Search Results

Strengthening the City’s Commitment to Community-Focused Service Jeffrey Hairston (Photo courtesy of City of Gresham) The City of Gresham announced today that Fire Chief Derik Minard will be departing the organization, effective December 12, to accept the position of Fire Chief for the City of Savannah, Georgia.   “Chief Minard brought stability and strength to Gresham Fire at a critical moment, and we are grateful for his service,” said City Manager Eric Schmidt. “His leadership, vision, and contributions have set up the Gresham Fire Department for long-term success.   With Chief Minard's departure, the City has named Assistant Chief Jeffrey Hairston as Gresham’s next Fire Chief, effective December 13. A top finalist in the City’s most recent national recruitment for Fire Chief, Hairston received strong evaluations throughout the interview process in 2024.   “Chief Hairston is a respected and proven leader who will continue the strong momentum started by Chief Minard," said Schmidt. "He understands the unique needs of this organization, believes deeply in this community, and is ready to lead the department forward.”   Over the coming weeks, the city will work closely with both Chief Minard and Chief Hairston to support a smooth transition and maintain operational continuity.   “Gresham Fire has made tremendous progress in recent years,” Schmidt added. “With Chief Hairston’s leadership and our strong Command Staff, Local 1062, and support staff, the department is well-positioned for the future.”   Incoming Chief Hairston shared his gratitude and vision for the work ahead, noting, “I’m honored to serve as the next Fire Chief of the Gresham Fire Department. We have important work ahead of us, and none of it can be done alone. I’m committed to strengthening our service, supporting our firefighters, and building deeper relationships with the communities we serve. With partnership, transparency, and everyone’s support, we will move this department forward together.”   The City of Gresham extends its appreciation to Chief Minard for his service and congratulates Chief Hairston on his appointment as Gresham’s next Fire Chief.

Protect your SNAP & TANF Benefits Photo courtesy of Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) The Oregon Department of Human Services is encouraging people in Oregon to take action today to protect the SNAP food and TANF cash benefits on their EBT cards from electronic theft like card skimming, card cloning, phishing and other similar methods. Most theft occurs in the beginning of the month immediately after SNAP and TANF benefits are issued to EBT cards. Criminals use methods like skimming devices, internet scams and fake websites to steal card numbers and personal identification numbers (PIN). Once they have this information, they use online or out-of-state purchases to drain SNAP food and TANF cash benefits from a person’s card. In October, approximately 220 households reported to ODHS that nearly $86,000 worth of SNAP food and TANF cash benefits had been stolen from their EBT cards. Criminals were blocked from stealing EBT benefits 104 times because people took action to protect their EBT cards. “People and families in Oregon rely on their SNAP food and TANF cash benefits to help them meet their basic needs,” said Director Liesl Wendt. “Taking simple steps like changing your PIN, locking your cards and blocking online and out-of-state purchases works and keeps your benefits safe. We encourage everyone to do this today.” The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) recommends several steps for everyone with an EBT card to keep their benefits safe. First, it is important to only use the official ebtEDGE website and the mobile app for Apple or Android devices, as ODHS does not guarantee the safety of any other apps or websites that manage EBT accounts. Cardholders should consider freezing their EBT card between uses as an extra layer of protection, and unfreeze it only when ready to make a purchase. This can be done through the ebtEDGE website or mobile app under "Freeze Card" in the Account Services section. Additionally, users have the option to block out-of-state and online purchases, which can help prevent unauthorized transactions. These blocks can be managed under “Protect My Account” in Account Services and removed when desired. Changing the PIN regularly is another key security measure. Updating the PIN frequently can protect the account if someone gains access to the card number. PINs can be changed by calling 888-997-4447 or logging into the ebtEDGE website. It is also essential to keep the PIN secret, never share it, and avoid writing it on the card. Users should cover the keypad when entering their PIN in public, as small cameras can capture the input. Inspecting card readers carefully before swiping the card at ATMs or other machines is recommended, as skimming devices are sometimes placed over