Regional News Archives for 2016-03

Police: Arrest Made After 15 Lbs. Of Meth Found In Car

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A 24-year-old man is behind bars, after police say he was found to be in possession of nearly 15 pounds of methamphetamine.  Bail is set at 50-thousand dollars for Jose Ignacio Reyes-Morfin, who's been booked into the Washington County Jail.  Police say a drug dog found the meth, wrapped in a blanket, in the trunk of the car Reyes-Morfin was driving when he was pulled over Tuesday in Hillsboro.

Two Arrested Following Stabbing Near Portland City Target

(Portland, OR)  --  Two suspects are in custody, after a woman was stabbed near the Portland City Target store.  Police say the stabbing took place around one o'clock yesterday afternoon at Southwest 10th and Alder.  Authorities later arrested a man and a woman after getting descriptions of the suspects.  Police say the victim was hospitalized, as was the woman who was later arrested.

Body Of Hiker On Mt. Rainier Tentatively Identified

(Tacoma, WA)  --  Officials say they've tentatively identified the body of a hiker who got lost on Mount Rainier after being caught in a storm during the weekend.  The body is believed to be that of 58-year-old Arvid Lahti of Norway, who's being described as an experienced climber who scaled some of the world's highest peaks.  The body was airlifted off Mount Rainier yesterday to the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office, who will officially determine the man's identity.  Crews had been trying to reach the body since Sunday.
 

WA Lawmaker Critical Of Budget Provision For Inmate Education

(Olympia, WA)  --  A Washington lawmaker says he recently voted against the supplemental budget because it contains a provision for free college education for prison inmates.  Republican Senator Mike Padden of Spokane Valley says the item provides that the state will support post-secondary education programs for inmates while they're in prison.  Padden told KHQ-TV that it sends a message that if you commit a crime, you may have more of an opportunity to get a college education than somebody who's low income or can't receive financial aid.  The provision is slated to continue for the duration of the supplemental budget, which is two years.

Uber, Lyft, Wingz To Offer Rides To Sea-Tac Passengers

(SeaTac, WA)  --  Passengers going through SeaTac Airport will now have the option of using Uber, Lyft, or Wingz to catch a ride.  The "Seattle Times" reports the ride-share companies are participating in a one-year pilot program that will allow them to pick up passengers at the airport.  It's part of an agreement with the Port of Seattle, who will charge each ride-share a five-dollar fee for each pickup.

Bicyclist Seriously Injured In Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating a crash that left a bicyclist seriously injured in North Portland.  Officials say the cyclist was hit around 7:20 yesterday evening at the intersection of North Rosa Parks Way and Delaware Avenue.  The male victim was treated by emergency crews and taken to a hospital.  Police say the driver of the car cooperated with the investigation.

Windshield Shattered By Brick Thrown From Overpass

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say a brick thrown or dropped from the 12th Avenue overpass to Interstate 84 below shattered the windshield of a passing pickup truck.  Authorities say no one was injured, despite shards of glass being scattered by the impact around ten o'clock Tuesday night.  Several people were inside the pickup at the time.  Police say it's the second time within a month a falling object shattered a windshield on I-84.

Ex-Kelley Employee Testifies During Auditor's Trial

(Tacoma, WA)  --  Testimony continues in the federal trial of Washington State Auditor Troy Kelley.  An employee of Kelley's former real-estate services firm, Jason JeRue, testified yesterday that a distressed Kelley called him one day and directed JeRue to start writing refund checks to homeowners.  Prosecutors are alleging that Kelley pocketed about three-million dollars in fees he was supposed to refund homeowners.  Kelley's attorneys argue that their client was entitled to keep the money.

Powerball Jackpot Rolls Over

(Salem, OR)  --  The Powerball grand prize continues to climb.  There were no jackpot winners in last night's drawing, so the top prize will be an estimated 135-million dollars for the drawing Saturday night.  The cash option will be nearly 88-million.

Two-alarm Fire Reported In West Linn

(West Linn, OR)  --  Firefighters are at the scene of a two-alarm blaze that's caused damage to a barn in West Linn.  The fire was reported shortly after two o'clock this morning in the 24-thousand block of Southwest Mountain Road.  No injuries have been reported.  KOIN-TV reports three agencies are involved in fighting the fire.

Massage Therapist Facing Sexual-abuse Charges Indicted Again

(Portland, OR)  --  A massage therapist who's accused of sexually abusing clients is facing additional charges.  A Multnomah County grand jury has issued a second indictment against 32-year-old Benjamin Thomas Collura.  Yesterday's indictment claims there are now seven alleged victims involved in the case against Collura.  He was arrested earlier this month after a report that one of his clients had been sexually abused.

Special Session Ends After Budget Passes

(Olympia, WA)  --  A supplemental budget is on its way to Washington Governor Inslee's desk, after receiving final legislative approval.  House and Senate leaders announced a compromise plan during the weekend, and lawmakers were able to adjourn the special session last night after approving the package and finishing business on a few other bills.  The supplemental budget includes money to pay for the costs of fighting last year's wildfires, and sets aside about 46-million dollars in marijuana-tax revenue to fund health care and medical clinics for low-income patients.

Inslee Bans State Travel To North Carolina Over Transgender Law

(Olympia, WA)  --  Governor Jay Inslee is ordering Washington state employees not to travel on state business to North Carolina.  The governor says that state's new law, which prohibits schools from allowing transgender students use restrooms that match their gender identity, is discriminatory.  Inslee says the policy promoted by North Carolina isn't in line with Washington state's values.  The travel ban applies to cabinet-level agencies that fall under the governor's authority, but doesn't apply to agencies run by independently-elected officials.

Area Gas Prices Steady

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A reports little change in Portland-area gas prices.  The current average is two-17 a gallon, which is steady from yesterday.  It's also about two cents higher than a week ago.

Pedestrian Seriously Injured In SE Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  A pedestrian is being treated for serious injuries, after he was hit by a car in Southeast Portland.  The crash happened around 6:40 p.m. last night at the intersection of Southeast Division Street and 143rd Avenue.  Police say the man's injuries could be life-threatening.  The woman who drove the vehicle stayed at the scene of the crash and cooperated with police.

Police ID 10-year-old Boy Killed By Car In Gresham

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police say a crash that killed a fifth-grader was accidental.  Ten-year-old Jafaar Shbeb died Monday after he was hit by a car at the intersection of 162nd Avenue and East Burnside Street.  Police say the driver who hit the boy won't face criminal charges.  Jafaar was a student at Glenfair Elementary School in Gresham.

Rare Leopard Euthanized At Oregon Zoo

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials at the Oregon Zoo in Portland say a rare leopard, thought to be one of the oldest among her species, has been euthanized.  Kia was a 20-year-old Amur [[ ah-MOOR ]] leopard who had been a resident of the Oregon Zoo since 2007.  Zoo curator Amy Cutting says Kia was diagnosed in 2014 with kidney disease and the big cat's condition was deteriorating lately.  There are reported to be fewer than 300 Amur leopards left in the world, with between 50 and 70 living in the wild.

Boeing To Trim 4,000 jobs

(Seattle, WA)  --  The Boeing Company says it intends to cut about four-thousand jobs in Washington state by June.  The "Seattle Times" reports that number could double by the end of this year.  Boeing officials say the company is making fundamental changes that include non-labor cost savings, supply chain savings, and reduced staffing levels.  The company says strong competition from Airbus has made it necessary for Boeing to make such adjustments.  Boeing employs about 78-thousand people in Washington.

Powerball Drawing For $116 Million Top Prize

(Salem, OR)  --  The top prize in tonight's Powerball drawing is well past the 100-million-dollar mark.  The jackpot has risen to an estimated 116-million, with a cash option of more than 75-million dollars.  The last winning ticket for a Powerball grand prize was sold in Florida for the January 2nd drawing, and worth more than 291-million dollars.   
 

Oregon Man Killed During Bike Race In Washington

(Auburn, WA)  --  Authorities in Washington say an Oregon man was killed during a bicycle race in Auburn.  Officials say the 29-year-old man from Albany was critically injured when he lost control of his bicycle and crashed into a guardrail near Flaming Geyser State Park.  He died later at a hospital.  The man's name hasn't been made public.
 

Body Of Plane Crash Victim Recovered Near Astoria

(Astoria, OR)  --  Clatsop County authorities say the body of a woman who was a passenger in a plane that crashed near Astoria has been recovered.  Sheriff's deputies say the body of 63-year-old Irene Mustain of Woodland, Washington was found in the wreckage of the 1941 North American AT-6 plane.  The aircraft went down last Wednesday in the Columbia River.  The body of the pilot, former Clark County Commissioner John McKibbin, was recovered Friday.

Steelhead License-plate Bill Signed Into Law

(Olympia, WA)  --  A new law will boost efforts to conserve populations of wild steelhead in Washington.  Governor Jay Inslee has signed a measure that will create a specialty license plate containing an image of the fish.  The sales of the plate will go toward efforts to conserve the wild steelhead, which is listed for protection under the federal Endangered Species Act.  The Legislature approved the license plate after more than four-thousand signatures were collected by conservationists from people who expressed interest in buying the plates.

Gas Prices Move Up

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is still on the rise in Portland.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-17 a gallon, a half-cent above yesterday's average.  It's also two cents a gallon higher than a week ago.

11-Year-Old Boy Killed By Car At Gresham Intersection

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police are investigating after an eleven-year-old boy was struck and killed by a car.  Authorities say the boy was hit around 4:15 yesterday afternoon in the area of Northeast 162nd and Burnside while the boy was playing with other kids.  The boy's name hasn't been released.  Police say the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation.

House, Senate Reach Budget Agreement

(Olympia, WA)  --  Details on a supplemental-budget agreement between the Washington House and Senate will be revealed later today.  Legislative leaders announced the agreement yesterday, ending an ongoing deadlock on an update to the state's two-year budget.  The package includes more funding for mental-health care and coverage of costs for fighting last year's wildfires across Washington.  The Legislature is expected to vote today on the budget agreement and wind down the special session.

