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 BasinLife.com, KFLS News/Talk 1450AM/102.5FM, The Herald and News, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call them at 541-882-6476.
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Mostly sunny, with a high near 45. West wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts to 20 mph. Overnight, cloudy with a low near 28 degrees.
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Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Earthquake Last Night Near Bonanza
A magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck near Bonanza Monday night, March 9, 2026, at 10:52 p.m. according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor was located approximately 22 miles east of Bonanza at a shallow depth of 4 miles.Lake Ewauna Wellness Project Begins
Construction crews have started reinforcing a levee along Lake Ewauna, marking the beginning of the main construction phase of the Lake Ewauna Wellness Project.
According to the Klamath Falls Herald and News, this long-term project aims to transform the lake, which has been affected by years of industrial activity, into a healthier natural and recreational area for the Klamath Basin. The plan includes restoring wetlands, improving water quality, and creating more public access to the lake.
About 65 acres of wetlands will be restored or created. These wetlands are expected to help reduce oxygen loss in the water and lower high levels of ammonia, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
The Klamath County Economic Development Association is leading the project. Lake Ewauna is the source of the Klamath River and was once part of a rich ecosystem often called the “Everglades of the West” because of its diverse wildlife.
Historically, the Klamath River was one of the most productive salmon rivers on the West Coast. Native American communities depended on the river’s large fish populations for food.
In 2022, the Klamath County Economic Development Association and the Klamath County Board of Commissioners began addressing the lake’s water quality problems by allocating $1 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.
School District and Staff Unable to Reach Agreement
Negotiations between the lowest-paid employees in the Klamath Falls City Schools district and school officials have not yet reached an agreement.
Members of the Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE) met with a mediator and district representatives for the second time on Thursday, but the two sides were unable to settle on a compromise.
Shortly after the meeting began, the school district released a statement from Superintendent Keith Brown, according to the Klamath Falls Herald and News.
During the first day of mediation last week, the district proposed a $3 per hour pay increase for all classified staff. The proposal also included a 3% annual raise for the following two years.
The district also suggested one-time bonuses of $300 for employees who work less than five hours per day and $500 for those who work longer shifts.
In addition, the district proposed restructuring pay for para-educators and food service workers, which would provide immediate pay increases for most employees along with the $3 hourly raise.
WIC Program Supports Nutrition for Families
Officials at Klamath County Public Health are proud of the nutrition programs provided through WIC (Women, Infants, and Children).
In 2025, about 2,900 women, infants, and children received services through the program.
Breastfeeding for the first six months is widely recommended as the best nutrition for infants. However, maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is also very important for a child’s development. Good nutrition plays an important role in health throughout a person’s life.
Harvard University has created a “Healthy Eating Plate” to help people better understand how to build balanced meals. The guide offers simple recommendations for creating a healthy diet.
The federal government has raised the criteria for obtaining SNAP benefits, and the State of Oregon is providing assistance.
The Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Employment Department say more SNAP recipients must now show they are working, looking for work, or in training to keep their benefits.
The new rules apply to more people than before, including some adults up to age 64 and some households with older children. Some recipients will also need to meet these requirements for longer than three months.
SNAP Director Amya Hoffman says many people may already qualify through jobs, volunteering, or other activities. Free help is available through WorkSource Oregon, which has 37 centers across the state. For more info, go to WorkSourceOregon.org.
A second lawsuit from a woman in Klamath Falls been filed challenging Oregon’s decision to move the state gas tax referendum from the November election to the May primary, arguing the change unfairly limits voter participation.
The suit, filed Thursday in U.S. District Court in Eugene, was brought by Mary Martin, a 73-year-old disabled woman from Klamath Falls.
It contends that because the legislature delayed approval of the referendum, Oregonians now face the burden of either paying $1,200 or collecting 500 signatures by March 12 to submit an argument in the voters’ pamphlet.
“My problem is that I’m in a wheelchair, and if I went up to a door, I wouldn’t be able to even knock if there were stairs,” Martin said. “I wouldn’t physically be able to spend a lot of time gathering the signatures. So for them to move up the election to the primary, it just doesn’t seem right.”
