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Friday, May 2, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

Today
A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm, high near 75 degrees. Light southwest wind 6-11 mph.  Possible evening showers and overnight, a slight chance of showers, low near 43. Gusty winds 10-25 mph. 

 

 

Around the State of Oregon

The newest liberal to run Oregon’s biggest city, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, will deliver his first annual State of the City address this afternoon (Friday) at Franklin High School, an event hosted by the City Club of Portland.

He will attempt to tame the crises that continue to grow in Portland and the surrounding region.

Let’s start with massive crime, homelessness, and a city in debt.

Portland’s budget that takes effect on July 1 faces a $93 million general fund shortfall that is growing by the month, and the Trump Administration is threatening traditional funding sources, promising to cut additional federal funds from sanctuary cities like Portland that protect the overflowing number of recently arrived migrants. Others in the region – including Multnomah County, TriMet, Portland Public Schools and Metro – are also facing budget shortfalls that could reduce services in Portland.

Wilson says “Portland will stand up to the Trump Administration’s efforts to penalize sanctuary cities”.  Wilson added “Portland stands unwavering in its commitment to sanctuary policies, rooted in the belief that every resident, including immigrants, deserves dignity, respect, and protection. The city of Portland fully complies with all applicable federal and state laws and will not obstruct lawful federal enforcement operations. Importantly, our police officers will not be used as agents of ICE (Immigration, Customs and Enforcement),” Wilson said.

Added to the pressure is the fact that Portland is transitioning to a new form of government approved by the voter in November 2020. The City Council has increased from five citywide elected members to 12 councilors elected from four new geographic zones. Bureaus are no longer overseen by council members but managed by a professional city administrator. The mayor can only vote to break a tie. Stay tuned.

 

The Attorney General of Oregon is collaborating with 19 other liberal states in a legal action against the Trump Administration concerning educational funding.

The U.S. Department of Education has warned school districts that they may face funding cuts if they fail to adhere to the administration’s new regulations prohibiting diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.

Attorney General Dan Rayfield asserts that the actions taken by Trump contravene multiple federal statutes. Annually, Oregon receives approximately $437 million dollars from the U.S. Department of Education.

 

In Washington D. C, the Democratic Party is currently seeking to regain its stability following the Republican takeover of Congress and the White House in the recent November elections.

In the meantime, four U.S. Senate Democrats have declared their intentions to retire, such as Dick Durbin, 80, from Illinois.

However, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden has confirmed that he intends to remain in office. As the senior member of Oregon’s congressional delegation, Wyden is preparing to run for reelection in 2028.

Wyden will celebrate his 76th birthday on Saturday and would be 79 at the time of the next election.

Oregon’s other Democrat, U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, is up for reelection in 2026 for the seat the East Portland resident and former Oregon House speaker first won in 2008. Merkley, a member of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee turns 70 soon, and speculation remains whether he will run again or announce retirement.

 

The Linn County Sheriff has announced that deputies apprehended a 17-year-old individual from Scio on Tuesday, facing charges related to threats of a school shooting.

The incident was reported to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at approximately 5:30 PM on Monday, following an email sent by a teacher to the principal of Scio High School regarding the matter.

Staff from Scio High School, deputies from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and the family of the juvenile collaborated to ensure that no one was in immediate danger as a result of the threat, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

The juvenile acknowledged making comments about shooting individuals at the school but claimed that these remarks were not intended to be taken seriously, as reported by authorities. The juvenile was subsequently arrested and transported to the Linn Benton Juvenile Detention Center, facing charges of Disorderly Conduct in the First Degree.

 

According to a recent energy forecast from regional experts, electricity demand in the Northwest may potentially double by the year 2046.

Over the next twenty years, it is anticipated that demand could rise annually by a rate ranging from 1.8% to 3.1%, as reported to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council on Tuesday. This anticipated increase is largely attributed to the establishment of additional data centers in the region, the growing number of electric vehicles on the roads, the electrification of buildings, advancements in computer chip manufacturing, and the production of ‘green hydrogen’ through the process of applying an electrical current to water to separate it into hydrogen and oxygen.

