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Thursday, April 23, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny, with a high near 64. Northwest wind around 7 mph. Overnight, clear with a low near 30.
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
The 25th annual Living Well Health Fair will be held Saturday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Linman Hall/Exhibit Hall 1 at the Klamath County Fairgrounds, 3531 South Sixth Street.
The free event offers health screenings, educational exhibits and interactive activities. Free cholesterol and blood glucose screenings will be available, and people should fast 8-12 hours before testing for the most accurate results. Cascades East Family Medicine doctors and Sky Lakes Primary Care Providers will interpret results at no charge.
“The Living Well Health Fair is all about making health approachable, engaging and accessible for everyone,” Bennett said. “It’s an opportunity for our community to explore local resources, connect with care teams and take simple, meaningful steps toward better health—reflecting our mission to inspire human potential through wellness.”
Healthy Klamath will present an inflatable lung model to highlight respiratory health concerns like the effects of smoking, lung disease and air quality on lung function. People can walk through the exhibit to learn about lung health.
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute will bring an inflatable colon to educate the community on colorectal health. The exhibit covers the importance of screenings for colon cancer, recognizing symptoms and understanding prevention strategies.
Community partners will offer demonstrations and resources covering mental health, physical health, aging and substance use disorders. Food trucks will be on-site for lunch.
For more information, visit Sky Lakes’ website or follow updates on social media.
The trouble continues for the Klamath Falls City School District.
The Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees says its recently approved contract with the Klamath Falls City Schools will not impact the union’s ongoing legal complaints against Superintendent Keith Brown.
According to the union, several unfair labor practice complaints remain active against Brown, and none of those complaints were withdrawn as part of the new agreement.
Union leaders say one of the biggest gains in the contract is a new provision giving both the union and the school district the chance to present their positions to the School Board when serious labor disputes arise.
Beginning with the new contract, both sides may appear before the School Board at the first regular monthly meeting after a Level 3 grievance is filed. Union representatives say employees were previously denied that opportunity.
The union says greater School Board involvement in major labor disputes—similar to procedures already used in other Oregon school districts—will help prevent what it describes as abusive and unlawful labor practices by Superintendent Brown.
The legal complaints against Brown remain unresolved, and the union says it will continue pursuing them while monitoring how the new grievance process is implemented.
The Klamath Tribes are set to undertake the first large-scale reintroduction of Chinook salmon in their ancestral territory, a significant initiative supported by a recent allocation of $6 million from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and NOAA Fisheries.
This funding aims to address the urgent need for the critically endangered spring-run Chinook salmon. The Tribes plan to create up to 40 remote incubation sites in cold-water streams located above Upper Klamath Lake, while also enhancing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Klamath Fish Hatchery near Chiloquin by adding four raceways and improving water efficiency.
Klamath Tribes Chairman William Ray Jr. emphasized that these funds will benefit not only the Tribes but the broader ecosystem, as the proposed streamside incubation system will feature secure tanks, spawning gravel, and necessary plumbing equipment.
Dr. Earl Ferguson, the former superintendent of city schools, has died at the age of 94 in Chandler, Arizona.
He rose through the ranks of school administration, ultimately serving as the superintendent of Klamath Falls City Schools from 1966 to 1990. Renowned for his commitment to fiscal responsibility, Dr. Ferguson also advocated for well-considered bond measures to ensure that students had access to quality facilities and exceptional educators.
His contributions to K-12 education in Oregon were widely acknowledged, as he held leadership positions on the board and as President of both the Oregon School Activities Association and the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators.
Memorial services will take place at Munselle-Rhodes Funeral Home in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed by a concluding service at the Weston Pioneer Cemetery and a reception at the Long Branch Cafe & Saloon.
For nearly eight years, K-9 Bullitt served as a reliable companion during calls marked by uncertainty. The Belgian Malinois joined the Klamath Falls Police Department in August 2017, where he was trained for both patrol duties and narcotics detection.
His presence was crucial in situations where quick decision-making and instinct could mean the difference between order and chaos. However, this chapter has now concluded.
Following a diagnosis of an aggressive form of cancer, Bullitt has been retired, and while he is undergoing treatment, his days of active duty are behind him. He will now enjoy a quieter life at home with his handler, Trahern Fox, where the focus shifts from urgent commands and searches to the comfort of familiar voices and routine care, offering a sense of stability that his working life seldom provided.
Students from Henley High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs achieved remarkable success at the SkillsUSA Oregon State Conference held on April 10 and 11, securing six state titles and qualifying several teams for national competition.
A total of 45 students represented various fields, including health occupations, engineering, Junior ROTC, and construction. The Hornets excelled in their endeavors, earning six state championships and finishing in the top three in 12 out of 14 competitions.
