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, JANUARY 16, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Air Stagnation Advisory until January 20, 2026
Today
Sunny, with a high near 50. Light north wind. Overnight, clear with a low of 26 degrees.
See Road Camera Views around the Klamath Basin:
Lake of the Woods
Doak Mtn.
Hiway 97 at Chemult
Hiway 140 at Bly
Hiway 97 at GreenSprings Dr.
Hiway 97 at LaPine
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Klamath County teachers ratified what leaders are calling their best contract in decades, winning some measures that teachers in the district have been fighting to achieve for more than 20 years.
As county teachers celebrated their victory Monday evening at Henley Elementary School, they said that the win came in the eleventh hour — and that the movement from their district puts more heat on Klamath Falls City Schools going forward.
“We won our strongest contract with the best raises in 20 years by staying united until the end and refusing to give up on the belief that we could secure a contract that would address turnover in our District,” said PJ Gonyaw, a fifth grade teacher at Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “We were stuck on finances up until 20 minutes before the end of our final session, when we finally got the good news that our District had stepped up and decided they do value us and were going to figure it out.”
“This victory shows that educators should stick to their convictions — and that districts that respect us will pay us like they do,” said Jen Todd, a middle school ELA teacher in Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “Budgets reveal priorities. We hope that Klamath Falls City Schools follows the example that Klamath County Schools just set and finally makes movement to offer their educators more than poverty wages. If they don’t, they’ll quickly lose their educators to other Districts that do value them.”
One of the largest non-economic victories was securing comp time for elementary teachers, who sometimes have to take on an entire second class when substitutes aren’t available — something for which they have fought for more than 10 years.
The Oregon Education Association noted, “Klamath Falls City Schools, a separate district but one that watches moves by the County school district closely, pays their lowest paid educators poverty wages under $16 an hour. Classified educators there earning poverty pay demanded mediation shortly before the holidays, after Klamath Falls City Schools cancelled Christmas for their employees by refusing to settle a contract with living wages.”
Klamath County educators and Klamath Falls City Schools educators have bargained in close coordination throughout their negotiations, including using the same expert bargainer, Del Mallory.
“This is an instance of two districts in the same community that both insisted for nearly a year that they cannot budge on their financials — yet Klamath County did anyway, and revealed once again that ‘will’ and ‘won’t’ are simply a matter of values and political will,” said Del Mallory with the Oregon Education Association, who has helped lead financial analysis for both districts.
“The financial reality is that Klamath Falls City Schools gave tens of thousands of dollars to their highest paid non-classroom administrators just weeks ago. Their refusal to pay living wages to their lowest paid employees is a values issue, not a budget issue. They could settle this in their first day of mediation if they made the organizational choice to value their lowest paid employees.”
The Klamath County School District has formally begun the process of searching for a new superintendent following the announcement of Glen Szymoniak’s retirement after eight years in the position.
In a letter submitted on December 29, 2025, Szymoniak indicated that he will remain in his role until July 31 to ensure a smooth transition at the end of the school year. With 40 years as an educator and 18 as superintendent, he described his time with the county as a fulfilling experience.
The school board will officially declare the vacancy and define the recruitment strategy, including the possible hiring of a specialized firm.
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality advisory for Lake County and southern Klamath County, while also extending the advisory for southern Deschutes County.
This is due to stagnant air conditions that are trapping smoke and other air pollutants close to the ground, where they can be inhaled by individuals. DEQ anticipates that the air quality advisory will remain in effect until Friday.
To check the current air quality conditions and advisories, visit DEQ’s Air Quality Index at aqi.oregon.gov or download the OregonAIR app on your smartphone. Residents are advised to consult their local health or air agency regarding current restrictions on woodstove usage. There are frequently exceptions for those who rely solely on wood for heating their homes and for individuals with limited income.
Observations and insights obtained during a visit to locations along the undammed Klamath River by scientists and other individuals last year are influencing their perspectives on the effects of dams.