On Tuesday, council staff presented this 20-year electricity demand forecast for Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and western Montana to the council’s eight members, who are appointed by the governors of each state, with each governor selecting two representatives.

The demand for residential and commercial energy, which encompasses the projected energy needs for electric vehicle charging at homes and buildings but excludes data centers, is expected to experience a more gradual increase.

Notably, the demand for residential and commercial energy in Washington alone is projected to match the total demand from these sectors in Oregon, Idaho, and Montana over the next two decades.

 

Physicians in Oregon are advocating for the state Senate to approve Senate Bill 539, which seeks to shield patients from concealed medical charges.

They argue that these ‘facility fees’ may discourage individuals from pursuing essential medical care due to unforeseen expenses. The discussion surrounding Senate Bill 539 is becoming more heated as the Hospital Association of Oregon expresses apprehensions regarding its possible repercussions.

The association contends that the legislation could jeopardize the stability of Oregon’s healthcare system by abolishing facility fees, which are vital for the operation of numerous hospitals. They assert that hospital-based facilities, which frequently cater to patients with intricate needs, differ significantly from independent physician practices. These facilities adhere to stringent licensing requirements and are responsible for managing emergency transfers within their healthcare network.

The association claims that SB 539 unfairly penalizes these institutions, potentially resulting in closures and a reduction in services, particularly in rural regions. Having already passed through the Senate Committee on Health Care earlier this month, the bill is now poised for a vote in the full Senate. Furthermore, the Hospital Association of Oregon has emphasized that SB 539 ‘will further destabilize the state’s fragile healthcare system, diminishing patient access to care. Many are seeking partners to maintain financial viability.’

 

Scholars from the University of Oregon caution that in the event of a significant Cascadia earthquake affecting the state, residents should be concerned not only about the seismic activity but also about its broader implications.

A research article featured in the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” forecasts that such an earthquake could lead to flooding extending over 100 miles inland. It also indicates that coastal areas may experience subsidence of up to six and a half feet. Furthermore, the study anticipates that increasing sea levels due to climate change will exacerbate the risks associated with a potential earthquake.

 

A newly curated firearms exhibition has been inaugurated at the Lake County Museum in Lakeview, coinciding with its summer opening on Thursday.

Museum director Marie Lee announced that the firearms have been relocated to the Schminck house to enhance the presentation of the collection. The firearms will now be displayed on the main floor within Dalph Schminck’s library, a move intended to improve accessibility, lighting, and visibility.

Lee remarked that the museum’s ‘small but significant display of firearms tends to attract more male visitors, with a few female admirers. During my initial season as curator, two portable machine guns were kept hidden away in a nearby closet. However, I often showcased them to those who showed particular interest. On one occasion, a visitor offered to relocate the guns to a more visible area, and since they were too heavy for me to manage, I gladly accepted his assistance’.

Among the collection is a World War I machine gun, a donation from Pearl Hall to Dalph Schminck, which Lee describes as ‘an intriguing German model featuring a large water cylinder for barrel cooling.’ Additionally, there is an air-cooled American model from World War II, salvaged from an aircraft wreck. These historical moments will be commemorated later this year, from June 13 to June 21, during the Pacific Primitive Rendezvous along the Chewaucan River near Paisley.

This event aims to recreate the fur trading rendezvous that occurred between 1825 and 1840. Lee emphasized that contemporary gatherings are ‘meticulously regulated by black powder clubs’ as they aim to replicate the original activities involving muzzle-loading firearms, shotguns, knife and tomahawk throwing, primitive archery, cooking, dancing, and storytelling.

 

Natural disasters affect not only physical safety but also have a profound impact on mental health.

As communities throughout Oregon recognize Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Oregon Office of Emergency Management is urging individuals, responders, and communities to prioritize emotional well-being before, during, and after emergencies. Events such as hurricanes, wildfires, pandemics, and other crises can disrupt lives in unforeseen ways.