Eleven students are set to compete at the national SkillsUSA conference in Atlanta this June, where the organization focuses on enhancing leadership, teamwork, and technical skills through practical competitions and industry-related experiences.
Among the state titles won by Henley were Community Service, Mobile Robotics, Job Interview, Electrical Construction Wiring, Engineering Technology Design, and Commercial Drones, with several teams achieving multiple top placements in events such as commercial drones and job interviews.
Klamath County anticipates having around $290,000 in Title III project funds available.
The application period for grant requests will open on May 1, 2026, and close at 5:00 p.m. on May 29, 2026. Projects must align with one of the three Title III categories: Firewise, Search and Rescue, or Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Submissions that do not adhere to the specified category criteria outlined on pages 4-6 of the Project Submission Form, or that are received after the deadline, will be disqualified.
Title III of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, as renewed under Public Law 115-141, mandates a 45-day public comment period. Following this period, the Committee and Commissioners will evaluate the feedback and move forward with finalizing agreements.
It is expected that agreements for the approved projects will be executed by August 3, 2026. For further details and application submissions, please visit the Klamath County Finance Grants webpage.
Lake County District Attorney Paul Charas has announced his resignation after just over a year into his four-year term, attributing his decision to a persistent lack of funding that hampers his ability to effectively prosecute cases.
Charas expressed to OPB that the insufficient resources prevent him from fulfilling his duties in an ethical and moral manner.
Meanwhile, a Colorado company is proposing the construction of a biofuel plant in Lakeview, Oregon, aimed at producing jet fuel and diesel for Southwest Airlines and the U.S. Department of Defense, which could generate jobs but also increase air pollution.
The Lake County District Attorney’s Office operates on an annual budget of approximately $202,000, with most of the funds allocated to employee expenses, excluding Charas’s salary, leaving minimal resources for prosecuting crimes.
As the sole prosecutor in a county comparable in size to New Jersey but with a population of around 8,000, Charas often manages numerous cases simultaneously, which he finds personally challenging.
Southern Oregon voters gearing up for the May 19 primary election must adhere to the state’s 21-day registration deadline, which falls on April 28.
This deadline is crucial for new residents registering to vote and for current voters wishing to change their political party affiliation. Oregon’s closed party primary system means that a voter’s registered party dictates the candidates they can choose on their primary ballot.
In this system, registered Democrats can only vote for Democratic candidates, while Republicans are limited to Republican candidates.
County Clerk Chris Walker clarified that non-affiliated voters or those from minor parties can only participate in nonpartisan races and measures during the primary, although they are not entirely excluded from the voting process.
Changing party affiliation before the April 28 deadline is a straightforward task; Oregon Representative Emily McIntire noted that the online process takes less than a minute. She advocates for this requirement, emphasizing that it fosters accountability within the electoral system.
John Watt, President and CEO of JWA Public Affairs, added that both major parties have maintained control over primary races for years and are reluctant to relinquish that power.
Chiloquin Visions in Progress Presents a Klamath County Candidates Forum
Community members are invited to attend the upcoming Candidates Forum for the May 2026 Primary Election, scheduled for Friday, April 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Chiloquin Community Center.
The forum will provide an opportunity for voters to hear directly from candidates running for Klamath County
Commissioner. This moderated event is designed to provide a fair and respectful setting in which candidates can share their perspectives, discuss key issues, and respond to questions
from the community.
The forum will be moderated by Christopher German, host of Coffee with the Candidates, who is a journalist and filmmaker here in Klamath County. He has interviewed many of the candidates running for office in this election, and as such, has a thorough understanding of the issues and challenges facing Klamath County residents.
Community members are encouraged to attend in person. An online viewing option will also be available for those unable to attend; register to view the online version at https://bit.ly/419iDGM.
In advance of the forum, residents are invited to submit questions for consideration by scanning the event QR code or visiting: https://forms.office.com/r/K4vQiuNvD2.
Candidate profiles are also available online to help voters learn more ahead of the event. To view candidate
information and additional details about the forum, visit: https://www.chiloquinvisions.com/election/.
“This forum is an important opportunity for our community to engage with candidates, learn about the issues, and
make informed decisions,” said Robert Cowie. “We encourage everyone to participate, whether in person or
online.”
For media inquiries, please contact: Robert Cowie, Executive Director. Robert@chiloquinvisions.com
Curt Dimmick, an experienced employee of the National Park Service, has been appointed as the new superintendent of Crater Lake National Park, effective May 17.
