow-up investigation rendered probable cause to arrest Gray for two counts of Child Molestation in the first degree and two counts Rape of a Child in the first degree.

Given Gray’s status as transient, law enforcement was initially unable to locate him, and a federal warrant was issued for his arrest. In April of 2024, the US Marshals Service Violent Offender Task Force and DECU investigators located and arrested Daniel Gray in Portland. Detectives learned the address where Gray had been staying. A warrant was served there the following day. Detectives located dozens of digital devices, multiple cameras (which Gray had used in his “child modeling” photography career), and reems of amateurish sexual drawings (also of children). Based on an initial screening of his digital devices, detectives rapidly developed probable cause to charge Gray with additional child sexual abuse crimes. On May 22, 2024, Gray was arrested on the newly developed charges. Gray’s digital devices are still under forensic examination.

Final charges for which Gray is awaiting trial:

• 2x counts Rape of a child in the first degree
• 2x counts Child molestation in the first degree
• Dealing in depictions of minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
• 3x counts Possession of Depictions of Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct in the First Degree,
• Possession of Depictions of Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct in the Second Degree

If you have information helpful to police regarding Daniel Gray please contact Detective Dewey at james.dewey@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7446.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Vancouver Police Department, of the officer involved shooting that occurred on February 20, 2024, involving deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, has been completed. 

Case files have been forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. 

There will be no further updates from the SWIIRT regarding this investigation. 

###

LINN, MARION, & DOUGLAS COUNTIES, Ore. 23 May 2024 – Four Oregon State Police traffic stops along Interstate 5 (I-5) have yielded significant drug seizures in the last month. Oregon State Troopers seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, PCP, and other illegal drugs bound for Oregon streets. The targeted operations are a collaboration among Oregon State Police patrol, K-9, HIDTA Investigation Team (HIT), and Criminal Apprehension through Patrol Enforcement (CAPE) programs. 

OSP Capt. Kyle Kennedy said, “Oregon State Police is diligently working to stop the flow of illegal drugs to our communities. Fentanyl continues to have devasting effects on Oregon’s communities, and we hope the constant pressure will deter and prevent the transportation of illegal drugs to and through our state.” 

Linn County
On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 9:50 a.m., an OSP K-9 trooper stopped a vehicle on I-5 in Linn County for a traffic violation. During contact with the driver, the trooper suspected possible criminal activity. A K-9 was deployed around the outside of the vehicle and alerted to the presence of illegal substances. 

During a search of the vehicle, the trooper located 10,000 pills suspected to be laced with fentanyl in the vehicle’s trunk. 

OSP detectives interviewed the vehicle occupants. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available for release at this time. 

Marion County
On May 14, 2024, at 1:13 p.m., an Oregon State Trooper from the Salem Patrol Office stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 near milepost 256 in Marion County. During the stop, the trooper observed contraband in the vehicle and suspicious behavior by the vehicle occupants. 

During a consent search of the vehicle, the trooper located 4.6 pounds of fentanyl, 1 pound of phenylcyclohexyl piperidine (PCP), 84 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and 14.2 grams of cocaine. 

The driver, Edgar Izaguirre Torres (33), whose city of residence is unknown, and the passenger, Marvin Fabian Oseguera Escoto (19) or Auburn (WA), were arrested for distribution of a controlled substance. Once the investigation is complete, additional charges will be referred to the prosecuting agency. 

Oseguera Escoto was additionally arrested on a California warrant for distribution of a controlled substance. 

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

Douglas County
On May 21, 2024, at 8:40 a.m., an OSP K-9 Trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 northbound at milepost 148. The trooper contacted the vehicle occupants and noticed signs of criminal activity. The driver and passenger fled from the vehicle on foot. The trooper caught and detained both suspects a short distance from the vehicle. 

The K-9 was deployed around the outside of the vehicle and alerted to the presence of illegal substances. A search warrant was granted, and 42,000 suspected fentanyl-laced pills and approximately 8 pounds of fentanyl powder were found inside the vehicle. 

The driver, Lauro Parra Moreno (25) of Pittsburgh (CA), was arrested for misdemeanor elude, criminal trespass II, Possession of a controlled substance II, and Delivery of a controlled substance I. The passenger, Jesus Acosta Parra (20), of Pittsburgh (CA), was arrested for criminal trespass II, delivery of a controlled substance II, and possession of a controlled substance II. 

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

Linn County
Today, May 23, 2024, at approximately 11 a.m., an Oregon State Police K-9 Trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 near milepost 225 in Linn County. The vehicle was occupied by an adult couple and their 6-month-old infant. 

During a consent search of the vehicle, the trooper located 136 grams (about one-third of a pound) of fentanyl powder and mannitol, which is a common cutting agent for fentanyl. The fentanyl was located in the trunk of the vehicle near the baby’s formula and clothing. 

The driver, Meslin Danexi Gamez Barrientos (30) of Oakland (CA), was arrested for possession and delivery of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a minor. The passenger, Maryori Estefani Ochoa Chapas (30) of Oakland (CA), was arrested for possession and delivery of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a minor. 

The infant was placed in protective custody by the Oregon Department of Human Services. 

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

# # #

OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

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

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive & Business Meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm. The annual Retiree Recognitions will start at 6:00pm.

2024 Retirees

Middle School: Dave Anderson & Packy Flynn

Russell: Jacqueline Wood & Linda Sumner

Sacramento: Sue Golleher

Shaver: Barbara Bains, Linda Soule & Sally Davis 

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at:LINK.

Agenda items include, but are not limited to: Retiree recognitions, Principal of the year recognition (rescheduled to June 10th), Sacramento elementary goals report, MHCC presentation, OSBA reports, auction recap, first reading of policy revisions, local option, student empathy interview results, Portland clean energy fund & revised 24-25 school calendar 

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

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

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

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

Update 2: 5-23-24

On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the Oregon State Police was notified by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office that the body of Gurjinder Singh Grewal was recovered from the Willamette River at 10:37 a.m. Grewal was found by a fisherman between Oregon City and West Linn. Grewal was positively identified, and there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the recovery at this time.

Mr. Grewal’s family was notified yesterday evening by Oregon State Police. 

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

Update 1: 2-8-24

Body of news release updated to reflect correct incident date of February 8, 2024.

Marion County, Ore. 8 Feb 24 - Oregon State Police requesting public assistance locating a missing person.

On Thursday, February 8, 2024, Oregon State Police responded to the St Paul bridge on Hwy 219, near milepost 24, in Marion County. Gurjinder Singh Grewal (48) was last observed walking on the bridge at approximately 11:00 a.m.. His vehicle, a black Honda Pilot, was located just south of the bridge. 

Any person with dash-cam footage or who may have witnessed him in the area on 2 Feb. between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677).

Reference case number SP24042821.


 

Vancouver, Wash. - The Clark County Assessor’s office property tax exemption specialists will be available to answer questions and enroll property owners in the county’s property tax relief program at an upcoming outreach signup event.

The Tax Exemption Program for senior citizens and people with disabilities can reduce property tax liability for qualifying homeowners. Eligibility is based on age or disability, home ownership, residency, and income. Participants are not required to repay the taxes, and their homes are not subject to property liens. 

Exemption specialists will be on hand at the Luepke Center in the Community Room to enroll applicants from 9 am to 2:30 pm Friday, May 31. The center is located at 1009 E McLoughlin Blvd.

To schedule an appointment for the event, call 564.397.2391 or email eduction@clark.wa.gov">taxreduction@clark.wa.gov. Walk-ins also are welcome. Homeowners interested in attending should bring photo ID, federal tax return, W-2 and/or 1099, and any deduction documentation. 

Learn more about the program and apply online at https://assessor-property-tax-exemption-program-clarkcountywa.hub.arcgis.com/.

DALLAS (OR) – Today, in Polk County Circuit Court, Justin Nathaniel McAnulty, 24, pled guilty except insane to one count of Murder in the Second Degree in the death of Tigard resident Dennis Anderson, 48, on July 13, 2022. McAnulty shot Anderson nine times as he was returning home from a trip to the coast by way of Highway 18. As a result of McAnulty’s plea, he was sentenced to a lifetime commitment under the Oregon Psychiatric Security Review Board with physical confinement at the Oregon State Hospital.

In response to today’s plea and sentencing, Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton made the following statement:

“Justin McAnulty committed a violent, senseless and cowardly act when he cold-bloodedly murdered Dennis Anderson in front of his wife. Mr. Anderson was unarmed and completely without fault in this tragedy. Today, the court heard from multiple family members who spoke eloquently of the singular nature of Mr. Anderson and how their lives have been devastated by his loss. My heart continues to go out to them as they work to move forward and recover.

Although both the state’s and defense’s experts reached the same conclusion about the defendant’s mental status at the time the shooting, today’s outcome is extremely disappointing. While McAnulty’s guilty plea at long last takes responsibility for killing Mr. Anderson, I strongly believe that Mr. McAnulty presents a risk to community safety and should be securely confined for the remainder of his life. It is now up to the members of the PSRB and other officials of our state’s mental health system to protect the community from McAnulty.

I am grateful for the assistance of so many in the public safety and law enforcement community that worked tirelessly on this investigation. In particular, the Oregon Department of Justice who handled the overall litigation of the case, the Oregon State Police as lead investigators, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department, Portland Police Bureau, Keizer Police Department, Independence Police Department, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Sherriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”

((NOTE: This story is embargoed until 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29. Please do not publish until after that time.))

Longtime Battle Ground High School band director Greg McKelvey has been named grand marshal of the upcoming Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade happening Saturday, June 8. To recognize this amazing honor, Battle Ground High School will hold a short ceremony on the morning of Wednesday, May 29. Media interested in attending should contact communication@battlegroundps.org by noon on Tuesday, May 28, to RSVP and receive full details.

This is also a career “swan song” of sorts for McKelvey, who is hanging up his baton this summer after 28 years and hundreds of accolades. Under his leadership, the BGHS Advanced Jazz Band has earned numerous first place finishes at state and regional competitions. The band also earned a first place finish at the 2023 Basically Basie Jazz Heritage Competition in Kansas City. In addition to his work at the high school, McKelvey has overseen the middle school band programs at Chief Umtuch and Tukes Valley, as well as acting as a mentor for the high school’s Black Student Union.

At 0808 this morning Vancouver Fire was dispatched to the report of a fire alarm at 1351 Lincoln Ave. in Vancouver, Washington at Lincoln Place.  Just as Truck one arrived it was reported that there was a fire on the third floor.   The call was upgraded to a commercial structure fire and received additional units.  Vancouver Fire responded with twenty-four personnel.  Firefighters quickly ascended to the third floor to extinguish the fire, search for victims and evacuate the building.  The sprinkler system kept the fire in check and prevented it from spreading. Truck one made sure the fire was extinguished and found a person in the fire room of origin.  Patient care was initiated by Vancouver Fire Paramedics.  The patient was transported emergently with severe burns by American Medical Response Ambulance with Vancouver Fire Paramedics onboard to continue advanced life support while enroute to Emanual Hospital.  Two other residents were evaluated but declined treatment/transport.  

The fire was deemed to be under control in ten minutes.  The Vancouver Fire Marshals Office was on site to investigate with the Vancouver Police Department.  Clark County Fire District 6 sent one engine to the scene.

May 23, 2024

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, 503-405-5403, acher2@oha.oregon.gov">Amy.Bacher2@oha.oregon.gov

Dr. Emma Sandoe Named as Director of the Oregon Health Authority’s Medicaid Division

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Odin E. Grant, age 1, a child who was last seen in Hood River and The Dalles, May 3, 2024, with his mother, Cecilia Grant aka Cecilia Gomez. Odin is believed to be in danger. 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find him and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see him. 

