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.
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Red Flag Warning in effect until Saturday, June 20 at 01:00AM
Today
A 35% chance of rain and thunderstorms this afternoon, high near 80 degrees. Overnight a chance of rain, low near 55. Chance of overnight precipitation is 30%.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Grand opening of Mountainview Townhomes Affordable Housing Takes Place on June 23rd
Stewardship Development, Klamath Housing Authority (KHA), and Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) are partnering to celebrate a new 100% affordable housing development in Klamath Falls. The grand opening of Mountainview Townhomes takes place at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23. All 72 of the new development’s homes are at affordable rates.
“The opening of Mountainview Townhomes represents an important milestone for our community,” stated KHA Development Director Diana Otero. “It not only provides safe, stable homes for families but also creates opportunities for hope, connection, and a stronger sense of belonging. This development reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all residents. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to the positive difference it will make in the lives of individuals and families for years to come.”
Mountainview Townhomes received 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, as well as Oregon Affordable Housing Tax Credits, and Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) funds from OHCS. National Equity Fund (NEF) is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) syndicator. Construction lending is provided by US Bank; permanent financing is through Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH). Oregon Department of Energy provided an energy grant to assist with the installation of solar panels, and Cascade Health Alliance also provided a grant to fund this development. Additionally, Mountainview Townhomes received eight project-based vouchers to serve very low-income families and individuals.
“Rural Oregon is vital to our state’s past, present, and future,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “There is so much more at stake here than just investments in housing. It is an investment in making everyday life better, made possible by locally led, community-driven visions. As the world and economy change, we need to meet the urgency that this moment requires. The leaders who made Mountainview Townhomes possible are showing how it’s done.”
The complex features 12 residential buildings offering a mix of one- and two-story townhomes with one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans. The development also includes a dedicated community building that provides a gathering space for residents, as well as an outdoor sports field and playground, a fenced dog run, and a community garden. Each home is equipped with energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, and residents have access to onsite parking.
Event Details
When: 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 23
Where: 5582 Kennebeck Loop, Klamath Falls, OR 97603
The ceremony will take place at Mountainview Townhomes in the courtyard behind the Community Building.
About Klamath Housing Authority
Klamath Housing Authority (KHA) was established in 1976 as a local government entity created by Oregon State Statute 456. KHA serves over 1300 families and individuals in Klamath and Lake counties in Oregon. KHA’s Mission: To provide low-income individuals in Klamath and Lake counties with the opportunity to obtain affordable housing and achieve self-sufficiency. For additional information please visit: klamathhousing.org
Fatal Accident, Highway 39
On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11:21 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 39 near milepost 2 in Klamath County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a white Kia Sedona, operated by Fatima Abrica Torres (38) of Merrill, was traveling southbound on Highway 39 near the intersection of Highway 140 when it was struck by a silver Chrysler PT Cruiser, operated by Lenayah Priscilla King (71) of Bonanza, who was attempting to make a left-hand turn onto Highway 39 to travel northbound. The Chrysler stopped at the stop sign; however, it failed to yield the right of way to southbound traffic. The operator of the Chrysler (King) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Kia (Torres) and two juvenile passengers were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately 30 minutes during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by Klamath County Fire District #1 and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Klamath County Fire District 1
Board of Directors Regular Meeting Agenda
4:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Central Fire Station
143 N. Broad Street
Klamath Falls, OR 97601
Virtual Attendance Information:
Please register to join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by contacting our administrative office at 541-885-2056 by Monday, June 22, 2026.
On the agenda is the budget for fiscal year 2026-2027, financial reports, station #1 construction update, SDAO Organizational
Assessment Plan Presentation, new business, appointment of budget committee members and Pacific Northwest Hydro Equipment Testing contracts.
Oregon Tech’s geomatics program has received the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Education Award, recognizing the program’s success in preparing students for professional careers in surveying and geospatial sciences.
The award honors academic programs that support NCEES’ mission of advancing professional licensure and protecting public health, safety, and welfare. Oregon Tech was one of only six institutions nationwide selected for the honor, receiving grant funding as part of the award program.
