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 them at 541-882-6476.

 

Friday, April 11, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

Today
A 20% chance of showers after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 65. Overnight, a 20% chance of showers before 11pm. Snow level  lowering to 5000 feet after midnight . Mostly cloudy with a low around 33. 

 

Opening this Saturday, the Whiskey Bent Saloon aims to infuse downtown Klamath Falls with a touch of Southern hospitality.

Owner Justin Sprinkle, a self-proclaimed country boy with experiences from Texas, Tennessee, and Alabama, shared that it has long been his and his wife’s aspiration to establish a bar. Distinctive within Klamath Falls’ vibrant drinking culture, the Whiskey Bent Saloon has secured a partnership with Jack Daniel’s, the world’s leading Tennessee whiskey brand, marking the first such collaboration for the brand in Oregon.

In addition to Jack Daniel’s, patrons will find a variety of whiskey options, along with an assortment of brandies and tequila. While the saloon will offer a limited selection of bottled beers, it will not feature any draft options.

Embodying the spirit of traditional saloons, Whiskey Bent Saloon pays homage to the country bars of the 1800s with an impressive lineup of events and entertainment.

In its inaugural month, the venue has scheduled over four performances showcasing a range of musical genres, including rock, country, and folk. Future plans include line dancing sessions, classes, open mic nights, poetry slams, karaoke, and stand-up comedy. The establishment is situated at 617 Main.

 

The Klamath Basin Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Oregon, in collaboration with the Klamath County Museum and the Klamath County Master Gardeners, has organized a native plant sale set for Saturday, May 18th, at the Museum.

Approximately 70% of the 87 plant species featured in this year’s sale have been cultivated by the Master Gardeners and Chapter members, while the remaining plants will be supplied by WinterCreek Restoration and Nursery located in Bend. The Chapter anticipates having over 1,500 plants available for purchase by the public.

Proceeds from the sale will be directed towards the revision and reprinting of the 2009 edition of “Common Plants of the Upper Klamath Basin,” which has been out of circulation for several years. This regional field guide, designed for both the general public and professionals in natural resources and botany, continues to be in high demand.

For further details, please visit the ‘Events & Hikes’ section on the Chapter’s website at https://klamathbasinnps.com, where you will find a link to this year’s digital plant catalog. Additionally, for more information on gardening with native plants, please refer to the ‘Links and Resources’ section.

 

Klamath’s youngest vocalists are extending an invitation to the community to join them for a cinematic experience next week as they prepare for the annual Rag Tag Choir spring performance.

This year’s event, titled “Let’s All Go to the Movies,” will showcase the talents of Klamath County youth as they perform songs from cherished classic films. The program will include popular show tunes such as “Singin’ in the Rain” and “It’s a Hard-Knock Life,” highlighting the diverse vocal abilities of local students in the youth choir at the Ross Ragland Theater.

The Rag Tag Choir hosts two performances each year and has also participated in various local music productions at the Ragland, including last year’s Christmas with the Celts event.

 

This week’s pet is a kitty named ” Thor ” at Klamath Animal Shelter

 

Around the State of Oregon

Multiple alleged illegal marijuana grow sites are currently under investigation after deputies with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) seized more than 10-thousand marijuana plants from several unlicensed locations.

According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began after OLCC discovered that a business, named Agricola, was “operating far outside of the legal requirements regarding plant tracking, [and] product location.”

On April 3, 2025, LCSO deputies and detectives served search warrants at several locations:

• A greenhouse and residence in the 40300 block of Reuben Leigh, north of Lowell
• A warehouse in the 1400 block of N. 32nd Street, Springfield
• A warehouse in the 4200 block of W. 7th Avenue, Eugene
• A warehouse in the 600 block of Commercial Street, Eugene
• A warehouse in the 200 block of E. Palmer Avenue, Cottage Grove
• A planned dispensary in the 1600 block of Main Street, Springfield

 

State and Federal Taxes are due Tuesday, April 15, but if you still haven’t filed your 2024 returns, the state of Oregon is sharing some options to submit them for free The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging taxpayers to submit their returns as soon as possible.

Nearly 1.2 million Oregonians have already filed their state personal income tax returns this year, but more than 1 million Oregonians have yet to submit their tax year 2024 returns.  E-filing is the fastest way for taxpayers to get their tax refund.