legitimate readers. Any suspicious-looking devices should be avoided and reported to the business immediately. Monitoring EBT account activity regularly is crucial. Cardholders should check for unusual charges and report any unauthorized transactions immediately. In such cases, they should cancel the card and request a replacement either by calling the EBT Replacement Line at 1-855-328-6715 or visiting an ODHS benefits office. Additionally, individuals should never respond to suspicious texts requesting their card number or PIN, as ODHS will never ask for this information through text messages. Social media scams should also be avoided, and only posts from official ODHS accounts should be trusted regarding benefits information. More detailed guidance is available on the Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits webpage, which includes brochures, flyers, and wallet cards in multiple languages. Short videos explaining how to use and replace an EBT card, as well as ways to protect benefits, are posted in the How-to Videos section of benefits.oregon.gov . According to October reports, 223 Oregon households were affected by EBT benefit theft. Of these, 104 theft attempts failed because cardholders had taken steps to protect their cards. The breakdown of thefts by program shows 49 cases in TANF and 559 cases in SNAP. The total dollar amount of stolen benefits reached $85,902, with $17,108 taken from TANF (cash) and $68,794 from SNAP (food). NOTE :  This data represents only what has been reported to the Oregon Department of Human Services and likely undercounts actual instances of EBT theft experienced by people in Oregon. ODHS can replace Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits that are lost due to fraud. TANF families who believe benefits have been stole from their EBT card should contact ODHS to request replacement benefits within 30 days of the benefits being stolen. The federal funding to replace benefits ran out on Dec. 21, 2024, and ODHS is no longer authorized to replace stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Alabama Assistant Brings Pac-12 Experience and Offensive Firepower to Rebuilding Beavers Alabama wide receiver coach JaMarcus Shephard speaks to the media after the team’s spring NCAA college football practice, March 8, 2024, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File) (AP) — Oregon State on Friday announced the hiring of Alabama assistant JaMarcus Shephard as its head coach, replacing Trent Bray, who was fired following the Beavers’ 0-7 start. The 42-year-old Shephard has been on Kalen DeBoer’s staff for two years and most recently has served as assistant head coach, co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. He previously was an assistant under DeBoer at Washington for two years. He also has been on staffs at Purdue, Washington State and Western Kentucky. “I’m extremely excited to announce JaMarcus Shephard as the head coach of the Oregon State football program,” athletic director Scott Barnes said. “His character and persona are top-notch and genuine, which will make all of Beaver Nation proud. His values align perfectly as an exceptional leader who fosters a sincere connection with his student athletes. He has coached at the highest level, with stops in the Pacific Northwest, and I cannot wait to see him on the recruiting trail and leading our football program to immediate success.” Shephard will be formally introduced at a news conference Tuesday. “I’m honored to lead the Oregon State University football program and to join a community that cares so deeply about its student-athletes,” Shephard said. “We will build a culture rooted in toughness, integrity, and relentless effort, and I’m excited to get to work with our players, staff, and supporters to write the next great chapter of Beaver football.” The Beavers are about to wrap up their second straight losing season since Jonathan Smith’s departure for Michigan State. Oregon State and Washington State are the only remaining members of the Pac-12 and have played independent schedules for two seasons since 10 members left for other conferences. A reconstituted Pac-12 will begin playing football again in 2026. Bray led Oregon State to a 4-1 start last season and then lost 13 of 14 games before he was fired Oct. 12, the day after a 39-14 home loss to Wake Forest. The Beavers are 2-2 under interim coach Robb Akey and take a 2-9 record into Saturday’s final game at Washington State. Shephard followed DeBoer to Alabama in February 2024 after Washington made its run to the national championship game against Michigan. At Washington, Shephard was passing game coordinator and receivers coach for an offense that averaged 343.7 yards passing per game with Michael Penix at quarterback and Rome Odunze as his main target. Shephard played college football from 2001-04 at Division III DePauw, where he was a standout receiver and kick returner.