Two Injured In SE Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Two people are injured, one seriously, following a two-vehicle crash in southeast Portland.  The wreck happened around 1:30 yesterday morning on Southeast McLoughlin Boulevard near Reedway Street.  Police say a woman was driving south in the northbound lane of McLoughlin when she attempted to turn around and was hit by the driver of the second car, which then slammed into a tree.  Authorities say the driver of the second car was seriously injured and the woman suffered minor injuries.

Senate Starts Override Of Inslee Vetoes

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington Governor Jay Inslee says now that lawmakers have resolved their budget impasse, he has no objection to them overriding his vetoes.  The governor vetoed 27 bills earlier this month, following through with his threat to veto measures if lawmakers didn't come up with an agreement on a supplemental budget.  Inslee said those bills weren't necessary for public health or safety.  Yesterday, the Senate began the process of overriding the vetoes and sending the measures to the House.

Easter Egg Hunt Interrupted By Pot Bust

(Salmon Creek, WA)  --  It was an Easter Egg hunt that won't likely be forgotten soon.  The family event was taking place yesterday morning in the Clark County town of Salmon Creek when sheriff's deputies responded after a man screamed that his roommates were going to shoot him.  Officials say the deputies found what appears to be the headquarters for a large-scale, unlicensed marijuana distribution operation in the 13-thousand-300 block of Northeast 3rd Court in Salmon Creek, along with 45 pounds of processed marijuana and more than 100-thousand dollars in cash.  Deputies arrested three Vancouver men and booked them into the Clark County Jail.

Easter Services Held At Vandalized Church

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Police are trying to find those responsible for breaking into a Hillsboro church and vandalizing it.  Officials at the City Gate Church say Easter services were held yesterday, despite the building being ransacked Friday, with burglars destroying numerous Easter decorations and treats that had been put out for Saturday's scheduled Easter egg hunt.  Guitars and sound equipment were also stolen from the church.  Pastor Kristina Lackie told KPTV that neighbors donated musical instruments, along with Easter baskets and candy to the church, and nearby businesses also provided donations.

Baby Left In Garbage Bin Reportedly In Stable Condition

(Everett, WA)  --  Authorities say a newborn child who was found in a garbage bin at an apartment complex in Everett, Washington is in stable condition.  The infant was found around 8:30 Friday night in the dumpster at the Mirabella Apartments on 112th Street Southeast.  Police are hoping someone with information helpful to investigators will come forward.

Man Seriously Injured In Crash

(Clackamas, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies are investigating, after a man was hit by a car at an entrance of a Fred Meyer store in Clackamas.  The crash took place around 8:15 Saturday night after the man walked across Southeast 82nd toward the store.  Deputies say witnesses reported the car had the right of way.  The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with deputies.

Gas Prices Steady

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices in the Portland area are steady from yesterday.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for a gallon of regular at two-16, two-and-a-half cents above the average at this time last week.  The national average for regular is two-oh-four a gallon.

Two Killed By Amtrak Train Near Oregon City

(Oregon City, OR)  --  Two people are dead, after being hit by an Amtrak Train near Oregon City.  Amtrak officials say the incident happened yesterday morning as Cascades train Number 56 was heading to Eugene from Portland.  The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office says the investigation indicates the deaths were suicides.  No names have been released.  Officials say no one aboard the train was injured.

ATM Stolen During Smoke-shop Robbery

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police are looking for two thieves who stole an automatic teller machine during a robbery at a smoke shop.  Authorities say the All Stop Discount Pipes & Tobacco store on Northeast Burnside Road was closed early yesterday morning when the thieves broke in.  The robbers, both wearing dark-colored hoodies, are seen on surveillance video grabbing the ATM and carrying it out of the store.

WA Transportation Budget Signed By Inslee

(Olympia, WA)  --  The supplemental transportation budget is one of the measures signed into law by Washington Governor Jay Inslee before the Easter weekend.  The package includes five-million dollars for pay raises for Washington State Patrol troopers.  It also contains funding for the Department of Licensing to meet increased demand for enhanced driver's licenses that meet federal standards for confirming identity and citizenship.  About 45-million dollars will be spent on measures to relieve congestion on Interstate 405, including the addition of lanes.

Powerball Jackpot Hits $116 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  The Powerball jackpot is still growing.  The weekend drawing produced no jackpot winners, so the grand prize will be an estimated 116-million dollars for the drawing Wednesday night.  The cash option will be more than 75-million.

Rape Suspect Had Recently Been Released From Prison

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say a Portland man who's suspected of sexually assaulting a woman in the Springwater Corridor in Gresham was released from prison on parole last August.  Officials say 50-year-old Thomas Peacock, who was convicted in 1989 for attempted murder, is accused of attacking a 22-year-old Portland woman who had stopped to change a flat bike tire on the path near Southwest Highland Drive.  Police say Peacock was arrested yesterday near the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge in southeast Portland.  His bail is set at one-million dollars.
 

Sanders To Campaign In Portland

(Spokane, WA)  --  Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders says he's the candidate most likely to defeat Donald Trump, should the Republican candidate receive his party's nomination.  Sanders made his second visit within a week to Spokane, appearing yesterday afternoon before a crowd of about three-thousand at the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena.  The Vermont senator will be in Portland for a rally today at the Moda Center, with the event scheduled to begin at 9:45 this morning.  Sanders will be back in Seattle later today, to campaign at Safeco Field ahead of tomorrow's state Democratic Party caucuses.

WA Lawmakers Still Have No Budget Agreement

(Olympia, WA)  --  It appears the Washington State Legislature won't be back at work on negotiating the supplemental budget until after the Easter holiday weekend.  Lawmakers are halfway through the 30-day special session and haven't yet come to terms.  A budget needs to receive final legislative approval by April 9th, or another special session will be called.
 

Gas Prices Slightly Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  Drivers in the Portland area are paying slightly more today for gasoline.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-16 a gallon, a half-cent higher than yesterday's average.  It's also three cents a gallon above the average at this time last week.
 

Two Killed, 2 Injured In Marion County Fire

(Marion County, OR)  --  Two people are dead and two are injured, following a fire at a mobile home in Marion County.  Sheriff's deputies say the blaze was reported around 4:45 yesterday morning at the home in the 26-hundred block of Silverfalls Highway Southeast.  Authorities say a woman and a juvenile male were found dead inside the mobile home, and a man and a juvenile male were taken to the hospital.  Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the fire.
 

Commission Nixes Petitions To Repeal Transgender Bathroom Rule

(Seattle, WA)  --  A Washington state rule that allows transgender people to use public restrooms and locker rooms of the gender they identify with will remain in place.  The Washington State Human Rights Commission has rejected two petitions seeking to repeal the rule.  Opponents of the rule say predators might abuse it and put the safety of women and children in jeopardy.  The commission voted last night in Seattle to reject the petitions.

Police: "Man In Tree" Lived In Portland As Of 2015

(Portland, OR)  --  Multnomah County records show the so-called "Man In Tree" who perched atop an 80-foot Sequoia in downtown Seattle for 25 hours lived in Portland as of last year.  KATU-TV reports Cody Lee Miller was arrested in Portland in December for criminal mischief and disorderly conduct.  Miller, after he climbed down from the tree Wednesday, was taken to a hospital for a medical and mental evaluation, and later was arrested for malicious mischief.  Miller was due in court in Seattle yesterday, but officials say he refused to leave his jail cell.

Washington Man Claims Big Mega Millions Prize

(Olympia, WA)  --  Lottery officials say a Washington man has claimed the Mega Millions prize he won in the March 8th drawing.  The winning ticket was sold in West Seattle, and Michael Burkett came forward yesterday to claim the 157-million-dollar jackpot.  Burkett chose to collect the optional lump sum of 102-point-eight-million, before taxes.  By the way, tomorrow night's Powerball drawing is for an estimated grand prize of 101-million dollars.

Sanders Scheduled To Appear At Moda Center

(Portland, OR)  --  Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders is adding a visit to Portland to his scheduled return to the Northwest.  The Vermont senator is slated to hold a rally tomorrow at the Moda Center at 9:45 in the morning.  He'll hold a rally tomorrow afternoon at Safeco Field in Seattle.  Sanders will be back in Spokane today for a rally at the Spokane Arena, and is scheduled to appear at the Yakima Valley SunDome at four o'clock this afternoon.

Retirement-center Owner Accused Of Sexual Abuse Facing New Charges

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A man who's accused of committing sexual abuse at the retirement center he owns is facing new charges.  Police say more alleged victims have come forward to claim they were abused by Herbert "Howard" Sahnow, owner of "The Elms" retirement community located on Elm Street in Hillboro.  He was indicted on February 22nd and was released after posting bail.  Sahnow was indicted again on March 14th, and is now facing a total of three-dozen counts.

Man Climbs Down From Tree In Downtown Seattle

(Seattle, WA)  --  The so-called "Man in Tree" is now back down to earth.  After more than 24 hours atop an 80-foot Sequoia next to the 4th Avenue Macy's in downtown Seattle, the man finally climbed down yesterday.  After he went up the tree Wednesday morning, police and firefighters tried unsuccessfully to talk him down, and he responded by tossing tree branches in their direction.  Traffic was blocked off Wednesday in the area of the Macy's as negotiations dragged on.  The man was taken yesterday to a hospital for a medical and mental evaluation.

Sweet Home Man Killed In Highway 20 Crash

(Sweet Home, OR)  --  Oregon State Police say an elderly man died in a crash on Highway 20 in Linn County.  Troopers say the man crashed into a stopped tractor-trailer rig around 3:30 yesterday afternoon.  Police say the rig had stopped to yield to a passing train.  Authorities say 80-year-old Elmer Fry died at the scene. 

Fuel Prices Still Rising

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are still climbing in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the current average for regular is two-16 a gallon.  That's a half-cent higher than yesterday's average, and three-and-a-half cents above the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-01 a gallon.
 

Cleanup Continues At Oregon Wildlife Refuge Buildings

(Burns, OR)  --  Cleanup continues at the visitors' center at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, after the 41-day occupation by armed activists that ended last month.  Photos taken of the compound following the occupation were released yesterday, showing garbage strewn in offices, damaged equipment, and a trench on the refuge grounds that had been dug with an excavator and contained human waste.  Officials say the plumbing at the compound was clogged, and there's currently no running water or functioning toilets.  Crews are working to get the visitors' center re-opened by early this summer.

