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, May 23, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Around the State of Oregon

Gas prices are rising ahead of Memorial Day weekend. The national average rose four cents to $3.18 a gallon, according to Triple-A.

The average price for regular in Oregon also rose four cents to $3.96. Rising demand and higher crude oil prices are driving up gas prices.

 

The Board of Directors of the Southern Oregon Education Service District (SOESD) has officially appointed Dr. Mark Angle-Hobson as the new superintendent, effective July 1, 2025.

Current superintendent Scott Beveridge will retire, concluding his term on June 30, 2025.

Dr. Angle-Hobson brings over 30 years of educational experience, including seven years of service at SOESD, where he currently holds the positions of director of School Improvement Services and interim deputy clerk. He has been instrumental in driving significant growth in programs, partnerships, and service delivery throughout the region.

As a first-generation college graduate and the son of a coal miner from West Virginia, Dr. Angle-Hobson earned both his doctorate and master’s degree from the University of Virginia. His extensive career encompasses roles as a classroom teacher, principal, school district superintendent, and university professor.

His leadership philosophy emphasizes integrity, transparency, and the transformative power of education. Dr. Angle-Hobson has proposed a detailed 90-day entry plan aimed at cultivating a positive workplace culture, improving employee morale, and enhancing recruitment and retention strategies.

A key aspect of his leadership will involve a collaborative effort to refine the agency’s vision, mission, and strategic direction to better support its component districts.

 

A group of students in Oregon is advocating for lawmakers to approve a bill that would enable them to participate in school board elections.

House Bill 3012, which was introduced earlier this year, aims to permit 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in nonpartisan school board elections beginning in 2029. On Monday morning, a coalition of youth voting advocates gathered outside the Oregon Capitol to urge legislators to consider the bill, coinciding with the day before school board elections are held throughout Oregon.

While Oregon automatically registers individuals aged 16 and 17 when they obtain their driver’s licenses, they do not receive a ballot until they turn 18. In contrast, 21 states permit 17-year-olds to vote in primaries if they will be 18 by the time of the general election, as reported by the National Conference of State Legislatures, and certain U.S. cities allow teenagers to vote in local elections. However, Oregon students like Nilani Maheswaran, a high school student from Beaverton, argue that they should have the right to vote on matters that affect their education, as they are already working, driving, and paying taxes.

The issues that concern her most at school include staff shortages, mental health support, and the high ratio of students to teachers.

 

Life sentence for North Bend man accused of killing four people

COQUILLE, Ore. — A life sentence has been handed down for a North Bend man accused of killing four people – including his father – and kidnapping a woman from Springfield.

Oen Nicholson’s fate was handed down Monday at the Coos County Courthouse. Nicholson was arrested in 2021 but was deemed unfit to stand trial due to insanity – until last year.

“Guilty Except for Insanity” is the verdict for Nicholson on four counts of first-degree murder from a Coos County judge. The judge sentenced him to serve out the rest of his life in Oregon state hospital. prosecutors say Nicholson — 30 years old at the time — killed four people in North Bend.

One of them, his father, was stabbed more than a dozen times inside a trailer they shared at the Mill Casino RV Park, according to Coos County Special Prosecutor Paul Frasier.  Then, a couple in their seventies who stayed at the RV park was run over by Nicholson as he left the park in his father’s pickup truck.

He then used his father’s gun to kill one last victim — a woman at a North Bend marijuana dispensary he frequented.

“Under the law, this was the only resolution we could go with,” Frasier explained. “The experts in this case – both my experts and the defense experts – agreed that Mr. Nicholson met the criteria for Guilty Except for Insanity. And because of that, your options are limited. There’s only one thing you can do, which is what we did today. He was found Guilty Except for Insanity.”

Nicholson was diagnosed by specialists from both his lawyer and prosecution with schizophrenia with paranoid delusions. Those specialists say he believed each victim was a government agent attempting to kill him.

The judge tacked on another 20 years to Nicholson’s sentence for the kidnapping of a Springfield woman who Nicholson forced to drive 2,000 miles to Wisconsin following the killings.

 

On May 20, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m., the Oregon State Police K-9 unit discovered a significant amount of fentanyl during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 involving a white Chevrolet Impala, which had been pulled over for making an illegal lane change.