TriMet Implements Initial Cost-Saving Cuts First round of planned service reductions puts TriMet on course to align spending with revenue. (Photo courtesy of TriMet) Fewer buses began running on five TriMet lines in the evenings starting Sunday, Nov. 30, with service reduced during lower-ridership hours. TriMet also adjusted several bus schedules to improve on-time performance and restored service to Southwest Campus Drive following a long-term detour. The reductions that took effect Nov. 30 mark the first step in a multiyear effort to align service levels with available revenue, address a $300 million annual budget gap, and ensure TriMet can continue providing safe, reliable and convenient transit in the future. On five bus lines, buses will arrive less often during evening hours when fewer people are riding. Bus arrival times will shift on several more lines, due to schedule adjustments. After 9 p.m., buses on several lines will now arrive hourly, including Line 35-Macadam/Greeley and Line 52-Farmington/185th on all days, as well as Line 77-Broadway/Halsey and Line 81-Kane/257th on weekdays. FX2-Division, TriMet’s Frequent Express line between Gresham and Downtown Portland, will run less often after 7 p.m. on all days. FX2 buses, which usually arrive about every 12 minutes throughout the day, will instead arrive every 24 to 35 minutes in the evenings. This round of service cuts won’t affect how late buses run. Buses will run at this reduced frequency through their last scheduled trip of the night.  TriMet is adjusting schedules by up to 10 minutes to help keep buses on time on several lines, including Line 70-12th/NE 33rd Ave on all days, Line 71-60th Ave on weekdays, Line 72-Killingsworth/82nd on weekends, and both Line 287-Blue Eastside Bus and Line 288-Blue Westside Bus on all days. Line 45-Garden Home will also see a schedule adjustment of up to 4 minutes to better match school bell times on weekdays. Additionally, the following lines will resume serving stops on Southwest Campus Drive in Portland: Line 8-Jackson Park/NE 15th, Line 43-Taylors Ferry/Marquam Hill, and Line 56-Scholls Ferry/Marquam Hill. These lines have been detoured since summer 2024 due to construction at the OHSU Marquam Hill campus. Visit  trimet.org/servicechanges  to view updated bus schedules. Plan your trip by visiting  trimet.org .

One Year Since Near Bankruptcy, Community Cycling Center Has Recovered Community Cycling Center One year ago, the Community Cycling Center announced it was at risk of closing its doors after more than a quarter century serving Portland’s youth and families. Thanks to strong community support, decisive internal changes, and renewed focus, the organization enters the 2025 holiday giving season in a more stable position, while still relying on donor support to sustain and grow its mission. Staff and volunteers of the Community Cycling Center hope that you can spread cheer by ensuring 400 people in 2026 gain access to free bikes and continue supporting our community through no-cost bike clubs, bike camps, the Repair Hub and so much more.   Over the past year, the Community Cycling Center surveyed over 100 community members and completed a strategic planning process, informing key operational changes. Retail space in the Alberta shop was redesigned to respond to customer needs, expand revenue-generating services, and support a better visitor experience. Customer service with a trauma informed lens is now a core training priority for all front-line staff while also hosting more community events such as bike fairs and community advocacy rides.   Despite scaling the annual operating budget by 25 percent, primarily in admin costs, the organization has continued to expand its impact. Across all programs, more than 400 bicycles have been provided to families and youth in the past year. Before the pandemic, similar numbers were only achieved during the organization’s large-scale Holiday Bike Drive event. Today, bikes are distributed through multiple community-based partnerships and year-round programming allowing community members access to bikes during dryer riding seasons, and giving staff the ability to have multiple touch points with the people they serve throughout the year.   The volunteer program has also rebounded. Volunteer engagement is now the strongest it has been since before the pandemic at 1,420 hours, fueling bike builds, repairs, and community programs.   “This past year showed what’s possible when Portland rallies around equitable access to transportation,” said Ruben Alvarado, Executive Director. “We’re not just keeping the doors open. We’re rebuilding a stronger, more community-centered Cycling Center that reflects what our neighbors have told us they need.”   Looking ahead, the Community Cycling Center is focused on financial sustainability, expanding program capacity, and deepening community partnerships. Holiday giving continues to be an essential part of making that work possible.   