Regional News Archives for 2017-02

Jazz Musician Charged For Sexual Abuse

(Multnomah Co., OR)  --  A Portland jazz musician is being accused of sex abuse.  Thara Memory is a Grammy Award winning musician who has been inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame.  He was arraigned yesterday on multiple counts of sex abuse.  He's accused of abusing multiple women over the past few years.  Anyone with more information about the case is asked to call the Portland Police Bureau.
 

Portland Transportation Officials Support House Bill

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland Bureau of Transportation is supporting a bill that would close loopholes that make it difficult to enforce distracted driving laws.  In 2015, a court ruled that Oregon's distracted driving laws only apply to texting and talking on the phone.  They don't apply to surfing the internet or social media on a cell phone while driving.  The city's Bureau of Transportation has written the state legislature urging lawmakers to approve a House bill that would do away with this loophole.

Man Pulled Out Of Clackamas River

(Clackamas Co., OR)  --  A man is recovering after he was pulled out of the Clackamas River.  The man was rescued by members of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office last night.  It's believe he went in the water to get his boat after it drifted away from the shore.
 

Proposal To Lower Speed Limit On Southeast Division Street

(Portland, OR)  --  The city council is considering a proposal to lower the speed limit on Southeast Division Street.  The speed limit on the street ranges from 35-to-40 miles-per-hour.  The proposal suggests lowering the speed limit to 30-miles-per-hour between 82nd and 174th avenues.  The city council is expected to examine the measure on Thursday.

Man, Dog Found Dead In Northeast Portland Home

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating after a man and a dog were found dead in a home in Northeast Portland.  They were discovered yesterday afternoon in a home on the 83-hundred block of Northeast Sandy Boulevard.  The cause of death hasn't been released, but police say the deaths are suspicious.

Portland Commissioner Defends Diversity Training Trip

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Commissioner Amanda Fritz is defending her decision to fly her staff to Arizona for diversity training.  The cost of the trip is about 40-thousand dollars.  In an email sent Saturday, Commissioner Fritz said that the trip will help her staff "work for a wider range of customers."  She also says it was cheaper to go to diversity training in Arizona than it would have been to have the training in Portland.

Study: Oregon Is An Average State For Women

(Undated)  --  A study says Oregon isn't the worst state for women.  Financial and lifestyle website WalletHub recently released its "Best States for Women" list.  Using factors such as economic well-being, health and safety, Oregon came in 17th place on the list.  Minnesota came in first.  Mississippi is considered to be the worst state for women.

NFL Combine Begins Today, Oregon And Oregon State Represented

(Indianapolis, IN)  --  Some football players from Oregon and Oregon State are hoping to make a good impression on scouts at the NFL Combine.  The Combine starts today at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.  Three players from Oregon State and one player from Oregon were invited to participate in the event.

Vancouver Woman Turns Self In After Deadly Hit-and-Run

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A woman who's accused of killing a pedestrian in a hit-and-run in Vancouver is now in custody.  Sheriff's deputies say 35-year-old Jessica Bankhead turned herself in yesterday morning, in connection with the Saturday night crash that killed 44-year-old Richard Waller, also of Vancouver.  Authorities say Waller was hit in the 23-hundred block of Northeast Minnehaha Street.  Investigators say alcohol is believed to have been a factor.

Ferguson: Washington Prepared For Federal Action On Legal Pot

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson says the state is preparing for "all possibilities" when it comes to defending its law legalizing recreational marijuana against the federal government.  The White House announced last week the Department of Justice might take action against states that allow marijuana to be sold legally.  Ferguson says he and Governor Jay Inslee wrote a letter last week to new U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, asking for a meeting concerning marijuana policy, but have yet to hear back.

TriMet Closes Gresham City Hall Station For Renovation

(Gresham, OR)  --  The MAX stop at Gresham's City Hall is closed through April 1st as renovation moves into the heavy-construction phase.  Officials tell KATU-TV that riders can use the nearby Gresham Central Station next to the Gresham Parking Garage or Civic Drive Station, which is one-third of a mile from City Hall.  The City Hall station is expected to be reopened for use on Sunday, April 2nd, with the full renovation project to be finished by early summer.
 

Yakima Native Atwood Wins Oscar For Costume Design

(Los Angeles, CA)  --  A Yakima, Washington native is among the earliest to pick up an Oscar in last night's Academy Awards presentation.  Colleen Atwood was awarded an Oscar for her work in "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them."  It was the 12th Academy Award nomination for Atwood, who studied painting at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle in the early 1970s.  She's also known for her work in movies including "The Silence of the Lambs," "Arrow," and "Big Fish."

Police Investigate Fairview Car Burglaries

(Fairview, OR)  --  Authorities say there's been a rash of vehicle burglaries near an apartment complex in Fairview over the past week-and-a-half.  One resident tells KATU-TV there have been at least eight break-ins at the complex during the period, and perhaps more.  Fairview Interim Police Chief Harry Smith says smash-and-grab crimes like this are common, especially where someone leaves a car unattended for a long period of time.  So far, police don't have any information on suspects.

Bill Would Reduce Taxes For WA Breweries

(Olympia, WA)  --  Consumers of beer produced by craft breweries could be paying less to imbibe, under legislation being considered by Washington state lawmakers.  The Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act would lower the federal excise tax on each barrel of craft brew, from seven dollars to three-50.  Supporters of the measure say such a tax cut could keep Washington on good footing with Oregon and other states.

Lawmakers Asked For More Childcare Funding

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are being asked to provide more funding for childcare in the state.  Childcare professionals say they're feeling the pinch with the increase in the state minimum wage.  Childcare advocates are hoping the state will provide 80-million in additional state dollars for childcare services over the next two years.  Supporters of the increased subsidy say the 80-million-dollars would help childcare facilities offset the costs of the rising minimum wage and build a sustainable industry.

Gasoline Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices in the Portland area are higher.  Triple-A reports the average for a gallon of regular is two-57, a penny-and-a-half above the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-29 a gallon.

White House Signals Fight Against States With Legal Pot

(Washington, DC)  --  The status of legal recreational marijuana in Oregon is facing a potential threat from the Trump administration. White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer suggested the administration may crack down on states that have legalized the drug for non-medicinal purposes. Trump expressed support for medical marijuana while running for president but Spicer said yesterday that recreational weed is a different story. U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon expressed concern about Spicer's remarks yesterday, saying he'd fight hard against any federal government action.
 

Oregon Now Part Of Travel Ban Lawsuit

(Seattle, WA)  --  Oregon is joining the states of Washington and Minnesota in a lawsuit against President Trump's executive order on travel bans. The motion was filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Seattle by Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. Even though a federal court has put the original travel order on hold, White House officials said this week a new executive order on refugees and immigration will be released next week.

Columbia River Advocates File Suit Against EPA

(Seattle, WA)  --  New U.S. EPA director Scott Pruitt is facing his first lawsuit, and it's coming from caretakers of the Columbia River. The Columbia Riverkeeper group filed a suit in federal court in Seattle on Thursday demanding the EPA work to protect salmon from hot summertime temperatures in the Columbia and Snake Rivers. The suit alleges the EPA has ignored the high temperatures, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of nearly 250-thousand adult sockeye salmon because they were prevented from swimming upstream.
 

Decision In Excessive Force Investigation Overturned

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland's City Council is overturning the city's police bureau's decision to exonerate a police officer for using a Taser on a bicyclist six times in fifteen seconds in September 2014. City council members voted three-to-two on Wednesday to reverse the decision regarding Officer Bradley Nutting's actions against Matthew Klug of Portland. However, the council did not suggest Nutting receive any discipline. Portland's police chief concluded Klug acted in a threatening manner during a struggle with officers after an arrest that justified the Tasing.

Sheriff's Department Investigating Emails About Deputies Helping ICE

(Portland, OR)  --  The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is still looking into claims made that deputies assisted Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents in efforts to deport illegal immigrants. The "Portland Tribune" reported yesterday it obtained several new emails that showed instances of deputies telling ICE agents where and when to find who they were searching for, in violation of the county's sanctuary policies. Sheriff Mike Reese says the internal affairs department will review the emails ahead of a potential investigation.
 

Cop That Made Controversial Facebook Posts Canned

(West Linn, OR)  --  A Portland-area police officer who allegedly asked if a Black Lives Matter protest was a "day of target practice" on Facebook is out of a job. Officer Tom Newberry of the West Linn Police Department had been placed on paid administrative leave since last summer after the posts were reported. His firing was announced at a Wednesday city council meeting. Officials aren't saying why Newberry was fired, but note the investigation into whether he violated any department or city policies is no longer active.

Late-Term Abortion Ban Legislation Filed

(Salem, OR)  --  Republican lawmakers in Oregon want late-term abortions to be illegal in the state. House Bill 3017 was introduced yesterday. It would prevent doctors in the state from performing an abortion for a fetus that's more than 20 weeks old, which is about halfway through a normal pregnancy. Current Oregon law does not have mandatory waiting periods or parental notification for abortions and is one of the few states to allow them to be publicly funded. The new bill, like several others that have been filed by GOP legislators this year, isn't expected to get past the Democratically-controlled Oregon legislature and governorship.
 

Ex-NFL Player Arrested Naked In Oregon

(Portland, OR)  --  A former NFL player who allegedly tried to break into a home before taking his clothes off is being held without bail in Portland.  Stanley Wilson the Second was transferred to Multnomah County Jail Thursday after his third naked run-in with police.  Officers say Wilson was acting erratically at a home in Woodburn, Oregon.  He was reportedly naked in the backyard when authorities arrived.
 