Odin and his mother may be in Hood River or The Dalles. They may be with be with Jimmie Champion.

Name: Odin E. Grant
Pronouns: He/him 
Date of birth: Nov. 21, 2022
Height:  2 feet, 8.68 inches
Weight: 29 pounds
Hair: Light brown
Eye color: Blue
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2022100
Hood River Police Department Case #P240429

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may disappear repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child. 

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.  

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The administrative leadership team at Hockinson School District was honored with the 2024 Student Achievement Leadership Award at ESD 112's Regional WASA Awards Ceremony on Friday, May 17. This award recognizes educators for their integrity, positive community presence, and dedication to enriching the future of Hockinson students.

The award highlights the team's commitment to creating an environment of hope and initiative, both inside and outside their schools. Their efforts set a positive tone for student success throughout the district. "The district and building leadership team is such a strong and united front. Their commitment and dedication to this challenging work is contagious and inspiring," said Gahyla Auel of ESD 112.

Award winners include Superintendent Steve Marshall, Director of Special Education Keila Dean, Teaching & Learning Coordinator Jennifer Sawyer, Director of Curriculum & Instruction Joshua Robertson, HHS Principal Tim Fox, HHS Associate Principal Kathy Pacheco, HMS Principal Bess Colpron, HMS Dean of Students and Athletic Director Sid Slom, HHES Principal Meredith Gannon, and HHES Associate Principal Michael Olson.

“I’m so proud to work with this team and continually inspired by what they achieve with teachers and students. Everyone brings a different skill set to the group, but we’re all collaborative, energetic, and focused...we’re all focused on student learning and making sure that each and every Hockinson student feels like they belong at school and has a positive school environment and a network of adults that supports their success, " said Steve Marshall, Superintendent of Hockinson School District.

The award reflects the team’s commitment to improvement and innovation in education. Their leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive academic environment for all students in Hockinson. Learn more about Hockinson School District at https://www.hocksd.org/.

Working adults asked for remote and online options to Complete a Bachelor’s Degree and Chemeketa listened!

Salem, Ore., May 23, 2024 — Chemeketa Community College launched the first Bachelor’s degree program offered by an Oregon Community College last fall and the cohort filled rapidly.  However, many individuals who have childcare or work schedule conflicts, or who live far from the Salem campus,  and who could not attend in-person classes asked if the program could be expanded to an online format.

Since its inceptions, the Chemeketa BAS in Leadership and Management has been thriving, and is now in its third term on the Salem campus with 29 students.  As Chemeketa opened applications for Fall 24, we added a new option for students – the Zoom cohort.  This group of students will attend class one night a week via Zoom and then complete the rest of their work online, ensuring a flexible and practical learning experience. 

Tim Ray, Dean of Ag Sciences and Technology at Chemeketa, reports the addition was made due to significant interest in a remote option.  “Some of our advisory committee had asked that we start with a remote option, but we wanted our first cohort here on campus to test our model.  Now that we know we are on the right track, we feel ready to launch a remote option.”

This innovative option makes CHemeketa’s program more accessible than ever, particularly for those who cannot make it to the Salem campus once a week. It further strengthens the program’s mission of helping working adults gain the benefits of a bachelor’s degree in an accessible, affordable, and achievable model.  Students will attend class via Zoom one night a week from 6-9 pm on Wednesdays for the first four terms and then Thursdays for the last three terms.  Marg Yaroslaski, Instructor of the BAS in Leadership and Management, reports that weekly class time is crucial to student success: “Students are not listening to lectures for three hours in class – instead, we are actively discussing and working together to put the learning into our work contexts and learn from each other.  Our work in the classroom helps students make immediate changes at work.”     

Applications for the Salem Campus and Zoom cohorts are currently open on the website:go.chemeketa.edu/BASLeadershipManagement. Applicants must have an AAS or an AGS with a technical course presence and at least three years of work experience, showing increasing responsibility.   

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4000 Lancaster Drive NE Sale

For more than 50 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 30,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: May 23, 2024

Salem Police begins preparations for its 40^th year of National Night Out

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Police Department has started preparations to celebrate its 40^th anniversary of National Night Out in the Salem community on Tuesday, August 6.To create a stronger and safer community, the program emphasizes relationship-building among neighbors, as well as neighbors and police, through neighborhood get-togethers.

Each year on the first Tuesday in August, residents in neighborhoods all across the city organize neighborhood block parties during the evening hours. From ice cream socials to barbecues and bounce houses, neighbors gather to strengthen neighborhood ties and build community. 

For law enforcement, National Night Out is an opportunity to further trust-building efforts with residents. In Salem, police teams visit approximately 100 block parties between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to meet neighbors, share crime prevention information, and further efforts to strengthen relationships and trust.

The Salem Police Department has participated in the National Night Out (NNO) program since 1984, skipping a year during the pandemic and making 2024 its fortieth occasion of celebrating the police-community partnership.

Neighbors interested in holding a block party can register online at salempd.info/nno starting today, May 23. Registering a block party allows neighbors to notify the police department of the event time and location and select whether they want to close the street for the event or reserve a neighborhood park. 

Early registration is encouraged as street closure and park use requests for NNO must be completed by July 26.

To mark the forty-year milestone of the Salem Police program, while supplies last, each registered party will receive one commemorative t-shirt.

For more information visit the Salem Police webpage.

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May 23, 2024

Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA encourages mpox vaccination

PORTLAND, Ore. – As people gather and travel to celebrate Pride Month in June, health officials are reminding Oregonians about the importance of protecting themselves and their community by getting the mpox vaccine.

Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at Oregon Health Authority (OHA), said the number of mpox infections in the state has dropped significantly since an outbreak in June 2022. However, the virus continues to circulate at low levels, with occasional increases in case counts.

“Mpox activity has generally remained low, but by no means has this virus gone away in Oregon or other parts of the country,” Sidelinger said. “Pride is a great time for people in the LGBTQIA2S+ community to show support for themselves, their partners and their community by getting both doses of the mpox vaccine.”

Oregon saw between 10 and 15 mpox cases reported each week when the outbreak peaked in August 2022. Since then, weekly case counts have ranged between no cases to two or three cases. There were 270 mpox cases in 2022, 30 cases in 2023 and, as of April 30, eight cases so far in 2024. There have been no deaths.

The JYNNEOS mpox vaccine is highly effective. According to a May 2023 study published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the vaccine was found to be 75% effective for those receiving one dose and 86% effective for those who had two doses.

Until last month, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) distributed JYNNEOS to vaccine providers at no cost. On April 1, JYNNEOS manufacturer Bavarian Nordic launched the vaccine on the commercial market, so providers will now bill health insurance to cover the cost. HHS will continue to make JYNNEOS vaccine available as needed; the vaccine remains free to Oregon Health Plan members, and Oregon law requires vaccine’s cost to be covered for others with commercial insurance.

Mpox spreads primarily through close, skin-to-skin contact. Most often, it has occurred through intimate or sexual contact, and during contact with the lesions of an individual with mpox through a caregiving relationship, such as a parent caring for a child or an adult caretaker of another person.

Infection rates are highest among people living in Multnomah County, those ages 30 to 39, and members of the Latino/a/x/e and Black/African American communities. Most cases were men who reported having sex with men, and most identified as gay or bisexual men.

People who suspect they have mpox should contact their health care provider to let them know before going in to be seen. The provider may recommend testing for mpox. Those who don’t have a health care provider can call 2-1-1 or their local public health authority for help finding a clinic or health care provider.

For more information about mpox in Oregon, visit OHA’s mpox website. Vaccination clinics can also be searched by ZIP code with an mpox vaccine locator tool at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/Monkeypox/Pages/vaccine.aspx or at https://mpoxvaxmap.org/.

The Fairview City Council voted unanimously today to offer Laura Conroy the City Manager position pending contract negotiations. The thorough evaluation process occurred over the last four days which included staff and community receptions and panel interviews by community leaders, peer public administrators, City department heads, and the City Council.

Mayor Keith Kudrna shared, “Even though we had a number of excellent candidates, we are excited by the direction Laura Conroy can take the City.”

Laura Conroy expressed, “Fairview is a wonderful City and I am excited to work with the Mayor, Council, staff, and community partners to accomplish the City’s vision for a thriving community.”

The City will begin negotiating a contract for employment with Ms. Conroy and a timeline for her arrival will be announced at a later date.

Laura Conroy is the current Attorney/Administrator/Project Manager for the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments. She previously served as Director of Strategic Engagement for the Multnomah Education Service District; Principal for Conroy Consulting; Partner at Adkins Watkinson; and Associate at Adkins and Associates. Ms. Conroy holds a Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Resource Economics from Oregon State University.

EVENT PRESS RELEASE  
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
May 23, 2024

MEDIA ADVISORY: 2024 Junior Market 

WHAT: 2024 Junior Market 

BACKGROUND: Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver, a leading program for youth empowerment and financial literacy, is thrilled to announce the upcoming Junior Market event, brought to the community by the Greater Vancouver Chamber and presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union, on Saturday, June 1st. We cordially invite members of the media to join us for this exciting event and witness the brilliance of our young entrepreneurs as they make their mark on the world!  

The Junior Market will feature over 350 kids, aged 6-16, from across the region, each running their own business for a day. We anticipate a strong community turnout of approximately 15,000 supporters this year. These young entrepreneurs will sell a variety of creative homegrown and handmade products, showcasing the skills they've acquired through the Chamber’s My Lemonade Day program. This program teaches essential business concepts such as budgeting, setting profit goals, customer service, repaying investors, and giving back to the community. 

The average profit per stand is $225, but children commonly make $300-$500 on this day, and many up to or over $1000! Last year’s event generated a remarkable $40,000 in total profit, directly benefiting our young CEOs. 

We are confident that the Junior Marker event will be an inspiring and captivating experience for the media, providing compelling stories and visuals that showcase the extraordinary potential of our youth. This is a unique opportunity to interview the participating children, their mentors, business leaders, and partners who have played a crucial role in fostering a culture of innovation and support for these young achievers. By covering this event, you can underscore the importance of nurturing young talent, driving innovation, and celebrating the achievements of our future leaders. 

Please join us for the ribbon cutting ceremony at 8:50 AM.  

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 2024 

WHERE: Vancouver Farmers Market | Esther Short Park (605 Esther St., Vancouver, WA 98660) 

TIME: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (Media Check-In: 8:40am)  

PROGRAM LINK: Junior Market  

MEDIA ASSETS: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13x6SPe8vKvjnbPcZEYhWb4SKEwgQU-RP

PRESS RELEASE: Greater Vancouver Chamber’s Junior Market Returns to Celebrate Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Southwest Washington

RSVP: To plan appropriately, please let us know if you will be able to attend as a media representative by emailing lsalmonte@vancouverusa.com.  

About Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver

Since its inception in 2021, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has been rooted in entrepreneurial spirit. Engaging over 3,500 young minds across Southwest Washington, kids ages 6-16 have been learning the essential ABCs of business skills, fueling their creativity, and fostering their understanding of entrepreneurship. We take pride in the fact that 35% of our participants hail from diverse backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and community empowerment. Our initiative has made a SPLASH, generating a whopping $90,000 in sales, directly benefiting charities, and lining the pockets of these budding CEOs! We are more than just a program - we are making a difference one junior-business at a time. For additional details, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/annual-events/lemonadeday. 

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 130 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. 

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Beaverton, Oregon – Around 3PM on May 17^th, 2024, Beaverton Police Department patrol officers responded to the report of a road rage incident which occurred on SW Murray Blvd. near SW Allen Blvd. in Beaverton. 