At the Community Cycling Center’s core, it simply wants to spread joy and empowerment through bikes. To afford their 2026 goal of bringing 400 bikes to people who would otherwise not have access to them, they need to raise $200,000 by December 31st. Donations can be made online, in person or by mailing a check at the bike shop located at 1700 NE Alberta Street Portland Oregon 97211, or through employer matching. Stock donations are also welcome. About Community Cycling Center Founded in 1994, the Community Cycling Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to broadening access to bicycling and its benefits. Through education, programs, and free services, the organization works to make biking accessible and empowering for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Crews extinguish small fires in NE Portland Vehicle that was actively burning with downed line on the ground nearby after complete extinguishment. (Photo courtesy of Portland Fire & Rescue) At 5:06 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, Portland Fire Engine 14 was dispatched to an arcing electrical wire near the intersection of NE 22nd and NE Bryant in the Concordia Neighborhood. When the crew arrived, they found a downed wire that had ignited street-side vegetation, and they worked quickly to extinguish the small fires and put up safety tape to prevent residents from unknowingly approaching the potentially dangerous area. While addressing this location, the dispatch center alerted the crew of another downed line located approximately 8 blocks away near the intersection of NE 17 th  and NE Buffalo. The command officer requested Truck 8 to respond to the initial incident and relocated to the new emergency. Engine 14 found a large tree had fallen due to the saturated soils and had dropped a high-powered elevated power line along with a few houses service drop lines. The high-powered line was bouncing actively on the ground and creating explosive electrical charges where the wire contacted the ground as the power was flowing. This wire was adjacent to a vehicle that was ignited because of the fire activity at the end of the downed line. This active bouncing of the electrical wire prevented a safe approach by firefighters to address the vehicle fire that was not in any danger of spreading as the parking location did not have any exposure concerns. The command officer directed the crew to focus on establishing a safety perimeter with caution tape at this location and to extend a hose line as close as possible to address any possible exposure from the active vehicle fire. The command officer then contacted the Pacific Power (PPL) who serves this area and requested the power be dropped immediately in this grid as it was unknown if any other lines in the area were severed. This led to a large grid in this area be completely without power for the safety of responders and curious residents out and about investigating the scene for themselves. Downed power lines pose significant danger to anyone and unknowingly encountering an active downed powerline can have grave consequences. PPL service technicians arrived at both locations and are addressing all known damaged power lines. Service will be restored to the area when deemed safe. Portland Fire & Rescue wants to remind you to treat any downed elevated electrical line as high-risk danger and stay at least 50’ away and call professionals to address the situation. Any downed power line can be active with electricity and be hazardous.   PF&R would like to thank the dispatchers at BOEC for their assistance in this incident along with the professionals at PPL for their assistance in dropping the power in the grid for the safety of the responders along with the residents in the area. Treat all downed lines as dangerous – stay away and call 911.

Christmas Ships Parade Celebrates 71 years Christmas Ship Parade Panoramic (Photo Courtesy of Christmas Ships) Longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the U.S. returns to Columbia and Willamette Rivers this December The Christmas Ships Parade, a beloved Pacific Northwest tradition since 1954, announces its 71st season of bringing holiday cheer to communities along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Over 70 beautifully decorated and illuminated boats will parade 15 nights during December, offering spectacular free viewing opportunities for families and visitors.  "The Christmas Ships Parade provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season," said Kelly Marks, Christmas Ships Parade representative. "This one-of-a-kind event offers a unique experience and creates cherished memories while bringing joy and building community."  “Our Christmas Ship Skippers enjoy seeing and hearing the spectators on shore as much as the spectators enjoy seeing the brightly lit boats,” said Kat Pettersen, Christmas Ships President. “It fills our hearts to see the spirit of the Parade reflected in the faces of the spectators.” See the full parade schedule with viewing location suggestions at www.christmasships.org/parade-schedule .  The parade will visit multiple locations including North Portland Harbor, Camas, St. Helens, Columbia City, Woodland, the Multnomah Channel, Lake Oswego, and areas in between. Weeknight parades launch from Riverplace Marina on the Willamette and the M James Gleason Boat Ramp on the Columbia. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the annual toy drive benefiting children in need.