Oregon Tech’s geomatics program trains students to become land surveyors and geospatial professionals through hands-on experience with advanced mapping technologies and equipment. Graduates develop skills in property boundary determination, subdivision design, mapping, deed preparation, and other essential surveying practices.
The Oregon Health Authority is urging residents to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves, their families, and their communities against heat-related illnesses.
These conditions can arise rapidly and may pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older adults, infants, young children, outdoor workers, individuals experiencing homelessness, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health issues.
Extreme heat represents one of the most significant weather-related threats in Oregon, as a sudden increase in temperatures can lead to more severe health consequences when the body lacks the opportunity to acclimate. Fortunately, the majority of heat-related illnesses and fatalities can be avoided through awareness of the risks, recognition of warning signs, and implementation of strategies to remain cool.
Residents can access information regarding local cooling centers, shelters, and additional community resources by reaching out to 211info or visiting the dedicated webpage for Oregon’s cooling centers.
Join the Bly Resource Fair on July 1, 2026
at the Bread Wagon Parking Lot in Bly, Oregon!
It’s open to everyone.
10AM-1PM, Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Bread Wagon Parking Lot
Bly, Oregon 61435 OR-140
Connect with the community resources you need.
This event is put on Klamath County Health Department
Ragland Arts Festival, Saturday, June 20th
It’s the first Ragland Arts Festival from 10AM-2PM.
There will be vendors, art, music, food, and so much community fun. Join us in the Cultural Center for a day of fun, sunshine, and last minute shopping for Father’s Day.
This event is free to the public, but donations will be accepted. All proceeds from this event go to our Education Scholarship Fund. The Education Scholarship Fund helps ensure that no one is denied the opportunity to attend one of our camps or classes due to financial restraints. TICKETS: FREE. Donations are accepted.
Events Happening Soon
5th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival Returns June 19-20 in Chiloquin!
The City of Chiloquin invites residents and visitors alike to attend the 5th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival on Friday, June 19, and Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds. Free Family Fun, Live Music, Chili Cook-Off, Vendors, and More.
KRUISE OF KLAMATH is coming… June 25-28, 2026
Shine up your Merc, detail your Deuce Coupe and hustle your hotrod to the Kruise of Klamath for a celebration of classic cars!
This four-day blast from the past is filled with music, food and beautiful cars from the “good ‘ol days”. At the Kruise of Klamath the cars are “cherry,” the cruisin is “boss” and the atmosphere is “too cool!”
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SCHEDULE
KLAMATH COUNTY HEALTH FAIR IN BLY, OREGON, JULY 1st
In partnership with the Bly Community Action Team, The Klamath County Health Department will be hosting a Health Fair on July 1st from 10a-1pm in the parking lot next to the Bread Wagon. Enjoy a senior lunch and bring the family. Hope to see you there to learn more on keeping your health as best it can be.
This week’s pet available for adoption from the Klamath Animal Shelter is a dog named ” Kingston “
Around the State of Oregon
Governor Tina Kotek has announced a state of emergency in response to the looming threat of wildfires.
This order will remain in effect until the danger is substantially mitigated, the fire season concludes, or until December 31, 2026. The declaration facilitates the mobilization of firefighting crews, aerial support, ground resources, and emergency personnel to safeguard individuals, property, and natural environments.
The governor has urged all residents of Oregon to remain vigilant and adhere to the instructions and evacuation levels provided by emergency officials. She also recommended that citizens subscribe to emergency alerts via ORAlert.gov, develop an evacuation plan, prepare a go-kit, and stay informed about evolving conditions.
With record-low snowpack levels and nearly half of the state’s counties experiencing ongoing drought, it is crucial to note that approximately 70% of wildfires in Oregon are attributed to human activity, as highlighted by Kotek.
As Congress deliberates on legislation to address AI-generated deepfakes, broadcasters nationwide, including those in Oregon, are advocating for the advancement of the NO FAKES Act.
They contend that this legislation is essential for safeguarding the identities and likenesses of reputable local figures from unauthorized digital reproductions.
In a recent letter to congressional leaders, state broadcasters associations from all 50 states, along with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, expressed their support for the bill. They emphasize that, in light of the swift growth of generative AI, the proposed legislation would establish crucial regulations while still allowing for legitimate uses of the technology.