A group of eight Mongolian scientists, whose expertise encompasses aquatic ecosystems, biology, chemistry, and construction engineering, took part in a tour last October to observe “what it looks like to dam — and undam” the Klamath River, which has historically served as a salmon river originating from tributaries in the Upper Klamath Lake region that flow into the Klamath River.
From 1913 until the removal of the dams, the majority of the Klamath River Basin had been obstructed to salmon and other fish species, including lamprey and steelhead. Three of the four dams constructed on the Klamath mainstem — Iron Gate, Copco No. 1, and Copco No. 2 — were erected without any provisions for fish passage.
Shortly after the removal of the dams, a process that commenced in 2024 and concluded in 2025, Chinook salmon were observed successfully navigating the Keno and Link River dams as well as Upper Klamath Lake, with unexpectedly high numbers recorded in the Williamson and Sprague rivers, which are two significant upstream tributaries.
The visits by the team of Mongolian scientists were conducted to examine the effects of damming and undamming, as Mongolia, an East Asian nation, investigates hydroelectric initiatives.
Oregon Tech has made significant progress towards the establishment of a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, as the university’s trustees have approved the program during their meeting in December.
The proposal has also gained the endorsement of the Statewide Provosts’ Council, which comprises provosts from Oregon’s seven public universities along with Oregon Health & Science University. The program is now set to undergo review by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Should final approvals be obtained, Oregon Tech expects to welcome its first cohort of students in the fall of 2026.
The program will qualify for accreditation by ABET, the accrediting body for engineering and technology, following the graduation of the first cohort. This degree program is structured as an interdisciplinary curriculum featuring various career-oriented tracks. The initial track, Applied Computing, will focus on the practical design and implementation of AI-driven solutions.
Plans for additional tracks in other applied fields are also in the works.
The Oregon Health Authority is providing several recommendations for prioritizing your health in the upcoming year.
This list encompasses quitting tobacco, receiving vaccinations for diseases such as RSV, influenza, and COVID-19, improving your diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and attending to your mental well-being.
The OHA indicates that these choices can significantly influence your lifespan and overall quality of life. As per state statistics, flu cases are increasing due to the emergence of a new variant. Additional resources for maintaining your health this year can be found at oregon.gov/OHA
A new RV park has officially opened its doors near Klamath Falls at the former Reames Golf Course site. The Volcanic Legacy RV Resort commenced operations on Monday, situated adjacent to The Growler Guys Taphouse.
This expansive property was previously the site of the Reames Golf Course and Country Club. The park boasts 70 pet-friendly sites, offering long-term accommodations for stays of up to a month.
Lauren Pochatko, the manager of both The Growler Guys and Volcanic Legacy RV Resort, expressed her hope that this development will attract more visitors to the region. She noted that the location will provide an excellent stop for travelers, particularly those en route to Upper Klamath Lake, Lake of the Woods, or Crater Lake National Park.
Additionally, she highlighted the park’s proximity to The Growler Guys Taphouse, which provides distinctive amenities. The former golf cart paths have been repurposed as walking trails throughout the property.
Furthermore, The Growler Guys are planning to introduce pickleball courts by this summer.
Late last week 39-year-old Joshua Michael Gonhue received a sentence of sixteen (16) years in the custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections from the Klamath County Circuit Court after being found guilty of multiple sex crimes against children.
Gonhue faced convictions on thirteen counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and one count of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree. On December 19, 2025, Gonhue attended a judicial settlement conference, during which he entered a guilty plea to fourteen counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse and was subsequently sentenced by the court.
The prosecution of this case was carried out by the Oregon Department of Justice, with the investigation conducted by the Klamath Falls Police Department in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Justice.
The City of Klamath Falls is pleased to announce the availability of grant funding for Fiscal Year 2026–27 through two funding opportunities: the Economic Development Grant Program and the Community Initiative, Event Sponsorship, and Supporting Sponsorship Funding programs.
