The latest and most comprehensive coverage of local News, Sports, Business, and Community News stories in the Klamath Basin, Southern Oregon and around the state of Oregon from Wynne Broadcasting’s KFLS News/Talk 1450AM / 102.5FM, The Herald and News, and BasinLife.com, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call 541-882-6476.
Thursday, August 1, 2024
Klamath Basin Weather
Poor Air Quality Alert Today, 8/3/24
Fire Watch in effect all day Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024
Today
Widespread haze and smoke throughout the day, increasing clouds, hot with a high near 99 degrees. Calm winds becoming west 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. Overnight a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11pm, overnight low around 67. Northwest wind 5 to 9 mph.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
The 102nd Annual Klamath County Fair IS Here! Rodeo events, concerts, booths and exhibits, carnival ridess and more!
The 2024 Klamath County Fair promises good times for the whole community, with more free programming, bigger performances and a junior livestock auction that is expected to surpass last year’s $1.7 million sales record.
Running from Thursday morning through Sunday evening, this year’s county fair schedule is packed with fun for all ages.
Admission is free before 3 p.m. each day and free all day Sunday. Youth ages 12 and under are free.
Gates will open to concessions and free outdoor shows at noon, preceded by junior livestock shows starting at 8 a.m.
With the county fair comes the annual junior livestock shows and auction. Through 4-H and FFA programs, local youth bring their homegrown livestock to strut their stuff before going to auction for local bidders.
Klamath County 4-H Coordinator Traci Reed said that although large livestock entries are down by a few, bidders can still expect plenty of impressive animals up for grabs at potentially lower prices.
This year will present 95 small animal entries, Reed said, as compared to only 35 last year.
Reed said they hope to bring in anther record-breaking year for the local ag youth.
Every day of the county fair offers a variety of free, family- and youth-friendly events and activities.
Stop by the carnival ticket booth to climb aboard one of an array of popular rides any time between 4 and 10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday.
Or, for a steadier ride, saddle up for free youth pony rides Thursday through Saturday from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Kids’ Zone.
And don’t miss out on the nightly Foam Party at the Family Fun Stage, Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
For the music lovers of Klamath County, the 2024 lineup won’t disappoint with performances by artists from across the continent. Catch the Ashland-based five-piece party band Saucy at the Fox Shade Bar stage on Thursday for any of their three scheduled performances. If you’ve worn out your dancing shoes, take a break from the tunes and add a touch of magic to your fair experience with Magician Jeff Martin on the Family Fun stage during any day of the fair.
Headline entertainers include:
Thursday, Aug. 1
- Yung Gravy, John Hancock Event Center, doors open 6:30 p.m., general admission $39, party zone $49
Friday, Aug. 2
- Insanity Fest Thrill Show, John Hancock Event Center, doors open 6 p.m., youth tickets $10, adults $20
- Pecos and the Rooftops, John Hancock Event Center, doors open 6:30 p.m., general admission $20, party zone $25
Saturday, Aug. 3
Billy Currington, John Hancock Event Center, doors open 6:30 p.m., general admission $47, party zone $57
A shooting that took place near Klamath Union High School at the Modoc Field Bridge overlooking the canal, on Tuesday afternoon wounded a parent who was shot at a youth soccer camp.
Initially Klamath 9-1-1 Communications District received a report
of a shooting that occurred at Modoc Field across from Klamath Union High School. The initial report was a man had been shot by another man wearing a face mask, and the shooter had left in a grey sedan towards the downtown area. Law enforcement officials from the Klamath Falls Police Department,
Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police responded immediately to the scene. They
located the victim, a man who had been shot and lifesaving measures were immediately administered to the
shooting victim until they were relieved by medical personnel from the Klamath County Fire District.
The victim was transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center and later to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend,
Oregon and is in critical condition.
Local law enforcement began an extensive search for the suspect vehicle to identify and locate the
person responsible for this shooting. The Klamath County Major Crime Team was activated, and the
investigation is ongoing.
The suspect vehicle was found approximately two hours later in the Pilot Travel
Center parking lot located at 3817 Hwy 97 North in Klamath Falls. The vehicle was unoccupied and after
an extensive search of the area, the shooting suspect was not located.
A person of interest in this case did arrive while law enforcement was still on scene, and that person cooperated with investigators.
Law enforcement officials continued following up on all available leads throughout the night and a
suspect had been developed as a result. The suspect has been identified as 44 years old Andrew Wyatt
Gregory of Klamath Falls. His whereabouts are still unknown, and we are requesting the community’s
assistance in finding Gregory so he can be held accountable for his actions. Gregory should be
considered armed and dangerous. If you see him or know his whereabouts, please do not approach him
and immediately call 9-1-1.
The Klamath County Major Crime Team consists of detectives from the Klamath Falls Police Department,
Oregon State Police, and the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office. The Klamath County District Attorney’s
Office and Klamath Community Corrections also provide support to the team.
If any members of the community have additional information regarding this investigation, you are encouraged to call the Klamath Falls Police Department at (541) 883-5336 and contact the lead detective, Det. Witmer. If you want to remain anonymous, you can call our anonymous Tip Line at (541) 883-5334
The status of the victim, parent of a city school district student, was unknown as of Wednesday afternoon.