The Department also says electronically filing (e-filing) your taxes and requesting a refund through direct deposit is a quicker way to get your return. Anyone looking to track their return in Oregon can use the Department’s Where’s My Refund? tool to check Taxpayers can file their federal return directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) using their Direct File software, and file their state return using Direct File Oregon.

Both programs are free. Other services offering free tax preparation assistance can be found on the Revenue website.

 

MEASLES OUTBREAK CONTINUES TO GROW

Make sure Oregon youth are up to date on vaccinations

The Oregon Health Authority wants you to know the 2025 United States’ measles outbreak is on pace to be the largest since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000.

To date, 22 states have reported more than 600 measles cases this year (including the newest cases reported in Indiana just this week), largely from a single outbreak straddling Texas and New Mexico. Over the past 30 years, only 2019 had a higher national measles case count by this time of year—with 704 cases reported by the end of April and 1,274 by year’s end.

The age group most affected by measles this year is children ages 5-19—accounting for 40% of all cases.

While we haven’t seen any measles cases in Oregon yet this year, public health officials are urging families to make sure all children are up to date on measles vaccination (MMR). Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97% protection against measles. The first dose is generally given to babies at 12-15 months old, and the second between ages 4 and 6 (but can be given as soon as one month after the first.)

Learn more about the MMR vaccine, including the spread and health risks of measles, here.

This week is Adolescent Immunization Action Week, a yearly observance aimed at raising awareness around the importance of adolescent immunizations that help protect teens against diseases and infections. In addition to MMR vaccination, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:

• Human Papillomavirus(HPV) vaccination, preferably at ages 9-12 to help protect from HPV-related cancers in adulthood.
• Tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis(Tdap) booster, preferably at ages 11-12. (In Oregon, a Tdap booster is required before starting 7th grade.)
• Meningococcalvaccination at age 11, and again at age 16.

Immunization resources for teens and young adults can be found here.

 

New information has surfaced regarding the tragic deaths of a 37-year-old woman and her three children, aged 2, 5, and 7, which occurred on Tuesday in a residence in Cornelius.

As of Wednesday, the property located on a cul-de-sac in the 300 block of North 15th Avenue was free of police tape. Additionally, Cornelius Elementary School, where the two older children were students, continued to hold classes. Cornelius, a city with a population of approximately 12,000, is situated between Hillsboro and Forest Grove in Washington County.

The circumstances surrounding the incident on Tuesday remain unclear. Authorities have not released the names of the victims or provided further details about their investigation, although they have indicated that there is no perceived threat to public safety.

 

On Thursday, airport officials reported that the pilot and four passengers aboard a small private aircraft that “skidded off” the runway at Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend on Monday morning sustained only “minor injuries.”

The aircraft, a 2019 HA-420 HondaJet, was arriving from Utah when the landing went wrong, causing it to end up in approximately five feet of water in Coos Bay. The identities of the five individuals on board have not been disclosed. They were transported to Bay Area Hospital, where three have since been released, while one was transferred to a different facility, as per officials.

The aircraft has been successfully retrieved from the bay, and normal airport operations have resumed.

 

The Modoc County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is actively pursuing its investigation into human remains that have been identified as belonging to Nicholas Patterson, a California man who went missing nearly a year ago.

The sheriff’s office reported that Patterson was last seen on January 4, 2020, and was officially reported missing on January 9 of the same year. At the time of his disappearance, he was 26 years old.

The skeletal remains were located in May 2024, and after a forensic examination, they were confirmed to be Patterson’s in July of that year. Patterson’s family chose not to issue any public statements at that time. The MCSO continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Patterson’s disappearance, noting that he was known to visit the Burney area in Shasta County, the Big Valley region in Lassen County, and the Lookout area in Modoc County, where the remains were ultimately discovered.

 

By next week, 12,000 Oregonians who received unemployment benefits last year are expected to receive corrected 1099-G forms.

The issue arose due to the transition from the previous computer system to the new Francis Online. Over 100 employees from the Employment Department are diligently reviewing each corrected form to ensure their accuracy.

Those who have already filed their federal taxes will need to amend them accordingly. The Oregon Department of Revenue is offering straightforward options for updating state tax returns.

 

The Oregon House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill late last week to change the eviction process of squatters by homeowners.