The lawsuit, filed by the Fir Law Group in Silverton, names Secretary of State Tobias Read as the defendant. Several Republican state lawmakers have joined Martin’s effort, supporting a motion for a temporary restraining order to remove both the $1,200 fee and the signature requirement.
A hearing on the temporary restraining order is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, at 10 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Michael Simon.
Martin said she and other volunteers worked in difficult conditions to gather signatures for the November ballot, and the legislative change has made it nearly impossible to complete the process in time. “It’s very unfair that they changed the date,” she said. “We wouldn’t have enough time to get signatures to submit the argument for the voter pamphlet.”
The lawsuit underscores ongoing debate over the timing of citizen initiatives and whether shifting elections to a lower-turnout primary undermines voter access and participation.
The Kruise of Klamath 2026 has been announced for June 25-28, 2026 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, with many great events and sponsors coming together for this great annual event in the community.
Car owners will want to register as soon as possible. See all the info at www.kruiseofklamath.org. For questions and information, you can also call 541-892-3403 or email kruiseofklamath@gmail.com.
Schedule of Events so far:
* Thursday, June 25th Registration
• 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m at Klamath Basin Senior Center / 2045 Arthur St. Goody bag pick-up for those that have pre-registered or registration for those that need to do so.
Mini Shows
• 10am-Noon: Klamath Community College Automotive Program / 7390 S 6th St. Bldg. 5
• Noon-2pm: Growler Guys / 4201 US Hwy 97
• 2-4pm: Garage Tap House / 603 S 6th St. Let’s get the weekend started early! These informal mini shows are open to all vehicles 1979 and older (registered or not) plus any vehicle 1980 and newer registered for the Kruise.
KLA-MO-YA Casino Anniversary Event • Noon to 6pm at Kla-Mo-Ya Casino / 34333 Hwy 97.
KLA-MO-YA Casino welcomes Kruise of Klamath cars to show off your ride! All participants will receive a $20 food voucher, $25 Free Play (Bonus Club membership required), a commemorative dash plaque, and a KMYC Anniversary T-shirt. Contact the Bonus Club for complete details at 541-783- 7529 ext. 265. Stop by on your way into town or take the short drive up Hwy 97 to join in on the fun!
Hot Rod Hop • 3:00pm to 7:00pm at Klamath Basin Senior Center / 2045 Arthur St. Hot Rod Hop featuring music, concessions, a dance competition with prizes and we heard there might even be bingo! Each registration comes with one complimentary ticket, additional tickets are $15 each with all proceeds benefiting the Senior Center.
Friday, June 26th Mini Shows
• 8-10am: Waffle Hut / 106 Main St.
• 10am-Noon: Winema Electric / 735 Commercial St.
• Noon-2pm: TBD
• 2-4pm: Mia & Pia’s Pizzeria & Brewhouse & So. Suburban Library / 3545 Summers Ln.
Attend 1 or 4 or any number in between – you choose! These informal mini shows are open to all vehicles 1979 and older (registered or not) plus any vehicle 1980 and newer registered for the Kruise of Klamath. DJ Strohmeyer will be playing the tunes and each mini show location will be offering up their own mix of fun to keep you entertained.
Registration and Goody Bag Pick-Up
• 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.at Klamath Commons Park / 1112 Main St.
Goody bag pick-up for those that have pre-registered or registration for those that need to do so.
The human resources director of Klamath County School District received a Patriotic Employer Award in recognition of his outstanding support for employees who are members of the military.
The award ceremony took place at Kingsley Field. Jamie Ongman was nominated for this honor by Patrick Rose, a social studies and AVID teacher at Brixner Junior High School, who is also a member of the 173rd Security Forces Squadron stationed at Kingsley Field.
This award, given by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), acknowledges civilian supervisors who excel in their support of employees serving in the National Guard or Reserve.
At the conclusion of the event, Ongman highlighted that providing support to service members is an inherent duty of the district.