Dimmick, who previously served as the chief ranger at Crater Lake, takes over a position that has been temporarily filled since Kevin Heatley’s resignation in June 2024. With over 30 years of federal service, Dimmick currently oversees the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon and will continue in that role until a permanent replacement is found.
His extensive background includes various leadership positions within the NPS, such as group superintendent for the Missouri National Recreational River and Niobrara National Scenic River, acting superintendent at Great Basin National Park, and chief of resource management and visitor protection at Pinnacles National Park, among others.
Klamath Falls City Schools is proudly acknowledging its achievements in fostering stronger relationships, enhancing school culture, and promoting student success through the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program, receiving both statewide and national accolades.
The Klamath Learning Center has earned the prestigious title of National Showcase School from Capturing Kids’ Hearts, marking it as the first institution in Oregon to achieve this honor, which recognizes schools that have excelled in implementing CKH practices over multiple years.
Additionally, Conger Elementary School, Mills Elementary, and Pelican Elementary have been designated as Rising Star Campuses, a recognition given to schools that have shown outstanding implementation of CKH in their inaugural year.
These accolades highlight the collective efforts of the district’s staff, who, following comprehensive training in August, have diligently integrated CKH strategies into everyday practices across classrooms, offices, hallways, cafeterias, buses, and school grounds throughout the district.
Student teams are gearing up to ignite the grills for the Klamath County School District’s second annual Iron Chef: Battle of the Schools on May 1st.
This barbecue competition will be held in Linman Hall at the Klamath County Fairgrounds, starting at 8 a.m., with teams setting up their barbecue stations outdoors.
Participants will demonstrate their culinary talents by preparing beef short ribs for the main course and pork tenderloin for the appetizer, with both meats generously supplied by Diamond S. For the first time, the event will open its doors to the public, allowing attendees to purchase tickets at the entrance and indulge in a complete tasting experience featuring appetizers, entrées with two sides, and desserts—all crafted by the student chefs.
This Friday, April 24th, Grange Co-op will be giving away more than 1,400 free saplings across all of its retail locations — one per household, while supplies last. The giveaway kicks off at 11 a.m. and includes a beautiful selection of shade trees suited to our region.
Grange Co-op is offering a giveaway of over 1,400 free saplings companywide*. The event will take place on Arbor Day – Friday, April 24th, beginning at 11 a.m., at all Grange Co-op retail locations.
These free baby trees are always incredibly popular and tend to be claimed quickly, so community members are encouraged to join us right at the start of the event. Supplies are limited.
Visitors to any of the participating Grange Co-op locations will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of popular shade tree saplings suitable for our region’s climate, while supplies last. Available varieties may include Red & Japanese Maple, Ginkgo, Eastern Redbud, and Chinese Dogwood. Not all varieties may be available at all locations, and availability is subject to change.
Arbor Day has been celebrated for more than 150 years. At Grange Co-op, the day reflects the company’s commitment to stewardship and community.
By sharing free saplings with neighbors each year, Grange Co-op hopes to help grow greener spaces that future generations will enjoy. “Arbor Day is many people’s introduction to landscaping on a larger scale,” said Jordan Land, Youth & Community Outreach Coordinator for Grange Co-op. “Planting a tree is a simple act that can leave a legacy for decades. Watching a tree you plant grow alongside your family can be so endearing and fulfilling”
Abbey Road Brings Iconic Beatles Tribute Band to Klamath Falls, Wednesday, April 29th!
Experience the timeless sound of the world’s most legendary band when Abbey Road – Number Ones and More arrives at the Ross Ragland Theatre on Wednesday, the 29th at 7:00 pm.
This nationally celebrated Beatles tribute show promises an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and meticulously crafted performance.
From the moment the lights go down, audiences are transported across the Beatles’ evolution — from the early Ed Sullivan broadcasts to the technicolor dream of Sgt. Pepper and the introspective artistry of Abbey Road. With three full costume changes, authentic vintage instruments, and note-perfect renditions, Abbey Road recreates the Beatles’ most iconic eras with uncanny precision.
The setlist features a powerhouse collection of the Beatles’ biggest chart-toppers from both sides of the Atlantic — including classics like Hey Jude, Come Together, Can’t Buy Me Love, and Eleanor Rigby. Plus, die-hard fans will be delighted by a few unexpected deep cuts that rarely surface in tribute shows.
Having performed over 2,200 shows worldwide, Abbey Road has earned critical acclaim for its musical accuracy and captivating stage presence. The Los Angeles Times calls it “a show that delivers,” while the O.C. Register praises it as “smart and loads of fun.”
“Every night feels like a homecoming,” shares Chris Paul Overall, who steps into the shoes of Paul McCartney. “There’s an energy in the crowd — people singing, dancing, dressed up — it’s a full-on celebration of everything the Beatles stood for.”
