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.
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Mostly sunny with a high near 63 degrees. Northwest wind 10 to 14 mph. Overnight mostly clear, with a low around 34.
See Road Camera Views around the Klamath Basin:
Lake of the Woods
Doak Mtn.
Hiway 97 at Chemult
Hiway 140 at Bly
Hiway 97 at GreenSprings Dr.
Hiway 97 at LaPine
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
This week, two new lawsuits have been initiated against Asante and Dani Schofield, a former nurse at Asante accused of diverting medications and substituting them with tap water.
The first lawsuit, filed on April 10, 2025, names Benjamin Callesen as the plaintiff. He alleges that he contracted an infection while under Schofield’s care at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. Additionally, a resident of Klamath Falls reportedly died while also being treated by Schofield.
The Callesen lawsuit states that he was admitted to RRMC on April 13, 2023, for an appendectomy and returned on April 18 due to pain, which was later identified as an infection caused by a waterborne bacteria typically found in tap water.
The lawsuit seeks $7.2 million in damages, with $7 million designated for pain and suffering and an additional $200,000 for estimated medical expenses.
The following day, April 11, 2025, another civil suit was filed against Asante and Schofield, with Patrick Bartlett as the plaintiff, representing the estate of his deceased family member, Robin Bartlett. This second suit alleges that Robin Bartlett was admitted to RRMC on May 21, 2023, where she was intubated and sedated, receiving fentanyl and other medications administered by Schofield in the intensive care unit. She passed away the next day, with the lawsuit asserting that she exhibited clear signs of infection.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal has announced the recipients of the 2025 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant.
Now in its fourth year, this funding supports local fire agencies, many of which depend on volunteer personnel, in hiring additional firefighters for the wildfire season.
Among the local recipients are Bly RFD, Crescent Fire, Chiloquin, Chemult, Lakeview, the Klamath County Fire Districts, Merrill, Rocky Point, and others.
These seasonal hires enhance emergency response capabilities in over 200 agencies statewide, addressing both wildfire incidents and routine emergencies. Local fire agencies could apply for grants of up to $35,000 to bolster their staffing during the fire season. Each summer, this initiative contributes more than 1,500 firefighters throughout Oregon.
This year, the Oregon legislature allocated $6 million to the program. Since its inception in 2022, the grant has emerged as an essential tool for improving preparedness, response effectiveness, and overall community safety amid Oregon’s increasingly severe wildfire seasons.
On Sunday, April 13, 2025, Lieutenant Steve Lewis from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office received a report regarding a horse trapped in deep mud in a secluded area near Bly, Oregon.
The call originated from concerned bystanders at the scene who were unable to free the horse and had limited cell phone reception.
In a Facebook post, the KCSO says the following: “Deputy Steve Leslie, a Forest Patrol Deputy responsible for that region, was promptly dispatched to evaluate the situation. Given the remote location—over 75 minutes from central Klamath County—and the urgency of the situation, we reached out to Southern Oregon Emergency Aid (SOEA), a nonprofit organization that specializes in large animal technical rescues. Board members Maria Meister and Kris Oyler quickly mobilized, gathering necessary equipment and heading to the site. While en route, they coordinated with Deputy Leslie, who provided directions to the isolated location. They also contacted the horse’s owner, who informed them that the mare was still saddled and trapped in a bog. The rescue team requested that the saddle remain on the mare to assist with any necessary strapping. The terrain posed significant challenges, featuring concealed bogs, cold streams, large boulders, and thick underbrush—all situated within a burn scar from the 2021 Bootleg Fire. With assistance from local volunteer firefighter Quentin Nichols and Sara from the Bly Fire Department, the team employed specialized strapping and a Fiddle Block pulley system to carefully reposition the mare. Despite several attempts to rise, she struggled and became increasingly cold and fatigued. In collaboration with Rebecca Gimenez Husted of Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER), the team focused on keeping the mare warm and in a sternal position, utilizing available blankets and materials. Local hay was procured to encourage her to eat and maintain her strength. As night approached and the risk from wildlife increased, the team evaluated all possible options. After a period of rest and a final coordinated effort, Jazz made a significant attempt and successfully stood on her own. She was then carefully walked to the trailer and transported—untied for safety—to a local veterinarian in Klamath Falls.”
We’ll keep you updated on this story.
On Saturday the Easter Bunny will be making an appearance at the Ella Redkey Pool for a family-oriented aqua egg hunt.
This annual event, lasting three hours, is open to participants of all ages and will be organized in stages according to age groups, starting from as young as 3 years old up to 14 and beyond.