Dispatch reports show Klamath Falls Police Department responded to a call that came into dispatch at 2:55 p.m., reported as an “assault.”
The unnamed victim of the shooting was transported to the hospital, KFCSD reported.
State, county and city law enforcement agencies scoured the area in an effort to locate the suspect’s vehicle.
The vehicle was discovered at the Pilot Travel Center on Highway 97 North, according to statements from law enforcement.
Officers surrounded the travel center and neighboring businesses for multiple hours. Northbound vehicles along Highway 97 were pulled over just south of the Pilot Travel Center in search of the unidentified suspect.
No arrests had been made in Klamath County as of Wednesday afternoon.
KFPD Captain Rob Reynolds said the suspect has been identified and will be made public Wednesday evening. Reynolds also provided an update on the victim and said, “The victim was transported to Bend.”
The victim, Reynolds said, remains in intensive care. “They’re still with us,” the captain confirmed.
A statement from the agency on Facebook states that the suspect remains at large.
“At this time, the suspect is not in custody,” KFPD’s statement reads. “We have reason to believe there is no threat to the public.”
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call KFPD Detective Brandon Witmer at 541-883-5336.
In another incident on Tuesday morning (July 30, 2024) just after 4:00am, Klamath County Sheriff’s Office deputies were alerted to a report that a 47-year-old Chiloquin man was intentionally shot by another man in a remote area near Bray Mill and Kirk Road (NE of Chiloquin, Oregon) while they were cutting firewood.
The suspect was last seen by the victim and a witness running into the woods and firing a handgun as they drove away to seek medical help. The victim was transported to the hospital and treated for a single gunshot wound (non-life threatening).
Deputies, assisted by members of the Klamath County Major Crime Team, attempted to locate the suspect throughout the day without success. The suspect was identified as being Travis Crosby (age 46).
On Wednesday morning, (July 31, 2024) deputies located the suspect at his residence in the 36000 block of Agency Lake Road. After taunting the deputies and climbing onto the roof, Travis Crosby eventually climbed down off of the roof and was taken into custody without further incident.
A search warrant was served on the residence and the firearm suspected of being used in the crime was located in a hidden area of the home.
In Custody: Travis Clayton Crosby Age 46
Lodged in the Klamath County Detention Center on the below listed charges:
- Attempted Murder
- Assault First Degree
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Menacing (2 counts)
- Pointing a Firearm at Another
Crosby is being held on No Bail.
In still another alarming incident this week, a Klamath Falls man is in custody after allegedly striking and injuring a 15-year-old victim with a shotgun early Wednesday morning.
Malacky Lee Rodgers, 20, was arrested just after 1 a.m. Wednesday morning following an altercation during which Rodgers allegedly shot the minor 15-year-old.
Authorities said the victim was not shot but was struck with the but of the shotgun. Court documents from law enforcement reported the victim “feared for his life.”
According to the Wednesday morning arrest log, the Oregon State Police arrested Malacky Lee Rodgers, 20, of Klamath Falls around 1 a.m. near Altamont Avenue and Route 39 near where the incident occurred.
Rodgers is charged with second-degree assault (Class B felony), unlawful use of weapon (Class C felony), menacing (Class A misdemeanor) and parole violation. Rodgers’ bail is set at $115,000.
The Board of Klamath County Commissioners denied multiple requests from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office on various issues on Tuesday, seeking instead to have further discussions and find other solutions.
Substituting for Klamath County Sheriff Chris Kaber, during a commissioners meeting, Sheriff’s Deputy Lieutenant Steve Lewis presented two motions that were unanimously opposed.
First was on the matter of the Sheriff’s Office request to enter into an agreement with Carter-Jones Collection Service for facilitating the collection proceedings for livestock fees and fines 90 days past due. The fiscal impact of the contract was listed to be undetermined, however, Carter-Jones would retain a 45 percent commission rate on all assigned accounts.
The lieutenant explained that since KCSO has taken over the responsibility of the local animal control, the number of dog versus livestock hearings has significantly increased, to where currently 19 individuals owe nearly $59,000 in assessed restitution with 14 people having never made a single payment.
Commissioner Derrick DeGroot immediately said his vote was no and cited his reason as protecting the citizens “from subsidizing the cost of lost revenues” from the 45 percent commission rate.
The motion was voted no by all three members of the commission with plans made to hold a work session at a later date to find a better solution.
The second matter that was presented by the lieutenant on behalf of KCSO, was to provide law enforcement services to the Bureau of Land Management on BLM lands. The contract would provide KCSO with $60,000 of potential revenues for providing the patrol services based on the number of hours worked.
Having said he wants his views to be transparent, Commissioner Dave Henslee asked Lieutenant Lewis if it is felt by KCSO that BLM chooses to not hire more of their own law enforcement officers and instead elects to rely on KCSO for services. Lewis responded that he doesn’t know what the staffing criteria is for BLM.
Henslee said his frustration stems from having heard multiple complaints from Klamath County residents about the lack of police response in rural areas.