The reporting party, a young mother, was driving her children home from school when a male on a motorcycle began screaming and yelling at her. The male, later identified as 33-year-old Joseph Lee of Portland, accused the young mother of cutting him off.

The victim was driving a Tesla which was equipped with multiple on vehicle cameras which captured the incident. Those cameras show Joseph Lee hitting and kicking the victim’s Tesla. At one point, Joseph Lee appears to pull a knife and reportedly tells the victim he is going to kill her.

Images of the incident were released to the public and the Beaverton Police Department received a tip identifying Joseph Lee.

Beaverton Police Department officers followed up and determined that Joseph Lee was already in custody at the Washington County Jail. He had been arrested May 18^th, 2024, by the Washington County Sheriff's Office for DUII, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Menacing and Disorderly Conduct. All charges stemming from a separate incident which occurred around 9PM on May 18^th, where Joseph Lee reportedly pulled a knife on man at Brooklyn Trattoria, a restaurant located at 4708 NW Bethany Blvd.

Beaverton Police Department officers added charges of Menacing, Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief stemming from the incident on May 17^th on Murray Blvd. Joseph Lee is still in custody at the time of this writing. He is due in Washington County Circuit Court today (5/23/2024) at 2PM. 

#BPD#

Carlton, Ore. — In the interest of public safety, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will temporarily close a section of the Nestucca Access Road, starting June 6, 2024. The Nestucca Access Road will be closed to through-traffic at mile-post 15.1, just east of Elk Bend Campground, and at mile-post 11.9, just west of Fan Creek Campground.

During the closure, which will last through August 2, 2024, BLM contractors will repair a failed portion of the road, and repair a large stream culvert (Davidson Culvert).

“By repairing the road and making improvements to the inlet of Davidson Culvert, we will make the Nestucca Access Road safer for the public,” said Janet Satter, BLM Tillamook Field Manager.

The Nestucca Access Road is part of the Nestucca National Backcountry Byway. The Byway is a loop between Beaver and Carlton that includes the Nestucca Access Road, Bible Creek Access Road, and Bald Mountain Road.

During the closure, other portions of the Byway will remain open and will be available as a detour route.

Please follow safety and road closure signs and use the designated detour routes.  

-BLM-

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

Salem – Oregon consumers can get a first look at requested rates for 2025 individual and small group health insurance plans, the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) announced today.

In a major win for Oregonians, Moda will become the fifth company to offer health insurance in every single county in Oregon after expanding into Benton, Linn, and Lincoln counties. Moda joins BridgeSpan, PacificSource, Providence, and Regence as health insurance companies who provide coverage in all parts of Oregon. It is the first time that five insurers have offered plans in every county.  

In the individual market, six companies submitted rate change requests ranging from an average increase of 5.0 percent to 11.6 percent, for a weighted average increase of 9.3 percent. That average increase is higher than last year’s requested weighted average increase of 6.2 percent.

In the small group market, eight companies submitted rate change requests ranging from an average increase of 5.7 percent to 16.3 percent, for a weighted average increase of 12.3 percent, which is higher than last year’s requested 8.1 percent average increase.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to help stabilize the market and lower rates. Reinsurance lowered rates by 8.4 percent. 

See the attached chart for the full list of rate change requests.

“Oregon’s health insurance market remains competitive, with five carriers planning to offer plans next year in every Oregon county, up from only one statewide plan in 2018,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner and DCBS Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “Unfortunately, inflation – both medical and nonmedical – as well as prescription drug costs, are driving prices higher than last year. Oregonians still have a lot of options to choose from and the Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to allow them to find reasonable rates.”

Virtual public hearings about the 2025 requested health insurance rates will be held July 1 from 9 a.m. to noon. A web address to watch the public hearings will be posted at OregonHealthRates.org. At the hearings, each insurance company will provide a brief presentation about its rate increase requests, answer questions from Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) staff, and hear public comment from Oregonians. The public also can comment on the proposed rates at any time at OregonHealthRates.org through July 1.

“We look forward to putting these rate requests through a rigorous public review, and we encourage the public to join the virtual public hearings and provide feedback on their health insurance plans,” Stolfi said. “This public process not only helps keep insurance companies accountable, but it gives people the opportunity be part of the process.”

The requested rates are for plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act for small businesses and individuals who buy their own coverage rather than getting it through an employer.

Over the next two months, the division will analyze the requested rates to ensure they adequately cover Oregonians’ health care costs. DFR must review and approve rates before they are charged to policyholders.

Preliminary decisions are expected to be announced in July, and final decisions will be made in August after the public hearings and comment period ends.

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

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College's upcoming Groundswell Conference will feature an array of themes that should captivate audiences. 

More than 40 students will present their original, creative and academic writings on a range of topics, across the disciplines, presenting their submissions at the annual conference of student work’s opening ceremony at 8:45 a.m., Friday, June 7 Room 122, Terrell Hall, at the Cascade Campus.  

Panel topics are cultural identity, gender expectations and feminism, mental health, music, social justice, domestic violence, social media and technology, education, creative writing, and more. Held since 2017, this event is an opportunity to bring students, faculty, and the greater community together from across the district for one day to celebrate students and engage in conversation. 

Free and open to the public, Groundswell panels are from 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The three main sessions, with several topics each, are held for 45-minutes with a small break between with refreshments. In fact, there is a volcanic multimedia student-made composition from PCC’s All-Oregon Academic Team member Yogev Toby, viewable here.

“It’s a truly unique event that honors and showcases our students’ work from any and all disciplines,” said organizer and PCC English instructor Melissa Manolas. 

Times of sessions on June 7 are: Session 1 from 9:45-10:30 a.m.; Session 2 from 10:45-11:30 a.m.; and Session 3 from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

For more information visit https://www.pcc.edu/events/groundswell/.

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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Catch his show on Wednesday, August 28

[SALEM, OR] – The Oregon State Fair is thrilled to announce country singer, Josh Turner, is joining the 2024 Umpqua Bank Concert Series lineup! 

Turner’s timeless songs, “Long Black Train” and “Why Don’t We Just Dance” and his brand new single, “Heatin’ Things Up” prove this country star is the perfect addition. On top of his country prowess, in the fall of 2018, Josh Turner released a passion project I Serve A Savior, his first country gospel record. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of faith, family, and country music.

With this star-studded bill, The Oregon State Fair will be sunnier than ever this year – happening August 23 through Labor Day, September 2. From country to reggae and pop artists, this fantastic lineup has something for everyone to enjoy!

• Friday, August 23 – veteran and country star, Craig Morgan
• Saturday, August 24 – roots reggae group, Steel Pulse
• Monday, August 26 –timeless rock band, The Goo Goo Dolls
• Tuesday, August 27 – rapper, Yung Gravy
• Wednesday, August 28 – country singer, Josh Turner
• Thursday, August 29 – premier entertainer, Ludacris
• Friday, August 30 – singer and songwriter, Daya
• Saturday, August 31 – legendary rock band, FOREIGNER
• Monday, September 2 – Winner of “The Voice”, Huntley, with support from Oregon Native Jacquie Roar

Good news! When you buy a concert ticket, it includes Fair admission. To purchase additional Fair Admission, Carnival, and other tickets, visit oregonstatefair.org. 

Ticket information: 

Tickets will ONLY be available for purchase on The Oregon State Fair website and in person at the Fair box office. Thanks to Umpqua Bank, there will be NO service fees.

Sign up for our newsletter here to get the latest fair information. 

Fair links

Tickets: (Fair/Carnival/Concerts/Fast Pass/Parking)  https://oregonstatefair.org/tickets

About the Oregon State Fair:
The Oregon State Fair is a public/private entity owned by the people of Oregon. The Fair began in 1861 in Oregon City. In 1862, the Fair moved to the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem, the State Capitol. The Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center hosts thousands of visitors from all over the world each year, with premier concerts, art, culture, rides, agricultural exhibits, and livestock exhibits. Throughout the year, the Fair and Expo Center works with multiple agencies to help facilitate emergency and disaster response needs. For more information, visit oregonstatefair.org or contact us at info@oregonstatefair.org 

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GATES, Oregon—If you want to get out in the woods this Memorial Day weekend, try one of Oregon’s state forests.  There are several campgrounds that often have openings or if you are just looking to go for a hike there is free parking at trailheads. 

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) manages all recreation facilities in state forests.  In northwest Oregon this includes the Clatsop, Santiam and Tillamook State Forests.

 There are three types of camping offered: developed campgrounds, designated campsites outside of regular campgrounds, and dispersed camping.

State forest campgrounds offer a true forest experience without the crowds since most have less than 20 campsites at each location.

“Developed campgrounds have restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings and often have other amenities like hand pump wells,” said John Mandich, a recreation specialist at ODF’s Northwest Oregon Area office.  “Also, most of our campgrounds are first come, first served.  So, if you are a last-minute type of camper, you should try one of our campgrounds.”

Some campgrounds get used less than others.  One of those is the Santiam Horse Camp in the Santiam State Forest near Gates, Oregon.

“This is up the mountain side at 1,200-1,400 foot elevations, so it has great views of the Santiam Canyon,” said Mandich.  “There is a 10-mile loop trail that is muti-use for horses, hikers and mountain bikers.  There are nine sites with corrals, parking for large vehicles to accommodate horse trailers—these can be reserved, but you must have a horse. So far only three of those sites are reserved for Memorial Day weekend.”

There is a day-use area with a pavilion, picnic tables, parking, restrooms and running water at a hand-pump well.

“There are only two designated camping spots for those without horses,” said Mandich.  “We hope to expand that in the near future. However, Rock Creek Campground is close by too and they have five spots.”

Whether visiting for the day or camping there are many recreational opportunities nearby.

“The recently reopened Shellburg Falls recreation area is within a 30-minute drive of the horse camp,” said Mandich.  “Popular Detroit Lake is also about the same distance too.”

Another unique aspect of the area around the Santiam Horse Camp  (See the guide)  is you can see all the phases of forest management on the trail.

“There are recent clearcuts from salvage logging after the 2020 fires,” said Mandich.  “These have recently been replanted.  Then you can walk a ways and see 10-15 year old trees and finally you can see old stands with trees that have three-to-four foot diameters.  It’s a unique experience in a compact area.” 

There are also designated campsites outside of developed campgrounds.  These are numbered and offer a fire ring for campfires. The last type is dispersed camping with no amenities offered. 

 “There are rules for dispersed camping the most important being—pack out what you take in, practice good campfire safety (keep fires small, attended, and make sure they are out), and practice good sanitation (bury your poop). And, camping this way it’s free for up to 14 days.”

Fees at state forest campgrounds range from $5 – $20 per night depending on the type of site. For Memorial Day and July 4 active-duty military get to stay for free with a valid military ID card. Also, the state forest campgrounds honor the Oregon state parks disabled veterans access pass. 

Although openings can be found on weekends, weekdays have the best availability.  “If you shift your camping trip to a weekday you have a very good chance of getting a spot at most of our campgrounds,” said Mandich.

If you want an outdoor experience further west than the Santiam, try the Tillamook and Clatsop state forests.  If you are going through the Tillamook State Forest, be sure to stop in at the Tillamook Forest Center to see displays about the history, sustainable forest management and wildlife in Oregon’s state forests.  They also have hiking areas including a 250-foot suspension bridge behind the center that crosses the Wilson River and nearby is the Jones Creek Campground.