For the younger swimmers, eggs will be hidden in the shallower areas of the pool, while older participants will search in progressively deeper sections.
For those seeking a challenge, the Easter Bunny will also be concealing golf balls at the bottom of the pool, which will require diving to retrieve. Each egg discovered can be exchanged with the staff at Ella Redkey for candy or other prizes.
Join the hunt at the Ella Redkey Pool beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 19. Admission is $5, and participants are encouraged to bring their own egg basket or bag.
Additional Easter egg hunts in the Basin include: – United Church, 3333 Beverly Drive, Klamath Falls, Saturday at 10 a.m. – Happy Hippos Daycare, Moore Park, Klamath Falls, Saturday at 10 a.m. – Pelican Pointe Assisted Living, 615 Washburn Way, Klamath Falls, Saturday at 10 a.m. – K&K Espresso & Deli, Merrill Civic Center, Merrill, Saturday at 11 a.m. – First Church of God, 2802 Altamont Drive, Klamath Falls, Saturday at 2 p.m. – Crater Lake Resort, Sunday at 1 p.m.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, Sky Lakes is taking proactive measures to ensure optimal patient care and experience.
One such measure is the establishment of a strategic partnership with IKS Health, a firm that collaborates with prominent healthcare organizations nationwide to minimize administrative burdens, enhance operational efficiency, and allow clinicians to concentrate more fully on patient care.
While this initiative is essential, it will unfortunately result in some workforce reductions. Approximately 70 employees will be affected, mainly within the patient financial services and coding departments.
In a news release, the hospital says they recognize the profound impact this will have on these individuals, many of whom have been dedicated members of the Sky Lakes team for years. The Human Resources department is committed to facilitating this transition by providing severance packages, continuing benefits, and assistance with job searches, including opportunities within Sky Lakes. This decision was made after careful consideration. Sky Lakes must continue to adopt new technologies and best practices to better serve our community.
IKS Health brings 40 years of expertise and has earned the trust of leading healthcare organizations such as Kaiser Permanente, Scripps, and Mass General. The IKS technology platform automates and streamlines administrative, clinical, and operational processes, thereby enhancing patient care and allowing clinicians to focus on their patients.
The Joint Ways and Means Committee of the Oregon Legislature is scheduled to convene at Klamath Community College on Friday, April 25th from 5 to 7 p.m. in the commons area of Building 4.
Comprising 23 members, the committee is dedicated to overseeing state budget expenditures and will receive testimonies from local officials, students, and community members.
Dr. Roberto Gutierrez, President of KCC, along with other representatives from the college, will present information regarding funding for a new School of Cosmetology facility. Additionally, Klamath County Commissioner Derrick DeGroot and Donalda Dodson, CEO of the Oregon Child Development Coalition, will address plans for a proposed Childcare Learning Center on the campus.
The City of Klamath Falls Streets Division will be performing routine maintenance on the Fremont Bridge this week.
For the safety of the crew working on-site, the southeast lane of the bridge will be closed during this time. Work will take place in the morning hours, and traffic control measures, including signage and flaggers, will be in place to direct motorists and ensure safety.
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and use alternate routes if possible to avoid delays and minimize congestion in the area. The City appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as crews complete this important maintenance work. For questions or additional information, please contact Development Services at 541-883-4950.
Shasta Way, Avalon Street Traffic Control
The City of Klamath Falls road department reminds you that intermittently for the next three months, the Shasta Way / Avalon Street intersection and Avalon Street north of Shasta Way will be subject to lane closures.
This section of Avalon Street will be closed to through traffic, allowing only businesses and residents who reside on Avalon Street to have access. Flaggers and the appropriate signs will be in place to control traffic and maximize safety. These closures will occur from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day. Motorists are encouraged to avoid this area, if possible, to minimize congestion. Any questions can be directed to Dan Hendrickson, at 858-568-0123 or dhendrickson@ewbinc.com.
The Assistance League® of Klamath Basin (ALKB) announced Friday a $5,000 grant received from the Klamath County Rotary Club.
This funding will directly support ALKB’s philanthropic programs, most notably Operation School Bell. The support will make a significant difference in the lives of local students, helping them to thrive in school and beyond.
ALKB volunteers transform the lives of children through its community programs. Operation School Bell provides new clothing and necessities to around 1,600 under-resourced students in grades K-12 throughout the Klamath Basin. This program addresses a critical need, ensuring students have the resources to promote their health, learning, school attendance and self-worth. This grant enables ALKB to serve even more children in the community.