House Bill 3522 allows the removal of squatters using the standard eviction process, known in Oregon as Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED), without any proof of forced entry or an existing landlord-tenant relationship. If the bill passes, a lease doesn’t need to be in place for homeowners to follow the standard eviction process. 

Without HB 3522, state law requires property owners to take civil legal action against the squatter in a process known as ejectment, which chief co-sponsor Rep. Hai Pham said “costs individual homeowners thousands of dollars in costs and often takes months to process.” The bill is now moving to the Senate for consideration.

 

Oregon voters would be asked to reconsider vote-by-mail under a bill in the Legislature. If voters approved it, voting would have to be in-person with state issued photo identification.

Voters could request a ballot in the mail 21 days in advance for each election, with photo identification. Postage would no longer be paid by the state. More than nine-thousand comments were received online. 81 percent of the comments opposed the bill and nine percent were in support.

 

A Gladstone, Oregon man was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison today for abducting and sexually abusing a Canadian child he met through a music creation social media platform.

Noah Madrano, 43, was sentenced to 600 months in federal prison, a $5,000 fine, and a lifetime term of supervised release. The sum of restitution he must pay to his victim will be determined at a later date.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the FBI special agents and Oregon City police officers who rescued the victim in Oregon and brought the defendant to justice,” said William M. Narus, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “This sentence is a result of the extraordinary efforts of the victim, the victim’s family, their community, and law enforcement here and in Canada.”

“The persistence with which Madrano pursued his heinous crimes – traveling internationally on multiple occasions to victimize a child he met online, and ultimately smuggling that victim across an international border, speaks to how predatory his actions genuinely were,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Olson. “Madrano will be in his mid-nineties when he is eligible for supervised release. His removal from our communities benefits everyone.”

According to court documents, Madrano met a child online whom he sexually exploited for more than a year. In May 2022, he traveled to Canada to meet the child in person, took the child to a hotel room, sexually abused the victim, and recorded his abuse. A few weeks later, on June 24, 2022, Madrano returned to Canada, where he abducted the child from outside a school and took the victim to another hotel room. At the hotel, Madrano sexually abused the child for several days and recorded videos of his abuse. On July 1, 2022, Madrano hid the child in the trunk of his vehicle and drove back to the United States. Once in Oregon, Madrano brought the victim to a hotel room, where he continued to sexually abuse the child.

In the early morning of July 2, 2022, FBI special agents and Oregon City police officers entered Madrano’s hotel room and found him inside with the victim. Madrano was arrested and the child was taken into protective custody, reunited with her parents, and returned to Canada.

On September 21, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Madrano with sexually exploiting a child, traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, transporting a child with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and possessing child pornography.

On January 13, 2025, Madrano pleaded guilty to sexually exploiting a child and transporting a child with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

This case was investigated by FBI Portland’s Child Exploitation Task Force (CETF) with assistance from the Oregon City Police Department, the Gladstone Police Department, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, the Edmonton Police Service, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. It was prosecuted by Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

 

EUGENE, Ore.—A known, high-volume Central Oregon drug trafficker was sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison today following a multi-agency investigation led by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

Ricky Fontaine, 32, of Bend, Oregon, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

“This case is the result of excellent collaboration among the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit, the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon,” said William M. Narus, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We thank the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office for partnering with us to prosecute this case in federal court.”

According to court documents, on April 1, 2023, after obtaining information that Fontaine was actively selling drugs—including fentanyl—in Deschutes County, detectives from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Fontaine. Fontaine, who at the time of the stop had an unrelated active felony arrest warrant, attempted to walk away from the traffic stop on foot, but was quickly apprehended by the detectives.

The detectives searched Fontaine’s vehicle and found more than 1,000 grams of fentanyl, a .22 caliber handgun, scales and drug packaging materials. The detectives also found several photographs of Fontaine posing with large quantities of packaged fentanyl pills. A few hours later, the detectives executed a second search warrant on Fontaine’s residence and found additional fentanyl pills, scales and packaging materials.

On January 18, 2024, Fontaine was charged by superseding indictment with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On December 4, 2024, he pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was investigated by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit with assistance from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE) and Redmond Police Department. It was prosecuted by Andrew R. Doyle, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 3-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Live phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

Researchers at Oregon State University are exploring methods to modify the dimensions of silver nanoparticles, potentially leading to significant progress in medical imaging.