This family-friendly performance is suitable for all ages and is expected to sell out quickly. Beatles fans, don’t miss your chance to relive the magic — one night only in Klamath Falls
Abbey Road- Tribute to the Beatles comes to the Ross Ragland Theatre on Wednesday, April 29 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $30- $45 and may be purchased by phone at 541.884.5483, at the Theatre Box Office or online at www.ragland.org. The show is appropriate for all ages.
This week’s pet ready for adoption at The Klamath Animal Shelter is a dog named ” Cheeky “
Cheeky is a 4 year old female Golden doodle, she is light blonde colored, and she weighs about 50 pounds.
They said that she is house trained, has lived with children as young as 1 year old, and another dog, she has never been around cats. 
Around the State of Oregon
Oregon’s school districts will no longer have the option to shorten the academic year as a means to reduce expenses, prevent layoffs, or address budget deficits, following a new directive from Governor Tina Kotek.
During the State Board of Education’s monthly meeting, Kotek proposed temporary regulations mandating that schools which have already reduced school days this year must restore them by the 2027-28 academic year.
Additionally, she urged the board to revise state guidelines on instructional time, prohibiting districts from decreasing instructional hours or counting teacher professional development and parent-teacher conferences as part of instructional time.
According to a recent analysis by ECONorthwest, commissioned by the advocacy group Stand for Children, Oregon has one of the shortest school years in the nation, and the state also faces high rates of chronic absenteeism among students, as highlighted by a recent study from the University of Oregon.
In late March, over 13,000 residents of Oregon lost their food assistance benefits due to the implementation of new federal work requirements, as reported by the Oregon Department of Human Services.
The federal legislation HR1 has broadened the work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), increasing the number of adults who must adhere to time limits. Individuals who fail to comply with these requirements and do not qualify for an exemption are limited to receiving SNAP benefits for only three months within a three-year timeframe.
However, those who lost their benefits can regain eligibility by fulfilling the work requirements, which typically involve completing approximately 80 hours of approved activities each month, such as paid employment, job searching, training programs, or volunteering.
If individuals meet the necessary hours for at least 30 days, they may become eligible for SNAP again. Additionally, individuals may regain access to SNAP if they qualify for an exemption based on their personal circumstances, which can include health issues, caregiving duties, or other life situations.
ODHS is encouraging people to reach out as soon as possible if they have questions about their benefits or work rules. Many people may not realize they can regain SNAP after benefits stop, or may not know the steps to take.
For full details about SNAP work rules, exemptions and how to report activities, visit:
- English: gov/snapworkrules
- Spanish: Oregon.gov/odhs/es/alimentos/Pages/limites-tiempo
People can also contact the ODHS ABAWD team:
- Call: 1-833-947-1694
- Email: ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov
For more information about SNAP benefits:
- Online: oregon.gov
- Call: 1-800-699-9075
The proprietor of a formerly well-known roadside animal park, which was subjected to a raid by authorities last year, has pleaded guilty to numerous charges related to animal neglect and drug possession.
Brian Tenney, who owned the West Coast Game Park Safari, was apprehended in May after law enforcement officials confiscated over 300 animals from the facility.
In addition to the animals, authorities discovered methamphetamine, cocaine, more than a million dollars in cash, and numerous firearms.
The investigation, initiated in October 2024 following a complaint from PETA and a USDA inspection, revealed serious issues at the park, including inadequately secured animal enclosures and the presence of deceased and severely malnourished animals.
Tenney is set to appear in court again on July 20 for sentencing.
Eugene Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking a Minor
EUGENE, Ore.— Anthony D’Montrez Crawford, 30, of Eugene, Oregon, pleaded guilty today to sex trafficking a minor.
According to court documents, Crawford began trafficking a 17-year old minor victim from July 2024 to August 2024 in Eugene and Springfield, Oregon. Crawford and his wife posted online commercial sex advertisements for the minor victim and coordinated sex acts through phone and text messages. Crawford also transported the minor victim to Seattle on two occasions to engage in prostitution.
On March 5, 2026, Crawford was charged by information with sex trafficking of a child.
Crawford faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Crawford will be sentenced on August 19, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Huynh is prosecuting the case.
If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.
This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
American Rivers, another liberal environmental nonprofit organization, has recently identified the Rogue River as the fifth most endangered river in the United States in its annual assessment of the nation’s most threatened waterways.
The organization highlights several significant threats to the Rogue, including logging, mining, and road construction.