DeGroot added that other existing contracts held by KCSO haven’t been fulfilled, such as Student Resource Officers, and that funds had to be returned to school districts because the hours and responsibilities weren’t met due to KCSO staffing.
The motion failed by two opposed votes made by Henslee and DeGroot.
In previous years, KCSO has been permitted by the commission to enter into similar agreements with BLM including one approved during a meeting in August of last year that is set to expire on September 30, 2024. KCSO is currently under a similar patrol service arrangement with the Department of Forestry.
On another matter, the Board of Klamath County Commissioners continues to support those with failing domestic wells by entering into an agreement with the city of Klamath Falls for a water-fill station.
The Middle Fork fire located in the northwest corner of Crater Lake National Park is now over 715 acres and still just 2% contained.
Firefighters completed line work on the western side of the fire limiting potential fire spread towards the Rogue-Siskiyou National Forest.
With lines already established to the south to protect historic buildings and infrastructure, crews are using trail systems to get all the way around the fire.
The park remains open, but visitors should be cautious, as fire personnel are still in the area.
Crews continue to use diverse strategies to battle the Diamond Complex, burning on the Umpqua National Forest. The complex is mapped at 5,188 acres and is 9% contained.
Firefighters have mopped up several of the smaller fires within the complex, approaching each fire differently to use their limited resources most effectively.
The Umpqua National Forest increased public use restrictions to Level 3 across all ranger districts Monday, as drying conditions and fire activity continue in the area.
Officials say the relatively milder weather we’ve been having has helped fire behavior remain moderate.
Fire staff will be on hand at a special Q&A session at Diamond Lake Resort, Wednesday at noon, to answer any questions from the community.
Klamath National Forest fire crews continue to monitor the Shelly Fire, which is at 92% containment and 15,520 acres.
Visitors and communities near the fire will see smoke from within the fire’s perimeter as interior islands of unburnt vegetation slowly burn. Currently there is no threat for the fire to burn outside of the established containment line.
Fire resources are actively monitoring the interior burning. Two firefighting aircraft are assigned to fly reconnaissance of the fire and are available for water drops if needed.
Other resources assigned to the Shelly Fire include heavy equipment, water tenders, hand crews, resource advisers, pack strings, and medical support. These folks are busy patrolling fire lines, mopping up, doing backhaul, and conducting suppression repair work on Forest Service-managed lands, primarily on the west side of the fire. Resources from the Siskiyou Unit of CAL FIRE also remain engaged in similar efforts on the east side of the fire.
A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response team is assigned to assess the effects of the Shelly Fire on the landscape and to develop a plan to stabilize the area to reduce risks to human life and safety, property, and natural and cultural resources from erosion and flooding.
The vehicle of a man reported missing earlier this week was found near Crescent Lake, and no sight of the man.
Paul Flores, 40, of Stockton, Calif., was reported missing by family on Tuesday, according to a news release from Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.
Missing person posters on Facebook say Flores had been on a trip to Washington when his car broke down on Highway 97 near Cresecent Lake. Flores had been traveling to Moses Lake, Wash., to visit his son, nieces and two grandchildren.
“After keeping in touch with family (and) friends (that) his vehicle broke down in Crescent Lake, he was going to walk and pinged a location to a friend so he wouldn’t get lost,” the missing poster statement reads.
Flores was said to have sent another ping near the Pilot Truck Stop in Chemult.
Flores’ niece said her uncle stopped responding after informing family that he was getting a ride back to his vehicle.
The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office said the vehicle, a silver 2007 Toyota Highlander with California plates, was found on a forest road north of Chemult.
Flores is described as 5 feet tall, 210 pounds, has full tattoo sleeves and may be wearing glasses. He was last seen wearing red shorts, a white shirt and Nike shoes.
Anyone with any information as to the whereabouts of Flores is asked to contact KCSO immediately at (541) 883-5130.
The removal of four Klamath River dams, the largest dam removal in U.S. history, is on track to be completed by November and reportedly ahead of schedule.
The breaching of the John C. Boyle dam on Tuesday marked a historic achievement as the four dams on the Klamath River, including Copco 1, Copco 2, and Iron Gate, near completion. The $450 million project strives to restore the river and its ecosystem to its pre-dam condition with a focus on returning salmon, Chinook and coho.
If the reintroduction of salmon is successful, then it will provide once again an ancestral food source to the tribal communities that relied on the annual fish returns in the river as one of their first foods.
The Klamath Tribes voiced the need for the dam removals for decades, and now that the project is nearing completion, Klamath tribal leadership and employees in the Natural Resources and Ambodat Departments are working with various state and federal agencies and the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, which is overseeing the project, to assist in the many restoration projects such as revegetation, wetland restoration and the reintroduction of salmon.
Revegetation work along the river was halted this summer but will resume in the fall. The work to revegetate the banks of the river will involve more than 17 billion seeds of native plants that were collected and propagated in preparation for the multi-year seeding project. Restoration work is also underway for the Upper Klamath Lake, Sprague and Williamson rivers, and Upper Klamath Lake tributaries, which will benefit the endangered c’waam and koptu suckers. The Klamath Tribes are directly involved with many of the restoration projects on both the Sprague and Williamson Rivers.