The Economic Development Grant Program provides funding to eligible nonprofit organizations that focus on economic development and business improvement within the City of Klamath Falls. The program is designed to foster economic prosperity by supporting efforts related to:
- Business retention, expansion, and recruitment
- Downtown and neighborhood vibrancy
- Small business support
- Housing development
In addition to Economic Development grants, the City is also accepting applications for Community Initiative Funding, Event Sponsorship Funding, and Supporting Sponsorship Funding. These funding opportunities are intended to support community-driven projects, public events, and nonprofit organizations that provide cultural, civic, or community benefits to Klamath Falls residents.
Applications for all funding opportunities will be accepted from January 12, 2026, through March 1, 2026, and funding for both the Economic Development Grant Program and the Community Initiative, Event Sponsorship, and Supporting Sponsorship programs will be available beginning July 1, 2026.
Eligible nonprofits, organizations, and community groups are encouraged to review program criteria and submit applications by the deadline.
For complete program information and access to funding applications, visit www.klamathfalls.city/486/Grants.For additional information, please contact City Administration at (541) 883-5316 or email admin@klamathfalls.city.
The city police are in search of VIPs — volunteers in police services.
The Klamath Falls Police Department made this announcement on Monday afternoon, inviting residents to assist with various clerical and maintenance tasks essential for the smooth operation of the department. As stated by KFPD, VIPs provide support with services such as vacation house checks and the delivery of patrol cars for maintenance and clerical duties, among other responsibilities. In total, volunteers contribute approximately 160 hours of service each month on behalf of KFPD.
Individuals interested in this opportunity to serve as a VIP can obtain further information by reaching out to Captain Rob Reynolds at (541) 883-5336.
Call for Artists: Healthy Klamath and Klamath Falls Downtown Association Launch Wings Walk!
Healthy Klamath is currently accepting proposals for three mural installations of the Wings Walk Collective starting now until March 10th, 2026.
The Wing Walk Collective aims to promote healthy movement and a blend of interactive art in the downtown corridor. This partnership between the Klamath Falls Downtown Association and Healthy Klamath is in its first stages of turning blank slates downtown into interactive wall art. The goal of this is to foster cultural identity, promote physical activity, and engage the public in interactive art installations.
In phase 1, the project will transform parts of main street with the installation of 3-5 “wings” murals to encourage locals and visitors alike to walk, explore, and engage in our downtown corridor in a fresh and playful way. We’re hoping to accomplish this through wings, feathers, and creatures alike, all renditions welcoming and fostering Klamath Falls culture. Each selected artist will have the opportunity to determine the theme and how to accomplish this in their own unique style.
Art locations for this phase include the new Healthy Klamath office at 500 Main Street, the Sky Lakes Wellness Center at 128 S 11th Street, and the Oregon Tech ABA Clinic at 200 Commercial Street Collective Request for Proposals(Please note that art for this location should tie Oregon Tech to Downtown, preferably through Owl wings).
Key Details:
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RFP Opens: January 12, 2026
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Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
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Applicants Selected: March 20, 2026
Selected artists will each receive a stipend and support for reimbursable materials and will be responsible for creating original mural designs that reflect their unique artistic voice while drawing inspiration from Klamath Falls’ vibrant ecosystems and culture. The resulting artworks will serve as both community landmarks and interactive photo opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
All interested artists are encouraged to visithttps://www.healthyklamath.
Masquerade Online Auction at The Ragland Theater!
The Ross Ragland Theater is excited to announce that we’re currently holding a limited-time online auction!
The auction runs until February 14th, 2026 and the cut off time is 5:00PM PST.
All proceeds from the auction go to supporting the Education and Outreach department as part of our annual 2026 Ragland Masquerade Education Fundraiser! Every dollar that is raised from the auction and the masquerade will help ensure that every child that needs a scholarship for our many classes and camps are able to attend. The Ross Ragland Theater never denies a scholarship request.