Survivors may suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, often face the greatest challenges. Additionally, first responders endure cumulative stress, which heightens the risk of burnout and secondary trauma.

Seeking assistance during crises can be difficult due to various barriers. For those affected by disasters, issues such as housing instability and financial strain can exacerbate emotional distress. Acknowledging and addressing these difficulties is essential for enhancing mental health outcomes. Although disasters cannot always be averted, individuals can take proactive measures to lessen their mental health effects.

Developing a disaster plan and maintaining emergency supplies can help reduce anxiety. For further information on preparedness, visit the Be2Weeks Ready webpage.

 

 

On Monday, Medford Police Department (MPD) responded to a disturbance reported at Jackson County Community Justice on W. Main Street.

Officers discovered that a male suspect, identified as Alfred W. Mabrier, 47, had allegedly stolen a black Honda Civic from a female acquaintance following a domestic incident and fled the scene recklessly, resulting in several hit-and-run accidents.

They located the stolen vehicle traveling south on So. Pacific Highway and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Mabrier evaded the deputy at high speeds, driving dangerously through South Medford, Phoenix, Talent, and into Ashland, where he rear-ended another vehicle and continued to flee. JCSO deputies subsequently terminated their pursuit as the vehicle entered Ashland. Mabrier’s reckless driving culminated in a crash at the intersection of Main and Maple Streets in Ashland. He fled on foot but was swiftly apprehended.

Mabrier faces multiple charges from MPD and JCSO, including: MPD Charges (Case 25-7014, Lodged): Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Recklessly Endangering, Assault IV (Domestic Violence), Harassment (Domestic Violence), Theft 1, Reckless Driving, Robbery 3, Hit and Run (x2), Disorderly Conduct, Detainer. JCSO Charges (Case 25-2262, Cited and Released): Eluding, Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering, Hit and Run (x2, Felonies), Resisting Arrest.

The Medford Police Department and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office commend the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies for the safe apprehension of the suspect. The investigation remains ongoing.

 

Governor Tina Kotek has announced a $10 million investment aimed at developing the artificial intelligence (AI) workforce, in conjunction with a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the State of Oregon and chipmaker, NVIDIA.

This initiative seeks to enhance AI education and skill development. The announcement was made during her speech at the Northwest Breakfast Forum, organized by SEMI, an association representing the semiconductor, electronics design, and manufacturing supply chain sectors.

The MOU creates a partnership framework for Oregon and NVIDIA to promote entrepreneurship and expand AI-centric education and skill development, preparing Oregonians for future opportunities while assisting state agencies in identifying responsible AI applications to enhance government services. As part of this collaboration, NVIDIA will partner with the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) and Oregon’s higher education institutions to establish an AI Ambassador Program, which will deploy trained ambassadors across campuses to offer practical training and mentorship to students. This initiative will be guided by a steering committee comprising representatives from both the state and industry.

In addition to the MOU, the Governor is allocating $10 million from the Oregon CHIPS Act funding to the Semiconductor Talent Sustaining Fund, aimed at cultivating a strong technology workforce in Oregon. This investment will support workforce development initiatives related to the semiconductor and AI industries, with an emphasis on training Oregonians, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, for lucrative career opportunities.

 

Next year, the average inflation-adjusted student tuition cost for Oregon residents attending the state’s seven public universities is projected to be nearly 30% higher than it was ten years ago, due to proposed or approved increases by each university board for the upcoming academic year.

The seven public universities in Oregon—Eastern Oregon University, Oregon State University, Oregon Institute of Technology, Portland State University, Southern Oregon University, University of Oregon, and Western Oregon University—are all expected to implement tuition hikes ranging from 3% to 5% for the 2025-26 academic year.

This follows a trend of annual tuition increases at each institution over the past decade. Any tuition hikes exceeding 5%, including mandatory fees such as student health fees, necessitate approval from the Higher Education Coordinating Commission.