The officer, suspecting drug-related activity, requested and received consent to search the vehicle, leading to the seizure of around 60 pounds of powdered fentanyl in 25 vacuum-sealed packages from the trunk.

The driver, Jose I Iribe, aged 46, from Oakland, California, was arrested for unlawful possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and subsequently handed over to the DEA for further investigation. The inquiry is ongoing, and no further details are available at this moment.

He was subsequently arrested and taken into custody by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). He made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, who ordered his detention pending further legal proceedings. The DEA is conducting the investigation, with prosecution led by Paul T. Maloney, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation of wrongdoing, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is 80 to 100 times more potent than morphine and 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin, with a mere 3-milligram dose capable of being lethal to an average adult male. The widespread availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has significantly contributed to the rise in overdose fatalities across the state.

 

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 2 Office has released a travel advisory for the forthcoming Memorial Day weekend affecting Shasta, Siskiyou, Plumas, Lassen, and Tehama Counties.

Travelers are encouraged to anticipate possible delays resulting from ongoing construction and maintenance activities. Caltrans has indicated that while many crews will be off during the holiday, road work is scheduled to resume on Wednesday, May 28.

Motorists should prepare for extended work zones and potential congestion, particularly on Interstate 5 in Siskiyou County, where the Sac Gaps Combined Project is in progress. Additionally, emergency road work on Highway 36 near Fredonyer Summit is contributing to delays, and the Chester Causeway Project in Plumas and Lassen Counties is also causing disruptions.

Caltrans has warned that emergency slide work on Highway 96 in Siskiyou County, between Horse Creek and Oakbar, may result in delays of up to 15 minutes.

On Highway 89 near McArthur, officials note that traffic flow has historically been affected during the Memorial Day weekend in the vicinity of Burney Falls Memorial Park. Furthermore, several rest areas in Tehama, Shasta, and Siskiyou Counties remain closed due to ongoing long-term maintenance and rehabilitation efforts.

Caltrans recommends that motorists verify road conditions prior to traveling this holiday weekend.

 

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.—A special long-term partnership between the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) recreation staff and local law enforcement agencies helps to improve the safety, education and overall experience for people visiting Oregon’s state forests.

“Our number one priority is the safety of everyone who visits the forest,” said Tillamook County Sheriff’s Deputy Billy Cloud.  “The best way to improve safety is through education and every day we are talking with people helping them understand the rules and best practices to minimize risks and improve safety.”

The vast majority of people visiting the Tillamook State Forest will have an enjoyable time hiking, biking, camping or riding because of the work of ODF’s recreation staff.

“We work hard to build, maintain and improve our trials, campgrounds and other recreational areas to provide the safest, most enjoyable experiences possible,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education and Interpretation Program Manager. “I believe we provide the best outdoor experience in Oregon for the most people—and all at a reasonable cost.”

The benefit of these efforts is evidenced by the relatively few problems that occur in Tillamook State Forest. The temperate rain forest is just 40 miles from Portland and draws large numbers of visitors throughout the year. Those visitors use off-highway vehicle (OHV), mountain bike, equestrian and hiking trails, as well as developed campgrounds and managed dispersed camping areas, to enjoy 364,000 acres of the state forest.

With that many visitors there are sometimes a few guests that cause problems.

“The most common incidents on the forest involve those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but range from arguments over reservations, to parking issues or noise complaints,” said Offer.  “If our limited staff, which includes four full time, five seasonal, and 10 volunteer camp hosts, are not able to resolve and de-escalate a situation we contact the deputies. Our top priority is always the safety of our guests and staff.”

There are three Tillamook County deputies that work in the Tillamook State Forest thanks to a grant through Oregon State Parks. Those grant funds come from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) user permit sales and a percentage of gasoline tax money.  The county has applied for and received the grant for more than 25 years. Throughout the year, the deputies and ODF staff meet regularly to discuss and solve problems. One area always discussed is OHV safety.

“We spend a lot of time with the OHV folks,” said Cloud.  “There are three main things we look for and help people understand: helmet laws for those under 18, equipment requirements especially spark arrestors on OHVs, and current permits or safety cards.”

DOT-approved helmets are required for youth under age 18 for all ATVs.  ATVs on public lands must also have an adequate muffler to limit sound emissions to 99 dBA and spark arrestors to prevent wildfires.  Permits must be displayed on ATVs and operators need a current safety card.