KCC and SOU Partner to Expand Access to Teaching Degrees
Klamath Community College and Southern Oregon University have partnered to make teaching degrees more accessible and affordable for students in the Klamath Basin.
Students can start at KCC by earning a two-year Associate of Applied Science in education or a one-year para-educator certificate. Those credits transfer directly to SOU, where students can complete their teaching degree mostly online without leaving the area.
The program allows students to continue living and working locally while finishing their education. About 30 students are currently enrolled, including recent high school graduates and working adults. Some participants are already teaching in local schools.
KCC also works with the Klamath County School District to offer dual-credit classes, giving high school students the chance to earn up to 17 college credits and start working toward a teaching career early.
For more information about KCC and its programs, visit www.klamathcc.edu.
Ella Redkey Pool Looking For Volunteers
Volunteers are needed at the Ella Redkey Pool for the 3rd Grade Everyone Swims Program.
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- Instructor Training Session: Friday, April 3, 2026: 4:30pm – 6:30pm
- Register Online TODAY!
- Select “Online Registration / My Account”
- Create an account or log into an existing one
- Select the orange “Volunteer Opportunities” tab
- Scroll to the bottom and click the green “Add to Cart” button
- Follow prompts and select the weeks you would like to volunteer
Around the State of Oregon
Opening doors to dental care for Oregon veterans
For a long time, veterans who didn’t qualify for federal VA dental benefits or the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) had limited or no access to dental care, leaving many to delay appointments, live with pain and infection, or skip routine checkups.
Oral health plays a big role in overall health because problems like gum disease can affect the rest of the body, including the heart. Keeping teeth and gums healthy supports whole-body well-being and can help lower the risk of other health issues.
National Invest in Veterans Week (March 1-7) gives us a chance to recognize the many ways veterans strengthen our communities. It also reminds us that supporting veterans means making sure they can access the care they need to stay healthy. One important way Oregon is doing that is by making it easier for veterans to get dental care.
Oregon Health Authority launched the Veteran Dental Program in 2023 to address this need. Veterans who earn a monthly income of up to $5,320 for an individual or up to $11,000 for a family of four may qualify. The program offers services like cleanings, fillings, extractions, dentures and emergency care. Best of all, eligible veterans don’t pay for covered services. It’s making a real difference – more than 4,300 individuals are already enrolled in the program and 892 veterans received dental care in 2025.
Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, says this kind of access is long overdue. “Oral health is health care,” she explains, “and for many veterans—especially aging veterans—dental care has been one of the most significant gaps in access to services. We are helping ensure that veterans who may not qualify for federal VA dental benefits still have access to essential preventive and restorative care, such as dentures.”
If you’re a veteran—or if you know a veteran—now is a great time to learn more about the Oregon Veteran Dental Program. You can find details about eligibility, covered services, and how to get started by visiting OHA’s OHP DentalOnly Programs webpage.
Oregon, along with 21 other states, has granted GoFundMe a two-week period to demonstrate that the fundraising platform is not engaging in the plagiarism of donation web pages or collecting “tips” from contributors.
State Attorney General Dan Rayfield, together with 21 other Attorneys General, has collaborated with charitable regulators to send a letter to the fundraising platform, insisting that it reveal all unauthorized donation web pages and provide comprehensive information regarding the recipients of the donations.
Additionally, they are requesting that GoFundMe clarify how its donation web pages appear in internet search results and to assess whether tips and other fees should be redirected to the charities.
A volunteer assistant volleyball coach in the Lebanon Community School District has been charged with enticing a minor after allegedly sending sexually explicit messages to a student, according to police reports.
Alyssa Joan Baker, 20, from Sweet Home, is facing accusations of transmitting “explicit and inappropriate” messages in 2025 to a volleyball player she had previously coached that same year, as stated by Lebanon police.
The police did not disclose the age of the student to whom Baker purportedly sent the messages, only indicating that Baker had served as a coach for students in the Lebanon Community School District.
The messages were discovered by a parent of the student, who subsequently notified the police on October 31.