Teen Injured In Fall On Angel's Rest Trailhead

(Multnomah County, OR)  --  A teenager from Troutdale is being treated for serious injuries, after suffering a fall while hiking near the top of Angel's Rest trailhead.  Authorities say the 16-year-old Centennial High School student fell 50 to 100 feet yesterday while walking with a large group of hikers.  Coast Guard officials say an off-duty paramedic and emergency room doctor, who were hiking nearby, stabilized the teen.  He's reported to have suffered head trauma and possibly a spinal injury.

WA State Prisons IT Chief Resigns

(Olympia, WA)  --  The Washington State Department of Corrections is looking for a new IT chief.  Ira Feuer, who was in charge of the department's information technology for about a year, has resigned.  Officials say Feuer's departure is not part of any disciplinary action taken at the department as a result of the improper early release of thousands of prisoners in Washington.  "The Olympian" quotes a spokeswoman for Governor Jay Inslee as saying Feuer told investigators about the programming problem that caused the releases and took steps to get it resolved.

Washington Jobless Rate Remains At 5.8 Percent

(Olympia, WA)  --  State officials say the unemployment rate in Washington was five-point-eight percent in February, unchanged from the month before.  The Employment Security Department says the state added ten-thousand-600 non-farm jobs on a seasonally-adjusted basis from January to February.  Leisure & hospitality, professional business services, and retail showed the strongest gains.

Police: Woman Fights Off Potential Rapist

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vancouver police are looking for a suspect, following a report of an attempted rape.  Authorities say a man entered a woman's home on Northeast 26th Street yesterday afternoon and tried to sexually assault her.  The woman told police she hit the man with a hammer and he fled the premises on foot.  Police conducted a search of the area shortly afterward, but found no sign of the suspect.

Man Arrested In Escort Sting

(West Linn, OR)  --  West Linn police say they've arrested a man after he responded to an escort ad posted by a police training class on human trafficking.  Authorities say Rene Cruz Mesa of Woodburn was taken into custody after agreeing to meet a fictitious woman for a tryst.  Police say the woman posing as the escort told Mesa to meet her at the address for the West Linn Police Department.  Officials say Mesa was met at the police department by officers, then cited for prostitution and released.

Washington County Deputy Pleads Guilty To Harassment

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A Washington County sheriff's deputy will retire, following a plea agreement that includes a harassment conviction.  The sheriff's office says former Deputy David Bergquist was one of several deputies investigated for misconduct regarding an anonymous email that was sent to the agency last year.  Authorities say the investigation also showed Bergquist had engaged in inappropriate conduct while off duty.  The plea deal will also require Bergquist to complete 18 months of probation and 24 hours of community service, plus relinquish his police certifications.

Security Stepped Up At PDX Following Brussels Attacks

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say additional security measures are being taken at Portland International Airport, following the deadly terror attacks in Belgium.  Police patrols at the airport have been stepped up, and transit police have placed both uniformed and plainclothes officers on MAX trains.  Afternoon transit supervisor, Lieutenant Tony Silva told KPTV there's no evidence of a local threat, but dogs trained to detect explosives were deployed as a precaution.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  Fuel prices are still heading upward in the Portland metro.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-15 a gallon, a half-cent higher than yesterday.  It's also more than four cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Man Rescued From Willamette River

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is in a hospital, after being rescued from the Willamette River in Portland.  Officials say firefighters used a boat to reach the man, who was struggling yesterday evening to stay afloat in the river.  The firefighters were dispatched after a report of a van parked on the Marquam Bridge and someone going into the river.  The man, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

Oregon Occupier Charged With Damaging Tribal Lands Still At Large

(Portland, OR)  --  A Montana man involved in the armed occupation of an Oregon wildlife refuge remains on the run after being indicted on federal charges which include damaging tribal lands.  Officials say Jake Ryan and another protester damaged an archaeological site considered sacred to the Burns Paiute Tribe.  Ryan is one of two defendants indicted on charges stemming from the 41-day standoff at the Malhuer National Wildlife Refuge who have yet to be arrested.  A Facebook message supposedly from Ryan's family asked for continued moral support.

Sanders To Attend Rallies In Yakima, Seattle

(Yakima, WA)  --  Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders will return to Washington tomorrow, for a campaign rally in Yakima.  He's slated to be at the Yakima Valley SunDome for the four p.m. event.  On Friday, the Vermont senator will hold another four p.m. rally at Safeco Field in Seattle, a day ahead of the Democratic caucuses in Washington.  Sanders visited Washington last Sunday, making campaign appearances in Vancouver, Seattle, and Spokane.

Clinton Campaigns In Washington

(Seattle, WA)  --  Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is hoping to pick up more delegates during Saturday's Democratic presidential caucuses in Washington, after making campaign stops yesterday in the Western region of the state.  Clinton met with tribal leaders in Puyallup after stopping at the International Association of Machinists District Lodge 751 in Everett.  She later held a rally before an enthusiastic crowd at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle, following a private fundraiser in Medina [[ muh-DYE-nuh ]].  Clinton picked up a win last night in Arizona, but her Democratic opponent, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, won in Idaho and Utah.

Woman Dies After Jumping Off NW Portland Building

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a 43-year-old woman died after jumping off a building in Northwest Portland.  Authorities say the woman was taken to a hospital after she jumped from the building in the 22-hundred block of West Burnside around 9:30 yesterday morning.  She later died during treatment.  Police say the woman, whose name hasn't been released, had struggled with mental-health problems.

Portland Man Dies In Clatsop County Crash

(Clatsop County, OR)  --  Oregon State Police say a Portland man was killed in a weekend crash in Clatsop County.  Troopers say 63-year-old Paul Kipp died at the scene Saturday, after his vehicle traveled off the roadway on U.S. Highway 101 and crashed into a group of trees.  Police say excessive speed appears to have been a factor.

Budget Issues Still Unresolved

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington's Democratic-led House and Republican-led Senate are still working to settle issues with the state's supplemental budget.  One of those issues is a House proposal to raise the starting salary for new teachers to help improve recruitment and retention of educators.  Republicans have said they want to wait to address teachers' salaries next year, when lawmakers are expected to change the state's approach to paying teachers.  Today is the 13th day of the 30-day special session.

OHSU Study Shows Antibodies Kill HIV In Baby Monkeys

(Portland, OR)  --  Researchers at the Oregon Health & Science University's Oregon National Primate Research Center say results of a clinical trial looking at the effect of a genetically-engineered antibody that attacks HIV have been promising.  The trial involved baby moneys infected with a version of HIV.  Researchers say the monkeys were later given the genetically-engineered antibodies, which killed the virus.  Scientists hope the discovery will eventually save the lives of human babies infected with HIV.

Fuel Prices Still Climbing In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  Drivers in the Portland area are still seeing gas prices rise.  The latest survey by Triple-A shows the average for regular is two-15 a gallon, up a penny from yesterday's average.  It's also six cents a gallon higher than at this time last week.

Governor Brown Endorses Clinton For President

(Portland, OR)  --  Governor Kate Brown is endorsing Hillary Clinton for president.  The governor made her support official yesterday, as former President Bill Clinton made a stop at Powell's City of Books in downtown Portland.  Brown says she and the former secretary of state "share a bold, progressive agenda" that ensures everyone has the same opportunity to succeed.  
 

Clintons To Campaign In Washington

(Tacoma, WA)  --  Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton will have a full slate of campaign stops today in Washington.  She'll be in Everett to give a speech at the International Association of Machinists District Lodge 751 this afternoon.  The former secretary of state will later meet with tribal leaders in Puyallup, hold a rally at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle, and attend a private fundraiser in Medina [[ muh-DINE-uh ]].  Former President Bill Clinton campaigned yesterday for his wife in Vancouver at the Clark College Student Union.
 

Hit-and-run In Milwaukie Injures One

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  A man is facing a DUII charge, following a hit-and-run crash that injured one person in Milwaukie.  The wreck happened on Oatfield Road yesterday afternoon.  Sheriff's deputies say one person was seriously injured, and is being treated at a Portland hospital.  A 19-year-old driver who was involved in the three-vehicle crash was taken into custody.

One Shot Outside Keizer Convenience Store

(Keizer, OR)  --  One person has been arrested, following a shooting in the parking lot of a convenience store in Keizer.  Police say the shooting happened around 1:30 yesterday afternoon at the Bi-Mart on River Road North.  The victim was rushed to a Salem hospital, but there's no word on that person's condition.  The suspect was arrested.  No names have been released.
 

Former President Clinton To Campaign For Hillary In Vancouver

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vancouver is scheduled for a visit tomorrow by former President Bill Clinton, who will campaign for his wife, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.  The ex-president is slated to appear at the home of Vancouver residents Craig Hartzman and Jim Johns.  The event is scheduled to begin at five o'clock tomorrow afternoon, with doors to open at 4:15.  The Washington state Democratic caucuses will be held this Saturday.

Police: Woman Sexually Assaulted On Springwater Trail

(Gresham, OR)  --  Police are investigating a report of a sexual assault on the Springwater Trail in Gresham.  Authorities say a 22-year-old Portland woman reported being assaulted on the trail which she was traveling by bicycle off Southwest Highland Drive on March 18th.  The woman told investigators she was attacked by a man she had flagged down after her tire went flat.  Police say the suspect is described as a bald white man in his 40s, with a medium build, six-feet-two, clean shaven, and wearing a red jacket, blue jeans, and carrying a dark-colored backpack.

Pedestrian Injured In Hit-and-run

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A suspect is in custody, following a hit-and-run crash that seriously injured a pedestrian in Vancouver.  Police say the crash took place in the four-thousand block of 131st Street around one o'clock yesterday morning.  Authorities say the suspect, Treven Perry, was arrested after the vehicle involved in the crash was found about a mile away from the crash scene.  Police say the victim is expected to survive.