Officers Find 90-Pounds Of Meth In Drug Bust

(Gresham, OR)  --  Three men are under arrest following the "biggest drug bust in Multnomah County Sheriff's Office history."  Lieutenant Chad Gaios says officers found 90-pounds of meth, two pounds of heroin and more while serving two search warrants Wednesday night.  The drugs have a street value over two-million dollars.  Officials said in a press conference Thursday that they believe the drugs were made in Mexico before being brought to Gresham and Portland.     
 

"March 4 Trump" Scheduled

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  A "March 4 Trump" rally is scheduled in Lake Oswego next week.  Store owner Kevin Kerwin posted a sign for the event, which is set for March 4th.  He said he has been met with lots of opposition.  Kerwin says, quote, "They want me to get out of the state."  The march will start at George Rodgers Park at noon.

18 Car Break-Ins Reported

(Sandy, OR)  --  Police are investigating a string of robberies in Sandy.  Officers say 18-cars were broken into and one of them was stolen Wednesday night.  All of the break-ins happened in the city's east side within a half-mile of each other.  Police say two guns and at least one credit card were taken from the cars.  The stolen vehicle was found abandoned in Damascus.

Hollywood Theater Opens At PDX

(Portland, OR)  --  Travelers at Portland International Airport have a new way to kill time.  The brand-new Hollywood Theater opened Thursday evening in Terminal-C.  The micro cinema plays short-films for free 24/7.  Marketing official Alison Hallett says the theater will show "everything from animations to music videos to documentaries."  It features Oregon artists, and everything is rated G.

Deputies: Car Used In Hit-and-run Found

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Sheriff's deputies say they've found a car that's believed to have been involved in a hit-and-run crash that severely injured a Vancouver man.  Authorities say 34-year-old Paul Adams was hit early Sunday morning while he walked along Northeast 54th Avenue.  Clark County deputies say they located the vehicle yesterday morning in the Vancouver area.  The driver is still being sought.

Portland Potholes To Be Filled In

(Portland, OR)  --  Numerous potholes are a by-product of the recent storms that swept through the Portland area, and transportation officials say they'll get a "patch-a-thon" underway today.  Transportation commissioner Dan Saltzman will get the process started when he fills in a pothole this morning.  Brady says the patch-a-thon will continue until the pothole backlog is cleared.  PBOT says it fills more than eight-thousand potholes each year in Portland.

Study Shows Oregon Among Most Sleep-deprived States

(Undated)  --  A new 24/7 Wall Street study on the amount of sleep Americans manage each night shows Oregon ranks among the most sleep-deprived states.  The research has Oregon coming in 39th in the amount of sleep received, with 32 percent of adults in the state getting less than seven hours of shuteye per night.  The rate of adults in Oregon reporting frequent mental distress is the ninth-highest in the nation at 13-point-six percent.  The 24/7 Wall Street study ranks Oregon with the 18th-highest poverty rate and the 19th-lowest number of adults with high blood pressure.

Washington House Passes Democrats' School Plan

(Olympia, WA)  --  Two different public-education-funding plans are now up for debate in the Washington State Legislature, one approved by House Democrats and one previously approved by Senate Republicans.  Yesterday, the House passed legislation which includes increased spending on each student, more assistance for poor students, and higher salaries for beginning teachers.  Republicans are criticizing the plan, saying it doesn't specify what taxes would be raised to pay for all of its features.  Earlier this month, the Senate approved a plan that calls for replacing local school levies with a statewide uniform rate earmarked for schools.

Officers Cleared After Shooting Death Of Suspect

(Washington Co., OR)  --  The Washington County District Attorney's Office says a group of police officers was justified when they shot and killed a man who had killed his estranged wife and shot an Oregon state trooper.  The officers fatally wounded 30-year-old James Tylka on Christmas night after he shot his wife to death.  Trooper Nic Cederberg, who was pursuing the suspect, exchanged gunfire with Tylka and was wounded, and was shot again after Tylka took his service weapon.  Cederberg survived, but Tylka was gunned down by the officers.

Fire Burns Aloha Home, Two Evaluated For Smoke Inhalation

(Aloha, OR)  --  Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fire that damaged a home in Aloha.  Firefighters say the blaze appeared to have started in either the garage or the attic of the house on Sandra Lane.  Two people were evaluated for smoke inhalation and one of them suffered minor injuries.

Seattle Cop Accused Of Doing Drugs With Strip-club Dancer

(Seattle, WA)  --  A veteran Seattle police officer is in trouble with the law, after being accused of consuming drugs with a strip-club dancer and giving information on crime victims to a local TV station news anchor.  The "Seattle Times" reports Robert Marlow was arrested last month as a result of an investigation by Seattle police and the FBI's Public Corruption Squad.  Marlow, a 17-year veteran of Seattle PD, has pleaded not guilty to a felony count of violating the Uniform Controlled Substances Act and one misdemeanor count of second-degree computer trespass.  Authorities say Marlow texted Q13 news anchor David Rose information on crime victims obtained from a restricted department computer database.

Car Prowls Investigated In Lake Oswego

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  Police are looking for thieves who drive around looking for unlocked vehicles to burglarize.  Authorities say the perpetrators are seen traveling in a black Jeep Rubicon with the intention of stealing personal information.  Police say the suspects are peeking into cars and stealing cell phones and wallets, then using that information to steal identities.  Officers say locking your car is always a good idea, whether you have valuables in your car or not.
 

4.2 Quake Hits Western Washington

(Belfair, WA)  --  There are no reports of injuries or damage, following a 4.2 magnitude earthquake on the Kitsap Peninsula.  The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network says the temblor was recorded at 8:59 last night, about eleven miles west-northwest of Belfair.  Shocks were felt as far away as Olympia.  Officials say a magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck near Vancouver Island about an hour later.

Beaverton Officer Kills Man "Acting Erratically"

(Beaverton, OR)  --  Beaverton police say one of their officers shot and killed a man who was armed and "acting erratically" on the roof of a house.  Police responded around 7:40 yesterday morning to a report of a man pointing a gun from the roof of the home on Southwest 170th Avenue.  Two schools, Beaver Acres Elementary and Merlo Station High School, are located near the home.  Authorities say the man, 51-year-old Douglas Michael Smith, was shot by the officer after police unsuccessfully tried to talk him down.

Police Seek Driver Of Hit-and-run Vehicle

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A man is being hospitalized after being struck by a hit-and-run vehicle and left with serious injuries in Vancouver.  Sheriff's deputies say Paul Adams was found around two a.m. Monday, lying with multiple broken bones along Northeast 54th Avenue in Vancouver.  Deputies believe the vehicle that hit Adams was a Nissan sedan, which likely has severe damage to its passenger side, especially the grille.

Salem Ranked 27th-best Capital City In Which To Live

(Undated)  --  Salem has a mid-tier ranking on a list of state capitals and how they fare as places to live.  WalletHub ranks Salem 27th on its 2017 list of Best State Capitals in which to live.  The financial-assistance website used 42 factors to rank each of the 50 cities, with metrics including cost of living and number of attractions.  Salem scored high in "economic well-being" and "quality of education and health," but scored lower in "affordability" and "quality of life."

Two Arrested For Meth During Traffic Stop

(Mosier, OR)  --  Police say a traffic stop along Interstate 84 resulted the discovery of 13 pounds of methamphetamine in an SUV.  Oregon State Police say the eastbound Ford was pulled over Monday in the Mosier area, and the two men inside consented to a search of the vehicle.  Troopers say four large packages of suspected meth were discovered in a cardboard box.  Facing charges are Edgar Vidal Nuno Naranjo and Oscar Arnulfo Fuller Leyva, both of Mexico.

Lawmakers Seek To Give State Schools Chief More Power

(Olympia, WA)  --  Some Washington lawmakers are supportive of giving the state's public education chief greater authority to direct education policy in the state.  A bill that would reduce or eliminate the Board of Education's role in policy development has made it out of a House committee.  The measure is backed by new Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdahl, who tells the "Everett Herald" if he's to be held accountable for the achievement of students and performance of schools, he needs to have the final say on many of the decisions that are now entrusted to the Board of Education.
 

Brown, Supporters Testify In Favor Of Gun Safety Bill

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor Kate Brown is among those who are backing a new gun-safety bill being considered in the Oregon Legislature.  Testimony in support of Senate Bill 797 was provided before a legislative committee yesterday by Brown, along with Senate Majority Leader Jennifer Williamson, Senator Floyd Prozanski, and Multnomah County Sheriff Mike Reese.  The measure includes provisions to ban abusive dating partners from having guns; disallow convicted stalkers from purchasing or possessing guns; and require law enforcement to be informed when a prohibited person tries to purchase a gun illegally and fails a background check.

Wheeler: "Mistakes Were Made" By Police During Protests

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler says "mistakes were made" Monday when police arrested 13 people during the "Not My President's Day" protest downtown.  The mayor says he promises to work with Police Chief Mike Marshman to discuss how to best reduce tensions moving forward.  Police officers say they arrested the marchers because they were blocking traffic, and some still refused to move despite being warned for 20 minutes to clear the street.
 

Police Look For Would-be Robber

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are looking for a suspect in an attempted armed robbery at a local Subway sandwich shop.  The incident happened around 2:30 this morning at the location in the 57-hundred block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard.  Police say a man displaying a gun approached the counter and exchanged words with the cashier before fleeing.