Tiny rolling robots, mechanical arms and other technology kits will be featured on Saturday, Aug. 17, as the Klamath Falls Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol is hosting an open house on from 10am- 1pm at Crater Lake – Klamath Regional Airport.
The event will be held in the Terminal Building. The Airport is at 3000 Airport Way, Klamath Falls, OR 97603.
Civil Air Patrol pilots will be available to talk with current pilots about opportunities for flying in the Civil Air Patrol, such as search and rescue, and orientation flights for cadets.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Kits available through Civil Air Patrol will be available for teachers and students to review and use, including Spheros, indoor quadcopters, robotic arm, rocketry, etc. All STEM Kits are available for teachers for free through the Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Membership program.
Members of the Civil Air Patrol will be available to talk with youth ages 12-18 and parents about opportunities for leadership, STEM, aerospace, and emergency services. Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that has a strong youth program. It also involves adults in Aerospace Education, piloting and search and rescue. The Klamath Falls Squadron meets weekly at the airport on Tuesday nights.
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
Ed Young has been named the new deputy regional director of business services for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s California-Great Basin Region, an area that is headquartered in Klamath Falls and includes the Klamath and Tulelake basins.
Young will oversee five divisions: financial management, information management, program and budget, acquisition services and office of communications.
Young joined Reclamation in 2014 as a regional budget analyst. He became the assistant budget officer in 2017 and was promoted to the region’s budget officer in 2018. In 2022, he became the region’s program and budget manager where he was responsible for developing integrated long-term and short-term regional program plans, strategies and budgets. Prior to joining Reclamation, Young served as a budget analyst for the Department of Defense at Travis Air Force Base and in Arlington, Virginia. Young served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008.
In 2008, the last year the figures for the BOR’s Klamath Project site was updated, the area irrigated spanned 191,592 acres with an estimated crop value of $155,562,795.
The Klamath Project covers territory in Klamath County in Oregon and Siskiyou and Modoc counties in California. Communities in the project area include Klamath Falls, Merrill, Bonanza and Malin in Oregon and Tulelake in California. The Clear Lake Dam and Reservoir, Tule Lake and Lower Klamath Lake are in far northern California while the Oregon locations include Gerber Dam and Reservoir, Upper Klamath Lake, Link River Dam, Lost River, Miller, Malone and Anderson-Rose Diversions dams.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife along with the Klamath County Library are in need of some citizen biologists.
The agencies are teaming up for a Duck Branding Night Adventure.
Families are invited with everyone ages 11 and older to help catch, band, and release ducks in the Klamath Wetlands.
The free event takes place on Tuesday from 7:30 p.m. until midnight.
After it concludes, the library says attendees will have a good answer to “what did you do on summer vacation?”
Register by calling the Klamath Wetlands at 541-281-0140.
Journey under the sea at Klamath County libraries Klamath County Library
Service District A fan-favorite Summer Reading special guest returns with
another awesome museum exhibit!
The University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History will take us on a Journey Under the Sea, investigating the wide variety of life forms that call the ocean off Oregon’s coast home. This collection of specimens and hands-on activities will appear at the following library branches:
* Bonanza – 31703 Hwy 70 – Tuesday, August 13th at 10 am
* Chiloquin – 140 South First St. – Wednesday, August 14th at 2 pm
*
Downtown Klamath Falls – 126 S. 3rd St – Wednesday, August 14th at 10 am
* After the event – Wednesdays from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm – stop by
the grass between the library and the Klamath County courthouse for free
lunch, provided by Integral Youth Services.
*
Keno – 15555 Hwy 66 #1 – Thursday, August 15th at 2 pm
* Malin – 2307 Front St. – Tuesday, August 13th at 2 pm
*
South Suburban Klamath Falls – 3625 Summers Lane – Thursday, August 15th at
10 am
This exhibit is for all ages, but those under 10 years old need to be
accompanied by a parent or guardian, please.
For more information, call us at 541-882-8894 or visit
klamathlibrary.org/SRP<https:/
You’re invited to come by Sky Lakes Washburn Pharmacy on Thursday, August 15th. Fill a prescription or purchase an over-the-counter item and get a free backpack stuffed with school supplies.
Sky Lakes Washburn Pharmacy is open Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 7:00pm and Saturday 9am – 5pm.
One backpack per child while supplies last. Child must be present. While supplies last.
The 6th Street Viaduct will be reduced to one lane from 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM on August 1st to perform coring samples on the bridge in preparation for future construction related activities.
This is the stretch of 6th Street that is a bridge over Spring Street and the Union Pacific Railroad. For more information, please contact Public Works at 541-883-5363.
The Earl and Jane Ferguson Scholarship Fund of Oregon Community Foundation announced that it has awarded $10,000 in scholarships to ten Klamath students to support their academic and career goals. The scholarships are awarded to:
Jace Stringer, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Henley High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend the University of Oregon. He plans to major in business and pursue a career that incorporates disability studies into business practices. In high school, he dedicated his time to volunteering with Elevate Physical Therapy and the Joint Base Lewis McChord Pride Basketball Team. Jace experiences a lifelong disability but maintained academic focus while working on his mental and physical health and creating a peer support system. Notably, Jace built a disability-friendly gym and invited peers to be a part of a self-development process either independently or with his support.
