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, May 29, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

 

 

BUCKCHERRY – Live at the 2025 Klamath County Fair, Aug 2nd!

Explosive, unapologetic, and unmistakably rock and roll, Buckcherry has spent over two decades lighting up stages across the globe with their signature blend of raw emotion, relentless energy, and platinum-selling hits. Known for tracks like Lit Up, Crazy Bitch, and Sorry, Buckcherry carved out a space for hard rock during an era when few others dared to.

With nine studio albums under their belt and millions of fans worldwide, their latest release Hellbound marks a return to form with bold riffs, high-octane vocals, and a spirit born from years of relentless touring. Buckcherry has built their legacy on unforgettable live shows, and this summer, they’re bringing that fire to Klamath Falls.

Shane Smith and the Saints are bringing their signature blend of country, folk, and roadhouse rock to the 2025 Klamath County Fair, August 2^nd, 2025!

Known for their on-screen performance in Yellowstone and sold-out shows across the country, this is your chance to see them live in the John Hancock Event Center.

Tickets on sale now at klamathcofair.com or the Klamath County Event Center Box Office. Call the Fairgrounds office at 541-883-3796.  Find out more about the artist here.

 

 

 

 

 

CALLING ALL VENDORS FOR THE 2024 CHI-TOWN FAMILY FESTIVAL

Vendor Registration Closes Friday, June 13

CHILOQUIN, OR — The City of Chiloquin is excited to welcome back vendors for the 4^th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival, happening Friday, June 27, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds on Highway 97.

We invite farmers, crafters, artists, food vendors, nonprofits, and local businesses to join us in celebrating community and summer fun at this free, family-friendly event. The festival features live music, food, water slides, bounce houses, a bike rodeo, a mobile escape room, and a vibrant market and craft fair that showcases our region’s talents and offerings.

Vendor booths are 12’x12’ with setup beginning at noon on Friday and 8:00 AM on Saturday. Additional details and guidelines are available at www.chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

The last day to sign up as a vendor is Friday, June 13.

Join us in making this event an unforgettable celebration for the entire community!

More information is available at https://chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

 

Around the State of Oregon

This past weekend marked the onset of the wildfire season, with over 1,776 acres ablaze in Central Oregon. The Butte Creek Fire is situated nine miles north of Clarno, on the eastern bank of the John Day River in Wheeler County.

Fire crews from the Central Oregon Fire Management Service responded to the fire after receiving the initial report on Sunday at approximately 2:47 p.m.

Within twenty-four hours, the Butte Creek Fire was reported to have expanded from 300 to 2,000 acres, ultimately reaching 3,000 acres by the last update on Monday evening. However, this figure was later adjusted to 1,776 acres on Tuesday afternoon due to enhanced accuracy in on-site mapping. The affected land comprises both private and federal territories managed by the Bureau of Land Management. While some structures were reported to be at risk, none were confirmed as damaged or destroyed as of Tuesday.

As per the latest updates from Central Oregon Fire Info, fire crews are “actively engaged in active fire suppression activities,” with two interagency hotshot crews present at the location as of Tuesday afternoon. On Monday, Central Oregon Fire Info issued a warning via the X social media platform, advising boaters on the John Day River to exercise caution, as helicopters were drawing water from the river to fill buckets for use in combating the fire.

 

The South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team (SCINT) declared on Tuesday that they confiscated illegal drugs, firearms, and cash from the West Coast Game Park Safari located in Bandon, leading to the arrest of an individual linked to the investigation.

 Brian Tenney, aged 52 and the proprietor of the park, was taken into custody at the Coos County Jail on Tuesday, facing charges related to the possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution of methamphetamine.

As reported by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, SCINT discovered approximately 80 grams of methamphetamine while executing a search warrant at the park. A subsequent warrant revealed the presence of eight grams of cocaine, 44 firearms—including one that had been modified into a machine gun—and around $1.6 million in cash, cashier’s checks, bonds, and certificates found on the premises.

These search warrants were executed as part of an ongoing investigation by the Oregon State Police concerning animal welfare and business practices at the West Coast Game Park Safari. During a four-day search that concluded on May 18, authorities seized 310 animals and euthanized three due to their poor condition. 310 animals were seized, and three were euthanized during the Oregon State Police’s search of the Bandon wildlife park.