This auction will feature a variety of memorabilia such as posters, guitar picks, and vinyls from past shows, and some are even signed by the artists themselves! Some of the artists include Code Blue, Lorrie Morgan, Alli Walker, Heart by Heart, and so much more! There is only one of each of most of these items so make sure you check out these one-of-a-kind pieces!
Visit ragland.organd click the ‘Masquerade 2026’ link at the top of the page to check out the auction, see photographs of the memorabilia, and get more information about the event. For any questions about the auction or the Masquerade, email fundraising@ragland.org.
If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Sam Miller at (541) 887-8630.
ABBEY ROAD COMING TO RAGLAND THEATER, APRIL 29, 2026
The Beatles tribute band, Abbey Road, makes it’s way to Klamath Falls, April 29th.
With their tight harmonies, flawless note for note renditions of Beatles hits, custom–tailored costumes, vintage instruments, Liverpudlian dialect and precise attention to every detail, Abbey Road is proud to present the “Number Ones….and More” production. The show features virtually every number one single the band achieved in the United Kingdom or United States. For tickets: https://ragland.org/
MODOC ART GALLERY
“THE ART OF” Myra Hamaker-Schelb & Lexis Washburn, now thru Feb. 28th.
The Klamath County Museum will be showcasing their art during the Klamath County Museum open hours.
Join us for the Art Reception: January 17th in the Main Lobby from 1:00 P.M.- 3:00 P.M.
Admission to the gallery is free during regular museum hours, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
KLAMATH ART GALLERY
The Klamath Art Gallery Presents: Small Works & Miniatures – “Where Art Lives”
- January 4-25, 2026
The gallery is open Wednesday – Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Klamath Art Association Facebook
Around the State of Oregon
Two people shot last week by Border Patrol agents in Portland now face federal criminal charges, according to court documents from the Department of Justice.
Both were shot after allegedly trying to run over officers after being approached in their car, then fled away on January 8th.
Luis David Niño-Moncada has been charged with aggravated assault against a federal agent and damage to federal property. Both individuals have been discharged from the hospital and are currently in federal custody.
Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras faces charges of illegal entry and is being held in Tacoma. Both have been released from the hospital.
Both individuals are tied to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.
The case has garnered national attention as things remain tense in Portland with protests that often turn violent with no help from local police, Mayor Keith Wilson or Governor Tina Kotek.
Republican leaders in the Oregon Legislature are expressing criticism towards the Democrats’ reaction to the shooting of two individuals by Customs and Border Patrol agents that occurred last week.
During a traffic stop in Portland on Jan. 8th, CBP agents shot and injured the two illegal residing individuals connected with Tren de Aragua, a known transnational organized crime syndicate from Venezuela.
Republicans assert that Democrats reacted prematurely, as they often do, prior to the complete understanding of the facts, and that their rhetoric exacerbated the situation.
The Trump administration alleges that the two suspects are linked to a Venezuelan gang, and one of them was said to have been involved in a shooting incident in Portland last summer.
Jackson County Grand Jury Indicts Woman on 88 Felony Animal Abuse And Neglect Charges
The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office announced that in the afternoon on January 13, 2026 the Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Jana Dene Tepper, 74, on one count of Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree, 29 counts of Felony Animal Neglect in the First Degree, and 58 counts of Felony Animal Neglect in the Second Degree, for a total of 88 felony charges.
The charges follow a search warrant executed on January 6, 2025, at a residence in the 400 block of Crystal Drive in Eagle Point by the Eagle Point Police Department, where officers rescued 58 dogs and discovered 30 deceased dogs. Each charge corresponds to an individual animal found at the residence.
Ms. Tepper is scheduled to appear for arraignment on the indictment today at 1:45 PM. She remains in custody at the Jackson County Jail with bail set at $100,000. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Madelyn Reese. Due to the pending criminal proceedings, no further details will be released at this time.
