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The Local Stories We Are Following For You
for October 5, 2025

Trump Sends 300 California Guard to Portland

Hours after a federal judge in Oregon temporarily blocked the deployment of the Oregon National Guard to Portland, President Trump moved to deploy 300 federalized members of the California National Guard to the city instead, triggering an immediate and fierce confrontation with California's governor.

The move, announced by California Governor Gavin Newsom on Sunday, October 5, 2025, is seen by state officials as a direct effort to circumvent the temporary restraining order issued just hours earlier. That order had blocked the federalization and deployment of the Oregon National Guard after the judge found the President's claims of an insurrection were "untethered to the facts."

The California troops were reportedly personnel who had been federalized months ago for a different purpose and had never been returned to state control.Governor Newsom immediately condemned the deployment as a "breathtaking abuse of the law and power" and vowed to sue the Trump administration in federal court.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek also opposed the action, stating that "There is no need for military intervention in Oregon." This cross-state deployment represents a significant escalation in the constitutional conflict between the administration and Democratic-led states over the use of military forces for domestic law enforcement.

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2025 Had Less Acreage Burn in Wildfires

A new report on Oregon Wildfires shows a reduction in the overall number of acres burned in Oregon in 2025, despite an increase in the number of individual fire starts compared to 2024.

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire officials cited a massive difference in year-over-year impact: By the same point in the fire season, Oregon state lands had over 250,000 acres burned in 2024, which contrasts sharply with only 12,000 acres burned in 2025. This dramatic decrease in burned acreage is linked to the success of firefighters in containing new ignitions quickly.

The focus on an effective initial attack system—the rapid response by ground and air resources to new fire starts—is a central strategy for ODF, whose priority is consistently stated as keeping fires small. For example, during one period in 2025, firefighters were able to respond to 39 new wildfire starts, with the majority of those fires kept to approximately one-tenth of an acre in size, confirming the success of the quick-response tactics. This suggests that while weather and environmental conditions continued to generate new fires, the improved or more focused suppression strategy prevented them from escalating into the large, costly megafires that characterized the 2024 season, where the total state acreage burned surpassed 1.9 million.

The Local Stories We Are Following For You
for October 5, 2025

Trump Sends 300 California Guard to Portland

Hours after a federal judge in Oregon temporarily blocked the deployment of the Oregon National Guard to Portland, President Trump moved to deploy 300 federalized members of the California National Guard to the city instead, triggering an immediate and fierce confrontation with California's governor.

The move, announced by California Governor Gavin Newsom on Sunday, October 5, 2025, is seen by state officials as a direct effort to circumvent the temporary restraining order issued just hours earlier. That order had blocked the federalization and deployment of the Oregon National Guard after the judge found the President's claims of an insurrection were "untethered to the facts."

The California troops were reportedly personnel who had been federalized months ago for a different purpose and had never been returned to state control.Governor Newsom immediately condemned the deployment as a "breathtaking abuse of the law and power" and vowed to sue the Trump administration in federal court.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek also opposed the action, stating that "There is no need for military intervention in Oregon." This cross-state deployment represents a significant escalation in the constitutional conflict between the administration and Democratic-led states over the use of military forces for domestic law enforcement.

I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

2025 Had Less Acreage Burn in Wildfires

A new report on Oregon Wildfires shows a reduction in the overall number of acres burned in Oregon in 2025, despite an increase in the number of individual fire starts compared to 2024.

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire officials cited a massive difference in year-over-year impact: By the same point in the fire season, Oregon state lands had over 250,000 acres burned in 2024, which contrasts sharply with only 12,000 acres burned in 2025. This dramatic decrease in burned acreage is linked to the success of firefighters in containing new ignitions quickly.

The focus on an effective initial attack system—the rapid response by ground and air resources to new fire starts—is a central strategy for ODF, whose priority is consistently stated as keeping fires small. For example, during one period in 2025, firefighters were able to respond to 39 new wildfire starts, with the majority of those fires kept to approximately one-tenth of an acre in size, confirming the success of the quick-response tactics. This suggests that while weather and environmental conditions continued to generate new fires, the improved or more focused suppression strategy prevented them from escalating into the large, costly megafires that characterized the 2024 season, where the total state acreage burned surpassed 1.9 million.

Judge Temporarily Blocks Deployment of
National Guard to Portland

A federal judge in Oregon, U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut, temporarily blocked the Trump administration's plan to deploy the National Guard in Portland. The judge issued a temporary restraining order on a Saturday, siding with a lawsuit brought by the state and the city.

The Defense Department had announced its intent to place 200 members of Oregon’s National Guard under federal control for 60 days. The stated purpose of the deployment was to protect federal property at locations where protests were occurring or likely to occur, following President Trump’s description of Portland as "war-ravaged."

However, Oregon officials publicly contested this characterization, calling it "ludicrous." They noted that the nightly protests at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building, the intended area of focus, had been relatively small in recent weeks, typically drawing only about a couple dozen people before the federal deployment was announced.

VOCA Funds Restored

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has reversed its decision to withhold Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funds from Oregon and 20 other states, as well as the District of Columbia, that do not assist federal immigration enforcement. This means millions in federal funding will now be released to Oregon's victim services organizations, which had been at risk of severe cuts due to the state's 1987 sanctuary law.

Oregon's Attorney General Dan Rayfield (and previously Ellen Rosenblum in a separate but related case regarding Byrne grants) led legal challenges against the Trump administration's imposed conditions, which mandated cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to receive the funds.

While the immediate threat to VOCA funds related to immigration enforcement cooperation has been lifted, Attorney General Rayfield has joined a new lawsuit challenging a separate DOJ restriction preventing the use of VOCA funds for legal services for undocumented immigrants.

Trump Eyes Cuts to Portland Federal Aid

As of early October 2025, the Trump administration is considering cutting federal aid to Portland, Oregon, following ongoing anti-ICE and anti-fascist protests and the recent arrest of conservative influencer Nick Sortor. In response, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek activated a multi-agency coordination group and condemned the threats to withhold federal funding as an "insult to Oregonians" and a "dereliction of duty."

The situation escalated after Sortor's October 2nd arrest by Portland police during a protest outside the ICE facility. He claimed "viewpoint discrimination," leading the Department of Justice (DOJ) to launch an investigation into the Portland Police Bureau's handling of the incident. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump directed a review of federal aid, warning, "We will not fund states that allow anarchy" while also promising more federal resources.

Oregon officials have strongly pushed back. Governor Kotek criticized the funding threats as alarming to democracy and an insult to the state. State legislators Travis Nelson and Frederick described the actions as politically motivated, with Senator Frederick calling them "classic fascism" and "intimidation." Portland police maintain arrests are based on behavior, not politics, and noted the DOJ inquiry came amid their lawsuit against the National Guard deployment.

This threat to cut funding aligns with a broader pattern of the Trump administration using this tactic against politically opposed entities, as seen with recent actions against Chicago. These threats also coincide with a government shutdown battle in Washington D.C., and past attempts to withhold funds from "sanctuary cities" have faced mixed legal outcomes.

OREGON Rolls Out New Snap Rules

The state of Oregon's Department of Human Services (ODHS) has begun the phased implementation of federally mandated changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as required by the massive Republican-led budget law that President Donald Trump signed in July. The changes, which are rolling out over the course of the next year, are expected to impact more than 313,000 Oregonians by narrowing eligibility and reducing benefits.

A major element of the change is the expansion of work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), who are now subject to a three-month limit on benefits in a three-year period unless they meet work or training requirements of at least 80 hours per month. The new federal law expanded the age range for this requirement from 18–54 to 18–64 years old, and removed exemptions for individuals experiencing homelessness, veterans, and former foster youth. For parents, the exemption for caring for a child now only applies if the child is under age 14, down from the previous age of 18. This change in work requirements began on October 1, 2025 in six Oregon counties—Benton, Clackamas, Hood River, Multnomah, Washington, and Yamhill—and will expand to all remaining counties statewide in January 2026.

The federal law also limits utility bill assistance by changing how utility expenses are calculated to determine a household’s SNAP benefit amount. This provision primarily affects households that previously qualified for a higher utility allowance deduction. The state estimates that roughly 29,000 households will lose this allowance, resulting in an average reduction of $58 per month in their SNAP benefits. These benefit reductions are scheduled to take effect starting November 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the law ends access to SNAP for certain lawfully present immigrants who were previously eligible. ODHS anticipates that at least 3,000 individuals, including refugees, asylum seekers, and certain trafficking survivors, will lose their eligibility for food assistance. Notices were sent to the first group of affected individuals around October 15, 2025, with their SNAP cases scheduled to close on October 31, 2025, while others will see changes as their cases are reviewed throughout the next year.

The new rules apply immediately to people who apply or reapply for SNAP after October 1, 2025, while people already receiving benefits before July 4, 2025, will see changes phased in over time.

Feds Investigate Portland PD for Arrest of Conservative Influencer

The arrest of conservative influencer Nicholas Sortor by Portland Police on October 2, 2025, during a protest at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland has sparked a federal investigation, announced by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Sortor was arrested along with two others on a misdemeanor charge of second-degree disorderly conduct, with police reports indicating multiple fights breaking out among protesters.

However, the accounts of the incident differ sharply. Sortor claimed on Fox News that he was "ambushed" by "antifa" protesters and was acting in self-defense, having disengaged from the conflict and sought out police for safety before his unexpected arrest. In contrast, the Portland Police Bureau stated that arrests were made based on observed behavior and probable cause, irrespective of political affiliation, as part of their response to the escalating altercations.

Attorney General Pam Bondi personally informed Sortor of the Department of Justice's full investigation into the Portland Police Bureau's actions, a move later confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Leavitt characterized the incident as part of a "troubling trend in Portland" and reiterated President Trump's commitment to restoring order in the city. The Portland Police Bureau, however, stated they have not received any official notification of a federal investigation. Sortor and one other individual were released without bail the morning after the protest, while a third person remains in custody.

A vehicle wreck that occurred on October 3, 2025, has disabled the traffic signals at the intersection of Campus Drive and Dahlia Street. Repairs for the damage are expected to take several weeks. In the interim, temporary stop signs have been installed, and drivers are legally required to treat the intersection as an all-way stop. Drivers should exercise caution and follow the right-of-way rules for an all-way stop when proceeding through the intersection.

Vehicle Causes Traffic Woes on Campus Drive

Dept of Energy Cancels $400 Million in Oregon Energy Funding

The U.S. Department of Energy has officially canceled over $400 million in energy grants intended for Oregon, a decision that is expected to significantly impede or entirely halt numerous critical projects across the state. This move will impact major transmission upgrades, energy-efficiency initiatives, essential workforce development programs, and the growth of clean technology manufacturing.

The termination of these grants, specifically 19 grants in Oregon amounting to approximately $405 million, was confirmed by a list published on Thursday by Appropriations Committee Democrats—a group of legislators who are members of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations. This cancellation represents a considerable blow to Oregon's energy sector and its broader economic and environmental goals.

Oregon National Guard's adjutant general writes to troops ahead of Portland mobilization: 'I know this isn't easy'

In a significant development for Oregon's military forces, Brigadier General Alan R. Gronewald, the state's adjutant general and highest state-level military official, issued a memo to members of the Oregon National Guard on Monday. The memo provided both guidance and commiseration to soldiers and airmen in anticipation of President Donald Trump's directive to federalize and mobilize troops into Portland.

General Gronewald's memo confirmed that the Department of Defense, acting through U.S. Northern Command, had formally requested the Oregon National Guard's support. He clarified the mission's objective: "The mission is straightforward: protect federal facilities and the federal employees working in them."

This mobilization falls under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, which allows the president to federalize state guard troops under specific circumstances. These circumstances are currently a point of contention and are at issue in a lawsuit filed by the Oregon Attorney General's office. If not blocked by a federal judge, the orders mandate the Oregon Military Department to deploy 200 guardsmen for operations in Portland. Officials have estimated that this National Guard deployment to Portland will cost approximately $3.8 million.

Gronewald underscored a critical aspect of Title 10 mobilization: once federalized, the soldiers will report directly to U.S. Northern Command. This means they will no longer be under the command of General Gronewald or Governor Tina Kotek, who serves as Oregon's commander-in-chief.

Acknowledging the potential for internal dissent, Gronewald addressed the troops directly: "I know some of you may have strong feelings about this mission. That's okay. You are citizens first, but you're also service members who took an oath to support and defend the Constitution and follow the orders of the President and the Governor." He concluded with a firm reminder of their duty: "That oath doesn't come with an asterisk that says, 'Only when I agree with the mission.' We don't get to pick and choose. We execute lawful orders with professionalism and honor, period. That's what sets us apart. That's what makes us the National Guard."

Read the letter here

UPDATE: Oregon Goes to Court Over National Guard Troops

A judge in Oregon is preparing to rule on a lawsuit filed by the state, challenging the deployment of federalized National Guard troops to Portland, a measure requested by the Trump administration amidst ongoing protests. The legal proceedings have highlighted significant inconsistencies in sworn statements from federal officials and local police regarding the command and control of these troops and the overall management of demonstrations near the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland. The outcome of this ruling could have substantial implications for the balance of authority between state and federal forces in managing civil unrest.

The case was randomly reassigned to U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut, a Trump appointee and former U.S. Attorney for Oregon.

Oregon and Portland's legal challenge hinges on the argument that the deployment is unlawful and an abuse of power, violating the Posse Comitatus Act and the Tenth Amendment. They argue that the President lacks the authority to federalize the Guard because the protests are small, manageable, and do not constitute an "insurrection" or an emergency that would justify military intervention. Local law enforcement officials have submitted court declarations supporting this view, asserting they have the capacity to maintain public safety without federalized troops.

The US Department of Justice has formally responded to Oregon's request for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), which seeks to immediately block the deployment. The DOJ is defending the administration's actions as a lawful effort to protect federal assets and personnel at the ICE facility, portraying the situation as one of "violent riots" and "attacks by protesters," a narrative strongly disputed by state and local officials.

Tobias Read Worries About Oregon Heath Care

Oregon is experiencing the repercussions of the ongoing federal government shutdown. State Treasurer Tobias Read has voiced his concerns, urging federal leaders to swiftly resolve the impasse and particularly stressing the importance of protecting health care funding.

The shutdown's impact is multifaceted, affecting various sectors and individuals within Oregon. Federal employees in the state are either furloughed or working without pay, leading to significant financial strain for many families. This directly affects local economies as consumer spending decreases. Essential federal services, from national parks to certain regulatory functions, are also disrupted.

Treasurer Read's call to action highlights a critical concern: the potential jeopardy of health care funding. Many federal programs contribute to Oregon's health care system, including Medicaid, CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program), and various public health initiatives. A prolonged shutdown could lead to delays in reimbursements, uncertainty for providers, and ultimately, a potential disruption of services for vulnerable populations who rely on these programs. This could exacerbate existing health care challenges and create new ones for the state.

The State Treasurer's message underscores the need for federal leaders to prioritize the well-being of American citizens and the stability of state-level operations by reaching a bipartisan agreement to reopen the government and ensure continued funding for vital services like health care.

Fake $20 Bill Passed in Downtown Klamath Falls

Thai Orchid Cafe gave a heads up this morning to area businesses that fake $20 dollar bills are being passed around Klamath Falls. The $20 bills have the words "movie prop only" and "copy" on the face, and one was passed as payment last night at Thai Orchid. They also have questionable paper quality and don't have the watermarks or other security features.

Thai Orchid shared the news on Instagram last evening and said that they didn’t catch it until the end of the night, so they shared a photo of the phony bill to help others avoid the same. And they said "Let’s look out for each other and spread the word to keep our community safe."

Chiloquin Third-Graders Trade Pencils for Pumpkins in Annual Garden Harvest

For Chiloquin Elementary School third-graders, Wednesday's classroom was the dirt. Instead of books and desks, their lesson involved digging, pulling, and harvesting a bounty of cucumbers, potatoes, carrots, corn, and pumpkins straight from the soil.

The hands-on learning took place at the garden of Klamath County School Board member John Rademacher and his wife, Diane Haseman. For over a decade, the couple has hosted this annual fall tradition, transforming their plot into an outdoor classroom brimming with excitement and the simple joy of harvest.

"Pulling potatoes is like unearthing treasures," Rademacher, a retired educator and former school principal, shared with the students as he demonstrated how to find the hidden crops.

The lesson immediately sprang to life. "Look, look at this one!" students yelled, holding up dirt-caked carrots and potatoes. Others hunted for round cucumbers or tugged at ripe ears of corn.

For many, this was a brand-new experience. “Some of my students have never been to a farm before,” said third-grade teacher Jessica Lockrem-Plascencia. “They’re super excited. They are talking about cooking dinner and making salad and soup with their vegetables.”

Each child collected their haul in a labeled bag, which soon overflowed with fresh produce, plus a bonus handful of cherry tomatoes. The day concluded in true fall fashion: with a hay ride, cocoa, and cider.

Rademacher, who has served on the KCSD board since 2007, cherishes the tradition as a way to remain connected to students and share the joys of rural living.

“It’s a simple thing, but it sticks with them,” he said. “I love watching their faces light up when they pull that first potato or ear of corn. That’s something they’ll always remember.”

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ODOT Faces Staffing Shortages this Winter

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is facing challenges in staffing up for the winter season and Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) after a prolonged funding delay in the Legislature. ODOT typically begins hiring seasonal winter maintenance positions in July, but the process was hindered as the agency waited for a legislative funding plan to be finalized.

The uncertainty led to a significant number of resignations—206 total employees left between late June and late September—and the agency had identified nearly 500 planned layoffs and eliminated hundreds of vacant positions before a funding bill was passed. Although the Legislature finally passed a $4.3 billion transportation funding package in late September 2025, which canceled the layoffs, ODOT is now rushing to fill hundreds of vacant positions.

This delay means the department is behind on training new staff to operate heavy equipment like snowplows, leading to concerns that winter maintenance workers "may not be there when the first snowflakes hit." ODOT is prioritizing hiring for its DMV offices, which saw a 25% increase in office closures due to insufficient staffing. Overall, the department has over 750 positions to fill but expects to hire slowly until it has the revenue confirmed to cover those positions over the next two-year budget cycle. The situation points to a likely reduction in the speed and frequency of snow and ice removal on Oregon roads this winter, in addition to continued impacts on DMV customer service.

Klamath PD Victim of Swatting

In early August 2025, Klamath Falls experienced a "swatting" hoax when law enforcement, including the Klamath Falls Police Department (KFPD) SWAT team and other agencies, surrounded a neighborhood in the downtown area. The large-scale response was triggered by false reports of a violent crime, specifically a shooting incident on the 300 block of North Sixth Street.

The KFPD received two distinct, untraceable calls: the first caller alleged that a man had shot and killed his wife and was trying to force open a bathroom door where his son was hiding, and a second caller reported hearing five or six gunshots in the vicinity. Police confirmed that the reports were an elaborate hoax—an act of swatting intended to provoke a massive and potentially dangerous police deployment.

This incident was part of a broader trend of swatting hoaxes that have been reported across Oregon, frequently targeting schools and private residences and wasting significant law enforcement resources. Authorities are investigating the false reports, which can lead to serious criminal charges for the perpetrators.

The Moore Park Wildfire Risk Reduction Project is actively being carried out in Klamath Falls. This initiative, which focuses on 121 acres within Moore Park, is funded through a grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and is a collaborative effort between Klamath County Fire District 1 (KCFD1), Klamath Falls Parks & Recreation (KFP&R), and other community partners.

The primary objective is to mitigate the impact of wildfires and provide fire risk prevention to the park and neighboring areas, such as the Lynnwood Sub-division and Lakeshore Drive. The work involves a variety of treatments, including invasive species removal, ladder fuel reduction, and selective pruning to decrease overall fire risk.

This vegetation management is being administered by Lost River Fire Management. Additionally, KCFD1 and KFP&R are engaging with residents adjacent to Moore Park to provide guidance on reducing fire risk on their own property through the Community Risk Reduction Program. The project began as early as October 2, 2025, and is expected to continue while weather conditions permit.

Oregon gov says Trump troop deployment could cost taxpayers up to $10M

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has stated that the upcoming federal troop deployment in Portland could cost taxpayers as much as $10 million.

In a Wednesday news release, Kotek explained that the Oregon Military Department calculated this figure based on the costs for salaries for 200 soldiers, along with food, lodging, equipment, and other sundries for the planned 60-day deployment. This new $10 million estimate is a significant increase from the initial $3.8 million estimate given to state lawmakers on Tuesday, which was based on salaries alone.

Meanwhile, Governor Kotek and Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield have filed a lawsuit asking a judge to declare the deployment illegal and issue an emergency restraining order to block it. A hearing for the case is set for Friday.

Kotek strongly criticized the expense, saying, "Wasting an estimated $10 million dollars on made up problems is an insult to Americans who are struggling... Not only is this an abuse of power, it is a dereliction of the president’s duty to solve real problems.”

Despite a claim from the President that the guard members were "in place" on Wednesday, there was no visible military presence on site. While local police expect the guard to be mainly restricted to "site security," Kotek noted that the U.S. Department of Defense has not yet confirmed the full scope of their plans.

Oregon Republicans Work to Undo ODOT Tax Hike

Republican lawmakers and activists in Oregon are actively preparing a ballot referendum to overturn the newly enacted transportation funding package, House Bill 3991. The bill, passed largely along party lines, increases various taxes and fees, which opponents argue will hurt Oregon taxpayers. Key provisions of the funding package include a 6-cent per gallon increase in the state gas tax, significant hikes to vehicle title and registration fees (including a $42 increase in registration and a $139 increase in titling fees), a temporary doubling of the payroll tax to fund public transit, and new fees and a mandatory per-mile program for electric and hybrid vehicles.

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Starr stated that the caucus would work to collect the roughly 78,000 required signatures to place the tax increases before voters in the November 2026 election. Governor Tina Kotek has urged Oregonians to oppose the referral, arguing that overturning the measure would jeopardize the state's ability to fund essential road maintenance and prevent hundreds of layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

Oregon Seniors and Rural Residents to Fair Worst with SNAP Cuts

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has announced that federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), required under the new federal House Resolution 1 (H.R. 1) law, will lead to benefit reductions and eligibility losses for thousands of Oregonians, with the first wave of changes taking effect in November 2025. These federal changes will particularly affect older adults and those in rural communities.

Approximately 29,000 households are projected to see their monthly SNAP benefits reduced by an average of $58 due to the loss of a key utility allowance; this cut mostly affects households that do not have a member over the age of 60 or a disabled individual. The benefit reductions will start on November 1, 2025, for recipients who recently applied or recertified.

Furthermore, new federal rules expand the work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), raising the age limit and removing the ability for the state to waive the rule in many rural areas, which previously protected those in communities with limited job prospects. Finally, the law removes SNAP eligibility for certain lawfully present immigrants, including refugees and asylees, which is expected to cut off benefits for at least 3,000 individuals in the state. ODHS will begin mailing notices to affected households around October 15, 2025, to prepare them for the upcoming changes.

Portland Street Quiet Zone is In Effect

The City of Klamath Falls has successfully completed the Portland Street Quiet Zone, effective August 13, 2025. This project eliminates the requirement for trains to sound their horns at the Portland Street crossing, except for safety purposes, bringing a significant new level of peace and quiet to neighboring residents.

The quiet zone represents over eight years of effort and investment, with the City dedicating $275,000 from its regular budget and an additional $325,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Although the final costs came in under the total allocated amount, this funding demonstrates the City's commitment to improving residents' quality of life.

The success of the project was dependent on the leadership of HDR Engineering and the strong collaboration with several key partners, including Union Pacific Railroad, BNSF, Amtrak, the Federal Rail Administration, and ODOT Rail, all of whom the City sincerely thanks for their persistence and hard work. The Portland Street Quiet Zone is now highlighted as a lasting example of how community priorities, investment, and partnership can lead to meaningful improvements for citizens.

Klamath Falls Woman Arrested in Dunsmuir with Enough Fentanyl for 19,450 Lethal Doses

A routine check by a Siskiyou County Sheriff's Deputy in Dunsmuir just after midnight on Sunday led to a major drug seizure.

The deputy approached a vehicle near Manfredi's Market and found a 32-year-old woman, identified as Kaeleen Koger of Klamath Falls, passed out in the driver's seat. Drug paraphernalia was visible in the vehicle. After repeated attempts, the deputy was able to wake Koger.

A subsequent probable cause search of the vehicle uncovered an array of drug paraphernalia, 8 oxycodone pills, and two bags containing 38.9 grams of fentanyl. Authorities noted that the quantity of fentanyl seized was enough to deliver approximately 19,450 lethal doses.

Koger was arrested and booked into the Siskiyou County jail on charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of unlawful paraphernalia. The Sheriff's Office commended the deputy for their diligence in removing such a dangerous quantity of narcotics from the community.

KLAMATH FALLS, OR – Spencer Creek, a vital tributary of the Klamath River, has been closed to fishing a month earlier than its usual season end, in an effort to protect spawning fall salmon populations. The decision was made to safeguard the delicate reproductive cycle of these ecologically important fish.

The early closure aims to minimize disturbances to salmon as they migrate upstream to lay their eggs, ensuring a higher success rate for the upcoming generation. Conservation efforts like this are crucial for maintaining healthy fish stocks and the overall biodiversity of the Klamath River ecosystem.