Authorities also mentioned that the volleyball season had concluded, and Baker was no longer serving as a volunteer coach at the time the investigation was initiated.
Salem, Oregon – Emma Keen, a high school junior at Oregon School for the Deaf in Salem, is Oregon’s 2026 Poetry Out Loud champion.
Keen received the top score at Saturday’s Poetry Out Loud State Contest, held at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. She will now represent Oregon at the Poetry Out Loud National Finals, to be held April 27-29 in Washington, D.C.
Bena (Bee-nah) Rodecap, a senior who attends Grant High School in Portland, was named runner up. Rodecap would be invited to represent Oregon in the national competition should Keen be unable to attend.
Since 2005, over 4.5 million high school students across the nation have participated in Poetry Out Loud. The program in Oregon is made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Oregon Arts Commission and jurisdictional arts agencies.
Keen, who is student body president at Oregon School for the Deaf, decided to participate in Poetry Out Loud with the encouragement of her educator, Gayle Robertson. She chose to recite “Low-Tide,” by Edna St. Vincent Millay, “From One Who Stays” by Amy Lowell and “I am Like a Leaf” by Yone Noguchi.
“I am so grateful for this experience,” Keen said after being named champion. “I loved having my family here to support me. It’s been really amazing.”
Ocean Shore Permitting process Rule Advisory Committee extended
SALEM, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will extend a Rule Advisory Committee (RAC) convened last fall to review ocean shore permitting and update rules to implement HB 2925 (2025).
The committee will continue to discuss topics including application requirements and processing, emergency and general authorizations, enforcement and fees.
Rule Advisory Committee meetings began in December 2025 and will now continue through July 2026 (remaining meeting dates/times below). The public can watch the livestream on YouTube on OPRD Director’s Office live channel. A recording will be available after each meeting.
OPRD will be updating rules relating to the ocean shore alteration permitting process for the first time in over twenty-five years. Topics will include application requirements and processing, emergency and general authorizations, enforcement, and fees.
Staff will review feedback from the committee, amend the draft as needed and then open the draft rules for public comment in fall 2026. Staff will review public feedback, amend the draft as needed and then present the rules to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for adoption in the spring of 2027.
Additional information and recordings will be available on the agency’s rulemaking website. https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Ocean%20Shore%20Alterations.aspx
Anticipated meeting schedule:
- March 20, 1 – 4 p.m.
- April 24, 1 – 4 p.m.
- May 15, 1 – 4 p.m.
- June 5, 1 – 4 p.m.
- June 26, 8:30 a.m. – noon
- July 28, 1 – 4 p.m.
Business Oregon Selects New Arts and Culture Communications Coordinator
SALEM, Oregon — Business Oregon is pleased to announce the hiring of Heidi Hagemeier as the Communications Coordinator for the Oregon Arts Commission and Cultural Trust programming.
Hagemeier brings over two decades of experience in journalism and communications to the role, along with a career-long dedication to storytelling that connects and inspires. Her professional background is rooted in mission-driven work that benefits local communities.
“Heidi brings an incredible ability to craft stories that resonate and inspire,” said Amy Lewin, Director of Arts & Culture. “That talent is exactly what Oregon’s arts and culture sector needs right now to show how creativity drives our economy and strengthens communities. Her experience will help us amplify that message statewide, ensuring cultural programs continue to deliver impact where it matters most.”
Most recently, she served for nearly eight years as the Director of Communications and Visitor Experience at the High Desert Museum in Bend. During her tenure, she oversaw the doubling of the organization’s digital following, guided brand development and played a key role in successful fundraising efforts.
In her new role, Hagemeier will support the Oregon Arts Commission and Cultural Trust in their efforts to sustain and elevate the state’s cultural landscape. She maintains a firm belief that arts and culture are essential for building economically vibrant communities and elevating shared humanity. See more at artscommission.oregon.gov
Portland Trail Blazers Statement on State House Passing Senate Bill 1501, To Renovate Moda Center in Portland
PORTLAND, Ore. (March 6, 2026) – The Portland Trail Blazers released the following statement today after Senate Bill 1501 passed on the floor of the Oregon State House.