These are typically under used campgrounds in the Clatsop and Tillamook state forests:

Clatsop State Forest

• Northrup Creek Horse Campground (Equestrian)

Tillamook State Forest

• Morrison Eddy Campground
• Jordan Creek Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Campground
• Reehers Camp Campground (Equestrian)
• Keenig Creek Campground
• Stagecoach Horse Campground (Equestrian)

To see a complete list of state forests camping opportunities, visit the  ODF recreation webpage. The page lists the name, location, amenities, number of camp sites, fees and more information. 

SAFETY TIPS FOR RUNNERS

The Newport Marathon is just around the corner, so we can expect to see local and guest runners hitting the road on June 1st. Motorists should use extra caution, not only during special events like this, but throughout the year. Whether you are a well-seasoned runner or just beginning your running hobby, there are some things you should consider to keep yourself safe while running. The time of day and weather impact not only how you feel on your run but can also be more dangerous depending on the situation. Before heading out on your next run, consider these tips. 

Before the Run

• Run with another person or a group.
• Let someone know when and where you are running and when you will return. 
• Carry ID and a cell phone. Consider adding a small card with an emergency contact and any allergies or known medical conditions. 
• Take a whistle with you.
• Dress for the weather and running conditions. Wear layers and sturdy shoes.
• Wear reflective clothing or gear regardless of the time of day. 
• Use caution if you wear headphones or anything that distracts you. Be aware of cars passing by, animals you may encounter, and other hazards on your route.
• Vary the route and the time of day that you run.
• If you run at night, remember to wear a headlamp and a flashing red light on your back. Consider additional reflective gear. 
• Remember to stretch! Stretching before running and regular flexibility and strength training help prevent injuries.

During the Run

• Run against traffic so that you can observe the approach of automobiles.
• When possible, run on sidewalks or designated trails/pedestrian paths.
• Remember to hydrate. Runner’s belts and vests make it easier to carry water and snacks. 
• Keep an eye on the temperature and how your body feels. If you start to overheat, feel dizzy, or otherwise unwell, take a break in the shade and drink water. 
• Stay alert. When in doubt, follow your intuition. If something seems suspicious, do not panic, but run in a different direction.
• Do not approach a car to give directions. If you feel you must respond, do it while moving.
• Run in familiar areas. Note the location of neighbors or open businesses along the route. 
• When in doubt call for help. For an emergency, call 911. Non-emergency dispatch can be reached at 541-265-0777, or call a friend and keep them on the phone until you feel safe again.

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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PHOTO OP: TK-5 elementary students tour police squad cars, fire trucks, ambulances, learn how to splint fingers, watch a K9 unit in action

Kelso High School Career and Technical Education is partnering with emergency and medical professionals in Cowlitz County to help Barnes Elementary students learn about careers in emergency services through hands-on activities. The event is an effort to bolster career awareness at the elementary level in an engaging way. 

Small groups of students will rotate through the following hands-on activity stations facilitated by Kelso High Fire Science, Health Science, and Police Science students in conjunction with local first responders:

• Police squad car tours
• Fire engine tours
• Ambulance tours
• SWAT vehicle tour
• Finger printing station
• Finger splinting station
• ID bracelet station
• Obstacle course
• K9 unit on site
• Fire hose demonstration
• Drone races
• And more…

Emergency Services Career Awareness
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Barnes Elementary School
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM 

PARTICIPATING AGENCIES

• Kelso and Longview Police Departments
• Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue

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.  Kelso’s CTE program offers approximately 75 on-site courses and 7 off-campus courses in partnership with industry leaders. Students can earn dual credit in 21 CTE courses. Kelso School District’s mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world. When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong). 

SALEM, Oregon— The public is invited to comment on the draft 2025-29 Oregon Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) titled Balance and Engagement: Sustaining the Benefits for All Oregonians. A copy of the draft SCORP document and support documents are posted online for public review.  The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will accept comments until June 28, 2024.

The five-year plan is a comprehensive look at Oregon’s outdoor recreation needs and priorities based on a representative population survey of more than 3,000 residents and recreation providers. The research was conducted in collaboration with Oregon State University. 

Results help guide federal, state, and local government, as well as the private and nonprofit sectors, in making policy and planning decisions. The primary purpose of the plan is to provide guidance for the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program and other OPRD grant programs. The SCORP also provides up-to-date, high-quality information to assist recreation providers with park system planning in Oregon.

Comments can be submitted directly through a comment feature on the SCORP webpage or by mail to Oregon Parks & Recreation Department, 725 Summer Street NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301, Attn: Caleb Dickson.

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Is the water calling? The Oregon State Marine Board wants to remind boaters to be aware of their surroundings, have all the required gear, and let others know their recreation plans.

“Inexperience and solo operation continue to be a growing trend of boating fatalities in Oregon. Planning ahead, boat with others, always keeping a sharp lookout, and wearing a properly fitted life jacket for your boating activity should be top of mind for all boaters,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways.”

The agency advises boaters to plan ahead and check out the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps and local rules for boat operations. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions, and have the right gear for your boating activity. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and cause dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness.
• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters on Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.
• In Oregon, all motorboat operators with propulsion greater than 10 horsepower must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating the boat. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity. 
• Fill out a float plan and leave it with friends and family. This way they can call for help if you are overdue.
   

For more information about safe boating in Oregon, visit Boat.Oregon.gov.
 

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SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and its local, state, and federal partners have started implementing the 20-year Landscape Resiliency Strategy. The strategy prioritizes areas at high-risk for wildfires. This year through mid-2025, the three programs paid for by the state’s General Fund will invest about $14 million into local, state, federal, and private partners’ projects. The investment will expedite work on over 100,000 acres. The partners will implement these landscape resiliency strategy projects to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk.

As 2024 continues, ODF builds on prior investments. This means leading partner work to reduce wildfire risk, which includes creating wildfire buffers around communities in the wildland-urban interface or WUI. To do some of this work ODF has 13 programs that leverage 27 funding sources. The three state-funded programs are the Landscape Resiliency Program, Small Forestland Grant Program, and Federal Forest Restoration (FFR) Program.

“The state’s leaders have seen how strategic forestry investments can leverage state funds to reduce wildfire risk, bolster the economy, and protect water sources,” said State Forester Cal Mukumoto. “Thoughtful planning makes this happen; that’s what ODF does. Today we’re highlighting some strategic investment vehicles — the Landscape Resiliency, Small Forestland Grant, and Federal Forest Restoration Programs.” 

The Landscape Resiliency Program funds large projects across property ownerships to prioritize work that provides value to nearby communities. The 2023–25 $10 million investment will help improve wildlands and reduce wildfire risk on about 29,000 acres.

• Northern Blues Central Grande Ronde River Fuels Project in Union County (925 acres). Remove brush and dead trees to connect with private and public lands that have already been similarly managed to reduce wildfire risk to communities.
• Oakridge-Westfir Landscape Resiliency Project in Lane County (300 acres). Will reduce brush and wood debris and invasive pests; thin; and may use goats to manage brush.  
• Reduce Wildfire Risk in SE Oregon in Harney and Malheur Counties (22,745 acres). Reduce invasive grasses and western juniper, primary carriers of fire in sagebrush steppe.
• Klamath Tribes Fuel Reduction & Fire Resiliency on Klamath Tribal Land (3,500 acres). Eliminate brush, small trees, and dead wood using prescribed fire; thin and clear the wood debris. It will reduce wildfire risk for federal, tribal, private lands, and communities.
• River in Southwest Oregon (950 acres). Will reduce fuel on private lands and Medford Water Commission Lands using crews, contracts, and prescribed burns by the Rogue Valley Prescribe Burn Association to show benefits of using non-wildfire to manage forests.

The 2023–25 Small Forestland Grant Program has awarded $2.5 million to forestland owners for 14 projects on about 1,300 acres. This program helps improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk around communities. The awards invest in the following counties through various local partners.

• Benton including a project led by Grand Oaks Summit Owners Association.
• Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson led by Upper Deschutes Watershed Council and Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council with the Heart of Oregon Corps. The Heart of Oregon Corps project will include parts of Jefferson and Crook Counties.
• Grant, Lane, and Umatilla coordinated by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s District and Unit Foresters for multiple groups of landowners.
• Hood River under Hood River Soil and Water Conservation District’s leadership.
• Jackson and Josephine through the Applegate Partnership and Watershed Council, Department of Forestry, Sun Ridge Estates Homeowners Association, and the Southern Oregon Forest Restoration Collaborative.
• Morrow through a project led by the Morrow Soil and Water Conservation District.

Every two years the Oregon Legislature decides whether to fund the Landscape Resiliency and Small Forestland Grant Programs. If the programs receive funding for the 2025–27 cycle, project leaders can apply in mid-2025. 

The FFR Program improves forest federal forest health and resilience. As part of the 20-year Strategy, the program helps the state work across property lines to reduce wildfire risk, improve forest and watershed health, and sustain jobs in rural, forest dependent communities. To reach these goals the program invests in two key areas, forest collaboratives and environmental reviews.

Forest collaboratives bring together diverse stakeholders to build trust to responsibly thin forests and use prescribed fire. FFR uses two grant programs to do this – Forest Collaborative Grants (FCG) and Technical Assistance and Science Support (TASS) grants. FCGs help increase the number, acreage, and complexity of collaborative projects. TASS grants give collaboratives access to current science. 

• FCG investments in 2023-25 provided $410,000 to nine forest collaboratives that include the Blue Mountains Forest Partners, Deschutes Collaborative Forest Project, Hood River Forest Collaborative, Northern Blues Forest Collaborative, Ochoco Forest Restoration Collaborative, Southern Oregon Forest Restoration Collaborative, Southern Willamette Forest Collaborative, Wasco County Forest Collaborative, and Wild Rivers Coast Forest Collaborative
• TASS grants in 2023-25 provided $400,000 to eleven technical assistance providers supporting ten forest collaboratives on the Willamette, Rogue River-Siskiyou, Mt. Hood, Deschutes, Ochoco, Wallowa-Whitman, Umatilla, and Siuslaw National Forests.

Environmental review investments help federal agencies create shovel-ready projects at the pace and scale necessary to respond to the need. The Planning Assistance and Categorical Exclusion (PACE) grants speed up planning through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. PACE investments in 2023-25 total $2 million ($600,000 state; $1.4 million federal) and will expedite planning for about 70,000 acres across the Rogue River-Siskiyou, Fremont-Winema, Deschutes, Mt. Hood, Wallowa-Whitman, Umpqua, and Umatilla National Forests.

ODF leads the 20-Year Landscape Resiliency Strategy to identify environmental and wildfire risks. Then the partners focus investments on priority areas. 

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What: 2024 Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony 
Who: Jared Howard, Director, Willamette National Cemetery; William Leady, Assistant Director, Willamette National Cemetery; Margaret Ayres, Assistant Director, Willamette National Cemetery 
When: Monday, May 27, 2024, at 10 a.m. Ceremony will last approx. 1 hour.
Where: Willamette National Cemetery 
Contact: Jared Howard, Director 503-273-5256

The Department of Veterans Affairs Willamette National Cemetery will host a solemn Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony, accompanied by speeches, and the playing of Taps.

Honored Speakers include: Jared Howard, Director, Willamette National Cemetery; William Leady, Assistant Director, Willamette National Cemetery; Margaret Ayres, Assistant Director, Willamette National Cemetery All members of the local community and our media partners are welcome to attend.

VA operates 155 national cemeteries and 34 soldiers' lots and monument sites in 44 states and Puerto Rico. More than 5 million Americans, including Veterans of every war and conflict, are buried in VA cemeteries. VA also provides headstones, markers or medallions for Veterans buried in state, territorial and tribal Veterans cemeteries or interred in private cemeteries.