Former Grants Pass Employee Pleads Guilty to Multiple Felony Sex Crimes
On January 13, Timothy James Conway, a former Grants Pass City employee, pleaded guilty to 3 Class B-Felony sex crimes falling under Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 2nd Degree.
As part of the global plea offer, 17 counts will be dismissed. He pleaded guilty in Josephine County Circuit Court before Judge Mathew Galli and will be sentenced Monday, February 2nd at 10 a.m.
James Conway, the economic development specialist for the city, had been placed on leave in June pending the outcome of an employment investigation. This comes after the city learned of criminal charges filed against Conway.
“As stewards of public trust, City employees are held to the highest moral and ethical standards,” the city of Grants Pass wrote in a statement. “In the weeks ahead, the City will determine the most appropriate steps forward once an investigation has been completed.”
186th Infantry Regiment Welcomed Home to Medford after Egypt Deployment
MEDFORD – Nearly 200 Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment were formally welcomed home Jan. 11 during a demobilization ceremony at South Medford High School.
The ceremony, presided over by Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon’s adjutant general, honored the unit’s nine-month deployment to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula as part of the Multinational Force and Observers mission.”Welcome home,” Gronewold said. “Those two words carry the weight of nearly a year of service, sacrifice, and separation.”The 205-soldier battalion, designated USBATT 74 during the deployment, served alongside military forces from 14 other nations supervising the implementation of security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace.”
In a region marked by volatility and tension, you stood watch. You maintained peace. You prevented violations of that historic treaty,” Gronewold said. “You represented not just Oregon, not just the United States, but the cause of peace itself.”Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, battalion commander, said the mission provided security for two camps in the Sinai while operating remote observation sites monitoring key routes and airfields between Egypt and Israel.
“We observed military aircraft, vehicles, and equipment to ensure that both countries were abiding by what is directed in the peace treaty,” Rapp said.The deployment tested the unit during a period of heightened regional tensions. The battalion faced a three-month lockdown period when MFO bases were identified as potential targets during conflicts in the region.
“There was about a 48 to 72-hour period where we were in full combat equipment for 24 hours a day, other than sleeping,” Rapp said. “We had to be inside a hardened building, we had to be in our full kit, even to go eat chow.”
Despite operational challenges, Rapp emphasized the mission’s unique aspects, particularly the multinational integration.”What I would say the best thing about it was the level of multinational integration and the fact that we were working so closely with all our partners,” Rapp said. “There were 15 nations, including us, that we worked with on a daily basis.”
The battalion worked most closely with forces from Fiji, Colombia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Uruguay, and Japan, participating in combined training exercises and sporting tournaments that built international relationships.
The deployment also provided extensive training opportunities. Soldiers conducted air insertion training, aeromedical evacuation exercises, range time, and leadership courses, often integrated with multinational partners.
“The 1-186th Infantry really went above and beyond to train throughout the whole deployment,” Rapp said.Command Sgt. Maj. Evan Garner emphasized the unit’s growth during the deployment.”The battalion did come back stronger,” Garner said. “There was a multitude of opportunities for soldiers to train both within our units and battalions and then cross-train between nations. We worked with 15 different national partners over there and spent many, many hours and days learning about what they do and teaching them what we do also, so we have a better knowledge across the board of operations.”
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has reported that a pilot initiative aimed at assisting young adults facing homelessness has yielded encouraging outcomes.
This program operates by integrating various forms of support, including cash assistance, housing navigation, personal finance education, and additional resources.
The Direct Cash Transfer Plus pilot program is designed to empower young Oregonians to attain independence, achieve stability, and prevent chronic homelessness in adulthood. It is financed through an interagency agreement between ODHS and Oregon Housing and Community Services, and is implemented through a collaboration with Point Source Youth and the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program (YEHP) within ODHS.