Although the 2001 Roadless Rule has been instrumental in restricting road development and timber extraction in national forests, the USDA initiated efforts to repeal this rule last year, which could have detrimental consequences for Oregon’s forests and rivers.
The potential impacts of these activities include pollution of tributary streams, destruction of wildlife habitats, and an increased risk of wildfires.
The Rogue River is vital not only for its ecological significance, supporting one of the largest salmon runs in the country with approximately 100,000 salmon returning annually, but also as the primary source of drinking water for Grants Pass and various communities throughout the Rogue Valley.
Mushroom collection season now open on Klamath National Forest
(Yreka, CA, April 22, 2026) — The Klamath National Forest invites the public to enjoy mushroom collecting on the forest, where a variety of edible mushrooms — including morels, chanterelles, shaggy mane, puffballs, boletes and oyster mushrooms — can be found throughout Siskiyou County.
When mushroom collecting, make sure you know before you go. Some mushrooms can be dangerous. Never collect a mushroom you aren’t sure is safe.
Permits Required for Mushroom Collecting
You may collect up to one gallon of mushrooms per day for personal use without a permit, with a yearly limit of five gallons. To help protect forest resources and support sustainable harvesting, a permit is required for any commercial collecting or for personal collection exceeding the five-gallon annual limit.
$20 Permit: Collect up to 8 gallons over four consecutive days.
$50 Permit: Collect up to 20 gallons over 30 consecutive days; additional days may be purchased for $5 per day.
$100 Seasonal Permit: Collect up to 40 gallons during the season.
Permits are available at Forest Service offices in Yreka (1711 South Main Street), Happy Camp (63822 Highway 96), Macdoel (37805 Highway 97), and Fort Jones (11263 N. Highway 3). Please note that permits are now issued at the Supervisor’s Office in Yreka.
Each permit includes specific conditions and restrictions designed to promote responsible and sustainable harvesting. Permit holders are responsible for reviewing and complying with these guidelines.
For more information about mushroom harvesting, camping, or fire restrictions, contact your local ranger district or visit www.fs.usda.gov/r05/klamath/offices.
Columbia Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System (Nasdaq: COLB), today announced it has been recognized by Crisil Coalition Greenwich with two regional Best Bank Awards for excellence in middle market banking.
More than 500 banks worldwide were evaluated across small business and middle market categories, with only 47 banks receiving honors.
Crisil Coalition Greenwich recognized Columbia Bank in the following middle market banking categories for the U.S. West region:
- Best Bank – Satisfaction in Cash Management for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)
- Best Bank – Satisfaction with Relationship Manager for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)
Source: Coalition Greenwich Voice of Client – 2025 U.S. Commercial Banking Study
Best Bank Awards are based on extensive client feedback. The 2026 middle market recognitions draw from more than 11,000 interviews with U.S.-based businesses generating $10 million to $500 million in annual sales.
“Columbia Bank’s recognition by Crisil Coalition Greenwich as a 2026 Best Bank is especially meaningful since it’s the result of customer testimonials. It reflects the priority we place on supporting middle market companies, as well as the dedication and expertise our bankers bring to the table every day for our customers,” said Tory Nixon, Columbia Bank President. “It’s a privilege to support so many outstanding middle market enterprises across the West, and we will continue to earn their trust and confidence.”
Additional 2026 Accolades
The Coalition Greenwich awards add to a growing list of honors Columbia Bank has received this year, including:
- Forbes: America’s Best Banks
- Global Finance: Best Bank for Small and Midsize Enterprises, West
- Global Finance: Best Trade Finance Partner, West
About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is the largest bank headquartered in the Northwest and one of the largest banks headquartered in the West with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. Columbia Bank combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service
SALEM, Oregon — The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the Oregon Arts Commission, is proud to relaunch Art in the Governor’s Office. This program brings the works of some of Oregon’s most distinguished artists to the state Capitol to be displayed in the Governor’s Gallery (formerly the Reception Room).
This longstanding tradition, which began in 1975 and celebrates the diverse creativity of Oregon’s professional visual artists, returns this year after a pause due to the pandemic and the restoration of the Capitol building. It will feature a series of three exhibitions of renowned practitioners of photography and painting.
The 2026 series begins with an exhibition by Harrison Branch, an accomplished photographer and Oregon State University Professor Emeritus. Branch’s “Palladotypes: Unpublished Images” will be on display April 24 through July 16.
“With construction nearly completed, it’s so meaningful to be back in the Capitol – and restart the sharing of art in the Governor’s Office,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “Oregonian artist Marie Watt so perfectly described the importance of art: ‘Art is a living, breathing part of our community. Art belongs to everyone, and it has the power to transform the way we see each other and ourselves.’ I encourage everyone who visits or works in the Capitol to stop by the Governor’s Office to view these beautiful pieces of art and photography.”