“We do not want to write citations,” said Cloud.  “We do want compliance, so folks stay safe while they are out in the forest.  However, if someone is riding under the influence or commits another crime they will be arrested.”

ODF staff and deputies work together on other law enforcement issues including vandalism, illegal dumping, criminal activity, abandoned vehicles and non-recreational campers.

A safe and enjoyable visit is the top goal of ODF staff and the deputies but sometimes people do not realize the challenges they face when visiting the forest.

“My advice, and I can’t stress this enough, is use some common sense,” said Cloud.  “If you haven’t been hiking in a couple of years then don’t start off trying to hike a long 10-to-20 mile trail that you have never been on. And, no, just because you are tired doesn’t mean you can ask for a rescue helicopter to take you back to the parking lot.  True story, just this spring.”

The other common-sense issue some people fail to realize is their cell phones and other devices likely won’t have a connection in many areas of Oregon’s state forests.

“Most ODF staff vehicles have radios, and the deputies all have radios, so if you do need help be sure to contact one of us,” said Offer.

The good working relationship between Tillamook County Sherrif’s Office and the ODF staff is just one part of keeping state forests safe.

“All of our state forests combined cross the boundaries of 15 counties,” said Offer. “I want to personally thank all the law enforcement agencies and search and rescue teams we work with that help make Oregonians’ visits to their state forests as safe as possible.”

For more on state forest recreational opportunities see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Recreation, education & interpretation : Recreation, education & interpretation : State of Oregon

For more on riding ATVs on public land: Oregon Parks and Recreation : All-Terrain Vehicles In Oregon : Ride ATVs : State of Oregon

 

The Mill Casino in North Bend has been renamed to the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort Coos Bay.

This change, which took effect on Monday, pays tribute to the Coquille Tribe, the proprietors of the casino that has been in operation for 30 years. Tribal members were informed of the new name on Sunday evening, while casino staff were notified on Monday.

 

Each year, Oregon State Parks commences its peak season by expressing gratitude to its visitors through “complimentary camping and day-use parking” on State Parks Day.

This event, which has been celebrated since 1998, serves to acknowledge the enduring support of Oregonians for the state park system. Scheduled for the first Saturday of June, this year it will take place on June 7.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will eliminate day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that typically impose them, as well as waive camping fees for all tent, RV, and horse campsites on June 7.

Additionally, State Parks Day features free events at numerous state parks. Park staff have diligently prepared the parks over the past few months for the upcoming busy season and State Parks Day. Their efforts have included addressing storm damage, such as the removal of approximately 180 fallen trees near Nehalem, and relocating significant amounts of debris to reopen camping loops.

The parks are now fully prepared to welcome visitors for both State Parks Day and the busy season ahead.

 

This boating season promises to be exceptional. To foster memorable experiences, the Oregon State Marine Board urges boaters to remain vigilant of their surroundings, ensure they possess all necessary equipment, and inform others of their recreational plans.

The Marine Board provides numerous resources to assist boaters in having a safe and enjoyable time on Oregon’s waterways. The agency recommends utilizing the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map, which outlines public boat ramps, local boating regulations, and additional facility information, including ownership and available amenities. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides, as well as to consult the agency’s obstructions map for any reported hazards.

Boaters can visit the Marine Board’s website to determine the required equipment based on their boat’s size and type. It is essential to have the appropriate gear for planned activities and to ensure that each passenger is equipped with a properly fitting life jacket approved by the US Coast Guard.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters to: Operate soberly, refraining from the consumption of marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, as these substances impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, and can lead to dehydration. Boating requires acute situational awareness. All children aged 12 and under must wear a life jacket while underway on all types of boats, both motorized and nonmotorized. Additionally, all boaters navigating Class III whitewater rivers are mandated to wear a life jacket. It is important to be courteous to fellow boaters and to share the waterway. Gear should be staged in the parking lot or designated staging area, regardless of boat type, to facilitate quicker launches and enhance the experience for everyone present.

In Oregon, all motorboat operators with engines exceeding 10 horsepower are required to complete a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card while operating their vessel. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats measuring 10 feet or longer must obtain a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also provides a complimentary online Paddling Course for those new to the activity.

 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has declared that applications for the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant are now being accepted, which aims to provide essential emergency preparedness equipment to local governments and other qualified entities.