Special Instructions: Parking for media anywhere, except behind the speaking platform. Media are requested to contact the cemetery director (contact information is in the header) no later than Friday, May 24th to confirm attendance, reserve parking and receive coordinating information on audio/video setup.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE:  May 22, 2024

Deadly crash involving a motorized scooter

Salem, Ore. — Emergency personnel responded to the intersection of Liberty and River STS NE at approximately 9:45 a.m. today on the report of a collision involving a person riding an electric-powered chair and a car.

The initial investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team determined a woman on a motorized chair was attempting to cross Liberty ST from east to west when she was struck by a vehicle traveling northbound on Liberty ST. Witnesses reported the scooter operator entered the roadway close to oncoming traffic when the crash occurred.

The woman operating the motorized chair is identified as Lois Marie Randall, age 70. Randall was transported to Salem Health where she later died from injuries received in the collision.

The driver of the vehicle, Jami Lee Duhrkoop, age 36, remained at the scene after the crash. Duhrkoop is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Northbound Liberty ST between River and South STS was closed until 12:30 p.m. for investigation and clearing of the scene.

This morning’s traffic fatality is the thirteenth to occur in Salem since the start of the year.

# # #

May 22, 2024 

Media contacts: 

Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, ica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">Erica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503-871-8843 

Jake Sunderland, Oregon Department of Human Services, land@odhs.oregon.gov">Jake.Sunderland@odhs.oregon.gov, 503-877-0170 

System updates help pave the way for upcoming renewals, ensuring health coverage retention 

SALEM, Ore. — With over 91 percent of the state’s 1.5 million renewals complete, more than four out of five Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.  

An update this month to the ONE Eligibility system will enable Oregon to use an improved process for the remaining renewals. These changes are a substantial set of small adjustments to the renewal process that together will make it easier for the people of Oregon to keep their medical benefits. 

During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), which ended in April 2023, the federal government allowed states to keep people on Medicaid benefits. This ended when the pandemic emergency ended, so over the last year Oregon has been making sure everyone on OHP is still eligible. 

At this point in the PHE unwinding process: 

• Just 443 members, about 0.03 percent, still need to respond to renewal requests. 
• 7,473 members, about 0.5 percent, have responded to their renewal but are awaiting state action on the response. 
• The remaining renewals, about 8.3 percent of the total, will occur over the summer. 

Oregon’s 82 percent renewal rate continues to be the third highest in a national comparison of state renewal rates by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization. Oregon’s high renewal rates are due to proactive efforts by the state to keep people covered, including extended response timelines, and the upcoming launch of OHP Bridge for adults with higher incomes. 

Members who have not received a renewal yet should: 

• Keep their address and contact information up to date. 
• Check their mail or ONE Online account for their renewal letter. 
• Do what the renewal letter asks as soon as possible. Anyone concerned they missed their letter should get help with their renewal using one of the options listed below. 
• Members who did not respond to renewals can still re-open their case three months after it closes if they are still eligible, and they can reapply at any time. 

Although most people are keeping coverage, approximately 240,000 people will lose or have reduced medical benefits and need to consider other coverage options. 

• People who do not have coverage through an employer or Medicare may be able to enroll through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and get financial help. Most people who enroll through HealthCare.gov qualify for this help. 
• The Marketplace is sending information to people who are no longer eligible for OHP benefits, advising of other potential coverage options. 
• People who have recently lost OHP benefits can enroll anytime until November 30, 2024, or within 60 days of their benefits ending. 
• For more information and ways to get help signing up for Marketplace, Medicare, or employer coverage, see “What to do if OHP is ending” below. 

Remaining renewals

Renewal letters will be sent to members in four waves between June and September. Members will still have 90 days to respond, and 60 days’ advance notice before any termination or reduction in benefits. This means the final responses would be due in December 2024, and the final closures will happen in February 2025. 

Data about pandemic unwinding renewals appears in the Medical Redeterminations Dashboard.  The dashboard data and these press releases will not include renewals for OHP members who have already renewed early in the unwinding process, who are coming up for renewal again. Over time, Oregon is switching to renewing most OHP members every two years instead of annually. 

May OHP renewal data

As of May 17, 2024, 1,323,772 people have completed the renewal process. This represents 91.2 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members. 

• 1,085,635 people (82 percent) were renewed and kept their benefits. 
• 224,014 people (16.9 percent) were found ineligible. 
• 14,123 people (1.1 percent) had a reduction in their benefits. Most of these members lost full OHP but were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs that help pay their Medicare costs. 

Need help renewing your benefits?

1. Learn more about how to renew your Oregon Health Plan medical coverage.  You can log into your online portal and complete your redetermination work at benefits.oregon.gov.  
2. Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages. Wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m., PST. 
3. Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx. 
4. Visit a community partner for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp (English) or orhim.info/ayuda (Spanish). 
5. Download the ONE Mobile application via the app store to keep track of your renewal, find a local office, or upload a document. 

What to do if your OHP is ending:

• First, review the case summary in your letter to make sure the information used to make the decision was correct. If that information has changed, notify the state via one of the options above If the information on file for you is correct and you disagree with the decision, you can request a hearing. Learn more about hearings. 
• Explore options through an employer. If you, your spouse or a parent are working, you may be eligible for health coverage through that employer. Talk to your manager or Human Resources department to see if you qualify. You will have a special enrollment period to enroll mid-year due to loss of OHP benefits. 
• If you have or are eligible for Medicare: For help understanding and choosing the right Medicare options, go to https://OregonHealthcare.gov/GetHelp to find an insurance agent or a counselor at the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA). You can also call SHIBA at 800-722-4134. 

If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up. 

• Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians qualify for financial help through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop to answer a few quick questions, find out how much you can save and find out how much coverage may cost you. You can also call the Marketplace Transition Help Center at 833-699-6850 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted). 
• Need free local help finding other coverage? Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find professional help near you. 

OHA and ODHS are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center. 

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Media Advisory

Contact: Emily Halvorson

MORE THAN ONE THOUSAND TINY YELLOW DUCKS FLY INTO DOWNTOWN DIRECTOR PARK

Summer kicks off in Portland this Friday

(Portland, OR) - Celebrate the start of Summer in the City with the first Downtown Ducky Drop at Director Park. 

More than one thousand rubber ducks will be loaded onto a large truck and dropped into Teachers Fountain to signify the beginning of the summer season in downtown Portland. 

This is the official welcome party for the Summer in the City activation series put on by Downtown Portland Clean & Safe to encourage Portlanders and tourists alike to visit Director Park and experience all the amazing events.

Who: Downtown Portland Clean & Safe in partnership with Hoffman Construction and Star Rentals

What: Downtown Ducky Drop

When:  Friday, May 24th 3-6pm/Ducky Drop @ 4pm

Where: Director Park, SW Park Avenue, Portland 97205 

Commissioner Dan Ryan will join the program at 4pm to help count down to the drop of the rubber ducks while also sharing the importance of supporting Portland parks and other activations across the city this summer.

This family-friendly free event includes live music, Nico’s ice cream, gigantic bubbles courtesy of Whimsy Care, and an appearance from entertainer extraordinaire Spencer Sprocket.

Keep an eye out for the Dolly Parton ducky and win a special prize! 

This is just the first of many exciting summer activations at Director Park in downtown Portland, including free yoga, dance competitions, fashion shows and so much more.

Find out what’s happening at the park by checking the Director Park events calendar.

Camas, WA – May 21, 2024 – The Camas School District is thrilled to announce a unique opportunity for our students to engage with NASA Astronaut and Camas native Dr. Michael Barratt. On May 23, 2024, at 1:40 PM, Dr. Barratt will connect live from the International Space Station (ISS) for a special, 25-minute interactive session. This event will be streamed live on YouTube, allowing everyone to join this extraordinary experience.

Dr. Barratt, a Camas High School graduate, is currently part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission, marking his third mission to the ISS. His previous missions were in 2009 and 2011. Dr. Barratt's passion for space and science has roots in his early years in Camas, where he developed a love for astronomy and exploration.

During the live session, students from each school in the Camas School district will ask Dr. Barratt questions about life aboard the ISS, his scientific research, and his journey from Camas to becoming a NASA astronaut. This two-way audio and one-way video downlink will allow the audience to see Dr. Barratt in real time as he shares his experiences orbiting the Earth at over 17,000 miles per hour.

Dr. Barratt's work on the ISS includes a variety of scientific experiments, studying everything from physics and biology to the effects of space on the human body. "Every system in the body changes when it gets into zero gravity — mostly it's the body adapting to get to a place where it wants to be when there's no gravity," Dr. Barratt explained. 

Superintendent John Anzalone expressed his excitement about the event, saying, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students and community to interact with a real-life astronaut who walked the same halls as many of our current students. We are incredibly proud of Dr. Barratt and grateful for his willingness to inspire the next generation of explorers and scientists."

We invite everyone to join this live event on our Public Events page: bit.ly/camaslive. Let's come together to celebrate science, exploration, and the incredible achievements of one of our own.

Event Details:

• Date: May 23, 2024
• Time: 1:10 PM (Time has changed from original 1:40 PM)
• Where: Live at bit.ly/camaslive

About Camas School District

Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where each student experiences belonging and high-quality instruction. Our vision is for students to love to discover, learn, and grow in our community, engaging with curiosity and confidence for their futures.

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Background Information on Dr. Michael Barratt
 

Camas High School Graduate (1977)

Three Missions to the ISS: 2009, 2011, and 2024

Current Role: Part of SpaceX Crew-8 mission on the ISS

Research Focus: Physics, Biology, and the Effects of Space on the Human Body

https://www.nasa.gov/people/michael-reed-barratt/

Join us for this exciting event and be part of a momentous occasion as we connect with space from our classrooms here in Camas.

• Camps, crafts, classes and activities
• Tree climbing, nature camps, sports and much more!
• Fun and affordable activities for children and adults

Salem, Ore. – Learn the basics of wilderness survival, join a Lego® workshop, participate in pickleball and tennis match play, attend basketball camp with new friends – sign up now for these and more City of Salem summer camps and themed adventures.

The City continues to offer popular summer programs from years past such as the summer parks program, as well as some new options this year. All activities are supervised. Browse the 2024 Recreation Guide to discover the many, many fun activities available through the City for all ages.

Workshops, sports, nature and day camps are scheduled throughout the summer.  Evening activities are also available including all-comer track meets, tennis, pickleball and soccer.

Young and old alike will gain new or improved skills and create special summer memories through City activities.

Discover your summer fun and register online, or register in-person at the Salem Customer Service Center, 555 Liberty St. SE, Room 100.

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118TH MULTNOMAH COUNTY FAIR IS THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

IT’S FUN TO HAVE FUN AT THE FAIR!

Join the Friends of Multnomah County Fair for Oregon’s first County Fair of the year this Memorial Day Weekend at Oaks Amusement Park!
• Saturday, May 25, 2024, 12-7 PM
• Sunday, May 26, 2024, 12-7 PM
• Monday, May 27, 2024, 12-7 PM

This year's fair will feature live stage entertainment performances highlighting multicultural acts, family friendly interactive activities,  Jedi Training, FREE Loteria (bingo) games, weiner dog races, hip-hop dancers, Portland Lucha Libre wrestling, local craft vendors, art displays, gardening and craft exhibits, and more! Take your photo with Portland’s own The Minions and Wonka/Oompa Loompa characters and visit the small barn animals that will delight your “littles” and remind them what a county fair is all about! Don’t forget Oaks Park’s thrilling rides, mini golf, midway games, and roller skating too.

Visit multcofair.com for daily event schedules.