Furthermore, it collaborates with several other agencies and organizations to enhance the support provided.
A total of 120 participants, aged between 18 and 24, received $1,000 monthly for a duration of two years. Of these participants, 72% successfully found employment or enrolled in educational programs. Additionally, 91% reported being housed by the conclusion of the program.
Southern Oregon PBS has announced that it will persist in its operations despite significant transformations occurring in public broadcasting across the nation, following the recent decision by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to dissolve after Congress removed all of its federal funding.
Last summer, Congress sanctioned a rescissions package that retracted approximately $1.1 billion in funding that had been previously designated for PBS and NPR via CPB.
At that time, Southern Oregon PBS CEO Phil Meyer cautioned that these cuts would lead to “drastic changes,” highlighting that CPB funding constituted around 37% of the station’s yearly budget. Currently, Meyer indicates that these changes are already in progress — but not in the manner that many had anticipated.
Consequently, Southern Oregon PBS has successfully avoided layoffs and service reductions that have affected various public media stations in other parts of the country.
Meyer notes that viewer contributions now represent approximately 88% of the station’s financial resources.
Terri Lee Brown is pursuing justice following a wrongful imprisonment that has caused significant disruption in her life.
The Oregon Supreme Court determined that she was unjustly sent back to prison, and she is now initiating a $10 million lawsuit against Governor Tina Kotek for compensation.
Brown was first released from prison in December 2020, eight months ahead of schedule, as part of a COVID-19 initiative aimed at decreasing the prison population. She had been serving a five-year sentence for mail theft and drug possession.
Her attorney, Benjamin Haile, pointed out that many others were released under comparable conditions. Following her release, Brown faced rearrest on two occasions for parole violations. Nevertheless, by 2023, she had fulfilled her post-release supervision requirements. Haile further noted that by the time of her rearrest, the sentence she was serving would have already concluded.
A year later, Haile stated that Governor Kotek had annulled several releases granted by prior governors, which resulted in Brown’s rearrest.
Oregon wheat producers are now aware of the implications of the Trump administration’s $12 billion financial assistance for farmers.
They express that the U.S.D.A. $39 per acre compensation they will receive will only cover a portion of their crop production costs. Throughout the past year, producers have faced low crop prices coupled with high production expenses.
Oregon wheat ranks among the most significant commodity crops cultivated in the state. More than 90% of this crop is exported, primarily to Asian nations, where it is largely processed into noodles, dumplings, and various soft pastries.
In 2025, Oregon wheat growers cultivated 750,000 acres of wheat, resulting in a yield of 52 million bushels, which is estimated to be worth around $270 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s data.
However, prices have remained depressed for nearly two years, hovering around $5.90 per bushel for the type of wheat predominantly grown by farmers in the Pacific Northwest. Many producers are struggling to achieve even a break-even point.
In November, educational institutions throughout Oregon engaged in College Application Week, a statewide initiative aimed at assisting high school seniors in applying to colleges and career training programs.
Over 80 high schools and community organizations participated, aiding more than 6,000 students. Collectively, these students submitted over 10,000 applications to community colleges, universities, and career and technical programs. College Application Week serves to eliminate obstacles for students who may be the first in their families to pursue higher education or who require additional support during the application process.
Schools organized application labs, classroom workshops, college visits, and individualized support sessions to facilitate a smoother and less daunting application experience. Throughout the state, schools utilized this period to enhance college-going systems.
Numerous schools synchronized classroom activities with application deadlines, established dedicated time for seniors to focus on applications and financial aid tasks, and fostered increased collaboration among counsellors, teachers, and community partners. These initiatives assisted students in staying organized, adhering to deadlines, and gaining a better understanding of their postsecondary options.
College Application Week is instrumental in enhancing access to education beyond high school across Oregon. By providing students with time, guidance, and motivation to complete their applications, the program enables more students to view college and career training as viable options. Each autumn, this initiative leads to elevated application rates, a more robust college-going culture, and a clearer pathway for students as they approach graduation.