Meredith Brown, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Henley High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Grand Canyon University. She plans to complete a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and pursue a career as a forensic chemist. Meredith was an honor student but also found time to participate on several sports teams and community clubs such as honor society, Key Club, FFA and 4-H. She was proud to volunteer at many organizations, including Camp Invention, where she spent time teaching science through STEM based programs to elementary students.
Celeste Cobian Valadez, Merrill, Oregon, graduating from Lost River Jr./Sr. High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend the University of Oregon. She plans to major in business administration and marketing and pursue a career as a marketing manager. Throughout high school, Celeste was a leader in her community, participating in activities such as the LatinX club, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and student government. She also dedicated her time to volunteering at Czech Malin Lodge, The Kindness Club and various other organizations. Celeste was co-valedictorian of her class, a scholar athlete and Oregon FBLA January 2024 Spotlight Member of the Month.
Annie Campos, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Henley High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend the Oregon Institute of Technology. She plans to major in applied mathematics and pursue a career as a high school math teacher. Annie thrived in sports, playing on both the varsity softball and basketball teams since 2020. She also served as a member of the student council, honor society and Key Club. Annie received many honors in high school including Salutatorian, Basketball Skyline Player of the Year and Softball First Team All-State Pitcher.
Isabela Coffman, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Klamath Union High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Utah Tech University. She plans to major in elementary education and pursue a career as a special education teacher. Isabela was passionate about high school extracurricular activities. She was a member of three bands, played three sports, served on the National Honor Society and was the Young Women’s President of her church group. She also volunteered as the Crater Lake Rim Run Co-Director and a Special Olympics coach.
Betty Kay Overcash, Merrill, Oregon, graduating from Lost River High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Lassen Community College. She plans to obtain an associate transfer degree in animal science with an emphasis on equine science and pursue a career in equine management and training. In addition to her passion for animals and the outdoors, Betty Kay was on the honor roll, served as the class secretary, participated in FFA and played a variety of sports. She also spent her time volunteering at the Klamath Falls Fairgrounds, the Merrill Civic Center and other local events.
Augustus Hendricks, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Klamath Union High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Hamline University. He plans to major in environmental science and pursue a career as a soil scientist. Augustus was a strong school athlete, participating in swim team, track and tennis. He also participated in the National Honor Society and the math team, where he consistently placed in the top three. Outside of school, Augustus worked as a lifeguard and taught swim lessons.
Makay Clark, Klamath Falls, Oregon, graduating from Henley High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend the University of Nevada Reno. She plans to major in mechanical engineering and pursue a career as a mechanical engineer. Makay was dedicated to many school activities including student government, the robotics club and sports teams such as golf, wrestling and soccer. Notably in 2023, she served as the varsity wrestling team captain and was part of the Vex Robotics Excellence and Design Awards.
Morgan Herring, Merrill, Oregon, graduating from Lost River High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend either Southern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology or Klamath Community College. She plans to major in psychology or criminology and pursue a career in the counseling or legal-related field. In addition to being an honor student, Morgan played multiple sports, served on her local FFA chapter, was on student government and participated in Future Business Leaders of America. Morgan received the excellence awards for sports medicine, English arts, and anatomy & physiology.
Alyse Perez, Klamath Falls, graduating from Klamath Union High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Oregon State University. She plans to major in marketing and secondary education and pursue a career as a director of marketing or business teacher. Throughout high school, Alyse had an array of interests. She was a member of the band, associated student body, tennis team, Klamath Union DECA and the Klamath Union National Honors Society. She also dedicated many hours of her time as a volunteer for local events with her church and the community.
Since the Earl and Jane Ferguson Scholarship Fund gave its first scholarships in 1999, the fund has awarded more than $110,000 to Klamath County students. “We are so grateful to the Fergusons for their generosity and support of students pursuing higher education, and for the committee of community volunteers who review and select recipients” says Kaylin Preston, a program associate for scholarships with Oregon Community Foundation.
In 2023, Oregon Community Foundation awarded more than 3,400 scholarships totaling $12.2 million, 48% of which were first generation students and 49% were students from rural communities.
Oregon Tech’s Online Learning campus is expanding its offerings with 12 new certificates.
The expansion is in response to growing demand in three focus areas: writing; social, culture, and ethics; and business and technology.
Oregon Tech’s Dean of Online Learning and Global Engagement Ruth Claire Black, Ed.D., explained that demand for online certificates is increasing nationwide with strong enrollment increases among young students and individuals in career transition and those seeking career advancement. Now, in addition to existing certificates in Clinical Sleep Health and Polysomnographic Technology, Oregon Tech offers:
Writing certificates:
- Health Communication
- Proposal and Grant Writing
- Technical and Medical Writing
- UX Writing
Social, Culture, and Ethics certificates:
- Ethics
- Cultural Competency
- Social Determinants of Health
Business and Technology certificates:
- Business Management Essentials
- Business Systems and Management
- Geographic Information Systems
- Management Information Systems
- Picture Archiving and Communication Systems [Relaunch]
- Global Leadership and Management Essentials
Most certificates include six classes and can be completed in as little as three terms.