Featured Artist: Harrison Branch
Born in New York City and educated at the San Francisco Art Institute and Yale University, Harrison Branch has spent more than four decades at the forefront of photographic education and artistry. Joining Oregon State University faculty in 1972, Branch was instrumental in developing the university’s photography program.
Branch, who lives in Corvallis, is celebrated for his technical expertise with bellows cameras—large, intricate instruments that allow for extreme precision. His work deeply explores the “natural environment,” specifically focusing on the tonal relationships between silver and the superior platinum-palladium printing process.
“In the age of digital photography,” Branch said, “I prefer the traditional methods, which could also be called classical. To me this hands-on method brings the most joy and excitement. Watching an image materialize in the developing tray is still magical.”
His photographs, which often feature undeveloped natural areas, have been exhibited internationally, including at the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris and the George Eastman House.
Upcoming 2026 Exhibitions
Following the exhibition by Harrison Branch, the Governor’s Office will host two additional prominent Oregon artists:
Erik Sandgren (July 17 – Oct. 8): Sandgren’s work probes the figured landscape through the lenses of myth and history. He works in many media. His large-scale murals, paintings and prints are in private and public collections as diverse as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery.
Nancy Watterson Scharf (Oct. 9 – Dec. 31): Scharf is based in the Southern Oregon coast range, and her acrylic paintings provide a “voice for nature,” investigating the complex relationship between humans, animals and the ecosystems they share.
Public Access
The Governor’s Gallery is viewable most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitation information is available at 503-986-1388.
Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged at 5.2% in February
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in both February and January. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.4% in February and 4.3% in January.
In February, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 5,400 jobs, following a gain of 1,600 jobs, as revised, in January. February’s gains were largest in financial activities (+800 jobs). Losses were largest in transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-1,600 jobs); leisure and hospitality (-1,500); and professional and business services (-1,300).
Financial activities added 800 jobs in February, which was a rare monthly gain for the industry after persistent declines over the past three years. It employed 99,800 in February, which was down 1,100 jobs, or -1.1%, since February 2025.
Transportation, warehousing, and utilities employment was choppy in recent months, cutting 1,600 jobs in February following a gain of 1,500 in January. It employed 78,400 in February, which was 400 jobs, or 0.5%, above its year-ago level and close to its average employment throughout much of the past five years.
Leisure and hospitality cut 1,500 jobs in February following a gain of 1,200 in January. During the prior three years, it was remarkably steady, averaging just over 207,000 jobs.
Professional and business services continued its downtrend of the past three years, cutting 1,300 jobs in February and another 2,000 jobs in January. In the most recent 12 months, it cut 8,700 jobs, or 3.4%. Since February 2025, each of its three component industries contracted by more than 2%: administrative and waste services (-4,200 jobs, or -4.3%); professional and technical services (-3,200 jobs, or -2.9%); and management of companies and enterprises (-1,300 jobs, or -2.7%).
Two Dead in Reedsport House Fire; Suspect Arrested for Murder
REEDSPORT, Ore. – A Reedsport woman is in custody on murder charges following a residential house fire Thursday night.
On Thursday, April 16, 2026, shortly before 11:00 p.m., Douglas County 911 received a report of a structure fire in the 27000‑block of Lower Smith River Road. Callers reported individuals were unaccounted for and possibly still inside the residence.
Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene. Upon arrival, deputies attempted rescue and located one individual who was pulled from the house. Despite lifesaving efforts, the 65‑year‑old victim was pronounced deceased. A second victim, aged 67, was also located inside and declared deceased. A third individual was able to escape the residence and was uninjured. Identification of the victims is being withheld pending next‑of‑kin notification.
Deputies contacted a female at the scene, identified as 41‑year‑old Pamela Anne Westfall of Reedsport, who was detained. Westfall admitted to intentionally starting the fire inside the residence. Early indications suggest the fire began following a disturbance.
Westfall was arrested and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:
• Murder in the First Degree (2 counts)
• Attempted Murder
• Arson in the First Degree
• Warrant Arrest
The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is continuing to investigate the incident. The Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative agency. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, and Oregon State Police, working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.
Additional assistance was provided by the Winchester Bay Fire Department, Reedsport Fire Department, Gardiner Fire Department, Oregon State Police Arson Investigation, Oregon State Police Crime Laboratory, Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Reedsport Police Department.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Juan Serratos Named director of Paid Leave Oregon
SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has named Juan Serratos as the new Director of Paid Leave Oregon. Serratos has served as acting director of Paid Leave since July 2025 and has been part of the program’s leadership team since 2022. He has played an integral role in helping Paid Leave become a reliable source of support for workers and families across Oregon and a model for paid family and medical leave programs nationwide.