Measles Cases in Oregon
Health authorities in Oregon are currently on heightened alert following the state’s initial confirmed cases of measles for the year 2026 in Linn County.
As reported by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), two individuals have exhibited symptoms of this highly contagious virus. Officials are advising anyone who visited the Emergency Department of Lebanon Community Hospital between 8:53 p.m. on January 6 and 7 a.m. on January 7, or the Emergency Department of Albany General Hospital from 4:59 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. on January 7, to reach out to their healthcare provider without delay.
Measles is transmitted through the air and can remain viable for up to two hours after an infected individual has vacated the area. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that begins on the face before disseminating.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of individuals with symptoms to contact medical facilities in advance to mitigate the risk of further exposure.
Colder overnight temperatures prompt home heating fire safety reminder from Oregon State Fire Marshall
SALEM, Ore. – With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.
This past weekend, the Baker City Fire Department responded to two home fires related to fireplaces and chimneys. In Portland, a 64-year-old woman was taken to the hospital after a house fire Monday morning. Portland Fire and Rescue said she later died. Investigators believe the suspected cause of this fire is use of an extension cord on an auxiliary space heater.
“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”
The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:
- Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
- Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
- Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
- Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
- Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.
Poor leadership with budgets continues from liberal Governor Tina Kotek, who has not been able to stabilize maintaining essential services at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
ODOT is still confronted with potential layoffs and service cutbacks, alongside an anticipated budget shortfall of $242 million. In advance of the February session, Kotek is appealing to legislators to reallocate funds from current transportation budgets to support core operations.
Additionally, the governor is seeking to repeal HB 3991 and establish a new direction moving forward. The governor indicated that she will convene with stakeholders, which include a bipartisan assembly of lawmakers and technical specialists, to formulate a new transportation funding and investment strategy for 2027. Meantime, road maintenance and projects won’t be getting anywhere. Stay tuned.
Oregon Health Authority statement: West Coast Health Alliance continues to endorse AAP-recommended child, adolescent immunization schedules
Last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) signed a decision memorandumto revise the Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule and significantly reduce the number of vaccinations routinely recommended for all U.S. children. Oregon parents may want to follow this highly recommended decision regarding vaccinations.
However, according to the West Coast Health Alliance, this decision may threaten an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases in children nationwide. Children getting sick from the diseases prevented by recommended immunizations leads to missed school for children, missed work for parents, and even hospitalization and death in some children.
The current American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule is based on established vaccine safety and effectiveness evidence. AAP recommendations consider:
- When children are most vulnerable to diseases;
- When vaccines work best with children’s immune systems;
- The safety of vaccinations being recommended;
- The risk of diseases in the United States;
- Our current access to health care and immunizations; and
- Cost effectiveness of implementing national recommendations for a particular vaccination.
While the first three concerns are similar across countries, the last three concerns may differ considerably between countries. The AAP-recommended immunization schedule serves as a starting point for discussions between families and their providers, as it always has. Parents should continue to make informed decisions about the vaccines that their children receive based on discussions with their child’s health care provider.
We do not expect these changes to affect insurer coverage for vaccines for this plan year. All child and adolescent immunizations recommended as of Dec. 31, 2025, will remain available and covered by public and private insurers however the changes create confusion and will put more children at risk of preventable diseases.
The West Coast Health Alliance will continue to review available vaccine science and ensure continued access to recommended vaccines. Each state is examining the impact of these federal changes on vaccine access in our respective states. WCHA and AAP continue to support these longstanding recommendations including informed parental decisions for the best protection of their children.
The West Coast Health Alliance was formed to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by science, effectiveness and safety at a time when CDC leadership changes, reduced transparency and the compromise of key advisory panels have called into question the federal government’s capacity to address the nation’s public health challenges.