The NO FAKES Act (H.R.8915/S.4591) aims to establish a federal right that protects individuals from unauthorized AI-generated representations of their voice or appearance, while also maintaining exemptions for certain activities protected under the First Amendment. Proponents of the bill assert that it effectively balances the need to protect personal identity rights with the necessity of fostering continued innovation in AI.
This proposed legislation has gained significant attention as one of the leading AI initiatives in Congress, receiving support from a diverse coalition that includes entertainment companies, creators, labor organizations, and technology firms.
Task Force Busts Black-Market Marijuana Grow Hidden in Pear Orchard, Uncovers 25K Plants, 16K Lbs. Cannabis; Suspect Arrested
CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant Tuesday, June 16 at a black-market cannabis grow in the 1000 block of Old Stage Road in rural Central Point.
IMET detectives seized approximately 25,000 marijuana plants hidden in pear orchards, 16,000 lbs. of usable cannabis, and 1,470 plants in five “hoop-style” greenhouses.
IMET arrested one suspect in connection to the property. The suspect, Jorge Alexander Ruiz, 35, of Central Point, is charged with three felony counts of unlawful production, manufacture, and possession of a marijuana item.
There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at this location. The farm applied for an Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) license for growing hemp while concealing cannabis starter plants in the pear orchard. IMET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Basin Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (BINET), and Oregon State Police (OSP).
While regulatory agencies investigate permitted cannabis operations, IMET is focusing on the black-market marijuana trade in the Rogue Valley. IMET is a multi-agency task force funded by a grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The task force includes personnel from JCSO, OSP, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
Senior Member of the Hoover Gang Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearms
A Gresham, Oregon, man was sentenced to over eight years in federal prison yesterday for illegally possessing firearms as a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.
Shakor Shovontae Ray Holiday, 32, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.
“The unlawful possession of firearms fuels gun violence and puts communities at risk. This case sends a clear message that those who choose to illegally possess and flaunt firearms—whether online or in our neighborhoods—will face federal prosecution,” said the U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “We will continue to combat gun violence, prosecute offenders, and safeguard communities across Oregon.”
“This sentencing is an example of the FBI’s commitment to working with our partners to make our communities safer,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue felons in possession of firearms.”
“Homeland Security Investigations is focused on making our communities safer, and helping take a felon off the streets for possessing firearms illegally is one of the ways we do that,” said Acting Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Working with our federal, state and local partners, we will do everything we can to make our streets more secure.”
According to court documents, on May 31, 2023, Holiday, a senior member of the Hoover Gang who goes by “Dute Fly,” posted a video of himself holding an AR rifle on social media. On June 2, 2023, Holiday posted another video on social media with the same firearm. Pursuant to a search warrant at Holiday’s residence, investigators found two firearms, one being the AR rifle used in his social media posts. The other firearm was connected to a shooting in Beaverton, Oregon, on June 21, 2023, the night before investigators executed the search warrant, although there was not enough conclusive evidence to identify Holiday as the shooter.
On July 13, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Holiday with one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Holiday pleaded guilty on January 13, 2026.
The FBI, HSI, the Portland Police Bureau, and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case with valuable assistance provided by the Gresham Police Department. U.S. Attorneys Lewis Burkhart and Leah Bolstad prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN
OHA urges Oregonians to prepare for summer health, safety risks
With summer officially beginning June 21, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is encouraging people across the state to take simple steps to protect themselves from seasonal hazards that can lead to illness, injury and preventable deaths.
“Summer in Oregon offers countless opportunities to spend time outdoors with family and friends, but it’s important to recognize the health and safety risks that can come with warmer weather,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Whether you’re swimming, hiking, camping, boating or attending outdoor events, a few preventive measures can help keep you safe and healthy all season long.”
OHA recommends the following steps to reduce summer health risks:
Water safety and drowning prevention
- Learn to swim and teach children to swim. Swimming lessons reduce drowning risk.
- Fence home pools. Use a four-sided fence at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates and remove toys from the pool when not in use.