310 animals were seized, and three were euthanized during the Oregon State Police’s search of the Bandon wildlife park. The Oregon State Police announced the completion of their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari following a four-day operation. The park remains closed to the public as the OSP investigation continues.

 

A woman tragically lost her life on Saturday afternoon after being swept away by the Sacramento River while attempting to cross beneath Hedge Creek Falls.

This was confirmed by the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office. Reports indicate that the woman was trying to reach Mossbrae Falls when she entered the river. Her son witnessed her being swept away by the strong current.

Emergency responders found her approximately 1.5 miles downstream. Deputies and fire personnel initiated CPR at the scene before she was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. She was pronounced dead at around 1:58 p.m., as stated by the sheriff’s office. The identity of the woman has not yet been disclosed.

 

Oregon’s sole Republican representative in Congress defended the party’s choice to impose new work and citizenship criteria for Medicaid eligibility during a virtual town hall last week, stating that there exists a “travesty” of able-bodied, non-working Americans.

U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, who serves Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District, which encompasses a large portion of eastern Oregon, addressed fewer than twelve questions that were submitted online or via phone throughout the hour-long event. Bentz explained that he opted for a virtual meeting with constituents to connect with a larger audience simultaneously, and noted that some attendees at his earlier in-person town halls this year had been “borderline abusive.”

 

Oregon currently has a greater number of residents aged 65 and older than it has individuals under the age of 18, marking a significant demographic shift with substantial consequences for the state’s economy.

As recently as 1985, Oregon had more than double the number of children compared to seniors. However, the state’s birth rate has dramatically decreased — ranking among the lowest in the nation — and the majority of baby boomers have now reached retirement age. Consequently, the population of older adults has surpassed that of children.

The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis projects that in 2024, there will be nearly 900,000 individuals over 65, in contrast to 832,000 under 18, with an estimated 821,000 currently.

State economists anticipate that the senior population will continue to grow while the number of children declines. By 2035, they predict that Oregon will have 40% more seniors than children.

 

Oregon’s prohibition on plastic grocery bags is set to intensify with a bill that is on its way to Governor Tina Kotek’s desk. Starting in 2027, Senate Bill 551 will mandate that retailers and restaurants are prohibited from providing any type of plastic bags to customers during checkout.

This regulation is already applicable to most single-use plastic bags due to legislation enacted by lawmakers in 2019. However, the previous law allowed stores to provide slightly thicker plastic bags deemed reusable, which critics argue are frequently discarded. Senate Bill 551 eliminates this loophole, designating bags made from recycled paper as the sole option available to stores and restaurants. The legislation does not affect grocery stores’ ability to supply plastic bags for bulk items, raw meat, or certain other products.

The bill, which was approved by the Senate with a vote of 22-8 on Tuesday, is significantly more restricted than an earlier version of SB 551 that the chamber passed in March. In addition to prohibiting plastic bags, the earlier bill would have prevented restaurants from providing customers with plastic utensils or single-serving condiments in plastic packaging unless specifically requested.

Furthermore, it would have prohibited hotels and Airbnb hosts from automatically supplying guests with shampoo and other amenities in single-use plastic containers.

 

Gas prices rose in Oregon and Washington during the Memorial Day weekend. According to Triple-A, the average price in Oregon increased by five cents to $4.02 per gallon.

Under the Trump Administration now, this figure is approximately 30 cents lower than the average at the same time last year.

Meanwhile, the national average remains much lower than Oregon at just $3.17 per gallon.

 

Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, together with Governor Tina Kotek, are requesting assistance from FEMA for the residents of Harney County after experiencing the most severe flooding in over 70 years.

The sewer system in the City of Burns was inundated, resulting in raw sewage entering residences. Over 1,400 individuals were evacuated. Numerous homes require cleaning due to the presence of raw sewage. FEMA is being solicited to offer Individual Assistance, which would aid uninsured residents in covering expenses for essential needs and repairs.

 

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Unveils Comprehensive Homeland Security Strategy 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) today released the 2025-28 Oregon Homeland Security Strategy (HSS), a five-year roadmap to strengthen the state’s ability to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from the full spectrum of threats and hazards facing Oregonians. 