Bill Intended To Improve Coroner Inquests

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would improve coroner inquests in Washington is on its way to the full Senate.  Senate Bill 5769 would establish new rules that include allowing county commissioners to overrule medical examiners who refuse to conduct inquests, and requiring special consideration for deaths that involve law enforcement personnel and jail inmates.  The measure was inspired by a deadly shooting in Pasco, for which a coroner's inquest wasn't held until nearly two years later.
 

Government Stalemate Leads To More Trash On Washington Highways

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state transportation officials say they're no longer getting help from prison inmates to pick up trash along the state's highways.  Officials tell KIRO-TV the partnership between the Department of Transportation and the Washington State Department of Corrections was put on hold last August because of concerns over how pending legislation in Olympia will impact liability.  A bill to resolve the liability issue is currently before a legislative committee.  The transportation department says Washington's growing population is contributing to the increased amount of litter on the highways.

Deputies: Speed Likely Factor In Deadly Crash

(Damascus, OR)  --  Clackamas County sheriff's deputies say speed was likely a factor in a crash that killed three people in Damascus.  The wreck happened Saturday night in the 13-thousand-500 block of Southeast Wiese Road, killing all three in the vehicle.  They included 21-year-old Drew Noble, 16-year-old Curtis Sowell, and 21-year-old Brenna Collacchi. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Bill Would Lower Legal Blood-alcohol Limit

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill being considered by Washington state lawmakers would lower the state's legal blood-alcohol limit for driving a vehicle from point-08 to point-05.  Representative and former state trooper John Lovick says he drafted the measure on recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board.  The American Beverage Institute opposes the bill, contending only a small percentage of deadly car crashes are caused by drivers with a blood-alcohol level between point-05 and point-08.  The bill is assigned to the House Transportation Committee.

Oregon Luring Major Outdoor-gear Show

(Salem, OR)  --  Officials are hoping to use Portland's drawing power to attract the world's largest outdoor-gear show.  The Outdoor Retailer trade show announced last week it's pulling out of Utah because of that state's stance on public lands.  Travel Oregon spokesperson Linea Gagliano  tells KGW-TV that Portland is the perfect spot for the Outdoor Retailer trade show because of the city's access to the outdoors, the number of outdoor stores located in the city, and the new hotel being built next to the convention center.  

Bill Would Allow Pot To Be Home-delivered

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would allow marijuana to be delivered to your door is being considered in Washington state.  Under HB 1712, licensed marijuana retailers would be allowed to fulfill orders by phone or online for users age 21 and older.  Current state law allows marijuana purchases only at brick-and-mortar retailers.  The bill's sponsor, Tacoma Representative David Sawyer, says increasing access to marijuana would undermine black-market distributors.

13 Arrested During "Not My President" Protest

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say more than a dozen arrests were made during the "Not My Presidents Day" protest.  The demonstration began peacefully yesterday outside the Federal Building on Southwest 3rd Avenue, but escalated when some protesters began blocking traffic.   Police say they arrested 13 protesters who ignored orders from bicycle officers to get on the sidewalk and clear the road for traffic.  KATU-TV reports the remaining marchers joined a pre-planned, permitted demonstration that was led by the AFL-CIO and proceeded peacefully.

Inslee: Thousands Would Be Hurt By Repeal Of Obamacare

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington Governor Jay Inslee says if the Affordable Care Act were to be repealed, thousands of patients in the state could lose their health care treatment.  The governor says 20-thousand Washingtonians have had their cancer treated because of the availability of Obamacare.  Inslee says his administration "won't allow Washington and Congress and the president to take it away" from the 750-thousand residents who benefit from it.
 

One Shot To Death During SE Portland Confrontation

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating a shooting that left a man dead in Southeast Portland.  Authorities say a man in his 30s confronted the owner of an insurance business on Southeast 82nd Avenue yesterday afternoon.  Police say the business owner came under attack by the man and fired his gun, fatally wounding the man.  No names have been released.  Police say the business owner cooperated with the investigation and surrendered his gun to officers.
 

Lawmaker Seeks To Shrink Building Codes To Fit Tiny Homes

(Olympia, WA)  --  A Washington state lawmaker is seeking to have tiny homes become part of the mainstream.  A bill, sponsored by Aberdeen Representative Brian Blake, would allow cities and counties to reduce minimum room size requirements so that builders can create much smaller single-family homes without violating building codes.  Blake tells the "News Tribune" he sees value in the simplicity and affordability of tiny houses.  The measure is currently going through the committee process.

Rescue Crews Pull Person From Under Morrison Bridge

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Fire & Rescue officials say they thought crews were pulling a body from under the Morrison Bridge yesterday morning, but the person turned out to be alive.  A rescue boat brought the victim to a nearby dock, where an ambulance was on standby.  There's no word on the victim's condition.

Hundreds Gather In Salem To Support Immigrants

(Salem, OR)  --  Organizers estimate hundreds of people gathered at the Capitol yesterday to show solidarity with immigrants.  People holding signs braved the windy conditions in Salem in support of immigrants, and people took turns at the podium to recount their experiences as strangers to the U.S.  Similar events were held in 20 cities across the country.

Twin Brother Arrested After Deadly Stabbing

(Coulee City, WA)  --   Grant County, Washington authorities say they've arrested a 17-year-old boy after his twin brother was stabbed to death in Coulee City.  Deputies who were dispatched to the home early yesterday morning found the wounded victim and rushed him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.  His twin brother is being investigated for manslaughter and domestic-violence assault.  An autopsy will be conducted.

Woman Accused Of Scalding 5-year-old Niece

(Olympia, WA)  --  Thurston County, Washington sheriff's deputies are investigating, after arresting a woman who's accused of abusing and scalding her five-year-old niece.  KOMO-TV reports deputies were sent to a hospital, where the child was being treated for bruises and significant burns.  The aunt was booked into the Thurston County Jail for investigation of first-degree assault of a child.  The child in now in protective custody.

Fuel Prices Increase Slightly

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline isn't changing much these days.  The Portland-area average for regular on this Presidents Day is two-56 a gallon, a penny higher than a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-28 a gallon.

Toddler Found By Authorities Now In Protective Custody

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a two-year-old boy who had vanished but was later found behind a bush two blocks from his home in Northeast Portland is now in protective custody.  Officials say it's likely the toddler, River, got out of the home sometime early Saturday morning through an unlocked door.  Police officers and a K-9 unit spent several hours searching before finding the toddler, who was then taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries and exposure to the cold.  A court hearing is slated for tomorrow on the case.
 

WA Legislators Revisit I-5 Bridge Replacement

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are introducing bipartisan legislation that would begin the process of replacing the Interstate 5 bridge between Vancouver and Portland.  Democratic Representative Sharon Wylie of Vancouver and Republican Senator Liz Pike of Camas have filed their respective bills.  They include a measure to facilitate "strong public participation" to identify the most affordable, efficient project that improves freight mobility and safety, relieves congestion, and meets the future needs of the region.  Both bills are under committee review.

John Lennon-inspired License Plate To Be Offered

(Olympia, WA)  --  Imagine... a new specialty license plate on the horizon for Washington state.  More than enough signatures have been gathered to create the John Lennon "Imagine" plate, which is intended to raise funding for the food-bank-supporting nonprofit Feeding Washington.  The plates would feature the famous self-portrait of Lennon with the word "imagine" across the bottom.  The Office of Financial Management tells "The Olympian" the plates would cost the state nearly 23-thousand dollars but would bring in more than 79-thousand dollars during the 2017-19 budget cycle.

Suspect Still At Large Following Vernonia Shooting

(Vernonia, OR)  --  Authorities say a suspect is being sought after allegedly firing multiple shots from his pickup truck, leaving a man wounded in Vernonia.  Columbia County sheriff's deputies have identified the suspect as Gregory Reynolds, who's accused of firing the shots Saturday afternoon in the 58-thousand block of Kirk Road.  Forty-five-year-old Lewis Cochrane was wounded and is being hospitalized.  Deputies describe Reynolds as white, six-feet-one, with brown hair and hazel eyes, last seen wearing dirty blue jeans and a dark-colored jacket, and is considered armed and dangerous.

One Arrested During Protest

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say they made one arrest during a demonstration against Portland police officers who shot and killed a teenager last week.  Protesters were chanting for justice following the death of 17-year-old Quanice Hayes.  Hayes died after being shot on February 9th.  Last night's rally and march started at Portland State University and proceeded through downtown Portland, and the arrest was made following a report of vandalism.

Police Group Supports "Middle-ground" Change To Deadly-force Law

(Olympia, WA)  --  A law-enforcement organization in Washington state says it's supporting proposed legislation that would change the state law protecting police who kill in the line of duty.  The Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs says the bill is a good example of "middle-ground" legislation that also calls for money to train police officers in areas that include de-escalation.  The bill would remove the "malice" element from the law, which prosecutors say gives officers immunity for acting recklessly or negligently as long as they lack evil intent.  No other state has a "malice" clause in use-of-force laws.

WA Lawmakers Push For Income-tax Amendment

(Olympia, WA)  --  An income tax for Washington state is being discussed as a way to generate revenue for education, but a number of Republican lawmakers want to end that discussion.  Several Republicans are supporting a proposed constitutional amendment that would prohibit a state income tax in Washington.  A House resolution was approved for a committee hearing this week, and is a companion to a Republican-backed Senate resolution.  A committee hearing will be held on the Senate resolution next week.