- Wear a life jacket. Use U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets in natural water and for weaker swimmers in pools.
- Avoid alcohol. Never drink before or during swimming, boating, or supervising children.
- Know CPR. Learn basic life-saving skills; many organizations offer free courses.
- Be aware of natural water hazards. Currents, waves, rocks, and poor visibility can be deadly.
- Check weather conditions. Avoid swimming during or after thunderstorms.
- Use the buddy system. In open water, have someone watch you and each other.
- If someone is drowning. Reach or throw, don’t go in; you could become a victim.
Extreme heat
- Seek air-conditioned spaces, if available, when temperatures rise.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, especially when working or recreating outdoors.
- Use cool showers, misting and cold compresses to lower body temperature.
- Limit strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
- Never leave children, older adults or pets in parked vehicles.
- Check in on older neighbors or family members who don’t have air conditioning.
- Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke at gov/heatsafety.
Sun protection
- Limit direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and reapply every two hours.
- Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Take breaks in shaded areas whenever possible.
Wildfire smoke
- Monitor local air quality conditions and limit outdoor activity when smoke levels are elevated.
- Create a cleaner air space at home using air filtration or a do-it-yourself box fan filter system.
- Install a MERV-13 or higher-rated filter in central air systems when possible.
- Keep windows and doors closed during smoky conditions.
- Follow medical advice if you have asthma, heart disease or other respiratory conditions.
- Visit org(OregonHumo.org in Spanish) to find the current air quality and health information.
- Review the Oregon Air Quality Activity Guide for Children and Youthfor advice when planning all outdoor activities, including recess, child care outdoor play, sports events, camps, and field trips.
Mosquitoes and ticks
Mosquitoes and ticks can spread diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease. To reduce risk:
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents.
- Wear long sleeves, long pants and closed-toe shoes in areas where insects are common.
- Remove standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
- Check yourself, children, pets and gear for ticks after spending time outdoors.
Cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms
Avoid contact with reservoir, lake or river water that appears:
- Bright green, blue-green, brownish-red or paint-like.
- Foamy, scummy or unusually thick.
- Containing floating mats of algae material.
- Avoid contact with mats of cyanobacteria that are attached to rocks, sand, or aquatic plants.
- Keep children and pets away from affected water and shorelines.
- Enjoy activities that have low risk of swallowing water or inhaling spray in and around bodies of water.
- Check for advisories for specific water bodies.
- Sign up for email and text alerts and learn more at: http://healthoregon.org/hab.
Beach water advisories for harmful bacteria
- Check for advisoriesbefore you head to the beach.
- If a beach is under advisory:
- Avoid swimming and swallowing ocean water.
- Avoid swimming in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria can be higher in these water sources.
- Shower after playing at the beach.
- Wash your hands before eating or drinking.
- Enjoy activities such as picnicking, beach walking and kite flying.
- Even if no advisory is in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.
- Learn more and sign up for email and text updates about beach advisories at http://healthoregon.org/beach
Food safety
Warm temperatures can increase the risk of foodborne illness. Remember the four key food safety steps:
- Clean:Wash hands, surfaces and produce thoroughly.
- Separate:Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs separate from ready-to-eat foods.
- Cook:Use a food thermometer to ensure foods reach safe internal temperatures.
- Chill:Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours.
All Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate.
“Looking at the current conditions and projections for the summer, ODF is prepared to have another busy fire season,” said Michael Curran, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Protection Division Chief. “Oregonians need to be practicing wildfire prevention and emergency preparedness NOW.”
Now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:
- Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
- Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat.
- Forests and fireworks don’t mix. Private use of fireworks is not allowed on forest land, which includes all private lands protected by ODF and all other state and federal forest lands in Oregon. Remember to check any additional city and county firework restrictions as well.
- Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
- Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
- Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.
Curran said, “Prevention is our number one tool to reduce property loss, firefighting costs, and risk to the lives of our firefighters. We can’t prevent lightning fires, but we can prevent human-caused fires.”
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. Fire season is declared at the local level when conditions reach a point where the risk of a fire starting and spreading becomes clear. This year, the Central Oregon district was the first to declare on May 8, and the Northwest Oregon Area was the last to declare on June 15.