“This is a great day for our community,” said Dewayne Hankins, Portland Trail Blazers President of Business Operations. “Thank you to Speaker Fahey, Majority Leader Bowman, Representative Nosse, and all the members of the Oregon House who passed Senate Bill 1501. Thank you to Governor Kotek, who has championed Oregon’s Arena from the very start. And, thank you to every Oregonian who weighed in throughout the legislative process with stories about what Moda Center and the Blazers mean to them. Rip City truly does run deep. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to renovate Moda Center and catalyze economic growth in the heart of a vibrant Lower Albina neighborhood. Working with local leaders, we’re ready to get started on the next chapter for this franchise.”
ABOUT THE PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Members of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Portland Trail Blazers were founded in 1970 and purchased by the late Paul G. Allen in 1988. The team’s rich heritage includes 37 playoff appearances, three trips to the NBA Finals, an NBA championship in 1977 and a commitment to community service and sustainability. The Trail Blazers are dedicated to positively impacting
With the current Oregon Legislative session just about over, Oregon is taking decisive action to safeguard health care access with the approval of HB 4127 in the House.
This legislation guarantees that state funding for Planned Parenthood remains secure, thereby protecting vital services for the residents of Oregon. House Majority Leader Bowman highlighted the significance of the bill in preserving affordable health care access.
The legislation does not include funding for abortion services, which are prohibited by the Hyde Amendment. Instead, it allocates resources for preventive screenings, contraception, and other essential health services for members of the Oregon Health Plan.
Should federal policies obstruct Medicaid reimbursements, HB 4127 guarantees that state funding will bridge the gap, ensuring the continuation of critical health services. The bill is now progressing to the Senate, with the goal of further reinforcing Oregon’s dedication to health care access.
Oregon is making progress in supporting the mental health of Veterans through the enactment of HB 4132B in the House of Representatives.
This legislation is designed to improve suicide prevention initiatives and broaden support services. As reported by the Oregon House of Representatives, the state has one of the highest rates of veteran suicides in the country, with a veteran taking their own life every three days.
HB 4132B creates a Suicide Prevention Program within the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. It strengthens the Veterans Service Officer Program and updates the Bridge Grant Program. Additionally, the bill instructs the Oregon Judicial Department to consider the expansion of Veterans Treatment Courts throughout all judicial districts.
As the 2026 election approaches, the Oregon Republican Party is set to conduct a gubernatorial debate next month.
The primary candidates vying for the party’s nomination for governor are slated to convene on April 16 in Hillsboro. They are in competition to challenge Democratic Governor Tina Kotek in the upcoming November election.
Among those who have declared their candidacy this year are House Minority Leader and 2022 nominee Christine Drazan, retired professional basketball player and 2010 Republican nominee Chris Dudley, Salem State Representative Ed Diehl, and Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell, along with several others.
The Oregon GOP has stated that candidates must fulfill certain criteria to prove their viability and qualify for the debate. These requirements include raising a minimum of $100,000 from at least 250 individual donors, publishing their platform or priorities on an official campaign website, and committing to support the party’s eventual nominee.
Springfield Man Sentenced to Over 12 Years in Prison for Federal Hate Crime Violation
A Springfield, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison for a federal hate crime after assaulting a victim on the basis of their sexual orientation.
Daniel Andrew McGee, 26, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.
“The right to live safely in one’s community is a fundamental civil right. The District of Oregon remains committed to combatting hate crimes and protecting that right for all,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “While no conviction can undo the harm caused, we hope this sentence will bring some measure of justice to the victim and our community.”
“Hate crimes impact not just individuals, but entire communities,” said Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres. “The FBI works together with our partners to prevent hate crimes from impacting our communities, and every attack on someone because of who and what they are deserves to be acted on by the full extent of the law.”
According to court documents, on the evening of July 5, 2021, McGee met the victim at the victim’s apartment after communicating on the dating application Grindr, an application originally designed for, and primarily used by, gay men. McGee assaulted the victim over the course of several minutes, striking the victim on the head with a wooden tire thumper and using his hands to try to gouge the victim’s eyes out. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries during the assault, including serious head wounds.