Families in rural Oregon who are raising children frequently encounter limited opportunities for after-school activities that enhance social skills, academic achievement, and safety.
According to a survey conducted by the Afterschool Alliance, a national nonprofit organization, five out of six children in Oregon could gain from after-school programs but are unable to access them due to high costs or distance. For families residing outside urban centers, the closest program is often situated more than an hour away.
The survey revealed significant support for after-school programs from both Republican and Democratic parents. Some parents indicated that after-school activities enable them to work longer hours, increase their productivity, and alleviate concerns regarding their children’s wellbeing, as reported in the survey.
Be Prepared For Winter Driving
If you’re planning to drive the roads, AAA recommends making sure your vehicle is ready to travel long distances. Last year, the company rescued 600,000 Americans on the roadside, including 6,500 Oregonians.
Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires were the top issues.
VisitAAA.com/winterprepfor tips and travel advice, including what to put in an emergency kit.
Beginning in February, air travelers in the United States who do not possess a REAL ID will incur a fee of $45, as announced by the Transportation Security Administration on Monday.
Although the updated ID has been mandatory since May, passengers lacking it have previously been permitted to pass through security with additional screening and a cautionary notice.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, 94% of travelers are already compliant, and the new fee aims to motivate travelers to acquire the ID. REAL ID refers to a state-issued license or identification card that complies with federal standards and fulfills enhanced requirements established following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
What to expect when visiting Oregon State Parks in 2026
As this year comes to a close, Oregon State Parks is looking back on 2025 and planning for the 2026 season.
This year Oregon State Parks welcomed millions of visitors, maintained nearly 1,000 miles of trails, hosted hundreds of events including mushroom hikes and star parties and finished dozens of projects from the restoration of the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse to repaving the campground at Silver Falls State Park.
State parks also updated many of its fees to reflect increasing costs and decreasing Oregon State Lottery funding. Depending on the fee, the last update was anywhere from seven to 15 years ago.
Staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors for the 2026 season with guided hikes, seasonal events and outdoor adventures. To help visitors enjoy the more than 250 state parks and know what to expect next year, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department gathered the upcoming updates in one place.
What’s new in 2026:
- 12-month parking permits will increase from $30 to $60 for Oregon residents and to $75 for out-of-state residents due to the out-of-state surcharge.
- 24-month parking permits will not be sold in 2026. Existing permits will be honored until they expire.
- Oregon State Parks will no longer sell Oregon Pacific Coast Passports but will honor passports purchased in 2025 until they expire.
- Oregon State Parks will no longer honor Jackson County parking permits.
Winter/Spring 2026
- OPRD is considering updates to its Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy. The proposed changes would update the rules around cancellations, refunds, special access passes and rate ranges starting as soon as Feb. 2026. The proposed changes are designed to improve the long-term financial sustainability of the state park system and maximize the availability of campsites for visitors by encouraging early cancellation. Public comment is expected to run from December 1 to January 15, 2026. Final approval is required by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission.
- Additional parks will require a parking fee. The specific parks and implementation date is still being finalized.
- Implement fees to use dump stations at Oregon State Parks to support the cost of that service.
- State Parks Day (June 6), will continue to offer free parking for Oregon residents. Camping fees will no longer be waived on that day pending approval of the proposed Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy updates.
“The changes are critical to sustaining state park operations and services now and for the future. We appreciate visitors’ continued support as these necessary changes are implemented,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Director (OPRD) Director Lisa Sumption.
OPRD is projecting at $14 million budget shortfall this biennium due to decreasing lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding. OPRD does not receive general fund tax revenue for operations.
OPRD will continue to review and update fees and operations to keep providing high-quality visitor experiences and sustain parks now and in the future.
In addition to increasing fees, OPRD is also streamlining costs, planning to add more cabins and yurts to expand capacity and increase revenue and looking for new partnerships and sponsorships to help build a more sustainable funding future.
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