For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org.
In anticipation of elevated temperatures we’re experiencing in Southern Oregon, Pacific Power is advising its customers to prepare for the heat and to reduce their electricity consumption.
The summer months typically see the highest electricity usage, prompting the company to encourage customers to adopt energy-saving measures and utilize available incentives for enhancing home energy efficiency, as noted by Mansfield.
To effectively manage peak demand during warmer periods, Pacific Power employs a varied portfolio of energy resources, ensuring they are equipped to meet customer requirements. The company actively monitors substations and circuits that experience the highest usage on a daily basis during hot weather, promptly addressing any issues that arise to maintain reliable electric service for its customers.
America250 Announces 2026 America’s Field Trip Awardees; Two Oregon Students Selected for Inspiring Answers to the Question, “What Does America Mean to You?”
The America 250 Oregon Commission, together with America250, the official national organization charged by Congress with commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, today proudly announced the 2026 “America’s Field Trip” awardees, which includes two students from Oregon. America’s Field Trip is a nationwide contest inviting students in grades 3–12 to reflect on the question: “What does America mean to you?”
The winners from Oregon include first place awardee Amy Elliot, a 12th grader from Evergreen Virtual Academy in Portland, and Macy Kragt, a 10th grader from Baker Charter Schools in Hillsboro. For a full list of awardees and a selection of winning submissions, please visit america250.org/fieldtrip/awardees.
America’s Field Trip has been building momentum over three contest years as one of America250’s signature education programs, advancing the organization’s mission to educate, engage, and unite Americans in the lead-up to the 250th anniversary. Since its 2024 pilot program, the nationwide student contest has received more than 20,000 entries, including more than 10,000 submissions this year alone. With this year’s class, America250 will have recognized 550 young people total through America’s Field Trip, including 275 first-place winners receiving once-in-a-lifetime trips and 275 second-place winners receiving cash prizes.
The 2026 entrants represented all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and Washington, D.C. A panel of current and former educators selected the 2026 honorees, the largest class of awardees yet: 250 students representing 46 states and U.S. territories. This includes 125 first-place awardees (41 elementary school students, 42 middle school students and 42 high school students) who will travel on one of 16 once-in-a-lifetime field trip experiences this summer. An additional 125 second-place awardees (42 elementary school students, 42 middle school students and 41 high school students) will receive a $500 cash award and America250 gear.
“The America 250 Oregon Commission congratulates Amy E., Macy K., and all of this year’s America’s Field Trip participants,” said Kerry Tymchuk, chair of the America 250 Oregon Commission. “Their words inspire us and reflect the next generation’s hope for America’s future.”
Each first-place awardees will participate in one of the specially-curated trips taking place across 12 states and Washington, D.C., July 10–August 16, 2026. Amy E. selected Philadelphia as the destination for her field trip, where she will experience a beyond the ropes tour of Independence National Historical Park and the Philadelphia Mint.
“America’s Field Trip gives students a national platform to reflect on our country in their own words, through their own creativity and from the communities they call home,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “As we prepare to commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, these students remind us that America’s story is something each generation helps shape. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and give first-place awardees the chance to experience the people, places and ideas that have helped define our country.”
About the America 250 Oregon Commission
The mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial.
If you or your organization is interested in getting involved with the America 250 Oregon commemoration, please contact oregon.250@ohs.org or sign up for the official America 250 Oregon email list. Learn more at oregon250.org.
The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.
As summer begins for many local teenagers, we enter a period known as the Deadliest 100 Days.
Statistics from AAA indicate that the time frame between Memorial Day and Labor Day is particularly hazardous for teen drivers, with nearly 39% of crashes involving this demographic occurring during these months in Oregon from 2015 to 2024.
While cell phone use is a prevalent cause of driver distraction, other significant factors contributing to these accidents include speeding, impaired driving, and general inattentiveness.
AAA advises parents to engage in conversations with their teen drivers about these risks to promote safer driving habits.
Oregon is included in a settlement amounting to nearly five million dollars with GS Labs, a COVID-19 testing company accused of overcharging for tests.