Man Accused In 87-year-old Father's Death

(Aurora, OR)  --  Authorities say an 87-year-old man who had been reported missing for months was found dead yesterday.  Investigators say the man's son, 59-year-old Edward Fitchett, told police his father had run off with a "mystery woman," but officers who executed a search warrant yesterday at the home of 87-year-old Henry Conley Fitchett, Jr. found the elder man's body in the home he shared with his son on Hubbard Cutoff Road Northeast in Marion County.  Edward Fitchett is charged with first-degree theft, first-degree criminal mistreatment, first-degree identity theft, and abuse of a corpse.

Robbery Victim Grabs Suspect's Shoe

(Aloha, OR)  --  Police say a man who was the victim of a robbery was able to pull off a shoe of one of the suspects while being dragged about 100 yards by the getaway car.  The knifepoint robbery happened on Southwest Donna Court in Aloha  around 7:00 last night.  Police say the victim was selling an iPhone through OfferUp when one of the two suspects who showed up for the supposed sale displayed a knife and took the device.  Authorities say the suspects, described as two Hispanic men, were in a tan 2003-2004 BMW X5 with no license plates.

Bill Would Allow Colleges To Expel Students Convicted Of Rioting

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill in the Oregon Legislature would give schools the authority to expel students who are caught rioting.  The measure by Republican State Senator Kim Thatcher would require community colleges and state universities in Oregon to expel students convicted of riot-related crimes.  The Oregon ACLU says it's watching the bill closely, calling it inconsistent with Oregon values.

Gas Prices Rise Slightly

(Portland, OR)  --  Drivers in the Portland area are paying a little more at the gas pump.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-53 a gallon, a penny above the average at this time last week.  The national average for a gallon of regular is two-29.

WA Supreme Court Rules Against Richland Florist

(Seattle, WA)  --  A Washington florist who refused to provide arrangements for a same-sex wedding says she'll appeal the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.  The Washington State Supreme Court voted unanimously yesterday against Barronelle Stutzman, saying she violated the state's anti-discrimination law by refusing to provide flowers for the wedding.  Stutzman had provided flowers for the couple before but told them her religious beliefs wouldn't allow her to service the wedding for the couple, Rob Ingersoll and Curt Freed.

Man Accused Of Murdering Wife

(Albany, OR)  --  A Lebanon man is accused of murdering his estranged wife on Valentine's Day.  The "Democrat-Herald" reports 33-year-old Jason Garlinghouse is charged with shooting Sparki Sue Garlinghouse multiple times.  Police say it appears the couple were in the middle of a custody battle.  John Garlinghouse is facing a murder charge.

Lawmakers Seek To Repeal Oregon 'Sanctuary State' Designation

(Salem, OR)  --  Republican lawmakers are introducing legislation that would roll back Oregon's designation as a "sanctuary state."  The bills also include one to make English the official language in Oregon.  Another would require state agencies and contractors they hire to use the federal E-Verify system, to check on whether prospective laborers are legally allowed to work in the U.S.  The legislation isn't being given much of a chance, with the House and Senate controlled by Democrats.

ACLU Wants PPB To Show Restraint During Protests

(Portland, OR)  --  The American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon wants the Portland Police Bureau to show restraint during protests.  The ACLU wants police to de-escalate and resort to use of force only as a last resort.  Portland Police Sergeant Pete Simpson says the Bureau welcomes suggestions from the ACLU.  He says the goal is to protect the First Amendment rights of protesters while maintaining public safety.

Man Accused Of Using Arrows To Kill Rescue Pig

(St. Helens, OR)  --  A St. Helens man is accused of killing a neighbor's pig with a bow and arrow.  Police have arrested 54-year-old George Bainbridge on charges of first-degree animal abuse and second-degree criminal mischief.  Bainbridge says the 500-pound pig, named DJ, was damaging his property and putting him in danger.  The pig's owner, Michelle Fudge-Snow, says the animal was harmless.  The Columbia County Sheriff's Office is investigating.
 

Inslee Names New Results Washington Director

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington Governor Jay Inslee will appoint a new director for the initiative he says will make state government more effective.  Inger Brinck is being brought in to be the new director of Results Washington.  The initiative is responsible for tracking and working with agencies and partners on projects related to education, the economy, the environment, health, safety and government effectiveness.  Brinck is currently senior performance analyst in the Office of the Controller for the City and County of San Francisco.  She's set to begin her new job on May 30th.

Timberline To Be Olympic Training Site

(Timberline Lodge, OR)  --  Oregon's Timberline Lodge ski area will be an official training site.  The U.S. Ski and Snowboard teams will train for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea.  John Burton, Timberline's Director of Marketing, tells KGW-TV the resulting agreement will help support elite-level athletes while promoting Timberline's world class training center.  Timberline will be allowed to license merchandise as part of the agreement.

"Deadliest Catch" Mourns Friends Lost In Bering Sea

(Seattle, WA)  --  Cast members of the popular reality show "Deadliest Catch" are expressing shock after their friends on a crabbing vessel vanished in the Bering Sea in Alaska.  The Seattle-based vessel "Destination" became lost Saturday after leaving St. George island with six crewmembers on board.  The Coast Guard suspended the search after three days and says it will now focus on why the 97-foot boat disappeared.  On its Facebook page, the "Deadliest Catch" producers sent out their thoughts and prayers to the crewmembers of the "Destination" and their families.

Oregon Ranked 30th Among Best States For Business

(Undated)  --  A new analysis from 24-7 Wall Street shows Oregon has one of the top 30 business climates in the nation.  Oregon comes in at number 30 overall, sporting the highest one-year real GDP change, the 21st-highest average salary, and the 17th-highest number of patents issued with nearly 24-hundred.  24-7 Wall Street also notes that more than 29 percent of businesses in the state report trouble finding qualified labor, slightly higher than the national share.  The top five states for business include Utah, Massachusetts, Idaho, Colorado, and North Dakota, with Washington coming in at number six.

WA Lawmaker: Bigfoot Deserves Recognition

(Olympia, WA)  --  A Washington state lawmaker is pushing for Bigfoot to get well-deserved recognition as the "state cryptid."  State Senator Ann Rivers says her bill would recognize the "immeasurable contributions to Washington state's cultural heritage and ecosystem" that Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch and Forest Yeti, have made.  The Republican senator says she got the idea for the legislation from a "very persuasive" letter sent by a second-grader.  Rivers says it's important that Washington act on this before Oregon does.

Man Gets Life Sentence For 1999 Deadly Stabbing

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A man who was on the run from the law for more than a decade will be spending the rest of his life behind bars.  A jury in Washington County convicted Efrain Sanchez-Diaz of the 1999 stabbing death of his ex-girlfriend, 21-year-old Maria Garcia Leonardo, at a Burger King in Tigard.  Authorities say Sanchez-Diaz fled to Mexico following his indictment, six months after Leonardo's death.  Sanchez-Diaz was extradited to the U.S. last year after he was found in Acapulco.

Accused Killer Accused Of Escape Attempt

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A man who's accused of killing three people and wounding a fourth in Woodland last July is facing new charges, after authorities said he tried to escape from the Clark County Jail.  Brent Luyster was already facing three counts of aggravated murder, and is now charged with possession of a weapon by a prisoner, malicious mischief, and attempted escape.  Officials say Luyster tried to escape Sunday night, but was foiled by a corrections officer making a security check.  Investigators say Luyster gunned down Joseph Lamar, Janell Knight, and Zach Thompson at a home in Woodland last July, and wounded Thompson's mother.
 

Washington Bill Targets Thieves Who Pray On Seniors

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are pushing legislation that targets thieves who pray on senior citizens.  KING-5 reports Washington is one of 13 states with no law specifically intended to protect adults considered "vulnerable," such as seniors and the disabled.  Legislators heard testimony yesterday from a woman who says her grandmother was bilked out of more than 200-thousand dollars.  There are separate House and Senate measures aimed at punishing those who steal from vulnerable adults.

Coast Guard To Focus On What Happened To Vessel

(St. George, AK)  --  The U.S. Coast Guard will shift its focus to determining what happened to the Seattle-based crabbing vessel that got lost off the Alaska coast.  The nearly-three-day search for the vessel "Destination," which had six crewmembers on board, was called off Monday night.  Coast Guard personnel say the 95-foot boat vanished Saturday morning after setting out from St. George island.   The Coast Guard was in the process yesterday of launching its investigation, and the National Transportation Safety Board will also likely investigate.

Bill Would Increase "Left-lane Camper" Fine

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill being considered by Washington lawmakers targets so-called "left-lane campers."  Under current law, those who choose to travel continuously in the left lane of a highway, which is considered the passing lane in Washington, are fined up to 136 dollars.  The measure would increase the maximum fine to 181 dollars.  Washington state troopers reportedly issued nearly 14-thousand citations for left-lane violations in 2015.

Portlanders Team Up To Eradicate Hate

(Portland, OR)  --  A number of community groups in Portland are collaborating on a campaign to eradicate hate.  The groups got together last night for a community event and vigil at Da Vinci Middle School to discuss the campaign and its new website, The No Hate Zone.  Organizers say the group's mission is to protect communities from hate and proactively create a strong base of support, and provide the tools and resources to combat oppression.
 