Spencer Creek Closed Early to Protect Spawning Fall Salmon

Oregon Residents Face Potential Harm from Looming Federal Government Shutdown

Oregonians across the state could face significant disruption and hardship if the federal government enters a shutdown, a possibility that intensified after a recent legislative deadline passed without a budget deal.

A shutdown could impact a wide range of essential services and programs that many Oregon residents rely on. Thousands of federal workers in Oregon, including those at military bases, national forests, and various agencies, could be furloughed or forced to work without pay, creating immediate financial stress for families and rippling through local economies.

While core Social Security and veteran benefit payments are often shielded initially, delays or reduced staffing could affect new applications, appeals, or specialized services for seniors and veterans. Food assistance programs like SNAP could see delays in funding or administrative slowdowns, impacting vulnerable families.

Oregon's beloved national parks and forests might face closures or reduced services, affecting tourism, recreation, and businesses dependent on these natural attractions. Small businesses relying on federal contracts or loans from agencies like the Small Business Administration could experience disruptions, and universities and research institutions that receive federal grants could see projects halted and funding delayed. Even travel and border security, while critical operations continue, could see impacts on services like passport processing or TSA operations at airports due to staffing reductions.

Oregon state agencies are likely preparing for potential contingencies, but many federally funded or administered programs would be beyond their direct control. The uncertainty surrounding a potential shutdown creates anxiety for many families and businesses in the state, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of federal political impasses.

Chiloquin's Resilience Hub Project Halted After Federal Grant Cancellation, But Vision for Downtown Continues

CHILOQUIN, OR – An ambitious project to transform the historic Markwardt Brother’s Garage site into a Community Resilience Hub and Municipal Center in Chiloquin has been halted due to the cancellation of federal funding. Despite this setback, city officials affirm their commitment to revitalizing downtown and exploring new avenues to serve the community.

For the past year, the City of Chiloquin had been actively working on the redevelopment, envisioned as a central space for municipal services, community programs, and emergency preparedness. The project, initially supported by an EPA Community Change Grant, aimed to repurpose a long-vacant property into a vital asset for residents. The planned Resilience Hub would have offered a safe, accessible location during emergencies like wildfires, alongside year-round benefits such as meeting rooms, program spaces, and improved access to city services. This initiative was a cornerstone of Chiloquin's broader strategy for downtown revitalization and future readiness.

However, the current federal administration's decision to cancel all EPA Community Change Grants, followed by the loss of national court cases including a class action lawsuit challenging the cancellation, rendered the project unfeasible. At a recent September City Council meeting, the council officially voted to close out the grant.

While acknowledging the disappointment, the City highlighted significant progress made during the grant's active period. Crucially, environmental cleanup and brownfield remediation at the Markwardt site were successfully completed using grant funds. This work alone removed blight and prepared the property for future redevelopment, marking a substantial step forward in making downtown safer and more attractive for investment.

The City Council and staff emphasize that the end of the EPA grant does not signify the end of their vision for Chiloquin. They remain dedicated to identifying new opportunities to enhance the city’s resilience and create effective community spaces. Efforts are underway to explore other funding sources and partnerships, with the City committed to utilizing the remediated Markwardt property for projects that will benefit residents, businesses, and future generations.

UPDATE: Judge Jails Defendant in $2M Will Fraud Case for Violating Release Terms
By: Phil W. Hudson

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — A judge ordered a woman facing 28 felonies in an alleged $2 million will fraud case back to jail today for violating the terms of her release.

Klamath County Circuit Court Judge Stephen Hedlund set bail at $30,000 for Kristine Pereira after District Attorney David Schutt filed a motion alleging she traveled out of state without court permission.

Pereira faces charges across five separate criminal cases involving seven alleged victims. The primary case involves the alleged forgery of a will that disinherited Kristy Gerlett from her mother Cathy Gerlett's estate.

According to court records, Pereira was previously booked and released five times over 10 months without paying bail before today’s detention.

The alleged fraudulent will, filed in Klamath County probate court in April 2023, gave 80 percent of Cathy Gerlett's estate to Kristine Pereira while completely excluding Kristy Gerlett, who was designated to receive 25 percent under a legitimate 2018 will.

Schutt filed felony charges in October 2024 against Pereira and her mother, Renee Pereira, for attempted aggravated theft, forgery, identity theft and computer crimes. Both pleaded not guilty.

Court records show Kristine Pereira faces 28 felonies and four misdemeanors across five cases spanning 2024 and 2025. Case 24CR56156 involves the will fraud charges, while 24CR62173 relates to alleged Walmart theft. A third case, 25CR13700, involves forgery charges.

Pre-trial proceedings for both defendants were scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. Kristine Pereira has a trial readiness hearing scheduled for Oct. 21 before Judge Alycia Edgeworth Kersey.

"My family continues to thank Mr. Schutt for all his efforts," Kristy Gerlett said in a statement Tuesday night.

17 Mayors Across Oregon Stand for Portland

Mayors from the Portland metro area have sharply criticized President Donald Trump's threat to deploy National Guard troops to the city, calling it an unnecessary act of aggression that could endanger residents. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, along with mayors of nearby cities, appeared at a news conference Monday to echo Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek's declaration that the state's largest city does not need assistance from the National Guard. This stands in contrast to Trump’s claims that the city has been "ravaged" and local immigration facilities are "under siege."

Seventeen mayors from across the state have formed a coalition committing to coordinate efforts to protect civil rights and public safety should the National Guard be deployed, denouncing the use of military forces for immigration enforcement. Their joint statement asserted that "Enforcement of civil immigration laws by militarized forces has no legitimate role in our community, no support from local elected leaders, and little public support." Several mayors argued that Trump’s depiction of Portland, rooted in a "longstanding fixation" dating back to the volatile 2020 protests following the killing of George Floyd, did not align with current reality.

Mayor Lacey Beaty of Beaverton, Oregon, directly challenged the President: "We stand here today to tell the president he’s listening to the wrong people... The president cannot watch footage from over a half a decade ago and believe this is the Portland that we’re standing in today."

In an NBC News interview on Sunday, Trump himself seemed to question his own justification for the deployment after a Saturday phone call with Governor Kotek. Kotek reported that Trump told her he'd seen videos of fires in the city that may have been from the 2020 protests. Trump commented, "I spoke to the governor, she was very nice... But I said, ‘Well wait a minute, am I watching things on television that are different from what’s happening? My people tell me different.’ They are literally attacking and there are fires all over the place...it looks like terrible."

Wilson and Kotek are now suing to block the deployment of what Trump administration officials have said would be 200 Guard soldiers. U.S. District Judge Michael Simon set a hearing for Friday on the state and city’s request for a temporary restraining order. A Justice Department attorney, Christopher Edelman, argued Monday that Oregon’s urgency was "largely manufactured," claiming the deployment was "very limited in nature," consisting of only 3 percent of the state’s total Guard contingent. Edelman further called the Oregon officials' arguments that state services would be impaired "specious."

Congressman Bentz Discusses Legislative Priorities, Town Hall Format Changes in Southern Oregon Visit
By: Phil W. Hudson

GRANTS PASS, Ore. — U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., outlined his legislative agenda and defended his decision to replace in-person town halls with telephone formats during a recent interview with the Grants Pass Tribune.

Bentz, who represents Oregon's 2nd Congressional District, cited organized disruptions at four in-person town hall events earlier this year as the reason for the format change.

"It's not productive for people to hijack my platform to scream at a congressman," Bentz told the Tribune, describing incidents in Baker City, La Grande, Pendleton and Port of Morrow where attendance surged to as many as 600 people compared to typical turnouts of 80.

Bentz attributed the disruptions to coordinated groups, though Matt Spurlock, chair of Rogue Indivisible, told the Tribune that neither his organization nor Oregon District 2 Indivisible were responsible for protests at the 2025 town hall events. The telephone town halls have reached approximately 31,000 constituents across three sessions.

Bentz identified rural hospital support and energy infrastructure as top priorities during the interview, the Tribune reported. As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, he warned that Oregon is "one drought year away" from power shortages due to reliance on the Columbia River.

The congressman also highlighted the Klamath Basin Water Agreement Support Act of 2024, signed into law in January 2025, which protects ranchers and farmers from bearing costs of dam reformation.

Bentz told the Tribune his office has handled 5,000 to 6,000 constituent cases since he took office nearly five years ago.

Bentz expressed opposition to Sen. Ron Wyden's proposed mineral withdrawals and wilderness expansions in southwestern Oregon, arguing the policies would harm the state's economy by restricting access to rare earth minerals.

"We have to catch up with China when it comes to rare earth minerals," he said, noting that one-third of federally managed land is already restricted.

The congressman added he would discuss a revenue-sharing model for mineral development with colleagues.

With a potential government shutdown looming, Bentz told the Tribune he supports a continuing resolution to extend funding through Nov. 21. He also expressed concern about a presidential proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, stating the policy could harm rural Oregon employers in healthcare and small businesses.

Bentz noted his relationship with the Trump administration has improved communication with federal agencies compared to previous Democratic leadership.

Oregon Pools Resources
to Help JeldWen Layoffs

The closure of the Jeld-Wen mill plant near Chiloquin has caused significant economic distress in the Klamath Basin by eliminating 128 jobs. In response, a collaborative network of local agencies is working to provide essential support and re-employment services to the displaced workers.

The assistance effort is spearheaded by WorkSource Oregon, which delivers "Rapid Response" services to the laid-off staff. These services include immediate job-seeker support, help with résumé writing and job applications, and providing essential information on Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits.

Workers are also connected to iMatchSkills, the state's online job matching system, to search for new employment opportunities. For those requiring new skills, Klamath Community College (KCC) is a central partner, offering various workforce retraining programs. These vocational training pathways include, but are not limited to, the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) program, along with certifications in fields like Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, and Advanced Manufacturing. KCC also provides fundamental educational resources such as GED degrees and English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction.

Financial assistance for training may be available through programs like SNAP Training & Education Program (STEP) and other Dislocated Worker resources. Local organizations like Klamath Works, in partnership with other businesses such as Columbia Forest Products, are actively working to place employees who possess transferable skills into similar roles within the region's wood products industry. Beyond job training and placement, resources are made available to connect workers with broader support, including information on healthcare options and assistance with housing and utilities through partners like 211info.

The ultimate goal is to enable the affected employees to find stability and successfully transition into new careers, mitigating the deep economic ripples caused by Jeld-Wen's withdrawal from the area where it was founded.

Klamath Falls Pump Track Project Provides Fundraising Updates
By: Phil W. Hudson

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — A community-driven effort to build a pump track facility north of Eulalona Park has raised more than $362,000 toward its $643,926 construction goal, organizers announced this week.

The project, coordinated by Healthy Klamath and managed through Sky Lakes Medical Center Foundation, has generated funding through multiple events and partnerships since the initiative launched earlier this year. The facility is designed as a circular trail for bicycles, skateboards, scooters and other wheeled equipment, with riders generating momentum through body movements rather than pedaling.

"We are also working with other local organizations — Klamath BMX, Klamath Trails Alliance, and local businesses — Falls Taphouse, Eco-Solar, etc. on other future events/campaigns to help further promote, raise awareness and raise more funds," Healthy Klamath Project Coordinator Eric Basangan told KCTV.

The Ritual Mountain Bike Film Festival on Sept. 5 generated $3,086 for the project. A "Bikes and Bites" campaign launch event, held in partnership with LEAP (Local Empowerment Action Program), drew more than 20 participants and reached over 7,000 viewers on social media while producing $208 in merchandise sales.

The online merchandise store launched on HealthyKlamath.com has recorded six sales totaling $437. Additional merchandise is available at Discover Klamath.

Dutch Bros participated through its "Buck for Kids" promotion on Sept. 19, donating $1 from each drink purchase to the pump track project. Final totals from that event are expected Oct. 6.

The project currently has raised approximately 56% of its construction goal, leaving a funding gap of roughly $281,354.

Healthy Klamath is collaborating with the City of Klamath Falls, Klamath County, Sky Lakes, the Oregon Department of Transportation, Cascade Health Alliance and Klamath Trails Alliance on the project.

According to project materials, organizers aim to achieve International Mountain Bicycling Association Bronze Level certification for the facility. The track is designed to provide year-round recreational access for users of all abilities.

"We're excited about the Klamath Falls Pump Track project, which we know will be a fantastic addition for our community," Merritt Driscoll, director of Healthy Klamath and Sky Lakes Foundation, said when the project launched in March. "Klamath Falls has a great track record of coming together to implement projects like the Moore Park Playground, and I am confident that, together, we can bring the Klamath Falls Pump Track to life."

Construction is expected to begin once the fundraising goal is met, with project completion targeted for summer 2027.

History comes alive in the dark when the lights go out at the Baldwin Hotel Museum this October.

The Klamath County Museum is offering guided flashlight tours of the historic four-story building on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the month.

The Baldwin Hotel Museum features 40 rooms filled with antiques and artifacts. The four-story building was constructed in1905 and once dominated the business district of Klamath Falls as the tallest structure in Southern Oregon at the time.

The building is reportedly haunted by the spirit of Maud Baldwin, a local photographer who worked out of room 401 and took her own life near the hotel in May 1926. Visitors have reported strange sounds, lights and noises, as well as figures and shadows seen from windows. The museum keeps a light on in Maud Baldwin's former fourth-floor studio as a sign of respect.

The restored building includes rooms decorated with 1910-era artifacts, including a kitchen, laundry room, music parlor, doctor's office and Baldwin’s fourth-floor photography studio. Her equipment and reproductions of her work remain on display.

The hotel's guest register includes names such as John Muir, Zane Grey and four U.S. presidents: James Garfield, William Taft, Woodrow Wilson and Theodore Roosevelt, according to OPB. The building operated as a hotel until 1977 and opened as a public museum in 1978.

The evening tours have been among the museum's most popular annual events.

Dark History Shines at Baldwin Hotel Museum with Flashlight Tours

By: Phil W. Hudson

Oregon Senate passes $4.3 billion transportation package

The Oregon Senate successfully passed the long-awaited transportation funding bill, House Bill 3991, in an 18-11 vote on Monday, September 29, 2025. This measure, which is expected to be signed by Governor Tina Kotek, is projected to raise approximately $4.3 billion over the next decade to fund road maintenance and operations by updating the state's funding sources.

The new revenue will be generated through multiple tax and fee increases. The bill includes raising the state gas tax by six cents, moving it from $0.40 to $0.46 per gallon, effective January 1, 2026. Annual registration fees for passenger vehicles will nearly double, increasing from $43 to $85, with similar increases for other vehicle types. Title fees for passenger vehicles will also see a substantial jump, rising from $77 to $216. Additionally, the payroll tax dedicated to supporting public transit will be doubled from 0.1% to 0.2% of a paycheck until January 1, 2028. The package also includes higher registration surcharges for electric and highly fuel-efficient vehicles, such as an increase from $115 to $145 annually for electric vehicles. Furthermore, the bill mandates that electric vehicle drivers either participate in the existing OReGO road usage charge program (paying 2 cents per mile) or pay a flat $340 annual fee by 2031.

The bill's passage followed a tense debate and attempts by Senate Republicans to halt the legislation. Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr (R-Dundee) offered two failed amendments: one to direct existing Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) funds to immediate needs, and another to give Oregon voters the final say on the bill in the November 2026 general election. Starr and other Republicans, including Sen. David Brock Smith (R-Port Orford), voiced criticism, arguing the tax and fee hikes would disproportionately harm rural Oregonians who often have lower incomes and must drive greater distances. Despite the bill passing, Starr stated Republicans would work toward creating a referendum to allow voters to reject or approve the legislation in 2026.

Democrats, while generally supportive, also expressed reservations. Sen. Courtney Neron Misslin (D-Wilsonville) called the bill "insufficient" because it does not address issues like seismic vulnerabilities or reduce greenhouse gas emissions but voted yes, asserting the bill is "necessary to keep essential services of transit."

The special legislative session was called by Governor Kotek after lawmakers failed to compromise on a solution during the regular six-month session. ODOT is currently facing significant budget shortfalls due to declining tax revenue, inflation, and spending restrictions, which would necessitate laying off nearly 500 workers and cutting essential services like snow removal and road maintenance. Kotek had already delayed the scheduled agency layoffs twice in anticipation of the bill's passage; the layoffs were last set to take effect on October 15th unless the bill was signed into law. The Senate vote was postponed twice previously as Democrats needed the presence of Sen. Chris Gorsek (D-Gresham), who was recovering from surgery, for the measure to pass.

ODOT Bill Scheduled for Vote Today

The Oregon Senate is scheduled to vote today, Monday, September 29, 2025, on the long-delayed transportation funding bill, House Bill 3991.

The vote has been repeatedly postponed as the bill requires a three-fifths supermajority to pass the tax increases, meaning all 18 Democratic senators must be present to vote in favor. The delays were primarily due to the necessary absence of a key Democratic member, Senator Chris Gorsek, who was recovering from a medical procedure.

The measure, passed by the House on September 1st, is a scaled-back version of a larger package that failed during the regular session. It is designed to raise an estimated $4.3 billion over the next decade to address a major budget shortfall in the state's transportation system, which would otherwise result in hundreds of layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and service cuts for public transit.

Key funding and policy provisions in House Bill 3991 include:

A 6-cent increase to the state's gas tax, raising it from 40 to 46 cents per gallon.
Increased vehicle title and registration fees.
A temporary doubling of the statewide payroll tax for public transit from 0.1% to 0.2%, with a sunset date in 2028.
A new requirement for drivers of electric and hybrid vehicles to enroll in a per-mile road usage charge (OReGO) program or pay an annual fee.
New accountability and audit measures for ODOT.

The vote is expected to take place this morning. Governor Tina Kotek has previously delayed planned ODOT layoffs until October 15th, contingent on the bill's passage.

Sources

Over 50M pounds of Jimmy Dean, State Fair Items Recalled for Possible Wood Contamination

The Hillshire Brands Company, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods, is recalling more than 50 million pounds of frozen corn dog and sausage products because they may be contaminated with pieces of wood.

The recall involves approximately 58 million pounds of frozen corn dog and sausage-on-a-stick products, including those sold under the State Fair and Jimmy Dean brands. The recall was issued because the products may be contaminated with pieces of wood embedded in the batter. Five injuries have been reported in connection with the contamination.

Consumers are advised to check their freezers and should not consume the recalled items, but should instead throw them away or return them to the place of purchase. You can find more details, including a list of affected products and establishment numbers, on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) website.

Bonanza Junior/Senior High School has been named one of seven inaugural recipients of the College Access Champion Award by Oregon Goes To College, recognizing the school's exceptional commitment to preparing students for success after graduation.

The award specifically highlights Bonanza's dedication to expanding opportunities for all students, showcasing their innovative dual credit partnerships with Oregon Tech and Sky Lakes Medical Center, as well as robust career pathways in fields like construction, health occupations, education, and marketing.

Vision for Equity and Access

Principal Jordan Osborn stated that this recognition reflects the school's vision for equity and access in rural Oregon. "If we’re going to be a great school, we have to provide opportunities across the board for all of our students," Osborn said. "It all comes down to being college- and career-prepared. We’re really proud of the expansion of opportunities our students now have.”

Through its GEAR UP grant, Bonanza has been able to fund a full-time college and career readiness facilitator. This facilitator works with staff to guide students through crucial steps like college applications, FAFSA completion, job fairs, and career exploration activities.

Innovative Dual Credit Offerings

Bonanza has dramatically expanded its dual credit options in recent years:

Juniors now have access to dual credit courses, including environmental science.
Seniors can take as many as five college-level classes, including calculus, psychology, and a full biology series through Oregon Tech.
The partnership with Sky Lakes Medical Center allows students to take Health Occupations courses via Zoom, followed by in-person medical rounds to gain firsthand experience.

These opportunities are so significant that several Bonanza graduates are already on track to complete their bachelor’s degrees in just three years.

Overcoming Rural Challenges

Despite being nearly 40 miles from many higher education institutions, Bonanza has created innovative solutions to ensure access. Students take their Oregon Tech classes via Zoom, with in-person labs scheduled monthly. Teachers in the Bonanza classrooms reinforce the learning alongside the university professors.

Osborn emphasized the unique challenge of their location: “It’s easy for suburban schools to connect with college opportunities. For our kids, it takes creativity and strong partnerships. Sky Lakes and Oregon Tech have been incredible partners, and our students are thriving.”

As part of the recognition, Bonanza Jr./Sr. High School will receive a College Access Champion banner to display proudly.

“Our kids deserve equitable opportunity, and they’re kicking down barriers to get it,” Osborn concluded. “This recognition isn’t just about Bonanza; it’s about showing that rural schools can lead the way in preparing students for what comes next. We are champions for all students."

Oregon Goes To College is a statewide initiative of Oregon GEAR UP, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and supported by Oregon State University.

Bonanza Junior/Senior High School:
A Rural College Access Champion

Oregon Leaders Seek Legal Action Against Trump's Threat of Troops in Portland

Oregon leaders are actively preparing legal action and new legislation to counter President Donald Trump's potential mobilization of the National Guard in Portland. These preparations follow the President's comments last week in which he promised to "clean up" Oregon's largest city and "wipe out" protesters. Although the President initially declined to specify which city would receive troops, he soon mentioned Portland as a possibility, seemingly referencing a Fox News report about complaints of violence and noise linked to demonstrations at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. That news segment reportedly included 2020 footage of federal agents pepper-spraying an individual during racial justice protests.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has announced he is coordinating with Governor Tina Kotek and other state attorneys general, promising to take Trump to court "when he oversteps his authority," noting that his office has been preparing for this possibility since January. Rayfield pointed to a recent federal judge's ruling that deemed Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles following immigration raids illegal, raising concerns that the federal government is attempting to create "a national police force with the president as its chief." While that ruling only applies to California, it provides a legal precedent for Oregon's challenge.

The State of Oregon, along with the City of Portland, filed a 41-page federal lawsuit against President Donald Trump to block his authorized deployment of the National Guard to Portland. This legal action was announced on Sunday by Attorney General Dan Rayfield, who was joined by Governor Tina Kotek and Mayor Keith Wilson.

The legal challenge was prompted by an email Governor Kotek received Sunday morning from the U.S. Department of Defense. The email notified her that President Trump had invoked Title 10 to call 200 members of the Oregon National Guard into federal service for 60 days under the U.S. Northern Command. The stated purpose was to protect federal facilities, which Trump had dubbed “War-ravaged Portland.”

Oregon's leaders immediately and strongly objected. Governor Kotek said she shared her objections with President Trump during a seven-minute phone call the day prior.

The lawsuit challenges the legality of the President's order, calling it an infringement of state and local sovereignty and a violation of federal law. The suit argues that the deployment is an unjustifiable "overreach," pointing out that recent protests outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility have been small, "typically drawing less than 30 people." The core argument is that there is no factual basis for military intervention, and the presence of federal troops will be counterproductive, as the deployment "threatens to escalate tensions and stokes new unrest." The suit asks a federal judge to bar Trump from deploying troops to Oregon.

Furthermore, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson publicly rejected the call for federal intervention, stating the city neither needs nor requested assistance. The Mayor affirmed that the city's police are capable of protecting free expression while managing occasional disturbances at the ICE facility. In Congress, Oregon's Democratic U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici and Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden have reintroduced legislation from 2020 aimed at preventing the deployment of federal law enforcement without an explicit request from both a governor and a mayor. At the state level, an attempt to pass a bill to restrict the Oregon National Guard from federal and immigration enforcement duties was blocked by procedural maneuvers in the State Senate, but a chief sponsor has already suggested the measure will be revived in the 2026 legislative session.

Oregon Renames 91 Derogatory Named Places

Oregon is in the process of changing a slew of derogatory place names across the state, including Dead Indian Hill in Klamath County, and the public is invited to help with the task of coming up with new monikers. The effort was initiated by the Oregon Legislature, which earlier this year voted to speed up the process of replacing offensive place names. The Oregon Geographic Names Board (OGNB) is tasked with the job of coming up with new names.

They have not yet selected an official replacement name for Dead Indian Hill in Klamath County, and are currently seeking suggestions from the public, tribal nations, and stakeholders as part of the statewide renaming effort. This entire initiative was accelerated by the passage of Oregon's HB 3532 in May 2025, which directs the OGNB to proactively identify and recommend replacements for 91 offensive geographic features, including Dead Indian Hill.

The board will research all proposed names in consultation with local communities, tribes, and landowners before forwarding a final recommendation to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names for official approval. The name "Dead Indian" originated from a disputed incident during the Rogue River Wars in the mid-1850s, though similar features in nearby Jackson County were already renamed in 2021 to Latgawa Mountain and Latgawa Soda Springs.

This renewed effort in Klamath County follows a local precedent set in 2022 when the Klamath Falls City Council successfully renamed Kit Carson Park to Eulalona Park, honoring a historical Native American village.

9th Circuit Upholds Dismissal of
Covid Testing Case in Oregon

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging Oregon's former COVID-19 testing rules on religious grounds, ruling 2-1 that the plaintiff's objection was secular, not religious. The challenge was brought by a former health care employee who had been granted a religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine mandate but subsequently refused the required weekly nasal swab testing.