The company allegedly inflated the cash price to $380 per test and imposed high fees on approximately 30,000 customers who paid in cash. Additionally, GS Labs failed to meet its promised three-day turnaround for test results and charged a $49 fee despite previously assuring customers of no out-of-pocket expenses.
As part of the settlement, Oregon is set to receive nearly $143,000. Further details on how to apply for the settlement can be found on the GS Labs Testing website.
Oregon is facing a persistent issue regarding vaccinations.
An increasing number of parents in the state are choosing to exempt their children from mandatory school vaccinations, resulting in exemption rates reaching unprecedented levels.
This trend raises alarms about Oregon’s susceptibility to outbreaks of diseases that have been largely controlled by vaccines for many years. In the 2025-26 school year, 11% of kindergarteners in Oregon lacked at least one required immunization due to nonmedical exemptions based on personal or religious beliefs, marking the highest rate observed in the state in over four decades.
The Oregon Lottery is showcasing the state’s natural beauty through its new “Discover Oregon State Parks” Scratch-it ticket.
This ticket, available in three distinct colors, features a clean and minimalist design that captures the geographic diversity found within Oregon’s state parks. Designed by the Oregon Lottery team to resonate with outdoor enthusiasts, these $5 tickets include icons representing various landmarks and wildlife, with a top prize of $40,000.
They can be purchased at Lottery retailers throughout the state. The proceeds from lottery game play contribute significantly to the maintenance and enhancement of state parks, with over $1 billion allocated to Oregon State Parks since 1999. This initiative marks the fifth consecutive year that the Lottery has collaborated with State Parks to introduce a themed ticket.
Oregon Soldiers honored at Salem ceremony after Horn of Africa deployment
More than 200 Oregon Army National Guard soldiers were formally welcomed home Sunday in Salem after a nearly year-long deployment to the Horn of Africa.
The troops, part of Task Force Bataan, supported security and military operations in Djibouti, Kenya and Somalia. State leaders praised the soldiers and their families for their service and sacrifice.
OHA to revisit new pool rule requiring adults accompany kids under 14
Agency to convene additional public process and ‘recommend’ rather than ‘require’ age limit this season
PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority is revisiting a new pool rule requiring children younger than 14 to be accompanied by adults at general-use public swimming pools during open swim periods.
OHA will adopt a temporary rule to require public pools post a sign with the message that OHA recommends children under 14 be accompanied by an adult. The agency will convene a public process this fall to hear input from parents, caregivers, public pool operators, lifeguards, regulators and other interested parties to inform a decision about making that rule permanent or adopting a different rule.
“After hearing from parents and caregivers of older elementary and early middle school-age children, the Food, Pool and Lodging Health and Safety Program is proposing additional discussion with the community and regulated partners to gather more input, ensure equitable access to public pools and continue to keep kids safe,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of OHA’s Environmental Public Health Section.
OHA will be notifying all pool operators and local health inspectors that the agency is initiating a temporary rule adoption to amend the signage language.
The update to the state’s Aquatic Facility Rules, which were processed through a Rule Advisory Committee (RAC), were formally adopted April 1, 2025. The current language states that “Children under the age of 14 years must have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.” The upcoming temporary rule will require a sign stating, “OHA recommends children under the age of 14 years have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.”
For the rule adopted in 2025, OHA and the RAC selected an age limit to align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), which serves as the primary national framework for aquatic safety. This limit was based on national data from CDC, which has consistently shown deaths in swimming pools are high through age 13, then drop starting at 14. That same CDC data show drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14.
Additionally, even though the RAC agreed unanimously with the proposal to require those 13 and younger be accompanied by an adult at public pools, the extensive rulemaking process included a broad range of more technical issues, such as pool equipment and chemistry.
“Given the technical nature of most of the rules, OHA typically gets participation from pool facility operators and builders, and not the community members using the pool,” Goldfarb noted. “Going forward, when CDC updates its model codes, we’ll work to identify proposed changes that need community conversations to find the right path for Oregon.”
Those interested in participating in a workgroup for this issue in the fall can email pool.safety@oha.oregon.gov to be considered. Diverse representation for the discussion is welcomed.
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