The Klamath Rotary Club is committed to supporting community-based nonprofits and other organizations that serve children with low-and-moderate incomes. Its partnership with ALKB underscores its dedication to improving the lives of these children in the Klamath Basin.
To learn more about the Assistance League, please visit ALKB’s website, https://www.klamathbasinassistanceleague.org/ or visit its Facebook page.
CITY OF KLAMATH FALLS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR PARKS CONCESSIONS
The City of Klamath Falls is now accepting applications for the Parks Concession program for 2025. This exciting program will bring a variety of food and beverage options to select City parks, enhancing the overall experience for park patrons. Food Trucks, Trailers, and Cart owners have the opportunity to request a space at one of our beautiful City parks.
This program aims to provide convenient food and drink options for park visitors while also supporting local
businesses. Space at the parks will be limited, so interested vendors are encouraged to apply early. The City will review all applications and select a diverse group of vendors that offer a range of food and beverage options. Vendors must meet certain criteria and adhere to all health and safety regulations set by the City and partner agencies.
The Parks Concession program is just one of many initiatives the City is implementing to enhance the quality of life for its residents. Klamath Falls’ parks are already popular destinations, and this program will add amenities to make our parks more enjoyable. For more information on how to apply as a vendor or any other inquiries about this program, please visit https://www.klamathfalls.city/1503/Parks-Concession-Pilot-Program or contact the Development Services Department at (541) 883-4950.
Personal use fuelwood cutting permits for the BLM Klamath Falls Field Office are now available for purchase both online and in-person.
In-person purchases can be made at the Klamath Falls Field Office, located at 2795 Anderson Avenue, Building #25, Klamath Falls, OR 97603.
To obtain a fuelwood permit online, visit https://forestproducts.blm.gov/, select Oregon, choose the appropriate Field Office, and then click on Fuelwood.
Complete and submit the application form, providing your credit or debit card details. Your payment will be processed within minutes, after which you can print your permit. An email will also be sent to you containing maps, stipulations, load tags, and necessary documentation for safely cutting and removing products from BLM land. Please note that all purchased permits are final and non-refundable.
These fuelwood cutting permits are intended for personal use only. The fee for a fuelwood permit is $5 per cord, with a minimum purchase of two cords and a maximum of eight cords per household per year. Permits remain valid for the entire calendar year.
A two-day celebration featuring live music, art, the film “World Without Cows,” and narratives designed to enhance understanding of the values inherent in the American West is scheduled for Friday and Saturday at the Ross Ragland Theater as part of the “Western Heritage” events.
Organized by the Klamath County Cattlewomen, this complimentary event aims to “examine how different forms of art and media shape our history and influence our future. The objective is to encourage participants from diverse backgrounds to contribute their creativity and insights, thereby showcasing the Klamath Basin and the American West,” as stated in information provided by the Ragland.
The festivities will commence at 5 p.m. on Friday, with the doors of the Ragland’s Cultural Center opening for an exhibition by the Klamath Art Association and vendor sales.
Additionally, “Buckaroo Country,” a photographic presentation by Klamath Falls photographer Mary Hyde, will be featured at the Cultural Center throughout both days.
The exhibits will “illustrate how local artists infuse meaning and significance into specific geographic locations within our environment, transforming physical spaces into ‘places’ that carry cultural importance, reflecting shared history, identity, and practices, often through landmarks, rituals, stories, and everyday experiences,” according to the website.
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.
This week’s pet is a kitty named ” Thor ” at Klamath Animal Shelter
Thor is a male Maine Coon mix, around 10 months old, is a brown, black and white tabby, with yellow green eyes. Around the State of Oregon
On Sunday, April 13, 2025, Grants Pass Police officers and detectives arrested James Ross, a 30-year-old Grants Pass resident, at the Robertson Bridge Boat Landing and lodged him at the Josephine County Jail for second-degree Murder and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
Ross was being sought for a homicide that occurred on March 4, 2025, at about 3:00 am when a 57-year-old male was transported to Three Rivers Medical Center from the 1200 block of Rogue River Highway with significant head trauma.
The victim succumbed to his injuries several weeks later. Due to the nature of the incident, the case was transferred to the Major Crimes Unit for investigation. Ross was identified as the suspect, and his whereabouts were unknown. Grants Pass detectives conducted multiple interviews and used other investigative methods to build their case while actively seeking Ross. The arrest was made without incident.
Further questions about this case should be directed to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.