In addition to certificates, Oregon Tech Online offers 21 degree and degree completion programs, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs.
Individuals interested in certificate courses can apply using Oregon Tech’s Non-Degree Seeking application. The non-degree application does not have an application fee and there are no admission requirements to meet.
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Around the State of Oregon
Summer Gas prices in Oregon are still higher than more than 30 other states in the nation. Triple-A reports Oregon drivers are paying an average of $3.94 a gallon for regular gas. The national average was unchanged at $3.50 a gallon.
Many Oregon State Parks are now CLOSED because of wildfire danger. Closings can be monitored by visiting www.stateparks.oregon.gov.
In addition, some roads and highways leading to state parks have been closed due to wildfires. Visit tripcheck.com to learn about closures and alternative routes and don’t rely on GPS units, as they may not have updated information.
For more information on wildfires in the state, visit the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website at www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx.
Telephone Area Fire Rages in Harney County, 23,000 acres burned
The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing four structural task forces and its green incident management team to the Telephone Fire burning in Harney County, 12 miles northeast of Burns.
The lightning-caused fire started on July 22 and is now threatening homes and structures. As of this morning, the fire was estimated at 38,726 acres with 23 percent containment.
The area remains under a Red Flag Warning, Excessive Heat Warning, and Fire Weather Watch. Temperatures are in the high 90s to low 100s. Critical fire weather will continue for the next several days with high temperatures and low relative humidity.
The incident management team and two structural task forces will be briefed at 9 p.m. tonight with another two task forces arriving tomorrow morning.
“Another heat wave with critical fire weather is affecting much of Eastern Oregon. The 2024 wildfire season has already proven to be difficult, with more than 1.2 million acres burned across the state. We have many large wildfires burning with no end in sight,” Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “I encourage everyone to be aware of these critical fire weather conditions and take every precaution you can to avoid sparking a wildfire.”
On Thursday afternoon, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire which allows the state fire marshal to mobilize state resources to protect life and property.
Following ORS 476.510-476.610, Governor Kotek determined that threats to life, safety, and property exist because of the fire, and the threats exceed the capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment.
A popular state park on the central Oregon Coast is welcoming camping and day use visitors back, starting this weekend.
Beverly Beach State Park near Newport has been closed for nearly a year for repairs and construction. Crews moved overhead power lines underground for safety and to maintain electricity during high winds at the coast. The park also replaced its aging waterlines. You’ll notice fewer trees. Parks workers removed about 200 hazard trees for public safety.
The Oregon Health Authority has announced a new director of the Ballot Measure 110 program.
The program sets up statewide service networks to provide addiction treatment programs. Abbey Stamp is a licensed clinical social worker and served for 11 years as executive director of the Multnomah County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council. She’ll work to strengthen partnerships with providers across the state.
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is warning homeowners about assignment of benefits agreements. Following a disaster, they can sign the agreement to allow a contractor to deal directly with your insurance company while making repairs. It also removes your rights to mediation. The contractor can file suit against the insurance company, if they don’t pay enough. They’re warning homeowners to be diligent and alert for potential fraud.
More than 110 major wildfires are now burning across the U.S.
Communities in the norhtwest and Canada are under siege from raging wildfires. A fast-moving blaze sparked by lightning sent people fleeing on fire-ringed roads in rural Idaho and a human-caused inferno has forced the evacuation of hundreds of homes in northern California.
In eastern Oregon, a pilot was found dead in a small air tanker plane that crashed while fighting one of the many wildfires spreading across several Western states.
More than 110 active fires covering 2,800 square miles (7,250 square kilometers) are now burning across the country, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Some were caused by the weather, with climate change increasing the frequency of lightning strikes as the region endures record heat and bone-dry conditions.
Others were human-caused, like the Park Fire burning in Butte County, California, just northwest of the community of Paradise where the 2018 Camp Fire killed 85 people and incinerated thousands of homes.
Carli Parker is one of hundreds who fled their homes this week as the Park Fire pushed close. Parker decided to leave with her Forest Ranch residence with her family when the fire began burning across the street. She has previously been forced out of two homes by fire, and she said she had little hope that her residence would remain unscathed.
More than 130 structures have been destroyed by the fire, and thousands more remain threatened. The state’s largest active wildfire began Wednesday when a man pushed a burning car into a gully in Chico and then calmly blended in with others fleeing the scene, authorities said.
Ronnie Dean Stout, 42, of Chico, was arrested early Thursday and held without bail pending a Monday arraignment, officials said. There was no reply to an email to the district attorney asking whether the suspect had legal representation or someone who could comment on his behalf.
By midday Friday, the fire had burned more than 278 square miles (720 square kilometers) across the Sierra Nevada foothills above the city of 100,000. It remained completely uncontained.
Fire crews were making progress on another complex of fires burning in the Plumas National Forest near the California-Nevada line, said Forest Service spokesperson Adrienne Freeman. About 1,000 people had been displaced Thursday by the lightning-sparked Gold Complex fires, but some evacuations were lifted Friday when the 5-square-mile (12-square-kilometer) fire was about 11% contained. Fire managers pulled about 200 of the firefighters off the line at the Gold Complex so they could aid efforts on the Park Fire near Chico.