All application submissions must be completed online by 5 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025. It is advisable for applicants to thoroughly review the necessary materials ahead of time, as letters of support from collaborating agencies are mandatory. In previous years, recipients of the grant have utilized the funds to acquire items such as generators, sandbagging machines, and search and rescue vehicles. This equipment is intended for use by the local jurisdiction or may be loaned to other jurisdictions during disaster response efforts.

Funding for the SPIRE grants is sourced from bond sales conducted by the state. Applications will be assessed within regional, Tribal, and urban search and rescue (USAR) categories to ensure equitable distribution of equipment. This evaluation process is structured to address capability gaps identified through the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA)/State Preparedness Report (SPR), ensuring that all disciplines and regions are represented in decision-making and that the awarded equipment yields the most significant impact.

 

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will host the state’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 26, at the Oregon World War II Memorial, located on the grounds of the Oregon State Capitol in Salem (intersection of Cottage and Court Street NE).

This solemn event brings together Oregonians from across the state to remember and reflect on the sacrifices of our nation’s fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice service to the United States. Held in the heart of Oregon’s capital, the ceremony provides a space for community members, families, veterans, and civic leaders to pay tribute to those who served and never returned home.

The event will feature remarks from ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, along with other veteran leaders, state officials, and honored guests. The program will include ceremonial elements such as the national anthem, presentation of colors, and a moment of silence.

“Memorial Day is a sacred day of remembrance — a time to reflect on the cost of our freedoms and to honor the courage and selflessness of those who laid down their lives in service to our country,” said Dr. Daniels. “We invite all Oregonians to join us in this moment of unity and gratitude.”

This year’s Memorial Day ceremony holds the significance of falling on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The Oregon World War II Memorial, dedicated in 2014, honors the more than 3,700 Oregonians who lost their lives during WWII.

Limited seating will be available. Attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs or blankets for the park setting. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as the ceremony will take place rain or shine.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed beginning at 11 a.m. on ODVA’s Facebook page at facebook.com/odvavet and YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/UCAQVavs9KmvDeJ42ySFtY8A.

 

A federal investigation into a wildlife park in Bandon has revealed that several animals were not provided with sufficient food and were living in unsanitary conditions.

Reports from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspections conducted in 2024, which were acquired by NewsWatch 12 in Medford, indicate significant neglect at the West Coast Game Park Safari.

The Oregon State Police announced on Thursday that they are conducting an investigation into the park, concentrating on animal care and welfare, as well as permitting, licensing, and business practices.

A report dated December 6 highlighted that the enclosure of a lioness named Nasha was contaminated with urine, feces, soil, and food waste. Additionally, Nasha’s fur was reported to be matted with what appeared to be feces. The report further noted that two lions exhibited visible ribs and low muscle mass, while three out of eight freezers in the cat food preparation area were completely empty, and one contained only a deceased rodent.

The December 6 report also raised concerns about staffing levels at the park, indicating that one staff member was responsible for feeding, watering, cleaning enclosures, and providing basic care for over 300 animals. Another inspection report dated December 10 indicated that the park had not updated its acquisition and disposition records. The existing records failed to document the births, deaths, sales, or donations of at least five species, as required by the USDA.

Facilities housing animals are mandated to maintain accurate records of their acquisition, disposition, and transportation in accordance with the federal Animal Welfare Act.

UPDATE: 5/21/2025 – Investigators concluded their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari and cleared the area. As a result of the search, 310 animals were seized and relocated to accredited and/or permitted animal sanctuary or rescue facilities. No animals were released into the wild or unattended as a result of the search warrants.

Unfortunately, due to their physical condition, a chicken and a kinkajou were euthanized. This is in addition to the camel that was euthanized on the first day of the search and is not the young camel featured in the previously distributed photograph.

Investigators are now processing all of the evidence obtained during their four-day search of the property. Due to the ongoing investigation and future adjudication of the case, no further information is available for release.

Oregon State Police thanks our partners and the multiple animal sanctuary and rescue organizations who assisted during the multiday incident. These efforts would not have been possible or successful without their continued assistance.

 

After more than fifty years, Oregon’s pioneering ‘bottle bill’—which has been adopted by nine additional states—may undergo significant revisions, as legislators contemplate new time limitations for bottle redemption locations that some argue have turned into hotspots for drug use and homelessness.