SEIZURES AND ARRESTS MADE IN MULTI-AGENCY DRUG TRAFFICKING CASE
Last week, the Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement team (MADGE) served a search warrant as a residence on Ponderosa Way in Eagle Point., following a two-month investigation into cocaine distribution. The investigation was initiated after multiple community complaints were received.
During the warrant execution, investigators seized more than 100 grams of cocaine, eight firearms (including “ghost guns”), approximately $48,000 in cash, four vehicles, and one motorcycle. The two residents were taken into custody and lodged at the Jackson County jail.
Arrested:
- Ulysses Timothy Chappel III, 55 – Charged with Unlawful Possession, Delivery, and Manufacture of Cocaine. Also charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
- Stacy Lyn Cramer, 52 – Charged with Unlawful Possession, Delivery, and Manufacture of Cocaine.
The MADGE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-support approach. MADGE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), which is composed of members from the Medford Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Point Police Department, Oregon State Police, the District Attorney’s Office, Parole and Probation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the FBI.
Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 4.6% in March
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.6% in March and 4.5% in February, after rising gradually over the past year from 4.1% in March 2024. Oregon’s 4.6% unemployment rate was the highest since August 2021, when the rate was 4.7%, and slightly higher than during the three years prior to the COVID recession that started in 2020. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in March and 4.1% in February.
In March, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 7,300 jobs, following a revised gain of 1,600 jobs in February. March’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+4,600 jobs); professional and business services (+1,000); other services (+800); and wholesale trade (+700). None of the other major industries had a job change of more than 400 jobs.
The return of workers who were on strike at a major health care provider contributed to the one-month gain of 4,600 jobs in health care and social assistance during March. This industry has been leading private-sector job growth in Oregon over the past few years. It added 18,400 jobs, or 6.2%, in the 12 months through March, continuing a three-year streak of rapid growth.
Professional and business services added jobs in each of the first three months of the year, with gains totaling 4,500 jobs in that time. This reversed a generally declining trend in the industry during the prior two years when it shed 5,400 jobs during the 24 months ending December 2024.
Other services – an industry which includes religious organizations, membership associations, personal services, laundry services, and repair and maintenance services – has expanded steadily for more than four years. It employed 69,300 in March and is now well above its pre-pandemic high of 65,700 jobs in January 2020.
Lawmakers Move to Limit Rent Increases in Manufactured Home Parks and Marinas
Economists say rent caps stifle development but leading legislators say some renters are captive and easily exploited.
CHIEF SPONSOR: State Rep. Pam Marsh (D-Ashland), along with 19 Democratic co-sponsors (and zero Republicans)
WHAT IT WOULD DO: HB 3054 takes a concept Oregon lawmakers love and economists hate—rent control—and ratchets it downward in two specific sectors of the housing market: marinas and manufactured home parks. Following on the heels of 2019 and 2023 bills that enacted and subsequently lowered the nation’s first statewide rent controls, HB 3054 would limit annual rent increases at parks and marinas of more than 30 homes to 6%. It would limit rent increases in parks with 30 or fewer homes to 10%, or 7% plus inflation, whichever is lower.
PROBLEM IT SEEKS TO SOLVE: People who live aboard floating homes and in manufactured home parks often own their homes but rent either dock space or the ground upon which their homes rest. Residents of manufactured homes, which make up 7% or so of Oregon’s housing stock, tend to earn modest paychecks and are often seniors living on fixed incomes. Lawmakers say they are among the state’s most economically vulnerable residents and easily exploited.
Two gun owners from Harney County, supported by Gun Owners of America Inc., have submitted a petition to the Oregon Supreme Court to determine whether the voter-approved gun control Measure 114 complies with the state constitution.
Their attorney, Tony L. Aiello Jr., contends that the state’s highest court should provide clarification on Article 1, Section 27 of the Oregon Constitution, which guarantees the right to bear arms. In a 24-page petition, Aiello asserted that the measure’s requirement for a permit to purchase a firearm would effectively transform the constitutional right to bear arms into a privilege that the government could grant or deny.
The gun control measure was narrowly approved by voters in November 2022, receiving 50.7% of the vote; however, its implementation has been stalled due to the ongoing legal challenge from the gun owners.
BLM Reopens Rogue River Trail
Medford, Oregon – The Bureau of Land Management is re-opening the Rogue River National Recreation Trail after crews created a path around a large landslide.
Wildland firefighters from BLM’s Veteran Crew 10, along with BLM recreation staff, were able to clear the landslide and re-route the trail around a large boulder. The crews also removed several downed trees and addressed other issues along the first few miles of the trail.