Man Accused Of Attacking Deputies

(Cornelius, OR)  --  A Cornelius man is facing charges, after being accused of attacking Washington County sheriff's deputies.  Authorities say 51-year-old Warren Fleming was attempting to tow a truck parked in front of his home on South Palmetto Way Friday when it came loose and hit a tree in a neighbor's yard.  Deputies say after they arrived at the scene, Fleming became belligerent and fought with them.  Officials say Fleming was arrested and charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest.

Bicyclist Killed In SE Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a 17-year-old bicyclist died in a crash in Southeast Portland.  Authorities say yesterday's crash involved a Dodge Dakota in the area of Southeast Center Street and 142nd Avenue.  The driver of the Dodge, 55-year-old Frank Drobny, has been charged with multiple counts, including DUII, reckless driving, and second-degree manslaughter.  The name of the cyclist hasn't been released.

Gas Prices Drop Slightly

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are down slightly in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the current average for regular is two-14 a gallon, about a half-cent below yesterday's average.  But it's nearly seven cents a gallon higher than the average at this time last week.

Thousands Attend Rally For Sanders In Vancouver

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Organizers estimate about 55-hundred people cheered on Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders as he made a campaign stop in Vancouver.  The Vermont senator's appearance at the jam-packed gymnasium at Hudson's Bay High School yesterday was one of three stops he made in Washington ahead of the state's Democratic caucuses.  Sanders is trailing Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton in the delegate count, but believes he'll gain strong momentum in Washington and other Western states.  Sanders also made appearances yesterday in Seattle and Spokane.

Body Of Man Found In Columbia River

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say the body of a man who veered off the road and into the Columbia River last month has been found.  Police say the man has been identified as Weldu Yemane Misgna He was the only person in the car when it left the roadway and plunged into the river near Marine Drive and Northeast 159th on February 18th.

Report: Toxic-air Data Still Shows Low Risk

(Portland, OR)  --  The Department of Environmental Quality and the Oregon Health Authority say the latest air-quality data show there continues to be a low risk of health problems for Portland residents.  Officials say both air and soil samples tested reveal no urgent public health risk.  Portland businesses Bullseye Glass and Uroboros are taking measures to stop the use of arsenic and cadmium in manufacturing, and officials say air concentrations of those toxic metals have since declined.

Seattle PD Releases Photos Of Kurt Cobain Suicide Shotgun

(Seattle, WA)  --  After more than two decades, the Seattle Police Department is releasing photos of the gun Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain used to commit suicide.  The release of five photos on Thursday was the result of a CBS News public records request.  That request was made to dispel rumors that the Remington shotgun had been melted down to hide evidence of the "coverup of a potential murder."

Elderly Portland Man Reported Missing

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are looking for a 79-year-old man who's reported to be missing.  Authorities say Andrew Griener was last seen leaving his home on Southeast 106th Avenue near Burnside around noon Thursday, with assistance from a walker and wearing a sling on his right arm.  Officials say it's possible he was trying to get to a Rite Aid pharmacy a few blocks away and would have used TriMet to get there.  Griener is described as white, five-feet-nine, 182 pounds, last seen wearing a yellow t-shirt, white pants, and white sneakers.  Anyone who sees him is asked to call 911.

Man Shot Near Portland Community College

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is being hospitalized, after he was shot in Portland's Humboldt neighborhood.  Police say the victim, who's in his early 20s, was wounded around 4:30 yesterday afternoon near Portland Community College at the intersection of North Mississippi Avenue and North Jessup Street.  Officials at PCC say Cascade Hall, the Public Service Education Building, and the Student Services Building on the Cascade Campus were in lockdown.  Police say the suspect is described as a black male in his 20s, about five-feet-eight with a thin build, who may have left the scene in a car.

Gas Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A reports another rise in Portland-area gas prices.  The average for regular is two-13 a gallon, a penny higher than yesterday.  It's also more than eight cents above the average of a week ago.

Lawmakers: Teacher Pay raise Talks Delaying Budget Agreement

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers say negotiations over teacher pay raises are part of the reason an agreement on a supplemental budget hasn't yet been reached.  Democrats, including Governor Jay Inslee, have proposed increasing pay for beginning teachers, saying Washington is losing educators to other states that offer higher salaries.  Republican Senator Bruce Dammeier told "The Olympian" the Senate leadership prefers to wait until next year for teacher pay raises, when the Legislature intends to address a Supreme Court mandate to fully fund public education.

Man Wanted In Deadly Hit-and-run Arrested In Washington

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say a man who ran away from the scene of a crash that killed his passenger in Portland is in custody in Washington state.  Officials say 36-year-old David Saucedo was arrested Wednesday near the Mason County community of Elma.  The crash, which happened on February 13th, killed 26-year-old Peter West Gefre of Gresham and injured three other people.

Bernie Sanders To Visit Vancouver Sunday

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vermont Senator and Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders plans to make three campaign stops in Washington state this Sunday.  His first stop is scheduled to happen at Hudson's Bay High School in Vancouver at one p.m.  Sanders is slated to appear at Key Arena in Seattle at five p.m., and will hold a rally in Spokane at the Spokane Convention Center at nine p.m.  All events will have free admission on a first come, first served basis.

Sex Offender Pleads Guilty In 1988 Portland Death

(Portland, OR)  --  A sex offender from California is awaiting sentencing, after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the 1988 death of a Southeast Portland woman.  Walter Wayne Howard was initially charged with murder in the death of his one-time neighbor, 25-year-old Renee Harvey, at her Southeast 27th Avenue apartment.  Howard pleaded guilty in Multnomah County Circuit Court to first-degree manslaughter, and will be sentenced later this month.  Police say Howard was arrested in San Diego in 2014 after DNA found at the scene of the killing was determined to have matched his.

WSP Watching For Left-lane Campers

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state troopers are monitoring the highways for left-lane "campers" through tomorrow.  The Washington State Patrol says the statewide-emphasis patrols are intended to make drivers aware that the left lane is used as a passing lane, and that driving for extended periods in the left lane is illegal.  Troopers are being assigned to locate and stop left-lane violators.  WSP says nearly 14-thousand left-lane campers were stopped throughout the state last year.

Portland Restaurant To Eliminate Tipping

(Portland, OR)  --  Soon, patrons at a Portland restaurant will be able to pay for their meals without having to calculate how much to pay for a tip.  The award-winning Le Pigeon will follow a trend among top restaurants across the country by eliminating tipping.  Co-owners Gabriel Rucker and Andy Fortgang say customers will see higher menu prices, but the overall cost of eating at Le Pigeon will remain the same.  The restaurant will increase pay for employees, and managers will reward employees who perform well.

Woman Arrested Following Deadly Hit-and-run

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police say they've arrested a woman following a hit-and-run crash that killed her husband.  Authorities say the crash happened outside the Division Sports Pub on Northeast Hogan Place around 2:40 yesterday morning, resulting in the death of 49-year-old Mark Lowery.  Police have arrested 48-year-old Jennifer Ann Lowery on a charge of second-degree manslaughter.

Gas Prices Still Rising

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are still rising in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-13, up a penny-and-a-half from yesterday.  It's also eight-and-a-half cents above the average of a week ago.
 

City Of Portland To Sue Monsanto

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland City Attorney Tracy Reeve now has authorization to sue the Monsanto Company.  The city council passed a resolution to authorize the lawsuit, which would seek damages for contamination of Portland's waterways with cancer-causing PCBs.  Reeve says Monsanto was the sole manufacturer of PCBs until the chemicals were banned by Congress in the 1970s.  Reeve says the city of Portland has spent a large amount of taxpayer money to clean up PCB contamination in the Willamette River and Columbia Slough.

Bill Would Require Tracking Of All Rape Kits

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would require the state of Washington to set up an electronic tracking system for all sexual-assault forensic exams is awaiting the governor's signature.  Lawmakers have cleared the measure, which was drafted after it was estimated that six-thousand rape kits have gone untested in Washington.  Des Moines Representative Tina Orwall says her bill will make Washington the first state to implement a rape-kit tracking system statewide.

Demoted Corrections Official Says He Was "Scapegoated"

(Olympia, WA)  --  A Washington State Department of Corrections computer specialist says he was made a scapegoat for the fact that a computer error wasn't fixed for more than two years after it was discovered, leading to inmates being released before their sentences ended.  David Dunnington told a Senate committee yesterday that investigators for Governor Jay Inslee targeted him unfairly for the delay.  Dunnington, who was demoted after the investigation was completed, told the panel that many people were responsible for working to correct the computer problem but that he was targeted because he was an information technology manager for DOC.  The Senate Law and Justice Committee is conducting its own investigation into the computer glitch that led to more than three-thousand inmates being improperly released early from Washington prisons.

Two Former Oregon Basketball Players Sue University

(Eugene, OR)  --  Former Oregon basketball players Dominic Artis and Damyean Dotson are each seeking ten-million dollars in a lawsuit filed against the university.  Their attorney says UO "failed" the plaintiffs when they were dismissed from the team after being accused, but never charged, with raping a fellow student.  A third player who was also accused of rape, Brandon Austin, sued the University of Oregon four months ago for seven-and-a-half-million dollars.  "The Oregonisn" reports the alleged victim settled her own lawsuit against the University of Oregon for 800-thousand dollars last August, after accusing the university of violating her Title IX rights.

Oregon Jobless Rate Falls To 4.8 Percent

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon's jobless rate is reported to be the lowest it's been in 21 years.  State employment officials say the state's unemployment rate for February fell to four-point-eight percent as Oregon gained about 43-hundred jobs.  The state added about 93-hundred jobs in January.  Construction and professional & business services saw the largest job gains in Oregon last month.

Hospital: Patients May Have Been Exposed To Hepatitis, HIV

(Seattle, WA)  --  Northwest Hospital & Medical Center in Seattle is warning that a former employee may have exposed patients to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.  The hospital says the surgical technologist was employed there from December 30th, 2011 to March 9th, 2012.  Northwest Hospital officials say they believe the level of risk is very low, but more than 13-hundred patients who had surgery at the hospital during the period have been notified and have been asked to be tested.  More information is available at 800-695-0654.