“Oregon’s risks—whether natural, technological, or human-caused—demand a coordinated, data-driven approach,” said Erin McMahon, OEM Director and Oregon Homeland Security Advisor. “This strategy reflects months of collaboration with local, tribal and state partners, and it positions Oregon to share intelligence faster, protect critical infrastructure better, and respond to crises more effectively than ever before.” 

Strategy Highlights  

Approved by the Governor’s multi-agency Oregon Homeland Security Council, in April 2025, the strategy prioritizes seven strategic goals that align with FEMA’s National Preparedness System: 

1. Strengthen Intelligence and Information Sharing Capabilities  
2. Enhance Critical Infrastructure Resilience  
3. Enhance Cybersecurity Resilience  
4. Strengthen Counterterrorism Capabilities  
5. Strengthen Public Health and Medical Emergency Preparedness  
6. Advance Interoperable Emergency Communications  
7. Strengthen an All-Hazards Preparedness and Response Capabilities at the Local, Tribal, and State Level 

Key to all these goals is a 24/7/365 common operating picture. OEM is working with legislators to deploy a next-generation data-management system that fuses threat intelligence while honoring Oregon’s privacy and civil-rights laws.   

OEM will accomplish this through a whole-community approach. The plan leverages councils and workgroups—including the Oregon Homeland Security Council, Cybersecurity Advisory Council, and Homeland Security Advisory Workgroup—to coordinate resources across government, private industry, nonprofits and academia. This collaboration with our partners, and the integration of data tools, will help us track, manage, assess and share threat information while adhering to our state laws regarding civil rights and privacy protection. 

Why Now? 

• Escalating natural disasters. Wildfires, ice storms and earthquakes now occur with greater frequency and intensity. 
• Evolving human-caused risks. Domestic violent extremism, fentanyl trafficking, ransomware and disinformation campaigns all pose growing threats to public safety and economic security. 

This strategy provides a comprehensive framework for Oregon which will identify, unify, guide, and streamline homeland security efforts over the next three years, 2025-2028, with revisions occurring in the spring of 2027 for the next 3-year cycle. 

Some of the Next Steps Include: 

• Developing the disaster preparedness stockpile program. 
• Improving the common operating picture and information sharing across agencies and sectors. 
• Expanding education and awareness efforts through outreach activities including newsletters, community messaging, and webinars.  
• Aligning with the Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan. 
• Strengthening private sector partnerships. 
• Securing funds for infrastructure protection, cybersecurity efforts, and mitigation efforts. 
• Developing a prevention and protection framework through the update of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan CEMP Volume II: Preparedness Plan. 

The full Homeland Security Strategy is available here. More information about the Homeland Security Council can be found on the OEM website. 

 

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has verified the existence of three new wolf packs within the state. This occurrence contributes to the increasing wolf population throughout California.

The Tunnison Pack, situated north of Susanville, is made up of two wolves. One female wolf, LAS32F, was born to the Lassen Pack in 2022, while a male wolf, DIS04M, originates from Oregon. They commenced their travels together in October 2024. To the north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Ash Pan Pack consists of two wolves. One is a female wolf, WHA04F, from the Whaleback Pack.

The origin and gender of the second wolf remain unidentified. These wolves began their journey together in April 2024. In eastern Tehama County, the Ishi Pack is composed of three wolves, all of which are of unknown sex and origin. Their travel history has not been recorded.

The announcement of the three new packs was made during a recent interview on North State Public Radio’s show Blue Dot, featuring wolf coordinator Axel Hunnicutt from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Hunnicutt stated that wildlife officials have been aware of wolf activity in these regions, but it was only recently confirmed that the wolves had formed their own pack, defined as a group of two or more.

With these new additions, California now accommodates 10 recognized wolf packs. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has launched a new online map to monitor collared wolves.

 

A recent report indicates that there is insufficient oversight at the Oregon Tourism Commission.

Released yesterday by James Neff of the Oregon Journalism Project, the report highlights the agency’s deficiencies in overseeing compensation for senior executives and its management of state funds. Additionally, the report features interviews with former employees who assert that the agency’s leadership practiced “management by intimidation.”

 

A public meeting is scheduled to take place in Lakeview on Thursday, May 29, organized by Oregon’s Fish Passage Task Force and Fish Screens Task Force.