The study’s leaders indicated that this innovation could transform the field, given that silver nanoparticles are minuscule particles capable of eliminating microorganisms. The objective of the research was to achieve uniformity in both shape and size while preventing degradation. When silver nanoparticles are consistent and stable, they can be effectively utilized in applications such as water purification, wound care, and medical diagnostic imaging.

This research received financial support through grants from the National Science Foundation.

Enterprise Information Services is actively looking into a cyberattack that has affected the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

A department spokesperson stated, “We are currently shutting down networks to isolate the agency’s servers and network until the attack is fully contained and possibly eliminated.” The agency expressed its apologies for any disruptions this may cause, adding, “DEQ will share further information as it becomes accessible.”

Officials from the Oregon DEQ indicated that an update might be provided by the end of the day or as significant developments occur.

 

 

 

While these often predator animals harm livestock all over the northwest, the increasing populations of gray wolves in California, particularly in Siskiyou and Modoc counties adjacent to Klamath and Lake counties in Oregon, have prompted the liberal California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to enhance management efforts and provide support for them in affected rural communities.

The CDFW had identified seven established wolf packs and four additional regions with confirmed wolf activity in 2024. The majority of these packs are located in northeastern California, including the Whaleback Pack in Siskiyou County, while Modoc County is recognized as an area of known wolf activity.

In 2024, five out of the seven packs qualified as “breeding pairs” according to CDFW’s criteria, which requires the survival of two adults and at least two pups until the year’s end.

A recent news release indicated that, having documented a minimum of four breeding pairs for two consecutive years, California has now entered “Phase 2” of wolf management, as outlined in the state’s 2016 Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves. […of 1,000 things the state of California needs to worry about, this would be #1,000! -editor]

 

Oregon State Representative Pam Marsh has proposed new legislation aimed at supporting substance use recovery for individuals experiencing homelessness.

House Bill 3146 seeks to establish a pilot program under the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) that would offer low-barrier emergency housing to those on waiting lists for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. According to Marsh, local organizations have reported that 60 to 70% of individuals who access emergency housing remain and engage in SUD treatment.

The proposed bill allocates $10 million from the general fund to the OHA, which would be utilized to support between four and eight emergency housing initiatives across the state. Marsh developed this bill after observing the success of emergency housing programs implemented by local organizations such as OnTrack and Oasis.

 

Oregon is set to receive more than four million dollars as part of a multi-state settlement with the pharmaceutical company Mylan, which is now referred to as Viatris.

Authorities have stated that the company misrepresented its opioids as being less addictive, which led to excessive prescribing and illicit usage. The funds will be allocated to support local programs focused on addiction prevention and treatment.

Mylan is disbursing a total of 335 million dollars to 15 states.

 

SALEM, OR – After recent storms and flooding across Oregon, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) are sharing important safety tips for cleaning up disaster debris. Following these guidelines can help protect your health, your neighbors, and the environment. Cleaning up after a disaster can be overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with fallen trees, damaged furniture, or household hazardous materials, knowing how to safely handle debris is critical for your safety and your community’s recovery.  

 

Also, a reminder, Harney County has a staffed hotline to call with questions related to the floods 541-589-0112. Please only call 911 for life-threatening emergencies or visit their website. 

Stay Safe During Cleanup 

• Wear protective gear like waterproof gloves, eye protection, boots, and a N95 or respirator mask (especially if you’re handling mold, dusty materials or potentially hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead). 
• Floodwaters in Harney County were contaminated with  coli and Coliform.Avoid direct contact with debris that was in floodwater and always wear gloves and wash your hands often with hot water and soap to prevent the spread of illness.  

Start With Rotten Waste 

• Remove spoiled food, household garbage, and dead animals first. 
• Keep different types of debris separated if possible—this helps with proper disposal and recycling. 
• Remember, SNAP benefitslost or destroyed as a result of March flooding can be replaced. You have until April 15, 2025, to request replacement.   
• Information in Englishand Spanish

Be Cautious Around Hazardous Materials 

• If you find chemicals, fuel containers, paint cans, or anything that could be toxic, set them aside safely and contact DEQ or your county’s hazardous waste team for help. 
• If a container is leaking or the contents are unknown, call the Oregon Emergency Response Systemat 800-452-0311 right away. 