A campaign to Make Critical Upgrades to Increase Usability Terry and Cheryl Holden Momentum is soaring for the $3.35 million campaign to transform Molalla High School’s Burghardt Sports Complex. Philanthropists Terry (class of 1968) and Cheryl Holden have pledged a transformational $500,000 gift. The Holden’s are splitting their gift with $250,000 supporting the major capital improvements and $250,000 going to an ongoing maintenance fund, ensuring that the facility remains in use for many generations.   The Molalla River School District embarked on this bold campaign to make critical upgrades to Burghardt Sports Complex to increase usability; reduce ongoing maintenance of grass, which frequently becomes unplayable; and provide modern, safe and durable facilities. The installation of all-weather turf  on the main field and the resurfacing of the track will increase the usability for football, soccer, track and community events, such as graduation ceremonies.   Molalla River Schools Superintendent Tony Mann expressed his deep gratitude for the gift. “Molalla River Schools has benefited from the generosity of the Holdens in the past. This major gift sets us on a path to successfully provide improved, year-round facilities  that will benefit athletes of all ages and our community.”   The Holdens’ gift is part of a larger $3.35 million campaign to modernize the Burghardt Sports Complex and secure its future for generations of Molalla students and families. Thanks to early leadership commitments, including a $1 million lead gift from alumni Dale and Julie Burghardt, the campaign is well underway.   With the Holdens’ donation, the campaign now has just $900,000 left to raise to fully fund the project. If the remaining resources are secured by early next year, construction is slated to begin in summer 2026.   Molalla High School Athletic Director Mike Lord noted the impact on the school's mission. "Molalla athletics is about excellence in character, academics, and athletics. The Holdens joining this effort gives me hope that we will realize the ideal athletic program and the dividends from those investments well into the future, assuring that the facilities reflect excellence.”   The Holdens are long-term donors with a primary focus on education, health care, and veterans. They have previously invested in scholarships for high-achieving Molalla graduates, the Hobart Locker Room, and supported Career Technical Education programs at Molalla High School. In 2021, Holdens made a major donation to Clackamas Community College. Their donation provides needed funding for career technical education (CTE) scholarships, facilities and program development. Several Molalla students and graduates have benefited from the scholarship program and facilities at the Holden Industrial Technical Center.   The Holdens’ philanthropy extends beyond Molalla and surrounding areas. The Holdens have supported and made major contributions to OHSU for the benefit of the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital and the Casey Eye Clinic.  They also recently made a major contribution to the Cleveland Clinic and the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.   Terry Holden believes deeply in the value of active giving and supporting worthy public programs. “If and when you have the opportunity to help others, I would encourage you to pay it forward,” he said.   Cheryl Holden is often quoted as saying, “Giving is very rewarding.  What better way to use your money?  When you buy things, you don’t own anything, it owns you.  But when you give from your heart, it can’t be measured. It just feels good.”  Terry Holden added, “In the case of the upgrades to the football field and track at the Burghardt Sports Complex, it feels very good and is an extremely worthwhile project which will benefit the students and residents of Molalla for many years.  We are proud to support and follow the leadership of our good friends Dale and Julie Burghardt.  I invite my fellow alumni and business owners to join the Burghardt’s and us to quickly raise the remaining funds to realize the opportunity for students to develop their minds, character, and bodies.”