The plaintiff claimed the swabs were carcinogenic and that her Christian faith, which holds the body as a "temple," mandated that she avoid them. The majority opinion, however, found that her objection was rooted in her personal medical belief about the swabs' safety, and not a bona fide religious practice protected under federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act). The case affirms the lower court's dismissal, although it is still potentially subject to further appeal.

President Orders Troops to Portland to Quell Antifa

President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of U.S. troops to Portland, Oregon, on Saturday, September 27, authorizing the use of "Full Force, if necessary."

The President announced the directive on social media, stating he was ordering Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to provide all necessary troops to protect "War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists."

This move follows an increased presence of federal agents in the city and comes days after President Trump signed an order formally designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.

Portland's Mayor, Keith Wilson, has reportedly opposed federal intervention, stating earlier that the city had not asked for and did not need it. The deployment is the latest in a series of military or federal law enforcement deployments ordered by the President in various U.S. cities.

2 Men Arrested for Murder in Connection with Body Found in Klamath County

Two men have been arrested and charged with murder in Klamath County following the discovery of a body near the Sprague River on Tuesday.

A hunter found the body in a wooded area just before 4 p.m. and immediately called 911. Deputies with the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and determined the victim's death was a homicide. The victim was later identified as Robert T. Hein, 47, of Bellingham, Washington.

As the investigation continues, authorities have not yet released a ny information regarding Hein's cause of death.

The two men from Sprague River arrested and charged in the death of Robert T. Hein are Russell Dwayne Carroway, 38, and Devin Tyler Pellerin, 31.

Both men face charges of murder, tampering with physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse and were lodged in the Klamath County Jail.

Oregon's Congressional Delegation Urges Trump to Reverse Course on Portland

Oregon's congressional delegation is urging President Donald Trump to cancel plans to send federal troops to Portland, warning that the move is an abuse of power that risks repeating past violent clashes.

In a letter sent to President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the state's entire congressional delegation—Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Andrea Salinas, Val Hoyle, Maxine Dexter, and Janelle Bynum—demanded the administration reverse course.

The lawmakers stressed that deploying troops with "full military force" near the city and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility would only inflame tensions.

"Portland is a vibrant and peaceful city, and does not require any deployment of federal troops or additional federal agents to keep our community safe," the letter states. The delegation characterized the unilateral action as an "abuse of executive authority" that "seeks to incite violence, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and states."

t's easy.

Plan to Shudder NPS Service in Portland Meets Local Pushback

The window for public feedback is closing on a U.S. Forest Service plan that would shutter its Pacific Northwest headquarters in Portland, which is responsible for managing national forests across Oregon and Washington. This closure is part of a sweeping Department of Agriculture (USDA) reorganization announced by Secretary Brooke Rollins that aims to eliminate all nine regional Forest Service offices nationwide. The functions of the Portland-based Region 6 office, along with seven research stations, are slated to be consolidated into five new regional hubs, including one in Fort Collins, Colorado, and another in Salt Lake City, Utah. The administration states the goal of the restructuring is to reduce bureaucracy and move staff closer to rural communities; however, the plan has been met with concern from local stakeholders, conservation groups, and timber industry advocates who fear that moving decision-making authority away from the region will deplete local expertise, hinder effective forest and wildfire management, and ultimately degrade public services. The deadline to submit comments on the reorganization is set for Tuesday, September 30.

First Salmon to Cross Keno Dam

A Chinook salmon was recorded ascending the fish ladder at Keno Dam on the upper Klamath River this week (Sept. 24) — a powerful sign of recovery since the removal of four hydroelectric dams last year. Salmon have not been in this part of the Upper Klamath Basin for more than 100 years.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/CGm7ZG_1gAo

It’s a positive step for salmon because the majority of spawning habitat in the Oregon portion of the upper Klamath basin is above Keno Dam, Link River Dam, and Upper Klamath Lake.

While salmon were observed on the Keno Dam fish ladders last year, this is the first image of a salmon passing the dam. The video shows a salmon leaping the last pool of the ladder to the exit of the dam.

The cameras had been installed by ODFW and the Bureau of Reclamation just one day prior (Sept. 23) as part of efforts to monitor Chinook salmon migrating above Keno and Link River dams.

While challenges remain, this breakthrough brings hope for the return of one of the West Coast’s greatest salmon runs. Many partners including state and federal agencies, non-profits, and Tribes are working together to support this comeback.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host a waterfowl hunting workshop Oct. 3 at the Klamath Wildlife Area, part of a three-city Southern Oregon series designed to teach duck hunting skills to beginners and experienced hunters.

The Klamath Falls session runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 1850 Miller Island Road West. Additional workshops are scheduled for Medford on Oct. 4 and Roseburg on Oct. 5.

ODFW hunter education specialists will lead the instruction across all three locations.

"The interactive class outfits you with basic knowledge to confidently pursue ducks and other waterfowl on your own," ODFW said in a press release.

Justin Stubbs will organize the Klamath Falls workshop, which ODFW reports is designed to help hunters take advantage of Southern Oregon's waterfowl hunting opportunities.

The interactive class covers hunting seasons, regulations, habitat identification and duck hunting techniques. Participants will take home a duck call and learn to locate prime waterfowl hunting areas, understand essential gear from decoys to waders and develop calling techniques to attract ducks within shooting range.

The workshop cost $15 per person, with registration required by Oct. 2. Hunters can register through the MyODFW Workshop & Events page online or call 503-947-6002.

The Klamath Wildlife Area was established in 1958 as part of national conservation efforts following 1930s droughts that degraded wetlands across North America. The 2.5-mile area serves as habitat for wintering and nesting waterfowl and upland game birds.

The wildlife area hosts bald eagles, American white pelicans, greater sandhill cranes and up to 70,000 spring migrating geese with more than 25 species including tundra swans, northern pintails, golden eagles and barn owls throughout the year.

The Miller Island Unit operates daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., with peak waterfowl concentrations occurring from late winter to early spring and late summer to early fall. The area requires a parking permit and offers boat ramps, restrooms, picnic areas and trails.

The area sits within the Klamath Basin, recognized as one of the nation's top birding locations with multiple national wildlife refuges within 40 miles, about four miles south of Klamath Falls on Highway 97.

ODFW Waterfowl Hunting Workshop Coming to Klamath Falls

By: Phil W. Hudson

B

YMCA of Klamath Falls Announces New Leadership

By: Phil W. Hudson

The YMCA of Klamath Falls has named two new executives to lead the organization, promoting Joshua Zumwalt to chief executive director and hiring Natalie Parker as associate executive director.

According to the announcement, both executives will focus on strengthening programs, encouraging community connection and building on the organization's legacy of impact. They plan to foster partnerships with local nonprofits and community organizations, including local schools.

Zumwalt, who previously served as associate executive director, brings years of experience in fitness and youth development to his new role. He will oversee coordination of the organization's two community facilities: the YMCA Aquatic/Fitness Center on Alameda and the Youth Development Center, also known as the Fairview School.

"I am filled with an unwavering sense of purpose and a clear vision for the future of the YMCA of Klamath Falls," Zumwalt said in the press release. "I am incredibly grateful for the two decades of hard work and dedicated leadership from my predecessor, Steve Mang, and I am honored to carry his legacy forward."

Parker joins the Klamath Falls YMCA with extensive experience in fitness, business, consulting and nonprofit associations. In her role as associate executive director, she will assist Zumwalt in meeting the needs of the organization's two facilities.

"I am honored to join the YMCA as the associate executive director," Parker said. "This role allows me to combine my passions for health, wellness and community while supporting the important work of the Y and the dedicated employees who bring its mission to life every day."

Klamath Shows Strong Support as Oregon Women Veterans Prepare for Statewide Conference
By: Phil W. Hudson

Women veterans from across Oregon will gather Saturday for the 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference, an event that underscores the strong military connections maintained by communities like Klamath Falls.

Klamath County has demonstrated sustained military support through organizations such as the Klamath Falls Chamber of Commerce's Military Affairs Committee, which has backed the 173rd Fighter Wing at Kingsley Field since 2006. The committee, comprising more than 200 members, has written hundreds of support letters for Kingsley Field and coordinated military send-offs and welcome home ceremonies.

The Military Affairs Committee was established during Joe Spendolini Sr.'s tenure as chamber president and was initially chaired by Debbie Vought and Dan Keppen. It remains the chamber's largest committee and the only one open to non-chamber members.

The statewide conference, hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs since 1998, serves as the largest gathering of women veterans from every era of service in Oregon. This year's theme is "Stronger Together: Community and Connection."

The biennial conference supports ODVA's Women Veteran Charitable Fund, which provides assistance to women veterans throughout Oregon.

The free, one-day event will be held at the Riverhouse Lodge Conference and Events Center in Bend.

(Photo Courtesy of Joe Spendolini)

Oregon's Tina Kotek to Head Overseas Despite Warning to State Staff

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson will undertake a one-week trade mission to South Korea and Japan in October. The governor’s office argues the trip is crucial for the state's economic stability, despite Kotek recently directing state agencies to halt all "non-essential" out-of-state travel and prepare for deep budget cuts.

The mission is strategically important because Oregon has long-standing, significant partnerships with both Japan and South Korea, relationships which the governor's office says are crucial for Oregon’s long-term economic resilience. A governor-led mission carries unique weight, opening doors for high-level discussions and long-term partnerships that would otherwise be impossible. This focus on securing Oregon's global standing and delivering economic benefits is framed as a response to federal economic uncertainty and volatile international relations, particularly in the wake of "Trump-era disruption" from tariffs and budget cuts. The previous governor, Kate Brown, also led similar trade missions, promoting Oregon's agricultural products (like wine and berries) and the semiconductor industry.

The trip is being requested by four key state entities—Business Oregon, the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Travel Oregon, and the Port of Portland—and is expected to cost less than $200,000. The need for the trip is set against a challenging fiscal backdrop: the governor announced last month that the state should prepare to lose more than $15 billion in federal funding over the next decade.

Kotek has instructed agency heads to "leave no stone unturned to save tax-payer dollars," and next week, lawmakers are scheduled to return to Salem to consider a proposal from the governor that would raise billions via tax and fee increases to fund infrastructure and public transit.

Oregon Job Loss Reaches Epic Proportions

Oregon's job market is currently experiencing a historic crisis, with employers eliminating more than 11,000 jobs since the start of 2024—a wave of mass layoffs comparable to the worst days of the Great Recession. The cuts are widespread geographically, impacting communities from Astoria to Baker City and Milwaukie to Medford, but the bulk of the job losses are concentrated in the Portland area. Major corporate employers involved in these significant cutbacks include Intel, UPS, Wells Fargo, Albertsons, and Fred Meyer. The manufacturing sector has been hit particularly hard.

The trend of facility closures continued recently with Roseburg Forest Products laying off 107 people when it closed its hardwood plant in Dillard, a community in Douglas County. Adding to this distress, the window and door manufacturer JELD-WEN, which was founded in Klamath Falls but is now headquartered out of state, announced the permanent closure of its Chiloquin door-making factory in Southern Oregon. This closure, scheduled to be complete by the end of 2025, will result in 128 job losses and marks a continued retreat from the region where the company was founded.

Despite this two-year climb in the jobless rate, Oregon’s current unemployment figure of 5.0% remains modest by historical standards. While this suggests many displaced workers have been able to find new employment, that task is expected to become increasingly difficult as the layoffs mount in smaller communities and in specialized, high-skill industries like semiconductor manufacturing.

Tonight offers a clear and cool night for Southern Oregon and Northern California, with gusty winds along the coast expected to decrease, leading to lighter winds by morning. Low temperatures will be similar to the previous night, falling into the upper 40s to lower 50s in Westside valleys, the 30s on the Eastside, and the 50s along the coast. Looking ahead, temperatures will nudge up slightly on Saturday, marking the probable end of the recent summer-like stretch. By Sunday, clouds will increase and winds will pick up ahead of an incoming storm system, with some rain potentially reaching the coast by Sunday evening. The region is set to be impacted by two distinct storm systems through the first half of next week.

The first system is forecast to bring widespread rain from Sunday night through Monday, with most of the precipitation ending Monday night. A second round of widespread rain, accompanied by gusty winds, is expected on Tuesday. These clouds and rain will also usher in much cooler temperatures, dropping high temperatures to below-normal levels, with the Rogue Valley seeing highs in the 60s and the Klamath Basin in the 50s by Tuesday. Crucially, these two storm systems are expected to deliver beneficial rainfall, with totals possibly reaching 1 to 3 inches near the coast, over a half-inch to 1 inch in the Rogue Valley, and slightly less on the Eastside. Although some showers could linger into Wednesday, Thursday is forecast to be mostly dry, with temperatures beginning to rebound.

The Search For Sammy Continues : UPDATE

The search continues for Samuel "Sammy" Boehlke, an 8-year-old boy who vanished from Crater Lake National Park on October 14, 2006. Sammy, who had a mild form of autism, was visiting the park with his father when he reportedly ran ahead on a trail near the Cleetwood Cove trailhead and disappeared from sight. His family has shared that his adventurous personality and love of hide-and-seek likely contributed to the incident.

A massive search and rescue operation was immediately launched, involving hundreds of personnel, search dogs, and aerial support. The search was complicated by the rugged, steep terrain and a sudden snowstorm that hit the area shortly after his disappearance. Despite these extensive efforts, no trace of Sammy has ever been found. Investigators have consistently ruled out foul play and believe he likely became lost, injured, or succumbed to the harsh weather conditions. The case remains a high-profile cold case for the National Park Service.

The tragic and unsolved disappearance of Samuel "Sammie" Boehlke at Crater Lake National Park continues to prompt search efforts, with the Siskiyou County Search and Rescue Team and Oregon Authorities recently participating in a renewed operation. Sammie, then 8 years old, vanished near the Cleetwood Cove trailhead in October 2006 during a visit to the park. The boy, whose family reported he exhibited some behavioral signs of mild autism, ran into the woods and did not respond to his father's calls to stop. He was last seen wearing a black-and-green striped t-shirt, cargo pants, a blue winter coat, and red suede slip-on shoes. Siskiyou County volunteers are committed to continuing their efforts in hopes of finally bringing closure to Sammie’s family.

In the years since, Sammy's family has continued their efforts to raise awareness and help other families. His mother, Kirsten Becker, founded the program Autism Anchoring Dogs, which provides specially trained dogs to assist children with autism who have a tendency to wander. This initiative serves as a powerful legacy for Sammy and provides hope and safety for others. Search teams still periodically revisit the area, using the case as a training exercise for navigating the park's challenging terrain.

Sky Lakes Medical Center Launches Mobile Health Clinic to Serve Rural Communities

Klamath Falls, OR – Sky Lakes Medical Center has announced the launch of its new mobile health clinic, a crucial initiative aimed at bringing essential healthcare services directly to the rural and underserved communities in the region. This new program will significantly enhance access to medical care for residents who often face barriers such as long travel distances, transportation challenges, and limited local healthcare options.

The state-of-the-art mobile clinic is equipped to provide a range of primary care services, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, vaccinations, and basic urgent care. Staffed by a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, the clinic will travel on a scheduled route, ensuring regular visits to various communities that have historically lacked consistent medical access.

"We recognize the unique challenges our rural neighbors face in accessing quality healthcare," said a representative from Sky Lakes Medical Center. "Our mobile health clinic is a direct response to those needs, embodying our commitment to equitable healthcare for all. We are excited to bring our services closer to home for so many individuals and families."

The launch of this mobile clinic is expected to have a profound impact on public health outcomes in the region, helping to bridge the gap between rural populations and necessary medical attention. It represents a significant step forward in Sky Lakes Medical Center's ongoing efforts to foster a healthier and more connected community.

Fed Shutdown Looms Poorly for Oregon Families

A federal government shutdown poses a significant risk to Oregon, potentially exacerbating the state's existing hunger crisis and creating a greater reliance on already strained food assistance networks. While initial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may be secure for a short time, a prolonged shutdown could lead to interruptions.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is particularly vulnerable, with federal officials having previously warned that benefits could run out within a matter of days. In the event of a shutdown, the Oregon Food Bank anticipates a major increase in demand for its services, putting a strain on its network of food pantries and meal sites.

This comes at a time when the need for food assistance is already at historic levels, with visits to food assistance sites across Oregon having increased dramatically in recent years. Furthermore, a shutdown could impact federal employees in the state who are furloughed or working without pay, forcing them to turn to food banks for support. This potential crisis is also layered on top of recent federal budget decisions that have already led to cuts in programs that support food banks and local farmers, adding to the challenge of feeding a growing number of food-insecure Oregonians.

Wyden Follows Epstein Money

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden is actively pursuing the release of financial records related to Jeffrey Epstein that are held by the Treasury Department. As the ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Wyden has been investigating Epstein's finances for several years, arguing that "following the money" is the key to identifying those who enabled his sex trafficking network.

His office's staff has reviewed some of the documents, which they say include thousands of financial transactions totaling more than a billion dollars. Senator Wyden has been vocal in his efforts to compel the Treasury Department to provide the full set of files to Congress, which he says includes suspicious activity reports and details on payments made to Epstein from high-profile individuals. To that end, he has introduced legislation to force the release of the documents.

The Treasury Department, however, has stated that there are no hidden files and that Senator Wyden's requests are politically motivated. Despite this, Wyden maintains that the records contain crucial information that the American public deserves to see. His efforts have garnered some bipartisan support, with other lawmakers also calling for greater transparency on the matter.

Oregon Police Work to Identify
1946 Homicide Victim

The remains of "Oak Grove Jane Doe," a woman who was found dead in 1946, were exhumed this week in Oregon as part of an effort to solve the state's oldest unidentified person case. According to a news release from the Oregon State Police, the initial remains were discovered in a burlap sack along the Willamette River in April 1946.

Later that year, additional remains were found near Willamette Falls and the McLoughlin Bridge, and clothing believed to belong to the woman was located in the Clackamas River. Examiners determined the victim was a woman between 30 and 50 years old, who had suffered blunt-force trauma to the head and was dismembered after death.

Detectives at the time believed her remains had been put in multiple burlap sacks and discarded in the river. Despite the case receiving national attention, the woman was never identified. The investigation stalled in the 1950s when critical evidence, including the remains, went missing from law enforcement custody. The case was re-examined by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office in 2008, but no progress could be made without the body.

The "degraded" remains were exhumed on Monday, as stated by the Oregon State Police on social media. The agency expressed hope that the "advanced forensic testing and analysis" will "finally give her a name" and bring "resolution to this decades-old case."

Forensic anthropologist Hailey Collord-Stalder was quoted in the police statement, saying, "For decades, this case was presumed impossible to resolve, and now, after nearly 80 years, we are hopeful we can restore this victim's name and return her identity to history."

Oregon Wildland Fire Fighter Release from Fed Custody

Rigoberto Hernandez Hernandez, a 23-year-old wildland firefighter from Oregon, has been released from immigration detention after being arrested by federal agents last month while battling a wildfire in Washington. According to a statement from the Innovation Law Lab, Hernandez was released on Tuesday after nearly four weeks in custody at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington.

His lawyers, from the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) and Innovation Law Lab, stated that his release came after they filed a federal lawsuit and a petition for habeas corpus on his behalf. Hernandez was arrested on August 27 while working to contain the Bear Gulch fire. His attorneys have asserted that the arrest was unlawful and violated Department of Homeland Security policies that prohibit immigration enforcement in areas of emergency response. Court filings by his lawyers claim that federal agents arrested Hernandez without a warrant or probable cause, based on his race and after he invoked his Fifth Amendment right to silence. The U.S. Border Patrol, however, has said that the arrest did not interfere with firefighting efforts.

In a statement released by his lawyers, Hernandez said, "I am glad that I am home, and I am excited to see my family. I want to give my thanks to everyone—for their prayers, for the rallies, for sharing about what happened to me and the other firefighter. So many people stepped up to help, and now I want to help others just like they helped me."

Hernandez has a pending U-visa application, which he filed in 2018. The U-visa is granted to victims of serious crimes who assist law enforcement. His lawyers state that his family was the victim of a fraudulent scheme, and his father's testimony helped secure a conviction against the perpetrators. Oregon's senators, Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with other congressional leaders, had called for his release.

Trail Blazers Sale Could be Nixed By Lawsuit

A new lawsuit filed by a rival bidder, RAJ Sports Holding LLC, is seeking to disrupt the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers. The lawsuit, filed in Delaware, specifically aims to block the founders of Panda Express, Andrew and Peggy Cherng, from joining the investment group led by Tom Dundon, which has a formal agreement to purchase the team.

According to a report by Law360, RAJ Sports Holding LLC, which also owns the Portland Thorns (NWSL) and Portland Fire (WNBA), alleges that the Cherngs and a related entity "breached a July 24 confidentiality and exclusivity agreement." The documents related to the case are largely under seal, so specific details of the allegations are not yet public.

The lawsuit does not directly challenge Dundon's ownership of the team, nor does it involve the Paul Allen estate, the NBA, or the WNBA. It's unclear what impact the suit will have on the sale, but it could complicate Dundon's ability to finalize the deal.

The Paul Allen estate reached a formal agreement to sell the Blazers to Dundon's group at a valuation of $4.25 billion. The Cherng Family Trust was announced as a key investor in the new ownership group, along with other investors. The sale still requires approval from the NBA Board of Governors and is expected to close by the end of the year.

Progress on Township Fire

The Township Fire in Klamath County, Oregon is 312 acres in size and is 50% contained. It is currently active. The most recent update from the provided text is from about 17 hours ago, stating the 50% containment figure.

Fire activity has remained minimal with no new fire growth, according to a report from a day ago. Any flare-ups have been contained within established control lines. Firefighters have been working to reinforce dozer and hand lines and "cold trailing" areas, which involves checking for and extinguishing hot spots by hand. Smoke is expected to remain visible as residual fuels continue to burn. Air support, including air tankers and helicopters, is being used as part of the suppression efforts.

Official updates are being released by the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) and the Lakeview Interagency Fire Center (LIFC). The most recent search results show that as of September 24, the fire is still being managed with a focus on containment and mop-up operations.

51 New Laws to Take Effect Friday

Starting Friday, September 26, 2025, some 51 new laws passed by Oregon lawmakers will take effect. These measures cover a range of topics, including gun control, taxation on oral nicotine products, and various labor and employment regulations.

Oregon is banning rapid-fire gun devices like bump stocks, which can make a semi-automatic weapon function similarly to an automatic one. This ban, part of Senate Bill 243, prohibits the transport, manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, purchase, or receipt of these devices. The legislation also grants local governments the authority to restrict the carrying of concealed handguns in some public buildings. Additionally, the implementation date for Measure 114, which limits gun magazine capacity and requires a permit to purchase a gun, has been changed to March 15, 2026.

A new tax will be implemented on oral nicotine products, such as Zyn pouches. For packages with 20 units or less, the tax is $0.65 per container. For packages with more than 20 units, an additional 3.25 cents per unit will be taxed. The revenue from this tax, estimated to be about $14.3 million over the next two years, will be used for wildfire risk reduction programs. One-third of the funds will go to the Landscape Resiliency Fund for restoration and fuel reduction, while the remainder will be managed by the Oregon State Fire Marshal in the Community Risk Reduction Fund to help local governments reduce fire risk.

Several labor-related changes will also take effect. Employers can now require a fitness for duty certification from employees returning from Paid Leave Oregon due to a serious medical condition, provided it is a uniform policy. Paid Leave Oregon benefit amounts can be disclosed to employers to allow them to limit the use of other paid time off to supplement these benefits. The law clarifies that paid sick time can be used for any reason that also qualifies for Paid Leave Oregon leave. The definition of a "child" for OFLA family leave is now clarified to include children under 18 or those over 18 who are substantially limited by a physical or mental impairment. Furthermore, a new Employer Assistance Division is being established within the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) to provide education and guidance to help employers comply with labor laws. Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) must now be licensed, and a new bill clarifies the definition of age discrimination, restricting employers from requesting age-related information before a conditional job offer.

$2M Will Fraud Case Heads to Trial in Klamath County
By: Phil W. Hudson

A trial date hearing is scheduled Monday for two women facing felony charges in an alleged $2 million will fraud case that disinherited a deceased woman's daughter.

Renee Pereira (Case: 24CR56162) and her daughter Kristine Pereira (Case: 24CR56156) are both scheduled for court appearances on Monday, September 29, at 2 p.m. in Klamath County Circuit Court. Renee's hearing, before Judge Stephen R. Hedlund, is an objection hearing which typically addresses disputed legal matters. Kristine is also scheduled for a pre-trial conference on the same day before Judge Hedlund.

According to court records, Kristine's case has two additional hearings scheduled. A trial readiness hearing will take place on October 21 before Judge Alycia Edgeworth Kersey, followed by a motion hearing on October 24, also before Judge Hedlund.

Klamath County District Attorney David Schutt filed charges against both women for attempted aggravated theft, forgery, identity theft and computer crimes. They pleaded not guilty.

The charges stem from a will filed in April 2023 following Cathy Gerlett's death two months earlier. The will gave 80% of Gerlett's estate to Kristine Pereira while completely excluding Gerlett's daughter, Kristy Gerlett, who was designated to receive 25% under a legitimate 2018 will.

Kristy Gerlett hired legal counsel after suspecting fraud. Witnesses listed on the will and the notary filed sworn declarations in July 2023 denying their signatures were authentic. A handwriting expert confirmed Cathy Gerlett's signature was forged, copied from the 2018 will.