Bill Would Allow Only Pot Dispensaries To Sell Pipes, Paraphernalia

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon lawmakers are considering a measure that would only allow licensed marijuana dispensaries to sell drug paraphernalia, including pipes.   Representative Jodi Hack of Salem says the idea is to deter people under 21 from being able to purchase drug paraphernalia.  If it passes, the legislation would carry up to a two-thousand-dollar fine for non-dispensary businesses that sell paraphernalia.

Dempsey Making Progress After Heart Problem

(Charleston, SC)  --  Seattle Sounders star forward Clint Dempsey says he
plans on being more than just a spectator this season.  Dempsey had to watch his teammates from the sidelines for much of last year, as they won their first-ever MLS Cup.  He had been diagnosed in September with an irregular heartbeat, but says he's now 85-to-90-percent back to full fitness as he prepares for training camp in Charleston, South Carolina.  Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer says he plans for Dempsey to take it slow during camp with the goal of playing in the season opener in Houston next month.

Salem Woman Accused Of Stealing, Crashing Patrol Car While Handcuffed

(Salem, OR)  --  A Salem woman is in custody, after police say she was able to manipulate her handcuffs enough to steal a patrol car.  Authorities say 25-year-old Rebecca Payne was arrested yesterday at a motel on Hawthorne Avenue Northeast, and was able to slide a pair of cuffs off her legs and over her feet, then jump in the front seat of the patrol car and drive off.  Officers chased Payne for a short distance, but she was driving erratically and crashed the patrol car near Sunnyview Road Northeast and Childs Avenue Northeast.  Officials say a K-9 unit found Payne where she was hiding nearby, and she was arrested.

Seattle Immigrant Detained By Federal Authorities In Tacoma

(Seattle, WA)  --  A man who was brought to the U.S. illegally as a child but was protected from deportation by the Obama administration is now in custody in a federal detention center in Tacoma.  Federal authorities say 23-year-old Daniel Ramirez Medina was detained Friday by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.  Medina was brought to this country when he was seven-years-old and has a work permit under President Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.  Attorneys for Ramirez have reportedly filed a petition in federal court, asking the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and new Secretary John Kelly for Ramirez to be released.

Bill Would Require Presidential Candidates To Release Tax Returns

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill introduced in the Oregon Legislature would keep presidential candidates off the state ballot unless they make their tax returns public.  The measure is sponsored by the House Rules Committee, chaired by Democratic Representative Jennifer Williamson of Portland.  Under the measure, candidates couldn't appear on Oregon's ballot unless they release their federal tax returns for the previous five years.  Six other states have introduced similar legislation.

Report: Teen Suspect Killed By Officer Shot 3 Times

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say a teenage suspect who was killed by a police officer was shot three times.  Authorities say 17-year-old Quanice Hayes was suspected in an armed robbery outside the Portland Value Inn on Northeast 82nd Avenue last week.  Officials say Hayes died after being shot by seven-year Police Bureau veteran Andrew Hearst.  Investigators say Hayes was found to have a "realistic-looking" replica firearm following the shooting.

Seattle Council Approves 12 Weeks Of Paid Leave

(Seattle, WA)  --  Seattle will be offering city employees up to 12 paid weeks of parental leave.  The Seattle City Council voted unanimously yesterday in favor of the legislation backed by Mayor Ed Murray.  City employees are currently offered up to four weeks of paid parental leave.  Employees will become eligible for the 12 weeks after working for the city for at least six months.

Bill Would Allow Sales Of Wine Growlers At Retailers

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill being considered in Olympia would allow the sale of wine in growlers at Washington state bars, liquor stores, and other wine retailers.  Currently, Washington only allows wine sales in refillable containers at a winery's tasting room.  The bill's sponsor, Moses Lake Senator Judy Warnick, tells KING-5 it would benefit wineries and the state's wine industry, and would encourage recycling.  One winemaker, Josh Stottlemyer, says he doesn't like the idea of others filling growlers with his wine because the winemaker loses control of the quality of the product.

Portland Requests Federal Aid For January Storm

(Portland, OR)  --  The city of Portland is asking the federal government for about three-point-two-million dollars in disaster aid to help cover costs of responding to January's snow and ice storms.  City officials tell "The Oregonian" one of the largest costs was the estimated one-point-six-million dollars needed to remove snow and ice from city streets.  It cost more than a half-million to remove debris and repair traffic signs and markings, and another half-million to repair water-main breaks.

Pedestrian Killed In Beaverton

(Beaverton, OR)  --  Police say a pedestrian is dead, following a crash on Highway 26 in Beaverton.  Authorities say it happened last night on westbound 26 near the Cornell exit.  The pedestrian died at the scene, and the driver cooperated with the on-site investigation.  No names have been released.

Portland Among Healthiest Cities In U.S.

(Undated)  --  A new study ranks Portland among the healthiest cities in America.  Financial website WalletHub.com ranked the 150 biggest cities in the nation, based on choices for health care, food, fitness, and green space, and ranked Portland the fifth-healthiest in the U.S.  Vancouver is in 26th place.  The WalletHub study says San Francisco is the healthiest city in America, with Seattle at number four.
 

Coast Guard Suspends Search For Missing Fishing Vessel

(St. George, AK)  --  U.S. Coast Guard officials say they've suspended their search in Alaska for a Seattle-based fishing vessel with six people aboard.  The vessel "Destination" has been missing in the Bering Sea, off the coast of St. George Island, since early Saturday morning.  Officials say the debris found in the search for the crabbing boat is consistent with a sunken vessel, but there's been no sign of the crew.  
 

Cobain Guitar To Be Auctioned For Charity

(Portland, OR)  --  One of Kurt Cobain's guitars is being auctioned for charity.  A blue-sparkle Hagstrom guitar belonging to the late Nirvana frontman will be listed on eBay beginning this Friday to celebrate what would have been Cobain's 50th birthday, February 20th.  Ten percent of the auction proceeds will benefit Portland, Oregon-based Transition Projects, which helps people move from homelessness to housing.  The auction is set to run from eight a.m. February 16th through eight a.m. on the 26th.

Hillsboro Man Injured, Family Displaced In House Fire

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A Hillsboro man is being treated for burns on his hands after losing several vehicles during a fire at his home.  Fire department officials say the blaze started last night as the man was working on the fuel system of one of the vehicles in his enclosed garage at the home on Northeast Autumnwood Terrace.  The man told authorities he tried to fight the fire and suffered serious burns to his hands, and lost his two Corvettes and an SUV in the fire as it spread to the house.  At least two members of the man's family were in the home, but managed to get out safely.
 

SE Portland Fire Investigated

(Portland)  --  Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a house fire in Southeast Portland.  Officials say the blaze was reported around five a.m. Saturday in the 87-hundred block of Southeast Lambert Street.  The home was boarded up and appeared vacant.  No one was injured.

Man Arrested Following Carjacking, Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say they've arrested a suspect in a carjacking in Northeast Portland.  Authorities say the victim reported a man with a gun and a knife took his white Subaru Forester near Southeast 72nd Avenue and Lexington Street early yesterday morning.  Police spotted the stolen vehicle on westbound I-84 before it crashed near the 74th Avenue overpass, and the driver got out of the car and fled.  Police say after the Special Emergency Response Team stopped MAX and train traffic in the area, they tracked down the suspect and arrested him.

Still No McCleary Task Force Plan For Education

(Olympia, WA)  --  A legislative task force charged with recommending ways to fully fund public education in Washington has spent about a half-million dollars so far, but has yet to approve a formal proposal.  The Education Funding Task Force was created by lawmakers last year after they decided not to tackle the last main issue relating to the state Supreme Court's McCleary mandate.  Washington State Institute for Public Policy associate director Annie Pennucci tells the "Seattle Times" that nearly 90 percent of the 500-thousand dollars budgeted for the task force went toward a consulting company's work to compile and analyze the data.  She says most of the remainder paid for staff time the institute spent on task-force work.

Gas Prices Slip

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is slightly lower.  Triple-A reports the Portland-area average for regular is two-55 a gallon, a half-cent below the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-28 a gallon.

WA Lawmakers Revive Plans To Replace I-5 Bridge

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are moving forward with an effort to replace the Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River.  The measure introduced last week would declare replacing the span a project of "statewide significance."  If the bipartisan bill passes, Senate Bill 5806 would direct Washington Governor Jay Inslee to work with Oregon Governor Kate Brown to create an action committee of stakeholders and transportation officials.  It would also earmark 350-thousand dollars  for research, and directs the committee to come back at the end of this year with recommendations.
 

Bill Would Prohibit Non-smokers From Cigar-lounge Jobs

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill being heard in Olympia would make it illegal for non-smokers to work at cigar lounges in Washington.  Under the measure by Clark County Representative Brandon Vick, applicants would have to take a blood test to prove they are tobacco users.  Vick tells KING-5 the law would be good for the state's cigar industry and for consenting adults who want to smoke cigars somewhere other than their own homes.  The American Cancer Society describes the bill as "outrageous."

Injured OSP Trooper Back Home After 48 Days In Hospital

(King City, OR)  --  After 48 days in a hospital, Oregon State Trooper Nic Cederberg is back home.  Cederberg was wounded in a shootout with a homicide suspect on Christmas Day, and returned home to find all his Christmas presents wrapped in Valentine's Day paper.  The family posted constant updates on Cederberg's recovery on a GoFundMe page, which has reportedly raised about 95-thousand dollars.  His wife, Hayley Shelton, says her husband has a way to go with his recovery, but she's encouraged after the progress he's made so far.