Admission to the fair is free. Oaks Park attractions and parking are sold separately.

Check out Multcofair.com for more details.

Lane County, Ore. 19 May 24- On Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 2:30 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-126, near milepost 21.5, in Lane County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Honda CRV, operated by Joella Ann Ewing (83) of Eugene, left the highway for unknown reasons, struck a tree, and landed in an adjacent creek.

The operator of the Honda (Ewing) was injured as a result of the crash and transported to an area hospital.

A passenger in the Honda, Ruth Anne Romoser (80) of Springfield, was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Lane County Sheriff's Office, Eugene Police Department, Western Lane Medics and Fire, Lane Rural Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

 

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.

Interim Police Chief Jamey McDonald and the entire Tigard Police Department would like to thank Tigard voters for supporting the Public Safety Renewal Levy (Measure 34-333) by an overwhelming margin in last night’s election.

As of current election results, the renewal levy is passing with 78% support. First approved by voters in 2020, this renewal preserves our investments in public safety for another five years. Specifically, it allows the Tigard Police Department to retain critical staff members who were hired when the levy first passed, including:

• 8 police (patrol) officers
• 1 School Resource Officer
• 1 Records Specialist
• 1 Property & Evidence Specialist

The renewal of the levy also allows the Department to continue advanced crisis intervention and de-escalation training for all patrol officers.

“I would like to thank Tigard voters for their commitment to the safety of this community by renewing the Public Safety Levy,” said Interim Chief of Police Jamey McDonald. “Thank you for allowing us to continue providing the same level of service you have come to expect from the Tigard Police Department as we move forward. With deep gratitude, thank you Tigard. We appreciate your confidence and support!”

A video message from Interim Chief McDonald is also available here: https://youtu.be/Zrs80Z7Uk7c.  

The City of Tigard’s news release on the passage of the renewal levy can be found here: www.tigard-or.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1143/15. 

The community can learn more about the levy and stay up to date on future progress at www.tigard-or.gov/PublicSafetyRenewalLevy. 

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A man is in custody, facing attempted murder among other charges, after pushing a TriMet rider into the path of an oncoming MAX train.

On Tuesday, May 21, at 4:19 p.m., Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Transit Police Division (TPD) deputies responded to the Providence Park MAX Station near the intersection of SW 17^th Avenue and SW Yamhill Street in Portland. It was reported that a man pushed another man in the path of an oncoming MAX train as he waited at the station. The TriMet operator of the approaching train quickly deployed the emergency braking system and stopped the train before impact. Deputies arrived and contacted the victim who reported only suffering minor injuries. The suspect ran away before deputies arrived.

Approximately 20 minutes later, dispatchers received multiple callers reporting various thefts near the intersection of SW 10^th Avenue and SW Yamhill Street involving a man that matched the description from the earlier incident. Transit Police deputies, along with Portland Police Bureau officers, responded and took the suspect into custody. The suspect is identified as 31-year-old Michael Lynn Moreland. 

Transit Police deputies also determined that the suspect, Moreland, and victim did not know each other.

Moreland is charged with:

• Attempted murder in the second degree
• Attempted assault in the second degree
• Assault in the fourth degree
• Robbery in the third degree
• Criminal mischief in the second degree
• Escape in the third degree
• Disorderly conduct in the second degree
• Interfering with public transportation

The Portland Police Bureau is investigating the thefts that occurred prior to the suspect being arrested. Additional charges may be filed.

Moreland is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. arraignment today, 5/22/2024, in Justice Center courtroom #3.

No further information will be released at this time.

Salem, Ore. – Summer is when the outdoors truly start calling to Oregonians. Oregon Lottery is capturing the spirit of the campers, hikers, adventure seekers, and anglers with a new, Oregon State Park themed Scratch-it. The $5 tickets feature three nostalgic scenes of park landscapes and fishing, have a top prize of $50,000, and are on sale now at Oregon Lottery retailers. 

Lottery game play helps ensure that our state parks are continuously maintained and improved, with State Parks receiving more than $1 billion in Lottery funds since 1999. One example is Champoeg State Heritage Area, a site with a project underway to add more RV campsites and cabins.  

“Oregon State Parks truly put our state on the map, with some of the most scenic, special places in the country,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We’re proud to support State Parks and their impact in our communities across Oregon.”    

The unique tickets also coincide with State Parks Day – celebrated on June 1 with free parking for the 25 parks that charge a parking permit and free RV and tent site camping at all Oregon State Parks. State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their support of the state park system over many decades.

Oregon Lottery is also sponsoring a new program allowing residents to check out a State Parks parking permit from their local library. The passes are currently available in Multnomah, Clackamas, and Washington counties, with more coming online in the summer months. The permits can be checked out physically or digitally. 

“Our collaboration with the Oregon Lottery began in 1999 when Oregonians voted to support Oregon State Parks with lottery proceeds,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Director Lisa Sumption. “We've worked together throughout the years to bring unique recreation opportunities to our visitors and are excited this parking permit program will encourage more people to see our state's beautiful and historic areas without worrying about parking fees.”

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

The Columbia Outboard Racing Association is hosting its annual Sherri Hathaway Memorial Regatta races at Cullaby Lake County Park the weekend of June 15-16, 2024.

The boat ramp and the waters of Cullaby Lake will be closed for racing from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. 

The races are free for the public to view from the park and the park is open for picnicking and other activities, however, there is a $5 day-use parking fee for the County Park entry.

For more information, contact Clatsop County Parks at 503-325-6452.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: May 22, 2024

Detectives arrest one and seize drugs, dozens of guns while executing search warrant

Salem, Ore. — An Aumsville man was arrested as part of a search warrant served early Tuesday morning, May 21. 

Joseph Wallace Blades was arrested without incident at his home in the 11000 block of Silver Falls HW SE after Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit detectives served a search warrant at the location with the assistance of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team.

The search of the residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 250 M30 pills suspected to be fentanyl. Also seized were 36 firearms of varying types, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns, as well as body armor and ammunition. A stolen vehicle was also located on the property.

Blades, age 42, was lodged at the Marion County Jail and will be arraigned at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex on Wednesday, May 22, on the following charges:

• Felon in possession of a weapon, firearm
• Prohibited possession of a firearm, short-barreled shotgun
• Possession of a stolen vehicle
• Felon in possession of body armor

The case remains an active investigation, and given Blades’ arrest status, no further information is available for release.

We thank the Marion County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) for their help in apprehending Blades. Their assistance in the case highlights the collaborative work being done in our region by Salem Police and MCSO to remove illegal firearms from the hands of felons.

# # #

The City of Sherwood has been notified of a pending $5 million grant from the federal Environmental Protection agency to clean up a former tannery site next to the city’s downtown.

“This grant will enable the city to clean up the tannery site that has been an ongoing environmental threat to the Tualatin River Wildlife Refuge,” said Mayor Tim Rosener. “It has the added benefit of allowing us to relocate the public works facility and open up four acres for redevelopment in downtown Sherwood.”

“This redevelopment also holds immense potential for job creation and much-needed middle housing, contributing to our community's economic growth and livability,” the mayor added. “It's a win-win-win situation for Sherwood – an environmental, housing and jobs trifecta.”

EPA and Sherwood will negotiate final terms of the grant. City officials hope to begin the cleanup later this year. The cleanup will involve a 25-acre site formerly occupied by the Frontier Leather Tannery. A portion of the site is in the 100-year Rock Creek floodplain.

The tannery began operations in 1947 using chromium oxide to tan cow and deer hides from local slaughterhouses and split them into halves. The less valuable halves were buried on site. Sludge was discharged into two lagoons on the property.

Frontier Leather also leased a building operated by lead‐acid battery manufacturers from 1956 to 1972, which led to removal of 743 tons of lead‐contaminated soil in the mid‐1990s. A fire nearly destroyed the facility in 1981. Portions were rebuilt and the tannery remained in use until 1998 when Frontier Leather went bankrupt. The former tannery was vacant for nearly 10 years when it burned to the ground in 2006.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality added the site to its Orphan Site List in 2002. Initial assessments identified chromium, lead and other heavy metals in soil and sediment at concentrations exceeding human health and ecological risks. A FY14 EPA Brownfields Site‐Specific Assessment grant funded a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and draft Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives.

Washington County acquired the site through tax foreclosure between 2012 and 2014. Sherwood purchased the site in 2023.

The preferred remedial action includes excavation and off‐site transportation of contaminated soils and sediments with metals concentrations above cleanup levels from the Rock Creek floodplain. Here are details of the cleanup plan.

“With the aid of Brownfields MAC funding, communities can achieve significant and positive outcomes for their neighborhoods and businesses,” said EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Assessing and cleaning up pollution are crucial steps in building thriving, healthy communities.” 

“These federal investments throughout Oregon will convert old brownfields into fresh opportunities for jobs and new catalysts to build our state’s communities into even better places to live and work,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “I’m gratified Oregon has secured these federal resources, and I’ll keep battling to secure additional federal funds that support our economy and quality of life for all Oregonians.”

“Redeveloping brownfield sites and addressing once polluted, abandoned areas gives local economies a boost, protects public health and helps revitalize communities”, said Senator Jeff Merkley. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, funding is headed to communities in Oregon to address this legacy pollution. These critical federal investments will help spur growth in our communities and advance environmental justice, all while creating good jobs.” 

Oaks Park's 3^rd annual Pride Rides celebration is happening from 12-8 PM on Sunday, June 30, 2024, proudly presented by Quantum Fiber!  

Celebrate loving out loud with a day of rides, live entertainers from the LGBTQ+ community, a vendor fair featuring LGBTQ+ owned/operated businesses, special pride-themed games prizes and gift shop merch, free cake and balloons on the midway at 2 PM (while supplies last), a visit from Chipper the Squirrel, and a special Pride Skate night in the roller rink from 7-9:30 PM.  

Ride Bracelets are 30% off when you use the online coupon code PRIDERIDES24 to purchase your bracelets online in advance at oakspark.com/ridetix.

Bracelet discount offer is only available online.  Pride Skate admission sold separately.

Visit oakspark.com for more info!

TVF&R’s Board, Fire Chief, Firefighters, and Personnel Grateful for Community's Continued Support

Voters served by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue have approved Measure 34-332, which will fund 92 existing firefighters and paramedics and will add up to 36 more over five years. Additional responders at existing stations will ensure prompt response times and reliability when multiple incidents happen at the same time. Levy funds will also allow the District to add personnel who train and equip first responders.

Over the past five years, there has been a 17 percent increase in the frequency of emergency incidents in TVF&R’s service area. The District’s growing community and rising demands require more firefighters and paramedics to maintain reliable emergency response.

“We are so humbled by the support that our community has shown us by endorsing our replacement levy,” states Fire Chief Deric Weiss. “We know that our residents work hard and have to make tough decisions about how their money is spent. Our community has consistently told us that their top priority for Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue is fast and effective emergency response. We will continue to use investments wisely to fulfill this commitment. With additional firefighters and paramedics, our network will be stronger and our ability to provide life-saving care will improve.”

The five-year operating levy authorizes a rate of 69 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation and will take effect in November 2025. For the average homeowner in TVF&R’s service area, the cost of the local option levy will be about $210 per year or $17.54 a month.

In addition to staffing, the levy will purchase:

• Specialized equipment used for medical emergencies such as cardiac monitors and defibrillators.
• Critical firefighting tools such as thermal imagers that aid in search and rescue efforts and self-contained breathing apparatus worn by firefighters in burning buildings.
• Vehicles used to fight wildfires, shuttle water, and transport patients.