"People need to know what has happened here," Kristy Gerlett told KCTV, noting she has addressed concerns with the Klamath County Board of Commissioners. "It was a modern day grave robbery and they used the court system to do it."

A judge froze the estate and invalidated the fraudulent will in September 2023.

According to court documents, thousands of dollars in unauthorized charges appeared on Cathy Gerlett's credit cards while the forged will was in effect, including gift vouchers, hotel stays and casino expenses.

Court records show Kristine Pereira faces multiple criminal cases. According to Gerlett, Kristine was booked and/or released five times over 10 months without paying bail. Gerlett also added that Kristine faces 28 felonies and four misdemeanors across five separate cases.

Gerlett noted that Kristine is currently wanting to “suppress” the forensic evidence found on her laptop and wants all cases to be tried separately, while the state does not. Next Monday's hearing will bring greater clarity to the case.

"I have been very critical of KCSO with its handling of my mom's case," Kristy Gerlett said, noting she has addressed concerns with the Klamath County Board of Commissioners. The Klamath County Sheriff's Office did not respond to a request for comment.

The case highlights gaps in Oregon's probate system, which does not verify wills before acceptance.

Representatives for Renee and Kristine Pereira were not available for comment by time of publication.

Oregon First in Nation as Most Accessible

Oregon has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first state to be certified as 'Accessibility Verified.' This prestigious designation, a joint effort by the Oregon Tourism Commission (Travel Oregon) and Wheel the World (WTW), is set to transform travel for individuals with disabilities.

It empowers those with visible and non-visible disabilities to confidently plan their trips, assured that Oregon's tourism businesses are equipped to meet their specific needs. This initiative positions Oregon as a leading example of accessibility, providing thorough, verified information on accessible lodging, activities, and attractions across the state.

Spanning all seven of Oregon's tourism regions, this new program ensures that travelers facing mobility, visual, hearing, or cognitive challenges can navigate their plans with ease. The availability of comprehensive accessibility data online makes this partnership an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore Oregon's diverse offerings, from its stunning outdoor landscapes to rich cultural experiences.

Klamath County Board of Commissioners Business Meeting

(Sept. 23, 2025)

by Jason Collins

The Klamath County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on Tuesday afternoon. Commissioner Kelley Minty was absent while Commissioners Andy Nichols and Darren DeGroot were present.

The meeting opened without public comment, allowing the commissioners to quickly move through the day’s agenda.

First, the board approved the transfer of a Ford F250 pickup from the Public Works Department to the Maintenance Department. The Public Works Department sold the pickup for $15,456.

The board then approved a three-year licensing agreement with Esri for Geographic Information Systems software, valued at $180,900, which was covered by the technology maintenance budget. In other business, the board also approved the agreement with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company to offer a whole life insurance policy to employees.

They also approved an amendment to the county’s PERS agreement. The change expands eligibility to include parole and probation officers hired after 2021 and deputy district attorneys employed since 2024, classifying them as police officers under state law.

Before closing the meeting, commissioners approved an agreement between the county and Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC). This will allow the completion of the Community

Corrections Parking Lot Expansion Project.

White-Nose Syndrome Detected in Oregon Bats for First Time

The fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, has been detected in Oregon for the first time. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the fungus's presence in bat guano collected at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park in Clatsop County. This finding, while not a confirmed case of the disease itself, is a significant development in the multi-agency surveillance efforts coordinated by the USGS. The sample was likely from a Yuma myotis bat.

Since its initial detection in New York in 2007, white-nose syndrome has caused the deaths of millions of bats across North America. The fungus disrupts bat hibernation, causing them to wake more frequently, which leads to the premature use of critical fat reserves, and can result in starvation and death. While the disease does not affect humans, it can be spread by people on contaminated clothing and gear.

Oregon has been surveying for the fungus and disease since 2011, with efforts from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and various federal partners.Following this new discovery, ODFW scientists and partners will increase their surveillance and monitoring of bat populations across the state.

Bats are a vital part of the ecosystem. To help protect Oregon's bat populations, the public is encouraged to take preventative measures. It is recommended that people disinfect their gear and shoes after recreating in or near caves or other known bat roosts. A solution of isopropyl alcohol (50-70%) or hydrogen peroxide wipes can be used for decontamination. Additionally, if you see an unusual, sick, or dead bat, report it to the ODFW's Health Lab. It is important to never touch a bat, as they can carry other dangerous diseases like rabies.

Army Veteran Joins Klamath Falls Police Department
By: Phil W. Hudson

The Klamath Falls Police Department recently welcomed U.S. Army Veteran Justin Hughes as its newest officer.

Hughes, a Hawaii native who grew up in southern Oregon, brings more than a decade of military experience to the position. Born in Honolulu, he spent most of his childhood in Medford and Eagle Point before graduating from Eagle Point High School.

Hughes enlisted in the Army following graduation as an infantryman, serving more than a decade at multiple installations including Fort Campbell, Fort Lewis, Fort Benning and Fort Drum. He completed two deployments to Syria and Kuwait. His infantry background provided skills that translate directly to police work including training in high-stress situations, weapons handling and team coordination.

"Justin is looking forward to serving the community of Klamath Falls," the department stated in announcing his hire.

Hughes enjoys golf, running and weightlifting in his free time.

KWUA To Host 18th Annual Harvest Tour

KWUA is holding its 18th Annual Fall Harvest Tour on October 1, 2025. This free, day-long event offers an in-depth look at the Klamath Basin's agricultural community and harvest activities.

Participants will learn about the relationship between agriculture and environmental stewardship directly from local farmers, water managers, agribusiness representatives, and educators.

The tour is open to everyone, including community members, students, and elected officials. Space is limited to 56 participants, so early registration is encouraged to secure a spot. Lunch is included, thanks to generous sponsors.

Wyden Family Accused of Sexual Harrassment

A lawsuit was filed this month alleging that the children of U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden sexually harassed a former assistant of his wife, Nancy Bass Wyden. The suit further claims that Bass Wyden, owner of New York City’s Strand bookstore, then retaliated against the assistant, Brandon O’Brien, causing him such severe distress that he took his own life.

The lawsuit, filed by O'Brien's husband, Thomas Maltezos, states that O'Brien worked for Bass Wyden from June 2022 to September 2024. During this time, the suit alleges, Wyden’s and Bass Wyden’s children sexually harassed O’Brien and discriminated against him because he was a gay man. When O’Brien raised these issues with the couple, the lawsuit claims they “took no corrective action. Specific allegations include that Bass Wyden's teenage son used homophobic slurs against O’Brien and threatened him with sexual violence.

The lawsuit also accuses Wyden's then-10-year-old daughter of making sexually explicit comments and exposing herself to him. Maltezos alleges that after O'Brien complained about the girl's behavior, Bass Wyden took an unspecified amount of time to hire another person to transport the child to and from school. O'Brien quit on September 30, 2024. He died by suicide in May.

In response, Bass Wyden has called the lawsuit “built on deliberate falsehoods and distortions.” She claims that O’Brien’s accusations of harassment only came to light after he quit, and that he was about to be fired for stealing from her and her family. She further accused O’Brien of a “calculated effort to groom and bait the children, then twist isolated interactions in a manipulative attempt to extort me.” The lawsuit, however, alleges that Bass Wyden falsely accused O’Brien of theft and credit card fraud as a form of retaliation, spreading “false rumors and defamatory statements” that interfered with his job prospects. Maltezos is seeking financial damages and is asking a New York County judge to require Bass Wyden’s company to implement anti-harassment training and policies.

Sen. Wyden is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit, and a spokesperson for his office has referred all questions to Bass Wyden’s companies.

SNAP Errors Loom Large for State Coffers

Oregon is grappling with significant challenges regarding its food stamp program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These issues are stemming from increased workloads for eligibility workers and a recently enacted federal law that threatens to cut funding unless the state's high error rate is addressed.

The state's SNAP payment error rate for fiscal year 2024 stood at 14.06%, ranking among the highest nationwide. This rate, which tracks the accuracy of eligibility and benefit calculations, can result in overpayments or underpayments. A new federal law, signed in July 2025, overhauls the SNAP funding structure, mandating that states with error rates above a certain threshold contribute to a portion of the benefit costs. Given its current error rate, Oregon could be on the hook for a substantial share of SNAP benefit costs, potentially amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

The new legislation shifts the state-federal administrative cost share from a 50/50 split to a 75/25 ratio, intensifying the financial strain on Oregon. In response, Oregon's government has implemented "immediate executive level oversight" to tackle the issue. The Department of Human Services has established a specialized team dedicated to lowering the error rate through enhanced staff training and technological upgrades.

The new federal law also introduces other changes that will affect Oregon's SNAP program. Adults between the ages of 18 and 65 without children under 14 will face new work requirements, impacting an estimated 310,000 Oregonians. Additionally, the law removes eligibility for certain immigrant communities and modifies how utility assistance factors into benefits, leading to a loss of benefits for approximately 17,000 households. A state analysis projects an overall federal funding shortfall of $15 billion for Oregon, impacting not just SNAP, but also Medicaid, education, and transportation.

These changes are anticipated to further burden Oregon's eligibility workers, who are already contending with high caseloads. The Oregon Department of Human Services has acknowledged that the state's budget will be insufficient to cover all the funding gaps, indicating that difficult decisions lie ahead.

Fred Meyer Shrimp Latest on Radioactive Recall

A recall of shrimp that may be contaminated with a radioactive substance, Cesium-137 (137Cs), has been expanded to include products sold at Fred Meyer and QFC stores, which are part of the Kroger family of brands.

The expanded recall involves nearly 157,000 pounds of frozen and cooked shrimp products that were sold between June 12 and September 17. The shrimp was imported from an Indonesian firm, and the FDA is investigating the source of the contamination, noting that the products may have been "prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions."

The affected products include Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp, Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp, and AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers. While the level of radioactivity found in a tested sample was well below the FDA's "Derived Intervention Level" for acute health hazards, health officials state that long-term, low-level exposure to Cesium-137 can increase the risk of cancer due to DNA damage.

Consumers who have purchased these specific shrimp products are advised not to eat them. Instead, they should dispose of the products or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. This is the second major recall related to this supplier, following an earlier alert in August that involved Walmart's Great Value brand shrimp. The FDA has placed the Indonesian supplier on an "Import Alert" to prevent additional potentially contaminated products from entering the U.S

Summer Time Temps Aren't Over for Klamath Basin

Clear skies will hang around tonight, leading to another cool and chilly evening. Westside valleys can expect lows in the mid-to-upper 50s. On the eastside, it will be much colder, with temperatures dropping into the 40s and even the 30s. Along the coast, some clouds may return overnight, and lows will fall into the 50s.

Wednesday will be even hotter for inland areas. Coastal areas may see the return of marine clouds as an onshore flow develops. High temperatures will be in the 60s to near 70 degrees at the coast. Meanwhile, westside valleys will be much warmer, with highs surging into the mid-to-upper 90s, while the eastside sees temperatures in the 80s.

Thursday will be a little cooler than Wednesday but will still be dry with above-average temperatures. This summer-like weather is expected to last through the weekend, with temperatures rising slightly again on Saturday. Skies will be mostly sunny for the rest of the week and through the weekend. Looking ahead, we're watching for a potential storm system early next week, which could bring increased clouds and maybe some showers, mostly along the coast. It looks like summer isn't leaving anytime soon.

Fall Begins at 11:19 AM in the Klamath Basin

The first day of astronomical fall in The Klamath Basin is Monday, September 22, 2025, at 11:19 a.m. PDT. The autumnal equinox marks the exact moment when the sun crosses the equator, officially beginning the new season in the Northern Hemisphere. The Northern Hemisphere will officially begin its autumn season, while the Southern Hemisphere starts spring. At this specific time, the sun will be directly overhead an imaginary point in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.

This twice-a-year event, when the sun appears to cross the celestial equator, is called an equinox. The term comes from the Latin for "equal night," referencing the fact that on this date, day and night are nearly equal in length across the globe.

The common idea of an equinox as a time of equal day and night is an oversimplification. This is because of two key reasons. First, the Earth's atmosphere bends light, a phenomenon called refraction. This makes the sun appear higher in the sky than it actually is, causing it to rise earlier and set later in the day. When the sun looks like it's resting on the horizon, it has already dipped completely below it. Second, sunrise and sunset are officially defined by the moment the first or last part of the sun's upper edge becomes visible, not its center. These two factors together mean that on the day of the equinox, the duration of daylight is always slightly longer than 12 hours

And at the North Pole, the sun currently is tracing out a 360-degree circle around the entire sky, appearing to skim just above the edge of the horizon. At the moment of this year's Autumnal Equinox, it should theoretically disappear completely from view, and yet its disk will still be hovering just above the horizon. Not until 52 hours later will the last speck of the sun's upper limb finally drop completely out of sight.

This strong refraction effect also causes the sun's disk to appear oval when it is near the horizon. The amount of refraction increases so rapidly as the sun approaches the horizon, that its lower limb is lifted more than the upper, distorting the sun's disk noticeably.

Township Fire: 285 Acres, Near Merrill

The Township Fire, which started yesterday at around 5:07 p.m., is burning in the Klamath Hills south of Klamath Falls, off Lower Klamath Lake Road. As of this morning, the fire is estimated to be 285 acres and has 0% containment. It is being driven by strong winds and challenging, rocky, and steep terrain, which has hindered firefighting access.

This morning, the South-Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) Type 3 Incident Management Team has taken command of the incident.

Overnight, cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity slowed the fire's activity, allowing ground crews to make progress by building containment lines around much of the fire's perimeter using both dozers and hand tools.

Today's operational goals are to secure the existing containment lines and build additional lines in areas that were not accessible overnight.

While there are no evacuations in place at this time, the public is advised to avoid the fire area unless necessary to ensure the safety of both the public and firefighters.

Residents are reminded that Klamath and Lake counties are in active fire season and all outdoor burning is prohibited. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Klamath County Scores $715,000 Grant for Library Community Courtyard
By: Phil W. Hudson

Klamath County landed a $715,000 grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's Local Government Grant Program to construct a community courtyard at the county library.

The Klamath County Library Community Courtyard will be built on the vacant lot at 296 Main Street, according to county officials. The multi-use outdoor space will feature a small amphitheater for library programming and public events, park areas, picnic facilities, a water feature and ADA-accessible restrooms and pathways.

"This grant award is a significant investment in Klamath County's future," Commissioner Kelley Minty said. "The Library Community Courtyard will be a welcoming space that celebrates our community and enhances the resources available at our library."

The courtyard is designed to serve as an outdoor hub for gatherings, arts and cultural activities and quiet relaxation for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, county officials said.

Commissioner Derrick DeGroot said the project will expand library services beyond traditional boundaries.

"Klamath County libraries are more than just buildings with books — they are true community gathering places," DeGroot said. "This new courtyard will expand what the library can offer, providing an outdoor space for learning, connection and celebration that everyone can enjoy."

Commissioner Andy Nichols noted the project reflects the county's commitment to creating public spaces that support community development.

"We are grateful to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and the LGGP Advisory Committee for their support of this important project," Nichols said.

Construction is expected to begin next year.

Senior Center to Host Annual Wellness Expo Tuesday

By: Phil W. Hudson

The Klamath Basin Senior Citizens' Center will host its fourth annual Age Well Expo on Tuesday, offering free health and wellness programming for older adults and families.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the center, located at 2045 Arthur St.. The expo aims to connect attendees with health and wellness experts and organizations that support well-being across all ages.

The morning schedule includes a 9 a.m. "Walk with Ease" session led by Ellen Radcliffe from the YMCA, followed by community yoga at 9:30 a.m. with instructor Kathy Crist from Bliss Yoga. At 10 a.m., Karen Doyle Watkins will lead a SAIL fitness program, followed by "Mobility from Head to Toe" with Anne Davenport at 10:30 a.m. The event concludes with bingo at 11 a.m., featuring prizes supported by Klamath Hospice, Klamath County Public Health and Sky Lakes Volunteer Services.

More than 20 organizations will participate as exhibitors, including Sky Lakes Medical Center, Oregon Department of Human Services, Klamath County Public Health, and the Foster Grandparent Program. Several tables will feature raffles, activities and demonstrations.

Sky Lakes Wellness Center will provide free flu shots via mobile clinic and offer grip strength assessments. The Klamath County Library will operate a special branch during the expo with a raffle and bookmark-making station.

The center encourages attendees to explore resources both at the facility and within the broader community, with a focus on staying active and independent at all ages.

The event is sponsored by Cal-Ore Communications, Klamath Basin Behavioral Health, Crystal Terrace of Klamath Falls and Trustwell Living at Rogue River Place. Klamath Basin Behavioral Health will provide breakfast for all attendees and lunch for individuals under 60.

Klamath Police Launch Camera Registry to Aid Investigations

By: Phil W. Hudson

The Klamath Falls Police Department has launched a voluntary security camera registration program designed to help officers locate potential surveillance footage more quickly during criminal investigations.

The program allows residents and businesses to register their security cameras in a database that officers can reference when crimes occur nearby. Registration does not provide police with direct access to cameras or footage, according to department officials.

"By registering, you provide officers with a list of potential camera locations in the event of a crime," the department stated in program materials. "This helps investigators quickly identify where surveillance footage may exist—saving valuable time and increasing the chances of solving cases."

Under the program, camera owners voluntarily provide their contact information and camera locations to create a secure database. When crimes occur, officers may contact registered participants to request relevant footage, but owners retain full discretion over whether to share recordings.

The department emphasized that participation involves no continuous monitoring or remote access by law enforcement. Police cannot view or control registered cameras, and footage is only used in investigations when voluntarily provided by owners.

The program aims to reduce investigation response times by eliminating the need for officers to canvass neighborhoods to locate potential surveillance cameras after incidents occur. Department officials said the registry could also serve as a crime deterrent by increasing awareness of camera presence in communities.

Residents and businesses can register cameras through the department's website.

Lights Out For Migrating Birds

The Bird Alliance of Oregon has issued a "Lights Out" alert for late September, encouraging residents to turn off non-essential outdoor lights. This action is part of a nationwide effort to protect migrating birds, many of which travel at night and use the moon and stars for navigation.

Artificial light from buildings and cities can disorient these birds, causing them to become exhausted by circling the light source. This also increases their risk of colliding with buildings, which is a significant cause of bird mortality. It's estimated that hundreds of millions of birds die annually in collisions with buildings in the U.S. alone.

The "Lights Out" campaign is a straightforward way for people to help, with recommendations including turning off lights from 11 PM to 6 AM, closing blinds, and using motion sensors for security lighting. The effort not only helps protect bird populations but also has the added benefits of saving energy and money.

Federal Lands Near California-Oregon Border Subject to Roadless Rule Repeal

The proposed repeal of the "Roadless Rule" has the potential to significantly affect federal lands near the Oregon-California border. This rule, officially known as the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, generally restricts new road construction and timber harvesting within inventoried roadless areas across National Forests.

These specific lands are highly valued for their conservation benefits, including providing essential wildlife habitat, safeguarding water quality, and offering opportunities for primitive recreation. Both Oregon and California have significant amounts of federal forest land that fall under the Roadless Rule protections. These areas include vast stretches of the Klamath Mountains, southern Cascades, and other ranges that span across the border region.

Should the rule be repealed or substantially altered, it could pave the way for increased road building, primarily for logging, mining, or energy development, within these previously protected zones. This expansion of infrastructure could lead to habitat fragmentation, increased human disturbance, and a loss of the wild character that defines these landscapes. Furthermore, the potential for erosion and sediment runoff from new road construction could negatively impact water quality in vital streams and rivers, affecting biodiversity. Many conservation groups, environmental organizations, and local communities are concerned about these potential impacts on natural resources and the unique ecosystems within these border regions.

Klamath County Deputies Investigating Double Fatal Shooting

On Thursday September 18th, 2025, at 5:03pm, Deputies from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the area of Kodiak Lane in Bonanza on a report of an unresponsive subject laying on the ground next to a vehicle. Responding deputies located the vehicle on Whitetail Lane along with two males in the vicinity. Both males were later pronounced deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.

The Klamath County Major Crime Team was activated which consists of the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, Oregon State Police, and the Klamath County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation is ongoing, and we urge anyone with information to contact the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.

For Klamath Community Television News, I'm Christopher German for Friday , September 19, 2025. For tonight's broadcast, it was a quiet news day in Klamath County but this weekend it will be buzzing in the basin. From tonight until Sunday there are a myriad of events across the region from, Bly all the way to the Running Y. Make sure you tune in every morning for weather from the Sky watch weather center with weather from the Klamath Basin for the Klamath Basin.

Get ready for a new downtown experience! The Tasting Room, Klamath Falls' new casual wine bar, is celebrating its grand opening with "Tastin' in the Basin," a special block party happening tonight Friday, September 19. Located at 404 Main St, right across from the courthouse, The Tasting Room is hosting a lively event that will feature a new selection of Oregon wines, small bite pairings, and guest pourers. Attendees can also enjoy food vendors and live music as part of the block party. The Tasting Room is open Thursday through Monday and serves cheese and charcuterie boards to complement its wine offerings. Tickets for the grand opening event are available, and be advised that 4th Street, between Klamath Avenue and Main Street, will be closed on 9/19/25 from 2:00 PM until 9:00 PM for the Tastin' in the Basin event.

A Walk in the Historic Pacific Terrace Neighborhood This walk is free and open to the public. We will meet on the backside of Roosevelt, that is the Pacific Terrace side at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, September 20th. The tour, led by Bea Naylor and Carol Mattos will last 1 hour. We will discuss the area between the school and the end of Pacific Terrace. Included will be the home of Dr. Merryman and his wife Mable, the tragic event at the home of Ray and Gene Oldenburg and the home built of blocks from Central School. Bring water and good walking shoes. No restrooms will be available. Brought to you by The Klamath County Historical Society For further information contact Carol Mattos at (541) 884-4032

The Bly Turkey Shoot starts at 9am at Paradise Creek Firearms Training at 17731 fishhole creek road in BLY. Prizes to include turkeys hams and gift cards as well as other great stuff, the Barbcue will start at 1130 All shooters will be required to sign a waiver All shooters under 17 must be accompanied by an adult All state and federal rules apply; no alcohol on the range, and participants must follow all range rules and guidelines as well as range officers.

Klamath Basin Oktoberfest 2025 is happening September 20 @ 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm at the Bill Collier Ice Arena 5075 Fox Sparrow Dr, Klamath Falls. Hosted by Klamath County Economic Development Association (KCEDA) each September alongside the German tradition, the Klamath Basin Oktoberfest is an affordable, family-friendly event that brings together Southern Oregon’s very best in brewers, food vendors, entertainment, and outdoor fun. The event promotes Southern Oregon’s brewing products, where brewers such as the highly acclaimed Skyline Brewing Company, will be in attendance. The Klamath Basin’s tastiest food options showcase some of the top region’s restaurant vendors, including delicious offerings from the Running Y Ranch Resort. People of all ages are welcome, with games, activities, and live entertainment such as Fleischklopfer, along with food to accommodate all interests and palettes. Event attendees look forward to many games and Oktoberfest-inspired contest such as “Best Dressed,” the People’s Choice Award for favorite drink, and beer stein holding competition. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Oktoberfest attire! FIRST SHUTTLE LEAVES MOORE PARK MARINA at 12:30PM LAST SHUTTLE LEAVES ARENA at 9:00PM

The Sidelines 5 Year Anniversary Celebration Car Show sponsored by Honda Subaru and Season's Change LLC is going to be amazing. Local vendors, Pourhorse Catering & Food truck, Jersey Boiis Coffee, Face Painting by Tori Hayman Creations, 50/50 raffle, trophies and more! Only $25 per car, and all cars are welcome On Saturday, September 20th, South 7th Street will be closed between Klamath Avenue & Main Street. The Aspen Parking lot will also be closed along with the diagonal parking on the adjacent Klamath Avenue. These closures will begin at 7:00 AM and end at 5:00 PM

D & R Auto and Industrial Inc. at 410 South 6th St. in Klamath Falls will host D&R's Annual Block Party and Car show is tomorrow from 10 t\until 2 PM ! From Join us for music food and fun. This community event includes free entry, food, games, beer, car show, live music, and much more.. This event will be held on Oak Ave. between S. 5th St. & S. 6th St. Motorists should use caution in the area can expect an increase in pedestrian traffic. Street closure of Oak Ave to last until 3:00 pm.

Don’t forget, the Lone Star Feed and Supply chili cook-off is tomorrow at 4 PM. It is completely free and they want you to try one of the contestants chili, and vote for the best chili in Chiloquin! the Lone Star Feed and Supply chili cook off is happening Across the street from wrights hardware in Chiloquin .September 20th, 4-7 pm!

Movie at the Museum Disney's MUFASA The Lion King Sep 20, 2025·Sat, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (PDT) Klamath County Museum 1451 Main St, Klamath Falls, doors open at 530 with free popcorn but you're also allowed to bring your own snacks if you would like. They will offer a fun educational program at 530, and pillows and blankets are highly encouraged and everyone is welcome at the museum

There will be a candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk for the community to come together and pray for our nation. They are planning on having pastors and other individuals pray together and they will gather on the steps outside the courthouse tomorrow Saturday September 20th at 630 pm

And Sunday there will be a day of Autumn fun at the Fall Artisan Market, held at Occasions Rental Venue, on September 21st from 10 AM to 4 PM. Explore and shop from 20 local vendors, enjoy delicious handmade treats and discover unique treasures. Food will be available to purchase from The Outlaw Food Truck. Don't miss out on this fantastic free event!