The investigation revealed McGee had been researching and planning the attack for weeks. For at least one month prior to the attack, McGee searched the internet for homophobic and graphically violent anti-gay material. McGee planned for the attack by purchasing the weapon and other materials from Amazon and searching the internet for suggestions on how to get away with murder.
On November 18, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene, Oregon, returned a one-count indictment charging McGee with a federal hate crime involving an attempt to kill.
On November 25, 2025, McGee pleaded guilty to count one of the Indictment.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. Joseph Huynh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Tenette Smith, Trial Attorney for the Civil Rights Division Criminal Section, prosecuted the case.
Oregon Health Authority is urging riders to take safety precautions when using e-scooters and e-bicycles, as new data show a sharp increase in serious injuries associated with these “micromobility” or motorized devices.
An analysis by OHA’s Injury and Violence Prevention Program (IVPP), using Oregon hospital and emergency department discharge data, shows that e-scooter-related injuries more than doubled in the past 4 years.
Last year alone saw e-scooter and e-bike tally 509 injuries sending riders to hospitals and emergency rooms.
The Bureau of Land Management sold 27.6 million board feet of timber across 1,255 public acres in Oregon, for a total of $8,327,275, and indicates a strong demand in American lumber manufacturing by exceeding total appraised values by over $3 million. This timber will feed local mills and support jobs in local communities.
The Coos Bay District sold the Eckley Empanada timber tract (1.8 million board feet, 105 public acres) to Harveys’ Selective Logging, Inc., of Creswell, Ore., for $$142,228.
The Medford District sold the Thom Bone timber tract (6 million board feet, 585 public acres) to Estremado Logging Inc. of Gold Hill, Ore., for $458,766.
The Northwest Oregon District sold the Gopher Broke timber tract (7 million board feet, 223 public acres) to Boise Cascade Wood Products of Willamina, Ore., for $2,499,716; and the John Boy timber tract (8 million board feet, 167 public acres) to Rosboro Company, LLC, of Springfield, Ore., for $3,913,070.
The Roseburg District sold the Muley Mount timber tract (5 million board feet, 175 public acres) to Scott Timber Company of Roseburg, Ore., for $1,313,495.
The BLM plans to hold seven sales during March 2026 to offer 56.9 million board feet of timber across 1,939 public acres in Oregon.
The BLM manages 58 million acres of forests, including 2.4 million acres in western Oregon of some of the most productive forests in the world, and is committed to supplying a reliable, secure, and resilient domestic supply of timber. BLM forestry supports economic security, reduces risks from wildfire, conserves fish and wildlife habitat, and decreases costs of energy production. Local communities rely on jobs that come from BLM forests, and timber from public land feeds local industry.
Each year, the BLM forestry program’s sales support approximately 2,000 jobs nationally and generate more than $1 billion for local economies.
More than 20 percent of BLM-managed lands are forest and woodland ecosystems. The BLM ensures the health and resilience of these public forest lands as well as the availability of traditional forest products, such as timber. In fiscal year 2025, the BLM offered 301 million board feet of timber under new sales, good neighbor agreements, and stewardship contracts.
Employment Department Shares Plan to Improve Customer Service and Strengthen Oregon’s Workforce System
SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has released a comprehensive report on its ongoing effort to improve customer service and strengthen Oregon’s public workforce system. The action plan meets expectations outlined by Governor Tina Kotek and demonstrates progress already underway under Director Andrew R. Stolfi.
“Oregonians deserve the best customer service we can provide to make sure they have what they need, especially in times of employment transition,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “The department is taking these issues head on, and the action areas identified in the director’s report will help get us there.”