Two Former Oregon Basketball Players Sue University

(Eugene, OR)  --  Former Oregon basketball players Dominic Artis and Damyean Dotson are each seeking ten-million dollars in a lawsuit filed against the university.  Their attorney says UO "failed" the plaintiffs when they were dismissed from the team after being accused, but never charged, with raping a fellow student.  A third player who was also accused of rape, Brandon Austin, sued the University of Oregon four months ago for seven-and-a-half-million dollars.  "The Oregonisn" reports the alleged victim settled her own lawsuit against the University of Oregon for 800-thousand dollars last August, after accusing the university of violating her Title IX rights.

Two Juveniles Accused Of Plot Against Students, Staff

(Newberg, OR)  --  Two students are in custody after being accused of planning to attack fellow students and staff at Newberg High School.  Police say the suspects tried to get a gun and other weapons for a threat of violence against students and staff members.  Yamhill County prosecutors say it's likely that charges will be filed against only one of the students, a 17-year-old who's being held on a probation violation.  District Attorney Brad Berry says the plan, if carried out, would have resulted in many casualties.

Gas Prices Move Further Up

(Portland, OR)  --  It's costing more to fill your gas tank in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the current average for regular is two-eleven a gallon, up two cents from yesterday.  It's also nine cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Man With Alzheimer's Reported Missing

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are looking for a man with Alzheimer's who's been reported missing.  Authorities say 68-year-old Duane Hall became separated from his family yesterday at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Southwest Portland.  Officials say Hall was last seen around 1:30 yesterday afternoon and is likely lost and disoriented.  Hall, who lives in Vancouver, is described as white, standing six feet tall and weighing 170 pounds, with gray hair and blue eyes, and last seen wearing a dark blue jacket with tan sleeves, matching pants, black shoes, and a tan baseball cap.
 

Jury Seated For Kelley Trial

(Tacoma, WA)  --  Witness testimony is about to begin in the federal trial of Washington State Auditor Troy Kelley.  After the jury was seated yesterday, the prosecution and the defense made their opening statements.  Prosecutors say Kelley is guilty of stealing millions dollars from homeowners while he worked at his old real-estate service business and hiding the money from the IRS.  The defense told jurors Kelley neither stole nor hid any money.  Kelley is facing a total of 16 counts.

High Court Considering Arguments On I-1366

(Olympia, WA)  --  The Washington State Supreme Court is considering arguments from both sides regarding whether Initiative 1366 is constitutional.  The initiative, which was approved by voters last fall, was later struck down by a lower court.  One of the questions being considered is whether the initiative violates the "one topic" rule.  I-1366 tells lawmakers they'll face a sales-tax reduction unless they pass a constitutional amendment to require a two-thirds majority to pass a tax increase.  The Supreme Court is expected to make its decision on the case in the coming months.

Portland To Consider Increasing Funds For Homeless

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland City Council is slated tomorrow to consider an increase in funding for services for the homeless.  The proposal is to raise spending to five-million dollars for the current fiscal year, which ends on June 30th.  That will more than double funding for homeless services under the Housing State of Emergency the Council declared last October.  The "Portland Tribune" reports the additional funds will come from a recent legal settlement between the city and online travel companies over the collection of hotel and motel taxes.
 

Washington, Oregon Among Most Expensive States For Car Repair

(Undated)  --  A new study by the RepairPal Institute shows Washington is one of the states where it's most expensive to have your car repaired.  The institute's Car Repair Index ranks Washington eighth in the country, with the average repair cost at 12-hundred-20 dollars.  Oregon, meanwhile, is ranked 17th, with the average repair cost at eleven-hundred-92 dollars.  Alaska is ranked as the most expensive, followed by Michigan, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Missouri.

Gas Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A is reporting higher gas prices in the Portland area.  The current average for regular is two-oh-nine a gallon, up a penny-and-a-half from yesterday.  It's also nearly a dime above the average of a week ago.

Man Wears Hat In ID Photo

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is now legally allowed to wear his fox-face hat in his ID photo.  The man goes by Bishop and his driver's license photo was rejected at the DMV's state office during processing because of his hat.  After a nine-month-long legal battle, the court sided with Bishop, who explained the hat is a part of his Seven Drums religion in which everyone has an animal totem.  He said the fox is his totem and he wears the hat daily to symbolize his totem's spirit.

Sheriff's Deputy Injured In Crash During Chase

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  A Clackamas County sheriff's deputy is recovering from minor injuries, following a chase that resulted in a crash involving a stolen vehicle.  Authorities say a man's pickup truck was carjacked yesterday evening in the area of Silver Springs Road and McLoughlin Boulevard in Milwaukie, but the driver crashed it into a telephone pole.  Officials say one of the suspects then stole a vehicle from a car lot, but hit a deputy's car as the deputy tried a tactical maneuver to stop the vehicle.  Both suspects were arrested and the male suspect was taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Four Injured In SE Portland Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are reporting that four people were wounded in a shooting in Southeast Portland.  Authorities say the shooting, which is believed to be gang-related, happened Saturday during a birthday party at the Rosewood Community Center on Southeast Stark Street.  Police say the wounded include a 15-year-old girl, a 17-year-old boy, a 19-year-old man, and a 20-year-old man.  All are expected to survive.  No arrests have been made.

Bill Would Allow Ranchers To Retrieve Cattle In Fires

(Olympia, WA)  --  A measure that would allow livestock owners in Washington to enter wildfire zones to retrieve their animals is awaiting the governor's signature.  Under the bill, livestock owners would be allowed to enter the wildfire zones as long as they don't interfere with firefighting efforts.  Authorities would be allowed to block ranchers from going in if it will impede firefighting operations. 

Troy Kelley Trial Begins

(Tacoma, WA)  --  Jury selection will continue today in the federal trial of Washington State Auditor Troy Kelley.  He's accused of hiding more than one-million dollars in fees while working at his former real-estate business.  Kelley has pleaded not guilty to all 16 felony charges against him.  The trial is expected to last at least four weeks.

Special Session Continues In Olympia

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers will continue with the 30-day special session that was called by Governor Inslee after the regular session ended.  Inslee called the overtime session Friday after the Legislature failed to come up with an agreement on the supplemental budget.  Among the items of unfinished business is a proposal for raising teacher pay to help the state solve its problems with recruiting educators.  There's also a question of how lawmakers will deal with the 27 bills Inslee vetoed because of failure to agree on a budget.

Shooting Victims In SE Portland Expected To Recover

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say three people who were shot in Southeast Portland are expected to recover.  Police say the shooting took place around 10:40 Saturday night in the area of Southeast 162nd and Stark, following an event at the Roseweood Initiative Community Center.  There's no word on whether suspects have been identified.

Hatchet-wielding Man Killed By Customer In White Center Store

(White Center, WA)  --  King County sheriff's deputies say a masked man wielding a hatchet was shot and killed as he attacked a store clerk at a 7-11 in White Center, Washington.  Authorities say a customer who was in the store around 5:45 yesterday morning pulled his gun and shot the assailant as the attacker swung the hatchet at the cashier.  Investigators say the customer has a permit to carry concealed weapons.  No names have been released.

Area Gas Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline continues to rise in the Portland metro.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is up eight cents from a week ago, to two-oh-seven a gallon.  The national average for regular is a dollar-94 a gallon.

Woman Dies In Officer-involved Shooting

(Five Corners, WA)  --  Clark County authorities say a woman was shot and killed after attacking sheriff's deputies following a crash.  Authorities say the woman crashed a car yesterday in the area of 76th Street and 94th Avenue in the community of Five Corners, then walked to a nearby home where she tried to force her way in.  Officials say deputies encountered the woman in the back yard, and she was shot after she began attacking them with a hammer and a knife.  Her name hasn't been made public.

Salem Man Accused Of Kidnapping Grandmother

(Salem, OR)  --  A Salem man is facing charges, after being accused of abducting his 87-year-old grandmother at knifepoint.  The Marion County Sheriff's Office says 22-year-old Robert White is believed to have been under the influence of meth when he forced the woman to drive throughout the night.  Officials say after 12 hours, police were able to use GPS technology to track down the vehicle and arrest the suspect.  His grandmother wasn't injured.

Man Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Women He Met Online

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is in custody, after being accused of sexually assaulting women he met through social media.  Thirty-year-old Anthony Ray Cater, Jr. was arrested after he was reported to have assaulted two women after meeting them through Facebook and the Plenty of Fish dating site.  Police are investigating to determine if there are other victims.  "The Oregonian" reports Carter was arrested on multiple sexual-assault charges and other unrelated warrants.

WA State Schools Chief May Run For Governor As Independent

(Olympia, WA)  --  The Washington state schools superintendent isn't running for re-election, but may run for governor.  The "Seattle Times" reports Randy Dorn is considering running for the office as an independent. Dorn says neither Democratic Governor Jay Inslee nor the Republicans are abiding by the state Supreme Court mandate to fully fund public schools.  Dorn says he may enter the governor's race if only to prod Inslee and his Republican challenger, Bill Bryant, regarding public-education funding.

Report: Portland Rent Increases Highest In U.S.

(Portland, OR)  --  An online apartment marketplace says recent rent increases in Portland are the highest in the country.  ABODO.com says the average rent increase for an apartment in Portland was 14 percent between February and March.  ABODO.com VP Michael Taus told the "Portland Tribune" that young adults can't afford to buy a home and don't want the hassle of owning one, leading to more demand for rentals and increases in price.  The report says the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Portland jumped from 11-hundred-43 dollars in February to 13-hundred-three dollars in March.

One Killed In Crash Near Canby

(Canby, OR)  --  Clackamas County sheriff's deputies say at least one person is dead, following a crash near the community of Canby.  KOIN-TV reports the single-vehicle crash happened yesterday afternoon on Highway 170 near Barnards Road.  There's no word on how many people were in the vehicle.

Portland Ranked Among Best U.S. Cities To Live In

(Undated)  --  Portland is in the top twenty of U.S. News & World Report's best U.S. cities in which to live.  The magazine ranks Portland 20th out of 100 cities listed, saying the its population tows the line "between an innocent playfulness and a shameless wild side."  It describes Portland as a "well-rounded city" with offbeat shops and events, along with museums, art galleries, and the oldest public library on the West Coast.  The U.S. News list of "Best Cities" is topped by Denver, with Seattle ranking seventh.