Turn Thom annual car show from 11 to 4. Signups begin at 1030 on Sunday September 21, Turn Thom Point S tire will be hosting their 3rd annual car show. All proceeds go to the Klamath County Food Bank. Help support our community. All vehicles welcome, brand new, classics, motorcycles, even your Radio Flyer wagon. They want to see them all! and everyone will be winner with raffle prizes ranging from oil changes to wiper blades!

The Basin is Buzzing This Weekend

West Coast Health Alliance Sets Vaccine Rules

A new set of vaccine recommendations has been released by the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA), a new bloc formed by Oregon, Washington, California, and Hawaii. This alliance was created in response to recent federal actions under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., including the firing of the CDC director and new restrictions on vaccine access.

The WCHA's recommendations, which cover COVID-19, flu, and RSV, are designed to ensure universal access to vaccines for all residents. This is in contrast to the latest FDA guidance, issued in late August, which recommended the updated COVID-19 vaccine only for individuals over 65 or those with specific medical risk factors.

Many medical and political leaders have criticized the new FDA guidance, arguing that it is not scientifically sound and is a result of Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance. Several governors, including Oregon's, have responded by issuing directives to ensure that all residents who want a COVID-19 vaccine can get one without a doctor's prescription, regardless of the new federal guidelines.

The WCHA's recommendations are based on guidance from trusted medical organizations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and are grounded in the principles of safety, efficacy, transparency, and access.

Sec.of Ag is Working to End "Roadless Rule"

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced plans to roll back the Clinton-era "roadless rule," which protects nearly 59 million acres of national forest from most road construction and timber harvesting.

The USDA's statement in June claimed that rescinding the rule would allow for fire prevention and responsible timber production. This has sparked debate, with a conservation group, EcoFlight, taking flights over potentially affected areas in southern Oregon. Opponents of the rollback, such as Haleigh Martin of KS Wild, argue that building new roads in these areas would actually increase fire risks and harm wildlife habitats. They highlight the importance of these roadless areas for recreation and for providing a large space for wildlife to roam.

On the other hand, supporters of the change, like Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., say the current rule has led to overgrown, unhealthy forests and has prevented rural communities from creating jobs through logging. He argued in July that the rule was "pushed through...by environmental activists in Washington, not the people that actually live near these forests and suffer from the smoke."

The public has a chance to voice their opinion, as the comment period for the rule change ends on September 20. Following this, the federal government will need to conduct an environmental impact assessment before the change can be implemented.

OIT Reaches Deal With Faculty Union

After eight months of negotiation, the Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) and its faculty union have reached a new five-year labor agreement. The deal is expected to bring a new sense of stability and collaboration to the university.

The agreement includes annual pay raises, stronger job security for non-tenured faculty, and the continuation of current health and retirement benefits. Both the university and the union are calling the deal a success, citing a shared commitment to student success and faculty well-being.

In addition to the contract, Oregon Tech plans to launch several new initiatives this academic year, including leadership training programs and efforts to improve communication and transparency across the campus.

In a joint statement, representatives from both sides said the agreement reflects

"months of hard work and mutual respect" and will help the university better serve students while supporting its dedicated faculty. More details are available on Oregon Tech’s official website.

Klamath Falls Named In Top 10 Places to Live in PNW

By: Phil W. Hudson

Klamath Falls has been recognized as one of the 10 best places to live in the Pacific Northwest by WorldAtlas, praised for its unique combination of affordability, access to outdoor activities, and high quality of life.

The report highlights that the city's median home prices are significantly lower than the Oregon statewide average, making it an attractive destination for various groups, including young families, retirees, and those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing amenities or scenic beauty.

The high-desert city is a hub for outdoor recreation, boasting an abundance of nearby trails, parks, lakes, and wildlife refuges. Moore Park offers green space and trails overlooking Upper Klamath Lake, while the Link River Trail provides a picturesque walk through town, tracing the "falls" that inspired the city's name. A short drive away, the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is a major draw for migratory birds, offering a stunning natural spectacle at sunrise or sunset.

With a history dating back to its founding as Linkville in 1867, and its renaming to Klamath Falls in 1893, the city is rich in pioneer and Native American heritage. Its character is further enhanced by historic buildings, local museums, and well-preserved downtown architecture.

Heading 5

Oregon Aims at Replacing Derogatory Names for Places

Oregon is in the process of replacing derogatory place names across the state, with the public invited to help, and I can think of a few of them in the local area.

The effort was initiated by the Oregon Legislature, which voted to speed up the process. The Oregon Geographic Names Board, a volunteer committee of historians, geographers, and educators, is leading the project. The board includes members from the Oregon Historical Society and the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute.

To help, the public can submit suggestions for new names directly to the Oregon Geographic Names Board. The board will then consult with local governments, tribes, and landowners before seeking final approval from the United States Board on Geographic Names. The goal of this initiative is to replace racist and offensive names, sending a message about Oregon's values and history.

Under Klamath Skies Tonight

Under Klamath Skies is back tonight, Thursday, September 18th, from 6 to 8 PM at the Klamath County Museum. This free, all-ages event will feature live music by ComicAusy at 6 PM and Racyne Parker at 7 PM.

You can also enjoy art exhibits, food, and museum walk-throughs. The event has a "free-flowing" format, so you can come and go as you like. It will be held both indoors and outdoors, depending on the weather.

Tastin' in the Basin 9/19/25

Get ready for a new downtown experience! The Tasting Room, Klamath Falls' new casual wine bar, is celebrating its grand opening with "Tastin' in the Basin," a special block party happening tomorrow, Friday, September 19. Located at 404 Main St, right across from the courthouse, The Tasting Room is hosting a lively event that will feature a new selection of Oregon wines, small bite pairings, and guest pourers.

Attendees can also enjoy food vendors and live music as part of the block party. The Tasting Room is open Thursday through Monday and serves cheese and charcuterie boards to complement its wine offerings. Tickets for the grand opening event are available, and be advised that 4th Street, between Klamath Avenue and Main Street, will be closed on 9/19/25 from 2:00 PM until 9:00 PM for the Tastin' in the Basin event.

Rain and Wind to End the Week, Sun Shines on Sunday

The weather forecast for the region indicates a shift in conditions. Today, clouds are expected to increase, with breezy winds Most areas will remain dry, though a stray shower is possible in Siskiyou, Klamath, and Lake Counties.

Temperatures will be cooler than recent days, with highs in the lower to mid-80s for the Klamath Basin, and eastside. The extended forecast shows more clouds moving in from Thursday night into Friday, bringing moisture from the remnants of what was once Tropical Storm Mario. This could lead to showers and thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday, particularly in Northern California and east of the Cascades.

By Sunday, the weather is expected to clear up and become dry, with sunshine returning. The start of next week looks warmer, though long-range models suggest a potential pattern shift to cooler and wetter conditions later in the week.

Klamath Falls Announces Plans for New City Hall

The City of Klamath Falls has approved the purchase of the former AmeriTitle building to serve as the new City Hall. This decision is a key part of the city's long-term Strategic Plan. The new facility is intended to achieve several goals, including saving millions in future building repairs and consolidating all City departments into a single, centralized location.

The move is designed to make it easier and more efficient for residents to access services. According to City Manager Jonathan Teichert, the investment is about "preventing escalating maintenance expenses and creating a City Hall that is more welcoming and efficient for our residents." The new building, located in the Downtown corridor, will replace three older facilities that require extensive and expensive upgrades, such as ADA compliance, seismic retrofits, and electrical improvements.

In addition to improved efficiency and long-term cost savings, the new City Hall offers enhanced accessibility, as it will be a fully accessible facility. The project is being funded through the City’s Capital Construction budget and the existing Building Reserve Fund. The purchase price is $3.16 million, with total acquisition costs of $3.22 million.

Importantly, the purchase and renovation costs will not require any new taxes or rate increases. The City plans to begin the process of planning for renovations and department relocation in the months ahead and has committed to providing regular public updates.

Governor Kotek Freezes Spending and State Travel

Oregon is facing a $373 million budget deficit after its projected surplus evaporated. In response, Governor Tina Kotek has taken action by freezing all non-essential state travel and directing agencies to cut spending. The sudden shortfall is a result of a combination of factors, including the impact of tariffs and a new federal law known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill."

The "One Big Beautiful Bill," signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes federal tax cuts that are having a significant impact on Oregon's state revenues. Because Oregon's tax code is automatically linked to the federal code, new federal tax deductions for things like tips and overtime pay are reducing the amount of income tax the state collects. State economists project this will result in an $888 million revenue loss over the current two-year budget cycle.

Additionally, the federal law includes major spending cuts to programs like Medicaid and food assistance, which are expected to cost Oregon an estimated $15 billion in federal funding over the next decade. These cuts shift the financial burden for social services back to the state. The combination of these tax and spending changes has erased Oregon's projected $472.8 million surplus, leaving the state with the current deficit.

In a letter to state agency directors, Governor Kotek ordered an immediate suspension of all non-essential out-of-state travel for conferences and trainings. She also instructed agencies to implement other cost-saving measures, such as holding vacant positions open for longer and reducing spending on supplies and services. These immediate actions are the first step in addressing the budget gap, with the governor indicating that more significant reductions may be necessary in the future.

Klamath Falls City Council Meeting (Sept. 15, 2025)

On Monday night, the Klamath Falls City Council met with Mayor Carol Westfall presiding.

The meeting opened without any public comments and got straight to business, starting with a $64,000 contract for this year’s fall street crack-seal project. An additional contingency allowance of $12,800 was approved.

They also approved the purchase of two new Ford F-250 service trucks for a total cost of $134,000, which was higher than initially quoted due to a sales error but remains within budget. The trucks will be used by the city’s wastewater and water divisions.

Council then held a public hearing on the land use ordinance involving the Almond Street cul-de-sac near the Shilo Inn. The council heard from the owner of the property, which is under new ownership, who explained that Almond Street cul-de-sac solely provides direct access, and around 90 feet of the cul-de-sac would need to be vacated. The council voted for the vacation of the cul-de-sac, clearing the way for the redevelopment of the property.

In a major move, the council authorized the purchase of a $3.22 million property, the former AmeriTitle Building at 300 Klamath Avenue, for the purpose of establishing a new city hall.

The council heard from finance director Jessica Lindsay on whether the council should adopt a supplemental budget for the 2025-2027 Biennial Budget. The revenue would increase by $3,220,000. Council members approved the resolution.

The meeting concluded shortly after 7:30 p.m.

Board of Commissioners Business Meeting (Sept. 16)

On Tuesday afternoon, the Klamath Board of Commissioners, Andy Nichols, Kelley Minty, and Derrick DeGroot met to consider bids, agreements, and licenses.

The meeting opened with public comments on paper mail and voting, including questions about why the Constitution Party is advocating to eliminate it. Commissioners moved on to proclaim Sept. 22–26 as Falls Prevention Awareness Week in the county.

Two property abatements were discussed. These included sites on Homedale Rd and Altamont Dr. After reviewing the bids, commissioners chose to decline both bids and reopen the bidding process.

Commissions also approved several agreements, starting with the approval of an amendment to the agreement between Outback Strong and Klamath County Public Health. The amendment sees an additional $27,998 in funding for overdose prevention programs.

They also approved intergovernmental agreements with the Oregon Department of Corrections, securing more than $9 million in funding for Community Corrections programs through 2027. This program will help keep programs like the transitional housing program running.

Commissioner Nichols emphasized that safety and security remain the most important priorities for government at all levels.

In addition, commissioners approved a grant agreement with the Oregon Department of Human Services, which will provide $9.7 million over two years to support local developmental disabilities services.

Under infrastructure, the board approved an additional $330,332 payment to Rocky Mountain Construction. This funding will be used for road overlay work and is a result of higher-than-expected material use.

Finally, the board recommended the renewal of liquor licenses for more than a dozen businesses, such as Black Bear Diner, Skyline Brewing, Abby’s, Lake Of The Woods Resort, and others.

Before the meeting closed, Commissioner Nichols took a moment to reflect on conservative Charlie Kirk’s death and condemned that level of violence. A moment of silence was taken.

DOJ Sues Oregon Over Voter Rolls

The Department of Justice has filed lawsuits against the states of Oregon and Maine, alleging that they violated federal law by refusing to hand over voter information. The lawsuits claim that Oregon and its Secretary of State, Tobias Read, have not provided an unredacted electronic copy of the state's voter registration list, information on the state's voter list maintenance program, or disclosed registration information for ineligible voters. The DOJ asserts that this refusal violates the National Voter Registration Act, the Help America Vote Act, and the Civil Rights Act of 1960.

In response, Oregon's Secretary of State Tobias Read has stated that he will fight the lawsuit in court, emphasizing his commitment to protecting the rights and privacy of Oregonians. He has previously criticized the administration's requests, stating that he does not believe the federal government has the authority to demand the sensitive data they requested, which included names, dates of birth, addresses, and driver's license numbers or partial Social Security numbers for all registered voters. He has also noted that while some voter data is public and available for a fee, a full unredacted list would violate state law.

The lawsuits are part of a broader effort by the Department of Justice to obtain voter data from numerous states. The DOJ's press release stated that both Oregon and Maine had provided the same requested information to a "private organization," which has been reported by news outlets to be the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC). However, the DOJ's lawsuit alleges that this information was not provided in the format they requested. Maine's Secretary of State, Shenna Bellows, has denied the DOJ's claim, calling it a lie.

The Justice Department's actions have raised concerns among some election officials who believe the requests constitute federal overreach and that the sensitive data could be used for other purposes, such as an investigation into claims of non-citizen voting.

The Klamath Tribes to Hold Special Meeting Thursday About Upper Klamath Basin

By: Phil W. Hudson

CHILOQUIN, Ore. — The Klamath Tribes (TKT) are set to continue a special general council meeting Thursday evening to address remaining agenda items focused on fisheries reintroduction and recovery efforts in the Upper Klamath Basin, as tribal leaders raise alarms over a federal proposal to allocate more water to irrigators that they say threatens sacred fish species.

The meeting, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 501 Chiloquin Blvd., will include a new Zoom registration link for virtual participation, according to tribal announcements. Key topics include the tribes' plan to implement the reintroduction of anadromous fisheries in the Upper Klamath Basin, an implementation strategy for the recovery of d C'waam (Lost River sucker) and Koptu (shortnose sucker) under a related resolution, language for a co-management agreement TKT and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and an update from an ad-hoc committee.

The discussions come amid heightened concerns over water rights in the region. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has proposed sending up to an additional 38,000 acre-feet of water, roughly 12.4 billion gallons, to Klamath Project irrigators, a move the tribes warn could lower Upper Klamath Lake below federally mandated levels and harm the endangered C'waam (Lost River sucker) and Koptu (shortnose sucker).

In the latest episode of the Klamath Tribes Podcast, Episode 51, TKT Chairman William Ray, Jr., and Vice-Chair Marvin Garcia discussed what they described as the trampling of tribal water rights due to the additional allocation. The leaders emphasized the tribes' ongoing fight for the survival of the C'waam and Koptu, as well as the health of Upper Klamath Lake and the surrounding watershed to preserve its reciprocal relationship with the people.

The continuation follows previous discussions on these environmental and cultural priorities for the tribes.

ODOT Legislative Session Further Delayed

In a special legislative session, the Oregon Senate has once again postponed a vote on a transportation funding bill. The vote was originally scheduled for Wednesday, but was delayed until the week of September 29.

The delay is a result of the ongoing health issues of Senator Chris Gorsek of Gresham. Gorsek, who is a key "yes" vote for the bill, has been hospitalized for weeks following complications from a recent surgery. Because the bill requires a three-fifths majority to pass and all Senate Republicans are opposed, Democrats need every one of their members to be present and vote in favor

The vote has been delayed multiple times since the special session began on August 29. This has prolonged a legislative session that Governor Tina Kotek and other Democrats had hoped would be a quick affair. The special session was called to address a transportation funding crisis that has led to layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and threatened to cut services. Kotek has directed ODOT to delay layoffs until October 15, on the assurance that the bill will eventually pass.

Clear Tonight with Rain Possible Friday

Tonight, skies will be clear to mostly clear. Lows are expected to drop into the mid-50s for westside valleys, the upper 40s to lower 50s for Northern California, and the 50s along the coast. An increase in clouds is expected on Thursday due to moisture from the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario.

This moisture is also expected to bring showers and thunderstorms to the region on Friday and Saturday, though there is still some uncertainty regarding the coverage of these storms. Temperatures will drop slightly toward the end of the week and into the weekend, but will remain a bit above normal for most areas.

By Sunday, it is expected to be dry with brighter skies returning for inland areas. The beginning of next week looks to be warmer with plenty of sunshine. However, long-range forecast models hint at a potential pattern shift later in the week, bringing cooler and wetter conditions to the region.

Rural Business Expo Scheduled for Sept 24
By: Phil W. Hudson

More than 50 business owners are expected to attend the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Rural Business Expo on Sept. 24 at the Klamath County Fairgrounds.

The chamber reported the expo aims to connect rural business owners and provide networking opportunities. The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Linman Hall, will feature workshops on digital marketing, employee recruitment and nonprofit board service.

Featured speakers include U.S. Chamber of Commerce Northwest Region Manager Katelyn Pay, who will discuss federal legislation impacts on businesses and nonprofits. Chelsea Brosterhous, owner of Chelsea's Digital Marketing & Ad Agency, will lead two sessions on digital marketing strategies and event promotion. Her sessions will focus on platform selection including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Google, along with Google Business Profile optimization and content creation strategies for rural businesses. Sara Irvine of Impressions Design & Marketing will present workshops on marketing frameworks and business makeovers.

Banking workshops will be presented by People's Bank officers Ralph Wallis and Victoria Miller, while Rod Duarte will lead a Spanish-language marketing session. Nonprofit organizations can attend sessions about United Way funding opportunities with Christine Hess, federal and foundation grants with Natalie Parker of Rural Grant Resources, and community event planning with Kim Sguera of Klamath Link.

Other sessions will cover building workplace culture with Chad Elbert of Rudius Quest Coaching, manager training with consultant Amanda Blodgett and networking strategies with Mary Hambleton of Soul Canyon Training & Development.

Early registration discounts are available for the expo. Individual workshops cost $25 each.

Klamath County Joins Dozens of Others on Sanctuary State Lawsuit

Klamath County has joined a dozen other Oregon counties in supporting a lawsuit filed by Marion County against the state of Oregon and the U.S. Department of Justice. The lawsuit seeks legal clarity on whether counties should follow state or federal law regarding immigration enforcement. Oregon's sanctuary law, established in 1987 and strengthened in 2021, restricts local resources from being used to enforce federal immigration laws.

The counties' legal challenge was prompted by administrative subpoenas from federal immigration authorities requesting information on individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are on parole. The counties argue that these subpoenas have created legal uncertainty, and they want a federal court to determine their obligations.

The other counties that have signed on in support of the lawsuit are Baker, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Linn, Malheur, Polk, Tillamook, and Union.

Oregon Missing Out on $48 Million for Rural Schools

A new report indicates that Oregon has missed out on $48 million in funding for rural schools and communities since the expiration of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act.

The act, first passed in 2000, was created to provide a stable source of funding for counties with large amounts of federal land, compensating for a decline in timber revenues that previously supported local schools and services. The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act expired because the U.S. House of Representatives failed to reauthorize it, despite the Senate having done so.

As a result, 30 Oregon counties are not receiving the funds they typically would. Instead, they have reverted to the older, less lucrative 1908 Act 25% payments, which are based on a rolling average of timber and grazing receipts. This has resulted in an estimated loss of around $47.2 million for Oregon counties.

The funds from the Secure Rural Schools Act were used for a variety of purposes, including schools, roads, wildfire prevention, and law enforcement. The loss of this funding is expected to have a significant impact on these rural communities.

Oregon Sees Hike in Gas Prices

Based on a recent GasBuddy survey of over 1,300 stations, the average price of gasoline in Oregon has increased by 22.1 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching $4.23/g on Monday. This price is 26.7 cents higher than a month ago and 54.7 cents higher than a year ag o.In contrast, the national average price for gasoline has dropped by 3.6 cents per gallon in the last week, settling at $3.12/g.

Nationally, prices are down 1.8 cents from a month ago and 2.8 cents from a year ago. The price discrepancy within Oregon is significant, with a difference of $1.78 per gallon between the cheapest station ($3.51/g) and the most expensive ($5.29/g) as of Sunday.

The recent surge in Oregon's gas prices is attributed to a major outage on the Olympic Pipeline, which transports fuel from Washington state refineries to the Portland area. Since Oregon has no refineries of its own, it is heavily reliant on this pipeline for its fuel supply. This disruption, combined with scheduled and unscheduled maintenance at refineries in Washington and California, has created tight supplies in the region and driven up wholesale prices. While fuel has reportedly started to flow through the pipeline again, experts anticipate prices will remain high for a bit longer. The switch to winter-blend fuel, which is cheaper to produce, may help bring some relief to drivers in the coming weeks.

Shorter Days and Longer Nights are Coming

Long summer days are officially behind us. The sun will set after 7 p.m. for the last time this year on September 25th. As we head into fall, the sunsets will continue to get earlier. The sun will set before 6 p.m. on October 29th, just before Halloween. Following the end of Daylight Saving Time on November 2nd, the sun will set before 5 p.m.

Days have been getting shorter in the northern hemisphere since the summer solstice on June 20th and 21st, when the Earth's northern half began to tilt away from the sun. However, the most noticeable change occurs in September and October as the rate of change in day length is most significant around the spring and fall equinoxes.

Klamath County lost approximately 85 minutes of daylight in August and is expected to lose about 91 minutes in September. This means we are losing a little over three minutes of daylight each day due to later sunrises and earlier sunsets.

High Pressure Brings Warming Trend

As the week begins, a significant shift in our weather pattern is underway. A building ridge of high pressure will bring a noticeable warming trend, especially for areas west of the Cascades. We can expect temperatures to rise by 5 to 10 degrees, bringing us back to or even a bit above our seasonal averages.

Mornings will also start to feel milder, with overnight lows west of the Cascades in the 50s. East of the mountains, temperatures will dip into the 40s and even some 30s tonight. While some areas in northern Klamath and Lake counties could approach freezing, light winds are expected to prevent the need for any advisories.

Today will likely be the warmest day as the ridge reaches its peak strength. There's a high chance (85-95%) of hitting 90 degrees in these areas. Mornings will be dry with low humidity. By Wednesday, the warmest temperatures will shift east of the Cascades as the system continues to move inland.

Klamath Tribes Speak Out Against Water Rights Abuse

The Klamath Tribes are reportedly pushing back against additional water being drawn for the Klamath Project, stating that the proposal to draw more water from Upper Klamath Lake will harm endangered fish species that are culturally significant to them. The tribes have long held senior water rights to the lake, which they say are necessary to protect their treaty rights to hunt, fish, trap, and gather.

A specific proposal from the Bureau of Reclamation would send up to 38,000 additional acre-feet of water to irrigators, an amount that the tribes argue would lower the lake's elevation and negatively impact the C'waam (Lost River sucker) and Koptu (shortnose sucker) fish populations. These fish, which are listed as endangered, have been a primary food source for the tribes for centuries, and their populations have continued to decline due to factors including decreased water levels and pollution.

The ongoing conflict is rooted in a complex history of disputes between the tribes, federal officials, and irrigators over water rights in a basin increasingly stressed by drought and climate change. Here is a sample of the podcast where Klamath Tribes Chairman William Ray, Jr. and Vice-Chair Marvin Garcia discuss the trampling of the water rights of the Tribes as they continue their fight for the survival of their sacred c’waam and koptu.

A Day of Remembrance and Community at Veteran's Park

Max's Mission, in partnership with other community organizations, hosted an Overdose Awareness Day event on September 6, at Veterans Memorial Park in Klamath Falls. The event was held to remember those lost to overdose and to provide vital resources to the community. The day featured a range of activities, including live music, free food, and a giveaway with prizes. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with local organizations offering support services, and free naloxone kits were distributed with training on how to use them. The event, which is the third annual of its kind in Klamath Falls, serves as a way to honor lives lost, support those currently struggling, and raise awareness about substance use and recovery in the Southern Oregon community. It is part of the larger International Overdose Awareness Day, which is observed globally on August 31.

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Oregon Job Layoffs on Pace with Great Recession

Oregon is currently experiencing a high rate of layoffs that is comparable to the pace of job cuts during the Great Recession, though the state's overall unemployment rate remains moderate. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of people laid off or discharged in Oregon has been on the rise.

While the state's unemployment rate was 5.0% in July 2025, which is higher than the national average, it is still significantly lower than the peak of 11.9% that Oregon experienced during the Great Recession in 2009. Despite the moderate overall unemployment rate, several sectors have been hit hard by job losses. In July 2025, the state's total nonfarm payrolls fell by 2,750 jobs, with the private sector losing 2,440. Sectors with the largest declines included Financial Activities, Education and Health Services, and Professional and Business Services. Manufacturing has also been a particularly weak sector, with companies like Intel announcing large-scale layoffs.