Watch Out for Asbestos 

• Some older homes or buildings may contain asbestos in insulation, flooring, or siding. If you’re not sure, contact a licensed asbestos contractor or a DEQ expert before removing materials. 
• Homes or buildings built before 2004 may contain asbestos in insulation, flooring, or siding, and require an asbestos survey prior to the removal of asbestos waste. If you’re unsure, contact a licensed asbestos contractor or a DEQ expert before removing materials.
• Residents who choose to remove asbestos from their own homes should keep it damp or wet before removing and wear respirators, tie-back suits, and gloves to protect against inhaling or skin contact.Once removed, it should be properly sealed, labeled and taken to a facility that accepts asbestos waste. 
• For questions about asbestos in Eastern Oregon (Harney County) contact:DEQ’s Erik Shafer at 503-688-0493. 

Flood Debris Is Not Hazardous Waste 

• Debris that has touched floodwater can go to approved landfills like the Burns-Hines Disposal site. It is not considered hazardous unless it contains chemicals or asbestos. Visit the ODEQ site for a more complete list of hazards. 
• Dumpster diving and salvaging from debris piles is discouragedas you don’t know what chemicals or bacteria may be present in the dumpster or pile. 
• The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is providing up to $40,000 in landfill fee coverage at C&B Sanitary. This fee waiver is only for residents disposing of flood debris, and anyone choosing to take advantage of it will be asked to provide information about where the debris came from. This fee waiver is only available while funding lasts.   

Skip the Burn Pile 

• Open burning of debris is dangerous and not recommended. Smoke can carry harmful particles that affect your lungs and health. 
• Instead, chip or grind yard debris and clean wood for reuse or composting. Burning is only allowed with DEQ approval and an emergency permit. 

Free Cleanup Supplies and Disposal Sites in Harney County 

• Residents can pick up cleaning supplies at DES Emergency Cleanup Supplies, located at 320 Snow Mountain Pine Lane, Hines. 
• Homes that have been affected by the flood and are beginning to clean up can take flood debris to C&B Sanitary, open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 

OHA empowering communities to reduce tobacco harms statewide 

New report chronicles more than 25 years of progress — though work remains  

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority is making steady progress in reducing harmful effects of tobacco use through education and community partnerships, according to a new report.  

The 2023-25 Tobacco Prevention and Education Program (TPEP) annual report shows gains have been made in lowering tobacco use over more than a quarter century, through ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting public health.  

However, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in Oregon, claiming more than 8,000 lives each year and contributing to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

“Our commitment to reducing tobacco use is unwavering,” said Naomi Adeline-Biggs, director of the OHA Public Health Division. “Through the Tobacco Prevention and Education Program, we have made significant strides in protecting the health of Oregonians, and we will continue to build on this legacy.”

The report shows that the tobacco industry “focuses its ads, offers and store displays toward specific groups.”

For example, about one in five people targeted in this strategy have household incomes of less than $20,000 per year. An identical percentage of targeted tobacco users report being in poor mental health.

Widespread evidence shows that tobacco marketing causes youth tobacco use and makes it harder for people who are addicted to nicotine to quit.

Another marketing strategy involves the addition of menthol – a flavor additive in cigarettes — that creates a cooling sensation in the throat when the user inhales, making cigarettes feel less harsh, more appealing and easier to smoke, especially for youth and young adults. Tobacco companies manufacture menthol cigarettes to attract potential smokers, especially among communities of color and youth.

Menthol cigarettes contribute to greater nicotine dependence in youth and young adults than non-menthol cigarettes. About 61% of African Americans in Oregon who smoke report using menthol cigarettes, compared to 17% of White residents.

The tobacco industry has been marketing menthol products to African Americans through targeted campaigns since the 1970s. They advertise and promote menthol-flavored tobacco in African American neighborhoods and use campaigns that exploit cultural hallmarks and stereotypes.

For example, Newport, a menthol-flavored cigarette brand, is commonly cheaper to buy in areas with more African American residents.

Youth and teenagers are especially attracted to the flavored products. Roughly 75% of eighth graders and 11th graders who use these tobacco products report using flavored tobacco or vaping products.

Other report findings include:

• Sustained reduction in tobacco use—Oregon has experienced a 46% decrease in adult smoking rates and a 70% reduction in per-capita cigarette sales since TPEP’s inception in 1996.
• Community-centered solutions—TPEP has focused on addressing health inequities by investing more than 65% of its funding directly into local communities, supporting culturally relevant prevention and cessation programs.
• Youth-focused initiatives—The program has implemented strategies to reduce youth tobacco use, including anti-vaping education, mentorship programs and alternatives to suspension for nicotine use.