Wildfires Could Cause Power Outages
As wildfires continue to burn throughout the state and extreme weather events impact communities, Oregon residents are reminded to be prepared for potential power outages.
Wildfires and extreme weather can cause power outages, and weather and other conditions in specific geographies may cause electric utilities to adjust system settings, which can result in more frequent and longer outages, or even in certain cases, implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). A PSPS is a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might result in wildfires. Utilities may also need to deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires, or to protect personnel fighting fires.
Be prepared in advance
- Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider.
- For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage.
- Make sure your utility service provider has current contact information to receive notifications by updating your account online. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
- Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
- Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
- Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.
During a power outage
- Avoid downed power lines, including anything near downed lines, at all costs.
- Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service in your community.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards.
- Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. After turning off all the lights, turn one light on to know when power has been restored.
- Use generators safely – Do not run the generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions.
- Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
- Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, do not call 911.
Natural gas tips
- If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
- If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
- If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service.
- If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Stay informed
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
- Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.
- Before traveling visit Trip Check for details on road closures and conditions.
- Check air quality in Oregon.
- Visit State of Oregon Fires Dashboard.
Be Prepared with Fire Weather Tools
As we prepare for the peak of wildfire season in the U.S., the National Weather Service (NWS) reminds wildland fire managers that we have tools to help you monitor and fight wildfires. Whether it is a prescribed burn, ground fire or crown fire, fire managers can use this information to make decisions on how best to combat fires and keep the public safe.
Fire weather forecasters – The NWS issues Fire Weather Outlooks for the next eight days. These outlooks show areas where pre-existing fuel conditions, combined with forecast weather conditions, may result in a significant threat of wildfires.
Our Fire Weather Program supports land managers and firefighters who mitigate and respond to fires. Our weather forecasts are designed to highlight times and locations where a fire may be exceptionally hard to control. For example, we offer Red Flag Warnings, which mean warm temperatures, very low humidities and stronger winds are ongoing or expected to produce an increased risk of fire danger in 12 to 24 hours for specific locations.
Need a fire weather Spot Forecast? Land managers can request a site-specific, localized forecast for prescribed burns and wildfires to assess a potential threat. NWS recently updated this tool and will deliver additional enhancements to the application later this year. Learn more about the new Spot Forecast tool.
For federal and select state large wildfires, onsite weather forecasting support to firefighters is critical. An NWS Incident- Meteorologist (IMET) can be deployed to your incident command post. IMETs arrive on scene within 12 to 24 hours after activation and can serve up to 14 consecutive days before being relieved by another IMET. https://www.weather.gov/news/241507-fire-weather-tools
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
- Immediately call 911 to report fires.
- Drones and other unmanned aircrafts are illegal to fly near fires.
- Fireworks, incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding targets, are prohibited during fire season (May-October).
- Use caution when target shooting. Clear a 20-foot radius around the target by removing all vegetation and rocks.
- Ensure vehicles and trailers are properly maintained
- Make sure chains and other metal parts are not dragging.
- Keep exhaust systems clean and use spark arrestors.
- Do not park on dry grass.
- Carry extra water, shovel, and/or a fire extinguisher with you.
- Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite by making sure it is cool to the touch.
- Please don’t smoke and if you do, don’t throw out cigarette butts.
- Please be mindful and think about your actions
To ensure all Oregonians remain safe during the 2024 wildfire season, we urge everyone to stay tuned into these communications channels and follow all official safety guidelines related to air quality and recreation:
Watch Duty app: Download this app on your smartphone to understand where wildfires are in real time as well as monitor air quality and other metrics. https://app.watchduty.org
Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: During fire season, this web-based interactive map is updated daily with current fire perimeters and locations. This website acts as the wildfire resource coordination center for the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Oregon Dept of Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington Dept. of Natural Resources and the National Park Service. https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/index.aspx
InciWeb the Incident Information System: The federal interagency all-risk incident information management system provides an interactive map with real-time location information on wildfires. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
Oregon Department of Forestry Wildfire News: The official wildfire news blog for the Oregon Department of Forestry. Look here for all wildfire news related to state forest lands. https://odffire.com/
Keep Oregon Green: A partnership comprised of statewide and interagency groups working together to promote awareness of the risk and causes of wildfires and how to be prepared in case of a wildfire emergency. https://keeporegongreen.org/
OregonLive Wildfire Map: A project managed by OregonLive that incorporates data from InciWeb, National Interagency Fire Center, Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, NOAA into an easy-to-use map tool. https://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Monitoring Data: A real-time map and cell phone application you can use to track air quality, including wildfire smoke impacts, across the state. Check your app store for OregonAir. https://oraqi.deq.state.or.us/home/map
Purple Air – Air Quality Map System: Real-time air quality information using crowdsourced data and data from EPA air sensors. https://map.purpleair.com/1/mAQI/a10/p604800/cC0…
NOAA High Resolution Rapid Refresh Data Visualization: The High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency(NOAA) is an experimental data visualization tool for wildfire smoke. Be sure to turn on the “Vertically Integrated Smoke” layer to see smoke paths. https://hwp-viz.gsd.esrl.noaa.gov/smoke/index.html
During summer months, many families lose access to school food programs that are essential to their budget. However, some 30,000 children may be eligible for extra food assistance over the summer break, the state says.