The situation in Oregon is a reflection of a national trend where, despite a seemingly healthy labor market with low unemployment, a growing number of layoffs are occurring. This has been attributed to factors such as slowing economic growth, a downturn in key industries, and corporate downsizing.

JPR Facing Budget Woes in Face of Fed Clawbacks

On early Thursday morning, the U.S. Senate approved a White House request to claw back $9 billion in federal funding, which included a $1.1 billion rescission for foreign aid and public broadcasting.

This action has put Southern Oregon Public Broadcasting (SOPB) and Jefferson Public Radio (JPR) in a precarious financial position. SOPB, which serves an area larger than the state of Maryland, could lose about $900,000, representing 37% of its planned budget for the next year. SOPB director Phil Meyer stated that the "worst-case scenario" for the station would be a hiring freeze and cuts to "individual initiatives, whether it’s local programming or our member magazine."

Similarly, Jefferson Public Radio, which broadcasts to a large region of Southern Oregon and Northern California, is set to lose over $500,000, or about 14% of its budget. JPR executive director Paul Westhelle warned that the cuts will "especially hit really hard on rural networks like JPR" and that the station, which is home to a major newsroom, would have to find ways to make up for the shortfall. Although JPR listeners donated about $100,000 more than usual in a recent donation drive, it still leaves a significant gap.

The move to cut funding, a rare legislative procedure known as a rescission, was spearheaded by President Trump, who has criticized public broadcasting for what he believes is a liberal bias. While critics of the cuts have warned of the potential effects on critical services like emergency alerts, rural and Indigenous community programming, child educational programming, and local news coverage, the measure passed with a 51-48 vote in the Senate.

Cooler Temps and Rain Allow Forest Authorities to Relax Rules

Recent cooler temperatures and rainfall have provided much-needed relief to Southern Oregon, prompting changes in fire danger levels and easing some fire restrictions. The Oregon Department of Forestry, as well as the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, have adjusted their fire danger ratings in various districts across the region, moving from "Extreme" or "High" to lower levels.

This shift in conditions has led to a rollback of some restrictions on public and industrial activities. For example, some areas have seen the reinstatement of campfires in designated campgrounds, and certain restrictions on the use of power-driven equipment have been relaxed.

The change is a welcome development for firefighters and residents alike, as it reduces the risk of new fire starts and allows for a return to a more normal level of outdoor activity. However, officials are still urging caution, as vegetation remains dry in many areas and the fire season is not yet over.

The public is reminded to check with local fire authorities for the most up-to-date information on restrictions before engaging in any activities that could spark a wildfire.

The Klamath Tribes Oppose Proposal
For More Water By BOR

The Klamath Tribes are opposing a new proposal by the Bureau of Reclamation to increase and extend water allocations for the Klamath Project. The proposal would provide an additional 38,000 acre-feet of water for irrigators. The Tribes contend this action would lower the water level in Upper Klamath Lake, which they believe would harm endangered fish, specifically the Lost River and shortnose suckers (known as C'waam and Koptu).

The Bureau's proposal is part of its Annual Operations Plan for the Klamath Project. The plan initially allocated 277,000 acre-feet of water and suggested an additional 53,000 acre-feet could come from deferred project supply. However, the Tribes assert that the new allocation would not come from this designated excess water and would instead reduce the lake's water level, adversely impacting native fish populations that have been in decline for decades due to drought and water pollution.

This conflict is the latest in a long-standing series of disputes over water rights in the Klamath Basin, which have been exacerbated by recurring drought conditions. The Bureau of Reclamation's decisions often involve balancing the needs of agriculture and the requirements of the Endangered Species Act to protect native fish. Both the Klamath Tribes and local irrigators have previously filed lawsuits and engaged in negotiations to secure their water interests.

Klamath County Tips It's Hat to Vietnam Vets

In September 2025, Klamath Falls held a ceremony that formally honored its Vietnam veterans, offering a much-needed public acknowledgment and a true "welcome home" to those who had faced indifference and hostility upon their return from the war. This significant event was a component of a larger, multi-year commemoration marking the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, aligning with Oregon's statewide endeavors to recognize its veterans.

The September 2025 Klamath County ceremony proved to be a deeply healing experience for many veterans. One Army veteran shared a powerful anecdote, recalling how he was told to remove his uniform at the airport when he returned from the war. He described this ceremony as the first time he had "felt truly honored in public," highlighting its profound emotional impact. During the event, honorees were presented with specially minted "Welcome Home" medals, customized to reflect their branch of service and years served. The ceremony drew a large crowd, with the venue packed with veterans, their family members, and community members who applauded as names were read and medals were received.

This collaborative effort was made possible by the Klamath County Veteran's Service Office and the Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA). Notably, this 2025 ceremony continued a positive trend, building on a similar successful event in September 2024 that honored 90 Vietnam veterans.

Beyond the local ceremony, Oregon has implemented several statewide initiatives to recognize its veterans. In February 2025, the Oregon legislature approved Senate Bill 596, establishing a new veterans' recognition registration plate program designed to honor both veterans and Gold Star families.

The 2025 Legislature also demonstrated its commitment by allocating nearly a million dollars to the Veteran Services Grant Program, which funds organizations offering free direct services to veterans. To enhance the visibility of veteran-related activities, the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) created a public event calendar to showcase and promote ceremonies and recognition events. Furthermore, Governor Tina Kotek designated September 7–13, 2025, as Oregon Veteran Suicide Prevention Awareness Week, aiming to shed light on the invisible wounds many veterans carry.

Collectively, this ceremony and the broader state initiatives represent a sustained and concerted effort to rectify the historical mistreatment of Vietnam veterans, ensuring their service and sacrifice are appropriately acknowledged and honored by both the public and the state.

Klamath Kids Invited to Go Running This Fall

Healthy Kids Running Series is a five-week running program for Klamath Falls children in Pre-K through 8th grade, offered in both the spring and fall. The program provides age-appropriate running events each week, including the 50 and 75-yard dashes, as well as the 1/4 mile, 1/2 mile, and 1-mile runs. Participants earn points based on their race finish each week.

The full registration fee covers all five weeks of the series and includes a race bib for each week, a runner shirt, a finisher medal, and any sponsor giveaways. Please note that registration is non-refundable and non-transferable. Early Bird registration is available online, but increases three weeks before the first race.

The program also features a Challenger Division, an adaptive 75-yard race specifically for children with disabilities or special needs. This division allows parents, siblings, and friends to join the runners on the course for support, and participants can use their own supportive devices like crutches, braces, or wheelchairs.

A makeup date is scheduled for October 26, 2025.

For those who cannot commit to the full series, single-day race registration is an option. It opens one hour before the start of each race and covers participation in a single race on that day. All single-day registrations must be completed on-site. Single-day racers have the option to upgrade to the full series. The same strict no-refund and no-transfer policy applies.

All participants will receive a medal on Week 5. Trophies will be awarded to the overall top boy and girl finishers in each of the following divisions: Kindergarten & 1st Grade, 2nd & 3rd Grade, 4th & 5th Grade, 6th to 8th Grade, and the Challenger Division.

You can share your running photos and connect with the community on Facebook @HealthyKidsRunning or Instagram @healthykidsrs. The program's motto is #GetUpandGo.

The Favell Museum is developing a permanent exhibit titled "Voices of the Klamath River Watershed." A special event was held on September 5, 2025, where the public was invited to a short presentation on the exhibit's development. This presentation was part of a larger event coinciding with the museum's annual Art Show and Sale.

The museum's project is a collaborative effort with partners and has received grant funding to help create the exhibit. The goal is to explore the role of water in the Klamath Basin, likely incorporating the history, culture, and perspectives of the indigenous tribes and the region's broader community. This initiative highlights the museum's commitment to both Native American artifacts and contemporary Western art, as it aims to tell the story of a vital natural resource through art and education.

Favell Museum Explores Realtionship
to Water in Klamath Basin

O.S.U. Eyes the Basin for Hemp Production

The Klamath Basin Research and Extension Center (KBREC) is a pivotal institution driving Oregon's extensive and innovative hemp studies. Functioning as a vital component of Oregon State University's (OSU) College of Agricultural Sciences and its Global Hemp Innovation Center, KBREC leads a broad, interdisciplinary research program. The research at KBREC encompasses various critical aspects of hemp, including agricultural production, where scientists conduct trials to identify new and superior hemp varieties suitable for the Klamath Basin's climate.

They also investigate methods to enhance efficiency in cultural management, integrated pest management, irrigation, and soil productivity. Given the significant role of water in the Klamath Basin, KBREC actively participates in studies examining how diverse water application techniques and water quality impact hemp crops. This includes trials to ascertain optimal irrigation levels and plant density for different hemp types.

Furthermore, the research aims to foster economic development by defining opportunities for hemp in the Western U.S., which involves developing a zero-waste processing system for the plant. This extends to exploring hemp's applications in new food, beverage, and bio-based industrial products such as construction materials, textiles, and packaging. KBREC operates within a larger network of research sites and collaborators, with OSU's Global Hemp Innovation Center in Corvallis partnering with faculty across 19 disciplines, other universities, federal agencies, and Native American tribes to advance the hemp industry.

Experts Say Oregon Facing Worst Drought in More than a Century

As of September 2025, Oregon is experiencing widespread drought conditions, with over half the state in a state of drought and an additional percentage being abnormally dry. The lack of precipitation has been particularly severe from April through August, a period that was the fourth driest in Oregon since 1895.

This has been compounded by warmer-than-normal temperatures, which caused an earlier snowmelt from the otherwise healthy snowpack, leading to record-low water levels in streams and rivers. The state is grappling with the consequences, including a heightened risk of wildfires.

In response to the worsening conditions, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued drought emergency declarations for several counties, including Union, Baker, Coos, Douglas, Lincoln, Morrow, and Wheeler. These declarations allow for expedited state assistance and water management tools to help residents and businesses cope with the water shortages.

After more than three decades, band is officially back for students in the Klamath County School District's South County schools.

A New Chapter for South County Music

The new band program kicked off in January 2025 with over 25 sixth-graders at Malin and Merrill elementary schools. Under the direction of George Izzett, the students quickly learned to play their instruments and performed a sold-out show in May at the Malin Broadway Theater. This fall, the program expanded to Lost River Jr/Sr High School, marking the first time the campus has had a band since the early 1990s when the program was cut due to budget reductions.

The program has already seen success. Currently, 23 seventh-graders are continuing in the program at Lost River, and a new class of sixth-graders has started at the elementary schools. A $4,000 donation from an annual fundraiser at Chicken and Cheers in Klamath Falls helped purchase new percussion equipment for the students, who had been practicing on tables.

A Community Investment

This is a long-term investment for the district, with a plan to gradually grow the program as each class of sixth-graders advances, building toward a full middle and high school band. According to Dr. Doris Ellison, the district's elementary curriculum director, the program is all about giving kids an opportunity to build skills, community, and pride. Lost River's principal, Jana Dunlea, confirmed that the community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with families excited to see students performing together again.

Band is Back for South County

Panda Express to Buy Portland Trail Blazers

The founders of Panda Express, Andrew and Peggy Cherng, are part of the new ownership group that has reached a formal agreement to purchase the Portland Trail Blazers. Their family office and investment firm, the Cherng Family Trust, has joined a group led by billionaire Tom Dundon, the owner of the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes. The sale, which still needs to be approved by the NBA Board of Governors, is reportedly valued at over $4 billion. The new owners have stated their intention to keep the team in Portland.

Moore Park Closed for Repairs

The ADA-accessible playground at Moore Park will be closed starting Monday, September 15, for warranty work on the surface. The closure is expected to last through the end of the week. This temporary closure only affects the ADA-accessible playground, and all other playgrounds and amenities at Moore Park will remain open.

Oct 1: Have a Cup of Coffee with a Cop

The Klamath Falls Police Department is hosting a "Coffee with a Cop" event on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The event will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at B.S. Coffee Co., located at 417 N Spring St.

This is a national initiative designed to bring community members and police officers together in a casual setting. The event has no formal agenda and is intended to facilitate open dialogue, allowing residents to ask questions, voice concerns, and get to know the officers who serve their community.

Community Baby Shower For Expectant Moms at the Fairgrounds

A community baby shower is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, at the Klamath County Fairgrounds in Linman Hall, located at 3551 S. 6th St., Klamath Falls, OR 97603.

The event will run from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and is a free resource fair designed to celebrate and support expectant parents, guardians, and families with children up to one year of age. Attendees can expect resource tables offering helpful information and support from various community partners, raffles for prizes including baby items like strollers, car seats, and high chairs, and opportunities to connect with other families and community organizations.

The event is hosted and sponsored by the Oregon Child Development Coalition, UCAN Healthy Families, Pregnancy Hope Center, Klamath Family Head Start, Healthy Families Klamath County, Cascade Health Alliance, Take Root, and Soroptimist International of Klamath Falls.

BLM Volunteer Work Day 9/27/25

The Bureau of Land Management’s Klamath Falls Field Office is hosting a volunteer workday to celebrate National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 27th, from 8 a.m. to noon. The event will take place at the Wood River Wetland, where volunteers will help remove invasive grasses and weeds from the native pollinator garden and trim brush along the paved trail.

Steven Jensen, BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner, noted that the abundant plant growth this year has led to an increase in weeds, invasive grass, and brush that are crowding out native pollinator plants and encroaching on the walking trail. He described the event as a great opportunity to help restore the area for both visitors and wildlife.

Volunteers are asked to meet at the Wood River Wetland parking lot off Modoc Point Road in Chiloquin at 8 a.m. The coordinates for the location are 42.5811, -121.9313. Participants should look for a large white event banner.

Attendees should bring sunscreen, water, snacks or lunch, a hat, leather gloves, eye protection, and sturdy shoes. Long sleeves and pants are also recommended. All necessary tools will be provided.

National Public Lands Day is the largest single-day volunteer effort for America’s public lands, offering a chance to explore, restore, and give back to outdoor spaces. To find other events, individuals can visit the National Public Lands Day website or contact their local BLM office.

OR Democrats Targets For Mailbox Bombs

On Thursday, September 11, three prominent Democratic leaders in the Oregon state Senate—Senate President Rob Wagner, Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama, and Senate President Pro Tem James Manning Jr.—received emailed bomb threats. The emails falsely claimed that explosive devices had been placed in their home mailboxes.

Oregon State Police responded to the threats, sending explosives technicians to all three locations. A thorough investigation determined the threats to be false, and no devices were found. The incident is part of a broader increase in concerns about political violence across the country, particularly following the recent assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. State police are working with the FBI to investigate the matter.

Oregon Business Rep in Jeopardy Over Wage Law

A report by the Oregon Capital Chronicle today stated that Oregon's business reputation has been negatively affected, partly due to a newly expanded prevailing wage law. The bill, which takes effect later this month, broadens the definition of "public works" to include off-site manufacturing and fabrication work for public projects, requiring businesses to pay the state's prevailing wage for this work.

Republicans, including Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, have warned that this change will drive manufacturing jobs out of the state. Business groups share these concerns, noting that Oregon already has a high cost of doing business and significant regulatory burdens, which makes it less competitive compared to states with lower taxes and fewer regulations.

They point to instances like Dutch Bros Coffee and Tektronix moving their headquarters out of state as evidence of this trend. Governor Tina Kotek has publicly stated her commitment to improving Oregon's business climate. Her administration recently signed a bill to expand economic opportunities for small businesses by prioritizing them in state procurement. However, critics argue that despite these efforts, the state's policies, including the new prevailing wage law, continue to create an unfavorable environment for businesses.

173rd To Conduct Night Exercises Next Week

The 173rd Fighter Wing at Kingsley Field will conduct routine night flying operations next week, from Monday, September 15, through Thursday, September 18. The flights, which are part of the training curriculum for F-15C student pilots, will occur between approximately 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

Much of the training will take place in the military operating airspace east of Lakeview, where pilots can fly without lights. However, community members in the Klamath Basin will likely hear the jets during takeoffs and landings. Takeoffs will occur after sundown, with the jets returning about an hour and a half later.

The training is essential to ensure pilots are proficient in night flying, a crucial skill for both homeland defense and contingency operations, according to Colonel Micah Lambert, the 173rd FW deputy commander. For any concerns, community members can contact the wing's public affairs office at 541-885-6677.

Kalamath River Renewal Corp Touts Benefits of River Restoration

The Klamath River Renewal Corporation (KRRC) is highlighting the positive impacts of the dam removal, which is nearing completion and represents the largest project of its kind in U.S. history. One of the primary benefits is the restoration of fish habitat, as the removal of the four dams reconnects over 400 miles of historic habitat for salmon and steelhead that had been blocked for a century.

This is expected to help the recovery of fish populations, including the spring Chinook salmon, which had seen a 98% decline in the basin. The project also aims to improve water quality by eliminating the large, shallow reservoirs that led to unnaturally warm water and toxic blue-green algae blooms. By restoring the river's natural flow, the project will increase dissolved oxygen levels and create a healthier environment for aquatic life.

Economically, the KRRC notes that dam removal is a more cost-effective option for power customers than upgrading the aging dams. Additionally, a restored fishery is expected to boost commercial and recreational fishing industries in Oregon and California. The project is also a significant victory for Indigenous tribes, as it helps restore a vital part of their heritage and way of life by un-flooding ancestral lands and cultural sites.

Ross Ragland To Celebrate National Arts in Education

Get ready to celebrate the arts! The Ross Ragland Theater is hosting a free kickoff event for National Arts in Education Week this Saturday, September 13, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

This is an all-ages event with various hands-on activities, including visual art, music, and drama. You can also enjoy free goodies like cookies, drinks, and stickers. Partner organizations will be joining the fun, and you can get information about upcoming fall classes and the importance of arts education.

Don't forget to RSVP for a chance to win a $50 scholarship.

Seventh Annual Butterfly Release This Saturday

The Heart of Hospice Foundation will host its seventh annual Butterfly Release event at Moore Park in Klamath Falls on Saturday, September 13, 2025. The free event, which runs from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, allows attendees to release a live butterfly in memory of a loved one.

The ceremony will include a reading of names, and the public is welcome to attend. If you wish to reserve a butterfly and have a loved one's name read aloud, you can call Bristol Hospice at 541-882-1636 to be added to the list.

Commanders Jazz Ensemble To Perform at Ragland

The Commanders Jazz Ensemble, from the US Air Force Band of the Golden West, will be performing a free concert in Klamath Falls on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

The event will be held at the Ross Ragland Theater from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The concert is open to the public, and you can expect an afternoon of music ranging from big band classics to original compositions. While the concert is free, it is recommended to reserve your tickets by visiting www.afbandconcerts.com.

BLM Trainsitions to Off-Season at Area Camp Grounds

The Bureau of Land Management's campgrounds in the Klamath Falls Field Office are open year-round, but both the Gerber Recreation Area and Topsy Campground are transitioning to off-season operations.

Starting on October 1, 2025, the Gerber Recreation Area will enter its off-season. During this time, camping is free, but no amenities will be provided. This means you won't have access to drinking water or trash collection, and there won't be a camp host on duty. Additionally, be aware that contractors began work on September 8, 2025, to replace the water system infrastructure, which could cause interruptions to the water service before it's officially shut down. The construction might also lead to temporary closures in some sections of the recreation area throughout the fall and spring.

Topsy Campground will begin its off-season on October 17, 2025. After this date, the gates will be closed to vehicles, but you can still access the campground by walking in. Like Gerber, camping is free, but there will be no water, trash, or camp host services available. As a reminder, if you're planning an off-season visit, you should come prepared for rustic conditions.

To ensure you have a safe experience and help prevent wildfires, please remember these critical safety measures. Always make sure your off-road vehicles have a properly functioning catalytic converter or an approved spark arrester. When building a campfire, only do so in authorized areas and always put it out completely. Use plenty of water and stir the coals until they are cool to the touch before you leave, even for a few minutes. Also, remember to dispose of any lit smoking materials appropriately. It is illegal to discharge fireworks or use incendiary ammunition or exploding targets on BLM lands. If you are towing a boat or trailer, double-check that your safety chains are properly secured so they don't drag on the ground. Finally, never park your vehicle over dead grass, and avoid driving through tall grass, as the heat from your vehicle can easily start a fire.

You can check current fire restrictions in the area by visiting the provided website. For more information, you can call the Klamath Falls Field Office at 541-883-6916.

Governor Orders Flags Lowered in Honor
of 9/11 and Charlie Kirk

Governor Tina Kotek has ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff on September 11, in a dual commemoration. The first is in observance of Patriot Day, a National Day of Service and Remembrance for the nearly 3,000 victims and first responders of the 2001 terrorist attacks. Separately, Kotek also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on September 14 to honor Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was fatally shot while speaking in Utah.

In a related but separate reflection, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has marked the fifth anniversary of the devastating 2020 Labor Day wildfires. The OEM's reflections honor the survivors and highlight the significant progress the state has made in emergency preparedness since the fires. Officials note that the 2020 fires exposed critical vulnerabilities in Oregon's response systems, prompting a major shift in how the state prepares for disasters. This has led to the creation of new agencies, such as the Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM), and investments in new technologies like a statewide alert system.

The state has also focused on building stronger relationships with local communities and better identifying vulnerable populations to ensure they have an evacuation plan. While recovery for many survivors is still ongoing, the state is more equipped to handle future emergencies due to these new systems and improved coordination.e. It's easy.

Northwest Sees Record Drought this Summer

The Northwest is experiencing a significant drought this summer, with nearly 80% of the region in a drought and more than half classified as severe or extreme, based on a July analysis and September data from the U.S. Drought Monitor at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The primary cause is a lack of spring rain.

According to Larry O’Neill, Oregon’s state climatologist, the state had its fourth-driest period between April and August since record keeping began in 1895, receiving only about half of its normal precipitation. Despite a wet winter and a robust snowpack that filled water reservoirs, O'Neill said that spring precipitation is crucial for wildfire prevention and for agricultural livestock production.

The spring and summer drought is considered "short-term" for most of Oregon and the Northwest, but it has been ongoing for over a year in some areas. In response to the conditions, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in several counties since July. These declarations provide assistance by allowing state agencies to expedite review processes and reduce fees for emergency permits, helping counties draw more water or temporarily transfer a water right. The drought has had a measurable impact on water systems. Streamflows in some Oregon rivers along the Coast Range reached record lows this summer, and more than 50% of NOAA's streamflow monitoring sites across the Northwest are below normal levels.

Rivers like the Siletz, Nehalem, Alsea, and Chetco, which rely heavily on spring rain, are being closely watched due to their low flows. The extreme drought conditions are most widespread in western Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana. The Washington Department of Ecology issued a drought emergency for the Yakima Basin in April, expanding it by June 5 to cover 19 watersheds across much of the state's north and central parts.

While NOAA scientists describe the overall situation in the West as "perilous" due to being compounded by past mega-droughts, conditions in the Northwest are not as severe as they were in 2021. In July 2021, nearly 60% of the West was in an extreme or exceptional drought, whereas currently about 13% of the Northwest is in those categories. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center forecasts an equal chance of above or below-normal precipitation for the Northwest this winter, with a slight possibility of it being above normal.

Oregon Dems Want Divorce From Fed Tax Code

Oregon state Democrats are considering a legislative move to "decouple" the state's tax code from recent federal changes to prevent a significant loss of revenue. Due to Oregon's "rolling reconnect" policy, the state's tax laws automatically conform to federal tax code changes unless the legislature takes action to stop them.

The federal changes, which include ending income taxes on overtime and tips, as well as new business deductions, are projected to create a substantial deficit for Oregon. State economists have warned that these changes could lead to a revenue loss of nearly $1 billion over the next two years, resulting in a budget hole of over $370 million in the current budget. This comes at a time when the state is also facing the potential loss of billions in federal funding for programs like Medicaid and food assistance due to broader federal policy changes.

Governor Tina Kotek has expressed concern, blaming the federal government for creating economic uncertainty for Oregon. In response to the potential revenue shortfall, Democrats are pushing to decouple, arguing it is necessary to protect funding for schools and other vital services. However, the proposal faces opposition from Republicans, who see decoupling as an effective tax increase on Oregonians. They argue that the state's budget challenges are homegrown and not a result of federal policy. They also contend that the federal tax cuts would benefit working-class and lower-middle-income households by putting more money in their pockets.

Oregon has decoupled from federal tax provisions before, most recently in 2018 to avoid a revenue loss from a federal deduction for "pass-through" businesses. This legislative debate highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining consistency with the federal tax code for simplicity and exercising state control to protect revenue and fund state services.

Oregon Increases O.H.P. Payments to Prevent Pull Out

Oregon's government will increase payments to insurers that manage the state's Medicaid program, known as the Oregon Health Plan, to prevent several companies from pulling out. The decision was made after coordinated care organizations (CCOs), which administer care for more than one million low-income Oregonians, expressed that they were losing "gobs of money" under their current contracts.

The state's initial budget had accounted for an average rate increase of just 3.4% for these organizations. However, the CCOs reported that this was not nearly enough to keep up with skyrocketing costs for things like drugs, payroll, and other services, which are climbing at a much higher rate across the country. In response to the CCOs' threats to leave, the Kotek administration first increased its offer to 6.8% and has now agreed to an average increase of 10.2%. Leaders of the coordinated care organizations have generally expressed gratitude for the state's revised offer.