Bill Would Split Washington In Two

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill introduced to the Washington Legislature would create the State of Liberty.  Legislation designed to split Washington into two states will be considered by lawmakers once again, as it did five other times in history.  Under the measure, the Western state would still be called Washington, and the state to the East would be called Liberty.  Republican Representative Matt Shea, who's sponsoring the bill, proposes that Spokane Valley become the capital and be renamed "Opportunity."

Oregon Zoo's "Packy" Dies At 54

(Portland, OR)  --  After a battle with tuberculosis, the Oregon Zoo's "Packy" is dead at age 54.  The elephant, who was a favorite of many zoo visitors, was euthanized yesterday morning.  He was the oldest male Asian elephant in North America.  The zoo's lead veterinarian, Dr. Tim Storms, tells KGW-TV the remaining treatments involved side effects that would have been very hard on Packy.  The elephant was born at the Oregon Zoo in April 1962.

Legislation Aimed At Curtailing Prescription Prices

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon state lawmakers are pondering legislation that supporters say is aimed at reducing prescription drug prices.  The "Portland Tribune" reports the bill would cap patients' out-of-pocket copayment for prescriptions, require pharmaceutical companies to explain steep increases in the cost of a medication, and mandate rebates when prices exceed a certain level.  Another measure would also require drug companies to include the average wholesale price of a medication in any type of direct consumer advertising.  Public hearings on the legislation will be held in the coming weeks.
 

Inslee: Washington Will Fight Feds Over Legal Pot

(Olympia, WA)  --  Governor Jay Inslee says Washington will try to persuade the U.S. Department of Justice and newly-sworn-in Attorney General Jeff Sessions that states should be allowed to decide for themselves on whether to legalize marijuana.  Sessions has gone on record as opposing legalization of marijuana.  Washington, Colorado, Oregon, California, Alaska, and the District of Columbia now allow people age 21 or older to use recreational marijuana.  Inslee says there's been no major increase in criminal activity or ill health effects reported following legalization.

Suspect Wounded In Officer-involved Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that wounded a man who threatened to kill himself.  Authorities say the 56-year-old man was shot around 7:15 last night during a confrontation after he got out of his car in the 33-hundred block of Southeast 22nd Avenue.  The man is listed in critical condition.  No police officers were injured.  The Portland Police Bureau says they'll release the identity of the man later today.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Steady

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are flat in the Portland area heading into the weekend.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-55 a gallon, about the same as a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-27 a gallon.

Inslee: 9th Circuit Decision "Victory" For WA

(Olympia, WA)  --  Governor Jay Inslee says the decision by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold the restraining order against President Trump's travel ban is a "victory" for Washington.  The appellate court upheld the decision by U.S. District Judge James Robart of Seattle.  The restraining order was issued last Friday after Trump's executive order to temporarily ban travel to the U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries.  The Justice Department says it's "reviewing the decision and considering its options."

Suspect In Armed Robbery Shot To Death

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Police say an officer shot and killed a suspect in an armed robbery.  Investigators say it happened yesterday morning after a robbery was reported at the Portland Value Inn on Northeast 82nd Avenue.  Police say an officer shot the suspect outside a home on Northeast Hancock Street, and he died at the scene.  The man's name hasn't yet been released.

Portland Ranked Among Best Places For Real-estate Agents

(Undated)  --  A new analysis by WalletHub ranks Portland among the best places to be a real-estate agent.  WalletHub compared 150 of the largest U.S. cities across more than a dozen key indicators.  Portland is ranked 12th overall, receiving solid scores in "job opportunity and competition" and "real-estate market health."  Vancouver is 18th and is one of four Washington cities to make the list, including Seattle, which is ranked 2nd.

Legal Marijuana Industry In Doubt With Sessions As A.G.

(Salem, OR)  --  The confirmation of U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions as the next attorney general poses a big challenge to the legal marijuana industry.  Sessions told the Caucus on International Narcotics Control last April that the drug is dangerous and that "good people don't smoke marijuana."  However, President Trump said during his campaign that marijuana legalization should be left to the states.  About 56 percent of Washington voters and nearly 55 percent in Colorado cast ballots in 2012 to legalize recreational marijuana, which is now also legal in Oregon, California, Alaska, and the District of Columbia.

Officials Say Conditions Right For More Landslides

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say conditions are right for more landslides in the Portland Metro in the coming days.  About one-thousand feet of debris collapsed onto Northwest Old Cornelius Pass Road in Hillsboro yesterday morning.  The Portland Bureau of Transportation says crews reopened Southwest Skyline several days after a landslide sent 900 tons of debris into the roadway.  Ali Ryan Hansen, spokesperson with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, tells KATU-TV all of Western Oregon could be at risk, not just the Portland Metro.

Lawmakers Target Illegal Gun Buyers

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are promoting a measure they say is aimed at saving lives.  House Bill 1501 would require law-enforcement agencies to notify a crime victim whose attacker tries to buy a gun.  If the attacker fails a background check conducted by a gun store, the victim would also be notified.  The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee.

Fuel Prices See Slight Increase

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is slightly higher in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-55 a gallon, about a half-cent higher than at this time last week.  The national average for a gallon of regular is two-26 a gallon.

Bill Would Eliminate Ban On Sunscreen At Schools

(Olympia, WA)  --  A move is underway in Washington to stop sunscreen from being banned in schools across the state.  State law currently requires any medication that a student has or uses requires both a note from a doctor and from a parent.  Sunscreen is considered an over-the-counter medication because it's regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.  A Senate committee is considering the bill, under which school employees wouldn't be required to apply sunscreen to a student, and schools wouldn't carry any liability from its use.

Port Clears Way For New Amazon Fulfillment Center

(Troutdale, OR)  --  A new Amazon fulfillment center is on the horizon in Troutdale, following a vote by the Port of Portland Commission.  The commission has approved the sale of 74 acres at the Troutdale Reynolds Industrial Park for the development of the Amazon facility, which would measure more than 800-thousand square feet.  "The Oregonian" reports Troutdale Associates LLC wants to purchase the site for about 20-million dollars and seeks to sign a long-term lease with Amazon.  The fulfillment center is projected to begin operation in 2018.

Authorities: Guns, Ammo, Drugs Seized From Tigard Home

(Tigard, OR)  --  Tigard police and Washington County sheriff's deputies say they confiscated various firearms, ammunition, and drugs at a home while executing a search warrant.  An investigation led to yesterday's raid at the house in the 92-hundred block of Southwest Hillview Street.  Authorities say investigators seized 21 guns, thousands of rounds of ammunition, a ballistic vest, and 26-hundred dollars in cash, along with methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.  Officials say 50-year-old Steven J. Johnson is being held in the Washington County Jail on multiple charges.

Bill Would Correct Problems That Led To Inaccurate Prison Sentences

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill being considered by Washington lawmakers is intended to help avoid the mistakes and missteps that have led to inaccurate prison and community-supervision sentences for offenders.  The measure would require courts to complete a standardized work sheet that accompanies offenders to prison.  Kirkland Representative Roger Goodman tells the "Seattle Times" the bill is designed to fix different calculating problems that led to premature release for prisoners or skewed community-supervision sentences.

Search Conducted For Man Reported Missing

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are looking for a man who had left to pick up his wife from the hospital but never showed.  Authorities say 75-year-old Ronald Austin left the Silver Cloud Inn on Northwest Vaughn Street at 5 a.m. yesterday to get his wife from Good Samaritan Hospital on Northwest 23rd Avenue.  Austin is described as white, five-feet-six, weighing 160 pounds, and drives a white 2006 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with a canopy and Oregon license plates 936CQZ.  Anyone with information is asked to call 503-823-1081.

Survey: Oregon Ranked In Top 25 For Singles

(Undated)  --  Washington is one of the best places to live for singles.  That's according to a new WalletHub survey, which compares the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 23 key indicators of dating-friendliness.  Washington state is in first place, with important factors including "share of single adults" to "movie costs" to "nightlife options per capita."  Oregon is in 22nd place, according to WalletHub.  Colorado, California, Montana, and South Dakota round out the top five.
 

PPS To Choose Which School Bond To Put Before Voters

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland Public Schools district will soon decide how voters will be asked to come up with funding to improve and repair school buildings.  PPS staff is holding four public town hall-styled meetings this month to get input on which plan would go before voters, perhaps as early as this May.  Officials say the projects will certainly include replacing lead pipes and fixtures to improve water quality, replacing tiles, and shoring up general infrastructure at schools throughout the district.  PPS Interim Chief Operating Officer Courtney Wilton tells KATU-TV the bond measure would likely cost homeowners around 24 dollars per month per household over a 30-year period.

Water-treatment Plant Considered After Parasite Found

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials are approaching the possibility of a water-treatment plant for the Bull Run Watershed, after traces of a parasite called cryptosporidium were found.  Officials say levels of the microorganism don't pose a risk to public health, but the treatment plant is being discussed.  About five years ago, Portland received a ten-year exemption from treating its water for cryptosporidium because the parasite hadn't shown up in tests for a decade.  KOIN-TV reports water samples have tested positive for cryptosporidium four times within the past five weeks.