Portland Gas Prices Up

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline continues to rise in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-05 a gallon, up nearly two cents from yesterday's average.  It's also more than eight cents a gallon higher than the average at this time last week.

Massage Therapist Accused Of Sexually Abusing Client

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland massage therapist is facing charges after being accused of sexually abusing a client.  Thirty-two-year-old Benjamin Thomas Collura was arrested this week as a result of an investigation that began in February.  Authorities say a 31-year-old woman told police she was assaulted by Collura at River's Edge Hotel and Spa.  Investigators say they're checking into whether there are other victims.

Man Killed By Falling Tree Identified As Portland Man

(Clatsop County, OR)  --  Authorities say a man who was killed by a falling tree on Highway 26 was a musician from Portland.  Officials say 37-year-old Nicholas Harris was traveling west on the highway Wednesday evening in Clatsop County when high winds caused the tree to fall on his car.  The incident took place about five miles east of Highway 101.  Harris was the founder of custom guitar-pedal business Catalinbread.
 

WA Lawmakers To Start Overtime Session

(Olympia, WA)  --  There's no deal on a supplemental budget, so the Washington State Legislature will begin a special session today.  Governor Jay Inslee made good last night on his threat to veto bills if no budget deal was reached before the regular session ended.  The governor vetoed 27 of the measures, but signed ten.  Democrats and Republicans disagree on how much money to add to last year's budget and whether money from the "rainy-day fund" should be used.

WA Charter-school Bill Sent To Inslee

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that's intended to keep charter schools operating in Washington is headed for the governor's desk.  Under the bill that was given final legislative approval yesterday, lottery revenue would be used to fund charter schools, and that revenue would be replaced by general-fund money.  Supporters say the measure offers a "fix" that abides by a state Supreme Court ruling that charter schools can't be funded by money from the state's general fund.  Opponents say the bill, if it's signed, won't withstand challenges in court.

WA Salmonella Cases Linked To Pistachios

(Atlanta, GA)  --  A new report from the Centers for Disease Control says pistachios have been linked to an outbreak of salmonella, with two of the cases diagnosed in Washington state.  Officials say pistachios sold under the brand names of Paramount Farms, Trader Joe's, and Wonderful have been recalled by the grower because of the risk of salmonella contamination.  Other states reporting salmonella cases are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Virginia.  Salmonella is responsible for one-million cases of food-borne illness in the U.S. each year.
 

OHA: Soil Testing Shows Low Health Risk

(Portland, OR)  --  Health authority officials say soil testing done in Portland, after high levels of cadmium and arsenic were found in the air, show a low health risk for residents.  The Oregon Health Authority, the Department of Environmental Quality, and the Multnomah County Health Department announced the results yesterday, saying an analysis of soil samples in Southeast and North Portland shows a low risk for health problems.  Elevated levels of the toxic metals found in the air over Southeast Portland recently have been linked to glass factories operating in the area.  OHA officials say tests and data-analysis will continue.

Gas Prices Still Climbing

(Portland, OR)  --  Fuel prices in the Portland area are still rising.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-oh-three a gallon, more than a penny higher than yesterday's average.  It's also up eight cents a gallon from this time last week.

Transportation Budget Cleared By Legislature

(Olympia, WA)  --  With the clock ticking on the legislative session, a supplement to Washington's two-year transportation budget is on its way to the governor.  The measure includes five-million dollars for pay raises for Washington State Patrol troopers.  It also provides greater access to toll lanes in the Puget Sound corridor and contains money for projects that include the North Spokane Corridor.  The session will end tonight at midnight.

Portland Burglary Suspect Sought

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say they've identified a suspect who's wanted for a burglary at a North Portland condominium.  Authorities say 32-year-old Ryan Stephen Hentz may be driving a gold or tan 2002 Honda Accord with front-end damage.  Hentz is described as white, standing five-feet-eight, weighing 160 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes, and is accused of committing the burglary on March 4th at a Hayden Island condo.  Anyone with information is asked to call 503-823-0758.

Driver Killed By Falling Tree On Oregon Coast

(Seaside, OR)  --  Police say a driver was killed when high winds caused a tree to fall on a vehicle on Highway 26 in Clatsop County.  Authorities said the incident happened around six o'clock last night, about five miles east of the highway's intersection with U.S. 101.  The driver's name hasn't been released.  The National Weather Service reports wind gusts reached hurricane force in Astoria.

McCartney To Perform At Moda Center

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland's Moda Center will be one of the stops on Paul McCartney's upcoming concert tour.  The former Beatle and member of Wings is slated to come to Portland on Friday, April 15th, his first performance in the Rose City in eleven years.  He'll also perform at Key Arena in Seattle on April 17th, as part of the "One on One" tour.  Tickets for McCartney's Portland show will go on sale March 14th.

$157 Million Mega Millions Ticket Sold In Washington

(Seattle, WA)  --  Washington Lottery officials say the 157-million-dollar Mega Millions ticket that hit all the winning numbers Tuesday night was sold in West Seattle.  Those numbers are 27, 37, 54, 66, 69, and the Mega Ball 5.  The winner hasn't yet come forward.  That person will get the 157-million dollars in yearly installments, but also has the option of taking a lump-sum payment of 102-million, before taxes.

Portland's Unemployment Rate At 16-year Low

(Portland, OR)  --  State officials say Portland's jobless rate is at a 16-year low.  The Oregon Employment Department says the metro area's unemployment rate for February is four-point-four percent, the lowest rate since the dot-com era.  The January unemployment rate for the Portland area was four-point-nine percent.  Oregon's jobless rate for February is five-point-one percent.

Wheeler Gets Endorsement From Portland Commissioner

(Portland, OR)  --  A candidate for Portland mayor is getting an endorsement from a Portland city commissioner.  Ted Wheeler has picked up the endorsement of Commissioner Nick Fish, who says Wheeler is the best-prepared candidate to meet Portland's challenges.  The Oregon State Treasurer previously worked with Fish when Wheeler was the Multnomah County chair.  Wheeler has also gotten endorsements from former Portland mayors Vera Kata, Tom Potter, and Sam Adams.
 

WA Lt. Gov. Owen Announces He's Retiring

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen says he won't be running for re-election.  Owen says he'll retire after his fifth term in office comes to an end this year.  He made the announcement yesterday on the Senate floor.  Owen, along with fellow Democrat Vic Myers, will be the second-longest tenured lieutenant governor in Washington state history.

College Savings Plan Clears WA Legislature

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would create a state-controlled savings plan for Washingtonians wishing to attend college is awaiting the governor's signature.  Under the measure, the Washington State Investment Board would set up a 529 College Savings Plan, which would allow someone to put money into an account with investment options including stocks and bonds.  The gains wouldn't be taxable if they're used for qualified college expenses.  More than a half-million dollars would need to be set aside in the supplemental budget in order for the account to be established.

Brown Among Large Field Of Candidates For Governor

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor Kate Brown will try to win election to the office she took over from John Kitzhaber.  Brown is one of 13 candidates who have filed to run for Oregon's top office.  They include six Democrats, five Republicans and two Independents.  The primary election will be held May 17th.

FBI Agents Under Investigation In Finicum Shooting

(Bend, OR)  --  The Justice Department is investigating five FBI agents for possible misconduct in the death of Robert "LaVoy" Finicum, one of the militia members who occupied a federal wildlife refuge in Oregon.  Law enforcement officials say an FBI agent is suspected of firing two shots at Finicum's truck during an encounter at a roadblock January 26th and then lying about it.  The unnamed agent allegedly never reported firing the shots.  The Justice Department is also looking into the actions of four other agents after the shooting.  Finicum died after being shot three times in the back by Oregon State Police and a prosecutor has ruled the shooting justified.

Police Body-Cam Bill Passes

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill under which local governments in Washington will be encouraged, but not required, to authorize their police officers to wear body cameras is headed to Governor Inslee's desk.  The House gave final legislative approval to the measure, which will also limit the public release of images recorded by police body cams.  Images that can be exempted from public release include those that show minors, patients, victims of sexual assault, and the body of a dead person.

One Mega Millions Ticket Worth $157 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  A single ticket sold for last night's Mega Millions game is worth an estimated 157-million-dollars.  Lottery officials haven't revealed yet where the winning ticket was purchased.  The jackpot will reset to 15-million-dollars for the Friday night drawing.

Police: Pedestrian Hit By Car Possibly Drunk

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say a pedestrian who was seriously injured when he was hit by a car might have been drunk.  The crash happened shortly before eight o'clock last night at the intersection of Northeast 104th Avenue and Halsey Street.  The man's injuries are described a potentially life-threatening.  The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with police.

Two Arrested In Downtown Assault

(Portland, OR)  --  Two people are facing charges in an attack involving baseball bats in downtown Portland.  Police say a man was assaulted in the area of Southwest 2nd Avenue and West Burnside Street on February 27th.  Police arrested 55-year-old Teliza Blackwell and 49-year-old Martin Astorga during the weekend.  KOIN-TV reports the man told police he suffered a cut to the head and was hit in the chest, stomach, and legs.

Climate Change Campaigner/Photographer Dies Snorkeling

(Undated)  --  Police in Australia are investigating the death of award-winning environmental photographer Gary Braasch.  The 70-year-old climate change campaigner from Portland, Oregon died yesterday while snorkeling at the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef.  Braasch was documenting the effect of climate change on the reef.  The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest living ecosystem, stretching 12-hundred miles off the northeast coast of Australia.
 

Regular Gas Prices Near $2 A Gallon

(Portland, OR)  --  The average price of regular gasoline is back up to near two dollars a gallon in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average is of just under two bucks is a penny-and-a-half higher than yesterday's average.  It's also about eight cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Inslee Threatens To Veto Bills Unless Budget Deal Reached

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington Governor Jay Inslee is threatening to begin vetoing legislation unless lawmakers reach a budget deal soon.  The legislative session will end at midnight Thursday.  Senate Majority Leader Mark Schoesler told "The Olympian" the negotiations aren't as far along as they should be, but he's hopeful a deal can get done sooner rather than later.  The governor's office says a special session will be called to convene Friday if the Thursday deadline isn't met.