A spokesperson for CareOregon, which serves over 500,000 members, called the new rates a "meaningful first step." The organization's finances have been "significantly affected by the tension between rapid, abnormal changes in the health care system and a rate development model that has struggled to keep pace with this evolving reality." This situation highlights a larger challenge for the state, as the rate hikes call into question the state's long-standing target of 3.4% for annual health care cost growth.

The Oregon Health Authority has stated that the rate increase is a "start, rather than an end," and that they will continue to work on how to revise the program to cut costs. The state is exploring options such as taking over payments for certain high-cost drugs, reducing reporting requirements, and taking responsibility for unexpectedly high behavioral health costs.

First Interstate Bank Gives Day of Service to Klamath Basin

Employees from the First Interstate Bank, the official bank of KCTV in Klamath Falls, participated in a companywide volunteer day in early September, closing the branch for the afternoon to serve with the United Way of the Klamath Basin.

This local effort was part of the bank's eighth annual Volunteer Day, a companywide initiative that encourages employees across its 14-state footprint to give back to their communities. First Interstate Bank closed all branch offices at noon on Wednesday, September 10, to allow its thousands of employees to participate in over 440 service projects.

The projects ranged from park cleanups and food bank support to outreach with various nonprofits. The bank's annual Volunteer Day is a cornerstone of its community engagement, reflecting a long-standing commitment to community service. While the physical branch was closed, clients were still able to access their accounts through ATMs, online banking, and the mobile app, with regular banking hours resuming the following day.

Bentz Says No More In-Person Town Halls

Cliff Bentz is a U.S. Congressman Cliff Bentz is shifting from in-person town halls to tele-town halls, citing what he calls disruptive behavior from the "anti-Trump 'gang,' 'Indivisible.'" He stated that these groups use "profane language and more to disrupt and intimidate" and that the in-person events were not productive for his constituents. Congressman Bentz's decision is based on his belief that the in-person town halls were being taken over by organized protestors from the Indivisible group. He said this created a forum for them to "spread misinformation, create a false sense of opposition, and drive away local people."

He feels that the tele-town hall format will allow him to learn what he can do "to make lives better" for his constituents without the disruptions. Indivisible is a progressive grassroots movement that formed in 2016 in response to the election of Donald Trump. The movement's goal is to peacefully and effectively resist the agenda of the new administration. Chapters of the group, like the Oregon District 2 (ORD2) Indivisible, have organized protests, attended town halls, and engaged in other forms of activism to hold elected officials accountable. The organization's website states that they aim to "strengthen democracy, healthcare for all, economic justice, climate justice, racial and gender justice and reproductive rights" and to "hold our elected officials accountable."

According to his official website, Cliff Bentz has two tele-town halls scheduled for September: one on Monday, September 8, and another on Wednesday, September 17. Both are scheduled to begin at 5:30 PM

Reschke Announces Candidacy for Re-Election

Representative E. Werner Reschke (R-Klamath Falls), announced yesterday that he will seek re-election to continue representing the people of Oregon House District 55, serving southern Deschutes and rural parts of Klamath County.

Reschke's campaign focused on principles of limited government, lower taxes, and fiscal accountability, as well as individual liberty. He has also highlighted his efforts in securing funding for significant projects in his district, including at Oregon Tech, Klamath Community College, and various healthcare and fire protection districts. He has also been a vocal advocate for parental rights in education and against drug decriminalization policies

Under Klamath Skies Hosts Final Event of 2025

Under Klamath Skies will have its final 2025 event on Thursday, September 18, at the Klamath County Museum from 6-8 PM. The event is a collaboration with Underground ART KF and will feature a variety of activities for all ages.Attendees can enjoy live music by ComicAusy at 6 PM and Racyne Parker at 7 PM.

The event will also include art exhibits, food vendors, museum walk-throughs, and complimentary downtown trolley rides. Both indoor and outdoor components will be part of the event. Admission to Under Klamath Skies is free, and the format is designed to be a casual, social gathering where people can come and go as they please. Seating will be available, and freewill donations are accepted to support the future efforts of the participating organizations.

ComicAusy is a one-man band from Klamath Falls who blends multiple genres, including oldies, folk, and blues, using a homemade kick drum suitcase and guitar. Racyne Parker, a singer-songwriter originally from Oregon and now based in Denver and Seattle, will perform her music, which combines country, folk, and Americana. She released a full-length album in February 2025 and has received recognition in various music contests.

Klamath Advocate Questions Detention Timeline in Oregon Homemade Bombs Casee

By: Phil W. Hudson

A local business owner is raising constitutional concerns about the prolonged federal detention of a man arrested on explosives charges in June. Jason Edward Lowery, 51, was arrested June 17 on federal charges of possessing and manufacturing explosive devices after authorities seized more than 200 homemade bombs from his residence and business, according to the Basin Inter-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team.

Klamath Falls resident and U.S. Army veteran Matthew Fairfield said he believes Lowery's detention violates constitutional due process protections.

"More than two months have passed, and the government has yet to provide any legal justification for holding him," Fairfield told Klamath Community Television. "This is not just a personal tragedy for Mr. Lowery. It is a grave threat to the rule of law in America."

Federal authorities obtained arrest and search warrants before taking Lowery into custody at his Avalon Street business, according to a BINET news release. The multi-agency operation also seized firearms, several ounces of suspected methamphetamine and evidence of drug distribution.

Lowery has been lodged at Jackson County Jail in Medford awaiting a federal court appearance, according to the June 18 release. Current jail records confirm Lowery's continuous detention since June 17 under federal hold status with charge code FED000.999. No bail amount was set, which is typical for federal detainers, according to the booking record listing him as inmate No. 00154808.

Under federal criminal procedure rules, detention hearings typically occur within three to five days of an initial court appearance, according to legal experts. However, defendants can remain in custody pending trial if a federal magistrate judge determines they pose a flight risk or danger to the community.

Fairfield, whose Cleveland-based Faircosa Foundation focuses on criminal justice reentry programs, said he has personal experience with incarceration issues after serving time in Ohio in 2010.

"If the government can arrest and detain someone indefinitely without explanation, then none of us are truly free," he said.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in the investigation along with state and local law enforcement agencies. Federal prosecutors in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon handle cases involving explosive devices. The investigation forced authorities to temporarily close Pershing Way at Avalon Street and evacuate nearby residents while hazardous materials were removed.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Lowery's case status.

By: Phil W. Hudson

Matthew Fairfield,

Klamath County Resident

Klamath County BOCC Meeting for September 9, 2025

by Jason Collins

On Tuesday afternoon, members of the Klamath County Board of Commissioners met to discuss bids, agreements, and new grant applications.

Led by commissioners Andy Nichols and Kelley Minty, the meeting began with public comments. Mr. Michael Stettler highlighted new voter roll data from the 2024 elections, prompting a heated response from another member of the public. The same attendee shared her concerns about labor and a rigged economy.

The board also recognized Dan Golden for his 35 years of service.

Next, the commissioners considered a bid for abatement and demolition of the HUB building on South 6th Street. The bid was received from the IRS Environmental of Portland, Inc., where, at an earlier meeting, the Board previously voted to proceed forward with demolition of the HUB building to support long-term Fairgrounds needs and increase the property's marketability. The bid is approved without any fiscal impact to the county.

Under agreements, the board approved an $18,000 domestic well assistance grant to a resident as part of ongoing drought relief efforts. On March 31 of that year, Governor Brown signed Executive Order 21-07 declaring a State of Drought Emergency in the County. The grant provides financial assistance to the owners of domestic wells located within Klamath County who experience challenges with their domestic wells due to the 2021 drought.

Commissioners also signed off on an amendment with OHSU to extend the county’s partnership with Klamath County Public Health on a rural residency program through June 30, 2026.

In other county business, commissioners approved final plats for two land projects:

Eleventh Addition to Sunset Village, Phase 2, creating 10 lots, and Land Partition 49-24, which divides county-owned property into two parcels.

The board also heard from Golden, who asked commissioners for support for the application for the Community Renewable Energy Grant Program. The program provides $12 million for renewable energy planning and construction grants. Both commissioners agreed to support the application.

Under grants, the board approved the Veterans Service Office to seek pass-through funding of $139,346.00 from the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs.

They also heard from Rachelle Escatel from Klamath County Emergency Management and advanced on an Oregon Emergency Management EMPG grant application, which will help cover staff salaries and preparedness work. This will require a 50/50 Match of $70,870 from Klamath County.

The meeting wrapped up without any commissioner reports.

Bentz Hosts First Tele-meeting

On Monday evening, U.S. Representative Cliff Bentz of Oregon's Second District held a telephonic town hall, his first since he announced that he would no longer be holding in-person events with constituents. Bentz stated that he made the decision because in-person town halls have become too "intimidating and threatening" and that participants are "far more interested in the spectacle as opposed to listening to me trying to explain and answer the questions." During the call, Bentz primarily discussed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" a roughly 1,100-page piece of legislation that he voted to approve.

The bill, which was signed into law on July 4, is a central part of President Trump's second-term agenda. It contains numerous provisions, including permanent extensions of the 2017 tax cuts, new tax cuts, and changes to various federal programs, including Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In response to concerns from constituents about the bill's impact on Medicaid, Bentz said that impending reductions to Medicaid and food assistance would not affect those who meet "exemptions." He stated that as long as people are working, they will be "fine." He also said that the new requirements for both Medicaid and food assistance, which require 80 hours of monthly work, school, or community service, are aimed at preventing abuse of the system by "able-bodied people." The "One Big Beautiful Bill" has a wide-ranging impact, and it has been a subject of significant debate.

According to reports, the bill extends several tax cuts, phases out certain clean energy tax credits, and promotes fossil fuels. It also includes an increase in defense spending and funding for border enforcement. Regarding Medicaid, the bill reduces spending by an estimated $1.4 trillion, and it makes changes to eligibility. It also requires states to share in the cost of SNAP allotments and has been described as enacting the "largest-ever cuts to basic needs programs in U.S. history."

Oregon Tops Nation for Gas Prices

According to AAA, Oregon's average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline has risen to approximately $4.14, a 16-cent increase from the previous week. This is the highest gas price the state has seen this year and the largest week-over-week jump in the country.

In Portland, prices are even higher, at $4.30 per gallon. This also makes Oregon one of the states with the highest gas prices in the nation. The primary reasons for the recent price hike are a combination of refinery issues in Puget Sound and California, along with a reported outage on the Olympic Pipeline, which transports fuel from Washington refineries to Portland.

AAA's public affairs director, Marie Dodds, stated that these planned and unplanned maintenance issues have made gasoline supplies on the West Coast very tight. As a result, wholesale prices have gone up, and those increases are being passed on to consumers at the pump. A spokesperson from Chevron acknowledged the pipeline outage and its impact on customers in the Pacific Northwest, noting that some of their stations in Oregon and Washington may experience fuel shortages. However, Dodds said that gas prices are expected to ease in the coming days as the region transitions to a less expensive winter-blend gas, which Oregon can begin selling on September 15.

Oregon State Announces Layoffs

The University of Oregon announced it is conducting an additional round of layoffs to address a $25-30 million budget shortfall for the current school year. This brings the total number of positions eliminated this year to 176, which includes 117 filled positions and 59 vacant ones.

In a letter to staff and faculty, President Karl Scholz and Provost Christopher P. Long explained that they have identified $29.2 million in recurring savings, with the majority coming from labor cost reductions. The cuts include 20 filled career faculty positions and 14 unfilled tenure-track positions, but no filled tenure-track positions or degree programs have been eliminated.

The university leadership noted that about half of the layoffs occurred earlier this year and that the budget for pro-tem faculty and student workers would also be reduced, meaning fewer new graduate employees would be hired in the future. The decision to make these cuts has been in the works since the spring, when the full extent of the budget gap became clear. According to the university, the financial challenges are a result of multiple factors, including changes to federal funding, limited state support, and a shortfall in non-resident student enrollment.

Klamath County Museum NEEDS YOU

The Klamath County Museum is looking for "spooky" actors to participate in its annual "Night at the Cemetery" event. The casting call is for volunteer actors to portray "Linkville legends" at the historic Linkville Cemetery.

Actors will read a script to visitors as part of a Halloween-themed tour. The events are scheduled for October 10th and 11th. For more information, you can contact the Klamath County Museum. Available October 10 and 11 event tickets will go on sale in late September.

Undersea Earthquake Off Oregon Coast

epicenter-of-m5.8-earthquake-off-the-coast-of-oregon-on-september-9-2025.webp

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Oregon at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Monday night, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake, which had a depth of about 8.5 miles, was followed by two aftershocks measuring 3.3 and 4.9 magnitude.

The earthquake was centered about 102 miles west-southwest of Port Orford and was not expected to cause a tsunami. The USGS identified the initial event as a "potential mainshock of an earthquake sequence," indicating that more aftershocks were likely. According to a USGS spokesperson, earthquakes of magnitude 5 or greater are not uncommon in the area off the coast of Oregon and Northern California.

First Snow Of Season Could Be Days Away

It may be chilly today but the first snowfall of the season can arrive quite early in our region. According to National Weather Service climate records, Boise's earliest measurable snow was on October 10, 2008, although the average date is closer to November 23.

In McCall, snow has arrived as early as September 25, 1958, with an average first snow around November 7. Eastern Oregon towns have also seen early snow. The record for Baker City is October 7, 1961, and Burns saw flakes on September 29, 1971. In Klamath Falls, the average start of the snowy period is around October 30.

Arsonist Arrested in Klamath Falls

A man from Klamath Falls, Shawn Alan Busick, 60, was arrested on Sunday, September 7, in connection with a brush fire that burned approximately 1.75 acres along Highway 97. The fire, which occurred in the Stewart Lennox area, was confirmed as an incident of arson by Klamath County Fire District 4 Fire Chief Nate Markee.

Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the fire near milepost 278 on US-97. Witnesses at the scene identified Busick as the suspect, and he was arrested and lodged at the Klamath County Jail. The highway remained open while fire crews from KCFD4, KCFD1, and the Oregon Department of Forestry worked to extinguish the fire. As of Monday morning, the fire was fully extinguished.

Bly Mountain Arsonist Apprehended

A Klamath County man, Henry J. Garza, 37, was arrested on Saturday, September 6, in connection with six fires on Bly Mountain that were reported on Friday, September 5. The Klamath County Sheriff's Office (KCSO) stated that a witness saw the suspect intentionally starting multiple fires using gasoline and a flare gun. Evidence, including a gasoline container and burned materials, was collected at the scene.

Four of the fires were on Garza's property, and two were on a victim's land. Garza is facing charges of first-degree arson, coercion, reckless endangering, and menacing. The KCSO, along with Klamath County Fire District 5 and the Oregon Department of Forestry, responded to the fires. Sheriff Shane Mitchell mentioned that law enforcement had suspected arson in other recent fires in the Bly Mountain area and had considered using trail cameras to investigate. The case is still under investigation.

Henley Burglers Foiled By PD

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) was called to Henley High School to investigate a burglary that happened overnight. Surveillance video showed two male suspects entering a detached classroom and stealing 20 Google Chromebooks and a lifelike training doll. The stolen items were valued at about $6,500.

Working with the Oregon State Police (OSP), the KCSO identified one of the suspects as Brandon James Brown. Over the weekend, deputies recovered 18 of the stolen Chromebooks.

On Monday, September 8, deputies located and arrested Brown, who was wearing the same clothes seen in the surveillance footage. He was lodged at the Klamath County Jail and is facing charges of Burglary II, Theft I, Criminal Trespassing II, and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle. The KCSO thanked the OSP troopers and deputies for their quick work in identifying the suspect and recovering the stolen property.

Kotek Calls For Earthquake Readiness

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued an executive order requiring that all new state-owned buildings larger than 10,000 square feet meet the highest seismic safety standards. The order also mandates that existing state buildings be upgraded to current life safety standards by 2060.

This action is a response to the looming threat of a major Cascadia subduction zone earthquake, which scientists predict could have a magnitude of 8 or 9. Governor Kotek emphasized the need for state emergency responders to be able to operate from seismically sound structures after such a disaster. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services will be responsible for creating a plan to carry out the order.

The plan will prioritize buildings identified in Oregon's "continuity of operations plans," large office buildings, and structures used by first responders. The order builds upon previous efforts to promote earthquake preparedness, such as the Great Oregon Shake-Out drill championed by the late Senate President Peter Courtney.

Kotek Eyes Order for Covid Vaccines

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is considering a standing order to ensure that people can access COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies, even in the face of recent federal guideline changes. This comes after the FDA approved a new COVID-19 vaccine formulation for the 2025-2026 season with a narrower scope, limiting its use to certain age groups and those with high-risk medical conditions.

The federal government has not yet adopted a protocol for this new formulation, which has caused confusion and created barriers to vaccine access, as pharmacies may require a prescription. Some other states, like Washington, have already taken action by issuing standing orders that allow pharmacists to administer the vaccine to a wider population without a prescription.

The Oregon Board of Pharmacy has expressed concern about the delayed federal guidance and the resulting confusion. Governor Kotek and the Oregon Health Authority are reviewing state statutes and rules to determine the best course of action, and a standing order is one of the mechanisms being considered. This effort is also part of the "Western Health Alliance," a partnership with California and Washington to coordinate public health guidance in response to federal changes.

Nail Spring Ranch in Bonanza Sells to Defence Firm

Nail Spring Ranch, a nearly 2,000-acre property with 1,417 deeded acres in the Langell Valley, was sold to Becklin Holdings, parent company of Grants Pass-based ECS Composites, which designs high-performance protective cases for the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients. The property was previously listed for $12.5 million.

The ranch was established in 1893 by pioneer William Lee Nail about 45 minutes east of Klamath Falls near Bonanza. It will be used for product testing, training and client events in the defense and outdoor sectors. Langell Valley in the Klamath Basin has a high desert landscape with sagebrush plains, juniper ravines and alpine meadows. The ranch’s rolling ranges and cattle pastures are suitable for field testing and demonstrations while its proximity to Crater Lake National Park, Lava Beds National Monument and Upper Klamath Lake will support other outdoor activities.

The property includes a 8,722 square-foot guest lodge for up to 24 guests, a private hangar, airstrip and wellness facility. The ranch hosts Modern Day Sniper (MDS), a premier shooting instruction company led by former Marine Corps Scout Sniper Caylen Wojcik. MDS serves law enforcement agencies, law-abiding citizens, special operations units, hunters, firearms enthusiasts, and competitors through its Precision Rifle Shooting courses.

The sale underscores the ranch’s value as a historic property in a region known for its natural and agricultural heritage.

The Local Stories We are Following for You

Arsonist Arrested in Klamath Falls

A man from Klamath Falls, Shawn Alan Busick, 60, was arrested on Sunday, September 7, in connection with a brush fire that burned approximately 1.75 acres along Highway 97. The fire, which occurred in the Stewart Lennox area, was confirmed as an incident of arson by Klamath County Fire District 4 Fire Chief Nate Markee.

Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the fire near milepost 278 on US-97. Witnesses at the scene identified Busick as the suspect, and he was arrested and lodged at the Klamath County Jail. The highway remained open while fire crews from KCFD4, KCFD1, and the Oregon Department of Forestry worked to extinguish the fire. As of Monday morning, the fire was fully extinguished.

Bly Mountain Arsonist Apprehended

A Klamath County man, Henry J. Garza, 37, was arrested on Saturday, September 6, in connection with six fires on Bly Mountain that were reported on Friday, September 5. The Klamath County Sheriff's Office (KCSO) stated that a witness saw the suspect intentionally starting multiple fires using gasoline and a flare gun. Evidence, including a gasoline container and burned materials, was collected at the scene.

Four of the fires were on Garza's property, and two were on a victim's land. Garza is facing charges of first-degree arson, coercion, reckless endangering, and menacing. The KCSO, along with Klamath County Fire District 5 and the Oregon Department of Forestry, responded to the fires. Sheriff Shane Mitchell mentioned that law enforcement had suspected arson in other recent fires in the Bly Mountain area and had considered using trail cameras to investigate. The case is still under investigation.

Henley Burglers Foiled By PD

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) was called to Henley High School to investigate a burglary that happened overnight. Surveillance video showed two male suspects entering a detached classroom and stealing 20 Google Chromebooks and a lifelike training doll. The stolen items were valued at about $6,500.

Working with the Oregon State Police (OSP), the KCSO identified one of the suspects as Brandon James Brown. Over the weekend, deputies recovered 18 of the stolen Chromebooks.

On Monday, September 8, deputies located and arrested Brown, who was wearing the same clothes seen in the surveillance footage. He was lodged at the Klamath County Jail and is facing charges of Burglary II, Theft I, Criminal Trespassing II, and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle. The KCSO thanked the OSP troopers and deputies for their quick work in identifying the suspect and recovering the stolen property.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued an executive order requiring that all new state-owned buildings larger than 10,000 square feet meet the highest seismic safety standards. The order also mandates that existing state buildings be upgraded to current life safety standards by 2060.

This action is a response to the looming threat of a major Cascadia subduction zone earthquake, which scientists predict could have a magnitude of 8 or 9. Governor Kotek emphasized the need for state emergency responders to be able to operate from seismically sound structures after such a disaster. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services will be responsible for creating a plan to carry out the order.

The plan will prioritize buildings identified in Oregon's "continuity of operations plans," large office buildings, and structures used by first responders. The order builds upon previous efforts to promote earthquake preparedness, such as the Great Oregon Shake-Out drill championed by the late Senate President Peter Courtney.

Kotek Calls For Earthquake Readiness

Kotek Eyes Order for Covid Vaccines

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is considering a standing order to ensure that people can access COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies, even in the face of recent federal guideline changes. This comes after the FDA approved a new COVID-19 vaccine formulation for the 2025-2026 season with a narrower scope, limiting its use to certain age groups and those with high-risk medical conditions.

The federal government has not yet adopted a protocol for this new formulation, which has caused confusion and created barriers to vaccine access, as pharmacies may require a prescription. Some other states, like Washington, have already taken action by issuing standing orders that allow pharmacists to administer the vaccine to a wider population without a prescription.

The Oregon Board of Pharmacy has expressed concern about the delayed federal guidance and the resulting confusion. Governor Kotek and the Oregon Health Authority are reviewing state statutes and rules to determine the best course of action, and a standing order is one of the mechanisms being considered. This effort is also part of the "Western Health Alliance," a partnership with California and Washington to coordinate public health guidance in response to federal changes.

Nail Spring Ranch in Bonanza Sells to Defence Firm

Nail Spring Ranch, a nearly 2,000-acre property with 1,417 deeded acres in the Langell Valley, was sold to Becklin Holdings, parent company of Grants Pass-based ECS Composites, which designs high-performance protective cases for the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients. The property was previously listed for $12.5 million.

The ranch was established in 1893 by pioneer William Lee Nail about 45 minutes east of Klamath Falls near Bonanza. It will be used for product testing, training and client events in the defense and outdoor sectors. Langell Valley in the Klamath Basin has a high desert landscape with sagebrush plains, juniper ravines and alpine meadows. The ranch’s rolling ranges and cattle pastures are suitable for field testing and demonstrations while its proximity to Crater Lake National Park, Lava Beds National Monument and Upper Klamath Lake will support other outdoor activities.

The property includes a 8,722 square-foot guest lodge for up to 24 guests, a private hangar, airstrip and wellness facility. The ranch hosts Modern Day Sniper (MDS), a premier shooting instruction company led by former Marine Corps Scout Sniper Caylen Wojcik. MDS serves law enforcement agencies, law-abiding citizens, special operations units, hunters, firearms enthusiasts, and competitors through its Precision Rifle Shooting courses.

The sale underscores the ranch’s value as a historic property in a region known for its natural and agricultural heritage.

The Local Stories We are Following for You

Arsonist Arrested in Klamath Falls

A man from Klamath Falls, Shawn Alan Busick, 60, was arrested on Sunday, September 7, in connection with a brush fire that burned approximately 1.75 acres along Highway 97. The fire, which occurred in the Stewart Lennox area, was confirmed as an incident of arson by Klamath County Fire District 4 Fire Chief Nate Markee.

Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the fire near milepost 278 on US-97. Witnesses at the scene identified Busick as the suspect, and he was arrested and lodged at the Klamath County Jail. The highway remained open while fire crews from KCFD4, KCFD1, and the Oregon Department of Forestry worked to extinguish the fire. As of Monday morning, the fire was fully extinguished.

Bly Mountain Arsonist Apprehended

A Klamath County man, Henry J. Garza, 37, was arrested on Saturday, September 6, in connection with six fires on Bly Mountain that were reported on Friday, September 5. The Klamath County Sheriff's Office (KCSO) stated that a witness saw the suspect intentionally starting multiple fires using gasoline and a flare gun. Evidence, including a gasoline container and burned materials, was collected at the scene.

Four of the fires were on Garza's property, and two were on a victim's land. Garza is facing charges of first-degree arson, coercion, reckless endangering, and menacing. The KCSO, along with Klamath County Fire District 5 and the Oregon Department of Forestry, responded to the fires. Sheriff Shane Mitchell mentioned that law enforcement had suspected arson in other recent fires in the Bly Mountain area and had considered using trail cameras to investigate. The case is still under investigation.

Henley Burglers Foiled By PD

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) was called to Henley High School to investigate a burglary that happened overnight. Surveillance video showed two male suspects entering a detached classroom and stealing 20 Google Chromebooks and a lifelike training doll. The stolen items were valued at about $6,500.

