Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oregon's transportation agency faces severe budget cuts after lawmakers rejected a vital $11.6 billion infrastructure bill. Governor Tina Kotek confirmed that cuts to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are inevitable, affecting essential services like road maintenance and wildfire response.
Corgi enthusiasts celebrated the annual Corgi Beach Takeover on Saturday, drawing over a thousand corgis to Seaside, Oregon. The event, organized by the Oregon Humane Society, serves as a crucial fundraiser for its initiatives.
A rollover crash in Forest Grove killed 62-year-old Brian Blount on Saturday evening. Authorities closed Southwest Fern Hill Road for several hours while investigating the incident and urged witnesses to come forward.
Gas prices in Oregon surged to an average of $4.05 per gallon, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Iran conflict. A ceasefire has resulted in minor price drops, but concerns over potential disruptions in oil supplies persist. AAA projects record travel for the upcoming Independence Day holiday, with 72.2 million Americans expected to travel.
Vancouver police arrested Maurice Holmes, a suspected child predator, on multiple charges related to child exploitation. During the arrest, officers discovered ten dead cats and several more living in hazardous conditions, leading to additional animal cruelty charges. The Humane Society is responding to a cat emergency and waiving adoption fees to help find homes for the rescued animals.
Firefighters contained a 10-15 acre fire near Glide, Oregon, with no structures threatened. Crews from multiple agencies worked overnight to establish control lines and continue mop-up efforts. The fire's cause remains under investigation.
A Tillamook County Grand Jury indicted John Dennie Johnson, 64, on June 18, 2025, on twelve felony charges related to sexual abuse of juveniles. Johnson, arrested on June 20, faces severe allegations, including multiple counts of sexual abuse and rape, and is currently held on $600,000 bail. Investigators emphasize the importance of protecting the victims' privacy throughout the legal process.
Thirty-two maltipoo dogs were rescued from unsanitary conditions in Bonney Lake, Washington, after their owner relinquished them to animal control. The dogs were taken to the Humane Society of Tacoma & Pierce County, where they are now in foster homes and will soon be available for adoption. This intake adds to the shelter's existing population of 80 dogs and 468 cats during its busiest season.
Sofia Nava Ulacio, a 21-year-old Portland Community College graduate, overcame significant hardships in Venezuela to pursue her dreams in music. With a 4.0 GPA and recognition from her professors, she has inspired others through initiatives like the Rock Creek Choir Club. Nava Ulacio will continue her education at Lewis and Clark College on a full-ride scholarship.
Multnomah County allows addiction and behavioral health specialists to refer patients to its sobering services, expanding access beyond law enforcement. The county aims to increase utilization of the 13 beds at its Southeast Portland center, which have seen only 26 users since opening in April. County officials partnered with five organizations to facilitate referrals for individuals unable to care for themselves due to substance impairment.