The trail is rated as difficult due to the remote nature of the trail, tall cliffs, the potential for downed trees, landslides and high water in creeks.
Hikers may still encounter smaller landslides, unstable footing, erosion of trail tread, and other storm-related impacts along the trail. If you find damage on BLM lands, please report it to the Medford District Office at 541-618-2200.
“The Rogue River Trail is beautiful this time of year and we worked hard to open it as quickly as possible,” said Justin Kelly, Grants Pass Field Manager. “Please watch out for additional hazards as you enjoy your public lands.”
The Rogue River National Recreation Trail traverses the wild section of the Lower Rogue National Wild and Scenic River along its entire length. Stretching 40 miles between Grave Creek and Big Bend, the trail offers some of southwestern Oregon’s most amazing landscapes and rewarding hiking experiences. Majestic steep canyon walls, cascading waterfalls, and glistening streams are just a glimpse of the magnificent scenery in the Wild Rogue Canyon.
Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) Director Michael Reese has announced the appointment of Charlotte Thrasher as the new Superintendent of Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF), effective June 23, 2025.
Ms. Thrasher’s career in corrections began in 1998 during her college internship. Over the past 27 years, she has gained extensive experience in Community Corrections, Prisons, and at the Washington Department of Corrections Headquarters.
Starting as a Correctional Officer, she has progressed through various leadership roles in multiple facilities across Washington. Most recently, she held the position of Superintendent at the Washington Corrections Center for Women. During her tenure at the Washington Corrections Center for Women, Ms. Thrasher implemented several impactful programs aimed at addressing criminogenic needs with compassion and hope. She advocates for progressive approaches, dynamic security, and the establishment of safe and humane systems to facilitate the reintegration of incarcerated individuals into society.
Additionally, she is dedicated to ensuring staff safety and prioritizes security measures within the facility. Currently, she serves as the west side Incident Commander for the Department Incident Management Team and has provided emergency management support during significant events both within and outside the Washington DOC.
The recent city council meeting has led to enhanced safety measures on the streets surrounding two schools in Lakeview.
Earlier this week, council members reached a unanimous decision to establish a new school zone, addressing concerns raised by advocates for student safety and various community members. This designated zone will be located along North Second Street, in proximity to Cornerstone Christian School and Little One Christian Preschool.
The speed limit in this area has already been reduced to 20 miles per hour during school hours and when children are present. Future improvements will include the installation of new signage to inform drivers of the school zone regulations during these times. Additionally, during the meeting, council members deliberated on collaborating with local law enforcement to ensure adherence to these new safety measures.
Foxes suspected of having rabies have been implicated in several attacks on individuals and pets in Josephine County.
Over the past eight weeks, deputies have responded to eight separate incidents. Four individuals were recommended to seek prompt medical care. Five foxes were captured for testing, and it has been confirmed that they tested positive for rabies. Unfortunately, the other three foxes were not located.
Officials in Josephine County urge the public to remain alert and to keep both people and pets at a safe distance from wildlife. As foxes are primarily active at night, any daytime sightings should be regarded as unusual.
Last year, there was a decrease in youth smoking rates in Oregon.
The Oregon Health Authority published its annual report indicating a 12 percent reduction in youth smoking from 2022 to the previous year. Approximately 14 percent of minors are reported to smoke. In 2021, the Legislature established the Tobacco Retail License Program to ensure that retailers comply with sales regulations and do not sell tobacco products to minors.
Barry Manilow has revealed his Last Concert tour, which now includes Portland among its destinations.
The tour will kick off in Spokane on July 11th, with a performance scheduled in Portland at the Moda Center on July 16th. Manilow is a celebrated artist, having received Grammy, Tony, and Emmy awards. Tickets are currently available for purchase.
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.
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 benefits lost 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.
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.
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.
Ready to Advertise? Let us get the word out for your business! We offer more local advertising opportunities than any one in the Klamath Basin.
Call BasinLife.com at 541-363-7503. Or email us today at INFO@BasinLife.com with your name, business, and what you’re looking for. We’ll customize a plan fit for your budget.
You can receive Daily Radio Mentions across our 6 stations, Articles, direct link Banner Ads, floating Banner Ads on hundreds of article pages daily, Social Media Posts and also available are Email Blasts to thousands of local residents.
We can also keep you updated with the latest smart digital marketing strategies for 2025 for your business. BasinLife.com is still the best value in the Klamath Basin for advertising, now in our 9th year promoting businesses in Southern Oregon.
For information or prices on plans, simply call us today at 541-363-7503 or email us at Info@BasinLife.com. Let us keep your business top-of -mind!