Working with the Oregon State Police (OSP), the KCSO identified one of the suspects as Brandon James Brown. Over the weekend, deputies recovered 18 of the stolen Chromebooks.

On Monday, September 8, deputies located and arrested Brown, who was wearing the same clothes seen in the surveillance footage. He was lodged at the Klamath County Jail and is facing charges of Burglary II, Theft I, Criminal Trespassing II, and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle. The KCSO thanked the OSP troopers and deputies for their quick work in identifying the suspect and recovering the stolen property.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has issued an executive order requiring that all new state-owned buildings larger than 10,000 square feet meet the highest seismic safety standards. The order also mandates that existing state buildings be upgraded to current life safety standards by 2060.

This action is a response to the looming threat of a major Cascadia subduction zone earthquake, which scientists predict could have a magnitude of 8 or 9. Governor Kotek emphasized the need for state emergency responders to be able to operate from seismically sound structures after such a disaster. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services will be responsible for creating a plan to carry out the order.

The plan will prioritize buildings identified in Oregon's "continuity of operations plans," large office buildings, and structures used by first responders. The order builds upon previous efforts to promote earthquake preparedness, such as the Great Oregon Shake-Out drill championed by the late Senate President Peter Courtney.

Kotek Calls For Earthquake Readiness

Kotek Eyes Order for Covid Vaccines

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is considering a standing order to ensure that people can access COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies, even in the face of recent federal guideline changes. This comes after the FDA approved a new COVID-19 vaccine formulation for the 2025-2026 season with a narrower scope, limiting its use to certain age groups and those with high-risk medical conditions.

The federal government has not yet adopted a protocol for this new formulation, which has caused confusion and created barriers to vaccine access, as pharmacies may require a prescription. Some other states, like Washington, have already taken action by issuing standing orders that allow pharmacists to administer the vaccine to a wider population without a prescription.

The Oregon Board of Pharmacy has expressed concern about the delayed federal guidance and the resulting confusion. Governor Kotek and the Oregon Health Authority are reviewing state statutes and rules to determine the best course of action, and a standing order is one of the mechanisms being considered. This effort is also part of the "Western Health Alliance," a partnership with California and Washington to coordinate public health guidance in response to federal changes.

Nail Spring Ranch in Bonanza Sells to Defence Firm

Nail Spring Ranch, a nearly 2,000-acre property with 1,417 deeded acres in the Langell Valley, was sold to Becklin Holdings, parent company of Grants Pass-based ECS Composites, which designs high-performance protective cases for the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients. The property was previously listed for $12.5 million.

The ranch was established in 1893 by pioneer William Lee Nail about 45 minutes east of Klamath Falls near Bonanza. It will be used for product testing, training and client events in the defense and outdoor sectors. Langell Valley in the Klamath Basin has a high desert landscape with sagebrush plains, juniper ravines and alpine meadows. The ranch’s rolling ranges and cattle pastures are suitable for field testing and demonstrations while its proximity to Crater Lake National Park, Lava Beds National Monument and Upper Klamath Lake will support other outdoor activities.

The property includes a 8,722 square-foot guest lodge for up to 24 guests, a private hangar, airstrip and wellness facility. The ranch hosts Modern Day Sniper (MDS), a premier shooting instruction company led by former Marine Corps Scout Sniper Caylen Wojcik. MDS serves law enforcement agencies, law-abiding citizens, special operations units, hunters, firearms enthusiasts, and competitors through its Precision Rifle Shooting courses.

The sale underscores the ranch’s value as a historic property in a region known for its natural and agricultural heritage.

A lightning-caused wildfire named the Big Hole Fire is burning approximately three miles north of Highway 31, near the Lake-Klamath County line. The fire started on September 5 and has burned 54.5 acres. Firefighters have achieved 50% containment. All fire lines held overnight and a hose lay is now in place around the entire perimeter. Crews are mopping up and mitigating spotting potential and snag hazards. There is a concern for potential containment issues due to thunderstorms producing gusty winds. The expected containment date is September 9.

Big Hole Fire 50% Contained

Lakeview Cancels Game Agaist Henley Due to Inexperience

In a surprising move, Lakeview High's football season opener against Henley was canceled because of safety concerns for the Lakeview team. Lake County School superintendent Michael Carter made the decision, citing the team’s small and inexperienced roster.With only 23 players, 15 of whom are freshmen, Carter felt it would have been both unsafe and unfair for the young team to face a strong opponent like Henley.

He also noted that the Lakeview team wasn't sufficiently prepared for the game, as they were late starting practices in pads. He worried that a lopsided loss could have been a blow to the students' morale. The cancellation was a proactive measure to prevent potential injuries. Carter referenced another team in the same conference that had to cancel games last season due to a high number of player injuries.

The Henley Hornets, who were ranked second in the state at the time, were left without a tune-up game. It is hoped that the Lakeview team will be ready for their next scheduled game.

E-vehicle Rebate is Baaack

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has reopened its Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, an initiative that provides rebates, not tax credits, for Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits, and government agencies who purchase or lease electric vehicles.

The program, which aims to reduce vehicle emissions and encourage the adoption of electric cars, offers two types of rebates. The Standard Rebate is available to all Oregon residents, businesses, and non-profits and offers up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new electric vehicle with an MSRP under $50,000. However, due to limited funding, the Standard Rebate will be temporarily suspended after today, September 8, 2025.

Purchases or leases made on or after September 9, 2025, will not be eligible. Applicants who buy or lease within the eligible timeframe have six months to apply, but all approved applications will be placed on a waiting list to be paid in the spring of 2026. The Charge Ahead Rebate is available to low- to moderate-income households and offers up to $7,500 for a new electric vehicle and $5,000 for a used one.

This income-based rebate will remain available to eligible applicants. To qualify for a rebate, vehicles must be purchased or leased from a certified vehicle dealer and registered in Oregon for at least 24 months.

Oregon Declares Rent Increase at 10%

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has announced that the maximum allowable rent increase for 2025 is 10%. This is the same rate that has been in effect since July 2023. Oregon law requires the DAS Office of Economic Analysis to calculate and publish the maximum annual rent increase by September 30 each year. The calculation is based on a specific formula: the lesser of 10% or 7% plus the 12-month average change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (West Region). This rent increase limit applies to residential rental units that are 15 years or older. Landlords are only permitted to issue one rent increase within any 12-month period.

The Local Stories We are Following for You

A lightning-caused wildfire named the Big Hole Fire is burning approximately three miles north of Highway 31, near the Lake-Klamath County line. The fire started on September 5 and has burned 54.5 acres. Firefighters have achieved 50% containment. All fire lines held overnight and a hose lay is now in place around the entire perimeter. Crews are mopping up and mitigating spotting potential and snag hazards. There is a concern for potential containment issues due to thunderstorms producing gusty winds. The expected containment date is September 9.

Big Hole Fire 50% Contained

Lakeview Cancels Game Agaist Henley Due to Inexperience

In a surprising move, Lakeview High's football season opener against Henley was canceled because of safety concerns for the Lakeview team. Lake County School superintendent Michael Carter made the decision, citing the team’s small and inexperienced roster.With only 23 players, 15 of whom are freshmen, Carter felt it would have been both unsafe and unfair for the young team to face a strong opponent like Henley.

He also noted that the Lakeview team wasn't sufficiently prepared for the game, as they were late starting practices in pads. He worried that a lopsided loss could have been a blow to the students' morale. The cancellation was a proactive measure to prevent potential injuries. Carter referenced another team in the same conference that had to cancel games last season due to a high number of player injuries.

The Henley Hornets, who were ranked second in the state at the time, were left without a tune-up game. It is hoped that the Lakeview team will be ready for their next scheduled game.

E-vehicle Rebate is Baaack

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has reopened its Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, an initiative that provides rebates, not tax credits, for Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits, and government agencies who purchase or lease electric vehicles.

The program, which aims to reduce vehicle emissions and encourage the adoption of electric cars, offers two types of rebates. The Standard Rebate is available to all Oregon residents, businesses, and non-profits and offers up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new electric vehicle with an MSRP under $50,000. However, due to limited funding, the Standard Rebate will be temporarily suspended after today, September 8, 2025.

Purchases or leases made on or after September 9, 2025, will not be eligible. Applicants who buy or lease within the eligible timeframe have six months to apply, but all approved applications will be placed on a waiting list to be paid in the spring of 2026. The Charge Ahead Rebate is available to low- to moderate-income households and offers up to $7,500 for a new electric vehicle and $5,000 for a used one.

This income-based rebate will remain available to eligible applicants. To qualify for a rebate, vehicles must be purchased or leased from a certified vehicle dealer and registered in Oregon for at least 24 months.

Oregon Declares Rent Increase at 10%

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has announced that the maximum allowable rent increase for 2025 is 10%. This is the same rate that has been in effect since July 2023. Oregon law requires the DAS Office of Economic Analysis to calculate and publish the maximum annual rent increase by September 30 each year. The calculation is based on a specific formula: the lesser of 10% or 7% plus the 12-month average change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (West Region). This rent increase limit applies to residential rental units that are 15 years or older. Landlords are only permitted to issue one rent increase within any 12-month period.

The Local Stories We are Following for You

A lightning-caused wildfire named the Big Hole Fire is burning approximately three miles north of Highway 31, near the Lake-Klamath County line. The fire started on September 5 and has burned 54.5 acres. Firefighters have achieved 50% containment. All fire lines held overnight and a hose lay is now in place around the entire perimeter. Crews are mopping up and mitigating spotting potential and snag hazards. There is a concern for potential containment issues due to thunderstorms producing gusty winds. The expected containment date is September 9.

Big Hole Fire 50% Contained

Lakeview Cancels Game Agaist Henley Due to Inexperience

In a surprising move, Lakeview High's football season opener against Henley was canceled because of safety concerns for the Lakeview team. Lake County School superintendent Michael Carter made the decision, citing the team’s small and inexperienced roster.With only 23 players, 15 of whom are freshmen, Carter felt it would have been both unsafe and unfair for the young team to face a strong opponent like Henley.

He also noted that the Lakeview team wasn't sufficiently prepared for the game, as they were late starting practices in pads. He worried that a lopsided loss could have been a blow to the students' morale. The cancellation was a proactive measure to prevent potential injuries. Carter referenced another team in the same conference that had to cancel games last season due to a high number of player injuries.

The Henley Hornets, who were ranked second in the state at the time, were left without a tune-up game. It is hoped that the Lakeview team will be ready for their next scheduled game.

E-vehicle Rebate is Baaack

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has reopened its Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, an initiative that provides rebates, not tax credits, for Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits, and government agencies who purchase or lease electric vehicles.

The program, which aims to reduce vehicle emissions and encourage the adoption of electric cars, offers two types of rebates. The Standard Rebate is available to all Oregon residents, businesses, and non-profits and offers up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new electric vehicle with an MSRP under $50,000. However, due to limited funding, the Standard Rebate will be temporarily suspended after today, September 8, 2025.

Purchases or leases made on or after September 9, 2025, will not be eligible. Applicants who buy or lease within the eligible timeframe have six months to apply, but all approved applications will be placed on a waiting list to be paid in the spring of 2026. The Charge Ahead Rebate is available to low- to moderate-income households and offers up to $7,500 for a new electric vehicle and $5,000 for a used one.

This income-based rebate will remain available to eligible applicants. To qualify for a rebate, vehicles must be purchased or leased from a certified vehicle dealer and registered in Oregon for at least 24 months.

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has announced that the maximum allowable rent increase for 2025 is 10%. This is the same rate that has been in effect since July 2023. Oregon law requires the DAS Office of Economic Analysis to calculate and publish the maximum annual rent increase by September 30 each year. The calculation is based on a specific formula: the lesser of 10% or 7% plus the 12-month average change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (West Region). This rent increase limit applies to residential rental units that are 15 years or older. Landlords are only permitted to issue one rent increase within any 12-month period.

Oregon Declares Rent Increase at 10%

Winter Predicted to be Warm and Wet

The Old Farmer's Almanac is predicting a mild winter for the Pacific Northwest, with overall warmer-than-usual temperatures and below-average precipitation and snow. The western half of Oregon is predicted to have below-average snowfall and precipitation, with the coldest periods expected in late November, early December, and early February. The most significant snowfall in the west is also anticipated in early February.

Eastern Oregon is expected to see "slightly above normal" temperatures and below-average snowfall, with the snowiest months coming in late January, early February, and late March. The almanac's forecast for much of the U.S. is a "mild winter" with lower precipitation and extended dry stretches.

Diamond Gem Fest fest Rocks Tulelake Fair Grounds

The Diamond Gems Fest is a new, three-day music festival held in partnership with the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair and the non-profit "Tiny, Mighty, Strong." The event took place from September 4-6, 2025, during the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair, which ran from September 4-7, 2025.

The festival featured 12 live performances across various genres, including hip hop, which is consistent with Afroman being a headliner. While the search results don't provide specific attendance numbers for Afroman's performance, they do indicate that the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair itself is a major event with a large attendance. The user's statement that the event was a "success" with "high turnout" is supported by the context of the fair's popularity and the general information about the festival.

The proceeds from the festival benefit "Tiny, Mighty, Strong," an organization that supports underserved youth in communities in Northern California and Southern Oregon.The inaugural Diamond Gems Fest took place from September 4-6, 2025, at the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair. The three-day event was a new music festival held in partnership with the Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair and the non-profit organization Tiny, Mighty, Strong.

The festival featured 12 live performances and proceeds from the event went to benefit Tiny, Mighty, Strong's mission to support underserved youth in the communities of Dorris, Macdoel, Malin, Merrill, Newell, and Tulelake. While specific attendance numbers for the headliner Afroman are not available, the event was part of the popular Tulelake-Butte Valley Fair, which ran from September 4-7, 2025.

Klamath County Offers Two Grants For Economic Growth

Klamath County has announced two grant programs to promote economic growth and tourism: the Economic Development Grant and the Tourism Grant. The Economic Development Grant program is designed to help local organizations and businesses with startup or expansion projects that create jobs, foster business growth, and contribute to the county's economic future. Funding for this program comes from the Oregon State Lottery Fund.

The Tourism Grant program is intended for projects that enhance, expand, and promote the visitor industry in the county. It is funded by the countywide transient room tax. The program seeks innovative ideas for events, activities, and infrastructure projects that will attract tourists, with a particular emphasis on initiatives that take place during the shoulder season (October through May).

Applications for both grants are currently open and will be accepted until September 30, 2025. A mandatory grant orientation class for all applicants is scheduled for September 12, 2025.

Economic Development Grant

Purpose: To assist local organizations and businesses with startup or expansion projects that create jobs, foster business growth, and contribute to the county's economic future.
Funding: Provided by the Oregon State Lottery Fund.
Eligibility: Eligible applicants include local government entities, port districts, federally recognized Tribes, non-profit entities, and for-profit entities.
Match Requirement: A minimum 30% cash match of the grant request is required.

Tourism Grant

Purpose: To fund projects that enhance, expand, and promote the visitor industry in the county. Projects should aim to increase visitation, particularly during the "shoulder season" (October through May).
Funding: Provided by the countywide transient room tax.
Match Requirement: A minimum 30% cash match is required for any grant request of $3,000 or more. Grant requests under $3,000 do not require a cash match.for any grant request of $3,000 or more. Grant requests under $3,000 do not require a cash match.

Oregon Could See A Blood Moon This Weeekend

Oregon stargazers are in for a treat as September's full moon will feature a total lunar eclipse, a phenomenon known as a blood moon. The September 2025 full moon, also known as the harvest moon, will appear with a reddish hue as it undergoes a total lunar eclipse between Sept. 7-8.

The blood moon will be visible from the ground, weather permitting, so Oregonians won't need any special equipment to see it. September's full moon and blood moon will occur simultaneously between Sept. 7-8.The sun will set in Oregon at approximately 7:37 p.m. Pacific Time, and the moon will rise at approximately 7:42 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7, accordingly September's full moon will occur during a total lunar eclipse, making it a blood moon.

During a total lunar eclipse, the entire moon moves fully into the Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra, completely blocking it from the sun. The moon's reddish appearance comes from sunlight that passes through Earth’s atmosphere and reaches the moon’s surface, according to NASA.

September 2025's full moon is named the harvest moon or corn moon. The name "blood moon" comes from the moon's reddish appearance as it passes into Earth's shadow. The harvest moon's name has cultural and spiritual relevance, signifying the end of the growing season and a successful harvest, according to Almanac.com. Harvest moons align with the autumnal equinox and are not always in September. They also were known for rising just after sunset for several days in a row, providing farmers with longer periods of light during the early evening, and giving them more time to harvest crops.

The National Weather Service forecast calls for cloudy skies across much of Oregon through Sept. 7. The National Weather Service forecast calls for cloudy skies across much of Oregon through Sept. 7.Cloudy skies are forecast across much of Oregon through Sept. 7, according to the National Weather Service.There will be a 45-72% chance of cloud cover in the Willamette Valley and southern Oregon, and parts of eastern Oregon will see a 33-57% chance of cloud cover. The Oregon Coast will be the most cloudy with an 87-97% chance of cloud cover.

OIT Says Summer Camp Was a Hit

Oregon Tech announced another successful year for its educational summer youth camps, which concluded for the season. The camps, organized by the Office of Educational Partnership and Outreach (EPO), included a variety of programs focused on STEM fields. Among the offerings were LEGO Camps for students in first through sixth grade, designed to foster creativity and teamwork using LEGO Education Spike kits. For the first time, these camps were also held in Chiloquin.

The university also collaborated with other Oregon colleges for the NW Cyber Camp, a program for high school students that aimed to raise awareness of cybersecurity careers. A free, four-day Geomatics Summer Camp, sponsored by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), introduced high schoolers to surveying, drones, and mapping. Additionally, the College of Health, Arts, and Sciences hosted a new MedStars Klamath Falls camp in collaboration with Cascades East Area Health Education Center and Oregon Health and Science University to help high school students explore healthcare careers. Overall, the summer programming supported by the EPO provided educational opportunities for about 300 K-12 students.

Klamath County officials approve a federal grant application despite ongoing lawsuit

Klamath County officials have approved a federal grant application amid an ongoing lawsuit against the county's so-called "sanctuary" status. This approval comes at a time when federal funding for jurisdictions with sanctuary policies is in question. The approved grant is for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Title III Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. These funds will be used to reimburse Klamath County agencies, including the Klamath County Sheriff's Office for search and rescue operations and various fire defense boards for fire-related projects.

The decision to approve the grant application comes as Klamath County is listed by the federal government as a "sanctuary" jurisdiction, a designation that could put its federal funding in jeopardy. The lawsuit in question is a broader challenge to Oregon's sanctuary laws, with Oregon's Attorney General leading a lawsuit against the Trump administration to unlock federal funds for crime victim programs that were being withheld due to the state's sanctuary policies. Klamath County and other jurisdictions in Oregon are grappling with the tension between state sanctuary laws and federal demands for cooperation on immigration enforcement.

Critic of Mail-In Voting Bill Says Chances of Passing Unlikely

A Republican-backed initiative to ban Oregon's mail-in voting is gaining momentum, according to a chief petitioner, but opponents have voiced doubts about its success. The initiative would need to gather a substantial number of signatures to qualify for the ballot. The initiative, known as Initiative Petition 37, aims to replace Oregon's current vote-by-mail system with in-person voting. Supporters of the initiative claim that mail-in voting is susceptible to fraud and that the current system needs to be reformed to increase election security.

The chief petitioner, a Republican political consultant, has stated the initiative has collected at least 25,000 signatures since July 25, but needs more than 156,000 verified signatures by July 2, 2026, to get on the November 2026 ballot. Opponents of the initiative, including Oregon's Secretary of State, argue that the state's vote-by-mail system is secure and has a proven track record of accurate and fair elections. A state review found a very low rate of voter fraud convictions, stating that no election has been seriously threatened by it.

They also point out that the current system is convenient and helps increase voter participation, especially for rural and elderly voters. The Democratic Party, as well as the executive director of the National Vote at Home Institute, have expressed skepticism about the "momentum" of the initiative, with some opponents suggesting the effort is part of a broader national campaign to destabilize the electoral system.

Reschke says ODOT Tax Hike is Bad for Oregon families.

On Monday, the Oregon House of Representatives passed an amended transportation bill, House Bill 3991, with a vote of 36-12, sending it to the Senate. Representative E. Werner Reschke (R-Klamath Falls), a vocal opponent of the original transportation bill, provided his "6-cents" on the new version. This proposal from Governor Tina Kotek is a scaled-back response to an Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) budget shortfall that could lead to significant layoffs.

Reschke and other Republicans have consistently argued that the state should re-purpose existing funds and hold ODOT accountable for its spending rather than imposing new taxes on Oregonians. However, the amended bill includes several tax increases: a 6-cent gas tax hike, a doubling of the state payroll tax to 0.2% for two years, increased vehicle registration and titling fees, and a new $30 annual fee for electric vehicles. Reschke has previously stated that these, combined with other taxes, would be a "massive tax increase" for Oregon families. He and other Republicans argue that the new taxes would be a financial burden on Oregonians already facing a high cost of living.

KDFD 1 Back in Court for 2020 Death

A wrongful death lawsuit against Klamath County Fire District 1, filed by the family of Teresa Vaughn, is going to trial, with expert witnesses testifying on the first day. The lawsuit stems from an incident on December 26, 2020, where two paramedics from the district allegedly failed to provide necessary medical aid to Vaughn, who was experiencing severe respiratory distress due to COVID-19.

The family's attorney alleges that the paramedics did not take vital signs, assess Vaughn's condition, or bring medical equipment into her apartment. Instead, they reportedly asked Vaughn's partner to drive her to the hospital. Vaughn suffered a cardiac event on the way and died shortly after. The lawsuit alleges wrongful death, gross negligence, and civil rights violations. A previous trial on this matter resulted in a hung jury, and the family's lawyer stated they would try the case again.

Klamath PD Arrests Youth for Ponderosa Middle School Threat

The Klamath Falls Police Department took a juvenile into custody after reports of a threat were made towards Pondersa Jr. High, according to a Facebook post. On Thursday, around 5 p.m., police responded to a reported threat of violence at Ponderosa Jr High through a social media platform. With quick actions made by school officials and law enforcement, the situation was quickly addressed.

The responsible juvenile was identified and taken into custody. Police say there is no reason to believe there is any ongoing danger to students, staff, or the public. Police are taking extra precautionary steps, with additional law enforcement being present at the school.

The Klamath Falls Police Department and the City School District take all threats to school safety seriously and will continue working together to ensure the safety of students and staff. The investigation is currently ongoing, and if you have any information, please contact the Klamath Falls Police Department at 541-883-5336.

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The Local Stories We Are Following For You for October 5, 2025

Trump Sends 300 California Guard to Portland

2025 Had Less Acreage Burn in Wildfires

The Local Stories We Are Following For You for October 5, 2025

Trump Sends 300 California Guard to Portland

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UPDATE: Oregon Goes to Court Over National Guard Troops

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Chiloquin Third-Graders Trade Pencils for Pumpkins in Annual Garden Harvest

For Chiloquin Elementary School third-graders, Wednesday's classroom was the dirt. Instead of books and desks, their lesson involved digging, pulling, and harvesting a bounty of cucumbers, potatoes, carrots, corn, and pumpkins straight from the soil.

ODOT Faces Staffing Shortages this Winter

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Klamath Falls Woman Arrested in Dunsmuir with Enough Fentanyl for 19,450 Lethal Doses

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Spencer Creek Closed Early to Protect Spawning Fall Salmon

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Oregon Renames 91 Derogatory Named Places

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First Salmon to Cross Keno Dam

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ODFW Waterfowl Hunting Workshop Coming to Klamath Falls

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Sky Lakes Medical Center Launches Mobile Health Clinic to Serve Rural Communities

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Oregon Wildland Fire Fighter Release from Fed Custody

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Progress on Township Fire

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Oregon First in Nation as Most Accessible

Klamath County Board of Commissioners Business Meeting

(Sept. 23, 2025)

by Jason Collins

White-Nose Syndrome Detected in Oregon Bats for First Time

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KWUA To Host 18th Annual Harvest Tour

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The Local Stories We Are Following For You
for October 5, 2025

The Local Stories We Are Following For You
for October 5, 2025

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National Guard to Portland

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By: Phil W. Hudson

Congressman Bentz Discusses Legislative Priorities, Town Hall Format Changes in Southern Oregon Visit
By: Phil W. Hudson

Oregon Pools Resources
to Help JeldWen Layoffs

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A Rural College Access Champion

9th Circuit Upholds Dismissal of
Covid Testing Case in Oregon

Klamath Shows Strong Support as Oregon Women Veterans Prepare for Statewide Conference
By: Phil W. Hudson

Oregon Police Work to Identify
1946 Homicide Victim

$2M Will Fraud Case Heads to Trial in Klamath County
By: Phil W. Hudson

Army Veteran Joins Klamath Falls Police Department
By: Phil W. Hudson

Klamath County Scores $715,000 Grant for Library Community Courtyard
By: Phil W. Hudson

Rural Business Expo Scheduled for Sept 24
By: Phil W. Hudson

The Klamath Tribes Oppose Proposal
For More Water By BOR

Favell Museum Explores Realtionship
to Water in Klamath Basin

Governor Orders Flags Lowered in Honor
of 9/11 and Charlie Kirk