Seattle To Drop Wells Fargo Over Pipeline Funding

(Seattle, WA)  --  It appears the city of Seattle will be finding a new bank to handle its funds.  A committee of the City Council voted unanimously yesterday to remove about three-billion-dollars in city business from Wells Fargo in response to the bank's backing of the Dakota Access Pipeline.  The Council says the aim is to strengthen the city's policies for conducting city business with partners that are committed to fair business practices.  Mayor Ed Murray sent a letter to the bank last October, stating that the city would withdraw from a 100-million-dollar bond it was negotiating through Wells Fargo in light of its opening of accounts without customer knowledge.

Reed College Student Dies Following Fire

(Portland, OR)  --  A Reed College student who was critically injured in an apartment fire has died of her injuries.  Mara Gibbs was pulled out of the burning apartment Sunday at the Garden Park complex and taken to a hospital.  Two other women were able to escape the flames by jumping from a second-floor window.  Gibbs died yesterday morning.  Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the fire.

Mexico Trade War To Have Relatively Little Impact On Oregon

(Undated)  --  When Mexico refused to pay for a border wall, President Trump proposed a 20-percent tax on Mexican imports.  That would help pay for the 15 to 25 billion dollar wall, but the experts think it could trigger a trade war.  WalletHub did a study on which states would be most affected, and Oregon comes in at 45th.  Mexico is the third-largest trading partner of the U.S.

City Of Vancouver Backs I-5 Bridge Replacement Resolution

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A vote by the Vancouver City Council supports an effort to declare replacing the Interstate 5 Bridge over the Columbia River a project of statewide importance.  The Council is hoping the resolution will add to the voices calling on the Washington State Legislature to act more quickly to ease congestion along the I-5 corridor.  The Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council, which includes Oregon Metro, is expected to vote today on the resolution.  The "Spokesman-Review" reports lawmakers are expected this week to introduce legislation that also would call for prioritizing the I-5 corridor.

Lawyers Grilled On Travel Ban

(Washington, DC)  --  A three-judge panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could make a decision later this week on President Trump's ban on travel from select Muslim-majority countries.  Attorneys representing both sides faced tough questions from the judges during yesterday's hearing.  Arguments defending the ban countered arguments seeking to have it thrown out since a temporary restraining order was issued against it Friday by federal Judge James Robart of Seattle.

Poll Ranks Seattle Among Best Places To Live

(Undated)  --  Seattle is up a notch on this year's annual "U.S. News & World Report" list of best cities in which to live.  Seattle comes in sixth, up from seventh last year.  Austin, Texas, is at the top, followed by Denver; San Jose; Washington, DC; and Fayetteville, Arkansas.  Portland, Oregon, is at number 32, six notches below Portland, Maine, at number 26.

9th Circuit Appellate Court To Consider Travel Ban Restraining Order

(San Francisco, CA)  --  Briefs filed by the states of Washington and Minnesota will be considered by a three-judge panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.  The two states will argue that the temporary restraining order against President Trump's executive order to ban travel to the U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries should remain in place.  The federal government believes the injunction, brought Friday by federal Judge James Robart of Washington, should be lifted.  The panel of judges could issue a ruling tomorrow.

Woman Killed In Crash Near Banks

(Banks, OR)  --  Oregon State Police are investigating a crash that killed a Forest Grove woman.  Authorities say a Chrysler van driven yesterday by 28-year-old Nicole Brook Akers crossed the center line on Highway 47 near Banks and collided with an oncoming truck.  Akers died at the scene, and five people in the truck suffered minor injuries.  Police say weather and road conditions were considered a factor in the crash.

Bill Calls For End To Daylight Saving Time

(Olympia, WA)  --  Daylight saving time is to begin March 12th, and some Washington lawmakers hope it will be for the last time.  A bill that's awaiting action in a Senate committee would eliminate daylight saving time throughout the year in Washington.  Previous tries have failed, the last time in 2015.  Only two states, Arizona and Hawaii, stay on the same time throughout the year.

People Told To Avoid Willamette River

(Portland, OR)  --  People are being strongly urged to avoid the Willamette River after Portland's combined sewer system overflowed into it.  Officials say it started around 1:30 yesterday afternoon near the Ross Island Bridge, and that warning was to be in effect for 48 hours.  KOIN-TV reports it's the third sewage overflow into the river this winter.

2 Teens Killed In Crash With OSP Pickup Truck

(Coos Co., OR)  --  Two 18-year-olds are dead, following a crash involving an Oregon State Police pickup truck.  Authorities say one of the teens lost control of his vehicle yesterday and veered across the center line oh Highway 101, crashing head-on into the pickup.  Both 18-year-olds in the car were killed, and a 16-year-old is being treated for life-threatening injuries.  The trooper suffered minor injuries.

Portland Is 5th Coziest City

(Undated)  --  A study conducted by Honeywell International, maker of heaters and other consumer products, says Portland is one of the coziest cities in the nation.  In fact, Portland is solidly in fifth place.  The Honeywell report noting nearby skiing in Bend, a large selection of coffee shops, and a high number of tiny homes help Portland claim its spot on this year's Top 10 Coziest Cities list.  Boston is number one and Seattle is in third place.
 

Bill Would Increase Penalty For Distracted Driving

(Salem, OR)  --  A measure introduced in the Oregon Legislature would make penalties for distracted driving as serious as those for drunk driving.  The bill's sponsor, Senate President Peter Courtney, says it would make distracted driving punishable by up to a year in jail and thousands of dollars in fines.  Cortney says he may not have the votes to advance the bill, but it's a step in the right direction.  The current maximum penalty for distracted driving is a 160-dollar fine.

Gas Prices Flat

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices are little changed in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-55 a gallon, about the same as a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-27 a gallon.

Portland Council OKs Tenant Relocation Ordinance

(Portland, OR)  --  An ordinance that would require landlords to help pay moving expenses for tenants who are evicted without cause or have to move after a steep rent increase will move forward, after a unanimous vote by the Portland City Council.  Councilwoman Chloe Eudaly, who sponsored the temporary ordinance, says it's the only tool the city of Portland has to protect renters.  The ordinance is to be in effect for eight months.  Mayor Ted Wheeler says more lower-income housing is still needed to help resolve the problem of high rents.
 

Reward Offered For Information On Woman's Murder

(Portland, OR)  --  A reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest in the murder of a Clackamas County woman.  Crimestoppers of Oregon is asking for tips with information that may help solve the murder of Merrilee Cooley, whose body was found in the trunk of her car after she was reported missing in late December.  Milwaukie Police found Cooley's Kia Optima abandoned in the parking lot of the Miramont Lodge Apartment complex on Southeast McLaughlin Boulevard on January 5th.  Anyone with helpful information is asked to call 503-823-4357.

Nordstrom Dropping Ivanka Trump Brand

(Seattle, WA)  --  Nordstrom says it's no longer selling the Ivanka Trump brand, indicating slow sales as the primary reason for the action.  Officials with the Seattle-based retailer haven't mentioned politics as a possible reason for the decision, saying the move is a normal part of the retail business.  The Ivanka Trump line includes an extensive array of apparel, including shoes and accessories.

Two Proposals Would Tighten Washington Gun Laws

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington state lawmakers are considering legislation that supporters say is designed to tighten gun laws.  One measure would require an annual license from a local law-enforcement agency to own, buy, or sell a semi-automatic rifle, and would step up the background-check process for buying such a weapon.  Another bill would require safe storage of firearms.  Both measures are backed by Governor Jay Inslee.

Little Girl Wounded In East Oak Cliff Shooting

(Dallas, TX)  --  A little girl is being treated for a gunshot wound after bullets shattered a window at the family's East Oak Cliff apartment this morning.  Just before 1:30 a.m., shots were fired at The Oasis, a complex on Ledbetter near Bonnie View.  Dallas police are not saying who did it.  The three-year-old girl was shot in the leg.
 

Tarrant County Sheriff Wants His Own Jailers To Identify Inmates Who Are Illegal Immigrants

(Fort Worth, TX)  --  Tarrant County's sheriff is applying to be part of a voluntary federal program to help identify illegal immigrants.  Under the program, Sheriff Bill Waybourn's jailers would be permitted to place an immigration hold on inmates until the feds can collect them.  Waybourn says when illegal immigrants commit crimes in Tarrant County, it becomes his office's business.

Dallas Officer Says He Was Refused Service At An Oak Cliff Golden Chick

(Dallas, TX)  --  Richardson-based Golden Chick is trying to make amends after a Dallas police officer was refused service at a restaurant in Oak Cliff.  Yesterday, the officer said he tried to order food at the Golden Chick on Kiest near I-35 when he was told by an employee "... we don't serve your kind here."  Without being specific, Golden Chick says "... swift action ..." was taken.

Fort Worth Stock Show Ends Its 23-Day Run Tomorrow

(Fort Worth, TX)  --  The 121st Fort Worth Stock Show And Rodeo ends its 23-day run tomorrow.  The final item on the schedule is Saturday night's performance of the World's Original Indoor Rodeo at the Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum.  It will feature the top twelve contestants in each event from 28 preliminary, qualifying performances.

Fort Worth Child Collapses At School And Dies

(Fort Worth, TX)  --  Parents, teachers and school counselors face the sad task of explaining to classmates how a five-year-old girl died yesterday.  Belen Maldonado collapsed in the cafeteria at Worth Heights Elementary.  She died at the hospital about an hour later.  The Medical Examiner has not decided on what caused her death.