TVF&R intends to maintain the same levy rate for 10 years, which will help long-term planning, ensure service stability, and provide predictability to taxpayers.

Media are welcome to use images from an informational video: https://www.youtube.com/live/gSkEGUh65ck?si=I2Hb8WEYc6iiE0tM 

# # #

At approximately 1:30 pm on May 21^st, Marion County Fire District #1 responded to reports of a male stuck in a grain silo buried up to his chest.  Upon arrival, responders found a middle-aged male patient conscious and alert in a silo unable to extricate himself.  Rescue 4 and Ladder 4 from Salem Fire Department were requested to assist in the confined space and possible rope rescue. After approx. 3 hours of slow and deliberate maneuvers to create a safe exit from the silo, the patient was extricated and transported to Salem Hospital for evaluation.  

At 3:55 p.m. today, multiple callers reported a crash on the Interstate 5 northbound Nyberg Street off-ramp. Initially, it was reported that one vehicle was on its top, and the driver was entrapped. As Tualatin Police arrived, they communicated to firefighters that multiple vehicles were involved and that a second patient was entrapped in a vehicle that came to rest on its side.

The first-arriving crew assessed the total number of patients and their status to prioritize the most critical. They also pulled a hose line as gas and fumes leaked from multiple vehicles. TVF&R’s truck and heavy rescue crews arrived and focused on the extrication of the two patients who were entrapped in two separate vehicles. Due to the precarious position and proximity of the two vehicles, they worked first to stabilize the vehicles utilizing a system of struts and shoring devices.

Additional fire crews arrived to check and treat patients in the other four vehicles. Thankfully, there were only minor injuries, and no other drivers or passengers required transport.

One of the patients in the overturned vehicle was rapidly extricated and transported to a nearby trauma center in critical condition. The second patient, in the vehicle on its side, required more extensive extrication to remove them from the vehicle safely and was also transported in critical condition.

Oregon State Police will be investigating the cause of the crash. 

TVF&R is grateful for the assistance of the Tualatin Police, American Medical Response, the Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Oregon State Police.

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

On Thursday, May 9, 2024, at approximately 11:45 p.m., Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies responded to Mt. Hood Medical Center where a critically injured victim arrived for medical treatment after being shot.  

Deputies learned that the shooting victim and his passenger were driving in the area of SW 257th AVE and SW 26th ST in Troutdale when an argument occurred between them and an unknown man who was walking along 257th AVE. The unknown man produced a firearm and shot at the victim’s vehicle multiple times.  

The victim was struck in the head at least one time.  Despite being critically injured, the victim was able to quickly get to the hospital with the assistance of his passenger.   

MCSO Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance with this investigation.  Detectives have reason to believe that at least two other people walking in the area witnessed this shooting.  If you have any information about this incident, you are asked to contact MCSO Detective Chris Stephens at is.stephens@mcso.us">chris.stephens@mcso.us, or call the MCSO tip line at 503-988-0560. Reference MCSO case #24-20218. Anyone willing to share information can remain anonymous.

Car enthusiasts and community members are invited to join a special event, "Cruisin' for Salem Firefighters," to celebrate Cozzie's NY Deli and the Salem Fire Foundation's 10th anniversary. The car show will occur on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 9 AM to 3 PM at Cozzie's NY Deli, 3723 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, OR 97302.

The event includes:

• A display of cars of all makes and models
• Salem Fire Department vehicles
• Food available for purchase
• Raffle prizes
• A variety of vendors
• The chance to vote for your favorite car.

Car enthusiasts interested in showcasing their vehicles can register for the event at an early-bird rate of $25 per car until May 31 ($30 after). All proceeds go to the lifesaving work of the nonprofit Salem Fire Foundation. To register a vehicle or as a vendor, visit Cruisin' for Salem Firefighters – Salem Fire Foundation or email office@salemfirefoundation.org.

Free for the public, $25 per car, early bird registration ($30 after May 31), and $40 for vendor spots.

About Salem Fire Foundation: The mission of the Salem Fire Foundation is to improve the health and welfare of the greater Salem community by providing CPR training, increasing public access to automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), and linking trained and equipped public responders to people experiencing a cardiac emergency at their time of need. The foundation also engages with and supports firefighters, dispatchers, and their families. It provides essential equipment, education, and opportunities for community engagement. SalemFireFoundation.org.

About Cozzies NY Deli: Cozzies NY Deli is a wedge sandwich shop in Salem (3723 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE Salem, OR 97302). The owners work hard to bring beloved East Coast sandwiches to the West Coast. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Cozzie's NY Deli continues to be a staple in the Salem community, offering delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. CozziesNYDeli.com.

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Theatre and English departments will present “Fire Season,” a play entirely conceived, written and created by students as the spring mainstage production. This original piece of live performance will reflect an ensemble-based path of inquiry on social justice issues that are most relevant today.

Considering such topics as climate justice and the ways in which Clackamas County was affected by houselessness, food insecurity and the other lingering effects of the forest fires of 2020, “Fire Season” asks, “When is the moment that something changes?” 

Directed by Jessica Wallenfels, with musical direction by Brandon Michael, “Fire Season” features a dynamic ensemble of CCC students, with scenic and lighting design by Chris Whitten, costumes by August Hemlock and prop design by Jennifer Jett. 

“Fire Season” runs May 22-June 2, Wednesdays-Fridays at 10 a.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., and an opening night reception Thursday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.    

Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors (62+) and free for students. Tickets are discounted by $1 if you purchase online. Visit www.clackamas.edu/theatre or call 503-594-3153 for reservations. 

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SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) releases the 2023 Annual Report, “Building Oregon’s Future,” to show and highlight outcomes achieved throughout the state to meet the housing needs of Oregonians with low to moderate incomes.  

“Building Oregon’s Future describes the progress that OHCS has made in delivering results on the strategic goals and challenges facing our housing system,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “The public has placed great trust in OHCS, and we are honoring that trust by delivering results that aim to make everyday life better for the people of Oregon.”  

As the state’s housing agency, OHCS works across the housing continuum to help reduce poverty among Oregonians and increase access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. Some highlights from 2023 include: 

• Over $436 million was allocated to create more than 4,000 affordable rental and homeownership opportunities across the state.  
• OHCS surpassed all three housing goals helping more than 10,000 households and creating over 1,000 shelter beds. 
• OHCS launched seven new data dashboards and reports to show the continued progress. 

“Even as we celebrate the many milestones highlighted in this report, we continue to work tirelessly to create new programs and policies and get funding out to communities as swiftly and efficiently as possible. Working together with our partners across Oregon, we remain relentless, through the lens of humanity, to deliver effective housing solutions for all,” said Bell. 

The report features stories from Oregonians who have received housing assistance through OHCS and its housing partners, like Howard. Howard is an older adult who was able to receive a new manufactured home through the Manufactured Home Replacement Program. His new home is more energy efficient and structurally sound, ensuring he has a safe place to enjoy and live for many years to come.  

The 2023 Annual Report includes many other key data points, stories, program and policy updates, photos, and more. You can read the full report on the OHCS website. 

El comunicado de prensa en español

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Columbia River Gorge Commission. The appointment is for an unexpired term that begins June 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2027. 

There are thirteen commissioners who serve on the Columbia River Gorge Commission. Washington and Oregon Governors appoint three commissioners each, and each of the six counties in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area appoint one commissioner. The counties are Clark, Skamania and Klickitat in Washington and Wasco, Hood River and Multnomah in Oregon. 

The Secretary of Agriculture appoints one non-voting Commissioner. 

Commission members serve four-year terms. Upon expiration of a term, a member can apply again. Members can only serve two consecutive terms. 

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area was approved by Congress in 1986 and the bi-state Gorge Commission was established in 1987 through the Columbia River Gorge Compact. The commission’s mission is to establish, implement and enforce policies and programs that protect and enhance the scenic, natural, recreational and cultural resources of the Columbia River Gorge, as well as support economic development where it is compatible with resource protections. The Gorge Commission works closely with the U.S. Forest Service to implement the National Scenic Area Management Plan. It also serves as a neutral appeals board for land use decisions in the National Scenic Area. The Gorge Commission oversees a bi-state agency with eight full-time staff, located in White Salmon, Wash. 

Volunteers with experience in land use who are interested in the health and wellbeing of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area are encouraged to apply. Please view the Gorge Commission website at www.gorgecommission.org for more information. 

The Gorge Commission meets on the second Tuesday of every month at various locations throughout the Gorge.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov. 

Application deadline is 5 pm Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

More information about the Gorge Commission is available on its website at www.gorgecommission.org/.

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County Department of Public Health has announced the winners of the Escape the Vape Campaign of youth-created videos showing the dangers of vaping.

“I want to give a shout out to all the youth who submitted videos. The quality of work was amazing and you could see that a lot of time and effort was put into the videos. Their creativity was amazing and all did a fantastic job highlighting the dangers of vaping. We also thank our community for showing their support by voting for their favorites,” said Carolina Guerrero-Lara, health promotion specialist.

The five videos with the highest vote count in each age category won cash prizes for the youth and their school. 

6-8th Grade Division

1st: Vaping + Addiction + Bad Habits for Life! (265) 
               Group Name: Clatsop County Revival- Knappa Hilda Lahti Middle School

2nd: Excape the Vape (113)
               Group Name: Team lady glider sparkles- Seaside Middle School 
               
3rd: Under the Disguise (86)
               Group Name: N.H.- Seaside Middle School 
               
4th: Vaping Can Ruin Lives (52)
               Individual Submission Name: Lexie Dickau- Seaside Middle School

5th: Stop Vaping (31)
               Group Name: Lucy and Iris- Astoria Middle School

9-12th Grade Division

1st: Dunk on Vaping (97)
               Group Name: The Ballers.- Knappa High School

2nd: Escape (69)
               Group Name: Team MLG- Knappa High School

3rd: Don’t Wanna Miss This (34)
               Group Name: BAND- Knappa High School

4th: Vaping Kills (30)
               Group Name: JKW- Knappa High School

5th: Screw Vaping: (28)
               Individual Submission Name: Team Mac, Mac Caron- Knappa High School

All youth videos will remain up for public viewing through the end of the year.

Earlier this year, Clatsop County middle and high school-age youth were invited to create and submit a 30-second public service announcement video to educate their peers on the dangers of e-cigarette use, also known as vaping. 
 

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for a volunteer position on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. 

Applications are being accepted for the position representing small cities and towns in Clark County (cities other than Vancouver). Applicants should be a member of one of the city or town councils or a representative who lives or works in those jurisdictions. The three-year term begins immediately upon appointment.

The Solid Waste Advisory Commission holds quarterly meetings at 6 pm on the first Thursday of February, May, August, and November. Special meetings maybe scheduled as needed. Meetings are currently held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual options.

The commission advises the county council and staff on solid waste issues and planning for recycling, garbage collection, landfills, transfer stations and waste-reduction programs. The advisory commission also provides feedback to staff during the update process for the county’s Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan, which is currently underway. Once the update is completed by staff, in coordination with the advisory commission, it will be submitted for approval by the county council and the Washington State Department of Ecology. 

Residents with a passion for waste reduction, education and outreach experience, or experience with multifamily housing are encouraged to apply. As Clark County is a growing and diverse community with many languages and backgrounds, the county is also looking for people who can bring ethnic, cultural, social, and geographic diversity to the group. The commission is committed to inclusiveness and outreach to all Clark County residents to ensure the Solid Waste Advisory Commission reflects the community it serves. 

Candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov. 

The letter of interest should include: 

• How you can represent the interests of the position on the commission 
• Your personal or professional experience
• Your vision for the future of solid waste management in Clark County

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, June 21, 2024. 