S tate Approval Recognizes Program & Strengthens Region’s Education Workforce 2025 BASTE Grads at Commencement Clark College is proud to announce that its  Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education (BASTE) program  has been  fully accredited  by the  Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) of Washington state.  The board approved the accreditation at its Nov. 13 meeting.   PESB is the state body responsible for reviewing and approving teacher preparation programs in Washington. Full accreditation affirms that Clark’s BASTE program meets all statewide standards for preparing high-quality educators. Because the program has been engaged in the accreditation process since before its first cohort began, graduates from all cohorts—past, current, and future—qualify for teacher certification.   "This achievement marks the culmination of a long journey and represents an incredible milestone for Clark College and our students ,” said Dr. Donald Ludwig, division chair of Behavioral Sciences and Clark’s Baccalaureate Leadership Council representative. “It stands as a testament to years of vision, perseverance, and collaboration.” The Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education (BASTE) is a two-year program that leads to teacher certification for preschool through eighth grade  and offers endorsement options in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, Special Education, and Early Childhood Special Education. The program provides a seamless pathway for students who have completed an associate of applied science degree and want to continue into a teacher education and certification program.   The program was intentionally designed to support  Grow Your Own Teacher  initiatives, which ensure that the teacher workforce reflects the demographics of the school district. Clark College began exploring the need for a BASTE program in 2019 by reviewing models from other institutions, analyzing regional teacher shortages, and consulting with school districts. The college then moved through a multi-stage approval process with its Board of Trustees, the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), and PESB.   During this process, Clark submitted an initial notification of intent and a pre-proposal, which describes how the program design and methods uniquely fill the needs of its community. The final stages of the process required a full program proposal that detailed specific program requirements. Each step goes through a detailed review before receiving final approval and full accreditation.   Washington is experiencing significant teacher shortages in several key endorsement areas. Four of Clark’s program endorsements—Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and Early Childhood Special Education—are shortage areas both statewide and within Clark County, according to PESB. The need for bilingual teachers is also growing, with 15.1% of Washington students identified as English Language Learners in 2024-25—an increase from the previous year. Two of Clark County's largest school districts reported ELL enrollment above 18%, mirroring statewide trends. Locally, special education and bilingual teachers are the most challenging positions to fill, but BASTE’s endorsement offerings address these shortages head-on.   “ Having worked in education for my entire career, I know that people choose to become educators not to make a lot of money, but because they are passionate about helping students, impacting lives, and making a difference in their community, ” said Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards. “It is gratifying to consider how deeply our BASTE-trained teachers will impact the lives of their students, their students’ families, and their communities over their teaching careers.”   By design, the program prepares graduates to meet the workforce needs of Clark County. Ongoing collaboration with local school districts allows students to complete their teacher residencies within local classrooms, supporting a smooth transition into teaching positions after graduation.   The BASTE program’s first cohort of five students graduated in June 2024. The second cohort tripled, with 17 graduates in June 2025. A new cohort begins every fall term, and  this year, Clark welcomed 24 students to the program —one shy of the maximum allowed per cohort. Those interested in learning more can visit  https://www.clark.edu/academics/programs/public-service-society-and-education/baste/

Legacy Executives Refuse To Bargain Ahead of Strike Frontline healthcare workers from ONA, OFNHP and AFT show their support for advanced practice providers (APPs) at Legacy Health who are preparing for a strike. Photo Courtesy of ONA   The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Legacy Health  for illegally refusing to meet with advanced practice providers (APPs) and come to a fair contract agreement to prevent a strike. While Legacy has told workers, “We have been in active labor contract bargaining with staff and continue to work in good faith to create a contract that is beneficial to all parties.”  In fact, Legacy executives and outside lawyers walked away from the bargaining table Nov. 20 and have said they would not continue contract discussions; a violation of federal law.    The 135 advanced practice providers (APPs) at Legacy Health have offered to meet with Legacy executives every day leading up to a strike in order to reach a fair agreement that protects patients, enables Legacy to recruit and retain skilled caregivers, ends inequitable practices like unpaid work and averts the need for a strike. If Legacy continues illegally refusing to meet with healthcare providers, a strike began Dec. 2.   “We’re fighting for a fair contract to give every patient what they deserve: shorter wait times, more available appointments and continuity with the caregivers you know and trust,” said Leigh Warsing, PA and ONA bargaining team member at Legacy. “We’re ready to reach a fair agreement that improves patient care and avoids a strike, but we need Legacy executives to come to the table.”   “We’ll bring the turkey, the sides and the pumpkin pie.” Warsing added. “Legacy executives just have to show up.”   The APPs at Legacy include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who care for patients in the Portland metro area and SW Washington. They are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) which represents more than 3,500 frontline healthcare providers at hospitals and clinics throughout the Legacy Health system.    While not unique, Legacy’s illegal refusal to meet with healthcare workers is unusual. Multiple Oregon hospitals and health systems, including Kaiser Permanente  and St. Charles Bend,  met with caregivers in the days leading up to a strike and reached fair agreements which prevented them. In recent years, ten California hospitals and health systems have also reached similar agreements in the 10 days prior to strikes. Multiple hospitals and health systems in New York , Pennsylvania , Michigan , Minnesota , and Illinois have also continued talks with frontline healthcare workers in the days before a strike and successfully reached agreements which prevented strikes from occurring.    Community members can visit www.OregonRN.org/RespectAPPs  to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the APPs, and stay informed about the impact of the potential strike.