In 2021, the Oregon Legislature created the Tobacco Retail License Program to ensure compliance with sales laws. Since its inception, youth tobacco use has dropped from 26% in 2022 to 14% in 2024.

This video shows how Youth Adult Inspectors with OHA’s Tobacco Retail Licensing Program are getting involved in reducing retail sales to minors.

OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program has further implemented initiatives that have significantly decreased tobacco use among Oregonians.

This latest report underscores the program’s achievements and outlines ongoing initiatives aimed at improving health.

Key to the momentum behind the state’s tobacco reduction efforts has been the development of collaborative efforts with community partners to further reduce tobacco-related harm and promote health equity across the state.

One such partner, AntFarm, a community-based organization in rural Clackamas County, has a robust mentorship program to help youth quit tobacco. It does this by creating spaces and projects that give youth a sense of belonging.

Youth-created videos highlight the organization’s work.  

Kim Wheeler, director of Youth and Family Services at AntFarm, emphasized the importance of these efforts: “We empower youth and families to breathe freely, live strong and healthy lives while building a future without tobacco or vaping through bringing awareness and education to our communities,” she said. 

Quitting tobacco makes a difference – and quitting is different for everyone. That’s why there are a variety of free options across Oregon. 

• You can get free counseling with a coach by visiting the Oregon Tobacco Quitline, or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW, or texting “READY” to 34191.
• You can visit a pharmacist near you who will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan and provide follow up to see how the treatment plan is working.
• You can also learn how to quit in your own way, with or without the help of a coach or pharmacist, by visiting this

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024–2027 Strategic Plan.  

For more information about tobacco prevention visit the OHA website. 

 

More than six months after being listed for sale, Oregon’s renowned Mt. Bachelor will remain unsold.

Various reports indicate that POWDR, the resort’s parent company, has opted not to proceed with the sale. Mt. Bachelor, recognized as one of the most favored ski destinations in the United States, was put on the market last August.

The Utah-based company has owned the resort since 2001 and also listed Eldora Ski Resort in Colorado and SilverStar Mountain Resort in British Columbia for sale through JP Morgan Chase last year.

 

SALEM, Ore. — Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic upended the world, concerted state efforts to keep people covered have helped about 83% of Oregon Medicaid members maintain public health benefits, according to a new analysis of Oregon’s COVID-19 Federal Public Health Emergency Unwinding Project from Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

The years-long project wrapped up at the end of February and its final results were recently presented to the Oregon Health Policy Board.

“Over two years, OHA and ODHS teamed up to help a significant number of Oregonians maintain their essential health benefits following the pandemic,” said OHA Interim Director Kris Kautz. “Our thoughtful collaboration has made it possible for more people to receive the care they need to live healthy, full lives. I am tremendously proud of OHA and ODHS staff for this monumental accomplishment.” 

Jointly funded by states and the federal government, Medicaid provides no-cost health coverage to low-income adults, children, pregnant women, older adults, people with disabilities and others. Oregon Health Plan (OHP) is the state’s Medicaid program, and it covers nearly 1.5 million people — including a third of Oregon’s adults and half of its children. OHA manages OHP. ODHS helps people apply for benefits, determines applicant eligibility and provides maintenance of benefits through redeterminations.

“Access to health care is critical for people to take care of themselves, their families and our communities,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “By combining our efforts into one project, ODHS and OHA were far more effective in guiding people through the Medicaid renewals process, especially for those groups at higher risk of losing essential health care such as people with disabilities and older Oregonians.” 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were required to keep nearly all Medicaid members continuously enrolled between 2020 and 2023. Starting in the spring of 2023, federal legislation required states to resume normal processes to verify that enrolled members met Medicaid eligibility criteria. Oregon concluded its Medicaid renewal process last month.

Between April 1, 2023, and Feb. 28, 2025: 

• 1,169,042 Medicaid members in Oregon (80.3%) kept their full benefits.
• 40,563 people (2.8%) had benefits reduced. While these members lost full OHP coverage, they were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs, which help pay Medicare costs, or a dental-only Medicaid benefit.
• 247,104 people (16.9%) were found ineligible and ended benefits.
• 130,000 individuals who lost OHP coverage were referred to the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace to obtain private health insurance. During the same period, 32,363 consumers made Marketplace plan selections. It is important to note that not all Marketplace enrollment is attributable to OHP renewal determinations.