To be eligible for “Summer EBT,” children must:
- Attend a school participating in the national school lunch or breakfast programs.
- Be in households with incomesat or below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, which varies by family size.
Families can visit the state’s website in English and Spanish to check eligibility. The deadline to apply is Sept. 2, and benefits last 122 days from when they are received.
Eligible families receive one annual payment of $120 per child for groceries to help when school is out. Families taking part in programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or the Oregon Health Plan received the added benefit on their electronic benefit card automatically in June.
The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program for Children, or Summer EBT, pays a one-time payment of $120 per child to help low-income families cover food costs over the three-month summer period when children are not in school and don’t have access to those free meals.
The payment adds to other assistance, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. The summer program totals about $35 million in aid a year and is funded entirely by the federal government.
A pilot run of the program in Oregon showed it reduced child hunger by one-third, said Iván Hernández, a spokesman for the Oregon Food Bank.
This spring, the Oregon Food Bank estimated that one in five children in the state face hunger, but Feeding America says it’s one in six.
In January, Oregon officials applied for the program, and this spring the Legislature agreed to the federal requirement to pay for half of the administrative costs, about $13 million over two years.
Families who are already on SNAP, the Oregon Health Plan or Medicaid, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, TANF, have received automatic $120 payments earlier this month. But these other children qualify as well:
The Red Cross is looking for people to donate blood and platelets before the summer ends.
The Red Cross says donors are critically needed to support hospitals’ around-the-clock demand.
Type O blood donors or anyone giving platelets are especially needed to keep hospital shelves stocked through August.
Anyone who donates from August 1 through August 31 will get a $20 Amazon gift card.
Go to the Red Cross website for more details.
Nearly 1 in 4 Oregon workers is over 55, nearing or beyond the typical retirement age.
The share of older workers in the state’s labor force has more than doubled since 1990, according to a new report from the Oregon Employment Department. If there’s a big wave of retirements in the offing, that could limit future economic growth — especially in those industries with the highest share of older workers.
Oregon is one of the oldest states in the nation, with the median resident about 17 months older than the median American. That’s showing up in added demands on social service agencies and on the state’s health care system.
Older workers leaving the labor force could create an even tighter labor market. That might be good for employees in some ways, pushing up wages as companies compete to attract workers. And older workers’ departures would open up pathways for career advancement.
ODOT and the Oregon DMV says they are aware of a phishing scam in Oregon where hackers contacting our customers are claiming to be from the DMV.
Oregon DMV will never ask you for personal information, such as your driver’s license number, Social Security number, or date of birth through an unsolicited phone call, text or email.
Scammers impersonate the DMV to trick you into giving them personal information or money. If you receive an unsolicited phone call, text or email claiming to be from the DMV with an urgent matter, like your driver’s license or car registration is about to expire or you are owed money due to overpayment, ignore or delete the message or hang up. Do not click on any verification links.
If you receive a phishing call, text or email, notify the DMV Fraud Prevention Team at 503-945-8946 or send an online report.
BE FIRE READY
Salem, Ore – With multiple crews engaged in initial attack on new wildfire starts and all of Oregon’s available incident management teams on assignment, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions.
Oregonians are urged to actively practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts.
How can people help prevent wildfires?
The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state works to control over 20 large fires. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:
- Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
- Remember that debris burning is prohibited statewide.
- Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
- Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
- Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.
How can I prepare my home to be resilient against fire?
The Oregon State Fire Marshal can help you create defensible space. Defensible space is the area around your home and property that’s maintained to prevent wildfire from spreading. Creating and maintaining defensible space is the best protection you can give your home against wildfire.
A few ideas to protect the first five feet around your home:
- Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof, gutters, and on top of and underneath decks.
- Trim tall plants and bushes growing directly under eaves and make sure trees and plants have adequate space from your home and other vegetation.
- Remove dead and combustible plants and mulch; replace it with decorative rock or gravel.
- Cover exterior attic vents, soffit vents, and areas below decks and patios with 1/8″ metal wire mesh.
Be cautious with using power tools and other equipment that can throw sparks and don’t operate machinery in the heat of the day. Summer is a great time to plan defensible space projects to start working on in the fall when wildfire season is over.
How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate?
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready.
Evacuation Levels
- Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
- Oregonians should become familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
- OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
- Following an evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.
Stay Informed
- Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
- Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff’s office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
- Check your phone settingsto ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on.
Have a Plan
- Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during, and after an evacuation.
- Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency.
- Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs.
- People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals.
- Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.
Make a Go-Kit
- Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
- Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.
Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.
Recreate Responsibly
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. Due to the continued low humidity and risk of wildfires, OPRD banned campfires at all Oregon State Parks east of the Cascades as well as at parks in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Most Oregon State Parks currently have a campfire ban. Please check park webpages or the wildfire feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.
Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.
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