Visit the Solid Waste Advisory Commission website for more information or mail SWAC@clark.wa.gov. 

On May 16, over 600 Hockinson School District students and family members gathered in the HHS commons for the Launching Futures College and Career Fair event. The event brought together 94 representatives from local colleges, universities, trade schools, military, and career industries. This is part of a broader initiative to prepare students for Senior Launch Week, a week-long celebration packed with college and career readiness activities leading up to graduation day on June 7, 2024.

“We’re always looking for new ways to provide students with opportunities to explore many different post-secondary pathways,” said Tim Fox, Principal at Hockinson High School. Hockinson School District created a new College and Career Specialist position at the high school this year to support student career exploration, preparation and launch. College in the High School (CiHS) course offerings at Hockinson High School have also expanded in 2023-24. Students can now take up to 35 free university credits at the high school with courses like pre-calculus, environmental science, statistics and more.

“All the reps were really nice. It helped me narrow down some of the things I want to do after high school,” said Skylar Picard, ninth grade student at Hockinson High School.

At over 98%, the graduation rate at Hockinson School District tells a story of student support and success. Graduation rates in Hockinson are higher now than they have been in the last 10 years. “We’re extremely proud of Hockinson students for setting big goals and going after them,” said Superintendent Steve Marshall. 

Career and college exploration begins for Hockinson students in elementary school and culminates with launching postsecondary plans in high school. Hockinson School District models college and career exploration, preparation, and launch in every K-12 grade level.

Career Exploration at Hockinson Heights Elementary School

At Hockinson Heights Elementary School, students explore careers through various interactions with professionals across many career fields. This year, fifth graders met with a range of guest speakers including a sports coach, insurance adjuster, business owner, home care provider, cyber security consultant, and a nurse, while fourth graders learned about environmental careers from the Lower Columbia Estuary. Second and third graders were visited by police officer and firefighter guest speakers, respectively. This spring, fourth graders constructed toolboxes as part of a trades workshop. For fifth grade students, a year of learning about how to start and run a business will culminate with a field trip visit to JA BizTown where students work in a business, earn a paycheck, complete banking activities, and spend money in a mock town this June.

College and Career Preparation at Hockinson Middle School

At the middle school, teachers draw connections between classroom learning and relevant career applications throughout the year. The new middle school science curriculum, Amplify, includes videos about real scientists in the field in each unit of learning. 

Eighth grade students at Hockinson Heights Elementary School will tour Clark College and Washington State University this year. This experience helps students to better visualize what their future plans may look like after high school.

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets May 24 at 10 a.m. at ODF headquarters in Salem, with a virtual option.

The public meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Salem headquarters, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Management Plan (FMP) performance measures
• Prepare testimony for June Board of Forestry meeting

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Questions about accessibility or special accommodations can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 24 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – PeaceHealth is pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished leaders to key positions within the organization. Following a national search, Cherelle Montanye has been named chief hospital executive at PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center in Vancouver, Washington. Kendall Sawa will return to PeaceHealth as chief hospital executive of PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview, Washington, having started his career at PeaceHealth in 1997.

Cherelle Montanye has been an integral part of the PeaceHealth St. John team since 2017, serving as chief administrative officer. Her strategic vision and leadership have played a crucial role in guiding PeaceHealth St. John's performance through the challenges of the pandemic and advancing the organization's key quality and growth initiatives.

Reflecting on her appointment, Montanye shared, “I am energized to join PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center during this exciting time of growth and expansion,” said Cherelle. “I look forward to leading our dedicated caregivers and embracing Southwest and the community."

Kendall Sawa, returning to PeaceHealth from Providence Portland Medical Center, brings a wealth of experience and accomplishments. Notable among his achievements at Providence was leading as interim chief executive of Providence Willamette Falls Hospital.

Prior to his time in Oregon, Sawa spent more than 15 years at PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center, where he established himself as a dedicated and quality-driven leader.

Kendall shared, "I am thrilled to come back to PeaceHealth and contribute to the exceptional care and service provided to our community. I started my career at PeaceHealth in 1997 so this feels like I am returning home.”

"We are thrilled to welcome Cherelle and Kendall to their new roles," said Richard DeCarlo, executive vice president and chief operating officer. “Their leadership and dedication exemplify our PeaceHealth mission, and we look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make within our organization.”

Tillamook, Ore. — Bureau of Land Management leaders announced that the Tillamook Field Office will be moving, June 3. The BLM’s lease at the current facility will expire in June, and the Field Office will relocate to the Port of Tillamook Bay

“Moving an office—just like moving a home—is always a transition,” said Janet Satter, BLM Tillamook Field Manager. “And I want to reassure everyone that we will continue to be available to our customers—to the American public.”

The new location at the Port of Tillamook Bay is just five miles, or a ten-minute drive, from the current BLM office.

Until construction of the new permanent facility at the Port of Tillamook is complete, the Field Office will temporarily relocate to 4000 Blimp Blvd, Suite 380.

“We look forward to welcoming you to our new home,” Satter added.

For the latest information on the upcoming move, call or email the Tillamook Field Office at 503-815-1100 or blm_or_no_mail@blm.gov. The phone number and email address will remain the same throughout the transition.

Information will also be available at the Northwest Oregon District website: https://www.blm.gov/office/northwest-oregon-district-office

GoogleMap of new location at the Port of Tillamook Bay: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aYGNG2ET7XQ2d8x38
 

-BLM-

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver Arts & Music Festival returns to Esther Short Park (W. 8th and Columbia streets) and downtown Vancouver August 2-4. Free and open to all ages, Vancouver Arts & Music Festival features award-winning musicians, visual artists and performers from Vancouver, the region and around the world.

The three-day event hosts three stages, juried art shows, pop-up galleries, dance performances, family activities, food vendors and three concerts by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA (VSO). Hands-on educational activities invite all ages and abilities to learn, explore and experience the joy of connecting with the arts.

There are daily activities for festivalgoers of all ages including vendor booths, art demonstrations and an interactive art piece from muralist Sarah Hunter that will be painted live by the community during the festival. Children will love the caricature artists, doodle walls, roaming entertainers, face painting, balloon art and lawn games set up throughout the festival grounds. Find a masterpiece to take home at the juried art shows on display in the Artists Alley next to City Hall and at the Vancouver Hilton. 

Learn more and view the full lineup at vancouverartsandmusicfestival.com or follow the festival on Instagram at @vancouverartsmusicfest.

Friday, Aug. 2 

Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle opens the festival at noon on the Esther Short Park Community Stage, followed by an exciting Lion Dance performance from the Vietnamese Community of Clark County. Fort Vancouver Pipe Band, Cottage Dance Company, Columbia Dance and Yeates Academy of Irish Dance will highlight diverse dance traditions in Esther Short Park from 1 to 5 p.m.

The Phil Arnold Way Community Stage features an eclectic lineup of local musicians playing music from around the world from noon to 7 p.m. Scheduled performers include Carpathian-Pacific Express, fiddle looper Seth Moran, the Bylines, Bossa PDX and Darling Radio. Local favorites The Juleps will take the stage from 6 to 7 p.m. 

Explore local galleries and businesses with the Vancouver’s Downtown Association First Friday Art Walk starting at 4 p.m.

At 7 p.m. GRAMMY^® Award-winning cello virtuoso Zuill Bailey will perform one of the world’s greatest cello compositions, Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, under the baton of VSO Music Director and Conductor Maestro Salvador Brotons. The performance ends with a bang as the VSO presents Tchaikovsky’s iconic 1812 Overture.

Immediately following the concert, Esther Short Park will be transformed into a theater under the stars for a special screening of the 1961 classic, “West Side Story.”

Saturday, Aug. 3 

The excitement starts at 10 a.m. in Esther Short Park with dance performances from Tahiti, India, Mexico and beyond until 5 p.m. Stop by the Vancouver Farmers Market just outside the park and explore over 250 local art and food vendors. 

The fun continues on the Phil Arnold Way Community Stage (Esther Street and Phil Arnold Way)from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with performances from lively folk band Skamokawa Swamp Opera, family favorite AntsAntsAnts, Bon Bon Vivant, Festival Brass, Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra and the Departures. 

Skyview High School alumnus Michael Siess comes home to Vancouver with multimedia musical group Astral Mixtape at 6 p.m. in Esther Short Park, fusing classical, pop, jazz and immersive staging for a unique concert experience.

The day ends at 7 p.m. as GRAMMY^® and Emmy Award-winning Maestro Gerard Schwarz and the VSO partner with one of the greatest artists of our time, pianist Olga Kern, winner of the historic Gold Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and the only woman in the last 50 years to do so. Mrs. Kern will perform Beethoven’s grandiose Piano Concerto No. 5, commonly known as the “Emperor Concerto.” After the intermission, Maestro Schwarz will lead the VSO in a performance of one of the most beloved and famous musical compositions, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.

Sunday, Aug. 4

The last day of the festival begins at 10 a.m. with performances in Esther Short Park by Shaun Keylock and Conduit Dance, choreographed by Jessica Hightower. Then catch award-winning Native American flute performer Dr. Sherrie Davis and her band Global Fusion, followed by Portland’s Opera on Tap. 

Grab your dancing shoes and head over to the Phil Arnold Way Community Stage from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a performance by local country-classic rock crossover band, River Divide. 

The final matinee features Maestro Gerard Schwarz conducting the VSO with a tribute to the legendary American composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein on the Esther Short Park main stage. Inspired by the recently released biopic “Maestro,” Gerard Schwarz and the VSO will perform Bernstein’s iconic masterworks, including Suite from West Side Story and more.  

The Vancouver Arts & Music Festival is presented by the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA and M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, with support from United Grain and OPB. Columbia Arts Network is administering the juried art shows and fine art vendors on behalf of the festival.

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About the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO) 

The VSO, now in its 46^th season, has been a cornerstone of Southwest Washington's arts community, providing symphony music of the highest caliber in live performances and through music education in schools, concert halls, and throughout the community. For more information, please visit vancouversymphony.org.

About Vancouver, Washington

Vancouver, Washington sits on the north bank of the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Oregon. The Pacific Coast is less than 90 miles to the west. The Cascade Mountain Range rises on the east. Vancouver combines the excitement of a major metropolitan area with small-town charm and abundant recreational opportunities. Learn more at cityofvancouver.us. 

How would highly capable (Hi-Cap) elementary students reduce Taylor Swift’s carbon footprint? Or tackle ocean pollution? What about community hunger? Kelso School District 2^nd – 5^th graders will be answering those and other questions at the Hi-Cap Problem-Solvers’ EXPO on May 29 from 6:00 – 7:00 PM in the Kelso High School library. 

The EXPO is part of an optional independent study project giving Hi-Cap elementary students an opportunity to dig deeply into a topic of their choice. Focusing on real-world problem-solving, this project encourages deeper thinking, lays the groundwork for active and responsible citizens, and prepares students for scholarly competition. 

Over 24 students from 6 Kelso elementary schools will be participating. Each student will have a table with information about the problem they are solving and two possible solutions: one using an unlimited budget, and one with a more fiscally realistic solution. All their research and notes will be on display in a 3-ring binder alongside a jar with 10 or more questions students are prepared to answer about their project and solutions.

Problems include: 

• Ocean pollution
• Exotic animals as pets and its long-term impacts
• Endangered whales
• Reducing Taylor Swift’s carbon footprint
• Pesticide effects on the bee population
• Investing in video games vs. education
• Reducing hunger in our community
• Plastic in our environment
• Reducing video game playing time for kids

The event is free and open to the community. 

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.  When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).