This groundbreaking legislation, aimed at reducing litter through recycling incentives, has solidified the state’s status as a frontrunner in the burgeoning environmental movement. Additionally, it has served as a financial safety net for numerous individuals, including those facing homelessness.

The proposed changes reflect a growing consensus on the need to modernize the bottle bill to mitigate unintended consequences. Initially, consumers paid a 5-cent deposit on each qualifying bottle or can, reclaiming this deposit upon returning the empty container to retailers such as supermarkets or convenience stores. Over time, the program has broadened the types of accepted containers and raised the deposit amount to 10 cents.

Currently, twenty-seven dedicated return centers have been established throughout the state. In Oregon, individuals can create accounts for direct deposit of their refunds or opt for cash redemptions.

Some retailers manually count containers, while others utilize counting machines or designated drop-off areas for account holders to deposit bags of containers. However, the deposit amount has not adjusted with inflation—5 cents in 1971 would equate to 40 cents today, based on the Consumer Price Index’s inflation calculator—yet many low-income residents continue to depend on it.

 

 

In April, Oregon’s unemployment rate increased to 4.7%, up from 4.6% in March, having gradually risen from 4.1% in April 2024.

This rate is 1.1 percentage points above the recent low of 3.6% recorded in spring 2023. In comparison, the national unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2% for both March and April. During April, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment saw an increase of 1,200 jobs, following a revised increase of 6,200 jobs in March.

 

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Grants Pass, Oregon, man is facing federal charges for trafficking fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm, announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Christopher Smith, 38, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to the complaint, approximately one year ago, investigators with the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) task force and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) obtained information that Smith was actively distributing fentanyl throughout Josephine County, Oregon from his residence in Grants Pass. On May 9, 2025, investigators executed a state search warrant on Smith’s residence where they located and seized approximately 400 grams of fentanyl, two digital scales with fentanyl residue, two 3D printers, two ghost guns, 74 additional firearms, and an unmarked firearm suppressor. Smith was present during the search and placed under arrest.

Smith made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.

This case was investigated by RADE and DEA and is being prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

 

MISSED FILING YOUR TAXES?

Salem, Ore. — If you missed the April 15 tax filing deadline you can still file your taxes. There is no penalty for filing if you are due refund money. In fact, now is an excellent time to get free tax filing help because, now that the big rush is over, there are many open appointments.  

Thanks to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Tax Infrastructure Grant Program free tax filing help is available through mid-October. The program funds community organizations throughout the state to offer free tax filing help for people who qualify. See below to pick the best location for free tax help.

Some taxpayers choose not to file a return because they don’t earn enough to be required to file. But if you don’t file, you may miss out on receiving money back due to potential refundable tax credits. Examples include the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Kids Credit.

Help is also available to anyone who may have received a letter from the Department of Revenue or the Internal Revenue Service about their tax filing. Letters asking to validate the taxpayer or a child’s ID are common and can be confusing. Taxpayers may also receive letters about a change to their return or an amount owed. Free tax filing organizations can help with the appropriate response to these letters, including translating them if necessary.

The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds culturally relevant or culturally specific organizations, Tribal governments and rural community organizations to help educate and provide free tax filing help for people with low incomes. Help is available in multiple languages. The grant money is also used to increase the number of certified tax preparers in Oregon.

Where to get free help filing taxes

• 211Info: Call 2-1-1 or email help@211info.orgfor a list of all the free tax filing help.
• Oregon State University (OSU); vita@oregonstate.edu; 541-737-3371; Corvallis, Bend, Eugene OSU VITA website: https://business.oregonstate.edu/volunteer-income-tax-assistance
• Western Oregon University (WOU); wouvita@wou.edu; 503-751-4132; Monmouth, Independence, Falls City; WOU VITA website: https://wou.edu/business-economics/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.
• CASH Oregon: info@Cashoregon.org; 503-243-7765; Portland, Beaverton, Gresham
• Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO); TAX@irco.org; 971-427-3993; Portland, Ontario       
• Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos; debbiec@Centrodspc.org; 503-982-0243; Woodburn        
• Latino Community Association; info@latinocommunityassociation.org;

541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond               

• Moneywise Oregon; dan@moneywiseoregon.org; 541-670-5054; Coos Bay, Roseburg

 

 

Mental Health Awareness Month Spotlight: Loneliness line supports seniors

PORTLAND, Ore.– When Carli Cox picks up the phone, she never knows who will be on the other end, but she knows why she’s answering.   As a Crisis Intervention Specialist at Lines for Life, Cox is one of the voices providing support to people facing behavioral health challenges including loneliness.