 

The Klamath National Forest reports April results above average in a snow survey that reflects state water availability.

Measurements from snow surveys forecast how much water will be available statewide for the volume of stream flow, agriculture, power generation and recreation. The national park says early April is the seasonal peak for measuring snowpack.  Klamath National Forest sits at 114% of average.

 

Oregon’s list of regulated hazardous substances is getting its first update in nearly two decades with the addition of six “forever chemicals” known to harm human health.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality on Tuesday announced it would add six perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, to the state’s list of more than 800 regulated contaminants and begin creating regulations to limit Oregonians’ exposure to them. 

The Environmental Quality Commission is expected to vote on adding the chemicals to the state’s list and adopting new regulations on or after May 21.

PFAS are human-made chemical chains used in products such as flame retardants, nonstick cookware and waterproof clothing that do not break down or go away naturally but instead have for decades leached into rivers and streams and contaminated soil, water and even air.

They are thought to now be in the blood of everyone in the U.S., according to research and testing from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and can lead to increased risks for cancers, heart damage, high cholesterol and birth defects, among other adverse health effects.

 

Klamath National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations to continue throughout the spring as weather conditions allow.

These prescribed fires help reduce overgrown vegetation and protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires. Prescribed fire areas may close to the public for several days for public safety. Watch for warning signs along roads near prescribed fire areas before and during burns. Residents may experience smoke during the prescribed burns.

Go to fire.airnow.gov for more about air quality. When driving, slow down and turn on headlights when you seeing smoke on the road.  Stay informed about the scheduled prescribed fires through the forest website, social media channels, and InciWeb, the interagency incident information system. 

 

Oregon Parks and Recreation is requesting feedback from the public regarding the state’s land and water trails.

An online survey has been launched to gather insights from trail users. The department invites contributions from all individuals who utilize the state’s trail network, including pedestrians, hikers, cyclists, equestrians, and boaters. The survey is accessible on the OPRD website.

 

A contingent of firefighters is returning to Oregon after assisting in the battle against the Black Cove wildfires in North Carolina.

According to the Oregon Department of Forestry, 39 firefighters have commenced their journey back to Oregon. Over the weekend, 26 firefighters made their return, followed by eight individuals who flew home on Monday, with one more scheduled to return on Tuesday. Additionally, four staff members from the Oregon Department of Forestry will remain in North Carolina to finalize operations related to the fires.

There exists a mutual agreement between Oregon and North Carolina to deploy firefighters when available. Currently, Oregon is experiencing a relatively calm wildfire season, allowing for the availability of crews. Last year, North Carolina provided assistance to Oregon during its unprecedented fire season.

 

It’s molting season for elephant seals, and Oregon beachgoers are being urged to “share the shore.”

Signs have recently gone up in Seaside advising residents to remain at least 100 yards away from the seals after a young elephant seal was found sunbathing there yesterday. The molting process requires elephant seals to rest on land for multiple weeks while they shed their old coats and grow new ones. Elephant seals can be extra irritable during the molting process.

 

FBI launching ‘surge’ in Oregon, other states to investigate unsolved crimes in Native American communities

The FBI, now headed by Cash Patel says information they’ve gathered has seen a surge in unsolved crimes in Native American communities, including Oregon.

The FBI is sending extra agents, analysts and other personnel to field offices in Oregon and nine other states over the next six months to help investigate unsolved violent crimes in Indian Country, marking a continuation of efforts by the federal government to address high rates of violence affecting Native American communities.

The U.S. Justice Department announced Tuesday that the temporary duty assignments began immediately and will rotate every 90 days in field offices that include Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Phoenix, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, and Jackson, Mississippi.

The FBI will be working with the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, tribal authorities and federal prosecutors in each of the states.

In 2023, the Justice Department established its Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons outreach program, dispatching more attorneys and coordinators to certain regions to help with unsolved cases. In past years, the FBI’s Operation Not Forgotten had deployed about 50 people. This year, it’s 60. (SOURCE)

 

The Oregon Department of Human Services has launched the Brain Injury Program.

