2nd Oregon News Minute from the AP

Date: 06/17/2013 09:29 AM

AP-OR–2nd NewsMinute/280
Here is the latest Oregon news from The Associated Press

 

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – A push by two the University of Oregon and Portland State University to break free from the statewide university system has hit a snag amid renewed opposition from some of the smaller, regional schools. The schools believe they can bring in big checks from donors and elevate their prestige if they can loosen ties to the State Board of Higher Education. But some of the regional schools are making a similar request over worries they’ll be left with higher bills and less flexibility if the big schools begin reporting to their own local governing boards.

COOS BAY, Ore. (AP) – Oregon State Police say troopers cited nine drivers traveling together on Highway 42 near Coos Bay toward the coast after other motorists complained that they were driving carelessly. Troopers say the drivers in “souped-up” vehicles were making unsafe passes, racing, and running cars off the road while trying to keep up with one another on Saturday.

COOS BAY, Ore. (AP) – Authorities say two people are dead, another is believed dead and a 65-year-old man is in custody following arson fires in two Coos Bay homes. Police say they arrested Edward Nelson on suspicion of aggravated murder and first-degree arson after his home and a neighbor’s house went up in flames Saturday.

BREMERTON, Wash. (AP) – For the first time, a woman is taking over as commander of Navy Region Northwest. The Kitsap Sun reports that Rear Adm. Bette Bolivar will oversee bases in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska. She takes over for Rear Adm. Mark Rich, who is heading to the nation’s capital to be commandant of Naval District Washington.

 

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.