For Mental Health Awareness Month, Oregon Health Authority is highlighting its partnership with Lines for Life. OHA provides funding for six crisis and support lines, including the Senior Loneliness Line.  This service offers older Oregonians connection and emotional support amid growing concerns about social isolation in aging populations.

“The Senior Loneliness Line is unique,” Cox said. “It functions both as a warm line for friendly conversation and as a space for crisis support when needed. We get calls from people who just want to start their day with a voice on the other end, to others who are dealing with isolation, loss, aging related issues, and sometimes suicidal thoughts.”

About 15% of Oregonians are ages 65 years or older, and by 2030 that number will increase to 20%. This age group is experiencing many behavioral health struggles, with one in five individuals experiencing depression at any given time. Males ages 75 and older have the highest suicide rate of any age group and gender.

With more than three years of experience and 4,000 crisis calls under her belt, Cox plays a critical role in helping the aging population.  Older adults often face stigma seeking mental health support, and Cox wants them to know that no problem is too small.

“Many seniors didn’t grow up in a time when talking about mental health was encouraged. We want them to know this line is here for them—it’s safe, confidential, and there’s no need to be in crisis to call.”

The Senior Loneliness Line sees a wide range of callers, from those facing estrangement from family to those who’ve outlived loved ones. Even a single phone call can bring meaningful change.

“Sometimes, you can hear a shift in someone’s voice by the end of a conversation,” said Cox. “Making that connection is so rewarding.”

If you are a senior or know someone who might benefit from the Senior Loneliness Line, please call 1-800-282-7035 or visit https://seniorlonelinessline.org/. For other mental health needs, call, or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org.

 

Oregon reports record-high nonmedical vaccine exemptions for kindergartners

But most families continue to vaccinate their kids, OHA officials say

A record 9.7% of kindergartners claimed nonmedical exemptions from Oregon’s school vaccination requirements for the 2024-2025 school year, the highest rate ever recorded in the state, Oregon Health Authority announced today.

The increase continues an upward trend from 8.8% in 2024, when Oregon had the fourth-highest nonmedical exemption rate in the United States, behind Idaho, Alaska and Utah, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National data for the current school year are not yet available.

Data from the Oregon Immunization Program at OHA’s Public Health Division indicates 86.3% of kindergartners were fully vaccinated with all required immunizations for the current school year, down from 86.4% last year, marking three consecutive years of declining vaccination coverage among Oregon’s youngest students. These declining rates raise the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in schools, particularly in communities with lower immunization coverage.

Stacy de Assis Matthews, school immunization coordinator at the Oregon Immunization Program, stressed the critical role of high vaccination rates in protecting public health.

“An immunized community is our most effective defense against diseases such as measles,” Matthews said.  “Robust vaccination coverage not only protects individual children but also safeguards those who cannot be vaccinated due to age, medical conditions, or other vulnerabilities, helping protect our communities in Oregon.”

• To view a video of local public health authority representatives from around Oregon sharing their thoughts about vaccine perceptions in their communities, click here.

Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA, expressed alarm at the rising exemption rates.

“The increase in nonmedical exemptions weakens community immunity, creating opportunities for outbreaks of serious diseases that vaccines have nearly eradicated,” he said.

Cieslak cited CDC data reporting 1,001 measles cases in the U.S. as of May 8, 2025, with 96% among unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.

Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at Oregon Public Health, highlighted the importance of sustaining and strengthening public confidence in vaccination programs.

“Vaccines have transformed public health by dramatically reducing the burden of infectious diseases, enabling children to grow up in safe environments,” Sidelinger said. “The growing trend of nonmedical exemptions threatens to undo decades of progress and puts us all at risk. OHA is committed to providing accessible, science-based information to empower families to choose vaccination.”

Despite the rise in exemptions, Matthews emphasized that the vast majority of Oregon families continue to get childhood immunizations. For students across all grades, from kindergarten through 12th grade, 90.4% were fully vaccinated in 2025.