At the Governor’s direction, OED conducted a review of the customer experience across Unemployment Insurance (UI), Paid Leave Oregon (Paid Leave), Contributions & Recovery (C&R), WorkSource Oregon (WSO), and the Frances Online system. The resulting Customer Service and Workforce Strategies Action Plan includes a prioritized list of 101 customer-focused action steps that fall into four main categories:
- Customer service improvements
- Organizational improvements
- Improvements to Frances Online
- Improvements to the public workforce system
The actions range from high-impact, short-term initiatives to long-term system changes, with the following projects as the highest, most immediate priorities:
- Use AI-assisted tools to improve customer service and employee workflows for faster resolution of common and complex issues.
- Review and simplify all customer-facing communications so customers better understand OED’s processes and can more easily receive benefits.
- Equip WorkSource Oregon centers with additional tools to help customers navigate UI claims.
- Improve how the agency collects and analyzes data to support well-informed goal setting, process improvement, and accountability.
- Create an online live claim status tracker so customers know where they are and what to expect at each step of the process for Paid Leave Oregon and UI.
- Consolidate Title I and Title III Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) administration and funding within OED to improve efficiency and accountability within Oregon’s public workforce system.
“This action plan reflects OED’s deep commitment to improving the services we provide,” OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “It draws from our strengths and is centered on the customer experience, which is where our focus will remain.
When Stolfi joined OED as director, the Governor asked him to lead a thorough review of the agency and develop a comprehensive plan to improve customer service and advance OED’s workforce development mission. In pursuing this directive, OED gathered extensive feedback from across the state through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with more than 5,000 customers, 850 employees, and 240 frontline staff.
That feedback revealed clear, consistent themes across programs and communities, including the need for clearer, faster, and more predictable service for Paid Leave and UI customers, and simpler processes and clearer guidance for employers that engage with OED’s business services.
“Our goal was to identify what is working, where barriers exist, and what improvements will make the greatest difference for the people and businesses we serve,” said Director Stolfi. “You can draw a direct line between the feedback we received and the actions outlined in this plan.”
A plan summary, a categorized list of prioritized actions, and the full action plan are available on the OED website. OED will continue to share progress updates and engage with customers, partners, and the public as we move forward.
“We’ve already started working on many of these projects, and Oregonians should expect to see many changes and improvements in the coming months,” Stolfi said. “Customer service is our top priority, and we will not rest until every Oregonian gets the services they expect in a timely manner.”
The agency has already improved in some key customer service metrics. For example, from July 2025 through January 2026 in Unemployment Insurance, the average time to answer a call was 22 minutes faster than the same seven-month period the prior year, despite a 13.6 percent increase in initial claims filed. The Paid Leave program has also reduced the average time it takes for staff to decide on a claim by 5.8 days, despite a 17.6 percent increase in application volume. This indicates improvements in operational efficiency, even while more Oregonians are using these programs.
“We are encouraged by the progress we’ve already made but recognize that we must continue improving in order to provide the level of customer service Oregonians deserve,” Stolfi said. “This plan lays out exactly how we’ll do that.”
About the Oregon Employment Department
The Oregon Employment Department (OED) provides economic stability to Oregon communities by providing vital services to both businesses and workers. OED supports businesses with finding qualified job candidates, labor market information, tax incentives and support, and retaining talent through economic downturns. OED promotes employment through wage replacement benefits during unemployment and significant life events, job placement, training, and useful career information. Learn more at employment.oregon.gov.
Oregon lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at regulating flavored nicotine pouches. The legislation seeks to close a loophole that currently allows these products to be sold without the same restrictions applied to other tobacco products.
Health experts warn that despite their different appearance, nicotine pouches carry similar risks of addiction as cigarettes and vaping products. Lisa Fischer, a Tobacco Prevention Outreach Coordinator, emphasized that nicotine is highly addictive and can alter brain chemistry by triggering dopamine release, reinforcing repeated use.
Under current Oregon law, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase tobacco products, but that restriction does not currently apply to nicotine pouches.
These smokeless products, which are placed between the gum and lip, have grown increasingly popular in recent years, raising concerns among public health officials.
ATRIO Health Plans is currently facing financial challenges, with an outstanding debt of nearly $60 million owed to Asante for services that have already been provided.