Washington Co. Prosecutor Raises Concern With Facebook Posts

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Local defense attorneys are expressing concern in response to Facebook posts by a Washington County deputy district attorney.  Zoe Smith has defended racial profiling, saying it's "just common sense."  The "Portland Tribune" reports a screen shot of Smith's Facebook page has been circulating among defense lawyers, even though the page has been set to "private."  Smith later posted a follow-up message, saying her comments were not meant to be taken literally or as a comment on what she does for a living.

Body Found In River Near Lake Oswego

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  Authorities are investigating, after a body was found in the Willamette River near Lake Oswego.  The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office says a fisherman found the man's body around 5:15 yesterday afternoon off Riverwood Road.  The man's name hasn't been made public.  An autopsy will be conducted.

Mega Millions Top Prize Is $157 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  An estimated jackpot of 157-million dollars is up for grabs tonight in the Mega Millions drawing.  There hasn't been a grand-prize winner since the jackpot hit 165-million for the January 8th drawing.  The cash option for tonight's drawing is nearly 102-million dollars.

Washington DOC Officials Disciplined For Early Releases Of Inmates

(Olympia, WA)  --  Governor Jay Inslee says disciplinary action has been taken against several Department of Corrections officials for their involvement in the improper releases of thousands of inmates from Washington prisons.  The governor says one of those officials has resigned, two others have been demoted, and two have received reprimands.  The actions were taken following an investigation into why a DOC software glitch that led to the early releases went undetected for ten years and went unresolved for another three.  The "Spokesman-Review" reports at least two deaths have been linked to the early releases.

Officials ID Two Killed In Molalla Crash

(Molalla, OR)  --  Clackamas County authorities are still investigating a crash that killed a teacher and his teenage passenger near Molalla.  Deputies say 30-year-old Douglas Bonham of Silverton and 16-year-old Matthew Albrecht of Woodburn died Friday night in the single-vehicle crash in the 32-thousand block of South Palmer Road.  Bonham was a fifth- and sixth-grade teacher at Bethany Charter School, and Albrecht was a junior at Silverton High.  There's no word on what caused the crash.

West Linn Man Reported Missing

(West Linn, OR)  --  Police are looking for a West Linn man who's been reported missing.  Authorities say 64-year-old Duane Downs hasn't been seen since around noon yesterday, when he left his home on Spring Ridge Drive.  Police say Downs left without his wallet, cell phone, and car.  Deputies say Downs is white, stands five-feet-eight, weighs 160 pounds, and was last seen wearing a black Columbia Sportswear jacket and khaki pants.  Anyone with information is asked to call 503-635-0238.

Legislative Session To Wind Down This Week

(Olympia, WA)  --  The 60-day session of the Washington State Legislature will come to a close this week.  Among the items to be resolved is deciding on how to pay for last year's wildfires.  Representatives are looking to tap into the state's "rainy-day" fund for the money, while the Senate is seeking to get the money from the general fund.  The price tag for fighting the wildfires totals about 175-million dollars.

Four Injured In NE Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Four people are injured, two of them critically, following a multi-vehicle crash in Northeast Portland.  Police say the three-car wreck happened around 7:50 last night in the 13-thousand-900 block of Northeast Glisan Street.  Police shut down the intersection of Northeast Glisan and 139th Avenue for several hours.  The cause of the crash hasn't been determined.

Body-camera Bill Advances In Legislature

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would "strongly encourage" local governments in Washington to authorize their law-enforcement officers to use body cameras is advancing in the Legislature.  The measure puts limits on who's allowed to receive images from the cameras under Washington's public-records law.  The "Spokesman-Review" reports it also allows a police department to withhold recordings that are "highly offensive to a reasonable person."  The Senate has approved the House-passed bill, and it will now head back to the House for agreement on Senate changes.

Lawmakers Working On Improving Ways To Recruit And Retain Troopers

(Olympia, WA)  --  Before the legislative session in Olympia ends Thursday, lawmakers are trying to arrive at an agreement on how to improve the Washington State Patrol's ability to recruit and retain troopers.  The House and Senate have different approaches on increasing trooper pay, and the two sides must resolve their differences on the matter through the supplemental transportation budget.  The Everett "Herald" reports a deal could be announced as soon as today.

Funding For WA Mental Hospitals Undecided

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers hope to come to an agreement this week on funding for mental-health facilities.  The state is under a federal mandate to reduce wait times for evaluating mentally-ill offenders who have been put behind bars, and to improve safety for patients at Western State Hospital.  The House and Senate have different ideas on how much money will be needed for salary increases, opening new facilities, and hiring additional staff.  They also differ on oversight for state mental hospitals.
 

Gas Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is still heading upward.  The latest survey by Triple-A shows the Portland-area average for regular is a dollar-98 a gallon, which is eight cents above the average at this time last week.  The national average for regular is a dollar-81 a gallon.

Oregon Legislature Adjourns

(Salem, OR)  --  The 2016 session of the Oregon Legislature is history, with the passage of an affordable-housing bill helping it draw to a close.  Senate Bill 1533 would end the state's 17-year ban on affordable-housing mandates.  "The Oregonian" reports the measure would let cities force builders to set aside new multifamily units for working-class residents.  Other housing bills cleared during the session include measures for renter protections, annexation adjustments, and changes in land-use rules.
 

Woman's Body Found In Clackamas County

(Boring, OR)  --  Authorities are investigating, after a woman's body was found on the side of a road in Clackamas County.  Sheriff's deputies have identified the woman as 38-year-old Katherine Rusk of Astoria, whose body was found yesterday morning in the area of Southeast 282nd Avenue and Southeast Haley Road in the community of Boring.  Officials say it appears Rusk was hit by a vehicle.  Anyone with information helpful to the investigation is asked to call 503-723-4949.

Proposal Would Allow Three-strikers To Apply For Early Release

(Olympia, WA)  --  A move is on in the Washington Legislature to draft a bill that could lead to early release for "three-strikes" prisoners.  Under the proposal, offenders sentenced to life in prison under Washington's three-strikes law would be allowed to petition for early release after serving 20 years.  Such offenders would not have been convicted of a sex offense or aggravated first-degree murder.  Those petitions would be heard by a so-called "second-look review board."

Police: Teen Stabs Mom Over Chores

(Spokane, WA)  --  Police in Spokane say a teenage boy is accused of stabbing his mother over having to do chores.  Authorities were called to a home in the area of Augusta and North Howard around 4:40 yesterday afternoon and found a woman with a stab wound to the abdomen.  She's being hospitalized for serious injuries.  The teen has been booked for first-degree assault.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is higher in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for a gallon of regular is a dollar-96, a penny-and-a-half above yesterday's average.  It's also seven cents a gallon higher than the average of a week ago.

Vancouver Teen May Be With Registered Sex Offender

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Clark County authorities say a 14-year-old Vancouver girl who's been reported missing may be with a registered sex offender.  Authorities say the teen, Danielle "Danny" Hone, was reported missing on February 1st and was last seen with registered sex offender William J. Anderson.  Deputies say they may be traveling in Oregon or Washington in a gold double-cab Dodge truck with Oregon plates 070FBQ.  Anyone who sees them is asked to call 911.

Class-action Lawsuit Filed Against Bullseye Glass

(Portland, OR)  --  A class-action lawsuit is being filed by a group of seven Southeast Portland residents against Bullseye Glass Company, which has been linked to toxic levels of arsenic and cadmium found in air-quality tests.  The lawsuit claims the company has been polluting the area with a wide variety of chemicals used in the manufacture of glass since it opened in 1974.  Dan Schworer [[ SHWORE-er ]], president of Bullseye, says his company has always operated within federal and state guidelines regarding metal emissions.  The plaintiffs want Bullseye to pay for urine tests for those who live within a mile-and-a-half of the factory, and seek compensation for attorneys' fees.

WA Lawmakers Clear Bill To Legalize Hemp Crops

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would make it legal to grow hemp in Washington is awaiting Governor Jay Inslee's signature.  The House gave the measure final legislative approval this week, authorizing the state agriculture department to regulate the seed supply, check farmers' backgrounds, and inspect their operations.  If the bill is signed, the ag department will formulate rules for hemp production, including licensing fees and prevention of cross-pollination with marijuana plants.

Mega Millions Jackpot On The Rise

(Salem, OR)  --  Lottery officials say a ticket that was sold in Florida won the 292-million-dollar Powerball jackpot in the Wednesday night drawing.  But there's still the Mega Millions jackpot, which has risen to 144-million for tonight's drawing.  The cash option will be more than 94-million dollars.

Officials ID Man Found Dead On Bank Of Willamette

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a man who was found dead on the bank of the Willamette River was a resident of Hillsboro.  The body of 34-year-old Shawn Reap was found Tuesday evening near Swan Island.  An autopsy will be conducted to determine cause of death.

Man Dies After Being Hit By Car In Beaverton

(Beaverton, OR)  --  Authorities say a 29-year-old man who was running to catch a TriMet bus in Beaverton died after being hit by an SUV.  The crash took place yesterday afternoon at Southwest Hall and Greenway boulevards.  Police say the SUV had a green light as it traveled along Southwest Hall Boulevard.  The pedestrian was airlifted to a hospital, where he died.

Bill Would Mandate Coroners' Inquests Move Forward

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that's met final legislative approval would require that publicly-elected county coroners' inquests in Washington go forward.  The measure was drafted after Antonio Zambrano-Montes was shot to death by Pasco police more than a year ago.  The shooting was ruled justified by the Franklin County prosecutor.  Franklin County Coroner Dan Blasdel pushed for a coroner's inquest regarding the shooting, but it was resisted by county officials until yesterday, the day after lawmakers passed the bill.

WA Man Accidentally Kills Himself Taking A Selfie

(Concrete, WA)  --  A 43-year-old Washington man is dead after accidentally shooting himself in the face while taking a selfie.  The "Skagit Valley Herald" reports the man was taking photos of himself and his girlfriend in the community of Concrete with what he thought was an unloaded gun.  The girlfriend says they took several photos with the gun this past Sunday, and her boyfriend unloaded the gun before each photo and then reloaded it.  The Skagit County Sheriff's Office says the man apparently left a bullet in the gun before the last selfie.