“Parents and guardians recognize the essential role vaccines play in keeping schools and communities free from diseases like measles, polio, and pertussis,” she said. Oregon’s immunization laws help protect more than 650,000 students in schools and child care programs. “Every child’s immunization record is checked yearly, helping ensure equitable vaccine access for all Oregon children.”

Updated kindergarten immunization and exemption rates for the 2024-2025 school year are available at Oregon Immunization Coverage. Spreadsheets detailing immunization rates for individual schools and child care facilities are also accessible, with 2025 updates to interactive maps forthcoming.

Vaccination resources for families: 

• Information on immunization requirements in 17 languages can be found on the OHA website.
• Families seeking vaccines can contact 211or their local health department. 211Info offers support in English and Spanish, with interpreter services in multiple languages.
• The Vaccines for Childrenprogram provides low- or no-cost immunizations for children ages 0-18 who are enrolled in Oregon Health Plan, uninsured, and/or American Indian/Alaska Native. 

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. The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon.

About OHA: Oregon Health Authority is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Oregonians through evidence-based public health initiatives, including robust immunization programs. 

 

FREE CAMPING, DAY-USE PARKING & ACTIVITIES ON STATE PARKS DAY JUNE 7 

SALEM, Oregon—Every year Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to its visitors — free camping and day-use parking on State Parks Day.

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their long-standing support of the state park system. It falls on the first Saturday of June, which is June 7 this year.

“We are honored to steward and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. We appreciate their commitment to preserving and maintaining Oregon’s special places. We would not have the park system that we have today without their support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that charge them and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites on June 7. State Parks Day also includes free events at many state parks.

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months getting parks ready for the busier season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage, with as many as 180 downed trees near Nehalem, to moving mountains of muck or sand to re-open camp loops. Now parks are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the busier season.

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.  
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon’s ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

About State Parks Day

State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. It’s one of three days a year that Oregon State Parks waives the day-use parking fees. Other days include Green Friday the day after Thanksgiving and First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day.

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

 

ODF Reminds Everyone To Exercise Caution With Spring Burning

SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire prevention experts are urging everyone to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring. There have already been 32 escaped debris burns reported on ODF-protected land in 2025, nearly double the amount compared to this time last year. The average size of a spring escaped debris burn is about one acre, or the size of a football field, and generally requires suppression from the local fire protection agency.

Over seventy-five percent of wildfires in Oregon are human caused, with escaped debris burns topping the list. With forecasters becoming increasingly confident that this season will be hotter and drier than normal, now is the time to practice wildfire prevention. As grass and vegetation begin to dry out, the risk of a fire creeping away from a debris burn pile increases. Make sure to weigh your options and have all of the fire prevention tools in place before lighting the burn pile or incinerator.

Besides burning, preferable options for brush removal include composting or recycling. Check with your local disposal company for recycling options.  

But if burning now is the only option to dispose of yard debris, fire prevention specialists ask people to follow safe burning practices.

• Call before you burn—Regulations vary by location. Call your local district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit.
   
• Know the weather—Burn early in the day and never burn on windy days, because fires can spread out of control more easily.
   
• Always have water and fire tools nearby—When burning, have a shovel and charged water hose or a bucket of water on hand to put out the fire.
   
• Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile—Make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.
   
• Keep burn piles small—Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, maximum of four feet by four feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.
   
• Burn only yard debris—State laws prohibit burning materials, treated wood or trash that create dense smoke or noxious odors.
   
• Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.
   
• Stay with the fire from start to finish—NEVER leave your debris burn unattended. State law requires monitoring debris burn piles at all times, until it is out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.
   
• Put the fire out cold/completely—Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cool to the touch.
   
• Recheck burn piles—Return to the burn site periodically over several weeks to check for heat or smoke and refrain from adding new yard debris on top of old ashes. Burn piles can retain heat for several weeks and rekindle when the weather warms up and winds blow.
   
• Costs of run-away debris burns—State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as the damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.

As the summer fire season quickly approaches, consider putting off any burning until next fall or winter, when conditions are more favorable. Just cover a portion of the pile with plastic, such as a tarp, to keep dry until you decide to burn. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and prevent spring holdover fires.

More tips on wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website. Find public use restrictions for Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands before your burn.

 

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