S uspect seeks to block evidence in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case Suspect Luigi Mangione is taken into the Blair County Courthouse on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, in Hollidaysburg, Pa. (Benjamin B. Braun/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP) AP-Luigi Mangione watched stoically in court Monday as prosecutors played surveillance videos showing the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a New York City sidewalk last year and Mangione’s arrest five days later at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. The videos, including footage from the restaurant previously unseen by the press or the public, kicked off a hearing on Mangione’s fight to bar evidence from his state murder trial, including the gun prosecutors say matches the one used in the Dec. 4, 2024, attack. Mangione, 27, pressed a finger to his lips and a thumb to his chin as he watched footage of two police officers approaching him as he ate breakfast at the McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, about 230 miles (about 370 kilometers) west of Manhattan. At times as the videos played, he spoke to his lawyers and took notes. Among the evidence Mangione’s defense team wants excluded are the 9 mm handgun and a notebook in which prosecutors say he described his intent to “wack” a health insurance executive. Both were found in a backpack Mangione had with him when he was arrested. After getting state terrorism charges thrown out in September, Mangione’s lawyers are zeroing in on what they say was unconstitutional police conduct that threatens his right to a fair trial. They contend that the Manhattan district attorney’s office should be prevented from showing the gun, notebook and other items to jurors because police didn’t have a warrant to search the backpack. They also want to suppress some of Mangione’s statements to police, such as when he allegedly gave his name as Mark Rosario, because officers started asking questions before telling him he had a right to remain silent. Prosecutors say Mangione gave the same name when he checked into a Manhattan hostel days before the killing. Eliminating the gun and notebook would be critical wins for Mangione’s defense and a major setback for prosecutors, depriving them a possible murder weapon and evidence they say points to motive. Prosecutors have quoted extensively from Mangione’s writings in court filings, including his praise for the late Theodore Kaczynski, the convicted murderer known as the “Unabomber.” Among other things, prosecutors say, Mangione mused in his diary about rebelling against “the deadly, greed fueled health insurance cartel” and wrote that killing an industry executive “conveys a greedy bastard that had it coming.” An officer searching the backpack found with Mangione was heard in body camera footage saying she was checking to make sure there “wasn’t a bomb” in the bag. His lawyers argue that was an excuse “designed to cover up an illegal warrantless search of the backpack.” Court officials say the hearings could last more than a week, meaning they would extend through Thursday’s anniversary of the killing. Defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo told a judge in an unrelated matter last week that Manhattan prosecutors had indicated they could call more than two dozen witnesses. Mangione was allowed to wear normal clothing to the hearings instead of a jail uniform. He entered the courtroom Monday in a gray suit and a button-down shirt with a checkered or tattersall pattern. Court officers removed his handcuffs to allow him to take notes. The prosecution’s first witness, Sgt. Chris McLaughlin of the New York Police Department’s public affairs office, testified about efforts to disseminate surveillance images of the suspect to news outlets and on social media in the hours and days after the shooting. To illustrate the breadth of news coverage during the five-day search for the shooter, prosecutors played a surveillance video of the shooting that aired on Fox News Digital, footage from the network of police divers searching a pond in Central Park and clips from the network that included images of the suspected shooter that were distributed by police. Bernard Pyles, an installation supervisor who helped maintain the surveillance camera system at the McDonald’s, also testified Monday. He downloaded video clips for police after Mangione’s arrest. A few dozen Mangione supporters watched the hearing from the back of the courtroom. One wore a green T-shirt that said: “Without a warrant, it’s not a search, it’s a violation.” Another woman held a doll of the Luigi video game character and had a smaller figurine of him clipped to her purse. Mangione, the Ivy League-educated scion of a wealthy Maryland family, has pleaded not guilty to state and federal murder charges. The state charges carry the possibility of life in prison, while federal prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Neither trial has been scheduled yet.

Click Here to Read Full Paper