Federal Appeals Court Hands Delta A Victory Over Southwest Airlines At Love Field

(Dallas, TX)  --  A federal appeals court has handed Delta Air Lines a victory over Southwest Airlines at Dallas Love Field.  The ruling permits Delta to keep running five flights a day out of Love.  The decision upholds a lower court's opinion that Southwest cannot push Delta out simply because Southwest is growing its schedule.

Salem Woman Accused Of Assaulting Child With Guitar

(Salem, OR)  --  A Salem woman is facing charges after being accused of assaulting a young girl.  Police say 30-year-old Miriam Delarosa hit the child with a guitar, a belt, and a baseball bat.  Delarosa is charged with multiple counts of second-degree assault and first-degree criminal mistreatment.  Police say the assaults happened during late January.

Oregon Legislature May Raise Legal Smoking Age

(Salem, OR)  --  Some Oregon lawmakers are moving to raise the legal smoking age in the state from 18 to 21.  The bill, sponsored by Senator Elizabeth Steiner Hayward of Beaverton, would apply to use of all tobacco products.  An American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network poll shows 64 percent of Oregonians support raising the tobacco age to 21.  The bill is expected to be officially introduced this week.

Oregon Ranked 27th For Dental Health

(Undated)  --  If you want that brilliant smile, a WalletHub.com survey ranks Oregon 27th in the nation in dental care.  The analysis says Oregon is 24th in the category of oral health.  The state falls to number 30 in the category of dental habits & care.  Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, North Dakota, and Connecticut make up the top five in dental care in the U.S., and Washington comes in at number 16.

Gas Prices Drop

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area gas prices are seeing a slow drop.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-55, down a penny a gallon from this time last week.  The national average for regular is two-28 a gallon.

Friday Won't Be "Made Up" If It Snows

(Portland, OR)  --  With the threat of snow and ice making a return to Portland, PPS officials say Friday won't have to be made up by students as a snow day if schools are closed or delayed.  Officials say Friday is already a scheduled day off for students, but will be a work day for teachers.  If snow keeps teachers away on Friday, they'll have to make it up later.

PBOT To Use 100 Tons Of Rock Salt For Upcoming Storm

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Bureau of Transportation officials say they're working to make streets safer as wintry weather rolls back over the area.  PBOT says that will include the distribution of 100 tons of rock salt along North Going Street, Southwest Terwilliger Boulevard, and Southeast 112th Avenue.  Officials say it will be the largest use of salt in Portland's modern history.  The agency says it will also expand its plow routes to 340 more lane miles that are school bus routes.

WA Senate Passes Overhaul Of School Taxes, Spending

(Olympia, WA)  --  Legislation that would make major changes in how Washington state raises taxes and pays for public schools is advancing to the House.  The Senate narrowly passed the bills, which would mean reduced property taxes for some residents and increases for others.  Governor Jay Inslee says the Republican plan is "flat wrong," while Republicans say it provides fairer and more transparent funding.  Supporters say it focuses more on students who have special needs, are homeless, or who have to overcome language issues.

Lawmaker Wants To Eliminate Daylight Saving Time

(Olympia, WA)  --  A move is underway in Olympia to do away with Daylight Saving Time in Washington.  Republican State Senator Jim Honeyford has introduced a measure that would keep the state on Pacific Standard Time year round.  Honeyford cites a 2014 study published in a medical journal, which found the number of heart attacks increased 24 percent on the Monday following Daylight Saving Time, compared with the daily average for the weeks surrounding the time change.  Honeyford's bill is waiting to be heard in the Senate State Government Committee.

Landlords Say They'll Sue If No-cause Ordinance Passes

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland City Council is expected to vote this week on whether to approve an ordinance that supporters say is aimed at protecting tenants.  It would force landlords to pay for no-cause evictions and certain rent increases.  Advocates for landlords and property owners say they plan to sue the city if the proposed ordinance passes.  The Council may vote on the issue tomorrow.

Officials ID Body Found In Multnomah Channel

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a body recovered this week from the Multnomah Channel is that of a woman who was reported missing on January 19th.  The Multnomah County Medical Examiner's Office says 62-year-old Liz Bazzani drowned, and there are no signs of foul play.  A boater called 911 after spotting the body Monday afternoon.

Insulin Lawsuit Names Oregon, Washington As Potential Beneficiaries

(Portland, OR)  --  Oregon and Washington are named as potential beneficiaries in a federal lawsuit filed this week against drug companies that make insulin.  KGW-TV reports the lawsuit, representing all 50 states, accuses insulin manufacturers Sanofi, Novo Nordisk, and Eli Lilly of conspiring to raise prices, despite no alleged change in costs to produce the products.  President Donald Trump has noted that while drug companies have produced extraordinary results, prices have been astronomical.  Trump says he has plans to lower taxes and FDA regulations to provide incentive for pharmaceutical companies to reduce prices.

Victims In Quadruple Homicide Identified

(Seabeck, WA)  --  Officials with the Kitsap County, Washington Coroner's Office say they've identified the victims in a quadruple homicide.  Three of them were found in a burning home in Seabeck and have been identified as 16-year-old Hunter Schaap, 16-year-old Johnathon Higgins and 37-year-old Christale Lynn Careaga .  Officials say the charred remains of 43-year-old John Careaga were found in a burned-out pickup truck located nearby in Mason County.  Authorities haven't identified any suspects.

Oregon Democrats Critical Of Trump SCOTUS Nominee

(Washington, DC)  --  Democratic members of Oregon's congressional delegation are criticizing President Donald Trump's choice to fill a vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court.  Senator Ron Wyden says the nomination of federal appeals court Judge Neil Gorsuch represents a retreat from the notion that Americans have a fundamental right to Constitutional liberties.  Junior Senator Jeff Merkley calls Gorsuch "an illegitimate and extreme nominee."  President Trump says Gorsuch has "outstanding legal skills, a brilliant mind, tremendous discipline, and has earned bipartisan support."

Wilson: Trump Presidency "Getting Out Of Hand"

(Seattle, WA)  --  Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, who generally avoids commentary of a political nature, says Donald Trump's presidency is "getting out of hand" after less than two weeks.  Wilson made the remarks yesterday while being shown live, via Facebook, getting a haircut.  He says he doesn't know whether Trump will last four years but he hopes "nothing goes wrong any more than it's already doing."  Wilson will begin his sixth NFL season later this year.

Whooping Cough Case Reported At Beaverton HS

(Beaverton, OR)  --  Officials at Beaverton High School say they've informed parents of a case of whooping cough that's been confirmed at the school.  The disease is highly contagious when direct contact is involved.  Symptoms of whooping cough, also called pertussis, often start similarly to a cold, followed by a severe cough that can last for weeks or even months.  Parents who want more information can call the Metropolitan Area Pertussis Surveillance program at 503-988-8816.
 

Inslee: Republican Property Tax Plan "Flat Wrong"

(Olympia, WA)  --  Republicans in the Washington State Senate are proposing replacing local school levies with a statewide property tax to help fund public education.  Lawmakers say the actions would result in lower property taxes for most of Washington, while some areas would see their property taxes rise.  Governor Jay Inslee calls the proposal "flat wrong," saying it unfairly targets property owners in Western Washington, who would end up paying more in property taxes while residents of Eastern Washington would pay less.  Inslee's plan calls for a new capital-gains tax, a carbon tax, and increases in the state's business taxes for professionals to increase school funding.

Police: WA Woman Claims To Be Serial Killer

(Edmonds, WA)  --  Police say an Edmonds, Washington woman who was arrested for stabbing a man told investigators she planned to kill the man, eat his heart, and leave a note on his body so police would know she planned to kill again.  Authorities say 24-year-old Amy Brown is accused of stabbing the 29-year-old man in the chest late Sunday, in a room at a motel in Lynnwood.  Police say Brown reportedly told the victim, whom she had met through a Craigslist ad, that she was a serial killer.  The man, who was able to escape from the room and summon help, suffered a punctured lung and is being hospitalized.

Archives:

2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01 | 2017-12 | 2017-11 | 2017-10 | 2017-09 | 2017-08 | 2017-07 | 2017-06 | 2017-05 | 2017-04 | 2017-03 | 2017-02 | 2017-01 | 2016-12 | 2016-11 | 2016-10 | 2016-09 | 2016-08 | 2016-07 | 2016-06 | 2016-05 | 2016-04 | 2016-03 | 2016-02 | 2016-01 | 2015-12 | 2015-11 | 2015-10 | 2015-09 | 2015-08 | 2015-07 | 2015-06 | 2015-05 | 2015-04 | 2015-03 | 2015-02 | 2015-01 | 2014-12 | 2014-11 | 2014-10 | 2014-09 | 2014-08 | 2014-07 | 2014-06 | 2014-05 | 2014-04 | 2014-03 | 2014-02 | 2014-01 | 2013-12 | 2013-11 | 2013-10 | 2013-07 | 2013-06 | 2013-05 | 2013-04 | 2013-03 | 2013-02 | 2013-01 | 2012-12 | 2012-11 | 2012-10 | 2012-09 | 2012-08 | 2012-07 | 2012-06 | 2012-05 | 2012-04 | 2012-03 | 2012-02 | 2012-01 | 2011-12 | 2011-11 | 2011-10 | 2011-09 | 2011-08 | 2011-07 | 2011-06 | 2011-05 | 2011-04 | 2011-03 | 2011-02 | 2011-01 | 2010-12 | 2010-11

On Air Now

George Noorey
George Noorey
12:00am - 2:00am
Coast to Coast

FlashAlert

KBND ON FACEBOOK

News Disclaimers