“Juan has a unique skill set and proven experience building and leading one of Oregon’s most important public service programs,” said Oregon Employment Department Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “He brings deep operational knowledge, strong leadership, and a commitment to serving Oregonians. Paid Leave Oregon is in good hands under Juan’s leadership.”
Serratos joined Paid Leave Oregon in January 2022 as deputy director after leading the Unemployment Insurance Benefits Services section beginning in 2019. He brings more than 17 years of public service experience, including work at Human Solutions, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and the Oregon Department of Justice. At OED, he helped rapidly build up the Benefits Services team during the pandemic response and has been a key leader in building Paid Leave Oregon from the ground up.
Since launching benefits in 2023, the program has become an essential part of Oregon’s support system for workers and families across the state. In 2025, the program served 103,000 people and their families and paid out more than $783 million in benefits.
“I’m proud of what this team has built,” said Serratos. “We’ve created a program that Oregonians can count on during some of the most important moments in their lives. I’m honored to continue leading this work as we strengthen customer service, keep the program running well, and make sure it remains sustainable and dependable for the people who rely on it.”
Paid Leave Oregon provides benefits to workers who need time away from work for some of life’s most important and difficult moments. The program supports employees who need to care for themselves or a family member with a serious medical condition, bond with a new child after birth, adoption, or foster placement, or take safe leave related to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment.
Through partial wage replacement, Paid Leave Oregon helps workers take needed time off without losing all of their income, and it helps employers retain experienced employees who might otherwise be forced to leave the workforce. Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of benefits per year, helping reduce the pressure to choose between a paycheck, a job, and caring for themselves or their families. Learn more at paidleave.oregon.gov.
Safe Digging Month Reminds Oregonians to Contact 811 Before Digging
SALEM, Ore. – In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), and Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) remind Oregonians to contact 811 before starting projects that involves digging.
Whether a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, all play an important role in preventing damage to underground utilities. Contacting Oregon 811 before you dig helps prevent serious injuries and avoid costly damage to essential utility services. There are three easy steps to safe digging in Oregon:
- Submit a locate request at least two business days before digging at Oregon811.com or by calling 811
- Wait for utility crews to mark the underground lines
- Dig carefully
After a locate request is submitted, the OUNC notifies the utility companies that provide service to the area. Utility crews then visit the site and mark the approximate location of the underground lines, pipes, and cables able to be located, at no cost to the homeowner or contractor.
Meanwhile, employers must follow Oregon OSHA requirements to protect workers against the potential hazards of underground utilities. Those requirements include:
- Notifying OUNC of the proposed area of excavations at least two working days before starting an excavation.
- Estimating the location of utilities before opening or extending an excavation.
- Determining by safe and acceptable means the exact location of the estimated utility installations when excavation activities approach them.
- While excavations are open, underground installations must be protected, supported, or removed as necessary to safeguard employees.
Oregon OSHA offers employers free consultations – no fault, no citations, no penalties – to improve workplace health and safety programs and practices. It also offers free technical help with understanding and applying workplace safety rules.
Most utility line strikes happen during the warmer months, when construction and landscaping activity increases. National data shows that in 2024, an estimated 196,977 instances of damage occurred across the country, and 17 percent were caused by failing to contact 811.
For more information or to submit a locate request, visit Oregon811.com or call 811.
Oregonians have a wide array of choices when it comes to license plates. Options range from elephant-themed plates to those featuring the Ducks or Beavers, as well as designs showcasing bees and Smokey Bear.
Each of these unique plates comes with an additional fee, with proceeds supporting various causes such as zoos, colleges, and forest conservation.
Now, for the first time, golf enthusiasts in Oregon will have the opportunity to express their passion through a dedicated license plate. This new design will be available for order from the Department of Motor Vehicles starting Tuesday, April 28.
EARTH WEEK things to think about…
The forest needs a hand
Michael McCool, Office of Communications
April 21, 2026
In forests across the United States, recovery often begins with something small.
A seed.
Over time, forests grow, adapt and renew themselves through cycles shaped by fire, weather and insects. But in some cases, forests can be pushed beyond their ability to recover quickly on their own.
That is where management begins.
Inside one cold-storage facility at the Lucky Peak Nursery in Idaho, thousands of young trees sit in carefully organized boxes, waiting for the right conditions to be planted. Each one is a carefully grown product, representing months of planning and coordination between state and federal partners.
The work done at this Forest Service facility is just one example of similar, intentional planning underway in forests across the country, where partners are working together to reduce risk and improve forest conditions across the landscape.