It’s intended to help people with brain injuries, and their families, navigate access to services and support. Brain injuries are increasing. In 2023, there were over 38-thousand brain injuries in Oregon with 17-hundred fatalities. The Brain Injury Program can help with advocacy, options counseling, resource navigation, and service coordination.

 

The State of Oregon is releasing free, permit-ready plans for building a deck.

It’s part of the Permit-Ready Plans Program. Later this year, plans will be released for pole buildings, detached garages, patio covers, and carports.

The Oregon Building Codes Division will start developing plans for smaller detached dwelling units by the end of 2025. The plans are available online at the Permit-Ready Plans Program website.

 

Jackson County is gearing up to welcome visitors to Emigrant Lake this summer, with the lake nearly replenished after several years of low water levels.

Steve Lambert, the Roads and Parks Director for Jackson County, shared exciting updates about the upcoming season, which promises a mix of outdoor recreation, new concessions, and renovated park facilities. The resurgence of the lake will also help the popular non-motorized watercraft rentals, including paddleboards and kayaks, which had struggled during the low-water years. 

The county is actively seeking new business partners to provide food, beverage, and non-motorized watercraft rentals, a service that was previously offered when the lake had better water levels. The last concessionaire at Emigrant Lake was successful in offering rentals and lessons for paddleboards, and Lambert is optimistic about finding a new partner to continue this tradition.

In preparation for the influx of visitors, Jackson County has also been working on improving park facilities. New infrastructure, including replacement sidewalks, staircases and a renovated Oak Slope Tent Campground.

 

Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed April 2025 to be Oregon Arbor Month throughout the state.

This year’s proclamation recognizes the importance to neighborhoods of urban trees as cities add housing and rapidly densify. The proclamation states that “Trees play an integral role in fostering healthy communities,” adding that urban development and the preservation of trees demands a careful balance.   

Oregon Dept. of Forestry Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager Scott Altenhoff said “Replacing those trees will require us to pick up the pace not only of planting but also of ensuring nurseries have the capacity to grow the numbers and types of trees needed that are resilient to climate change and resistant to serious pests and diseases.” He added that it is equally important to grow and diversify the workforce in urban forestry.

Altenhoff said there is growing recognition, as cited in the proclamation, that the benefits of tree canopy have been unevenly distributed in the state. “Many low-income areas and those with large populations of people of color have fewer large shade trees than more affluent neighborhoods. Research has shown that having fewer large shade trees in those lower-canopy neighborhoods is strongly associated with increased deaths from heart disease and poor health outcomes.”

 

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s office has heard from thousands of Oregonians concerned with utility rate increases that have gone up for most by about 50% in the last five years.

Kotek detailed this and her own concerns in a March 20 letter to the three governor-appointed chairs and executive director of the Oregon Public Utility Commission, which is charged with regulating the rates of investor-owned, monopoly electric and gas utilities operating in the state.  She also laid out her expectations for the commission in the letter, including honoring the state’s climate commitments while considering requests for rate increases from utilities.

She asked that members provide information by Aug. 1 about their ability going forward to keep electricity and gas services affordable for Oregonians, handle the impacts of new heavy users such as data centers and ensure sound investments are being made in modernizing grid and distribution systems so Oregonians get reliable energy deliveries. 

Kotek acknowledged both electric and natural gas utilities have and continue to face increasing insurance costs from the threat of catastrophic wildfires, inflationary pressures and volatile fuel prices. Everyday customers face those challenges, too.  NW Natural, the state’s largest private gas utility, turned off gas to 376 Oregonians in 2024 – a 30% increase since 2023.

In the last five years, residential rates for customers of all three utilities have risen by about 50%, and the Oregon’s Public Utility Commission has approved rate hikes requested by the utilities nearly every year.

 

Oregonians who intend to fly in the near future and have not yet obtained a REAL ID driver’s license are facing a time crunch, as wait times at DMV offices are surging due to increased demand.

Following the May 7 deadline, the Transportation Security Administration will mandate a REAL ID or an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to pass through security at U.S. airports. This impending deadline has been anticipated for quite some time.

The REAL ID Act, enacted by Congress in 2005, prohibits the use of state-issued IDs that do not meet new federal minimum standards for personal identification. However, the implementation of this law is only now occurring, two decades later. Consequently, the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services reports that walk-in wait times at DMV offices can now extend for several hours.

 

Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.

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