This meeting, which welcomes public attendance, will occur from 8 a.m. to noon at the Lake County Courthouse, located at 513 Center St, Lakeview. Additionally, participants can join the meeting virtually through Microsoft Teams or by dialing: 503-446-4951 and entering conference ID 840315913#.

The agenda will cover updates on the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) fish screens and passage program, various task force business items, and two new requests for fish passage exemptions; one concerning a culvert on Vermont Creek near Portland and the other related to Stoller Reservoir in Yamhill County. The complete meeting agenda can be found on the ODFW Fish Passage Task Force website.

 

 

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen participated in several Memorial Day observances across the state on May 26, 2025, a day dedicated to honoring all those who died in service to the United States during both peacetime and war.

At Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivered a Memorial Day address as the keynote speaker to those gathered for the 75th Annual Memorial Day Observance.

“On this solemn occasion of Memorial Day, we gather to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation,” Gronewold said. “They chose to serve willingly, full-heartedly, courageously, and for a greater purpose.”

While describing the loss of service members from Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Gronewold said that a portion of Willamette National Cemetery is especially meaningful.  

“It’s a sobering feeling to walk among the headstones here, particularly in sections X and W, where our Soldiers from Operation Iraqi Freedom have been laid to rest,” he said. “Being here allows us all a time for quiet contemplation and an opportunity to gain perspective on life’s passage.”

Elsewhere in Oregon, other Oregon National Guard leaders spoke to those gathered on this significant day of national remembrance. Both the 142nd Wing out of Portland and the 173rd Fighter Wing out of Klamath Falls flew patriotic flyovers at multiple events.

In Salem at the State Capital grounds, Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander, Oregon Military Department Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, delivered remarks, honoring fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.

During a Memorial Day service held at the Restlawn Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, retired Oregon Army National Guard Col. Kevin Dial addressed attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation.

The Oregon National Guard provides the citizens of the State of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of citizen Soldiers and Airmen, equipped and trained to respond to any contingency, natural or man-made. “Always Ready, Always There.”

 

 

Plan Ahead for Evacuations During the 2025 Wildfire Awareness Month 

 

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.

 

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.

 

Medford, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on proposed timber sales to reduce wildfire risk from dead and dying trees across about 5,300 acres in Applegate Valley near Jacksonville. 

Sales would remove dead and dying trees in strategic locations. The work would be along roadways, near homes, and in locations where fire managers could best stop fires while they are small. 

“This project will improve life for Americans in many important ways,” said BLM Ashland Field Manager Lauren Brown. “Removing dead and dying trees is critical for firefighter safety and the people who use these lands. And harvesting timber while it still has value collects revenue for the American taxpayers.” 

The BLM will host a field trip to the area from 5-7 p.m. on June 11, 2025. During the field trip, BLM foresters will discuss the bureau’s plans and show project sites where dead tree removal has already happened. Please RSVP for more information to BLM_OR_AFO_VMP@blm.gov. 

The U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties would split sale proceeds. Preliminary estimates show the harvest could produce at least 14 million board feet of timber, enough to build more than 850 homes and support nearly 200 local jobs. 

Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments can be submitted through the ‘Participate Now’ option. The comment period will close June 23, 2025. 

 

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.

 

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

 

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.

 

Axial Seamount, an active underwater volcano situated roughly 300 miles directly west of Astoria, Oregon, is exhibiting indications that have prompted scientists to predict a possible eruption.

The volcano, located about a mile beneath the ocean’s surface, is characterized as being “almost continuously active,” either erupting or gearing up for its next occurrence. Over the past thirty years, researchers have recorded three eruptions at Axial Seamount and, given its reliable behavioral patterns, they have projected a potential eruption by the year’s end.

This activity is meticulously observed through a cabled observatory that delivers real-time data from instruments positioned on the seafloor.

Skinny, the oldest harbor seal in the world, is reaching the milestone of 50 years of age.

In the wild, harbor seals typically live into their 20s, whereas those under human care can survive into their 30s, or in Skinny’s exceptional case, far longer. Skinny was discovered stranded on a beach in Washington state in 1975, orphaned, dehydrated, and malnourished.

She received care at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium before being relocated to the Oregon Coast Aquarium in 1992. A public celebration is scheduled for June 3rd.

 

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