This situation has resulted in a notable alteration in network status for ATRIO members. As stated by Asante, starting January 1, ATRIO’s Medicare Advantage coverage will be considered out of network with Asante.
Members are required to take action before March 31 to prevent any disruption in their care, as new routine appointments will not be accessible after this date, with certain exceptions.
Heather Rowenhorst, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Asante, highlighted their dedication to the community, noting that the non-payment from ATRIO has necessitated challenging decisions.
“This decision underscores our commitment to our communities to ensure the sustainability of Asante and health care in southern Oregon,” Rowenhorst remarked.
Members affected by this change have until March 31 to switch their Medicare Advantage plans. Asante provides resources to assist members in continuing care with their existing providers.
Here Comes Lakeview’s Annual Irish Days Celebration!
This cherished tradition will commence with dinner at the Lakeview Elks Lodge on the evening of Friday, March 13. Guests who present an O’Button will receive a $2 discount on their dinner.
O’Buttons are available for purchase at the Lake County Chamber of Commerce in Lakeview. The dinner on Friday will feature the crowning of both the grand and wee leprechauns, along with a performance by the Sagebrush Echoes. Dan Michaelson has been named this year’s grand leprechaun.
The Wee Leprechaun will be selected through a drawing this Friday. The festivities on Saturday will begin with breakfast at the Eagles Lodge prior to the Irish Days Parade.
The parade lineup is scheduled for 10 a.m., with the parade itself starting at 11 a.m. Additionally, the Eagles Lodge will offer a potato bar lunch; diners can enjoy a $2 discount on lunch with an O’Button.
Beginning on March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will discontinue the waiver of parking fees at an additional 22 day-use parks.
Currently, a day-use parking permit costs $10 for residents of Oregon and $12 for out-of-state visitors, and it is valid for the entire day of purchase at any state park in Oregon. Access to the parks remains complimentary for those who walk, bike, or utilize public transportation.
Visitors arriving by car can present valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a valid 12 or 24-month parking permit. Additionally, visitors who acquire parking permits online or through parking QR codes can link their license plates to the valid payment.
At present, OPRD mandates a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks throughout the state. The selection of the 22 additional parks was based on the amenities and features that necessitate maintenance and operation, including restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps, and more.
The revenue from parking fees contributes to the maintenance and operation costs, ensuring that these facilities remain available for all visitors.
Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.
Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basison the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.
Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.
“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.
Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.
For more information about current openings, visithttps://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department RecruitingOPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.
MARCH IS PROBLEM GAMBLING AWARENESS MONTH – KNOW THE RISKS OF SPORTS BETTING AND WHERE TO FIND HELP
Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Lottery is focusing on collaboration and enhanced community outreach to increase awareness of problem gambling in March – also known as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).
By participating in this annual grassroots campaign, Oregon Lottery works with local and national partners to promote available prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
This year’s theme, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” emphasizes a collective responsibility for preventing gambling-related harm and a community-driven approach to awareness and support.
“We really connected to this year’s theme,” said Stacy Shaw, who leads Oregon Lottery’s Safer Play Program and is on the board of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling (OCPG). “We see our biggest impacts when we collaborate broadly to reach our players and develop resources and tools for Oregonians impacted by gambling issues.”
The Oregon Gambling Research Center, a division of the OCPG, recently completed a research study that highlighted the important role communities play in supporting Oregonians.
“Problem Gambling Awareness Month reminds us that gambling-related harm affects individuals, families, and communities, and that prevention and support are critical to recovery and healing,” said Glenn Yamagata, executive director of OCPG. “Our research shows the importance of strengthening these community pathways to reduce harm and create meaningful, lasting change.”
Oregonians can access online tools and connect with free, professional counseling year-round by going to the OPGR website. The website provides a wide variety of resources designed to help people wherever they are on their help seeking journey. This includes free access to EVIVE – a first of its kind digital health app, offering solutions for quitting, moderating, or simply playing safer. New this year to anyone affected by gambling is GamFin, a free financial counseling and online community that offers support.
Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery revenue has funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $155 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.
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