Oregon Earns Share Of PAC-12 Title With Win

(Los Angeles, CA)  --  The Oregon Ducks will be at least co-champions of the PAC-12, after earning a 76-68 road win over UCLA.  Oregon also nailed down the Number One seed in the PAC-12 Tournament.  Tyler Dorsey led the Ducks last night with 20 points and Dillon Brooks added 15.  Oregon will round out the regular season when it visits USC Saturday.

Brown Signs Oregon Minimum-wage Bill

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill that increases Oregon's minimum wage now has Governor Kate Brown's signature.  The measure will incrementally raise hourly wages, based on region, through 2022.  The minimum will top out at 14-75 an hour in Portland, 13-50 an hour in mid-tier areas, and 12-50 an hour in more remote areas of the state.  The law will take effect in July.

Cops Called On Seahawks' Chancellor At Redmond Gym

(Redmond, WA)  --  Seattle Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor says the police were called as he tried to inquire about a gym he wanted to buy in nearby Redmond.  Authorities say two female employees who were inside the Redmond Athletics Club last night called the police department to report Chancellor as he knocked on the window and pointed a camera inside the facility.  Officers arrived and spoke with Chancellor, who told them he was interested in buying the gym and wanted more information.  The gym closed Monday after going out of business.

Lawmakers Clear Bill To Double Penalties For Felony DUI

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would double penalties for felony DUI in Washington is headed to the governor.  Under the measure approved unanimously yesterday by the Senate, a driver convicted of a fifth DUI, which is a felony under Washington state law, would face up to ten years in prison and a 20-thousand-dollar fine.  The House previously passed the measure unanimously.

One Powerball Ticket Worth $292 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  The Powerball jackpot is resetting to 40-million dollars, after a single ticket hit the big money.  The top prize had hit 292-million dollars for last night's drawing.  There's no word yet on where the winning ticket was sold.  Tomorrow night's Mega Millions drawing will be for an estimated grand prize of 144-million dollars.

DEQ Director Leaving Agency

(Salem, OR)  --  The director of Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality says he's stepping down.  Dick Pedersen says health concerns have led to his decision to leave the agency.  A spokesperson for Governor Kate Brown says Pedersen's decision to resign is not in response to southeast Portland's air-pollution issues that have been linked to two local glass manufacturers.  Brown says DEQ Deputy Director Joni Hammond will serve as interim director until a permanent successor can be appointed.

Senate To Vote On Renewable-Energy Bill

(Salem, OR)  --  The full Senate is slated to vote today on a bill that would double Oregon's renewable energy mandate.  The House-passed bill would require that Oregon's two investor-owned utilities use sources such as solar and wind to serve 50-percent of their customers' energy demand by the year 2040.  The "Portland Tribune" reports the measure would also require utilities to stop paying for coal power to serve Oregon customers.  At least one of the utility companies is already on track to do that.
 

Bill Would Leave Elections Officials' Names Off Ballot Return Envelopes

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill to require that elections officials in Washington no longer have their names on return envelopes for mail-in ballots if they're running for re-election that year is on its way to Governor Jay Inslee's desk.  Supporters of the change say allowing the names of elections officials on the envelopes and on voter pamphlets made for an unfair advantage for incumbents.  The state Senate gave the bill final legislative approval yesterday.

Transgender Activist Running For WA Legislative Seat

(Olympia, WA)  --  A transgender activist is among the latest candidates to run for the open 43rd District House seat in Washington.  Danni Askini is looking to replace Representative Brady Walkinshaw of Seattle, who's running for Congress.  Askini, who's founder of the Gender Justice League, is joining environmental activist Sameer Ranade in the race.  There are now five candidates for the District 43 seat.

Pregnant Woman Killed When Tree Falls On Car

(Troutdale, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies say a pregnant woman was killed yesterday when a tree fell on her SUV as she was driving near Troutdale.  Authorities say 30-year-old Kristi Leigh Oliver was westbound on Southeast Oxbow Drive, a few miles south of Southeast Division Street, when the tree fell.  Multnomah County deputies say Oliver died at the scene.  She leaves behind her husband and a three-year-old son.

Fuel Prices Still Rising In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is still on the rise in the Portland area.  Triple-A is reporting the average for regular is a-dollar-93, up a penny-and-a-half from yesterday.  It's also three-and-a-half-cents a gallon higher than the average of a week ago.

Legislation Would Exempt Advisory Votes On Tax Changes From Recounts

(Olympia, WA)  --  A measure that would exempt statewide advisory measures on tax changes from being subject to recounts is awaiting the governor's signature.  Current Washington state law mandates that a statewide ballot measure is automatically subject to a recall if the margin is less than two-thousand votes.  Supporters of the legislation say a recount of the results of an advisory ballot could cost the state hundreds of thousands of dollars.  The "Spokesman-Review" reports that no advisory measure in Washington has ever resulted in the Legislature removing or even reconsidering a tax.
 

Former Spokane VA Doctor Convicted Of Child Sex Abuse

(Spokane, WA)  --  A former Veterans Administration doctor in Spokane is awaiting sentencing after being found guilty in federal court on 34 counts that included sexual abuse of a child and production of child pornography.  It took the jury only about two hours yesterday to come back with the verdict against Craig Morgenstern.  Morgenstern was arrested in October 2014 and accused of committing the crimes in Washington, Idaho, Mississippi and Tennessee.  Sentencing is scheduled for June 15th.

Powerball Jackpot At $292 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  Interest in the Powerball game is growing as the jackpot gets higher.  Tonight's drawing will be for an estimated top prize of 292-million-dollars, with a cash option of nearly 192-million.  Last night's Mega Millions drawing didn't yield any jackpot winners, so the grand prize for Friday night's drawing will be an estimated 144-million-dollars.

Man Accused In Hit-and-run Reportedly Says He Fell Asleep

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused of a hit-and-run crash in Gresham that seriously injured three people reportedly told police he had fallen asleep at the wheel.  KATU-TV quotes court documents as saying 33-year-old Sky Marsh told police he woke up to a "bang, boom, and boom" but that he continued driving.  Marsh reportedly told investigators he had a drink of whiskey at a Portland Trail Blazers game and later drank ginger ale at a bar prior to the Friday morning crash on Southeast 181st Avenue.  Marsh is facing multiple charges, including assault and reckless endangering.

Cleanup Follows Large Fire At Marina Warehouse

(Portland, OR)  --  Cleanup will resume today, following a large fire that damaged hundreds of vessels Sunday night and Monday morning at a marina on Hayden Island.  KGW-TV reports cleanup crews will be able to get inside the burned-out warehouse today for the first time.  Officials say about 350 boats and yachts were contained inside the Sundance Marina warehouse at the time of the blaze.  The cause of the fire hasn't yet been determined.

Man Won't Be Charged In Roommate's Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is free after a grand jury declined to indict him for the shooting of his roommate.  James Reed Dean was in the Multnomah County Jail for the past two weeks since his arrest following the shooting in the 67-hundred block of Southeast Pardee Street.  The 28-year-old victim was shot twice, but survived.  Dean was initially charged with attempted murder.

Inslee Signs Education-funding Measure

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that supporters say will ensure continued bipartisan collaboration on full funding for basic education in Washington has been signed by Governor Jay Inslee.  The measure will create the Education Funding Task Force, made up of eight lawmakers and one non-voting facilitator from the governor's office.  Inslee says the bill will assure that the Legislature is ready in 2017 to abide by the state Supreme Court mandate to fulfill its constitutional obligations to fund education.  The task force will recommend sources of state revenue to support Washington's program of basic education.

Gas Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices are going up in the Portland metro.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular is a dollar-92, a penny-and-a-half above yesterday's average.  It's also nearly two cents higher than a week ago.

Eight Candidates For Mayor Gather For Town Hall

(Portland, OR)  --  Eight candidates for Portland mayor are hoping they made a good impression during last night's debate at Revolution Hall.  "The Oregonian" had invited only state Treasurer Ted Wheeler and Multnomah County Commissioner Jules Bailey to the debate last night, but that event was cancelled Sunday night over concerns surrounding threats by protesters to disrupt it.  The event was resurrected on a larger scale after it was agreed that six lesser-known candidates would join the discussion.  The primary election will be held May 17th.

New Sellwood Bridge Now Open

(Portland, OR)  --  The new Sellwood Bridge in Portland is now open.  The span opened shortly before eight o'clock last night, hours ahead of schedule.  Officials say the bridge will be able to withstand a major earthquake.  A good deal of work remains, including the dismantling of the old Sellwood Bridge and the interchange on the new bridge's west end.

Oregon In Top 20 "Best States For Women"

(Undated)  --  Oregon is considered one of the "Best States for Women."  That's according to a new WalletHub survey, for which analysts observe Women's History Month by comparing the 50 states and the District of Columbia across key metrics that consider the needs and expectations of women in the U.S.  Oregon ranks 20th, with its "Women's Health Care & Safety" score placing in the top ten.  The survey ranks Washington 12th, while the "Worst States for Women" include Louisiana, South Carolina, Nevada, Alabama, and Arkansas.

Mega Millions Jackpot Climbing

(Salem, OR)  --  A big jackpot will be up for grabs tonight.  The Mega Millions drawing is for an estimated top prize of 135-million dollars.  The cash option will be more than 88-million.  If that jackpot isn't big enough for you, tomorrow night's Powerball drawing will be for an estimated grand prize of 292-million dollars.

Authorities Say Homeowner Appears Justified In Shooting Actress's Dog

(Yelm, WA)  --  The Thurston County, Washington Sheriff's Office says a man who shot and killed a dog belonging to actress Salma Hayek may have been justified.  Authorities say the man claimed the German shepherd wandered last week onto his property and attacked his pets.  Hayek, who runs an animal sanctuary on her ranch in Yelm, says the dog, named Mozart, never bit or attacked anyone.  Thurston County Sheriff John Snaza says it appears the homeowner was only protecting his animals and not trying to purposefully kill or maim a dog.

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