Thousands of seedlings are stored in cold conditions at a Forest Service nursery in Idaho. These trees support coordinated forest management efforts across the country.
Where it begins
Wildfire remains one of the most visible forces shaping forest landscapes.
In the Boise National Forest, burned trees from a recent, devastating fire stand black and barren — charred remains of their former glory. They must be harvested quickly before they lose their value as lumber. Although wildfire can be part of a natural cycle, if left alone, these standing dead trees can pose safety risks to visitors and nearby communities.
A burned section of forest in Idaho shows the aftermath of wildfire. While fire can play a natural role, severe events can leave behind hazardous conditions that require active management.
The fire that raged across this forest is just one of many forces that can affect the health of a forest. Managing those risks requires coordination across boundaries that are invisible to the fire itself. In situations like this — and even before disaster strikes — the Forest Service works hand in hand with state and local partners.
For Dustin Miller, director of the Idaho Department of Lands, that cooperation is essential.
“About 95% of our acres border either the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management,” Miller said. “So, the relationship with the federal agencies matters.”
When the forest needs help
Across the region, that cooperation is formalized through an approach known as shared stewardship.
The model emphasizes collaboration between federal, state and local entities to identify risks, plan projects and carry out work more efficiently.
“Shared stewardship was an initiative rolled out by the Forest Service,” said Brian Davis, South Idaho shared stewardship coordinator. “It’s realizing that we need to do a better job and be a better partner with our neighbors.”
Much of that work focuses on reducing hazardous fuels — dense underbrush and unhealthy trees that can intensify wildfires and increase risk to nearby communities.
Thinning operations and the removal of unhealthy trees help reduce the amount of fuel on the landscape, lowering the potential for fires to grow more severe.
Jamie Barnes, director of the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, said the approach has evolved beyond an idea into measurable work on the ground. That work does not stop at ownership boundaries.
“Not just state land… not just local land… but also federal land — working across all jurisdictions of the landscape,” Barnes said.
Forest crews working across jurisdictional boundaries to reduce hazardous fuels, mark dead trees for removal. Shared stewardship allows coordinated planning and implementation across multiple partners.
Working together on the ground
In practice, shared stewardship allows partners to divide responsibilities based on capacity and expertise.
The Forest Service often leads planning and environmental analysis, while state partners assist with implementation, including timber removal and fuels reduction.
When timber is removed as part of these projects, it can help support additional restoration work, including site preparation and future planting efforts.
That work also plays a role in supporting local economies and sustaining forestry operations in rural communities. In addition, removing extra timber can help reduce wildfire risk.
In Montana, Gov. Greg Gianforte emphasized the importance of reducing that risk through active management.
“Our forests are choked with dead and dying timber — a tinderbox ready to burn,” Gianforte said. “By reducing those fuel loads, we’re significantly reducing wildfire risk.”
For those working on the ground, the partnerships built through shared stewardship often become second nature.
“We don’t really even realize we’re working with a different agency,” Barnes said. “We work so well together… we spend more time with our partners than we do with our own families.”
Contactors use logging machinery to clear a dead trees from the forest. Removing hazardous fuels helps reduce wildfire risk while supporting forest management efforts. Timber from these projects can also contribute to local economies.
The next forest
Restoration does not end with clearing damaged trees.
It begins again with planting.
At facilities like the Lucky Peak Nursery in Idaho, millions of seedlings are grown each year, carefully matched to the conditions where they will be planted.
“So, every year we grow millions of trees,” said Sara Wilson, nursery manager. “The purpose for those trees is to go out into the woods… and grow into nice big healthy trees for the future.”
Thousands of seedlings are stored in cold conditions at a Forest Service nursery in Idaho. These trees support coordinated forest management efforts across the country. (Forest Service photo by Michael McCool)
Those seedlings are prepared for specific elevations, soil types and climates, helping ensure the next generation of forest is well suited to the landscape.
The work extends across landscapes that do not follow property lines.
“Shared stewardship really gives us an opportunity for everybody that owns the forest,” Idaho Gov. Brad Little said. “Because the bugs, the fires — nobody knows where the lines are on the map.”
The results of these coordinated efforts are already visible across the landscape.
“We’ve been increasing capacity… we’ve been doing interagency work across the landscape… and we’ve been protecting watersheds,” Barnes said.
Shared stewardship brings federal, state and local partners into the same effort — coordinating work across boundaries to improve forest conditions and reduce risk.
Forests do not grow by accident.
They are shaped by planning, management and cooperation.
And with the right care, the cycle continues.
Learn more about our Shared Stewardship program.
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