Ben Cannon, the commission’s executive director, indicated via email that the commission does not anticipate any tuition increase proposals surpassing 5%, based on the information received from the universities.

The tuition increases are attributed to rising labor costs and inflation affecting various expenses, including teaching materials, utility costs, and insurance, as stated by university representatives. Cannon further noted that inadequate levels of state funding are also contributing to the rising costs of enrollment.

 

A man from Granite Bay, California has been charged with cyberstalking and harassing his former girlfriend from Oregon over a span of 12 years.

Jason Campos, aged 42, is alleged to have shared sexually explicit images of the victim on social media and public forums.

He reportedly established a fraudulent email account to obtain her personal details from her attorney. Following this, he posted additional explicit images on a message board, where he also disclosed her contact information and urged individuals to print and distribute the photos within her community. Campos faces charges of stalking, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

 

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has reinstated the commercial rock crab fishery along the northern coastline, extending from the California/Oregon border to the entrance of Humboldt Bay.

This decision follows a closure that lasted nearly ten years due to a domoic acid outbreak. The fishery was initially shut down in 2015 as a precaution during the most significant domoic acid outbreak recorded on the west coast.

Recent testing has verified that the levels of domoic acid in rock crabs are now below federal action thresholds, permitting the fishery’s reopening. Over the years, commercial fishermen have submitted rock crab samples, which contributed to this decision. The last reopening in this region took place in May 2019.

The CDFW advises fishery participants to refrain from setting gear in the presence of whales to reduce the risk of entanglement and encourages best fishing practices, such as minimizing slack surface line.

 

The Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team confiscated nearly 150,000 potentially fatal doses of fentanyl last week that were en route to Grants Pass last week.

The total amount seized exceeded 10 ounces. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) states that ‘two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal depending on an individual’s body size, tolerance, and previous usage.’

The RADE team is composed of officers from the Grants Pass Police Department, Oregon State Police, Josephine County Community Corrections, the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, and federal partners. The investigation into the fentanyl remains active.

 

The U.S. Forest Service is currently recruiting permanent wildland firefighters for the upcoming season in Oregon and Washington.

A diverse range of positions is available, including handcrew members, hotshot crews, pilots, dispatchers, and equipment operators.

Applications will be accepted until Thursday via the Forest Service Careers website and USAJobs.gov.

 

Salem, Oregon – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and Oregon Trails Coalition will host eight virtual focus groups in May to better understand the needs of different types of trail users who use land and water trails throughout Oregon and not just at Oregon State Parks.

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback through April 30. The focus groups expand that effort and take a deeper dive into the needs of different trail users including mountain bikers, paddlers, hikers and adaptive equipment users.

The information from the survey and focus groups will help inform the Oregon Statewide Trails Plan, which provides guidance to OPRD as well as other federal, state, and local agencies and private sector partners. It outlines trends and issues, creates priorities for grant funding and recommends actions to improve trails over the next 10 years.  

Participants can join the 90-minute Zoom sessions to provide feedback. Anyone interested in joining, can register in advance using the links below:

• May 5: OHV / ATV Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 7: BIPOC Nature Network Trails Plan Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 8: Mountain Biking and Bikepacking Focus Group 4-5:30 p.m.
• May 14: Adaptive Equipment Users and Disability Trails Plan Focus Group Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 15: Winter/Snow Trail Focus Group (Non-motorized and motorized) Noon to 1:30 p.m.
• May 27: Hiking, Trail Running, Backpacking, Equestrian User Focus Group 4:30- 6 p.m.
• May 29: Paddling (Flat water and Whitewater) Focus Group 4-5:30 p.m.
• Agency Partners Trails Plan Focus Group Meeting TBD.

Check the website for more information including updates such as the time and link for the agency partners trails plan focus group: https://www.oregontrailscoalition.org/post/oregon-state-trails-plan-share-your-trail-user-experience-in-focus-groups-this-may

 

 

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.

 

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